The Music Real: Recent Episodes
The Music Real
"The Music Real is a podcast sharing stories from every industry that music touches. From artists and venues to politicians, doctors and engineers, we uncover how music connects us and shed a light on those who need our support now more than ever"
Until the lockdowns, few working musicians ever needed to applying for grants. Thanks to the greatest business interuption in the history of our industry, music artists are on a steep learning curve to try and apply for some assistance from the Government. Michael and Nicki chat about things for you to consider when applying for Grants.
There is a ton of stuff to do off stage before you even get ON STAGE to perform. This episode is all about clever ways to manage your time and put systems into place to get more time back.
Michael and Nicki look at the under utilised functionality of LinkedIN in your Music Business.
Mark and Nicki deep dive into how Social Media builds value into everyone's business - the Venue and the Artist. They also look at why some Artists seem unwilling to promote their shows and get on board Social Media in their music business.
Michael, Mark and Nicki look how to show up as a live music artist by reviewing the psychology and idealogy behind staging an event in every gig that you do.
Nicki and Michael review what is needed when you market a Feature Tribute Show and come up with the definitive check list.
The Pushy team talk about the easy way to use G Suite to manage all aspects of your Music Business.
Michael, Mark and Nicki chat about the various aspects of invoices, offering tips on how to address a variety of potential issues. All designed to get you paid faster and more efficiently.
Nicki and Michael from the Pushworth team discuss how digital fits into your 21st century Music Business model.
One of the most important things in your Music Business. And it's all about reading, being able to read a room and create a night and create a memorable experience. Its about creating an EVENT. Join the Pushworth team as they discuss all the ways to create an event.
Nicki, Michael and Mark discuss all the aspects of a live music show that are considered when the team pitches to a client.
Nicki, Michael and Mark step Music Artists through an easy seven step process for their Music Business.
In the Music Real Episode 167 my guest is La Boite Theatres executive director and incoming CEO Zohar Spatz. Zohar talks about how lockdown impacted La Boite. We explore the newly funded La Boite Artist Company and we address the changes now happening in the Arts Economies around the globe as a result of the COVID interruptions. Time for representation, relevance and transformations in our industries and Zohar and her team at La Boite are setting the bar high indeed. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/12/16/zohar-spatz-the-importance-of-community/
In the Music Real Episode 166 I chat with Mik Auckland Director, Programming and Presenter Services at HOTA, Home of the Arts. Mik was involved in delivering some of the world’s greatest productions, including the Olympic Games, Rugby World Cup and the Commonwealth Games so has a keen perspective on all things entertainment and culture. We look at how HOTA managed during and post Lockdown and hear his thoughts on suitable pathways forward to better support the Arts Economies in Australia. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/12/08/mik-auckland-home-of-the-arts/
My guest is renowned Playwright and Sydney Festival Artistic Director and Australian Arts and Culture Thought Leader, Wesley Enoch. We hear about the upcoming Sydney Festival in his own words “Sydney Festival 2021 is all about kick starting the Australian arts sector by injecting more than $6 million into the pockets of those who have done it tough,”. We talk about the value and importance of art in our society especially as it enters recovery. We explore 21st century audience needs and how Arts Economies can diversify and future proof. “Artists are about finding the vocabulary for the future” Wesley Enoch. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/25/wesley-enoch-artists-are-about-finding-the-vocabulary-for-the-future/
In the Music Real Episode 164, I chat with New Zealand Publicist and Music Artist, Aly Cook who has never been so busy. Post COVID, she has been busy releasing a plethora of new music. Aly shares about working with Community Radio Stations across Australia and New Zealand. We talk about the importance of acknowledging the volunteers that man these stations. We hear about the lesson that BB King taught her and review the business practice of GRACE. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/24/aly-cook-business-is-busy-post-covid/
In the Music Real Episode 163 I chat with Emily Ulman, Managing Director and programmer of award-winning online music festival Isol-Aid. Emily and the Festival are being documented at the Melbourne Museum as part of their state heritage collection. Isol-Aid Festival won a J AWARD in the “Done Good” category!!! At the recent 2020 AIR awards, Emily received the Outstanding Achievement Award. Having recently spoken at Big Sound, Emily addressed the fact that the face of Australian Music has changed for good in this episode. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/24/emily-ulman-goes-into-isolaid/
In the Music Real Episode 162 I chat with Tal Chalak, Promoter and Music Industry Consultant and currently the organiser of Sunday Setlists at The Factory Theatre in Marrickville Sydney. We have a frank conversation about what is happening for Venues across Australia as the country gradually reopens its pubs and clubs and music venues. Together we explore the impact that the COVID lockdowns have had from a venue and promoter perspective as Tal offers guidance and tips for indie artists wanting to build their brand in the live scene post COVID. And more importantly, Tal highlights the incredible opportunity that these lockdowns have afforded many aspects of this sector. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/17/tal-chalak-real-talk-about-the-value-of-venues-in-the-music-industry/
In the Music Real Episode 161 I have the honour of speaking with Senator Sarah Hanson Young, Senator for South Australia representing the Australian Greens. Sarah recently stood up in Federal Parliament and asked for an update on the Arts Package delivery with her now infamous words “Is It Because Its Zero?” Sarah’s portfolio includes Arts, Media and Communications and she is an avid supporter of the Arts and Entertainment sectors in Australia. The Greens Plan to Let’s Recreate Australia” has a three-pronged approach to support and aid in the recovery and rebooting of an annual $112b economic contribution by these sectors. Make sure you head to Sarah’s website to sign the petition and help get our voices heard by Federal Government. It was such a privilege to speak to someone as passionate as Sarah is about our industries. We are grateful for her voice. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/17/sarah-hanson-young-is-it-because-its-zero/
In the Music Real Episode 160 I chat with theatre administrator, writer, and arts advocate, Howard Sherman who has worked with American Theatre Wing, O’Neill Theatre Center, Geva Theatre, Goodspeed Musicals and Hartford Stage. And as the US columnist for The Stage newspaper in London, with his writing appearing in Slate, The New York Times, the Guardian, and American Theatre Magazine, Howard talks all things Broadway. Howard introduces us to his book scheduled for release in Jan 2021 – Another Day’s Begun: Thornton Wilder’s Our Town in the 21st Century. When it comes to being a passionate supportive Arts advocate, Howard’s voice is being heard across the globe as he shares his thoughts. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/08/howard-sherman-another-days-begun/
In the Music Real Episode 159 My guest is Nick Hampton, author of the new Australian Music Industry memoir Nick of Time My Life and Career All On The Record. After almost 5 decades in the Music Industry, Pye Records in London, CBS Records in London and Paris and EMI records in Australia, Nick offers his insights and shares stories about his adventures. Nick was instrumental in establishing the fund-raising for charity body Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia with The Art of Music initiative and given the challenges facing our industry today, Nick shares his thoughts about the value of music. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/07/nick-hampton-in-the-nick-of-time/
In the Music Real Episode 158 I chat with Sally Anne Gross and George Musgrave, the two authors of the book Can Music Make You Sick. Lecturers at the University of Westminster, Sally Ann and George walk us through the process of writing and researching the book and what it means for the future of a global industry that is experiencing the greatest challenge in its history. This is a ground breaking book for anyone who is currently in the music industry and wondering where the hell it is going thanks to 2020 lockdowns which has decimated their industry AND for those who are thinking of making music their life work. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/11/06/sally-anne-gross-and-george-musgrave-can-music-make-you-sick
In the Music Real Episode 157, I have the honour of speaking with Dr Russell Kennedy, Neuroscientist, Medical Doctor, Speaker, Comedian and Author who has recently published his book Anxiety Rx. We talk about the COVID crazy in Victoria BC in Canada right now and then explore Russ’s work with Anxiety. Russ speaks from his experience as a music artist and comedian and addresses some of the psychological drivers for live performers and musicians and offers high level strategies to assist Arts Workers as they face the most challenging time in history. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/27/dr-russell-kennedy-arts-is-a-vehicle-that-allows-your-inner-child-to-be-seen-and-heard/
In the Music Real Episode 156, I talk with Australian Country Music legend, James Blundell about returning to live gigs, what lockdown was like for him and his vision for our industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/27/james-blundell-creating-a-consistent-uplifting-reality/
In the Music Real Episode 155 my guest is Michael Stangel, host of the vlog Three Months to Live, Music Artist, Producer, Artist Manager and candidate for Kardinia currently running for the greater Geelong City Council election. We talk about recent guidelines announced by the Victorian Commission for Gambling & Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) advising live music is no longer allowed to take place in venues and explore the language of the guidelines and how it applies to live music. We talk government support, diversification and what is needed both financially and mental health wise to ensure we are not facing an extinction level event. We hear about Mike’s election platform which includes Music and the Arts and most importantly learn about his philosophy for life which has helped him to survive some of life’s greatest challenges. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/25/michael-stangel-making-music-more-accessible/
In the Music Real Episode 154 our guest is Karen Harding the Director and Founder of Sounds On The Couch and the Couch Mag. Karen talks about her initiatives during COVID setting up a live streaming channel for emerging artists, podcast, training programs and an on line mag to support emerging artists through their career journey. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/25/karen-harding-sounds-on-the-couch/
In the Music Real Episode 153 I chat with Councillor Jonathan Sri who is a writer, musician and community worker who was elected in March 2016 as Brisbane's first ever Greens city councillor, representing the Gabba Ward.Jonathan produced the Gabba Ward Shutdown Album 2020: The Art of Hibernation which was released in September. We talk about the impact of the lockdowns on the Creative, Arts and Entertainment industries, government response and how local council in Brisbane is finding creative ways to support these industries. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/23/councillor-jonathan-sri-the-art-of-hibernation/
In the Music Real Episode 152 I chat with Global Marketing Consultant, Brendan Williams, an Aussie expat currently living in Copenhagen in Denmark. Brendan walks us through the European summer, discusses how the lockdowns in Europe and the UK have impacted the Hospitality and Music industries and then what is facing them now that they have entered their second lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/22/brendan-williams-as-europe-enters-its-second-lockdown/
In the Music Real Episode 151, I chat with Music Business Manager for the Victorian Music Development Office, Katie Stewart. We talk about the VMDO, FAIR PLAY program which has been presented by the Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO) and Diversity Arts Australia We also look at Victoria’s Digital Creator Program to talk capacity building and future proofing. We look at the government response so far and assess a vision for the recovery of the music industry throughout Australia. Check out the VMDO website as it is a treasure trove of resources for the industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/22/katie-stewart-victorian-music-development-office/
In the Music Real Episode 150, I speak with Jessie Parker general manager of one of Australia’s biggest music festivals, St Jerome’s Laneway Festival. We talk about what her festival in 2020, what 2021 looks like, the impact of loss of live shows across the industry and a vision for the future https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/22/jessie-parker-st-jeromes-laneway-festival/
My guest is Maria Amato CEO for Australian Independent Record Labels Association, otherwise known as AIR. We discuss the recent 2020 AIR Awards, Women in Music Mentor Program and chat about how to best approach the opportunities facing our industry with Maria sharing her wisdom and many insights. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/22/maria-amato-australian-independent-record-labels-association/
What is it like to write, record and produce your next single while in lockdown? In the Music Real E148 we chat with David “Messy” Mescon, producer in Nashville, Jade Holland, Music Artist in Regional Queensland, Australia and Executive Producer, Manny Kyriakidis in Brisbane, Queensland. We talk to the team about Jade’s latest single “Do It Right” and how it all came together across time zones. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/20/do-it-right-with-jade-holland-and-david-messy-mescon/
In the Music Real E147 I meet Kitch Taitu’uga Wesche Samoan Cultural Facilitator / Music Producer/ International Song writing / Film maker /beatbox looper otherwise known as Kitch. From the moment that he opened our interview with a traditional blessing until we said goodbye. I got goosebumps and I knew this would be a very special discussion. With everything that has happened to our industry this year, it was a pleasant change to talk about the healing power of music. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/16/kitch-taituuga-wesche-the-healing-power-of-music/
In the Music Real E146 I chat with Singer, Songwriter, Mark Callaghan, lead vocalist for the iconic Australian band GANGgajang and legendary music industry stalwart. We discuss Mark’s new single “Sydney Nights” a wonderful anthem capturing pockets of Australian history. “Sydney Nights by Mark Callaghan (GANGgajang, The Riptides) rekindles memories of Sydney in the mid 1980's when the city was alive with music and Australian bands were striding the world stage.“ Mark offers his thoughts on the current state of the Australian music industry in terms of government assistance, how to navigate primarily as business owners through the recovery and rebuild. We also talk about the changes that we as an industry face now. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/15/mark-callaghan-sydney-nights/
In the Music Real E145, I chat with Stuart Field, Managing Director for Oztix the iconic Australian music industry ticketing company. We talk about how when lockdowns happened and everything stopped for live music that ticketing agencies like Oztix were over the top busy processing cancellations and refunds for shows that could no longer happen. We talk about the impact on Music Industry businesses across Australia, review Government Assistance for the sector, how our industry can future proof and most importantly how to stay connected and continue to make noise about this possible extinction level event for our industry supply chains. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/14/stuart-field-oztix-its-important-that-we-all-sing-from-the-same-hymn-book/
In the Music Real E144, I chat with Cath Palfreyman PR Manager for Nando’s in Australia. Nando’s teams up with Support Act to provide 15000 meals to help feed Support Act’s grant recipients. In 2018 Nando’s Australia launched NanDonation, an initiative that secures food from Nando’s restaurants that was otherwise headed for landfill and redistributes it to charities across Australia. To date, over 300,000 meals have been provided to disadvantaged locals in need. Since April, Nando’s have contributed $4.5 million worth of food to frontline Healthcare and Emergency Service workers and have generated an additional 1 million meals to Foodbank. We hear about how Nando’s have been supporting the Music Industry in their global Music Exchange workshops and look forward to the recovery of the global Music Industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/07/cath-palfreyman-from-nandos-australia-music-is-a-great-connector/
In the Music Real E143, I chat with Australian Musician, Singer and Composer, Sarah Styles. Sarah runs Wheelie Good Productions – a professional all abilities performing group using a new music theatre format allowing all abilities to star together on stage regardless of the limitation. Sarah shares how she and her son are doing a panel at this years sci fi convention, Conquest 2020, on sci fi and mental health. With two on line courses, speaking gigs and Wheelie Good Productions this is one very dedicated Arts professional whose honest discussion about Mental Health is so vital for everyone in this industry. This is a beautiful raw honest discussion about the challenges that so many Music Artists with health challenges face. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/06/sarah-styles-giving-me-a-voice
In the Music Real E142, I chat with Global Thought Leader Mike Clark of Dent Global to offer a fresh perspective outside of the traditional music market blueprint. Mike explores ways to transfer skills, pivot, adapt, leverage and position yourself in your music business as part of a community wide roadmap to recovery. Mike also talks about the macro economic opportunity that faces us in the next decade. Make sure you check out his website and follow him on Social Media as Dent offers some great free workshops which will truly inspire you as you rebuild your music business. And kudos to him, this was a zoom interview where, like so many parents, Mike just deals with it with incredible grace and humility. 😊 https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/05/mike-clark-what-if-this-was-a-gift/
In the Music Real E141, I chat with Australia’s most famous stand-up comedian, multi award winner and the hardest working speaker in this country, Vince Sorrenti. We start with his lockdown story and what it was like to cancel, postpone and reschedule event bookings. In Vince’s own words: “It’s been brutal!” We talk about adapting to digital and how this will change the face of future of events. Vince shares the irony that now is the perfect time for comedy. And finally Vince shares his optimism about where the green shoots have started to sprout. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/05/vince-sorrenti-we-need-people-to-come-back-into-the-market/
In the Music Real E140, I chat with Federal Member for MacNamara Josh Burns MP who partnered with Ben Steel, documentary film maker for The Show Must Go On, to produce a short film called Arts in Lockdown. Josh shares some very real stories of Arts Businesses in his electorate. We talk statistics, jobs, grants and the very real challenges ahead for the Arts Economies in Australia. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/04/josh-burns-mp-we-need-our-artists-to-be-there-at-the-end-of-this/
In the Music Real E138, I chat with two of the organisers of the Be An Arts Hero campaign in the US. Matthew Lee Erlbach writer actor filmmaker from Chicago and New York and American singer actor Brooke Ishibashi. They talk about the past two months bringing together a group of volunteers across the US to activate the incredible Be An Arts Hero Campaign across all Arts and Culture Sectors. #savethearts #ArtsWorkersUnite #ArtsHero #BeAnArtsHero https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/02/be-an-arts-hero-the-us-campaign-to-savethearts-with-matthew-lee-erlbach-brooke-ishibashi
In the Music Real E139, I chat with QLD Telstra Young Business Woman of the year and Commonwealth Banks Australian of the Day and Owner of the iconic Queensland Music Venue, the Zoo, Pixie Weyand. We talk lockdown, recovery and today’s announcement about changes to restrictions in Queensland.
