MINDY PETERSON, NCTM

Three singers in recording studio on Picspree

March 9, 2021

You can make music with others anytime, anyplace, and with anyone (including Ed Sheeran and Disney’s Maui the demigod!) thanks to an app that has a really unique way of bringing the world together thru the medium of music. Smule encourages people to create, not just consume, music – and to create music together. Smule co-founder and CEO Jeff Smith explains how music is the original social network.

Guest

I recently learned about an app that has a really unique way of bringing the world together thru the medium of music. It is an app that encourages people to create, not just consume, music – and to create music together. It has a name that makes me smile – Smule – and I have Smule’s CEO with me here today (through the wonders of technology).  Jeff Smith is a lifelong musician and longtime Silicon Valley entrepreneur. Jeff started Smule in June of 2008 with a vision to bring music back to its roots as a creative, participatory medium. Jeff has multiple degrees from Stanford University in Computer Science and Music, including a PhD in Computer based Music and Acoustics.

Notes

• Smule taps the technology of the smartphone to help people make music, and make music together.
• Jeff explains what Smule is.
• With Smule, you can sing a duet, solo, or join a group performance. You can also play an instrument or record your dog barking!
• Users can create music with top artists AND Disney characters, including Demi Lovato, Ed Sheeran, Charlie Puth, and Maui the demigod (from Disney’s Moana).
• No experience is needed; users represent the entire spectrum of talent, ability, and experience.
• The experience is designed to increase accessibility and reduce inhibitions in creating music with others.
• Smule’s AutoRap app converts words to rap and corrects bad rapping!
• Jeff tells us the story of how Smule got its name!
• “Music is the original social network” – Jeff Smith
• Smule offers funding on a case-by-case basis to support its educational use in schools. For more information, please contact info@smule.com.

Connect/Other Resources

• https://www.smule.com/
• Facebook: @Smule
• Twitter: @Smule
• Insta: @Smule
• Smule offers funding on a case-by-case basis to support its educational use in schools. For more information, please contact info@smule.com.

In-Episode Promo

If you’re a regular listener of this show, you’ve probably heard me talk about my Rolflex Pro. It played a significant role in healing my repetitive use injuries; and I have continued to use it every day for years, both to prevent injuries – and because it feels so good! The Rolflex Pro is a foam roller tool with clam-shaped arms that provide leverage to adjust the pressure to whatever you like or can tolerate. I use it mainly on my arms and neck/shoulder area; but it can be used on any body part because of how it’s designed. I highly recommend it. As I mentioned, I’ve been using the Rolflex daily for years, and recently signed up as an affiliate; so you can help support the show – at no extra cost to you – by purchasing through this link. The Rolflex is eligible for reimbursement from Flexible Spending Accounts and HSAs; it’s also eligible for medical insurance reimbursement in certain situations. More information is on the Rolflex website. (Visit Ep. 80 show notes for a photo of my Rolflex Pro in my workout area in my basement.)

Coda

Smule unexpectedly became a tool for one man to manage his clinical depression by literally singing his blues away. And science backs up the physiological changes that can come from singing, especially singing with others. Jeff shares other stories where use of the Smule platform enhanced lives in unique ways. Jeff also shares his own impromptu rendition of a Johnny Cash song.

Closing Words

I’d love to hear about your experience with Smule, whether you use it for personal use or in a school or educational setting. You can connect with me on email, social media, or my website. Thank you so much for joining me today. Until next week, may your life be enhanced with music.