Dean Goodermote Brings Musical Magic to Scenius Hub

On Saturday,22nd February, Scenius Hub played host to a special guest, Dean Goodermote, who is passionate about both music and community. During his visit, he partook in a vibrant musical session and a mini studio performance by the Scenius Band, a dynamic ensemble that uniquely blends the rich cultural heritage of South Sudan and Sudan.

Dean Goodermote with the Hub management team at Scenius Hub

A Fusion of Cultures and Sounds

The Scenius Band, known for its in-house performances during Scenius Hub events and GoGo Play’s monthly show titled Istamta Ma Ana (“Enjoy with Me”), brought together an impressive lineup of talent. During today’s session, the band featured two vocalists, Quinie and Sharon, with Struggle Kizito on the keyboard; Batista, who delivered soulful guitar rhythms; and Philip, whose acoustic guitar and harmonica set the mood. Simon contributed with the wooden xylophone, while Mohy, the band’s manager, ensured everything ran smoothly. The band’s versatile performances, ranging from covers of Acholi songs to R&B and reggae tunes, underscore its commitment to celebrating the diversity of African music. The ensemble also collaborates with notable South Sudanese artists, including W J the King, Honey Beever, and MC Lumex, particularly as part of the Full Moon Concert Series at Pyramid Hotel.

Dean with the Scenius Hub Band at the Studio

An Esteemed Visitor with a Passion for Music

Dean Goodermote, whose illustrious career spans early-stage software companies in fields as diverse as clinical trials, plant maintenance, and disaster recovery, is no stranger to leadership and innovation. His extensive work on boards and committees, including stints with Berklee College of Music, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and the New England Aquarium, has made him a respected figure in both business and non-profit circles. At 71 years old, Dean combines his expertise in entrepreneurship with his lifelong passion for music, often taking on the role of bandleader and active musician himself.

Today, Dean’s visit to South Sudan was part of his annual tour to check on a non-profit where he serves on the board. His stops are more than just oversight visits, they are opportunities to connect with the community and celebrate local talents. Drawn by his love for music, Dean made his way to Scenius Hub, where he was warmly greeted by the band, who were already set up and ready to perform.

Engaging with the Artists

Throughout the performance, Dean’s presence was more than that of a passive observer. Between sets, he engaged deeply with the musicians, posing questions about their individual styles and how they balance their artistic pursuits with the need to earn a living. His curiosity even led to light-hearted banter when he asked about the legendary Beatles, a conversation that revealed both generational and cultural contrasts among the band members. Dean recounted memories of the last Beatles concert he attended, adding a personal touch to the dialogue.

As the performance drew to a close, Dean took the opportunity to thank the band for their inspiring music and shared a heartfelt piece of advice: the importance of continuous practice and dedication in mastering one’s craft.

A Universal Connection Through Music

Dean Goodermote’s visit to Scenius Hub was a testament to the unifying power of music, a universal language that transcends borders and bridges the gap between hearts and souls. His interactions with the Scenius Band not only highlighted the region’s rich musical traditions but also underscored the role of music in fostering cultural dialogue and community engagement.

In a day marked by melody and meaningful exchanges, Scenius Hub once again proved to be a vibrant space where art, culture, and community come together in harmony.

Dean Goodermote During his visit at Scenius Hub

About Dean Goodermote

Dean Goodermote – Entrepreneur, Music Innovator, and Investor

He is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and music innovator with over 25 years of experience leading early-stage software companies through product development, revenue growth, brand creation, and successful exits. He has taken two companies public and led four others through successful mergers.

Beyond his work in the tech industry, Dean has been actively involved as a venture partner and has served on various public and private boards. His leadership extends into the nonprofit sector, where he contributes to organizations such as Berklee College of Music, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the New England Aquarium, and the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association.

Currently, Dean is the CEO of Vinyl Dreams, a groundbreaking virtual music studio designed to democratize music production. The platform empowers anyone, regardless of their musical background, to create studio-quality music from a mobile device. It also serves as a marketplace where producers can showcase and sell their unique styles. Vinyl Dreams is currently in limited testing and is set to revolutionize accessible music creation.

Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Dean is an active musician who writes, produces, and performs. His passion for music is deeply integrated into his career, bridging the gap between technology and creative expression.