VIP News Premium - January 2018

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PREMIUM > VOLUME 207 > JANUARY 2018

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JANUARY 2018

McGowan’s

Musings

Welcome to the first Newsletter of 2018,

my window, and if I could see the sea

Argent, and just a day ago (as I write) the

and a Happy New Year to you all! Now I

through the foggy mist I bet the waves are

fine South African musician and political

know I went through a phase of mentioning

spectacular, but my excuse for mentioning

activist Hugh Masekela. Then, just as I’m

the weather quite a lot some time ago,

this is the wind that delayed, and in some

about to conclude the News, we hear of the

just after a period of talking about Shitty

cases denied the attendance of delegates

passing of Mark.E.Smith, of The Fall.

the Seagull, well you may have noticed

to Eurosonic Noorderslag in Groningen last

that I haven’t been that meteorological, or

week, Storm Friederike unleashed 125 mile

Being something of a technophobe, as

‘gullible’ for a while, but… As I speak the

an hour winds on Holland and Germany,

friends will tell you, I like the news that

wind is blowing something fierce outside

with the whole of the Dutch railway system

Jack White has declared that shows would

being suspended, and flights being delayed

be “phone-free”. On his upcoming U.S.

and cancelled! It was apparently quite

tour. “No photos, video or audio recording

spectacular, and something of a piss off for

devices will be allowed, he adds, “We think

many. So you might have gathered that I,

you’ll enjoy looking up from your gadgets

and the rest of the VIP’ers (Just occurred to

for a little while and experience music and

me that if we had a football team we could

our shared love of it IN PERSON”. He points

call it The VIPers!)

out that many of the audience can no longer clap, as they have a phone in one hand, and

COLOPHON > VIP-News is published by: VIP-Booking.com Enghaven 19 Attrup 8444 Balle Denmark Managing Director: Ronni Didriksen rd@vip-booking.com General Manager: Peter Briggs pb@vip-booking.com Writer and editorial: Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com Writer: Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com For advertising enquiries please contact: Peter Briggs pb@vip-booking.com +46 70 77 60 480

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were in Groningen last week for another

a drink in the other. Although I find it hard

fine edition of Eurosonic, also, having

to clap with just the drink in hand - well, as

journeyed there on the Wednesday I had

long as you don’t ban the drinks Jack, I’m

no travel problems, and much as we had

right behind you, or probably more likely in

been warned about the impending storm

front, and I’ll try to applaud, though it may

the student city escaped the worst of the

be a little ungainly, and sometimes damp!

weather, allowing all of we early birds to enjoy the panels and showcases whilst we

As we look forward to another year in the

waited for those fighting their way towards

wonderful world of live music; what can

us! Even allowing for the effects of winter

we expect from the touring and festival

the event was as successful as ever (See

markets, not to mention all there is to be

report in this edition)

learned from upcoming conferences, – will there be new events? We’ll let you know,

What I do seem to have talked about in

and of course help us out by letting us have

recent editions has been the sad demise of

your news!

musicians, and I’m afraid that continues.

Recently we have lost Fast Eddy Clarke who

So, here’s to a great year and in the

departed to join his Motorhead bandmates,

meantime Ladies and Gentlemen – a

Dolores O’Riordan of the Cranberries,

somewhat politically oriented edition of

bassist Jim Rodford of The Kinks and

The News!

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

Elton John retires from touring From VIP-Daily News Elton John has said he will be retiring from touring, 50 years on from the launch of his enormously successful pop career.

In an event at New York City’s Gotham Hall on Wednesday, John announced his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, a three-year, fivecontinent outing that will feature more than 300 concerts, and will be the last of his career. “It’s time to come off the road so I can fully embrace the next important chapter of my life,” he said. “I need to dedicate more time to raising my children.”

To do it properly, Elton John will embark on

He plans to stay “creative,” and despite

November 2019, Australasia in December

reports to the contrary, he said, “I`m in great

2019 and into 2020.

health.”

a three-year, 300-date tour all around the

John will then tour South America in March

world. “It`ll be the best production I`ve ever

Elton John`s “Farewell Yellow Brick Road”

2020, before returning to Europe. in late

done,” he promised. “It`ll be a wonderful

tour starts in the U.S. on Sept. 8, and

2020 and finishing in North America in

way to thank everyone.”

continues into Europe in April 2019, Asia in

2021.

