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Tag: Shubham Singhal

  • “National Startup Day 2024 signifies a game-changer for India’s digital journey”: Dot Media Base

    “National Startup Day 2024 signifies a game-changer for India’s digital journey”: Dot Media Base

    Mumbai: Dot Media Base is a one-of-a-kind content-first talent marketing agency in India. Originating as a humble startup during the lockdown in Kanpur, it has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem boasting over 200 creators, 250+ distinctive clients including music labels, OTT platforms, FMCG, Beauty, and Fintech brands., 1000+ digital campaigns, a roster of 30 celebrities, and a dedicated team of 90+ professionals. With  offices in Mumbai and Kanpur, the enterprise has also established an expansive modern production studio spanning 1,800 sq. ft

    Shubham Singhal, Vaibhav Pathak, and Om Singh have nurtured successful IPs like TGB Troop, Dot Talents, Dot Studios, Dot Public Relations, and FinTroop. Their approach includes digital tools, artistic prowess, and innovative ideas to make engaging content and captivating visuals. They’re working towards making a dynamic digital realm that’s not just exhilarating but also addresses creators’ challenges.

    Additionally, India celebrates National Startup Day today. This annual event serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem for startups, providing them with the necessary resources and encouragement to flourish.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with the founders Singhal, Pathak and Singh where they gave detailed explanations regarding their agency, also what preparations they are planning  this day and how they are looking forward to curb challenges and many more…

    Edited excerpts

    On the journey since the inception of the agency

    Since the inception of our agency, the journey has been nothing short of a remarkable adventure. Our story began during the challenging times of the lockdown, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the face of the global challenge, we found  an incredible opportunity in the digital space, setting ourselves apart in a crowded industry. Relocating from Kanpur to Mumbai marked the start of our hustle.

    Starting with a team of only 8 members, we have grown rapidly and now boast a team of over 70 dedicated individuals. Throughout our expansion, we have not only created a successful agency, but we have also cultivated a culture that values the well-being and growth of our team. Our commitment goes beyond just professional partnerships – we care for our team members, influencers and collaborators not just professionally but also personally. As we look back at our journey, we realise that it’s not just about reaching milestones and hitting targets, but more importantly, it’s about growing into a community that thrives on mutual support, resilience, and a shared passion for what we do.

    On specific preparations that Dot Media Base is making for Startup Day

    As we gear up for Startup Day on January 16th, Dot Media Base is not just preparing for a single day but sparking a year-long transformation. Our recent preparations involve a shift in how we work. We’re focusing on our team’s passions, letting them choose roles that excite them rather than sticking to predefined positions.

    Our emphasis is on making this year not just about hitting goals but about team unity, collaboration, and continuous learning. Startup Day is not just a celebration but a platform for our team to come together, share success stories, and dive into the startup culture.

    We’ve been restructuring, encouraging active participation, and fostering an environment where every team member plays a vital role. Dot Media Base is not just a company; it’s a joint effort. Startup Day is our way of creating a space for collaboration, connection, and content creation that reflects our dedication to excellence. We are ready for a year of innovation, growth, and shared success!

    On the agency’s active  engage with the startup ecosystem, and benefits derived from such involvement

    We’re deeply plugged into the buzzing startup landscape, actively diving into events that spark knowledge and connections. Our team is out there, attending everything from conferences to meet-ups, soaking in insights and building relationships. These events aren’t just about business; they’re about learning and sharing with industry folks.

    Networking is our game. We’re not just talking about partnerships; we’re talking about creating a community that fosters innovation. We learn from the best. Our commitment extends to mentorship programs, ensuring our team grows alongside industry leaders.

    Every event is a goldmine of insights, not just from our peers but from everyone in the game. We, as founders, make sure our team is always hungry for learning, active in the networking game. It’s not just about growing in our bubble; it’s about making friends and allies in every corner. We’re always ready, always excited, seeking new connections and opportunities for collective success.

    On any collaborations with other startups that you find particularly impactful

    At Dot Media, collaboration isn’t just about transactions; it’s about shared values and mutual growth. Our partnership with WeDo Marketing, initiated when both our ventures were budding a few years ago, is a testament to this philosophy. We value collaborations that transcend the business realm and foster genuine friendships.