In the Music Real E137, I chat with Dr Eve Klein, award-winning composer, mezzo soprano, sound artist and academic. Dr Klein is currently leading a music research cluster at The University of Queensland where she is guiding postgraduate composers on the creation of virtual reality and augmented reality concert works and operas. We talk about how the events of 2020 will influence the direction of the global music industry, the transformation of future tertiary learning design and explore possible future diversification of industry skillsets in order to pivot and adapt and survive until live shows return to their pre COVID levels. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/10/01/dr-eve-klein-new-opportunities-for-arts-and-music-workers
In the Music Real E136, I am thrilled to be speaking with American Celebration Artist, Jeanne Fleming who is the Artistic and Producing Director of the Village Halloween Parade in New York. This year would have been the 47th annual parade. But 2020 has had other plans for all of us and it has sadly been cancelled. We talk about all the aspects of the parade that have made it such an iconic event worldwide. We also hear about how New York is going right now post COVID. Jeanne has created memories for millions of New Yorkers and tourists over the past few years and like so many Festivals and Public Events across the globe, not being able to deliver the parade in 2020 is almost unthinkable however in the true tradition of the parade, Jeanne and the organisers have quite a few surprises up their sleeves so stay tuned. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/29/jeanne-fleming-cancelling-the-nyc-halloween-parade/
In the Music Real E135, I chat with dancer, author and Australian Arts Thought Leader, Kate Histon who recently celebrated 20 years in Dance Dynamics in Byron Bay. We talk about what it was like to move dance classes online during lockdown and the very real emotion and anger of a long-term Arts business being interrupted. Kate shares her vision for her students, discusses her Elevate Dynamics workshops and gives us a sneak preview for her Women in Business workshops. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/29/kate-histon-20-years-and-covid/
https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/28/drewboy-from-lockdown-to-new-single-at-first-sight/
In the Music Real E134, I catch up with the very busy Australian Music Artist and Television Personality Drew Boy who is also the Co Founder and Chair Person for the charity, Kick On. Drew is also an ambassador for Polished Man this year and his new single At First Sight will be released this Thursday 1 October. We hear about Drew’s lockdown and his own personal journey that led him to establish Kick On. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/28/drewboy-from-lockdown-to-new-single-at-first-sight/
In the Music Real E133, I chat with co-founder & CEO of STREAT, Bec Scott. Truly inspiring interview where Bec shares her thoughts on pathways for business to move more into social enterprise. We hear about her enterprises and collaborations like STREAT, MOVING FEAST and CRATEFUL developed by her young son. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/17/bec-scott-social-enterprise-in-the-time-of-covid/
In the Music Real E132, I chat with Music Festival Producer and Golden Wami Award winner Phaedra Watts who has dedicated the last 12 years to the iconic and much loved Nannup Music Festival. We chat about the Festival in 2020 right just as lockdowns began as well as the question mark over 2021. Phaedra is on the Women in Music Mentor Program 2020 Advisory Committee for the Australian Independent Record labels Association so we talk strategies for women in the music business. We also shine a light on more opportunities for First Nations music. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/17/phaedra-watts-and-the-iconic-nannup-music-festival/
In the Music Real E131, I chat with Australian Music Theatre star and ambassador for Entertainment Assist, Will Centurion. Will uses Integrated Therapies to help creative minds navigate the many challenges of the arts industry. Managing issues such as performance anxiety, self-confidence issues, negative self-talk, goal setting and career transitioning. Will provides a platform where performers can access the resources, they need to enhance their psychological well-being and enjoy sustainable careers in the arts. Check in with Will for his signature programs, Rewire, Repair, Reboot. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/16/will-centurion-prepping-to-race-out-of-the-gate/
In the Music Real E130, I chat with Queensland Premier DJ, Manager of Boutique DJ Management Company, Our House Productions and Music Programming Manager for The Pushworth Group – Mark Colvin. Mark shares with us how lockdown allowed him to explore his passion for gardening as well as keep him mentally fit and healthy as a result. We talk about how the garden is teaching him about business and life giving him a purpose and keeping him grounded at a time in history where the music actually stopped. So many music artists began to garden when lockdown hit so its so great to hear Mark’s story of how the garden really helped him throughout lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/16/dj-mark-colvin-from-lockdown-to-a-garden/
In the Music Real E129, I chat with Internationally acclaimed New York Times Best Selling Author and Global Thought Leader Randy Gage. Randy has written 13 books since 2001 so as a Literary Artist who writes, speaks and tours the world working with people to find creative solutions in their business, this was a brilliant interview where Randy takes us through strategies in how to pivot and leverage the opportunities now available as a result of this pandemic. Make sure you check out the Power Prosperity Podcast. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/11/randy-gage-how-can-i-reframe-this-to-continue-to-do-the-work-that-i-love
In the Music Real E128, I chat with Internationally acclaimed, Australian Music Artist and Television Presenter for NITV Phil Walleystack who is about to hit the road on a regional tour throughout Western Australia with the Perth Symphony Orchestra with
STORYTELLAH AND SYMPHONY: CONCERTS TO LIFT COMMUNITY SPIRITS, INSPIRE CHILDREN AND COUNTER YOUTH SUICIDE DURING COVID-19
Phil is an ambassador for Arts in Western Australia and shares his vision for the tour as well as for the industry. Phil is running workshops in local schools and communities to talk about mental wellbeing, stopping youth suicide and help take people’s minds off the COVID crisis. STORYTELLAH is about bringing together ideas and cultures, without preaching or messing around and is a beautiful blueprint for how our industry and indeed the world recovers and rebuilds after 2020. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/09/11/phil-walleystack-concerts-to-lift-community-spirits/
In the Music Real E127, I chat with Rob Cannon Coach, facilitator, educator, and marketing consultant, specialising in the arts, entertainment, and creative industries. Rob is featured in the book Musicians and Addiction. We chat about his coaching techniques and strategies as well as the industry and its future and possibilities.
In the Music Real E126, I chat with Dr Sian Mitchell, Festival Director at the Melbourne Women in Film Festival and recently accepted the role of Events Co-ordinator at WIFT Victoria (Women in Film and TV), and Lecturer in Screen and Design at Deakin University. Sian has a PhD in film studies and a Masters in Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies, and her research has been in areas of Australian and women’s screen practice. We talk about the evolution of online learning and the future of festivals and storytelling post COVID.
