In this episode of In The Mix, host Ravenn Sanders sits down with Christo Martin Hernandez, a first-generation student at the University of Southern California currently working in the streaming department at Concord Music Publishing.

Christo shares insight into the world of music marketing and streaming, breaking down what really happens after a song is released and how music reaches audiences today. From strategy and timing to the role of playlists and algorithms, this conversation explores the often unseen work behind a song’s success.

Beyond the technical side, Christo also speaks on the importance of storytelling in music and how it shapes the way listeners connect with artists. He reflects on his journey navigating the industry through experiences with organizations like the Recording Academy, CAA, and Concord, offering perspective on building a path as a first-generation student in the music space.

This episode highlights the intersection of creativity, strategy, and impact — and what it means to help shape the sound of today’s music from behind the scenes.

🎧 In The Mix spotlights the people behind the sound, giving emerging creatives a platform to share their stories and perspectives within the music industry.

In this solo episode of In The Mix, host Ravenn Sanders steps behind the mic to share her personal journey as a producer and creative.

From discovering music to developing her skills in production, Ravenn reflects on the experiences that have shaped her path and the challenges that come with finding your own voice in a creative industry. She also shares the inspiration behind starting In The Mix and her passion for creating a platform that highlights emerging artists and creatives.

This episode is a more personal look into the mindset, growth, and motivation behind the work — centered around one key question: why?

🎧 In The Mix continues to spotlight the people behind the sound — and in this episode, the story turns inward.

In this episode of In The Mix, host Ravenn Sanders sits down with Jermaine, a jazz and R&B keyboardist, composer, and student organizer who is helping bring live music to campus.

Jermaine shares his journey as a musician, how he approaches composing across genres, and the way jazz and R&B influence his sound. The conversation dives into his creative process, improvisation, and how musicians establish their own musical identity while blending different styles.

Beyond performing and composing, Jermaine also discusses the work behind organizing live shows and why creating spaces for musicians to collaborate and perform is so important for building a strong music community.

This episode highlights the intersection of artistry, creativity, and leadership — offering insight into what it takes to grow as a musician while helping cultivate live music culture.

🎧 In The Mix spotlights emerging artists and creatives, giving them a platform to share the stories and perspectives behind the sound.

In this episode of In the Mix, host Ravenn Sanders sits down with Whitney Enenstein, a student artist manager working with rock band Skusic, to explore the work that happens behind the music.

Whitney shares her journey into artist management, what it’s really like balancing college life with managing a band, and the responsibilities that come with supporting artists both creatively and professionally. From coordinating logistics and navigating personalities to helping shape a band’s direction, this conversation highlights the often unseen role managers play in an artist’s success.

Together, they discuss collaboration, leadership, and the realities of stepping into the music industry early — offering insight for artists, aspiring managers, and anyone curious about the business side of music.

In the debut episode of In the Mix, host Ravenn Sanders sits down with EASTWEST, a duo formed at USC that’s redefining collaboration in modern popular music.

Comprised of producer, composer, and drummer Bakhari Nokuri and singer, songwriter, and producer Luc Edouard Eldridge, EASTWEST blends jazz, R&B, classical composition, and contemporary pop influences while prioritizing feel over formula. In this conversation, they unpack how their partnership began, the story behind their name, and how their distinct musical backgrounds shape their creative process.

This episode explores the art of collaboration, creative trust, and what it means to build a shared sound as emerging artists in today’s music industry.

🎧 Episode 1: The Art of Collaboration