How Zvezdan Zdravic Built 7clouds and Revolutionized the Music Industry

July 2024 · 7 minute read
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The owner of the online channel, record label and music curation brand shares the secrets behind his success

Breaking into any business or industry can feel overwhelming due to competition and roadblocks. For budding entrepreneurs with limited resources and experience, trying to make waves in a cutthroat market can be difficult.

But there’s a way to tackle these challenges head-on, says Zvezdan Zdravic, the owner of 7clouds, a YouTube channel, record label and music curation brand. “In both music and entrepreneurship, the path to success is rarely linear,” he explains. “It’s about facing challenges head-on, learning from failures and continuously adapting and evolving.”

With 7clouds, Zdravic shows how technology and innovation could level the playing field and give new talent the exposure they are seeking.

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Innovate

In this fast-growing world, innovation is the name of the game. Zdravic seeks to constantly push the boundaries of what’s possible in the music industry, from pioneering new ways to promote music online and embracing cutting-edge technologies to enhancing the listener experience.

“If you want to succeed in the music industry or entrepreneurship, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and jump boundaries,” he says. “Art has never been normal or based on conventions. It’s not about what people think about your art. Instead, it’s how you feel about your own art.”

Zdravic advises embracing change, experimenting with new ideas and staying ahead of the curve. “Innovation isn’t just about doing things differently; it’s about doing them better,” he adds.

Be Ready to Fail

Zdravic knows firsthand that success doesn’t come without challenges. Throughout his entrepreneurial career in the music industry, he’s encountered numerous obstacles, including financial struggles and creative roadblocks. But instead of letting setbacks define him, Zdravic says he embraced them as opportunities for growth.

“In the music industry, setbacks are inevitable,” he says. “But it’s how you respond to them that truly matters. Each failure presents a chance to reassess, adapt and come back stronger. Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about bouncing forward. Use setbacks as opportunities to refine your approach and push yourself to new heights.”

By reframing failure as a step to success, Zdravic encourages aspiring artists and entrepreneurs to adopt a growth mindset. “Every setback becomes a chance to learn and grow, ultimately leading to greater achievements in the future,” he says. “Remember, it’s not about how many times you fall. It’s about how you rise to the challenge each time, armed with newfound knowledge and resilience.”

Create Lasting Relationships

Zdravic underscores the importance of mentorship in entrepreneurship, crediting much of his success to the guidance and support he’s received from mentors. He emphasizes the invaluable insights mentors offer, drawn from their own experiences and successes, which can be instrumental when facing challenges or making critical decisions.

According to Zdravic, aspiring entrepreneurs should actively seek out mentors who can provide guidance, share experiences and help avoid common pitfalls. He also encourages them to reach out and ask for advice, highlighting the willingness of mentors to support those eager to learn.

“By learning from those who have walked the path before you, you can gain valuable insights and avoid costly mistakes, ultimately accelerating your journey towards success,” Zdravic says.

In Zdravic’s view, mentorship is not just about receiving guidance but also about building meaningful relationships with experienced professionals who can provide ongoing support and encouragement. By leveraging the wisdom and expertise of mentors, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate industry challenges more effectively and increase their chances of achieving their goals.

Zdravic touts his “Growth Hub” mentorship programs as more than just advice sessions. “They’re real, hands-on opportunities for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs to learn the ropes and get a leg up in the industry,” he shares. Proudly spotlighting the community he has helped build, Zdravic adds, “It’s not just a network; it’s a support system. A place where young creatives can come together, share ideas and lift each other up. It’s all about collaboration, not competition.”

Never Leave Tech Behind

In today’s digital era, technology is reshaping both the music industry and entrepreneurship landscapes. “Digital platforms and technologies have revolutionized how music is both created and shared,” Zdravic says. “To succeed in the music industry or entrepreneurship today, it’s crucial to harness the power of technology effectively.”

He advises aspiring individuals to embrace digital platforms for promoting their music or business ventures. “Digital platforms serve as invaluable tools for reaching and engaging with your target audience,” Zdravic explains. “By leveraging these platforms strategically, artists and entrepreneurs can amplify their presence and grow their brand exponentially.”

Moreover, Zdravic emphasizes the importance of leveraging data analytics to gain insights into audience preferences and behaviors. By analyzing data, individuals can tailor their content or products to better resonate with their target demographic, thus optimizing their strategies for success. “By understanding your audience’s preferences, you can tailor your offerings to better meet their needs, ultimately enhancing your chances of success,” he says.

Additionally, Zdravic encourages aspiring individuals to explore innovative tools and technologies to enhance their creative processes. “Technology isn’t just a tool; it’s a catalyst for innovation and growth,” he says. “By embracing innovative tools and techniques, individuals can unlock new possibilities and propel their creative endeavors to new heights.”

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