What Output's CEO Gregg Lehrman Says About Failing Forward in AI Music

What Output's CEO Gregg Lehrman Says About Failing Forward in AI Music

In the fast-paced world of music technology, failure isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. Output CEO Gregg Lehrman knows this better than anyone. In a candid interview, Lehrman shared his philosophy on innovation, emphasizing that setbacks are integral to breaking new ground. ‘It doesn’t matter if you fail,’ he said. ‘That’s part of the game.’

Output: A Legacy of Innovation

Output, founded by Lehrman in 2013, has become a cornerstone of the music tech industry. Known for its cutting-edge software like Arcade and Kontakt libraries, Output has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in music production. Lehrman’s approach to problem-solving and willingness to embrace failure has driven the company’s success.

Why Failure Matters

‘Failure is not the opposite of success,’ Lehrman explained. ‘It’s part of the process.’ This mindset has allowed Output to experiment boldly, even when the stakes are high. For instance, the development of Arcade involved countless iterations and setbacks, but the result was a game-changing tool that revolutionized how producers create music.

• Experimentation: Lehrman encourages his team to explore unconventional ideas, even if they don’t pan out.
• Iteration: Every failure provides valuable insights that inform the next steps.
• Resilience: Persistence in the face of setbacks is key to achieving breakthroughs.

The Role of AI in Music Technology

As AI continues to reshape the music industry, Lehrman sees immense potential—and challenges. ‘AI is a tool, not a replacement,’ he stressed. Output’s recent AI-powered tools aim to enhance creativity rather than replace human input. Lehrman’s vision is to empower musicians with technology that complements their artistry.

Lessons for Aspiring Innovators

Lehrman’s advice to budding entrepreneurs? Embrace discomfort. ‘If you’re not failing, you’re not pushing hard enough,’ he said. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.

For more insights into AI music innovation, check out our investigation into who owns AI-generated music and how it’s reshaping copyright law.