Trio of entrepreneurs launch new app combining social networking with music

A trio of budding entrepreneurs have launched a music discovery app which is designed to combine social networking with music.

Leeds-born Tom Pickersgill, 23, and Rob Tailford, also 23 and from Darlington, have been working on their app, Zubble, since graduating from the University of York.

The app is designed to replace algorithm-based music discovery system used by most music streaming services - along with recommendations from real people who share your music tastes.

In addition, the concept will evolve to offer record labels and music venues market insights, as well as scope for artists to engage more directly with fans. The app also gives unsigned bands a direct route to the people most likely to enjoy their music.

Tom said: “There are so many people out there who are always searching for new music, and frequently talking with their friends about artists or songs to look up.

“Zubble grew from the increasing frustrations we experience when using social media and trying to discover and share music recommendations.

“Everything just feels disjointed. Until now, there hasn’t been a place where everything comes together on a user friendly and intuitive platform to help people discover new music and share it with their friends. This is the gap in the market that Zubble fills.”

The pair have been working part time to fund the business, and were joined in September 2016 by app developer Jack Chamberlain, who has built the Zubble app from scratch. They ran user testing last year, incorporating feedback ahead of beta testing and the regional launch this month.

The team is currently in discussions with music labels about collaboration opportunities, and have had discussions with a number of venues and artists, including a Grammy award-winning producer.

Business Development Consultant, Melanie Ellyard, and Chartered Accountant and Business Advisor, Colin Glass, have been working with the Zubble team to help them get from concept to launch.

Melanie commented: “Rob, Tom and Jack are a very driven, very proactive team. They’ve got a fantastic business idea and extensive technical knowledge backed by a sound business model, and they’ve put in a huge amount of work to get to this stage.

“The next step is to secure further investment, which will enable them to ramp up publicity and drive further growth of the platform ahead of a full national launch. They really are ones to watch, and I’m looking forward to working with them over the next exciting phase of Zubble’s development.”

Colin added: “Melanie and I have been mentoring the Zubble team since the outset of their business and, in my experience, they are two young entrepreneurs who will do well. They are passionate about their disruptive idea yet always willing to listen to advice.”

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