Organisation: Vinyl Me, Please - Senior A&R
How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? I've spent my life in music: state choirs led to making music in college while interning at labels and management companies. Next, I began A&R scouting for Mom + Pop records; and finally, moved to Denver for Vinyl Me, Please, where I've expanded our A&R and new music programs.
What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? The industry is realising how important physical merchandise can be. Vinyl gives fans the opportunity to wear their fandom like a badge. This includes the artists, too. They are recognising the importance of physical product - they want to hold their music again - instead of having it live online.
What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? The repercussions of a mostly analytics-based A&R strategy. Playlists favour music that follows current trends, ignoring artists with a unique sound. By focusing solely on numbers and refusing to help foster talent without the guarantee of immediate ROI, we're not giving artists the chance to reach their creative peak.
What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Get involved now. Go to shows in your area. Get acquainted with your scene. Also - COFFEE. The most meaningful connections I've made started with a cold email asking to grab coffee. People are generally eager to provide wisdom to younger generations - especially if they were extended that kindness.
What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the BIGSOUND conference and what are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel? At my hook-up session I'll be discussing: how artists and labels can work with Vinyl Me, Please, the importance of vinyl in the current marketplace (especially for emerging and developing artists) and general "do's" and "dont's" when it comes to putting together a vinyl package. I'm hoping to get a better understanding of the wants and needs of artists and labels with respect to physical goods and general partnership strategies.
What do you personally hope to take away from your time at BIGSOUND? It will give me a chance to look at our own processes from a different perspective so that we can continue to grow and improve. Also, exploring and experiencing the vibrant AUS music scene!
Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND and why? I've got a tonne of people that I'd like to see, but my standouts are: JEFFE, yu yi, Olympia, The Beths, Gabriella Cohen, Charlie Collins, KAIIT and Tape/Off.
When and where is your panel? 6 Sep, X-Cargo, 2pm.
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