David Baird founded Gigmor after operating as the former head of AOL's E-Commerce group, which generated over $1 billion in annual revenue. Gigmor's goal is to revolutionize how live music is booked. It serves as a social network for matching musicians and bands through a Los Angeles-based web design/development agency.
Erik Huberman: What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
David Baird: There is certain quality in your DNA that defines your creative side. I strive to create something from nothing. I am not the type of person who likes to sit around with nothing to do. I prefer to work along side a small team of people who regularly operate at full speed.
EH: Tell me about Gigmor.
DB: Gigmor was created as a platform for bands and musicians to publish, host and generate jam sessions, showcases, and auditions using an algorithm developed for a unique formula of musical compatibility. We allow musicians and bands to connect using that formula and successfully generated over 100,000 musician matches in the last year, between our members.
EH: How are you changing the world?
DB: Music is a collaborative art form, and the music business is full of inefficiencies where people have not completely used technology to connect and hire bands and musicians. We are making that process faster and more convenient. We have revolutionized how musicians and bands connect and communicate with each other.
EH: Why Santa Monica?
DB: I am originally from Canada, but I live here in Santa Monica now. I wouldn't live anywhere else in L.A. The cultural life, climate and overall community makes this a fantastic place to live. It is a great place to start and grow a business because the tech scene is very centered on the Westside.
EH: What do you think of the Silicon Beach scene?
DB: It is very centered on the west side of Los Angeles. There is a lot of talent, creativity and energy. There is a growing sense of community between technology and entrepreneurs here, and I believe it is only going to keep growing.
EH: Do you have one piece of advice for an entrepreneur starting their own business?
DB: Try not to focus too much on the mainstream, large and successful companies. Those are the "lottery winners" and they are the tip of the iceberg. Keep in mind that the majority of smaller startups and entrepreneurs grind it out for a long period of time before they discover the real traction of consumers. It will take a lot of perseverance and keeping your head up during tough times.
EH: Is there anything you'd like to share with the Santa Monica community?
DB: Develop slowly and judiciously so that there continues to be economic growth and an influx of growth within this great city. Maintain the quality of life of the residents so that the community can continue to thrive.