ESNS Completes 2018 Edition From VIP-Daily News

Conference

Eurosonic Noorderslag, or ESNS as it’s

Bulgarian singer Kristian Kostov. Previous

generally referred to these days took place

to the Awards ESNS had announced that

from January 17-19, presenting another

streaming data would be incorporated in

The agenda of the daytime conference

successful edition.

the airplay based European Border Breakers

covered the present state of the various

Charts,

sectors of the European music industry

when monitoring the success of

The event faced access problems caused by

European artists receiving coverage outside

and

bad weather which closed down the Dutch

of their country of origin.

4,092 international professionals from 42

rail system for a day, but all went ahead as

discussed

future

developments.

countries participated

planned and this European Music Platform

352 acts with 22 of these coming from

continued to support the circulation of

Denmark,

country,

During the ESNS conference the present

European music talent.

showcased across 52 venues in the city

state of the European music industry

this

year’s

focus

of Groningen. During the conference the

was covered from several perspectives.

This edition was opened on Wednesday

European

Programme

EPIC handled relevant topics such as

evening by Jools Holland, again hosting

(ETEP) festivals presented the first selection

safety, sustainability, volunteering, event

the European Border Breakers Awards. The

of acts to be booked for their upcoming

technology and production innovations.

ceremony celebrated 10 European acts who

events. The acts with the most mentions

Buma Music meets Tech dealt with topics

were judged to have broken borders with

were: IAMDDB (gb), Zeal & Ardor (ch),

such as blockchain, streaming services,

their music over the past year. The Head

Meute (de), Superorganism (gb), Jacob

bots and start-ups in tech. Additionally,

of Unit Creative Europe Barbara Gessler

Banks (gb), Tamino (be), Agar Agar (fr) and

diversity and women’s position in the music

handed out the Public Choice Award to the

Altin Gun (nl).

industry was highlighted in panels about

Talent

Exchange

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VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

the Keychange and Take A Stand projects.

The Agents Panel looked at the present

The VIP stand at ESNS was busy as usual

state of the artist booking business, again highlighting the volatility of what was at one time the most consistent sector of the live business. Keynote interviews included very informative and entertaining addresses from Live Aid promoter Harvey Goldsmith and Eurosonic founder Peter Smidt.

Awards Besides the European Border Breakers Awards the European Festival Awards and the A Greener Festival Awards were also handed out during ESNS. Amongst the winners at the European Festival Awards were

Roskilde

Festival,

Sziget,

MENT

Ljubljana, ATC Live agent Alex Bruford and Lollapalooza Berlin festival director Fruzsina SzĂŠp. (See full listing below) The A Greener Festival Awards applauded some of the best green initiatives which were presented by Das Fest, Roskilde Festival, Ilosaarirock, Metal Days, Welcome to the Village and Liberation Festival Utrecht.

Official numbers ESNS 2018

VIP News Editor Allan McGowan interviewing Summer Marshall and Sarah Sølvsten at ESNS

Total number of visitors: 40.288 Conference visitors: 4.092 Nationalities: 42 Acts: 352 Number of venues Eurosonic: 52 Number of venues Noorderslag: 10 Media & journalists: 479 EBU radio stations: 37 Live broadcasts from ESNS: 30 from 14 stations (a total of 41 hours) International festivals: 420 ETEP festivals: 103 The next edition of ESNS will take place from January 16-19, 2019 in Groningen, The Netherlands.

