Best Dave Kropf Podcasts (2025)

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Vacation Fails & Life Lessons 1:17:22

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1h ago1:17:22

1:17:22

In this episode, Mrs. 52 Cues joins me to talk about our recent vacation that started with noisy cabins, wrong turns, and even a dropped pizza. But somewhere between the chaos, the hang gliders, and the quiet mountain mornings, we discovered some unexpected lessons about life and what it means to be a composer. Plus, we take a listen to an Italian-…

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Prep Like a Chef: The Composer’s Mise en Place 37:10

6d ago37:10

37:10

In this episode, I show how the French cooking concept of mise en place can streamline your cue-writing process. You’ll learn five practical steps to get organized, work faster, and hit deadlines – plus, I feature my dark, ominous tension cue, "From Inside the House." Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/VB8Jy_jHLo0 Join the 52 Cues Album…

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The 4 Stages of Learning Any DAW 47:10

13d ago47:10

47:10

In this week’s episode, I compare learning a new DAW to learning a new language – and share where I’m at in my own journey toward “speaking” Ableton Live fluently. Plus, I feature a new reggaeton-meets-comedy hip hop cue. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pEN_lE0HZyo Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over …

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Chomp and Circumstance 42:21

20d ago42:21

42:21

In this episode, I’m joined by band director and composer Brandon Psenicka, whose eerie reimagining of the classic graduation march – complete with creepy vocals from his own daughter – took first place in our recent Composer Quest! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/OFSRYuqc6TI https://brandonpsenickamusic.com https://www.jwpepper.com…

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Your Sync Questions, Answered! 1:04:12

26d ago1:04:12

1:04:12

In this episode, I’m playing submissions from our latest Composer Quest – “A Whole New Light,” and then we open things up for a live Q&A. We talk stems and deliverables, SoundCloud ads, mastering workflow tips, library contracts, and even whether or not you should leave your computer on overnight. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/H9u…

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5 Failures That Kill Your Creative Output 1:02:14

1M ago1:02:14

1:02:14

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the unexpected breakdowns that threaten to bring your entire creative process to a halt. Plus, Dave features “Thoughts and Prayers,” a recent ominous tension cue written for a documentary. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/SHb9GCqSlyg Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with…

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How I Think About Light Tension 32:06

2M ago32:06

32:06

In this episode, I’m again leaning into my professor side to break down one of the most widely used styles in production music: light tension. From tasking and corporate cues to investigative and true crime textures, we’re unpacking the entire light tension spectrum. Plus, I feature one of my latest hip hop comedy cues, "Cat Gotye Tongue." Watch th…

1
Sync Terms You Should Know (But Were Afraid to Ask) 43:23

2M ago43:23

43:23

In this week's episode, you're invited into Professor Dave’s classroom as I break down the sync music terms every composer should know – but might’ve been too embarrassed to ask. From PROs to button endings, we’re clearing up the jargon. Plus, I share a no-pizzicato dramedy waltz from my latest Discovery album. Watch this episode on YouTube! https:…

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Give Your Cues an Edge That Beats AI 27:01

2M ago27:01

27:01

In this episode, I explore one simple, yet powerful way to make your cues stand out in a world where AI is getting better by the minute. Using my latest dramedy cue, “Of Mice and Mensa,” as a real-world example, I unpack a creative habit that adds realism, nuance, and authenticity – giving your music an edge the machines just can’t match. Watch thi…

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Composers, It’s Time to Leave SoundCloud 30:29

3M ago30:29

30:29

In this episode, I talk about why SoundCloud just might be too risky for production music composers. From AI policy concerns to publishers turning away cues hosted there, is it time to pull the plug? Plus, I share Optimist Prime – a dramedy cue written without a single pizzicato string. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/y7BWQ5ZiuIc Oth…

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Ask Dave Anything (LIVE)! 1:10:43

3M ago1:10:43

1:10:43

In this episode, I’m answering your questions live – from piano mixing and cue layering strategies to how many libraries you should pitch to at once. We also cover reversion clauses, B sections in dramedy and sports cues, and pitching etiquette. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/OOW6O_b9ims Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-p…

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Why Your Metadata (Probably) Sucks (with Mrs. 52 Cues) 1:05:08

3M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

In this episode, I’m joined by Mrs. 52 Cues (Shannon Kropf) to talk about the one thing composers love to avoid: metadata. We’ll unpack why it matters, where we go wrong, and how to stop sabotaging our own discoverability. Plus I feature a brand new playful dramedy cue with no pizzicato strings! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/Rqhy-n…

