The skyline of Birmingham, Alabama. Wayward Publishing operates out of New York, but we still trace our roots back to the original Magic City.
The Beginning
Welcome to Wayward Publishing, a music consulting agency dedicated to empowering independent artists in the ever-evolving music industry. Now based out of the world's cultural center, New York, Wayward Publishing was founded in 2017 down south in Birmingham, Alabama. An online business at heart we work with artists, bands, and brands all across the country.
Since 2017 we have collaborated with numerous talented artists, including dylAn, Jaden Smith, Carter Ace, and RealLiveAnimals to release their music to the world. Our personalized approach, commitment to excellence, and unwavering support have made us the go-to agency for artists seeking to make a mark in the industry.
With over 40 published songs across Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and more that have amassed millions of streams and generated substantial revenue for our artists, we have a proven track record of success. Our comprehensive suite of services is designed to help independent artists succeed, including fast and simple distribution on major streaming and download platforms, targeted marketing campaigns on social media, and royalty management services.
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Our experience in music publishing and marketing makes us passionate about supporting independent artists in sharing their art with the world. We believe in the power of music to inspire and connect people and we strive to enhance the careers of passionate artists by offering fast and effective distribution, targeted marketing strategies, and royalty management services.
At Wayward Publishing, we believe that a strong team is the key to success. Our team consists of one person who's passionate about the music industry and has over 7 years of professional sales experience. We're dedicated to helping independent artists succeed. We have a unique culture that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation, and we bring that spirit to everything we do.
Our team is led by an industry professional with years of experience in the music industry, business operations, social media management, and marketing. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, and they're committed to helping our clients achieve their goals. But we're not just about experience - we're also about passion. Every member of our team is a music lover at heart, and we're all dedicated to helping artists succeed in this challenging and rewarding industry.
The Story Behind Wayward Publishing
Jackson Aaron's journey to founding Wayward Publishing is a tale of ambition, adaptability, and a passion for empowering independent artists.
In 2017, Jackson made a bold move that would set the tone for his future endeavors. He packed his car and drove 1,245 miles from Birmingham, Alabama, to Plattsburgh, New York, chasing both love and opportunity. This willingness to take risks and embrace change would become a defining characteristic of his entrepreneurial spirit.
While studying Marketing and Business Administration at SUNY Plattsburgh, Jackson juggled a full course load with multiple jobs and side hustles. From catering at the Lake Placid Olympic Center to managing properties and interning at Barstool Sports, each experience added a new dimension to his growing business acumen.
It was during this time that Jackson founded Wayward Publishing. Inspired by his father, a small business owner, Jackson saw an opportunity to help independent artists navigate the complex digital landscape of the music industry. He understood firsthand the challenges faced by talented individuals lacking the resources and know-how to reach their audience.
Since its inception, Wayward Publishing has published over 40 songs and generated millions of streams across major platforms. But for Jackson, it's about more than just numbers. It's about giving voice to artists who might otherwise go unheard.
Even as he's moved into corporate roles, developing multi-million dollar sales pipelines at companies like Dow Jones, Jackson has remained committed to Wayward Publishing's mission. He continually applies the insights gained from his diverse experiences - whether it's leveraging AI tools or optimizing marketing strategies - to benefit the independent artists he serves.
Jackson's story is one of persistent growth, adaptability, and a drive to make a difference. Through Wayward Publishing, he's not just building a business; he's creating opportunities for artists to turn their passion into sustainable careers. It's this blend of entrepreneurial spirit and genuine care for his clients that sets Wayward Publishing apart in the music industry.