In the Music Real E125, I chat with Award winning British Music Artist, Producer and Composer, Nitin Sawhney who is one of the most distinctive and versatile musical legends in the world today. We hear about lockdown in the UK, Nitin’s thoughts on what’s happening in the Music Industry worldwide and as well as the extraordinary events of 2020. His sequel album to Broken Skin is Immigrants and will be released early 2021. With a remarkable career of 20 studio albums, dozens of international awards, scoring 60 films and numerous TV, broadcasting for the BBC, producing a huge roster of pop, dance and classical artists, conducting several major orchestras, a patron for several charities and having collaborated with the who’s who of the music world, Nitin Sawhney tells a story that needs to be told for voices that need to be heard and I was so thankful that he added his voice to this conversation.https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/nitin-sawhney-telling-the-stories-that-need-to-be-told-for-the-voices-that-need-to-be-heard/
In the Music Real E124, I catch up with Australian Singer Songwriter Rae Leigh. Rae launched her podcast Songwriter Trysts during COVID. This podcast is a space where songwriters across the world gather together to discuss the love of songwriting and we find out about the life behind the songs. We talk about her recently released single Father’s Love and the story behind it. And Rae gives some wonderful practical advice to Artists who perhaps may be struggling at the moment. If you are a songwriter, contact Rae in the links below to share your story and add your voice to this global light. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/rae-leigh-songwriter-trysts-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E123, I catch up with Today I chat with Music Researcher, Dr. Ben Green is a cultural sociologist with interests in popular music and youth studies. Ben is an adjunct research fellow at the Griffith Center for Social and Cultural Research and a sessional academic at Griffith University. In affiliation with the Regional Music Research Group, he has undertaken industry and audience research in live music scenes, with policy impact including the City of Gold Coast’s Live Music Action Plan 2019–2023. Other work explores memory, affective belonging, and cultural change in music scenes based on ethnographic research in Brisbane. Ben introduces his present research project called Young People Music Making and Wellbeing During a Public Health Crisis. Ben shares powerful insights into the data about our industry to give us a perspective when it comes time to plot out a pathway to recovery post COVID lockdown. Ben’s current research project seeks to understand the importance of music-making for young people (between the ages of 18 – 35) as a source of well-being during the COVID-19 crisis. A key objective of the research will be to evaluate if music-making has contributed to young people’s individual well-being (extending in this context to both physical and mental health) and their sense of connection with others. Given the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project offers a significant opportunity to examine and evaluate the importance of music-making for young people, in both an individual and collective sense, in a time of rapidly shifting and increasingly uncertain socio-economic conditions. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/dr-ben-green-young-people-music-making-and-wellbeing-during-a-public-health-crisis/
In the Music Real E122, Nicki chats with major award nominee, Bobby Fox, an Irish-born Australian actor, dancer and music artist who features in Live Musicals, Major Dance Productions and whose on screen credits include Upper Middle Bogan and Househusbands and whose debut album, The Fantastic Mr Fox, features a duet with Australian supermodel Miranda Kerr. As ambassador for Entertainment Assist a National organisation that supports mental health and wellbeing of the Australian Entertainment Industry, Bobby talks about the impact of the lockdown across the industry and offers some very practical tips to help navigate through these times. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/bobby-fox-ambassador-for-entertainment-assist-lockdown-wellness-wisdom/
In the Music Real E121, Nicki chats with award winning Australian Music Artist Adam James. We talk about how the lockdown has impacted his plans to release his third studio album Russian Blue and his plans to tour to support the album release being changed as a result of uncertainty thanks to government restrictions. Adam being on the board of the Thumbs Up organisation not for profit charity whose vision is to improve the quality of life for Indigenous Australians and having worked as a mentor within the First Nations communities addresses ways to address the present inequity in Australia that still prevails. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/adam-james-delaying-an-album-release-thanks-to-lockdowns/
In the Music Real E120, Nicki chats with Award winning Author and Cartoonist Amy Kurzweil. Amy is the author of the graphic memoir Flying Couch named a 2016 New York Times Editor’s Choice and a Kirkus Best Memoir of 2016. Her comics appear regularly in the New Yorker. Amy’s cartoon – No Money For The Arts – was published in the New Yorker on 8 July perfectly articulated the very real challenge that now face millions of people around the world who work in the Arts with its headline: “I’m sorry. Now that everyone’s home reading, watching movies, educating themselves, and reflecting on the meaning of life, there’s just no money for the arts.” We talk about her Lockdown experience in the US, the evolution of art as a virtual expression and expression post COVID, possible survival tips from her Grandmother’s story in her book the Flying Couch and review the possibilities for the US in the next few months. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/29/amy-kurzweil-no-money-for-the-arts/
In the Music Real E119, Nicki chats with Dave Jackson of Creative Productions who is heading up the Australian contingent of Australian #WeMakeEvents organised by PLASA, the lead international membership body for those who supply technologies and services to the event and entertainment industries. And right now, we are at RED ALERT to raise awareness of Australia’s thousands of highly skilled industry professionals, all of whom have had no work since March with little likelihood of restarting well into 2021. Dave recently appeared in the media recently alongside Scott Morrison to announce funding being given to the industry as a lifeline yet the funding did not apply to his business. Without additional support for the supply chain, Australia is in danger of losing its global position as a world leader in world-class events. Moreover, all of our incredible creatives and technicians could lose their livelihoods for good. Dave and his team are currently working on industry protests https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/25/dave-jackson-launches-the-wemakeevents-campaign/
In the Music Real E118, Nicki chats with Sophie Kirov from new agency, Lost Motel, about the Australian Live Music Business Council recently launched as a response to the Lockdowns and impact on the Australian Music Industry. We talk about the newly formed council and how it came about and what its objectives are. Australian Live Music Business Council supports Australian artists and the Australian small businesses who support them! The ALMBC is the united voice of the thousands of small to medium businesses that operate our live music industry; advancing and promoting the many economic, social and cultural benefits of contemporary music. The ALMBC seeks to protect and represent the best interest of the Live Music Sector. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/25/sophie-kirov-introduces-the-australian-live-music-business-council
In the Music Real E117, Nicki chats with Rae Bonney Program Manager for Entertainment Assist, an organisation whose vision is about supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the Australian Entertainment Industry. Entertainment Assist has united with members of the Industry to develop free mental health videos to support thousands of members of the industry during the COVID-19 crisis. We talk about Rae’s program called Intermission which is tailored specifically to address the needs of the Australian entertainment industry. Thanks to the lockdown and its impact on the Music and associated industries, we look at change in our industries as a whole in terms of how we work with arts practitioners in commercial productions, levelling up wellness management strategies for Artist Managers and Agents and tips for Artists to navigate their way through to recovery post COVID. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/25/rae-bonney-entertainment-assist-supporting-wellbeing-of-the-australian-entertainment-industr
In the Music Real E116, Nicki chats with Jacky Daniels and Chef Bernhard Oehrli, global Hospitality Professionals and owner operators of the beautiful stunning Hotel Gloria located in Beatenberg Switzerland. We talk lockdown in Switzerland, how they pivoted and innovated, current restrictions and what recovery looks like now in Europe in terms of second waves and new tourism trends as a result of COVID. Tourism in Europe during the summer season is a key economic keystone and it was interesting to hear about the impact of the lockdowns in Europe. Lovely chat from the most spectacular scenery in Europe. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/24/lockdown-for-hotel-gloria-beatenberg-switzerland
In the Music Real E114, Nicki chats with Paul Saintilan CEO for Music Australia and editor and primary co-author of the recently released book Musicians & Addiction: Research and Recovery Stories. Paul talks about how the book came about and how industry can level up with additional strategies and practices starting with an Industry Wish List call to action in the book. The book is an exceptional resource talking about Pressures created by Performance Anxiety, or to be Creative and Original, Social, Cultural and Workplace Pressures to drink or use drugs, Dealing with Identity Issues – sub cultural – Public and Personal Persona, the Pressure of Fame and Celebrity, Imposter Syndrome and ways to manage the Emotional Turbulence generated by these Pressures. Highly recommend this book. Check it out below. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/23/paul-saintilan-musicians-and-addiction-book-released-during-lockdown/
Connect with Paul Saintilan, Music Australia and the Musicians and Addition book:
https://musicaustralia.org.au/
https://www.musicianaddiction.org/
In the Music Real E115, Nicki chats with Australian blues rock singer songwriter and guitarist, Nathan Cavaleri who recently featured in the Australian Story – Growing Pains. We hear about Nathan’s lockdown experience, his plans for his tour later this year and more importantly explore his journey into his own mental health and some wisdom to help others to navigate their way through this event while exploring the silver linings and positive vision for the future recovery of our industry. Demons, including new single Before You Check Out,is out now. For tour information and tickets head to nathancavaleri.com. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/20/nathan-cavaleri-what-can-i-change-on-the-inside/
In the Music Real E113, Nicki chats with Kelly Wood the Director for Entertainment, Crew and Sport for the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, an organisation dedicated to empowering Australia’s creative professionals. We look at the Great Australian Binge initiative and how important it is to maintain a high level of Australian content on our screens. Without Australian content how do we tell our story to the world. Without Australian productions thousands of crew lose their jobs. This episode is a call to action for fans to help us to continue to tell Australian stories. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/19/kelly-wood-and-meaa-supporting-the-great-australian-binge
In the Music Real E112, Nicki chats with Stuart Coupe Award winning Australian Music Journalist, whose books about the Australian Music Industry include ‘The Promoters: Inside stories from the Australian rock industry’, ‘Gudinski: The Godfather of Australian Rock’, ‘Tex’, by Tex Perkins, ‘Roadies: The Secret History of Australian Rock’n’roll’, and the recently released ‘Paul Kelly: The Man, The Music And The Life In Between’. Stuart is currently a presenter on Sydney radio stations 2SER and FBI Radio. We deep dive into the various mechanisms of our industry thanks to his diverse experiences in the industry: author, band manager, promoter, publicist and label founder to discuss how we may pivot and innovate post COVID. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/19/award-winning-australian-music-journalist-stuart-coupe-talks-all-things-lockdown-and-recovery/?preview_id=4112&preview_nonce=afa02bd1e2&preview=true&_thumbnail_id=4110
In the Music Real E110, Nicki chats with Samantha Morris an award winning Conservation and environmentalist who is one of Australia’s most proactive Music Industry champions. Samantha is a co-founder and director of the Gold Coast’s independent street magazine called Blank Gold Coast and she is the Founder of the Gold Coast Music Awards. We talk about what it was like to host the Gold Coast Music Awards online in April early on in the lockdown as well as ways that so many entrepreneurs got super creative and leveraged opportunities from the lockdown. Samantha is in the process of writing a book called Sounds of Paradise’ which will provide a historical snapshot of the venues, bands and personalities who shaped the Gold Coast cultural heart. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/17/samantha-morris-and-the-innovative-creative-opportunities-of-the-lockdown/
In the Music Real E110, Nicki chats with Sam Cook, multi award winning, multi-talented arts and entertainment professional based in LA. Sam is the Founder and CEO, KMBA Agency and has just joined the board of Australia Music Alliance. Sam is a cross-artform practitioner, educator, arts manager and leader in Indigenous Arts, was the founder of Australia’s Blak History Month, a director of The Dreaming Festival and a programmer of the Woodford Folk Festival. We talk about what life is like for her in LA, not being able to return to Australia, opportunities in the industry as a result of the forced lockdowns and the role that the Australia Music Alliance will play in the recovery of our industry across the Pacific. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/14/sam-cook-joins-the-australia-music-alliance-and-supports-australian-artists-in-the-us
Connect with Sam Cook and the Australia Music Alliance:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-cook-2ab0b118/
https://www.australianmusicalliance.org/
https://www.facebook.com/australianmusicalliance
https://www.instagram.com/australianmusicalliance/
https://twitter.com/ozmusicalliance
AMA Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1AuuC0gEYXhS9tnKGJmuAq?si=2IYQUdsJSvymGRdUISSpAw
In the Music Real E109, Nicki chats with Mike Snell, Australian Actor, Dancer, Performer, star of the Network Ten Television series I will Survive and whose resume reads like a trip to Broadway with roles in Hugh Jackman’s Boy From Oz, Miss Saigon, Wicked, Hairspray, Legally Blonde, Hello Dolly, Aladdin and Strictly Ballroom. Mike is currently in his second lockdown. We talk about the impact of these lockdowns on productions, cast, crew, all the people behind the scenes making it happen with Mike sharing a special message of hope and support for everyone who has lost so much since March this year. It’s a real and raw chat about his own mental health challenges with while sharing some personal strategies to help get him through to a post COVID recovery. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/14/mike-snell-our-voices-need-to-be-heard/
Connect with Mike Snell:
https://www.facebook.com/mike.snell.121
https://www.instagram.com/mikesnell__/
https://fit2move.com.au/team/mike-snell/
In the Music Real E108, Nicki chats with the Resilience Tour team. Tudor Vasile, founder of the Mental Awareness Foundation, Manny Kyriakidis, founder of The Pushworth Group and Australian Country Music Star, Jade Holland. 2020 has changed the lives of millions of people across the planet. After months of lockdowns and second waves, there is a growing fear of a looming mental health crisis in Australia.
To shine a light on local communities throughout Queensland, Mental Awareness Foundation have joined forces with Australian country music star, Jade Holland and The Pushworth Group to produce a Queensland Resilience Tour. To be launched on 30 August at the Regatta Hotel, the tour heads to Toowoomba, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Yeppoon, and Ipswich.
The Resilience Tour will feature exclusive performances by Jade Holland as the 2020 ambassador for the Mental Awareness Foundation and is an invitation for everyone in each region to come out to the show, bring a mate or two, reconnect to your local community, enjoy great live music and reignite that spirit of resilience that we Aussies are known for.
To celebrate Mental Health month in October, the tour ends with Jade opening the annual Walk for Awareness in Captain Burke Park, Brisbane on Sunday 11 October.
