Organisation: Future Classic - Founder & CEO
How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? During university I studied sound engineering and business while DJing and tinkering with early internet radio. My first day job in music was setting up the digital department for Inertia, home to my favourite labels at the time. Now at Future Classic we're managing artists and helping build their businesses.
What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? The increasingly complex role of the manager. Artists are in a better position than ever to control their careers and own their IP. As such managers, those closest to the artist, are more important than ever - but the job description is immense and increasing in complexity.
What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? Culturally and politically the world is unstable - that impacts us all, beyond our place in the industry. It's more important than ever that we have artists that help change the narrative.
What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Hustle, ask questions, never stop seeking knowledge and experiences, go toward the things that inspire you, don't give up. Be respectful, kind and polite but also hold your ground. It's a DIY business. The glamour is smoke and mirrors.
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? I'm moderating a panel exploring the evolving role of the manager. It's called Managing The CEO Of The Year: The Artist. I'm hoping the audience gets some tips and insights when it comes to striking the right balance between the myriad tasks required in this role, and the options out there.
What do you personally hope to take away from your time at BIGSOUND? Seeing some great new talent and meeting the people that work with them.
Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND and why? We just started managing a new band, Erthlings, who will play their first ever shows. Obviously FC client G Flip. I am keen to check out KIAN, Hachiku, imbi the girl, KAIIT, etc. There's loads.
When and where is your panel? 5 Sep, The Judith Wright Centre, 11.30am.
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