Meet Claudia Castillo

We had the good fortune of connecting with Claudia Castillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CLAUDIA, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was both a strategic and deeply personal decision. I had spent years working in the entertainment industry, handling finance, production, and business affairs for major projects, but I always felt something was missing. I wanted the freedom to create, innovate, and work on projects that aligned with my vision and passion.

When I transitioned from a high-level executive career into music, I realized that opportunities don’t always present themselves, you have to create them. That mindset led me to establish CCME Productions, LLC, Cast & Cast Music Publishing, and ACCESO Live, Inc. and other ventures that bridge business and creativity. I wanted to build a company that didn’t just serve clients but also empowered artists, brands, and talent to navigate the entertainment industry with confidence and strategy.

At the heart of it, my thought process was about taking control of my career, defining my own success, and making a meaningful impact in an industry I love. I also knew that as a mother, I needed to lead by example, showing my daughters that taking risks for your passion is worth it, and that we can excel as both artists and entrepreneurs.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply intertwined with my journey. I am a bass player, and business entrepreneur, and what sets me apart is the unconventional path I took to get here. Unlike many musicians who start young, I discovered the bass later in life, almost by accident. But the moment I held that instrument, I felt something shift. I knew I had found what I was meant to do.

What makes my story unique is that I transitioned from a high-level executive career in entertainment finance and production into being a full-time musician and entrepreneur. I didn’t grow up with formal music training or encouragement to pursue this path. In fact, I had to carve my own opportunities, which led me to co-found CCME Productions, LLC, Cast & Cast Music Publishing, ACCESO Live, and Los Foreigners; all platforms that merge music, business, and creativity.

One of the things I’m most proud of is that I took risks when it mattered most. In 2017, I left behind a financially secure career to chase something uncertain but fulfilling. It wasn’t easy, learning an instrument from scratch at a professional level, breaking into a competitive industry, and building multiple businesses while raising a family required immense discipline and resilience. But those challenges made me who I am today.

Every step of this journey has been a lesson in perseverance. When I first started playing bass, I practiced 6-8 hours a day, fully committing to mastering my craft. I didn’t wait for opportunities,I created them, forming Los Foreigners to perform and grow as a musician. I networked, collaborated, and continuously put myself in situations where I could learn from the best.

One of the biggest challenges was overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations. Many people questioned my decision to leave a stable career for music. But I stayed focused on why I was doing it, to inspire my daughters, to follow my passion, and to build something meaningful.

Through out this process the lessons I’ve learn are:
1. It’s never too late to start. Society often tells us that success has a timeline, but passion and discipline can break any barriers.
2. Opportunities don’t always come to you; you have to create them. Whether it was forming a band, producing my own music content, or launching businesses, I learned that taking initiative is key.
3. Surround yourself with the right people. Mentors, collaborators, and supporters make all the difference in your growth.
4. Stay adaptable and fearless. The entertainment industry is unpredictable, and being willing to pivot, learn, and evolve has been crucial.

What do I want the world to know about me and my brand?
I want people to know that my story is proof that following your passion is worth the risk. Whether through music, production, or business, my goal is to create, inspire, and uplift others in the entertainment industry. CCME Productions, LLC is more than just a company, it’s a platform for artists, brands, and talent to break boundaries and tell their stories authentically.

At the core of everything I do, I want to show that music and business don’t have to be separate worlds; you can master both, on your own terms.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Nature is place for me to recharge and reconnect. A Week in Big Sur: The Perfect Escape

Day 1: Settle into a cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Enjoy a relaxed lunch by the river, take in the breathtaking coastal views, and end the night with dinner with a great wine.

Day 2: Start the day with a fresh-baked breakfast, followed by a scenic hike or horse riding through redwoods and waterfalls. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden coves and wrap up with a quiet, rustic dinner.

Day 3: Visit an iconic waterfall cascading onto the beach, unwind at a secluded shore with unique sand, and enjoy a sunset soak in natural hot springs before dining under the stars.

Day 4: Take a slow morning at a local café, browse an artsy bookshop, and explore the coastline at golden hour. End the night with craft drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.

Day 5: Go wildlife spotting along the shore—maybe whales, sea otters, or seals—then kayak through a peaceful estuary. Wrap up the day with fresh seafood and a local brew.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Success is never a solo journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for the people who have played a role in shaping mine. First and foremost, my husband, Patricio Castillo, has been my rock—his unwavering belief in me gave me the courage to leave a stable executive career and pursue music full-time. His support, both emotionally and professionally, has been invaluable.

My daughters, Cassandra and Penelope, also deserve recognition because they are my biggest inspiration. Every bold decision I’ve made, from launching my businesses to stepping on stage as a musician, has been driven by the desire to show them that passion and perseverance can shape your destiny.

In the music world, I owe a huge thank you to Billy Sheehan, whose mentorship has been instrumental in my growth as a bassist. His masterclass in Nashville was a defining moment in my journey, reinforcing that dedication and discipline are key to mastering any craft.

I also have deep gratitude for the mentors and colleagues in the entertainment industry; producers, musicians, and business professionals who have challenged and supported me along the way. My time working on major productions, from film to live events, gave me the foundation to launch CCME Productions, LLC back in 2000 and all my ventures with confidence have developed from there.

And lastly, I want to recognize every artist, collaborator, and friend who has believed in my vision and contributed to my journey. Whether through music, business, or shared creative experiences, their influence has helped shape the path I’m on today.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audiabass/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-castillo-3247641b/

Twitter: @audiabass

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/audiabass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CastMusicEnt

Image Credits
CCME Productions, LLC
Claudia Castillo
Patricio Castillo

Acceso Live
Claudia Castillo
Carlos Molina
Karla Silva

Photos in the grammys (Artist rep by Acceso Live)
Humberto Gatica
El Dasa

Family Photo
Claudia Castillo
Patricio Castillo
Cassandra Castillo
Penelope Castillo