This year’s COVID SAFE event will be a call to action to people across the state to participate, connect, be real, be raw and support each other in the community. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/13/jade-holland-and-the-resilient-spirit-of-queenslanders-on-tour/
Connect with Mental Awareness Foundation and Jade Holland on The Resilience Tour:
Mental Awareness Foundation https://www.mentalawarenessfoundation.org/
Jade Holland: https://jadeholland.com/
The Pushworth Group: https://pushworth.com/
In the Music Real E107, Nicki chats with Angus McPherson Angus McPherson Managing Director For Diageo Australia here to talk about the “Raising the Bar” initiative which is Diageo’s new global programme to support pubs and bars in their recovery as they welcome customers back in their venues. We hear about how the Diageo Bar Academy will offer any bar, anywhere in the world, free access to digital training and practical support. In addition, the $100 million “Raising the Bar” fund will provide targeted investment to help neighbourhood pubs and bars in many cities to re-open your doors and promote safe socialising. These cities include New York, London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, Mexico City, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Mumbai, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, Sydney and beyond. To get involved with Raising The Bar and Diageo. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/09/angus-mcpherson-and-diageo-raising-the-bar-to-help-bars-recover-after-lockdown/
In the Music Real E106, Nicki chats with Howard Duggan who is publisher of scenestr, Australia’s largest street press group. Howard started the company in 1993 and has grown it into nationwide digital mag publications, TV plus The Blender. Howard talks about his lockdown story, how the team continued their great work remotely. We chatted about the current chaos in the Music Sectors across the globe due to the pandemic and subsequent restrictions on public gatherings. Howard shared his very wise philosophy about how we work our way through this pandemic experience out to the other side. Great chat. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/08/09/howard-duggan-of-scenestr-chimes-in-on-the-lockdown/
In the Music Real E98, my guest host is Buzz Bidstrup and together we catch up with John Prior of The Association of Australian Musicians which is a forum for independent musicians to discuss and develop industry reform. John Prior is an Australian musician, composer and producer recognized for his work with Matt Finish, Adrian Belew (King Crimson), Mick Taylor (The Rolling Stones) John is the owner and director of Mammal Music Pty Ltd audio/video production company and Unity Gain Studios He has also produced a number of works for film, television, theatre and advertising, gaining an Australian Guild of Screen Composers Nomination for orchestral composition and production. In 2013 John formed The Association of Australian Musicians (AM) and AIMA, an online forum for Australian musicians managed by AM, with more than 11,900 members in 2019. Since 2014, John is also a co-founder and active member of APRA’s Resolution Pathways Dispute Resolution Committee and Peer Review Committee, developing the peer review system for 100,000 APRA members to seek advice and resolve disputes, and winning the Australian Disputes Centre’s ADR Corporate Team of the Year award in 2016 for innovative dispute resolution. Since 2017, John has taught music and produced student recordings regularly at Dulwich High School of Visual Arts and Design sponsored by Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL. In July 2020, John submitted his AM Australian Music Plan to the Federal Government for consideration. Proposed reforms include an increase in Australian Content in Australian Media, the extension of copyright in perpetuity, reform royalty collection agencies APRA and PPCA to represent the 99% of members who are not signed to major publishers and labels, the creation of an Australian Music National Playlist and interactive charts listing all Australian music old and new, searchable by artist, song, album, producer, studio, label, publisher, genre, age, the establishment of an Australian Music National Touring Circuit connecting clubs, venues and artists, with online booking facilities with the creation of Australian Music Community Music Program providing music teaching, mentoring, recording and performance opportunities, and community orchestras and choirs to encourage greater participation from the general public; connecting music teachers and performers with local councils, music and musical instrument importers and retailers, music venues, Australian Music Festivals, Clubs Australia, community and commercial media and the general public. Get involved with the reform and contact John below. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/23/john-prior-lockdown-reform-for-australian-independent-musicians/
Connect with John Prior and AIMA:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/australianindependentmusiciansassociation/
In the Music Real E89, and my guest is Brad Hosking, producer at Blind Boys Studio and Senior Lecturer for Bachelor of Contemporary Music at TAFE Queensland/Southern Cross University on the Gold Coast. Brad is leading the Business of Music a program that has been organised by the Sector Development of The City of Gold Coast. At a time like this never before experienced in history, the Business of Music program will greatly assist those in the Industry wanting to level up so they can meet the demands of this new unknown post Covid world. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/brad-hosking-delivering-city-of-gold-coast-business-of-music
Connect with Brad Hosking and the City of Gold Coast’s Music Action Plan:
https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/music-action-plan-the-business-of-music-49109.html
https://www.facebook.com/blindboystudios/
In the Music Real E105, Nicki chats with Aria Award winning Australia Music Artist Tyrone Noonan released his new single Black Dog in June this year. I wanted to have a chat about the story behind this song. It’s a great song and upbeat and quirky – uplifting with its poignant message YOU DON’T OWN ME. Very effective message hinting at a time honored mental health strategy with “Old Ty” locked in an old shed and the “New Ty” facing up to “Old Ty” in the shed, letting go and breaking free,” Ty chats about how this song came about. We explore about how Music Artists across the globe are doing right now with the “black dog”, the rate of suicides in our industry and look at opening of the pandora box. This chat gets raw and honest and takes us on a real journey through what is facing music artists in Australia right now thanks to the decimation of our industry because of lockdown. It’s a great chat where Ty takes us down a rabbit hole exploring healing alternatives, the culture of the masculine and the feminine, history, politics, appreciation of arts in this country, mental health, the energy in this land of Australia and explores options to get Australians into meditation so we can begin to tackle some of these endemic problems. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/26/tyrone-noonan-talking-black-dog-single-and-the-philosophy-of-global-recovery/
In the Music Real E104, Nicki chats with Adam Glezer, a Consumer Advocate who established the “Flight Centre Class Action Australia,” Facebook Group, to give stranded travellers a voice in the midst of the lockdown which cost hundreds of thousands of people around the world their hard earned savings as a result. The Travel Industry was the first wave. The Entertainment industries were the second wave. It will take years for these industries to return to normal whatever that is deemed after 2020. We depend on companies like Flight Centre to move Music Artists across the country and the globe. We need hotels, rental cars, flights and tourist destinations. This is an important part of our societal culture and structure. Adam talks about action that consumers can take to recover their Travel costs for flights and holidays unable to be taken thanks to the Lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/26/adam-glezer-riding-the-first-wave-of-travel-cancellations-thanks-to-lockdown/
In the Music Real E103, Nicki chats with Tal Chalak, a Promoter with a long career of close to 40 years in show business – with a particular emphasis on live music in Australia. Currently Tal’s focus in entertainment is specifically in partnership agreements, asset acquisitions and licensing. Tal has developed a unique development formula which he uses in his independent live music roster. Together we explore the impact that the COVID lockdowns have had from a venue and promoter perspective as Tal offers guidance and tips for indie artists wanting to build their brand in the live scene post COVID. And more importantly, Tal highlights the incredible opportunity that these lockdowns have afforded many aspects of this sector. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/26/tal-chalak-shaking-things-up-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E102, Nicki chats with Jake Challenor who is the editor of The Music Network & Radio Today, host of the Music Daily podcast and Inside Entertainment on Ticker TV. Jake reports on all things Entertainment across the world and has a birds eye view of the Australian Music Industry as a result. We examine how people’s connection to music on Social Media has decreased without the availability of Festival tickets. We review the chaos, the funding, the data, streaming and what the future looks like for Music across the globe. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/26/jake-challenor-the-music-network-spotlight-on-the-lockdown-effect
In the Music Real E101, Nicki chats with Brendan Christou the CEO for the Royal Queensland Show otherwise known affectionately as the Ekka. Queensland’s largest and most loved annual event, attracting on average 400,000 people. Run by the RNA for 10 days in August and staged at its original birthplace, the Brisbane Showgrounds, the Ekka brings the country and city together for a true celebration of agriculture. This year in 2020, the Ekka has been cancelled. It is just the third time in the Ekka’s 143-year history that the show has been cancelled. It was previously cancelled in 1919 due to the Spanish Flu epidemic and in 1942 when the grounds were used as a World War II staging depot. However instead we will be treated to a series of On Line Channels like the Blue Ribbon Baking Series, Meet a Farmer, Paws and Claws and Unplugged to name just a few. We will also be able to access Tastes of Ekka featuring Pop Up Food Locations where people can still buy their strawberry sundae. Brendan shares the Ekka lockdown story through the mammoth task of cancelling Brisbane’s most popular annual event. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/26/brendan-christou-cancelling-the-ekka-for-the-3rd-time-in-143-years
In the Music Real E100, I talk with Australian Actor, Ben Steel, who is also the Director of the groundbreaking documentary The Show Must Go On which exposed the mental health challenges for so many people in the Entertainment Industry. I’ve been telling this story since March – giving people a platform to share their voice and story to create a big picture perspective on every single human that has been impacted in our industry through no fault of their own – big or small – front of house or behind the scenes. Ben’s story shines a spotlight on the people who give up so much to be a light in the lives of those they entertain. We hear about how lockdown impacted his plans for 2020 as he shares his strategies for healthy mental health during lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/25/ben-steel-the-show-must-go-on
In the Music Real E99, we catch up with Brad Buckley and Debi Martin who set up The Pub With No Fear during Lockdown. Like so many Music Artists, when lockdown happened, Brad and Debi were in shock. But they quickly went into action and created The Pub With No Fear Live Streaming channel as a way for local artists to stay connected, play live streaming, perhaps earn some money thanks to tips and donations while keeping a local musician culture active. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/23/brad-buckley-debi-martin-set-up-the-pub-with-no-fear/
In the Music Real E97, I chat with Lynelle Leighton a veteran of the Australian Music Show scene and founder of the ABBALive show The most booked out and by far successful ABBA show production in Australia – 18 years and still going strong. We hear about how lockdown impacted the ABBA Live show and the very real challenges that face music artists across the globe who have had their livelihood taken away from them through no fault of their own. This interview is a call to action for Artists to connect with politicians to get their voices heard. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/23/lynelle-leighton-abbalive-cancelling-tours-and-shows-thanks-to-lockdown/
In the Music Real E96, I chat with Katie Edmiston, the Manager for Regional Arts Services for the Creative Arts Alliance a leading arts industry body working to strengthen the creative and cultural sectors across regional Queensland. CAA delivers the Regional Arts Services Network initiative in South East Queensland through partnerships with six local councils, Gympie, Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Somerset and Redlands. Katie talked about what it was like in lockdown keeping the website and social media up to date with a massive resource of free on line courses, funding opportunities, news and updates. We hear about the Plug in Mentorship, Club Create and start Grant Applications. RPAC Live EOIS are now open. All links below. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/19/katie-edmiston-creating-arts-opportunities-during-lockdown/
In the Music Real E95, I chat with Leanne de Souza who is a Non-Executive Director of Nightlife Music, a trustee of the Queensland Performing Arts Trust (QPAC) and co-founder of the Rock and Roll Writers Festival. Recently, Leanne was engaged as a Curatorial Advisor for the Museum of Brisbane’s “High Rotation” exhibition and was listed as the 14th most influential person in the music industry for 2019. Leanne is a life-member of Q Music, and a long-term local advocate for contemporary music, artist managers and gender equity in the Australian music industry. I talk to her about “Kickstarting Australia’s Nightlife” program launched by Nightlife Music which supports both venues and artists while continuing to offer fee relief. Nightlife Music is one of Australia’s music business success stories starting in 1989 now servicing thousands of clients across all industries from hospitality, fitness, retail, accommodation, leisure, dining, cruising, education and entertainment. Leanne also talks about the latest ACCC determination to reauthorise APRA so make sure you check out her Fair Play articles in the links below. And make sure you check out the Australasian Performing Right Association Ltd application for revocation of authorisations A91367 – A91375 and substitution of new authorisation A1000433—determination https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/19/leanne-de-souza-kickstarting-australias-nightlife/
In the Music Real E94, I catch up with Undercovers founder, Josh Kiff. Undercovers, is a new podcast by Vibe Machine Media that features interviews with the Artists of some of the most classic and iconic album covers of our time. I first met Josh Kiff when he was working with Moshtix when we were producing the Caxton Street Seafood and Wine Festival. It was obvious from the start that Josh was what we would call a super music fan. We have this very human need to gather together, connect and celebrate while listening to a live music show – and as a result of lockdown, this is now impossible. So in this time, where lockdown has changed the lives of people who worked in the Events, Hospitality, and music industries around the globe, Josh is helping music fans around the globe to continue to celebrate the music. And I wanted to know, from a super music fan perspective, how lockdown will leverage a shift the culture of the Music Industry. Make sure you check out the Undercovers podcast. The entire series is available to stream now at Vibe Machine Media’s official website. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/19/josh-kiff-is-undercover-s-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E93, I talk with Sean Foran who is Head of the Department of Contemporary Music at the JMC Academy in Brisbane. JMC are Celebrating 35 years in education, and remains Australia’s leading Creative Industries institution, offering Degrees and Diplomas in Music, Songwriting, Audio Engineering, Film and Television Production, Entertainment Business Management, Digital Design, 3D Animation and Game Design. Sean fills us in on how JMC very quickly had to adapt its music programs to online courses. We talk about what it will be like for JMC students looking forward into a future after the greatest challenge in the Creative Arts Industry in Modern History. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/sean-foran-jmc-academy-on-line-classes-during-lockdown/
In the Music Real E92, we catch up with a blast from the past, Justin Van Stom. Starting out in the music business in Australia in 1985 at age 21, Justin van Stom has had a remarkable career. He set up and ran rooArt Records with Chris Murphy and Sebastian Chase, signing artists like RatCat and Wendy Matthews. And right when we first opened our music agency, Justin established Apollo Artist Management representing Def FX + Grinspoon. As a manager and mentor, Justin has steered the careers of many of Australia’s top recording and performing artists including 28 Days, Sarah McLeod + Sneaky Sound System. Artist Management, Music Publishing, Music Business Lecturer, Label Manager and Owner – Justin’s astute understanding of business has given hundreds of Australian music artists the benefit of his vast music experiences. It is intelligent business voices like Justin’s that will help our industry to recover from the 2020 Lockdowns. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/justin-van-stom-music-manager-and-mentor-talking-lockdown/
In the Music Real E91 I talk with Tina Harris CEO of Business On Demand and the CEO of Lah Lah Productions. Tina’s Business background spans over a decade of running national live touring and executive producing television and events. She works extensively as a teacher and performer and has a strong background in marketing and working with women in business. Tina is one of the most popular music artists (albeit with a much younger than usual audience) in Australia thanks to her work as Lah Lah. We hear from Tina about the challenges of cancelling a scheduled Lah Lah tour thanks to lockdown. She also shared about her mentoring work with entrepreneurs where she teaches creative strategies. Right now, thanks to lockdown, where so many businesses need a digital platform, Tina and her team are delivering training to cover everything you need to know about video production. Make sure you reach out to Tina at her website below and click on this link https://www.tinaharris.com.au/must-enter-womens-business-awards-2020 for her free download. And of course, our very special guest host, Lah Lah’s biggest fan, Master Archie Dickson, asked the most important question of all. Big thanks to Tina for talking to us today! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/tina-harris-business-on-demand-during-lah-lah-lockdown/
In the Music Real E90, we catch up with Jeff Halley, Manager at Monster Artist Management and house booker for many of Perth’s most iconic live music venues including the very recently opened Magnet House. Jeff has such a great unique and wise perspective that he shares about the changes that lockdown has made to the Australian music industry long term. We hear about how lockdown impacted his tours and live shows plus his thoughts on the post COVID live music scene throughout Australia given that Perth has had a very different COVID experience in comparison to the rest of Australia. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/jeff-halley-a-very-wise-voice-from-the-west/
In the Music Real E87, and our guest is English-born, Australian vocalist, musician, and songwriter, Grace Knight, the mainstay of Australian Indie pop group Eurogliders. Grace rose to fame in the 1990 TV series, Come in Spinner which jettisoned her highly successful career as a jazz singer. With decades of top charting songs and tour acclaim, Grace also released a very personal and courageous book in 2010 Pink Suit for a Blue Day. We had a chat with Grace who is now in her second lockdown in Melbourne. Fingers are crossed for her scheduled tours later this year for her Solo and Eurogliders shows. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/grace-knight-the-second-lockdown/
In the Music Real E88, and my guest is Libby Lincoln, a woman who, It has been said is leading the Arts and Cultural Transformation on the Gold Coast. Considered to be one of the country’s most experienced arts leaders, Libby has curated and managed major arts projects with the Brisbane Festival, Queensland Music Festival, Expressions Dance Company and the Out of the Box Festival. Libby is currently a custodian of the City of Gold Coast’s Culture Strategy 2023 and she shares how the City of Gold Coast is supporting live music through Music Business programs to give a helping hand to artists equipping them for a post covid much changed music landscape. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/libby-lincoln-city-of-gold-coast-culture-strategy-2023
In the Music Real E86, and my guest is Jo Thomas Creative Director and CEO for Metro Arts in Brisbane. JFK said “The life of the arts, far from being an interruption, a distraction, in the life of the nation, is close to the centre of a nation’s purpose – and is a test to the quality of a nation’s civilization.” Metro Arts plays an important role in the culture of our city as it champions contemporary art forms. It offers development programs as well as co presenting opportunities. In addition to the artistic programs Metro Arts also supports the wider artistic community by offering incredibly cool artistic spaces around the city for the use of creative businesses. Jo also Won the Telstra Business Awards Queensland Businesswomen of the Year for 2020. We hear about Metro Arts in lockdown, opportunities that have emerged as a result and plans to accommodate this new Arts ecosystem in the post COVID world. A big shot out to anyone wishing to join the Art Starters Donor Group who generously support the Metro Arts Creative Development Program. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/jo-thomas-metro-arts-telstra-business-awards-queensland-businesswomen-of-the-year-for-2020
In the Music Real E85, Nichola Burton speaks with Scott Hutchinson, Chairman of Mutli Award winning Hutchinson Builders. At the 14th annual Lord Mayor of Brisbane’s Business Awards last October, Scott was awarded a special Lifetime Achievement Award for keeping Brisbane’s music scene thriving thanks to his advocacy and investment in The Triffid and The Fortitude Music Hall. It would have been impossible for me to talk about the Music Industry at this time in history without acknowledging a man whose legacy has changed the face of the Brisbane Music Industry. As a board member and patron for Q Music, Scott is above all else, a music fan, and it was great to hear his thoughts on what’s great about live music in Brisbane. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/18/scott-hutchinson-vision-for-brisbane-live-music-venues
In the Music Real E69, our guest is Marcus Godinho who is the CEO for FareShare – a charity that rescues food that would otherwise go to waste, cooks it into nutritious meals and delivers to soup vans, homeless shelters, refuges and community food banks. We have been speaking with business owners around the globe during the lockdown and giving them a voice and a platform to share their story. Lockdown has been brutal and cruel for business around Australia with many people losing their jobs and livelihoods. Marcus talks about how the Victorian Government, Woolworths and ALH Group came together to deliver over half a million meals in May through FareShare. Thanks to travel restrictions, many international students were stranded in Brisbane with no jobs and no access to financial support. Many families across the world would be so incredibly grateful to FareShare, for keeping their kids fed at a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. So while millions of people across AUSTRALIA suddenly stopped, the FareShare team had to level up to meet a greater demand pretty much straight away.
