Ep1. The story of Shazam with Founding CEO Chris Barton

Lucidity Insights: Startup Spotlights

Chris shares the incredible journey of creating Shazam, a revolutionary music identification app downloaded over 2 billion times. We explore the challenges he faced, from developing groundbreaking technology ahead of its time to navigating the startup world before the era of smartphones.

Chris also discusses the perseverance needed to overcome near-impossible obstacles, the creative fundraising strategies that sustained Shazam, and their successful acquisition by Apple.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives tech trailblazers.

Watch on our website here.

Luvut

1. Intro (00:00:00)

2. Conceptualizing Shazam before the App Store (00:01:32)

3. The rise of mobile phone adoption (00:02:59)

4. Transition from strategy consultant to entrepreneur (00:04:07)

5. Brainstorming the idea of Shazam (00:04:35)

6. Founding team and initial concept (00:06:47)

7. Early technical challenges and finding solutions (00:08:52)

8. Developing the music recognition algorithm (00:10:20)

9. Convincing investors and early funding struggles (00:14:00)

10. Business model and revenue strategies (00:16:14)

11. On cold-calling angel investors (00:19:41)

12. Securing partnerships and carrier collaborations (00:24:42)

13. Series A funding and building the product (00:26:06)

14. Surviving the early years with limited users (00:28:54)

15. Diversifying revenue streams through B2B deals with Samsung and Motorola (00:30:33)

16. The game-changing launch of the App Store (00:33:34)

17. Apple's partnership and promotional support (00:35:40)

18. Growth through word of mouth and app popularity (00:36:57)

19. The 2018 acquisition by Apple (00:38:28)

20. Reflections on Shazam’s journey and lessons learned (00:41:22)

21. Advice for entrepreneurs on timing and survival (00:43:55)