By MUBUTV Staff
The Power of Community and Authenticity in Music: MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast Louis Posen Founder of Hopeless Records
Building a record label from your bedroom isn’t just about having cool posters and a dream. It’s about what truly powers success and real change. Today, we’re diving into “The Power of Community and Authenticity in Music: MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast Louis Posen founder of Hopeless Records”—a conversation that shows how heart, values, and helping others beats any chart-topping hit.
You don’t need the biggest budget.
You need a mission, a connection, and a reason to get up and keep going—even when the world says you can’t.
Because what Louis Posen shared isn’t just insider business tips.
It’s this:
You can build something meaningful in music—something that lifts up others and creates real belonging.
You don’t have to pretend.
You center artists, fans, and your core values, and the rest follows.
And so the amazing stuff—the labels, the support, the projects helping people—
Actually happens.
Not just because of streams or sales.
Until you stop asking,
“How do I land a hit song?”
And start saying,
“How do I support my community and leave a positive mark?”
That shift—community before commerce—was the unlock.
Now the best labels don’t just sell music.
They build movements.
🎙️ In this episode of MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast Louis Posen [MIP142], we hear exactly how Louis Posen did it—
And how you can, too, even if you start with very little.
🎧 Listen if you want a sneak peek at the real magic inside the music business.
It’s not just about making records.
It’s about making a difference.
KEY TAKEAWAYS: The Power of Community and Authenticity in Music
- Building from Values:
Starting Hopeless Records with $1,000 and a punk spirit, Louis Posen built his label on 11 core principles—like treating people kindly, listening, and sticking to authenticity. These values aren’t just on a website. They’re in every decision and every relationship at the label. - Artist-Centric Approach:
Hopeless Records doesn’t just chase hit makers. Louis Posen looks for artists with a story, a message, and a vision to actually make a cultural impact. Fans come for the music, but stay for the community, the sense of belonging, and the emotional connection. - Redefining Success:
Success isn’t measured by streams or chart numbers. At Hopeless, true success means artists making their own art, playing for fans around the world, and helping others. It’s about careers that last decades, not just overnight fame. - Philanthropy and Outreach:
The Hopeless Foundation has raised over $3 million for 50+ causes. They fund studios and music programs for underprivileged youth. The label’s “Songs That Saved My Life” project proves music can champion mental health and social change. - Adapting and Learning:
Being independent is a mindset. It’s about adapting to change, staying curious, and growing every day. Louis Posen’s journey—even as a legally blind entrepreneur—shows that overcoming challenges can make you a better leader, listener, and mentor.
The Power of Community and Authenticity in Music: MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast Louis Posen Founder of Hopeless Records
BEST MOMENTS: Quotes from Louis Posen
- “Our music is not song based, even though there are great songs. It’s really about culture, lifestyle, and connecting with fans on an emotional level and being part of a larger community.”
- “You want to surround yourself with people who share your values, who believe in you, who lift you up and aren’t trying to put you down.”
- “Our mission statement at Hopeless is to make a positive impact. We’re always trying to make the world a little bit better.”
- “For every one artist, there’s probably 200 other jobs supporting that artist. There’s a lot of people who don’t even know that opportunity exists.”
TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW
- 00:00: Podcast intro—how Louis Posen started with $1,000 and a dream.
- 07:15: The label signs artists with a vision—impact comes first.
- 10:14: Why Hopeless focuses on culture, not just songs.
- 14:10: Success goes way beyond money or hits.
- 17:41: The Hopeless Foundation’s mission to help others.
- 25:09: How Louis Posen’s blindness shaped his leadership.
- 28:05: Building studios and careers for under-resourced youth.
- 31:57: Books, films, and podcasts that inspire growth and self-reflection.
- 32:48: Advice for the next generation: live with humility, learn, and always care about people.
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Our Best Guides, Frameworks, and Templates: MUBUTV Free Guides
LINKS TO CONNECT WITH THE HOST
- Podcast: MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast
- Website: https://www.mubutv.com
- Instagram: @mubutv
- YouTube: MUBUTV Channel
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Ritch Esra and Eric Knight are on a mission to educate, empower, and engage music industry professionals and artists everywhere. Whether you’re starting out, growing your label, or changing lives, their podcast is where you’ll find the insights and inspiration to fuel your journey.
No big billboards needed.
No overnight success required.
Just a heartfelt drive to make something that lasts—and matters.
If you’re ready to redefine what music success looks like, listen to the full episode of The Power of Community and Authenticity in Music: MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast Louis Posen.
Your music career—and your community—deserve it.