In the Music Real E84, we speak with Cr Vicki Howard, Councilor for Central Ward which incorporates the Brisbane CBD, the Valley and inner-city suburbs. Vicki is Chair of Community, Arts and Nighttime Economy Committee. Lord Mayor Adrian Scrinner formed the committee to address the impact that the COVID lockdowns would have on Brisbane’s vibrant night time economy. The Brisbane City Council has been highly responsive in its support of local businesses and especially those in the Events, Hospitality and Music sectors. Vicki talks about the plan and vision for the outcome of this committee. We talk about the great BCC initiative for young emerging music artists The QUBE EFFECT and Vicki announces the winner of the 2020 award KATANAK – huge congratulations to them as well as to Brisbane City Council for creating more opportunities for your artists to be seen and heard. Brisbane is just starting to re emerge and it was wonderful to hear about so many activities happening across the city thanks to the support of the Brisbane City Council. Big thanks to Vicki in her guidance to Live Music Artists who perhaps cannot go out and perform to their full capacity just yet. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/10/cr-vicki-howard-chair-of-the-community-arts-and-night-time-economy-committee/
In the Music Real E83, Michael and Nicki catch up with Rob Rhodes, the host of The Musicians Inn Video Podcast. Each week, special guest musicians and entertainers will join in a panel discussion about all things music and musical! Rob is a long time Australian Music Artist and the podcast began as a way for him to stay connected during lockdown. It has evolved into all things music taking Artists on a real time journey into aspects of life as a musician. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/08/rob-rhodes-checking-into-the-musicians-inn-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E82, My guest today is Dr Christina Ballico who is the research fellow on the Project Making music work - the findings of which were released to the public this week.
In the Music Real E82, My guest today is Dr Christina Ballico who is the research fellow on the Project Making music work – the findings of which were released to the public this week. This research project conducted over 3-4 yearswas led by Queensland Conservatorium Research Centre, Griffith University, with industry partners, Australia Council for the Arts. Making Music Work mapped the creative, social, cultural, and economic realities of the portfolio music career through a study of over 600 Australian musicians. Christina talks about how the industry itself could possible best equip Live Music Artists for the future for this industry ecosystem. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/08/dr-christina-ballico-making-music-work/
In the Music Real E81, the Pushy team chat with Australian Singer Songwriter Dean Ray whose single “Simple Things” was included as part of the soundtrack for a groundbreaking Australian film, “The Show Must Go On” (produced and directed by Ben Steel), dedicated to raising awareness for the incredible struggles by Artists in the Australian Performing Arts communities. Dean is an advocate for Mental Health in the Music Industry and had to cancel his Australian tour as a result of the COVID lockdowns. His latest release Don’t Give Up On Me is out now with his team planning to tour Australian later this year. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/07/dean-ray-when-the-tours-are-cancelled/
In the Music Real E80, my guest today is Joel Edmondson CEO for Queensland Music Festival a significant part of our State’s Culture. Since its inception, Queensland Music Festival has grown from a biennial state-wide festival of music, to a creator of annual festivals and events, producing over 800 live music experiences for the 2019 Festival alone. Joel, a long time insightful leader in the Australian Arts sector, shares his vision for the Music Industry as we wait to hear what Queensland Music Festival has in store for 2021 as it continues to deliver high quality musicals experience to Queenslanders while connecting different communities across the state. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/joel-edmondson-of-queensland-music-festival-connecting-community-through-music
In the Music Real E79, we speak with Matt Murtagh from The Lockdown Lounge. With the shutdown of the hospitality and music industries, Matt and Steve created a space for musicians to be able to reach out and connect with their fans, friends, families, locals, and colleagues. This was a space where they can have acts come, perform on a REAL stage, play under lights, have production, have that “gig feeling”, know that people are out there were watching. The Lockdown Lounge created a great way for Live Music Artists to keeping Gigging and stay connected to their fans! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/matt-murtagh-in-the-lockdown-lounge/
In the Music Real E78, we speak with Rod Hill from world renown Sirromet Winery, located in the stunning Mt Cotton just between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It is one of Australia’s most spectacular venues with a year round calendar of events – weddings, functions, wine education, Supagolf and the incredible game change for live music fans in Queensland, A Day on the Green. As a venue, they have hosted iconic music artists like Elton John and Cold Chisel offering music fans not just a concert but a sensory experience just being in your State of the Art Winery with million dollar views. Lockdown has meant that Tough Mudder in August has been cancelled with a question mark over the planned Rod Stewart concert in November. Like large venues across the globe, Sirromet is changing the way they operate to be COVID safe. We cannot wait to get back to Sirromet to sit on the lawn and look out at that divine landscape while listening to great music. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/rod-hill-of-sirromet-winery-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E77, my guest is Cara Robinson from the Internationally acclaimed Act Hat Fitz & Cara. What I find fascinating with Fitz and Cara is that they have carved out their own career on their own terms. They have built a thriving music business outside of the standard trajectory. Which I love. The act is a unique combination of folk, roots and gospel blues – something we don’t hear often enough in Australia. Up until recently Fitzy and Cara spent most of their time touring the world, across Europe, over to Canada and are well known faces on the Australian Festival circuit. Rhythms / Rolling Stone said about Hat Fitz and Cara – “Simple, powerful, full of the inherent realism we’ve come to expect from these two, a stellar effort.” https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/cara-robinson-from-hat-fitz-and-cara-lockdown-in-australia/
In the Music Real E76, we catch up with Chris O Brien a house booker from the Sooki Lounge in Victoria and is the General Manager of Touring for Destroy All Lines and General Manager at Good Things Festival and Director for What A Vibe Management. We hear about the multi layered challenges for a Music Industry business dealing with Tours, Festivals and how the logistics of COVID restrictions as well as infection control will determine how 2020 will look for the live industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/chris-obrien-destroy-all-lines-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E75, the Pushy team catch up with Biggy P, one of Queensland’s biggest and most soulful voices in the Live Music scene. What is lockdown like for someone who usually gigs 4 nights a week every week? What happens when the shows stop and the money stops? It is the story of the everyday hard working live music artists whose lives completely changed in one day. Biggy is part of the #emergingyoungartistswatch roster. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/biggy-p-adapting-to-live-in-lockdown-with-no-shows/
In the Music Real E74, our very special guest is Glen Young from PBR – Professional Bull Riders in Australia. PBR are a supporter of live music providing employment for Live Music Artists each year and hosts events which bring a lot of people together around the country and like thousands of operators around the world, you have had to scramble postpone and reschedule events that were scheduled. 2 weeks ago, we watched tens of thousands of protestors walk closely together while 20 people only are allowed in pubs and clubs. It’s certainly a challenging time for Sporting Clubs like PBR who are making applications to return to their usual events. Hear how PBR had to pivot in order to work within COVID 19 guidelines while maintaining their event schedules. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/glen-young-of-pbr-not-much-bull-to-ride-during-lockdown
In the Music Real E73, our very special guest is Music Producer, Musician and Music Lecturer, George Ahas Lignos. Michael Geeves is a guest Moderator and we hear about what George has been recording during lockdown. Bringing his European passion to his craft, George shares some vital tips to artists wanting to record their songs. The key is to be open and be willing to take yourself to the edge to try something new to see what may develop. This is a great interview for anyone wanting to prep for their recording sessions. Greece’s loss is definitely Australia’s gain. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/06/george-ahas-lignos-producing-the-next-hit-in-lockdown/
We are speaking with people around the world in Events, Hospitality and Music Industries and today in the Music Real E72, our very special guest is World renown 5-star restauranteur Johnny Gambaro. The Gambaro Group have been instrumental in their contribution to Queensland Tourism as they run several multi award winning restaurants around Brisbane. The Gambaro family founded Australia’s biggest community Festival, the iconic Caxton Street Festival, 3 decades ago. A highlight of the Queensland Tourism Event Calendar, this event raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities throughout the years and this is something that John and his family are famous for. This is the hallmark for the Gambaro Group – red carpet events, bringing people together and raising much needed funds for charities across the state. Gambaro’s Seafood Restaurant and Hotel are situated in the Caxton Street Entertainment Precinct snuggled underneath Suncorp Stadium. We hear how Gambaro’s continued their high level of service during lockdown in their Gambaro’s To Go initiative. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/04/john-gambaro-of-the-gambaro-group-working-together-towards-recovery/
In the Music Real E71, my guest is Vanessa Hutley from Music Rights Australia, an organisation that protects the creative interests of artists within the Australian music community through educational initiatives, government lobbying and the protection of artists’ copyrights. At this time where most artists have live streamed throughout lockdown, its important to understand the consequences of this in terms of ownership of your music as a result of sharing on free platforms like Facebook. Make sure you check out the Resources on the Music Rights Australia website and have a listen to this interview with Vanessa to better understand how to protect your creative rights. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/04/vanessa-hutley-music-rights-australia-protecting-your-creative-rights/
In the Music Real E70, my guest is Patrick Nolan, Artistic Director and CEO of Opera Queensland who launched An Aria A Day – a wonderful way to keep the music going and stay connected to its audience. Patrick himself was stuck in another state just as lockdown began and it is inspiring to hear how the company was able to pivot, innovate and reorganize into a digital space to keep the music playing with artists around the globe stepping up to participate. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/04/patrick-nolan-of-opera-queensland-with-an-aria-a-day
In the Music Real E68, Nicki interviews Dr Dominic Smorra. Based in Calder, New Jersey, Dominic is a highly acclaimed Network Spinal Analysis Chiropractor who runs the Smorra Holistic Family Chiropractic practice. Dr. Smorra is NJ and PA Chiropractic Board Certified since 1994 and is a member of Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (Charter), Association for Network Care, Palmer College of Chiropractic International Alumni Association and Seton Hall Alumni Associations. While working in New York for the past decade, Nicki was lucky enough to get to know the city’s true cultural identity thanks to Dominic’s introduction. A gifted wellness specialist, this is one man who understands the psychology and culture of the Super Fan like no one else. Those Music Artists wanting to capitalise their time in lockdown to level up, pivot and innovate, this interview about the Super Fan is a must. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/03/dr-dominic-smorra-the-psychology-of-a-super-fan/
In the Music Real E67, our guests are Multi Award Winning International Pop Violinist Virtuoso Martin Lass and Internationally renown Musical Director Inge Verhoef. Now these two Music Artists have achieved something extraordinary. Way before Andre Rieux, Martin and Inge singlehandedly made classical music accessible to a more general audience around the world. On cruise ships in the Mediterranean, Caribbean or the Pacific, in theatres in New York, in Concert Halls in the major cities and in performing arts theatres in the regional areas of Australia and in pubs and clubs around the globe, the classics and contemporary music joined forces. Now for us mostly working in a contemporary music market, to get a young artist on stage and perform, it is a long journey that begins for many at the tender age of 5-6, taking piano or violin lessons at school. Martin and Inge have leveraged decades of extensive touring, writing, producing, recording and releasing award winning albums with thousands of performances across the globe to produce Music Education programs where students learn not just the what and the how but the most important aspect of the music industry – the why – which is what sets them on the adventure of being the future music artists of the world. We hear how they adapted in Lockdown to continue teaching their students. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/03/martin-inge-lass-adapting-in-lockdown-to-stay-connected-to-students/
In the Music Real E66, we chat with Chris Patrick, Manager for The Burdekin Theatre in Ayr North Queensland. This theatre is a unique gem for the community and houses one of the finest little proscenium-arch theatres in Australia. It’s a place where a diverse range of events happen – Concerts, Live Shows, conferences, meetings and social functions to weddings and outdoor events. It is an important stop in an Australian tour and has been host to some of the most iconic Artists in Australia. Lockdowns have impacted community venues around Australia and indeed the world and we hear from Chris how the lockdown impacted the community around the theatre. We get real and talk about just how tough this lockdown was for everyone and we look forward to 2021 and 2022 when the theatre will finally get back to normal and bring shows and events back to the Ayr local community. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/03/chris-patrick-burdekin-theatre-its-been-tough-on-everyone-but-we-are-ready-to-return/
