FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DreamWorks Animation’s Head of Music Alexandra Nickson Pulls Back the Curtain on the Art, Business, and Universal Magic of Animation Soundtracks on MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Podcast
HOLLYWOOD, CA – Monday, September 21, 2026 – This week, MUBUTV’s Ritch Esra and Eric Knight welcome one of animation’s foremost music executives, Alexandra Nickson, Senior Music Executive at DreamWorks Animation, for an in-depth and eye-opening conversation about the real forces behind today’s era-defining animation soundtracks.
In this rare and revealing episode, Nickson addresses one of the industry’s most persistent misconceptions: there is no “kids’ music”—only great music. Nickson, who has overseen creative direction and business strategy behind some of DreamWorks’ biggest worldwide hits, shares why high-quality, universally appealing music is at the heart of animated blockbusters that dominate global culture from Latin America to Asia.
Highlights from the episode include:
The creative and business philosophies that drive chart-topping animation music—shattering the notion that animated soundtracks are secondary to “serious” film compositions.
Why success in animation music hinges on collaboration across long development cycles, from initial script to final mix.
Unique challenges of casting authentic singing voices for animated characters—and coaching both kids and adults to act and emote in the booth for seamless emotional connection on screen.
The powerful impact of streaming and global reach: how DreamWorks tailors musical choices for simultaneous release across dozens of territories, weaving in cultural specificity while maintaining universal appeal.
The essential skills aspiring composers, songwriters, and music supervisors need to thrive in animation—including why business acumen and superior communication trump any “animation specialist” label.
Candid advice for breaking into the field, rooted in Nickson’s own journey from administration and organization at MGM to leading a world-class music team at DreamWorks.
Nickson also shares the personal influences that shaped her path—including the life-changing impact of the Dirty Dancing soundtrack—and offers exclusive insight into the future of music in animation as new technologies and AI reshape production cycles.
Join us on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 for an essential episode debunking myths and revealing the true craft of music for animation, only on MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Podcast.
For more information on MUBUTV, contact:
John Sanders at:
Phone: 424.245.0416
Website: www.mubutv.com
Ritch Esra & Eric Knight are available for interviews across all media.
ABOUT MUBUTV
MUBUTV™ | Music Business Television is an online music business channel featuring news, original programming, and interviews with leading experts in the music industry. Its mission is to educate, empower, and engage musicians and industry professionals of the twenty-first century.
About MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Podcast:
The video series takes a deep dive into the many challenges and nuances of building a viable and sustainable career in today’s new music business. Guests have included music attorney and author Donald Passman, producer Mike Clink [Guns N’ Roses], A&R legend John Kalodner, independent artist Ari Herstand, and more. Hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, co-founders of the platform.
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