Roskilde Festival won 2 awards at European Festival Awards

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VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

THE EUROPEAN FESTIV AL

AWARDS 2017 ARE…

Best New Festival In association with CGA Wacken Winter Nights

Best Small Festival MENT Ljubljana

The Green Operations Aw ard In association with Go Gro up Pohoda Festival

The Health and Safety Inn ovation Award In association with Yes Gro up Paléo Festival Nyon & Ro skilde Festival

Line-Up of the Year In association with Facec ulture Sziget Festival

Best Medium-Sized Festi val In association with Even tbrite Down The Rabbit Hole

Best Indoor Festival MENT Ljubljana

The Take a Stand Award In association with Take A Stand Roskilde Festival

Newcomer of the Year In association with Euros onic Noorderslag Rag ‘n’ Bone Man

Best Major Festival EXIT Festival

Agent of the Year In association with IQ Alex Bruford (ATC Live) Promoter of the Year Goodlive

The Award for Excellence &

Passion

The Lifetime Achievemen t

Award

Fruzsina Szép

Daniel Rossellat

The Brand Activation Aw ard In association with Emac The Miele Powerwash at Lowlands Festival

Best Major Festival EXIT Festival

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100 Acts | 10 Venues | 500 Delegates

Discover new Swedish and international music and meet the industry at Europe’s most intimate showcase festival and music conference wheresthemusic.se Festival Sponsor

Festival Partner

Media Partner

Festival Friend

Promoter

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JANUARY 2018

The Political Agenda Of Eurosonic Noorderslag Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com Besides all the business related conference

Another meaningful highlight has been the

topics which took place during the recent

coverage of Music Moves Europe, a project

edition of Eurosonic Noorderslag, this

by the European Commission to launch a

year’s conference agenda featured ten

support programme for the music sector in

panels and presentations with a political

the upcoming EU-budget period starting in

theme, more than usually part of the

2021. As reported in the last issue of VIP

agenda for this type of event.

News the European Parliament approved the EU-Commission launch of the, so

The reasons for this took into account

called, preparatory action proceedings for

live music sector hasn’t been considered a

the fact that recent developments on a

this mission.

priority by the industry itself. Up to a certain

national and European level are relevant

extent some live music trade bodies have

and substantial enough to be covered

At Eurosonic Noorderslag 2018 a delegation

managed to score some achievements on

appropriately. As far back as the late

of commission officials announced how

national levels, but this most prospering

seventies

a

it will proceed to install this programme,

industry sector besides the publishing

trendsetter with Dutch politicians amongst

starting on February 14 with a presentation

sector has very limited, in fact hardly any,

the very first to authorise subsidies in

in Brussels introducing the first Music Moves

experience in acting jointly on a European

support of popular music.

Europe pilot projects. However, compared

level.

The

Netherlands

became

to the Raad Voor Cultuur initiative for the In political terms the Netherlands have

music sector in the Netherlands, Music

In addition to this comes the fact that the

also instituted a development that in most

Moves Europe still leaves many questions

majority of European politicians have no

other European countries, as yet, remains

open.

idea about the needs of the music sector.

unthinkable. In November of last year The Raad voor Cultuur

Most of them are caged in formal settings,

(Council for Culture)

Amongst others it has been said, that Music

accustomed to proceedings that accompany

declared that the support of popular music

Moves Europe will be a furtherance of the

the political daily business of decision

should be considered on a par with classical

current Creative Europe programme, which

considering and taking. Unlike previous

music. This move by the Council is far more

is considered a rather stiff and bureaucratic

generations of politicians, such as the former

binding than a mere recommendation,

application

sector.

culture minister Jack Lang in the eighties,

being more of a political statement as

Additionally, so far, very little is known

who, together with Jean Francois Michel,

decisions agreed within this political body

about the design and set up of Music

founded and developed Bureau Export in

are binding for the Ministry of Culture.

Moves Europe, although it has already

France and later on the European Music

for

the

culture

been emphasized that the full support of

Office, strategies and support schemes for

The council published a comprehensive

the entire music sector is required in order

the music sector that even sustain until

document

to raise awareness for the programme.

today.

recommendations and findings to develop

Indeed if this programme is to be political

However, Eurosonic Noorderslag once again

coherent structures and strategies for the

ratified it requires the approval of the

delivered a valuable platform for spreading

support of music. The document touches on

European Parliament and also the general

some political news and messages that

subjects ranging from working conditions

agreement of the European Council and all

could be highly meaningful not just for the

in the sector, to equal support for all

EU member states.