In the Music Real E66, we chat with Sean Sennett, a music journalist and singer/songwriter from Brisbane. Collaborating with an array of well known Artists around Australia, Sean has been a prolific releaser of music projects with the latest being The Dangerous Age a collaborative studio album by Australian recording artists Kate Ceberano, + Steve Kilbey , released on 31 January 2020. We met Sean as the publisher/owner/managing editor of Time Off. Writing for music magazines and newspapers such as Rolling Stone, The Word, the Australian and the Age, Sean made music accessible to a broad range of audiences and was a vital marketing conduit for Artists worldwide. Sean’s latest project is a podcast where he talks to Guests around the world in long form conversations where people have the time to talk. When we think music in Australian, we think Sean Sennett so it was great to hear how he was going in lockdown plus his thoughts on how the industry will adapt and innovate as a result. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/03/sean-sennett-time-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E64, the team catches up with Fiona Horne, lead singer of chart-topping Aussie 90’s electro-rock band, Def FX, author several best-selling books on Modern Witchcraft. She is a popular radio and television personality, appearing on many programs around the world and is a commercial pilot, donating her personal time to fly humanitarian aid and animal rescue. Fiona returned to Australia from the Caribbean in the middle of the COVID lockdowns and we spoke to her while she was quarantined in a hotel for 14 days. Suffice to say, we all felt lighter after our chat with her. She is one person who can make any situation magical. We look forward to her next book release. Make sure you check out her website. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/03/fiona-horne-creating-magic-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E63, Pauly from Fat Pizza, Housos, Dumb Criminals, Deadly Down Under and Bogan Hunters, has a break from filming and shares his Rona story from ISO. We hear the real story about what’s going on with this virus. Pauly Gets his Tin Foil hat on and share his theories on Bill Gates, 5G, Escaping from a Chinese Lab, GMOs, Trump’s Re election, the Deep Pan State, the Pizzagate and JFK Jr still being alive. It’s all here in this interview! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/07/02/pauly-fenech-the-real-rona-story/
In the Music Real E59, Nicki and Manny catch up with Trina Massey from the Association of Artist Managers (AAM) which is the peak industry body representing leading music managers in Australia. At a time when the entire music industry has changed shape, AAM is providing resources and guidance for Artist Managers. AAM have recently launched a program in conjunction with Support Act called GIMME SHELTER 2020 – a virtual mental health and wellbeing program tailored for Australian Artist Managers. It’s all about building resilience for the long term. With Mental Health being such a vital focus in our industry, GIMME SHELTER is a landmark program and a key investment in the Australian Music Industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/29/trina-massey-aam-reimagine-other-revenue-streams/
In the Music Real E62, our guest moderator is acclaimed Music Artist, Producer, Artist Manager and CEO for Thumbs Up – Buzz Bidstrup. Our very special guest today is Paul Davies who is the Director of Musicians Australia for the MEAA – the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance – the largest and most established union and industry advocate for Australia’s creative professionals. If you are an Arts or Music worker who felt anger at falling between the cracks in the recent $250M Package announced by the Minister for the Arts, Paul Fletcher, then perhaps this is a good episode to dip into. We talk to Paul about the benefits for musicians to join Musicians Australia, the impact of lockdown on the Music Industry and most importantly, the TRUE value of live music. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/30/paul-davies-of-meaa-and-graham-buzz-bidstrup-what-is-the-value-of-your-live-music-show/
In the Music Real E61, our guest is Jamie McEwen who is the founder of the Events & Entertainment Industry Group which has provided valuable information for Artists and Workers in the Events and Entertainment Industry throughout lockdown. Jamie has been one of the voices that has kept Industry People connected throughout the crisis providing links for Government Assistance – Taxation, On Line Courses, Industry Information. Jamie talks about his experience in lockdown and more importantly his vision for the recovery of our industry. Jamie is about to release an APP called Crew Pond. Make sure you check it out as it will be an invaluable tool when wanting to hire crew for your Tour, Concert or Festival and Event. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/30/jamie-mc-ewen-of-events-and-entertainment-industry-group-launches-crew-pond-just-before-covid-lockdown-hit/
In the Music Real E60, we catch up with Lucy Joseph from the Live Music Office.
As the Program Manager for the Live and Local Strategic Initiative, Lucy works closely with councils across Western Sydney and Regional NSW to deliver live music events which are all about encouraging beneficial relationships between council, community, artists and businesses through live music at a grassroots level. At this time in history, where businesses in the Events, Hospitality and Music industry have been decimated, programs like this, will help to define the industry recovery. We hear Lucy talk about what recovery may look like and what opportunities lie ahead of our industry as a result of this lockdown and the way we have adapted. The Live Music Office website is a treasure trove of Music Industry resources so make sure you check it out. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/29/lucy-joseph-live-music-office-live-and-local-recovery/
In the Music Real E58, Nicki speaks with Rebecca Lamoin, Director - Public Engagement at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). A key artistic and cultural voice in the Queensland Event calendar. For Queenslanders, QPAC offers audiences a wide variety of cultural offerings from many of the world’s leading artistic companies and is the performance home for Queensland’s leading performance arts companies including Opera Queensland, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Ballet, Queensland Theatre Company, and the Queensland Youth Orchestra. We hear about the #qldcultureathome program and how the QPAC team worked around COVID safe logistics to stage the True North Queensland Day Concert recently.
In the Music Real E57, Nicki chats with leading world renowned specialist in human Behaviour, Dr John Demartini. John has travelled to over 151 countries and presented in over 50 countries per year, where he shares his research and findings across the globe. His primary signature program The Breakthrough Experience® has been presented over 1100 times in 65 countries. He is the author of over 50 books, published in 36 different languages. He has produced over 70 CDs and DVDs covering subjects such as human development, achievement, leadership, business, wealth, education, and human relations. He has created over 76 different courses. I reached out to John because thanks to the COVID lockdowns, millions of live music artists around the globe lost their income in one day. I wanted to share a voice that is outside of our industry narrative to get a more universal perspective of how to navigate our way through the rage and anger at losing livelihoods while identifying the blessings and opportunities that the lockdown has presented. If there is one man who can take us into gratitude for an event like this, it is John. Listen all the way through. This interview is a gold mine for Live Music Artists and anyone wanting to know how to move through anger to gratitude and creativity. Also please make sure you visit his website, details below. It is a treasure trove of resources to help facilitate you into a space to reimagine the music industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/26/dr-john-demartini-creating-original-ideas-that-serve-humanity/
In the Music Real E56, we chat with Tudor Vasile from the Mental Awareness Foundation organisers of the annual Walk for Awareness event. The annual Walk for Awareness would involve bringing people together in a friendly environment where the issues of mental health could be discussed openly with friends, family and supportive strangers. It was based on the belief that the matters surrounding suicide should be talked about, not shut away. We hear from Tudor how 2020’s Walk may be organised into smaller community pods to meet the government restriction guidelines. We hear how this lockdown has impacted people and how the mental Awareness Foundation works with charities to create programs in the community to get to the heart of society’s greatest challenges. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/25/tudor-vasile-of-mental-awareness-foundation-look-out-for-one-another
In The Music Real Episode 25, The Pushworth Group team catch up with young emerging Australia Music Artists, To The Skies.
These young guys have been working hard supporting artists like GANGgajang, Uncanny X Men, Radiators, Dean Ray and have been plugging away for the past couple of years hard at work in the studio.
They released their single ECHO just before lockdown. Talk about Timing!!! And despite the challenges of not being able to support ECHO by their planned tour, they achieved 32000 streams in two months.
Part of our #youngemergingtalent2watch roster!
https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/releasing-your-single-just-before-lockdown-with-to-the-skies/
In the Music Real E55, we chat with Samwise Holmes of Drive in Entertainment Australia. When venues across the world closed their doors, Samwise got cracking and developed a new breed of COVID Safe Live Music shows in his Drive In shows. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/25/samwise-holmes-driving-audiences-back-to-live-shows/
In the Music Real E54, Nicki has the honour of speaking with Tony Burke MP who is one of the greatest supporters of the Australian Music industry. In Federal Parliament in April, Tony moved a motion that called for a “specific, tailored, fiscal response package to ensure [the] ongoing viability” of the arts and entertainment sector. That motion was voted down. And when you realise that the Bureau of Communications and Arts Research (BCAR) has released analysis showing cultural and creative activity contributed $111.7 billion to Australia’s economy in 2016-17, there is a clear disconnect between the Federal Government and the real Music Industry. Tony issued a call to action – sign Petition EN1609 – Support for Australian Arts and Entertainment Workers now. Its time to #makesomenoise. A big thank you to Tony for taking the time to talk to The Music Real. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/24/tony-burke-mp-keep-the-unity-make-some-noise-music-and-government/
In the Music Real E53, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Dominic Miller from Q Music – Queensland’s Music Industry Development Association. Q Music delivers significant annual industry events such as Big Sound and the Queensland Music Awards and offers resources and opportunities to music artists in Queensland. So here we are, its 2020, an invisible little virus lands in OZ, lockdown restrictions begin and one by one, Events, Hospitality and Music communities shut down. At a time when 99% of the sector stopped, Q Music stepped up to support Musicians in a variety of programs and initiatives. Dominic talks about Q Music Connect and the recent Start Grant Program. If you want inside information about how to fully maximize the opportunities that lockdown has offered, this is a great resource for music artists! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/22/dominic-miller-of-q-music-connecting-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E52, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Fabio Tolli, an Australian Music Artist based in Queensland. Fab is one of Queensland’s most requested Artists. With his new single out later this year, Fab’s unique blend of acoustic indie folk rock has proven to be popular especially with Brides planning their perfect big day of music. We hear how Fab is making hay while the sun shines and has leveraged his time in lockdown to build his new enterprise. Very inspiring! Fab is one of Australia’s #emergingyoungtalent2watch! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/22/fab-tolli-making-hay-while-the-sun-shines/
In the Music Real E50, Nicki has the opportunity to speak with multi award winner Richard Flohil, Music Promoter, Journalist, Artistic Director, Author and Publicist, who has dedicated six decades of his career in Canada to working with the who’s who of the global music industry. From mentoring Artists like k.d. lang and Ani Di Franco to handling celebrity PR for Sir George Martin and Billy Connolly to working with Miles Davis, Benny Goodman and Chuck Berry, Richard cofounded the iconic Mariposa Folk Festival and is in the process of finishing the final chapters in his book. This is a man who knows the Music Industry better than anyone. Richard brings a rich wisdom of how to build a career in music and how to book a show that will sell out is second to none. His perspective on how to reimagine this industry gives us a lot to consider. We had a few issues with the internet connection but nothing deterred Richard from sharing his incredible story. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/15/richard-flohil-canada-reimagining-the-music-business/
In the Music Real E51, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Lindy Morrison from Support Act, a charity helping artists, roadies and music workers who are facing hardship due to illness, injury or some other crisis that impacts on their ability to work in music. Support Act provides financial relief, advice, a wealth of practical resources and even contributes to funeral costs where needed. The Support Act Wellbeing Helpline is a free, confidential 24/7 counselling service that is available to anyone working in Australian music who needs to talk about any aspect of their mental health. For the first time in modern history, music communities around the globe have lost their livelihoods. People with families and mortgages who form part of the industry ecosystem that brings a show to life live – have been unable to work since the middle of March this year. At this time in history, a charity like Support Act, will help to define the industry recovery. We hear from Lindy, how the Support Act team have had to level up to cope with the extraordinary demands caused by COVID lockdowns. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/15/lindy-morrison-of-support-act-levelling-up-in-lockdown/
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In the Music Real E49, The Pushworth team interview Shayne Brian and Darren J Carver from the Bad Boys podcast recently launched during lockdown. The show looks at the big issues that men face with two guys that have been there, done that and got locked up for it. Keen supporters of Indie Music in Queensland, Shayne and Darren bring a real and raw curiosity in this chat. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/14/what-bad-boys-do-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E48, Nicki brings the lockdown conversation to the elephant in the room. Mental Health. Chiropractor and Transitional Anxiety Mentor/Teacher, Dr Nima Rahmany, from Vancouver, British Columbia has dedicated his life to studying and teaching principles of healing in the mind and body and overcoming stress began a virtual program called Trigger Proof: How to Regulate Stress + Strengthen Immunity during a Crisis in March to support people around the world while going through lockdown. And due to the importance of Mental Health in the Music Industry, especially now at a time of great uncertainty in our market, its important to have a chat with Nima about how Music and Mental health are inextricably connected. Be sure to watch this interview and then go one line to www.drnima.com/vw1 and use the promo code – triggerproof – a very special offer to get access to Nima’s event this Sunday 21 June. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/14/dr-nima-rahmany-healing-through-lockdown/
In the Music Real E47, Mark and Nicki catch up with Pub Choir Founder and Conductor, Astrid Jorgenson. Pub Choir is a game changing live event concept popular around the globe with Pub Choirs now in the US, NZ and the UK. To get strangers to sing together at a pub is no mean feat so imagine organising the logistics to get the PC crew safely back to Australia in the middle of the pandemic. This is Astrid’s story. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/12/astrid-jorgensen-of-pub-choir-the-mad-dash-home/
In the Music Real E46, Manny and Nicki catch up with Australian Multi-Instrumentalist, Singer, Songwriter and Music Producer, Rick Price. Rick’s lockdown was quite different to ours as he is living in Nashville – a music town now completely shut down. Rick was scheduled to tour in Australia this year but like so many artists around the world, those dates have been postponed until it is clear how venues will not operate safely. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/12/rick-price-lockdown-in-nashville/
In the Music Real E45, Nicki checks in with Felicity Mandile from Qld Ballet a key Queensland Arts and Cultural organization who has been setting the bar very high with creative output in terms of social media posts during lockdown by creating a series of programs to keep audiences engaged.
