On the 9th episode of This Week In Music, Ian is joined by Dropkick Murphys bassist Ken Casey, and CEO of Dangerbird Records, Ken Castelaz.  The trio discuss the history of the Dropkick Murphys, how they approach the relationship with their fans, and what it’s like for Ken to manage them.  Other topics include The Dropkick Murphys use of the direct-to-fan business model, as well as their foundation, The Claddagh Fund.

Later in the episode Ian is joined by his daughter, General Manager of WMBR, Cambridge, MA, Zoe Rogers!  Zoe shares with Ian of her favorite acts right now: Givers.  The two play a clip from the groups music video “Meantime”, and discuss their live show.

Special thanks to our partners at billboard.biz for all of their support!

02:56 – Dropkick Murphys have two sold out shows at Fenway Park

05:59 – Introducing Jeff Castelaz of Dangerbird Records

09:20 – How do you manage all your various clients with just 10 people?

10:46 – What is the ShamRock ‘N Roll festival?

13:18 – Ian asks Ken about his “fan-focused” approach to the bands relationship with their fans.

16:16 – Ken and Jeff discuss their use of direct-to-fan business model

20:02 – How has the internet been as a tool for The Dropkick Murphys?

22:50 – Ian: How is it for you (Jeff) to work with an artist who has their own label?

27:30 – Why merchandise is one of the most important businesses of The Dropkick Murphys

29:20 – Discussing the costs of touring and how to make money doing it

32:13 – Discussing the element of music licensing for The Dropkick Murphys

39:15 – The Dropkick Murphy’s Foundation – The Claddagh Fund

41:20 – What is Ken’s advice for artists taking their first steps into the music industry?

44:51 – Givers “Meantime”

46:14 – Zoe Rogers, General Manager, WMBR, Cambridge, MA

51:20 – Ian announces Billboard.biz partnership with This Week in Music!

51:50 – Online info