Netherlands but for the entire European

covering

all

parts

of

the

music sector, including a catalogue of

genres, acknowledging that current culture

music sector. Let’s hope the music sector

policies focus too much on classical music,

Music Moves Europe presents wide ranging

itself and in particular the live music sector

thus neglecting the music preferences of

political challenges for the music sector. In

pick up on some of the offers that lie ahead

certain parts of society.

particular as, until now, lobbying for the

for them in the near future.

7

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

Scooter Braun announced for Midem From VIP-Daily News Scooter Braun, Founder of SB Projects, is the first major speaker

Midem 2018 takes place from June 5 – 8 and brings together artists,

announced for Midem in June.

agents, labels, publishers, tech, festivals and managers for four days of debates, business, networking and concerts.

Braun will give a keynote speech on Thursday, June 7th at the annual conference in Cannes about how he’s built his entertainment and

Said Braun: “I’m honoured to be the first recipient of Midem’s Hall

media company, SB Projects.

of Fame Award and look forward to joining my colleagues at Midem this summer to discuss how the music industry can continue to not

Through SB’s management, label and publishing arms, Braun works

only grow but also give back.”

with artists including Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Kanye West, Usher, Karlie Kloss, Tori Kelly and Carly Rae Jepsen.

Alexandre Deniot, Director of Midem, added: “Scooter Braun is a leading figure in today’s music community, inspiring people to build

The exec will also be the first-ever recipient of the Midem Hall of

a truly modern and innovative music business and never failing to

Fame Award for his contribution to the music industry during the

push the boundaries of our industry to better serve talent and

Midem Music Awards.

creativity on a global scale.

“In terms of knowledge-sharing, Midem is a three-year business school course condensed into four days, which is why we are so proud to provide Midem participants with the opportunity to listen to and interact with Scooter Braun.”

Successful projects include its first documentary film, Never Say Never, while Braun was an executive producer on the hit CBS show Scorpion, which is currently in its fourth season.

In addition, SB Projects’s tech incubator, Silent Labs, holds investments in Uber, Spotify, Songza, Casper, Waze, and Pinterest, among other companies.

Braun serves on the board of Pencils of Promise and Fuck Cancer and, through his artists and companies, he has helped grant wishes for Make-A-Wish.

In 2017, Braun was the driving force behind the One Love Manchester

Scooter Braun

benefit concert and the Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Relief telethon.

Need to know who is touring Europe?

Go online - www.vip-booking.com vip-booking.com

8

®

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

JANUARY 2018

UK Political Activity as Government takes Music Business Seriously!

Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com The New Year has kicked off in active mode

Metallica

with the UK Government having much to say about the present and future state of the UK’s live music industry. Possibly this interest is stimulated by the results of a recent report indicating that UK’s live entertainment industry has hit new highs with the sector taking £17bn in revenues last year with analysts predicting further growth for 2018.

Various tours including U2, Guns N’Roses and Metallica’s breaking of attendance figures at the O2 have added to these record figures, although they are not based

festivals, sports events, and live tours of TV

including major tours by Micky Flanagan

on income from the concert business alone.

shows including The X Factor – is forecast to

and Ricky Gervais.

However concert going is the largest part

surge by another £400m.

of the live performance sector, accounting

Globally, Live Nation’s ticket sales were up

for more than half of the total revenues,

The number of shows staged in the UK

20% to more than 80m, according to its

we’ll all be glad to know! Revenue from

grew significantly, with Live Nation, owners

most recent figures published in October.

live

concerts

of Ticketmaster, reporting a record year in

or the theatre, hit £2.1bn last year with

performances,

including

the UK, with a 44% increase in the number

Dan

expectations of a 7% growth this year,

of shows for which it sold tickets. “This

entertainment at the producers of the report,

according to a report from Deloitte. Growth

isn’t just limited to one particular genre,

Deloitte, stated, “Some commentators may

is expected to continue this year as the live

all events are performing well,” said Denis

have prematurely sounded the death knell

economy – which includes part.returns from

Desmond, the chair of Live Nation UK, also

for live attendances. Live content and events

cinema visits to attending music and arts

pointing to comedy, which had a big year

are thriving in a digital world.”