    WeDo Marketing, specialising in impactful brand work, especially in fashion, lifestyle, and FMCG, has played a pivotal role in our journey. They’ve pushed us to excel in influencer management and campaign ideas, sparking innovation.

    For us, collaboration is not merely about achieving success individually; it’s about lifting each other to new heights. Rooted in mutual respect, our partnership extends beyond professional deals to create an environment where collective growth thrives. This belief defines our approach to collaborations—a commitment to journeys that are not bound by limits but driven by shared aspirations and limitless possibilities.

    On challenges that India need to overcome in the startup ecosystem

    National Startup Day 2024 signifies a game-changer for India’s digital journey. Amidst the startup boom, a critical challenge revolves around job creation. While startups are vital for innovation, connecting them with individuals lacking educational access poses a hurdle. To truly thrive as the world’s largest startup ecosystem, we must address this literacy gap, ensuring everyone has a fair shot.

    It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about empowering our workforce. As we pioneer the global startup scenario, the focus is on inclusivity and skill-building. We’re not just growing startups; we’re nurturing talents ready for the dynamic global stage. Our vision is a transformed India, where every aspiring mind, irrespective of background, contributes uniquely. In this digital evolution, let’s not just make history; let’s make opportunities, crafting a nation known not only for startup success but for offering meaningful work to every dreamer ready to shape their collective future. Our commitment is unwavering – driving a transformation that leaves no one behind.

    On the long-term vision and mission of Dot Media Base, and its evolution since the company’s founding

    At Dot Media Base, our big picture is about being the all-in-one destination for everything in the market. We’re dreaming of a place where we handle it all – from talent management to  brand collaborations to creating blockbuster content and bringing to the bigger screen. Picture this: a hub where brands and creators find all their solutions under one roof, whether it’s casting stars or executing killer marketing strategies. We want to cover all the bases, working with creators and brands across the spectrum.

    Since day one, our journey has been a ride of change and growth. It’s not just about running a company; it’s about growing as a tight-knit team. Our mission? To create that one campaign that shakes up how people see marketing, breaking the norm. We’re on a mission to build a creative space where ideas flow, campaigns connect, and success knows no limits. Together, we’re not just evolving; we’re setting new standards, making waves, and turning our vision into a reality. That’s the Dot Media Base journey – where every step is a leap toward something bigger and bolder.

  • Influencer ethics and transparency: A look at industry standards and best practices

    Influencer ethics and transparency: A look at industry standards and best practices

    Mumbai: There is no doubt that the trend of Influencer Marketing has skyrocketed, with social media feeds bombarded with influencer and business collaborations. While this concept is certainly not a new one, over the recent years, the immense popularity of this new age community termed ‘Influencers’ has been a game changer in the marketing landscape. This dynamic industry which was previously valued at $16.4 billion, continues to grow further with a whopping revenue forecast of $143.10 billion in 2030.    

    Emerging as the most preferred business strategy to do both- forge ephemeral connections with customers and boost sales, Influencer Marketing has left no stone unturned. Nevertheless, it’s pivotal to delve into the ascent of it, since this gigantic community is responsibly becoming the direct communication between brands and audience. Thus, a comprehensive system that has specific guidelines and ethical practices for both influencers and businesses, can go a long way in fostering a transparent community.

    Choosing the Right Brands

    Influencer-Brand partnerships from the onset itself, need to go beyond the realms of monetary considerations. Diligent efforts need to be made by both brands and influencers to cultivate a relationship that prioritises positive collaborations and respectful communication, in order to showcase the audiences an absolute genuinity and authenticity. Chasing money can never bring any good, which is why Influencers need to meticulously select and partner only with brands that share similar values, since their community relies on their words and recommendations before making purchases.

    Open Communication from Both Ends

    Influencer Marketing clutches onto the trust between brands, influencers and their followers. In order to preserve and cultivate this trust, it’s essential for them to establish a transparent and open communication channel that clearly outlines the expectations and objectives of both parties. Transparency is an indispensable asset when it comes to fostering relationships between brands and influencers, as it is the lifeforce sustaining trust and credibility as well as instrumental in averting customer confusion and misinterpretations.

    Learning where to Stop

    It’s no secret that there is a limit to everything in life and going beyond that boundary only brings forth repercussions and complexities, which is applicable even for Influencer Marketing. The world of Influencer marketing is characterised by the bond that influencers share with the audience, which is why it’s crucial for Influencers to remember that their popularity is solely based on the support and love of their audience, which they have achieved by being authentic and real. Thus, it’s vital for Influencers to set limits in Influencer-Brand collaborations and never traverse through that murky boundary.