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Pomp and Circumstance – Composer Quest LIVE! 53:17

3M ago53:17

53:17

In this episode, we host a live listening party for our latest Composer Quest: Pomp and Circumstance, where 52 Cues community members were challenged to reimagine the classic graduation march in any genre they wanted – from orchestral to ska, cinematic trailer to chipmunk glitchcore. Vote for your favorites at https://52cues.com/vote! Watch this ep…

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Even More Inconvenient Truths About Production Music 44:35

4M ago44:35

44:35

From rejection to relationships, I unpack five more hard truths every production music composer needs to hear, but probably hasn’t. Plus I feature a recent Indian-infused world hip-hop cue! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/ef1lMcXViHo Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discu…

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The Four "C's" of Success 48:49

4M ago48:49

48:49

In this episode, I break down the Four C’s of Success – a practical framework to help composers stay clear, creative, and on track from start to finish. Plus I feature a new investigation tension cue and give my thoughts on a psychedelic rock cue from 52 Cues member, Fraser Macdermid. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/9tmb-sy3Qps Join…

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These 5 Small Choices Can Mean Huge Growth 49:56

4M ago49:56

49:56

In this episode, I’m sharing five small daily choices, plus a bonus one, that can quietly shape your growth and long-term success as a production music composer. Plus I feature one of my cues that I KNOW you've heard before, and I give my thoughts on a soft tension cue from 52 Cues member, keschkau. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/M…

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An Editor Tells Why Great Cues Get Cut! (with Biagio Messina)! 1:46:03

4M ago1:46:03

1:46:03

In this episode, veteran TV producer and editor Biagio Messina joins me to talk about how cues actually get used in real-world productions – and what composers can do to make their music easier to work with. Plus I feature a new uplifting corporate rock cue and give my thoughts on a TV Drama cue from 52 Cues member, James Oakden. Watch this episode…

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These Climbers Made the Summit of Expedition 52! 1:21:37

4M ago1:21:37

1:21:37

In this episode, I’m joined by composers who completed the 2024 Expedition 52 composer quest – a year-long challenge to write one cue and give one piece of feedback every single week. We talk about what they learned, how they stayed motivated, and how consistency helped them grow! Plus, I’m sharing a new positive ambient drone cue and I'm reviewing…

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They Went From Returns to Real Placements (with Michael Reschke)! 1:16:40

5M ago1:16:40

1:16:40

Michael and Yuka Reschke were doing everything right… but still felt stuck. In this episode, we talk about what changed, how they found their lane, and how they pushed through when quitting seemed easier. Plus, I’m sharing a new epic rock collaboration and I'm reviewing an emotional cinematic cue from 52 Cues member, Simon Armitage. Watch this epis…

1
This Dramedy Cue Gets Placed Over and Over! 58:44

5M ago58:44

58:44

In this episode, I’m breaking down one of my most placed cues to show what makes a great dramedy cue – and why this quirky genre continues to deliver consistent placements. Plus, I’m sharing a new introspective piano cue and reviewing a modern electro funk cue from 52 Cues neighbor, Corey Dee! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/MmAFNkR…

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Stop Overthinking Chords with This Simple Tool! 1:07:32

5M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

Struggling with chord choices or feeling overwhelmed by music theory? I’m sitting down with Chordii co-founder Ian McClellan to talk about how this simple tool can help take the guesswork out of harmony. Plus, I’m sharing a new intrigue with hope cue and reviewing a pulsing tension cue from 52 Cues Family member Daniel Rose. Watch this episode on Y…

1
Can Samples Save This Hip-Hop Cue? 49:57

6M ago49:57

49:57

Sometimes a cue just needs a little extra something, so in this episode, I’m jumping into the DAW, opening up Splice and Serato Sample, and showing my real-time process for using loops, one-shots, and sample chopping to enhance a hip-hop cue. Plus, I feature my last Modern Comedy cue and I share my thoughts on a reflective piano cue from 52 Cues Fa…

1
7 Keys to Great Collaborations 1:20:26

6M ago1:20:26

1:20:26

Teaming up with other composers not only lightens the workload, it pushes you creatively and can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t have on your own. But collaboration only works when it’s done right, so today we’re talking about seven keys to successful co-writing and how to make sure your next collab is a win-win. Plus, we listen to another…

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Reworking, Repurposing, and Reinventing Your Cues with SCAMPER 1:18:47

6M ago1:18:47

1:18:47

Feeling like all your cues are starting to sound the same? In this episode, we’re talking about the SCAMPER model, a simple but powerful creativity tool that can help you rethink, reshape, and repurpose your music so you can work smarter and keep your ideas fresh. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an epic trailer cue by 52 Cues Friend David Gate…