Ison,

the

head

of

media

and

Government Moves To Adopt Agent Of Change

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So, possibly encouraged by the Deloitte

A

stated,

authorities are legally bound to comply with,

report, on 18th January the Government

“Housing developers building new homes

Government

press

release

will now be clarified to include detailed

announced that Planning policy is to be

near music venues should be responsible for

reference to the ‘Agent of Change’ principle,

amended to protect Britain’s Grassroots

addressing noise issues in a move to protect

and will be consulted on in spring. The move

Music Venues by adopting Agent of Change

both music venues and their neighbours the

means developers will be responsible for

into The National Planning Policy Framework

Housing Secretary has said. The National

identifying and solving any sound problems,

- finally!

Planning Policy Framework, which local

if granted permission to build, and avoid

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

JANUARY 2018

music venues, community and sports clubs

that the burden is on long-standing music

and even churches running into expensive

venues to solve noise issues when property

issues as a result of complaints from new

developers choose to build nearby. That’s

neighbours.”

why I consulted on this in February last year as part of the housing white paper. I am

A statement from Housing Secretary Sajid

pleased to finally have an opportunity to

Javid MP:

right this wrong and also give more peace

Mark Davyd CEO Music Venue Trust

of mind to new residents moving into local “Music venues play a vital role in our

properties.”

communities, bringing people together

were of course more than pleased by the

and contributing to the local economy and

The Music Venue Trust, as regularly

announcement.

supporting the country’s grass roots music

reported in VIP News, have fought long and

said, “Following the huge support for John

culture. I have always thought it unfair

hard for the adoption of this legislation and

Spellar MP’s Private Members Bill, Music

The Trust’s Mark Davyd

Venue Trust warmly welcomes this move by

Sajid Javid MP

the Government to adopt Agent of Change.

Too many of our music venues have been lost to poor developments that haven’t recognised the cultural importance of Grassroots Music Venues. We look forward to working with the Government to ensure that these new measures provide robust protection, which presents clear guidelines for developers and Local Authorities. Music Venue Trust would like to thank our partners at UK Music and Musicians’ Union for their support on this campaign.”

Parliament Spotlight on live sector So, obviously on a roll after the agent

other challenges remain for the grass roots

cut short the previous committee’s inquiry

of change announcement, Parliament’s

music venues, much as everyone agrees

looking into ticket abuse. This inquiry

culture select committee announced it

that this circuit is essential for helping future

launched today will aim to incorporate the

was launching a new inquiry into other

music talent develop and find a fan base.

findings and evidence that were submitted

challenges affecting the British live music industry, especially at the grassroots level.

previously, and MPs will once again invite The new review will cover aspects lincluding

ticket reselling companies such as Viagogo

the status of small music venues, the impact

to contribute evidence”.

A statement read: “The British live music

of music tourism, the potential impact of

industry attracted over 30 million music fans

Brexit on live music (see below), and the

in 2016, with music tourism contributing

link between music education and the live

£4 billion to the UK economy that year.

sector.

However, despite the fact that festival and concert attendance continues to grow, the

Plus secondary ticketing is to be examined –

numbers of grassroots music venues have

again! – continuing the investigation – the

seen a drastic decline”.

one Viagogo didn’t turn up for! The select committee states, “MPs will use this inquiry

Getting agent of change into planning rules

to continue investigating [the ticket touting]

is a very good step forward - but - plenty of

problem, since the 2017 General Election

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

JANUARY 2018

BREXIT We

of

on international touring and our hugely

relationships across the world. It is vital

government moves involving the music

cannot

continue

this

review

successful live music sector. That is why it

that the Government work with industry to

industry without mentioning the dreaded

is welcome that the Select Committee has

maximise this potential if we want to protect

(my words!) Brexit. I note that ILMC 30

acknowledged the need for free movement

and grow the global success story that is

will include a panel on the topic. There has

of people to be retained during any

British music.”

been an MPs’ report on Brexit, UK Music has

transitionary period. Equally, the copyright

responded to this saying it is a “wake-up

framework forms the backbone to the music

call” for the Government and swift action

industry’s £4.4 billion success. So there must

We look forward to the results of all of this

is needed following the publication of the

be guarantees that the protections afforded

activity, and congratulate hard working

Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select

by EU law will be maintained.

lobbyists, such as The Music Venues Trust on securing these positive results from the

Committee into Brexit.