    Relatable Integration Instead of Ads

    The key element that has made Influencer marketing a reliable source of information over traditional advertising is its seamless ability to integrate within the content, making it all the more relevant and manifold its impact. Instead of just running after quantity over quality, Influencers need to advocate for genuine integration of products or services into the content, showcasing to the audience that it is more than merely promotional advertising. For instance, Dunkin Donuts collaboration with Charlie Damelio has been a superhit because long before Charlie’s fame, she had always advocated Dunkin, making the recent partnership more relatable and genuine.    

    Educating the Audience  

    Influencers possess the ability to sway the purchasing decisions of their followers, generating noteworthy traffic and sales for the brand. However, as an Influencer it is your ethical responsibility to not misuse the trust and power that your audience has bestowed you with, instead, be real and educate your audience about the why, basically why they should invest in a particular product or service. Influencer Marketing isn’t merely about promoting products, but in reality, it’s also about delivering valuable information through content that is informative.

    Being Responsible and Owning up

    Beyond fostering aspirational lifestyles, it is significant for Influencers to discuss the accountability of the content that they have shared. In certain cases, some endorsements can raise audience distrust and scepticism, which is why it’s crucial for Influencers to mitigate such concerns and ambiguity by clearly stating the nature of such endorsements. Given that more than half of the world’s population religiously follows Influencer recommendations, it is the moral responsibility of Influencers to take accountability for their mistakes and address any issues or controversies.

    Final Thoughts

    There is an absolute certainty that Influencer Marketing needs to be marked and shaped by ethical and transparent practices to cultivate an authentic relationship between brands and Influencers. With a strong grasp on the foundation of their journey, Influencers need to prioritise choosing the right brands, creating open communication channels, crafting content that is educational as well as peppered with sparks of creativity and most importantly imposing restrictions with something that doesn’t align with their individuality.

    The author of this article is by Dot Media CEO & co-founder Shubham Singhal.

  • Beyond the notes: Navigating the crossroads of AI and artistry in music: Part 2

    Beyond the notes: Navigating the crossroads of AI and artistry in music: Part 2

    Mumbai: As technology continues to evolve with each passing day, artificial intelligence appears to gain a strong and steady foothold in the very existence of human beings. The inescapable integration of AI is becoming more palpable, shaping a formidable future that blurs the lines between the artificial and the human.

    Soon, AI’s omnipresence threatens to permeate every industry, from the harmonies of music to the intricacies of architecture. In this era of rapid transformation, the ascent of artificial intelligence is not merely a paradigm shift; it is an indomitable force reshaping the narrative of our collective tomorrow.

    Through conversations with industry experts, and key figures, we have gleaned insights into their perspective on AI causing a potential threat to the music industry and artists’ creative processes with the rising use of AI tools to make dubbed versions of a song in different artists or people’s voices.

    The Hype Capital founder Sachin Shah

    I do not perceive AI as a direct threat to the music industry or the creative processes of artists. This is primarily because AI is still in its early stages, and larger corporations and platforms have taken appropriate measures to prevent its misuse. One of the examples of this is YouTube, which disclosed on their blog on 14th November, “We’ll require creators to disclose when they’ve created altered or synthetic content that is realistic, including using AI tools.” I anticipate that more companies will follow this trend to ensure a safer space and prevent the abuse of AI technology.

    Furthermore, artists can leverage AI to streamline their musical journey and processes, making use of the available tools to achieve better results. Although this may be easier said than done, it is always good to streamline things and use the available resources to make our lives better.

    Serial entrepreneur, tech visionary & advisor Vinod K Singh

    The rapid advancement of AI tools has opened up a new frontier in music production, enabling the creation of dubbed versions of songs in different voices. While this technology holds immense potential for creative expression, it also raises concerns about its potential impact on the music industry and the artistic process.

    On one hand, AI-generated dubs could threaten artists’ control over their work and deprive them of rightful royalties. The ability to effortlessly create unauthorized versions of songs could potentially diminish the value of original recordings and undermine artists’ financial stability.

