Pickle Music Studios’ managing director/executive producer James Zavaleta has been named company partner. A certified minority-owned business, Pickle Music Studios is a music agency known for its curation and creation of music and sound for branded content and advertising. James joined Pickle as managing director/EP in 2022.
With studios in New York, Los Angeles, Madrid and Buenos Aires, Pickle is diverse and global, providing brands and agencies depth of experience, perspective and scope. For both Zavaleta and company founder Alexis Estiz, the company’s mission is defined by approachability, curiosity, and the goal of creating deep connections with audiences through the sonic landscape.
“From day one, James has been a partner in all but title, contributing his passion and leadership to Pickle Music,” said Estiz. “He also comes from a music background so he unites entrepreneurship and creativity beautifully. He’s one of those people who makes intense work seem effortless–and that’s about passion, integrity, and really enjoying what you do.”
“The DNA of Pickle Music is very much about craft and simply being who we are and letting that shine through in our process. That authenticity is what inspires me and my role here,” reflected Zavaleta. “Music may be a universal language but that also means considering the impact and audience–and how the full audio landscape can shape the way we connect–whether on stage or how we identify with visual narratives. That consideration has been a lifelong influence and is at the heart of what we do.”
Born and raised in Southern California, Zavaleta is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and executive producer with credits that range from performing alongside some of the biggest names in entertainment. Zavaleta was drawn to the world of music for advertising, first as a vocal and on camera talent. Since then he’s had the opportunity to work with major brands like McDonald’s, Tide, Downy, T-Mobile and TikTok to name a few. During the course of his career, he has worked with many top music houses including Butter Music + Sound where he led a multicultural department as EP in 2020 before joining Pickle Music.
The origin of Pickle Music started with an unprecedented opportunity: A Super Bowl ad for Tide that went on to be recognized with Cannes Lions and other awards. Pickle has gone on to turn out market campaigns for such brands as DoorDash, Toyota, AT&T, Heinz, MillerLite and more.
“It is a distinct honor to have a growing number of agencies and brands trust us to provide creativity and perspective to their campaigns both in the U.S. and internationally,” said Zavaleta. “In five years, Pickle has accomplished a great deal but there is more to be done, which is energizing.”
“Coming to New York was a dream for me,” concluded Estiz, “and to know we have since created a known brand and community makes me proud of what we built. It’s not easy but it has been extremely fun. I have never had a partner before, because it was only at this moment that it felt right. We are now in the best position possible for the next 10 years.”