The DCMS Committee’s report focuses

Going forward, post-Brexit does present

Government - we’ll obviously keep you

an opportunity to develop new trading

informed - Watch this Space!

on “the potential impact of Brexit on the creative industries, tourism and the digital single market”.

The key recommendations in the report include: •

The Government should seek to retain free movement of people during any transitional period after 2019

•

The Government should clarify its position on whether EU Intellectual Property should be transposed into UK law

•

If Intellectual Property law is not to be transposed, the Government must develop contingency plans to ensure that the current level of IP protection remain unchanged following the UK’s departure from the EU

•

The Government should clarify how it intends Intellectual Property enforcement should operate after the UK leaves the EU

•

The Government should set out more clearly how post-Brexit trade links can be improved

Commenting, UK Music chief executive Michael Dugher said:

®

“This important report by the influential cross-party DCMS Select Committee is a wake-up call to the Government about the

vip-booking.com

potential threat that Brexit poses.

This includes the damage that costly and

12

bureaucratic

barriers

could

have

- The No 1 Information Resource For The Live Entertainment Industry

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

AEG Presents Launches First Office In France Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com On January 24th AEG Presents, the live

partner, CTS Eventim).

music division of global entertainment

million pound refurbishment completed

company, Anschutz Entertainment Group,

last year, AEG Presents continues to proudly

announced

24th

deliver a level of excellence across the live

Arnaud Meersseman, General Manager and

January) the opening of their first office in

event space in the UK to meet, and often

VP of AEG Presents France said “I’ve worked

France. The creation of an AEG Presents

exceed, the needs of today’s music fans.

with Toby and Steve since they became

today

(Wednesday

Through a multi-

office in the country builds on their already

and look forward to achieving great things together.”

involved in Rock en Seine and I’m very

impressive track record in the UK and marks

The creation of AEG Presents France follows

proud and excited to become part of the

a key expansion into one of Europe’s most

AEG’s significant investment in the Accors

AEG Presents team with this new venture.

important and vibrant markets for live music.

Hotel Arena in Paris, as well as the recent

I have always considered AEG to be best in

Operating out of Paris, the team will be led

acquisition of the highly regarded Rock En

class in developing venues and festivals that

by leading promoting executive, Arnaud

Seine festival (jointly acquired with French

both meet the needs of today’s consumers

Meersseman, who will report directly to the

media investment group, LNEI).

and in the development of the Hyde Park

CEOs of AEG Presents London, Steve Homer and Toby Leighton-Pope.

Meersseman’s

career

in

live

festival build something truly befitting of Steve Homer and Toby Leighton-Pope, joint

the London Park, I am looking forward to

CEO’s AEG Presents said The live music

taking this passion for excellence into the

music

scene in France is incredibly vibrant and one

French market and I’m confident we can do

promotion began in 2004 and has seen

we very much admire and it’s a real privilege

some excellent work with both international

him work with some of the leading music

to be able to set up our Paris office. In

and French artists as the new office gets

promoters in France, staging shows for the

Arnaud we have a highly experienced leader

underway.”

likes of Kendrick Lamar, Lana Del Ray, Major Lazer and A$AP Rocky. In 2016 he became Managing Director of the MIALA/Fimalac group. He begins leading AEG Presents France effective immediately with a remit to develop and grow a promotions business centred on the thriving French music scene, while at the same time actively supporting AEG’s international roster of touring artists.

Since entering the UK market more than a decade ago, AEG Presents have built a strong presence across concert touring, festivals and venues. In 2017 alone, AEG promoted over 800 live events in the UK. Through festivals such as Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park, AEG has brought a new level of worldclass talent and outstanding customer experience to this world-renowned central London location. The venue portfolio for AEG Presents includes the iconic Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith (jointly owned with

Arnaud Meersseman

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VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

Love Parade Trial Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com It is one of the worst tragedies in the history

that none of the police responsible for

The on-going trial is still in its early days

of live music entertainment and still isn’t fully

making relevant decisions was amongst

and receives significant media attention.

resolved in legal terms. The trial considering

those charged.