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Do Sync Composers Need Branding? (with Andy Gesner) 1:05:53

6M ago1:05:53

1:05:53

In this week's episode, I’m joined by Andy Gesner of HIP Video Promo to talk about why personal branding is becoming harder to ignore – and how production music composers can build a presence without feeling like they have to become content creators. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an electronic disco/funk cue by 52 Cues Friend Darko Malcevic …

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Production Music Q&A – LIVE! 1:14:47

7M ago1:14:47

1:14:47

In this week's episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, we're doing a live Ask Me Anything session! I answer questions about sync licensing, production, and composition! We talk about the US Copyright Office's AI ruling, the importance of adding human elements to cues, and what genres are in demand. I also share my approach to mastering stems, how much you …

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The State of AI in 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 51:02

7M ago51:02

51:02

In this week's episode, I’m welcoming back Timothy Andrew Edwards to talk about how AI is already affecting gigs, contracts, and the production music industry – and what composers need to do to protect their careers. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on a cinematic tension cue by 52 Cues Friend Russ Westfield and featuring a new modern comedy cue I…

1
How to Stay Grounded When Sync Feels Overwhelming 34:24

7M ago34:24

34:24

Today we’re talking all about how the ancient philosophy of stoicism can help production music composers stay grounded, focused, and resilient in the unpredictable world of sync licensing. Plus, I share my thoughts on a dark fantasy cue written by OG 52 Cues member, Enrico Caporale and feature an intrigue with hope cue of my own. Watch this episode…

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Sync Trends for 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 1:26:30

7M ago1:26:30

1:26:30

This week, I’m joined by production music heavyweight, Timothy Andrew Edwards ,to talk about the trends shaping 2025 – from the growing demand for vocal cues to why tension music still reigns supreme and how composers can stay ahead of the game. Plus, I share my own ominous crime tension cue, “Read Between the Crimes,” and give feedback on a neocla…

1
How To Work Smarter, Not Harder 43:22

8M ago43:22

43:22

In this episode, I’m sharing six practical strategies to help you streamline your workflow, save time, and stay creative – from reusing sounds and organizing your library to simplifying your mix and using reference cues for structure. Plus, I review Timothy Ackerman’s cyberpunk cue, "Circuit Breaker!" Do you want to have your cue reviewed on the po…

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Looking Back on 2024 and What's Ahead for 2025 40:41

8M ago40:41

40:41

On this final episode of the year, I’m reflecting on 2024 – the milestones, lessons learned, and highlights from both my personal journey and the 52 Cues community. Plus, I’ll share a sneak peek into what’s coming in 2025 and the goals I’m setting for the year ahead! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/nlpIut1QVlY Join the 52 Cues Album…

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The 3 Keys to a Long (and Happy!) Career 23:08

8M ago23:08

23:08

Feeling stuck on what you should be writing? This week, I’m unpacking three keys to building a sustainable and fulfilling career in production music. Plus, I’ll break down my latest NuDisco-inspired cue, Funk Salad Annie! What this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/8Wv4nxo1v-w Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6…

1
Why Does it Take So Long to Get Paid? 25:19

8M ago25:19

25:19

From concept to cash, I’m breaking down the complete timeline of a production music cue so you’ll know exactly what to expect on your path to those sweet royalty checks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/vVyK-ZvJ20s Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, arti…

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What Defines the "Mood" in a Cue? 32:31

9M ago32:31

32:31

In today's episode, Dave's talks about mood, and he unpacks how he communicates emotions in his cues by shifting three primary musical elements. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/fVSKlQLLI40 Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which…

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It's Episode 200! What Have I Learned? 49:43

9M ago49:43

49:43

In this epic 200th episode, Dave shares lessons learned from four years of the 52 Cues Podcast, working towards sustainability, growth, and embracing imperfection. Watch this on YouTube https://youtu.be/puqtb1FP0P0 Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resou…

1
Understanding Ominous Tension 41:34

9M ago41:34

41:34

In this episode, we revisit the art of crafting ominous tension cues as Dave explores the harmonic and rhythmic techniques behind these cues, emphasizing drone-based harmony, slow-moving melodies, and evolving layers. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_pCP9_MPm7M Friends and Family, join us for the Dramedy Writing Workshop! https://my.…

1
Is Originality Overrated? 49:26

9M ago49:26

49:26

In this episode, Dave questions whether originality is overrated in production music, suggesting that unique expression matters more than being entirely original. He discusses techniques like modeling and referencing to meet industry expectations while staying creatively fulfilled. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/aM5E-wY0rq8 Join th…

