Encounters

Encuentros: Juanto Tello

Encounters

Encuentros: Juanto Tello (Part 3)

In the third episode of this series exploring the craft of music supervision, Juanto Tello reflects on the unexpected side of his creative process — the intuitive discovery of music. Sometimes the perfect song isn’t found through hours of research but arrives spontaneously in everyday life: on the subway, in a café, or playing softly in the background. Tello sees this heightened awareness as a key creative tool, equal in value to technical expertise or licensing knowledge.  This episode also highlights the powerful role that TV series now play in boosting emerging artists. In an industry where mainstream radio exposure is hard to come by, audiovisual platforms give independent musicians a chance to reach millions. In projects like Entrevías, Tello carefully curated songs by little-known artists, many of whom saw a dramatic spike in listeners — especially across Latin America — after the show aired.  This approach not only enhances the narrative power of audiovisual work but also turns music supervision into a platform for discovery. Choosing a track becomes more than a stylistic decision — it’s a creative act that connects audiences with new voices and expands what music can bring to a story. 

Encounters

Encuentros: Juanto Tello (Part 2)

Juanto Tello delves into the creative and strategic challenges of selecting songs for television — with a focus on title sequences. These musical intros must capture the entire mood and message of a show. A strong choice can become iconic, setting the emotional tone and visual identity from the start — as seen in Narcos or El Embarcadero, where Travis Birds' Coyotes added depth and resonance to the series.  Tello also uncovers the behind-the-scenes complexities of music licensing. There are no standard rates — each negotiation depends on the artist, the track's rights, and the context. From the expensive deal for Van Morrison’s Days Like This to the failed attempts with AC/DC, the path to securing a song is often unpredictable and shaped by more than just budget.  This second episode sheds light on a role that merges artistic intuition, technical knowledge, and business skill. A key figure in the creative ecosystem, the music supervisor ensures that sound becomes story. 

Encounters

Encuentros: Juanto Tello (Part 1)

Juanto Tello, a seasoned music supervisor in the audiovisual world, takes us inside the nuanced craft of selecting the perfect track for each scene. His role goes far beyond picking songs — it’s about emotionally interpreting a script and using music to enhance its storytelling power. A single track can turn a good scene into a memorable one, becoming an integral part of the viewer’s experience.  This task requires vast musical knowledge — from current trends to timeless classics — as well as precision in managing music rights and licensing. The role is a hybrid of artistic intuition and technical execution, where speed and accuracy are essential to keep up with the production timeline.  This episode highlights a key creative role that bridges two powerful worlds: audiovisual storytelling and recorded music, rooted in teamwork and artistic vision.