    However, AI can also be harnessed as a powerful tool for musical exploration and innovation. By leveraging AI’s ability to analyze and mimic human vocal patterns, artists can expand their creative horizons and experiment with new sonic possibilities.To mitigate potential threats and maximize the benefits of AI in music creation, clear guidelines and ethical frameworks need to be established. This will ensure that artists’ rights are protected while encouraging the responsible and innovative use of AI in music production. By striking a balance between addressing concerns and embracing opportunities, we can foster a future where AI serves as a catalyst for artistic growth and creative expression.

    Leadzen.ai co-founder and CEO Sonakshi Pratap

    I believe it’s crucial to address the potential impacts of AI on the music industry, particularly regarding the creation of dubbed versions of songs in various artists’ voices. While AI offers incredible opportunities for innovation and accessibility in music, it also poses significant challenges to the integrity and authenticity of the artistic process.

    AI’s ability to replicate voices and styles can lead to a dilution of the unique qualities that individual artists bring to their work. This technology, if unchecked, risks turning unique artistic expressions into commodities that can be easily replicated and distributed, undermining the value of original creations. Moreover, there’s a profound ethical consideration regarding consent and rights. Artists’ voices and styles are deeply personal and often a result of years of hard work and personal development. Using AI to replicate these without consent or proper attribution can be seen as a form of artistic identity theft.

    However, it is important to recognize that AI is a tool, and like any other tool, its impact depends on how it is used. If employed responsibly, AI can enhance the creative process, opening new avenues for artists to explore and collaborate. It is essential for the industry to establish clear ethical guidelines and legal frameworks to ensure that AI is used to support artists rather than undermine them. This way, we can embrace the benefits of AI while protecting the heart and soul of musical creativity.

    Langoor CEO Venugopal Ganganna

    The way we collaborate and create music has changed. AI has not only democratised songwriting but is also being used by marketing agencies like ours to create stock music for video content. One disruptive way to work with AI is to use it as a music co-pilot to create all the backing instrumentals. Think of it as magically conjuring an extra band member. Google recently announced a new software that creates entire backing tracks for a melody line ingested into the LLM. So while AI presently does a functional job (at best) of replicating popular recording artists’ music (in its entirety), it doesn’t seem capable of putting them out of business — yet.

    Dot Media co-founder & CEO Shubham Singhal

    At Dot Media, we recognize the evolving landscape of the music industry with the increasing use of AI for creating dubbed versions. While AI tools offer exciting avenues, the potential threat lies in the delicate balance between innovation and the preservation of artists’ originality. We must ensure that the essence of a musician’s unique creative process remains intact amid technological advancements. Dot Media is committed to empowering artists through AI, emphasizing its role as a collaborator rather than a substitute. By prioritizing artists’ originality, we navigate the evolving landscape responsibly, fostering a future where technology augments, not hinders, the authenticity of musical expression.

    Tagglabs founder Hariom Seth

    During the ICC World Cup 2023, our use of AI revolutionized Royal Stag’s advertising strategy. We introduced personalized videos featuring Rohit Sharma addressing fans by name, a groundbreaking move that eliminated the need for repetitive recordings. This showcased the efficiency AI brought to the campaign, not only elevating fan engagement but also streamlining production and saving valuable time and resources.

    On a broader scale, instances like the proliferation of fake Drake videos highlight the urgent need for new legislation regarding AI-generated content. Such exploitation, where creators use the voice of artists like Drake to profit, emphasizes the necessity to protect original artists from financial harm. It is imperative to establish stringent measures and regulations to penalize those who breach these boundaries.

    Simultaneously, there’s a crucial need to differentiate between content that entirely replicates an artist and AI-generated content that draws inspiration from human work while introducing new elements. Striking this balance in regulation ensures the protection of creators and fosters a landscape where innovation thrives within ethical boundaries. By categorizing AI-generated content and implementing measures against misuse, we create a framework that not only safeguards artists’ interests but also encourages responsible and creative use of AI technology in the evolving landscape of content creation.

