Dr Karlyn King.

What were you doing before you came to Spirit Studios?

Before joining Spirit Studios, I spent nine years teaching Music Business at NYU and other local universities while leading industry research projects for Discogs in Los Angeles and providing commentary for BBC and Sky News.

Alongside my teaching, I am building my research and consultancy work across the US and UK.

How did you get into what you teach?

I got into teaching because I wanted to bridge the gap between research and the real music industry.

My background is in music psychology and music business, and after completing my PhD, I realised I loved helping students apply ideas to real-world careers. Since then, I’ve combined teaching with industry research and consultancy, working with organisations such as Discogs while staying closely connected to the ever-changing music business.

Any areas of special interest?

My main areas of interest are music marketing, audience behaviour, artist branding, fan culture and the psychology of music.

I’m particularly interested in how technology is changing the way we discover, consume and value music, from streaming platforms to vinyl collecting.

I also enjoy researching diversity and inclusion in the music industry and helping students understand how data and audience insights can support successful creative careers.

What’s your proudest career achievement?

Completing my PhD is definitely my proudest career achievement, especially as the first person in my family to attend university.

It was an incredibly rewarding journey that combined my passion for music, psychology and research, and it has opened doors to opportunities in teaching, industry consultancy and broadcasting. More than anything, it reminds me that your background doesn’t define your future, and I hope that encourages my students to aim high too.

What do you get up to outside of teaching?

Outside of teaching, I love exploring record stores, collecting vinyl, attending live music events and staying up to date with what’s happening across the music industry.

I also enjoy traveling, discovering new coffee spots and spending time in my spiritual home, Los Angeles, where I’m continuing to build connections within the music community.

Tell us something people may not know about you?

I’ve appeared on BBC News talking about everything from vinyl records and Taylor Swift to the future of the music industry. It’s always a bit surreal seeing yourself on TV discussing your favourite subject!

Are there any career credits or notable people you may have worked with?

Throughout my career, I’ve worked with organisations including NYU, BIMM University and Discogs, and have collaborated with companies such as Sony Music, Abbey Road Studios and Universal Music Group through teaching, research and industry events. 

What’s your favourite album/artist? and why?

It changes all the time, but I’m always drawn to artists who continually reinvent themselves. David Bowie is a favourite because of his creativity, willingness to take risks and lasting influence on music, culture and branding.

What’s the best gig you’ve ever been to?

The Prodigy at Reading Festival. The atmosphere was absolutely electric from start to finish. It was one of those performances where the energy of the crowd matched the intensity on stage, and you could feel thousands of people completely immersed in the music. It’s a gig that’s stayed with me ever since and reminds me just how powerful live music can be.

What’s your musical guilty pleasure?

Rebecca Black – Friday!

If you have anything released online, where can we find it?

Check out my website at – karlynking.com

Want to learn from Karlyn?

Dr Karlyn King is a tutor at Spirit Studios that teaches on our Music Business and Events Management course.