2 Minutes With … Rachel Vogel, Manager of Global Digital Accounts at Warner Music Group
Rachel is a music industry professional whose work spans digital marketing, strategy and artist development across major labels and entrepreneurial ventures. She is currently the manager of global digital accounts at Warner Music Group, spearheading strategic partnerships with platforms such as TikTok. Rachel is also a podcast host and creator.
We spent two minutes with Rachel to learn more about her background, her creative inspirations and recent work she's admired.
Rachel, tell us …
Where you grew up, and where you live now.
I was born and raised in New Jersey, spent time living in New York City, and I currently live in Los Angeles.
Your earliest musical memory.
Being in the car with my dad on Sunday mornings. I was 5 years old and there was a radio program called "Breakfast With the Beatles." Not only was I listening to their music, but my dad would narrate historical perspectives on each song.
Your favorite bands/musicians today.
Ariana Grande, Dua Lipa, Kacey Musgraves, Ellie Goulding, Tate McRae … I'm clearly here for the pop girls! That said, newer artists I'm excited about are Humble the Great and INJI.
A recent project you're proud of.
The recent expansion of the 3Q podcast to include 3Q the Artists. My goal was to to go beyond the typical interview and provide a platform for artists while delivering an impactful experience for industry creatives, executives and fans.
One thing about how the music world is evolving that you're excited about.
As someone who fell in love with artist discovery, it's exciting to witness aspiring musicians gain access to tools and resources that in the past were only for artists connected to major labels. This has led to a more diverse and inclusive landscape. Artists from all backgrounds and genres are now able to express themselves, connect with fans directly, make music that surpasses traditional genres and share their work globally.
Someone else's work, in music or beyond, that you admired lately.
The Happiness Project. They donate 15 percent of net profits to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Mental health is important in any industry but it's critically important in music, with its unique pressures and challenges. Prioritizing mental health not only benefits artists but contributes to a more resilient music community. It also helps artists serve as role models for all listeners, and especially the younger generation.
A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.
Sweet Success: A Simple Recipe to Turn your Passion into Profit by Candace Nelson. Candace walks the reader through the steps she took to build a globally beloved brand.
An artist you admire outside the world of music.
Your favorite fictional character.
Harley Quinn. Her journey on the big screen often involves moments of redemption and self-discovery. Despite her past mistakes and villainous actions, Quinn demonstrates growth, resilience and a willingness to change. I also happen to be a huge fan of the real woman behind Harley Quinn, Margot Robbie.
How musicians should approach working with brands.
They should be strategic, authentic and collaborative. They should focus on leveraging opportunities to enhance their visibility, expand their fan base and achieve career goals. Artists should research a brand's past work and its social media presence. Musicians should ensure that their values and the values of the brand are aligned.
How brands should approach working with musicians.
It's important to do so in a way that respects artists' creativity, values and career goals. It's important that the brand allows artists to express themselves authentically.
A mentor that helped you navigate the industry.
Wendi Eckstine, who introduced me to her husband Ed Eckstine. I knew I had two of the best mentors anyone coming up in the music business could ask for. No matter the question, the dilemma or the opportunity, they have provided invaluable support and guidance. They empowered me with self-confidence and a constant reminder to never lose sight of who I am and what I want to achieve. As a result of these relationships, I have a profound sense of gratitude and a commitment to follow their lead by paying it forward and helping others.
What you'd be doing if you weren't in the music business.
I'd either be an FBI profiler or a prosecuting attorney.
2 Minutes With is our regular interview series where we chat with creatives about their backgrounds, creative inspirations, work they admire and more. For more about 2 Minutes With, or to be considered for the series, please get in touch.
