Seattle-based startup Soundry AI, founded by Mark Buckler, Diandre Ruiz, and Justin Parus, is part of the latest cohort at Y Combinator. The platform uses generative artificial intelligence to help musicians create samples for songs, allowing users to experiment and fine-tune drum beats, bass lines, and more through various text prompts. Soundry’s co-founder Diandre Ruiz, a musician with the band Bandlez, highlights the platform’s ability to turn emotions and feelings into samples rather than purchasing pre-existing samples online.
Competing in the space with companies like Suno AI and music sample libraries such as Splice and Output, Soundry partners with artists and licenses their songs and samples to help train its AI. The platform offers “infinite sample packs” in genres like Hip-Hop and Dubstep Drums. CEO Mark Buckler envisions making music as simple as playing with LEGOs with the goal of creating a seamless user experience. The platform integrates with music production software like Ableton to enhance the music-making process.
Soundry operates on a subscription model, charging $10 a month for access to all sample packs. They release new packs each week, offering different styles and partnerships to members. The target customers for Soundry are audio prosumers, high-level hobbyists, and professional musicians who can use the tool to enhance their music production. Some users are even using Soundry for non-music-related purposes, such as adding footstep sounds to indie games.
The team at Soundry believes that AI can enhance the creative process for musicians by providing additional tools for expression. Co-founder Diandre Ruiz emphasizes that the power of AI lies in helping individuals communicate their unique experiences and stories. By giving artists more tools to express themselves, AI can facilitate a greater variety of content and storytelling within the music industry. Soundry is focused on providing a platform that complements human creativity rather than replacing it entirely.
In addition to Y Combinator, Soundry is close to completing a seed round of financing to support its growth and development. The team is dedicated to continuously improving the platform and expanding partnerships to enhance the user experience. With a strong focus on serving the needs of musicians and providing innovative tools for creativity, Soundry is poised to make a significant impact in the music industry. Through their subscription model and commitment to ongoing development, Soundry aims to empower musicians at all levels to create music that resonates with their unique experiences and emotions.