Studio Insights #QBIsolatte series #Making Magic #60 dancers 60 stories – these series have been a wonderful way to stay connected to audiences around the world and a great way to feature your extremely talented dancers. We hear how lockdown impacted the Queensland Ballet’s concert calendar and how they are making preparations for the post COVID world of rehearsals, fittings, teaching and live shows once restrictions ease and the company can gather together once more. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/11/felicity-mandile-queensland-ballet-keeping-the-magic-alive-in-lockdown/
In the Music Real E44, Nicki has a chat with Justin Dorin a Sydney Music Artist who achieved the number one spot on the ARI Charts with Mohave On My Mind. Justin is the front man for International Alt Rock Band Stone Empire. With killer vocals, as an Indie Artist, Justin is prolific with a mighty passion and energy that translates to the listener in every single one of his tracks. Justin is one Australian Music artist to watch. His fifth single, Pictures on a Wall, was released Friday 12 June. Justin works with producers Graham Buzz Bidstrup and David Nicholas – SBD Music and Rhinoceros Music-Publishing. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/11/a-lockdown-number-one-hit-with-justin-dorin/
Music and Arts organizations have found themselves in the most unexpected situation in 2020 where concerts and live shows have been cancelled for the first time in modern history. We have been so inspired watching how people are responding and in particular we have enjoyed the QSO Orchestra Over the Fence series. In the Music Real E43, Manny and Nicki catch up with Matthew Hodge from the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, a vital part of the Queensland Arts and Cultural calendar. Matthew talks about how the lockdown interrupted their concert series, how the team very quickly pivoted to create the At Home series and how the orchestra musicians have levelled up and adapted so well to the technological interface of the lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/11/matthew-hodge-queensland-symphony-orchestra/
In the Music Real E42, Nicki chats with Dr Mark Bin Bakar and Graham “Buzz” Bidstrup – two gentlemen who have dedicated their lives to creating meaningful music and health programs in remote indigenous communities. Multi Award winning Producer, Artist, Comedian, Speaker, Artist Manager and Label, Mark is based in Broome, so I wanted to know how the lockdown was treating him and the community up there. Mark has been employed by the WA government in COVID 19 Health campaigns throughout the lockdown. Iconic Australian Rock Royalty Artist, Producer, Songwriter, Buzz, as the CEO for Thumbs Up, is launching the Good Tucker App however lockdown halted his plans to be out in the community. Both Mark and Buzz use music as a pathway to bring healthcare awareness to Indigenous Australian communities. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/11/dr-mark-bin-bakar-graham-buzz-bidstrup/
In the Music Real E41, the team have an early morning chat with Sex Pistols, Bassist and Song Writer Mr Glen Matlock. Stuck in lockdown in the UK since March after COVID forced the cancellation of his US tour, Glen had an unexpected house guest – Earl Slick, sideman guitarist for David Bowie and John Lennon – stuck in the UK thanks to lockdown. The two of them have been entertaining fans in their new digital show Me and Him. We had a great chat with Glen about the state of the UK, politics after Brexit and the future for music over there – and let’s face it – worldwide. And we had a nice surprise appearance from Slick at the end of our chat! With a new album out later this year, we cannot wait to see Glen and Slick back in Australia in 2021. In the meantime, check out Glen’s album Good To Go! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/11/glen-matlock-stuck-in-lockdown-with-earl-slick/
In the Music Real E40, the team have a great chat with Mark Sudweeks from My Guest List. Mark shares all about their COVID initiative Project Unity. Fantastic APP. Wonderful Cause. This is one uplifting lockdown story. Bringing people together to support the Hospitality Industry! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/10/mark-sudweeks-my-guest-list-project-unity/
In the Music Real E39, the team catch up with Sacha Sewell. We worked with Sacha in his highly successful El Dorado Music agency for years. His experience in this industry is second to none and now as an Event Manager for the City of Holdfast Bay in SA, we checked in with Sacha to talk about the very challenging and confronting impact of lockdown on Events and Event Management. There is so much uncertainty with announcements changing almost daily that it is hard to make plans for future events. For now, it is all about postponement and rescheduling. And preparing for Infection Control and COVID safe event policies. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/09/sacha-sewell-event-management-in-the-time-of-covid/
In The Music Real E38, our special guest today is Simone Ubaldi, booker for The Croxton in Thornbury and the co-director of the Save Our Scene campaign.
Melbourne boasts more live music venues per capita than any other city in the world. Pushworth is based in Brisbane, however we work with many independent operators – bookers and venues in Victoria for our National Tours. Here we are, its 2020 and the ability for people in the Events, Hospitality and Music industries to run their businesses and earn a living has been severely hampered by the COVID-19 shutdown and ensuing restrictions. It takes a village to grow this industry. When I say village – venue bookers, promoters, production companies, ticketing companies, musicians, agents, artist managers, hospitality and bar staff, security, technicians and a range of suppliers and contractors whose livelihoods depend on producing that event. And these are the people that can no longer earn an income. In The Music Real E38, our special guest today is Simone Ubaldi, booker for The Croxton in Thornbury and the co-director of the Save Our Scene campaign. Make sure you go to https://www.saveourscene.com.au/ and sign the petition. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/08/simone-ubaldi-save-our-scene/
In The Music Real E37, The Pushworth Group team get some timely insights into what the Live Music landscape will look like once lockdown restrictions ease in their interview with Ian Smith, National Entertainment Manager for Australian Venue Co. Great to hear about the innovations that AVC have planned for the new pub market. Some great tips for Live Music Artists in this chat. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/07/ian-smith-australian-venue-co/
In The Music Real E36, Manny and Nicki have the honour of speaking with Australian Rock Singer, John Swan. A career that began when he was very young, Swannee went on to be highly successful, working with the whos who of the Australian Music Industry. Part of Australian Rock and Roll’s First Family, John now focuses his time and energy on his extensive charity work. Significantly, John was recognised in the 2017 Australia Day awards with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his charity work. We spoke to a healthy, reflective, caring gentleman whose story is worthy of at least one book. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/05/john-swan-swannee-giving-back/
In The Music Real E35, The Pushworth Group team hear how John Kirk from Uncanny X Men Oz Music Band is faring in lockdown. 35 years ago this week, ground breaking rock album “Cos Life Hurts” was released. And after speaking with so many Artists during this lockdown, it is clear that X Men’s “Everybody Wants To Work” is just a little too ironic for 2020. John, like so many music artists, lost all his show bookings but looks forward to the X Men releasing a new album and a national tour whenever pubs and clubs and concert halls re open with full capacity again. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/05/john-kirk-of-uncanny-x-men-everybody-wants-to-work/
In The Music Real E34, Emmanuel Kyriakidis and Nichola Burton from The Pushworth Group have a good solid chat with Matthew Donlevy, Music Publisher from Cooking Vinyl Australia an independent music company based in Melbourne. Matt discusses the opportunities for music artists during lockdown. Great information resource for song writers. Its timely to understand how the industry mechanism works at a micro level. Great chat! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/05/matthew-donleavy-cooking-vinyl-music-publishing/
In The Music Real E33, the team catch up with Dan Nipperess, spokesman from Clubs Queensland.
Clubs Queensland is the voice behind the changing face of community clubs in Queensland and provides connections and resources for community clubs across Queensland including the areas of education, government representation, training, and what’s new in hospitality and gaming. And especially in this time with lockdown restrictions beginning to ease, Clubs Queensland is leading the way with offering guidance to its members with the Industry COVID SAFE plan and a whole suite of strategies and plan to work in this brave new world post COVID.
We look at the definitions of a Defined Area in a Venue? We look at what a Live Music Artist will need to consider in terms of checking in at a venue for their show, safety induction, set up, perform, interaction with the audience, pull down and load out of a venue. Lots to think about in this new post COVID world. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/clubs-queensland-prepare-live-music-artists-for-post-covid-shows-with-dan-nipperess/
In The Music Real E32, the team talks to Dan Nebe, the founder of Rockin’4 The Homeless an annual event organised by volunteers to support the homeless in the Peninsula community.
The event organisation is pretty impressive in that there is always has a major headliner act with plenty of local artists supporting the event. To fully fund an event BEFORE the doors open is an incredible achievement. All monies raised for the event go directly and wholly to the cause.
We talk to Dan about the challenges with the Event going ahead as planned due to the COVID restrictions and discuss possibilities for events in the post Covid world for events like this.
What do you do when the entire Event Bill has been booked and paid for and now everything has changed? https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/how-do-you-plan-a-charity-event-post-covid-with-dan-nebe-rockin4-the-homeless/
In The Music Real Episode 31, the team talks to Brad Morgan, the CEO for the Darwin Turf Club.
We hear about Brad’s lockdown challenges especially with Social Distancing while continuing Horse Racing. We look at the considerations and comprehensive strategies for the reopening of the Darwin Turf Club and the ramifications of Covid for the Darwin Annual Event Calendar especially in prime season which is May to September. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/from-lockdown-to-the-re-open-in-darwins-high-season-with-brad-morgan/
In The Music Real Episode 30, the team talks to one of the 50 Most Influential People in the Australian Music Industry, Sharlene Harris, National Entertainment Manager for the ALH Group, one of the country’s largest supporters of Live Music to date.
We hear about lockdown challenges and the comprehensive plans for reopening over 300 venues nationwide once lockdown restrictions ease.
With Government Advice in a state of flux, it is incredibly challenging for a Venue to prepare for re opening and take all the precautions necessary to keep everyone safe. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/sharlene-harris-national-entertainment-manager-for-alh-how-we-prepare/
In The Music Real Episode 29, we have a chat with Australian beatboxer, singer, songwriter, instrumentalist and record producer – Joel Turner.
Joel gave a voice to a whole generation with his anthem, These Kids, which to this day remains the highest selling release by an Australian Hip Hop artist.
Joel’s resilience in lockdown and his powerful message, especially now with so many people struggling in lockdown losing businesses as well as losing loved ones to suicide, is one that we were privileged to share. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/beat-boxing-the-lockdown-with-joel-turner/
In The Music Real Episode 28, The Pushworth Team catch up with Greg Tschernez.
Greg is an Australian music artist who established the initiative Music for Mental Health which stands for Musicians United to Support, Inform and Care for Mental Health. Dedicated to navigating his way through his own struggles, Greg has provided a safe haven for Music Artists, a community and family to love and support each other.
We wanted to check in to see how he was doing in lockdown. It’s been incredibly tough for so many Live Music Artists with no work and no income.
We applaud Greg’s work in the Music Community and we encourage anyone who would love to be a part of this community to reach out to Greg.
This is a very special episode. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/music-mental-health-during-lockdown-with-greg-tschernez/
In The Music Real Episode 27, The Pushworth Team catch up with Rockstar Productions John Yost.
John is the face behind the FOH desk for so many touring artists in Queensland. He is the go to man for all things Live Production.
We hear how his lockdown is going and muse about what the future holds for live music events moving forward.
To get a perspective of how young Artists no longer have the ability to set up the gear and learn how to use it was great food for thought. Lockdown could be a time to upgrade Music Engineering skills. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/the-lockdown-unload-with-john-yost-and-rockstar-productions/
In The Music Real Episode 26, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Charlie Davis from Paradise Artists in New York.
Imagine having Live Shows and Tours booked on cruise ships and concert halls across the globe and having to postpone, reschedule and shuffle all in one week.
What a great chat we had with Charlie – hearing his story of how his life and business has been impacted by the lockdown. Australia has really done so well in comparison with the US in particular New York. What a story!! This is a good one. Tune in. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/the-great-lockdown-show-shuffle-by-charlie-davis-of-paradise-artists-new-york/
In The Music Real Episode 24, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Dom Alessio, Digital Export Producer for Sounds Australia.
Dom, who is a self-confessed full time music nerd, provides valuable and timely guidance for music artists in this phase of uncertainty in the Music Industry while sharing the chaos that Sounds Australia faced when lockdown first happened in March.
Make sure you check out the Sunday Session with Sounds Australia by following them on Facebook! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/dom-alessio-from-sounds-australia-and-the-lockdown-chaos/
In The Music Real Episode 23, We have a very familiar face with us – Mr Greg Dodge of Creative 42 Management.
