Gemtracks offers a wide range of song instrumentals and articles, along with an exclusive online store that provides unique backing tracks for bands, singers and songwriters. The Xaavo team recently interviewed the founder of Gemtracks, Jesse Neo to learn about his entrepreneurial journey.

1) Please tell us something about yourself/your business. 

My name is Jesse Neo. I am originally from Sydney, Australia but now based in Los Angeles. Growing up, I was exposed to music from a very early age. However, it wasn’t something that I wanted to do as a career. Instead, I studied Computer Science in college. Then in 2016, I was encouraged to take an electronic music production class because I was really into raves. Suddenly I realized it was something I wanted to do. I began releasing hits and wrote songs for other artists. After some time, I figured I should start a business where I can sell unused songs for other artists to use. This turned out to become my business, Gemtracks, where artists can find beats for sale.

2) How did you get into what you do right now? Please tell us more about your journey? 

Before starting Gemtracks, I actually worked as songwriter for a record label. I learnt a lot about how the industry worked that I thought it was time I started my own business. I created the website, listed some of my beats, and suddenly sales began to come through.

3) Who are your role models? 

I have a lot role models. In the business world, I look up to Henry Ford, Conrad Hilton and Paul Allen. In the music business, I am highly inspired by Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson and Madonna. They have all made a great contribution to their industries with their entrepreneurship.

4) What’s your most memorable experience?

The most memorable experience running Gemracks was when people started to buy my beats and then big names producers started to contact me to ask if they could also sell their beats on Gemracks. This prompted me to redesign Gemtracks into a public marketplace, which I did.

5) How has failure set you up for later success?

Failure has taught me to keep working. Even if there is nothing to do, look for new ways to grow or promote the business. If I started doing my marketing earlier, I would have more sales now.

6) When you feel unfocused, what do you do? 

When I’m out of the zone, I would get inspirations from reading autobiographies and memoirs of successful people in the past. In fact, I just finished reading about how the Hilton Hotel was built. Just knowing there have been people before me that went through the same doubts and pain really inspire me with hope and confidence.

7) How do you feel you make a difference in the world?

My goal is to merge technology and music together so transform how the industry works. Right now we are already seeing a lot of virtual performances. Eventually, I want to contribute more to this area by creating more digital tools to help artists.

8) How can people connect with you?

They can reach me at https://www.gemtracks.com