First Time At BIGSOUND? Here's What These Experts Think You Should & Shouldn't Do

First time heading to BIGSOUND? As much as making mistakes is a part of life, there’s a good chance you have a few things riding on this trip that you would rather not botch. 

No stress, though. To help you avoid the usual pratfalls, we’ve compiled ten top tips from people who’ve been there, done that, so you can put your best foot forward.

Pic by Christophe Berjot

Francesca de Valence
Founder/CEO at I Heart Songwriting Club

Make connections for a career, not a year. And follow up, follow up, follow up!

Christopher Kevin Au
Manager of Triple One

Have a schedule and stick to it. And don't burn yourself out on the first night.

Emily Kelly
Co-owner/Director, Publicity And Creative at Deathproof

Your neat and organised schedule is about to be shot to shit. Try and roll with the punches.

Alicia Sbrugnera
Head Of Music Culture And Editorial at Spotify

Get some rest beforehand. Organise your essential meetings, ASAP – the conference can get overwhelming. See as much music as you can but beware of first night fever.

Stephen Wade
CEO/Senior Booking Agent at Select Music

Just understand that most people at BIGSOUND are rushing around trying to get to meetings, see panels and acts. Don’t take it personally if anyone seems rude. Drop them an email.

Jackson Walkden-Brown
Founder/Owner at Artists Only

Brace yourself. And don't get smashed on the first night. BIGSOUND hangover days suck.

Michelle Rose
Commercial Strategy Manager, Product And Experiences at Live Nation

Get to as many keynote sessions, panels, shows and networking events as you can – it’s worth the lack of sleep.

Michelle Grace Hunder
Producer at Her Sound, Her Story

It's so overwhelming and it’s hard to see everything you want to, so don’t try to rush around too much. Have a few must-sees and a few dark horses – you might be really surprised!

Mike Sniper
Founder/CEO at Captured Tracks

Take advantage of all the connections. Make an effort to talk to artists, not just managers. Listen to all the artists who are playing, make a schedule to see the ones you want.

Chris Gill
Owner of Northside Records

Find the funk.