Greg, a well-known Queensland icon of the Music Industry was part of the Brisbane Music Retailers Association, and Co-Founded Q Music spending many years as the First President.
Mentor, Artist Manager, Industry Connector and Influencer, Community Music Group Curator and most importantly Brisbane Music Scene Historian, Greg has been active in intercultural youth development around Hip Hop and Film for the past few years.
And now during Lockdown, Greg is making the most of the time to build his Arts Community Project – Community Connect. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/greg-dodge-gives-us-a-music-influencer-history-lesson/
In The Music Real Episode 22, Manny from Pushworth and Nicki from Music Means Business catch up with NZ multi award winning songstress, Aly Cook.
Aly recently toured Australia with GANGgajang. What we love about Aly is her relentless energy for the music business.
A publicist, promoter and lecturer, with a long history in all aspects of the industry, Aly has successfully crowd funded her albums and developed a succinct strategy to build her super fan base.
Lockdown and Quarantine doesn’t alter Aly’s ability to create enterprise – it was so great to get a fresh perspective in a time of uncertainty. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/aly-cook-nz-lockdown-tips-for-crowd-funding/
In The Music Real Episode 21, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Jason “Äce” Rooke from Australian Music Legends, The Tenants.
The band won a regional final for Triple J Unearthed in 1998 with the song, “You Shit Me to Tears”, which was listed at No. 3 on the Triple J Hottest 100, 1999 and were a hugely popular touring band throughout Australia in the early 2000s.
The team catch up with Ace to see how he is faring in lockdown and get his thoughts on what a post covid world may look for The Tenants beyond 2020.
Plus we name “You Shit Me To Tears” the unofficial number one Lockdown song! Watch out for its re release in a very popular Channel 7 show later this year! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/lockdown-anthem-you-shit-me-to-tears-thanks-to-the-tenants/
In The Music Real Episode 20, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Australian Music Lawyers, John Kenny and Lindsay Mengel of Entrelaw.
During this time in lockdown, we figured it was a good idea for Live Music Artists to listen to some information about Trademarking their Music Brands. Especially when looking forward into the brave new post COVID music business world.
John and Lindsay give us a lot to think about. Lockdown affords us a great opportunity to dig a little deeper into our Music Business Plans and assess how much our investment is worth and how easy it is for someone to leverage that value by using our brand if we DO NOT register a Trademark for our Music Brands. Great food for thought. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/why-trademark-a-chat-with-music-lawyer-john-kenny/
In The Music Real Episode 19, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Australian Music Artist, Dan England.
Back in 2005, Dan won the hearts of a nation with his soulful and angelic voice, dreadlock hairstyle and warm charisma on Australian Idol.
Dan’s has been a remarkable story, touring, releasing singles and building a solid music fan base.
We caught up with Dan about his time in Lockdown and the projects that he began as a result of having additional time on his hands. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/lockdown-projects-with-dan-england/
In The Music Real Episode 18, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Gavin Butlin and Marghi Murphy up in Airlie Beach.
Gavin has produced the Airlie Beach Festival of Music for many years and Marghi manages the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Life and Business for a Community Music Festival has sifted dramatically since lockdown and we talk to Gavin and Marghi about how they are navigating their way through all the changes for their Festivals. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/the-very-real-lockdown-impact-on-planning-music-festivals/
In The Music Real Episode 17, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Publicist, Cat Swinton of Catalyst PR.
Cat has worked with the who’s who of the Australian Music Scene for many years now and is one of the most respected Publicists in our industry.
Cat and the team talk about the most important things for Music Artists to do in terms of building the value of their Music Brands.
In this brave new world post lockdown, watching this episode could make all the difference for your Music Career. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/cat-swinton-its-all-about-your-brand/
In The Music Real Episode 15, Manny from The Pushworth Group and Nicki from Music Means Business check in with International Rockabilly Rocker Super Star, Slim Jim Phantom, in lockdown in LA.
Mr Stray Cat Stuff himself, was scheduled to tour Australia this June however like other events around the globe, it’s all about the reschedule.
Watch out 2021 when Slim returns to Australia – fingers crossed!
Slim has been super busy in Lockdown with his podcast Rockabilly Rave Ups. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/slim-jim-phantom-unlocked/
In The Music Real Episode 14, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Live Show Vocal Pedagogy Specialist, Christie Dawkins of Vocal Effects, to see how she has been faring in lockdown.
Christie reminds us that time in lockdown away from constant touring and live shows may just be a great time to recover and rebuild your vocal ability for a post covid return to stage.
For anyone who sings regularly, and was struggling before Lockdown – THIS is the episode for you. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/lockdown-vocal-recovery-with-christie-dawkins-of-vocal-effects/
In The Music Real Episode 13, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Australasian Operations and Project Management at Ingrooves Music Group (Universal Music Group), Rick Butterworth, to see how he has been faring in lockdown.
Ingrooves was founded in 2002 with a mission to create the “digital record label of the future”. And with the Music Business landscape, changing thanks to lockdown, this is an important interview to tune into.
And – of course – once again – your success as a Music Artist is all about your brand story. Its not often that Artists get such frank and realistic advice. Tune in to help build your Music Business. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/its-all-about-the-brand-with-rick-butterworth-in-grooves-music/
In today’s The Music Real, Episode 12, The Pushworth Group team catch up with one of Queensland’s most sought after and respected Solo Artists, Music by Amiel Matthews.
When we first got Amiel on screen, the Pushy boys totally fan girled over his studio in the background. Composer, producer and live show production specialist not to mention he has set the bar very high in terms of live looping, Amiel had his very impressive studio stuffed with lots of goodies.
It was great to hear about his latest release Collab with Bar of Brunswick – Don’t Make It So. With the EP ‘Don’t Judge a Musical by its Cover’ due for release later this year, Amiel has been incredibly busy during lockdown.
It was great to hear his perspective on how this event has impacted an entire industry. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/kicking-ass-in-lockdown-amiel-matthews/
In today’s The Music Real, Episode 11, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Brian Lizottes owner of the legendary Lizotte’s Newcastle – Live N Cookin’ – live music venue in Newcastle.
Now in its 11th year, Lizottes is one of those iconic Aussie Live Music Venues with a unique concept – the dinner show – which has featured the who’s who of Australian and International Live Music Artists over the past decade.
A life without Music? Unthinkable?
Let’s find out what it is like for a major Australian Live Music Venue in lockdown. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/live-n-cookin-in-lockdown-with-brian-lizotte/
In The Music Real Episode 16, The Pushy team chat with Qld Music Artist, Matthew Clark. Matt, who started his DIY Mondays and Music with Friends podcasts during lockdown, has inspired us all with the action he has taken during this time.
With no live shows since the middle of March, Matt has leveraged his experience in lockdown for personal development and this has helped him to look at his music business and brand in a new light.
We are proud to be working with Matt as an Artist and he is one of Pushworth’s #youngtalent2watch roster. We hope that all young artists listening to Matt today, take heart and keep following your Music Business vision. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/diy-lockdown-with-matthew-clark/
In The Music Real Episode 10, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Australian Country Music Star, North Queensland Personality and Influencer, Jade Holland , to see how she has been faring in lockdown.
After touring non stop for the past two years, Jade has taken a well deserved break for the first few weeks of lockdown.
After that she began the process of writing her new single with her award winning songwriting partner, Phil Barton, via Zoom and found it surprisingly easy – Jade in Hervey Bay and Phil in Nashville. Who knew?
But more importantly, Jade talks about the light in the lockdown becoming the poster child for Self Care in an industry that has been decimated by the lockdown which has been a catalyst of great personal growth in so many people throughout the world. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/jade-holland-the-zoom-single/
In The Music Real Episode 9, Nicki from Music Means Business gets a chance to chat with Australian Music Legend, Recording Artist, Songwriter, Music Producer, Speaker and Artist Manager The Music Buzz – Graham “Buzz” Bidstrup during lockdown.
Thanks to his extensive recording and touring with The Angels, The Party Boys and GANGgajang and managing artists Jimmy Little, Nathan Cavaleri and Diana Ah Naid, Buzz has utilised music as a pathway for nutrition and health education for indigenous children throughout Australia through his work as CEO for Uncle Jimmy Thumbs Up.
For Buzz, Lockdown was just like his ordinary work week anyway. Being locked into his studio is his idea of a good time. So Buzz and his wife have been busy writing songs, plus a Musical Project in the works while producing music for Artists. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/the-music-buzz-in-lockdown/
In The Music Real Episode 8, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Stewie Fairhurst of Gold Coast Music. Stewie, long time Gold Coast Music Artist and Radio Announcer, together with his wife, has been working flat out during lockdown trying to keep up with the demand.
At a time when much of the Music Industry is in hibernation, this is fantastic news and reminds us all that there IS a light at the end of the tunnel. It was great to hear about which instruments were now in demand as a result of lockdown and how one small music store had pivoted and innovated to not only survive but thrive. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/lockdown-success-story-gold-coast-music/
The Music Real Episode 7, The Pushworth Group team catch up with Lachlan Donaldson, the man responsible for the curation of Live Entertainment and Events for the highly successful Twin Towns Clubs & Resorts.
Interesting to understand how lockdown has impacted on pubs and clubs around the country and to get an idea of what life will be like once pubs and clubs begin the slow process of reopening again from 15 May. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/back-to-business-with-lachlan-donaldson-twin-towns-services-club/
In The Music Real Episode 6, Mark from Our House Productions and Nicki from Music Means Business take time in lockdown to explore why it is so hard to get current up to date Photo Stock from Music Brands.
There are many reasons why Artists struggle with this.
They are not alone.
The majority of music artists are challenged in the discovery of their Music Brand.
Mark and Nicki chat about this and offer a solution during lockdown.
Click here for the Pushworth Marketing Cheat Sheet
https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/the-great-music-brand-photo-the-struggle-is-real/
In Episode 4, Manny and Nicki catch up with US Comedian + Live Performance Wellness Coach, Dr Vinnie Monaco to discuss something that at one point in time has impacted Music Businesses worldwide.
The HECKLER.
In a time when Mental Health is the keystone for your Music Business, this is one topic we are keen on talking about.
We discover the 3 types of Hecklers –
- On Stage
- On Line
- In Your Head
We discuss perspectives for dealing with all three as part of an overall Music Business Coaching and Mental Health Strategy. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/dealing-with-hecklers-with-dr-vinnie-monoaco/
In Episode 5 of The Music Real, the Pushworth team catch up with Aria Award winning Artist, Composer, Producer and Investigative Journalist, Tyrone Noonan who talks about what its been like for him in lockdown. Practical matters like catching up on tax but also organising video shoots for his next single release. It was a highly entertainment chat including a very surprising uncensored awakening philosophy about the global lockdowns.
Watch out for his new album UTOPIA in 2020! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/getting-real-in-lockdown-with-tyrone-noonan/
In Episode 2, the Pushworth Team talk about plans for Lockdown.
How long will it take?
How to make the most of this lockdown time?
How to work on your Music Brand during this time at home?
Lockdown is an opportunity to expand your Digital Assets – take better photos, refine your show, update your website and socials, catch up on your tax, upgrade your skills, reassess your career plan and most importantly, establish who YOU are when you are NOT performing live. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/06/03/may-as-work-on-your-music-brand/
In Episode 3 of The Music Real, the Pushy team talk about a new perspective and new strategies for MONEY in all its forms for the Music Industry.
We talk about the five steps in your Music Business Budget – Spendings, Savings, Cushion, Investment and Risk. We talk financial strategies, music business plans, Touring, Release and Publicity Budget considerations. Its all about Money – after all, you are not investing all of this hard earned cash just for a hobby! https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/04/04/money-and-the-music-industry/
The Pushworth Group, a Live Music and Event Management Company turning 30 on 17 July 2020, did the unthinkable on 13 March. We began to cancel, postpone and reschedule every single contracted event, tour and show in our booking system. In one day, we moved 6 million dollars worth of income for Live Music Artists in our system.
The first month was spent with Accountants, working with Hospitality to finalise Artist payments when they were in disarray sending staff home trying to sort their own businesses out. Then it was time to check in with the Artists and see how they were faring and help guide them through the government assistance options as things evolved day by day.
As a team, after spending decades being on call, we stopped. We allowed ourselves to feel every single emotion and focused on Self Care. It was an opportunity to go within, dig deep and resource ourselves to be able to reimagine our business post COVID.
The Music Real began primarily as a way to connect to our tribe. We wanted to shine the light at the end of the tunnel with no idea where or when or what size that tunnel would be.
In talking to the variety of people in the Events, Hospitality and Music communities, a very real story of Lockdown emerged.
The Music Real has evolved into a collection of stories about the men and women who are the village who brings an event to life regardless of the Arts Sector. These are the real people whose lives and livelihoods have changed beyond belief. These are the real responses – how they pivoted, innovated, recreated, reimagined the recovery for their business and these three industries.
These are their stories.
Its been 30 days.
The Pushworth Team have been locked up.
Its time to start talking about this unprecedented historical event that for the first time in modern history has shut down all live music events. They talk about cancelling shows, getting Artists paid before Hospitality Groups shut up shop. Getting fit, looking after their Mental Health, Reorganising studios and production equipment, Gardening, Cooking, doing On Line Courses. But most importantly trying to craft a new vision for what the Music Industry may look like once lockdown restrictions ease and shows start to happen again – whenever that may be. https://themusicreal.com.au/2020/04/03/30-days-in-lockdown/