DJ, author, and music business professor Amani Roberts joins Alan and Steve to unpack how today’s students are listening to and creating music—and what that means for K–12 music educators.
In this episode, they discuss:
- Why teens prefer singles and short-form content over full albums
- Strategies for teaching deep listening using artists like Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar
- The rise of beat-making and bedroom producers, and what’s lost when theory and ensemble work fade
- Simple ways to get started with GarageBand, DAWs, and found sounds in your classroom
- How declining school music programs are reshaping the skills of working artists today
Amani also shares highlights from his book on the history of R&B groups, his life as a touring DJ, and a few personal favorites—from a memorable Tina Marie concert to a go-to Vegas restaurant.
About Amani Roberts
Amani Roberts is an award-winning music business professor, internationally renowned speaker, professional DJ, and USA Today best-selling author of “The Quiet Storm: A Historical and Cultural Analysis of the Power, Passion and Pain of R&B Groups,” who educates music professionals on making better business decisions. As a professional speaker for thousands worldwide, Amani has left an indelible mark on audiences by combining music history, innovative technology, and business education to spread knowledge on the business of music.
Throughout his illustrious career in hospitality and music, Amani has been trusted by industry giants such as Chartmetric, Berklee College of Music, and Yahoo Music. His collaborations with these organizations, along with his master’s in Music Business from Berklee College of Music (Boston), his education at Scratch Academy (Los Angeles), and his Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality Management from Howard University, underscore his credibility and expertise.
Widely regarded as an authority in his field, Amani Roberts leverages his extensive experience and education to provide the ability to see different solutions to problems that have been hidden in plain sight. His innovative approach, combined with a deep understanding of the industry, positions him as the go-to expert for music education in the ever-evolving music business landscape.
Links:
- Amani Roberts: Website
- Amani Roberts on YouTube: Amani (DJ AmRo)
- Book by Amani Roberts: The Quiet Storm: A Historical and Cultural Analysis of the Power, Passion, and Pain of R&B Groups
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