In a bold move that’s sure to spark excitement—and perhaps a bit of controversy—Matt Pelling, the visionary founder of Loopmasters, has reclaimed his brainchild from Beatport, declaring, ‘Loopmasters has always been in the inspiration business.’ But here’s where it gets intriguing: this isn’t just a story of a founder returning to his roots; it’s a tale of evolution, innovation, and the delicate balance between tradition and technology in the music industry.
Founded in 2003, Loopmasters quickly became a cornerstone for producers worldwide, offering a leading sample library that fueled countless creative projects. Pelling’s journey didn’t stop there—he later launched Plugin Boutique and Loopcloud, both of which, alongside Loopmasters, were acquired by Beatport in 2020 for an undisclosed sum. Since then, Pelling has been steering the Rhodes Music Group as a director, a role he plans to maintain while diving back into the world of Loopmasters. This reacquisition marks a significant shift: for the first time, Plugin Boutique and Loopmasters are operating independently, raising questions about the future direction of both entities.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Pelling’s return isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about reimagining what it means to inspire creators in an era dominated by AI and rapid technological advancements. In his own words, the past five years have allowed him to start a family, explore other ventures, and gain fresh perspectives. Yet, he admits, ‘I always missed what I had built with Loopmasters and Loopcloud.’ This emotional connection to his creations is palpable, but it’s his forward-thinking vision that’s truly captivating.
‘Today’s technological landscape has only inspired me more,’ Pelling shares. ‘Working on multiple projects, I’ve contrasted crafting handcrafted musical instruments at Rhodes with modern AI-assisted software. The common thread? Creating tools that stand the test of time.’ This duality—honoring the past while embracing the future—is at the heart of his renewed mission.
When asked about immediate plans, Pelling is both ambitious and cautious. ‘We have big ideas, but it’s crucial to evaluate them properly,’ he explains. ‘Our goal is to serve our customers authentically, not just add complexity for the sake of it.’ This commitment to purpose-driven innovation is refreshing, especially in an industry often criticized for prioritizing trends over substance.
And this is the part most people miss: Loopmasters’ split from Plugin Boutique doesn’t signify a shrinking vision but a return to its core identity. ‘We’re a smaller company now, but it feels familiar—like the early days when we first made our mark,’ Pelling reflects. This nostalgia is tempered by a clear-eyed focus on the future, particularly the evolving landscape of online sample libraries.
Looking ahead, Pelling acknowledges the seismic shifts the industry has seen—from CD-ROMs to cloud-based subscriptions—and the looming influence of AI. ‘As musicians, we’re always evolving,’ he notes. ‘But our mission remains the same: to inspire and be inspired.’ This raises a thought-provoking question: Can AI-generated content ever truly replace the human touch that has defined Loopmasters for nearly 25 years?
Pelling’s stance is nuanced. While he doesn’t rule out AI-created material, he emphasizes, ‘Human-created content remains at the heart of what we do. That human connection, creativity, and feel are what we stand behind.’ This commitment to authenticity is commendable, but it also invites debate: Is there room for AI in the ‘inspiration business,’ or does it risk diluting the very essence of creativity?
As Pelling juggles his roles at Loopmasters and Rhodes Music Group, he highlights the synergies between the two brands. ‘Anything is possible,’ he says, hinting at potential collaborations that could reshape both companies. His time at Rhodes has taught him invaluable lessons, particularly about the importance of brand reputation and community. ‘You should be proud of everything you create,’ he advises. ‘The closer we stay to the music itself, the more authentic our brand will feel.’
So, what’s next for Loopmasters? Pelling’s vision is clear: to remain a beacon of inspiration in an ever-changing industry. But the real question is, Can Loopmasters continue to thrive by staying true to its roots while embracing the future? Only time will tell. What’s your take? Do you think AI has a place in music creation, or should platforms like Loopmasters stick to human-made content? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments below.
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