The Story Behind Absolute Media Labs
Dave Rosen
Production Industry Pioneer, Entrepreneur, and Veteran Advocate
Dave Rosen began his career in the production industry at the age of 18, working at Ocean Way Recording — once the world’s largest recording studio. There, he collaborated with iconic artists such as Lionel Richie, Neil Diamond, Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones, the Indigo Girls, Ry Cooder, Rod Stewart, and George Harrison. Initially assisting on projects, Dave soon transitioned into management, overseeing the procurement of vintage equipment from studios worldwide. This experience led him to establish a vintage equipment rental company.
After striking out on his own, Dave founded WorldLink Digital, one of the first Pro Tools rental companies globally. Despite early skepticism and slow adoption, Dave’s persistence paid off. He built strong relationships with record companies, producers, engineers, and film studios, including Fox Studios. Known for his “never say no” attitude, Dave delivered equipment at all hours, helping Fox on major productions such as Independence Day and Armageddon. This dedication earned him office space at Fox Studios to create a Pro Tools training facility, helping transition the industry from magnetic tape to digital workflows.
Through these relationships and his commitment to education, Dave positioned his company as the premier vendor for all major studios and sound houses in Los Angeles, eventually owning around 75 Pro Tools and Avid Audio Vision systems. As technology evolved and equipment demand shifted, Dave pivoted, discovering the NewTek TriCaster in the early days of live streaming. Embracing the rapidly changing landscape, his company became a leading provider of live event production services, including LED walls, audio, lighting, and more, working closely with agencies and brands to deliver content online.
Dave remains actively involved in live production, priding himself on anticipating and solving challenges before they arise. He often describes himself as a “firefighter” who quietly extinguishes problems so clients experience seamless success. “If I do my job right, no one knows what I do,” he says — because true success in production is measured by happy clients, not spotlight.
In 2011, driven by a passion for service, Dave co-founded Vets On Set with his Navy veteran father. The nonprofit focuses on helping veterans find meaningful employment in film, television, events, and sports production. Dave consistently integrates veterans into his projects, leveraging his industry connections to uplift the veteran community.
Furthering his commitment to giving back, Dave launched Hydrate to Help, a beverage company offering premium natural spring water in aluminum cans. For every case sold, a significant donation supports veteran-based nonprofits. The company is currently developing follow-up products to expand its impact both online and in stores.
When asked whether he plans to step back from live streaming to focus solely on his beverage company and nonprofit, Dave says no — creating content remains his passion, and he intends to stay at the helm of live productions for years to come.