    Entropik founder & CEO Ranjan Kumar

    Deepfake technology utilizes a machine learning mechanism called the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to fabricate deceptive images and videos. In light of the growing threat posed by deepfake videos, there should be a concerted effort to develop and deploy effective deepfake detection technologies and establish robust regulations to mitigate the risks associated with deepfake technology. AI-manipulated media can be difficult to detect manually. Therefore, tech companies like Microsoft and Intel have introduced deepfake detection tools such as Video Authenticator, FakeCatcher, etc., and more global companies are now following suit by introducing user-friendly detection tools. There is a need for global cooperation on AI. Governments must enact stringent laws and run mass public awareness campaigns to educate people about how to protect their social media privacy and identify such content. AI regulation can be used to mitigate the creation of unlawful and non-consensual deepfakes and ensure accountability in their creation and distribution.

    TreadBinary Technologies Pvt Ltd director Yuvraj Shidhaye

    In the evolving landscape of the music industry, the rising use of AI tools poses a dual-edged sword. On one side, the potential threat to the uniqueness that defines each artist is palpable, as AI-generated voices and 3D simulations run the risk of homogenizing the creative landscape. The very essence that artists capitalize on for their careers—individuality—stands at the crossroads of technological advancement. If AI is not moderated correctly, it can become an imposter, posing a significant risk to the authenticity artists bring to their craft.

    However, in a parallel narrative, where VFX and animation elevate the viewer experience, the strategic use of AI, with permission from the artist, has the power to transcend human capabilities. Imagine a music concert featuring not only living artists but also those who have passed, such as Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley. The experience offered transcends imagination.

    Much like a hammer in the hands of a skilled worker can create furniture or tools, while in the hands of a psychopath, it can be destructive, AI, when used wisely, can either be a creative force or a destructive influence. The key lies in striking a balance and ensuring that AI serves as a tool for innovation, complementing artists rather than overshadowing the unique voices that make the music industry vibrant.

    VijayBhoomi University dean of school, faculty – sound engineering Nilesh Thomas

    From my perspective, I maintain the perspective that artificial intelligence does not present substantial threats to professions that rely heavily on creativity. What AI is potentially doing at the moment is in some ways democratizing music creation by making it more accessible to a wider range of people. Those who may not have traditional musical training can use AI to experiment and express their ideas to quickly generate original music for various purposes like videos.

    Complete reliance on AI to create original music (or any form of art) will potentially lead to an erosion of human-centric artistic identity, which is an important factor in how we appreciate and relate to art. If AI tools become too involved in the creative process, the unique human touch, emotions, and personal experiences that artists bring to their work may be diminished. This could affect the emotional resonance and authenticity of the music. For example, would you rather go to a concert by a machine or Arijit Singh, for a perfect weekend evening with your loved one?

    On the other hand, AI tools can be used to greatly augment and enhance the creative process. Artists can leverage AI to explore new sounds, generate unique compositions, or aid in the production process. This could lead to the creation of innovative and groundbreaking music. AI can significantly speed up the production process, helping artists experiment with different versions of their work more efficiently. This can free up time for artists to focus on the more nuanced aspects of their craft.

    RV University, professor and dean, School of Film, Media and Creative Arts, Prof. (Dr.) Piyush Roy.

    Music or any other creative output that has stood the test of time, or for it to withstand trends, the feeling has to be created among the audience. Has the best of CGI been able to replace the impact of shooting an epic in a literary epic scale, like Mughal-e-Azam, Gandhi, or Lagaan with real people? Will it work if the AI dubs in any voice? No, it has to be in the voice of a recognised artist, and that recognition happens for the achievement, vocal nuance, and uniqueness in rendition, brought about by that person’s signature. Such experimentation is no different from that of copying a signature, but the original is always original, and imitation will always remain so. AI creativity for sure will get mediocrity a competition, but true talent need not bother or fear, because their newness comes from an originality exclusive only to the human experience, ingenuity and mettle.

    Red FM and Magic FM COO & director Nisha Narayanan

    In the era of AI thrusting its way into the music scene, the potential ramifications for the industry and artists demand a strategic and nuanced perspective. At Red FM, we are not turning a blind eye to the efficiency gains that AI brings to the music-producing industry. However, in our own way, we are navigating the AI maze by protecting the value of human creativity. Our effort lies in balancing technological advancements with the human element to make the most out of musical artistry.

    We just believe that AI needs to be the backup dancer and not the lead singer stealing the spotlight from humans. As we move forward, collaboration is the name of the game. Be it with fellow partners, industries, or now with machines. We will continue all our efforts in empowering artists as our innovative resources meanwhile preserving the soul of music amidst technological progress.