Where are you based?
We’re a Cornish based business that is situated in Truro, but I tend to split my time between Cornwall and Reading. Occasionally I have to head back to the US, too.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I am one of the Co-founders and Head of Artist Services for GigRealm. I spend most of my time talking, setting up strategic partnerships, building marketing campaigns, and nurturing further networks within the music industry.
What are you listening to?
A very cliche answer, but everything! Love Pip Blom at the moment, Self Help, Opus Kink, The National. We also have some great up-and-coming acts on GigRealm such as Ant Rubery & Spitfire Tides, who I’m really into.
How do you discover new music?
The old fashioned way! I look at who’s coming to town and just go and see them. I always thought this is the best way to do it; it opens you up to a lot of music you may otherwise not listen to. I find a lot of new music on Spotify recommended acts, new music subreddits, and word of mouth is also huge – one of the perks of being in music is being around people with fantastic taste!
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
I usually use streaming services if I’m being honest. Don’t get me wrong, I still actively collect vinyls and go into stores on a regular basis; I’m a sucker for merch… But for ease-of-use you’ll usually find me blaring something from Spotify.
I still actively collect vinyls and go into stores on a regular basis; I’m a sucker for merch… But for ease-of-use you’ll usually find me blaring something from Spotify.”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
I have some form of audio playing at all times. Music is always on in my house or when I’m walking/travelling and really never stops. Thanks to years of drumming and touring, the tinnitus never turns off so the music doesn’t either! Wear your earplugs, it’s no joke.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
I find Reddit to be a really good source of brand new music. I’ll also search hashtags for particular genres I’m into at the moment on social media. My friends are a big influence when they’ve gone to see a little-known band and want to show me them. I am more than happy to oblige!
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
A lot of times I don’t think you get the same feeling as you would live. Naturally, working in live music, this is a big thing for me.
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
I tend to save everything to either a playlist or write it down. I have so many notepads just full of music I have either listened to, wanted to listen to or have been meaning to get to for a while! All of these are dated, a little bit crazy but it works for me!
Do you tip other people off to new music? How?
Luckily for me, my role involves a lot of talking so that’s exactly what I do! Any conference I go to or anytime I see someone when I’m out, I’m usually talking to them about something new that I’ve stumbled across.
Anything you want to “promote”?
GigRealm powered a Recognise The Music Week with Audoo last year that made a really big impact – 32 acts over 3 days in 16 venues across London. It all revolves around making sure artists get fair pay for their work, whether that’s compensation for live or recorded music. Keep an eye out, UK-wide event coming soon!