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How to Use Transition SFX 52:01

10M ago52:01

52:01

In this episode, Dave breaks down the art of using SFX like booms, risers, and sweeps to enhance transitions in a cue, demonstrating his approach live on a recent hip-hop track. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/JkeKZQazOLI Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion thread…

1
Collaboration is King (with Dale Grisa) 1:12:13

10M ago1:12:13

1:12:13

In this episode, Dave welcomes Detroit-based pianist and composer Dale Grisa about his journey from performing thousands of gigs to creating production music and collaborating with top musicians! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/v4SutVFN0Ag https://www.dalegrisa.com Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over …

1
Ask Me Anything! 1:12:00

10M ago1:12:00

1:12:00

It's time for another 52 Cues live Q&A! In this episode, Dave Kropf tackles questions from the community, including whether it’s safe to upload tracks to SoundCloud if they’re already on Spotify, how many cues you need for a sustainable income, and the best way to approach bigger libraries. Plus, thoughts on using tempo changes in cues and the impo…

1
Conferences, Colons, and Storms (Oh My!) 1:15:21

10M ago1:15:21

1:15:21

In today's very special episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave welcomes back Mrs. 52 Cues herself, Shannon Kropf, for a discussion about the whirlwind of the past few weeks. No cues, no production music topics this week – just conferences, colonoscopies, and (2!) hurricanes! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/72ZdCTpx0Yo 00:00 - Introduc…

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One on One with Jason Graves 1:37:45

11M ago1:37:45

1:37:45

In this episode, Dave chats with BAFTA-winning composer Jason Graves, known for his work on blockbuster games like Dead Space, Tomb Raider, and Call of Duty: Warzone. They reminisce about their college days and explore Jason's journey from percussionist to leading industry composer, discussing his creative process and the evolution of game music! M…

1
Writing Epic Hip-Hop for Sports 57:30

11M ago57:30

57:30

In this episode, Dave breaks down his epic hip-hop sports broadcasting cue, "All Up In This," revealing how to create tracks that resonate across various sports platforms. He also shares his eventful week—from preparing for the upcoming Production Music Conference to handling a last-minute request from CBS that didn't go as planned. Stay tuned unti…

1
Christmas In July Winners! 1:06:28

11M ago1:06:28

1:06:28

In this episode, Dave sits down with the winners of the Christmas in July Composer Quest: Jenny Goodspeed, Simon Tong, and Ralph Oleski. They discuss their award-winning tracks, their journeys into the world of production music, and how feedback and community have shaped their creative processes. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/jFwT4…

1
Cue Review – LIVE! 2:19:12

12M ago2:19:12

2:19:12

In this special live podcast episode, Dave reviews cues written by the 52 Cues Community! Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-o…

1
How To Use Story Beats to Structure Trailer Cues 59:29

12M ago59:29

59:29

In this episode, Dave explores the fascinating connection between storytelling and music structure, particularly in trailer cues, and he breaks down how narrative beats, like those found in novels or movies, can apply to the form and structure of production music. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/RVx-NaQLazM Save The Cat! by Blake Sn…

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What Makes a "Good" Cue? 56:15

12M ago56:15

56:15

In this episode, Dave unpacks the essential elements that make a cue truly stand out in the competitive world of production music. He explores the often-overlooked qualities that can elevate one cue above another and the fundamental components that every professional cue must have. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_y3L1FBkCj4 Join the…

1
How Do I Stay So Positive? 49:34

1y ago49:34

49:34

In this episode, Dave shares four key strategies he relies on to maintain a positive mindset, even when the music industry throws its toughest challenges his way. He explores practical approaches to staying resilient, from navigating rejection to pushing through setbacks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/UPxRlnp6Urg The War of Art by…

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Christmas In July Composer Quest Live! 1:52:19

1y ago1:52:19

1:52:19

In this episode, we host a special live voting session for the Christmas in July Composer Quest, where participants' cues are showcased across three categories: Classic Christmas Magic, High-Energy Holiday, and Acoustic Christmas. Join us as we listen to the submissions, and the community votes on their favorites, with winners receiving exciting pr…

1
How PROs Support Composers (with Erin Collins, SESAC) 1:07:52

1y ago1:07:52

1:07:52

In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, Dave welcomes Erin Collins, Senior Vice President of TV/Film and Creative Services for SESAC, to discuss her journey from high school musician to senior executive. They explore the evolving music industry, including streaming, AI, and SESAC's initiatives to support underrepresented composers. Watch this episo…