A current news story in the newspaper

just who was responsible for the decisions

Schwaebische.de covered the experience

that resulted in the the catastrophe in July

According

to

media

reports

in

the

of one of the associated prosecutors

2010 in Duisburg, causing the death of 21

Süddeutsche Zeitung (March 2015), Still

who attended the event as a visitor. The

visitors and injuring more than 600 has

had in fact concluded in one of the early

explanations given by the eyewitness to

been proceeding since December 8.

versions of his expert report that a police

the court still makes horrifying reading,

cordon caused the deadly panic. One year

providing such a graphic picture of the

Accused are six employees of the Duisburg

later this conclusion has been replaced

panic and human tragedies on the site as

City Council and four staff members of

with a sentence, saying that Still refuses to

to leave one shocked and speechless.

the promoter Lopavent. The trial was

speculate about why the police cordon has

demanded following complaints by the

been placed where it was.

The same goes for a video made by

Duisburg prosecution office and accessory

another visitor that previously had been

prosecutors leading to the Higher Regional

On the sixth day of the trial on January 10th

screened in the court, showing in detail

Court of Düsseldorf (OLG) decision that the

this year, defenders submitted a challenge

what happened when the masses could

District Court of Duisburg should institute

against Still on the grounds of bias, arguing

not move out being jammed together on

proceedings.

that among other observations, that Still’s

the ramp that led to the actual festival

expertise wasn’t appropriately conducted,

site. The videos covering the drama are so

Previously the district court refused to take

again

dreadful that they caused a jury member

the trial on, arguing that, besides other

considered the role of the police and that

points, a report by the expert Keith Still did

he took on an assistant who also works

not meet legal requirements. Still’s expertise

for the ministry of interior of Northrhine-

The court has set dates until the end of

was furthermore put in question by

Westphalia in the time when he conducted

2018. The time limit for the case is set for

defenders of the accused who complained

his investigation.

July 27, 2020.

questioning

why

Still

had

not

to start crying.

Love Parade

14

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

SSC Files Insolvency For New Fall Festival Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com Düsseldorf based company SSC Group has filed preliminary

Hamed Shahi Moghanni

insolvency for its subsidy SSC Festival GmbH. Managing director Hamed Shahi Moghanni declared via the trade paper Musikwoche that he expects the festivals New Fall Festival in Düsseldorf and Stuttgart to be continued under this company listing. Apparently the company also owns a stake in the c/o pop festival and Parklive Düsseldorf, a series of free DJ-sets held in public parks.

The company currently acts under protection; former employees have been relocated within the network of companies belonging to the SSC Group GmbH. The edition of the New Fall Festival in Stuttgart has caused protests by local based promoters as the City of Stuttgart granted an annual subsidy of 40.000 Euros for the years 2018 and 2019. The Green Party has filed the application for this. Shahi Moghanni intends to announce the line up for the two events in March.

THE HALL DUO IN NECKARPARK

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Tel. +49 (0) 711/9554-40 Fax +49 (0) 711/9554-500

AZ_in_stutt_VIPbook_2018_RZ.indd 1

info@in.stuttgart.de www.in.stuttgart.de

22.11.17 14:12

15

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

Momentum Fund Supports 20 New Artists Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com · Hak Baker

Both Flohio and Hak Baker were named in

Album Recording and Marketing

The Guardian’s Top 40 newcomers of 2018,

· INHEAVEN

Rina Sawayama in London in Stereo’s New

Album Recording and UK Headline Tour

Sounds of 2018, while Nilufer Yanya was in

· Leon Vynehall

DIY magazine’s Class of 2018.

Debut Album Recording · Litany

The next Momentum showcase and talent

Album Recording and Marketing

development panel will take place at Live at

· Lyla Foy

Leeds on Friday 4th May. Emerging artists

Album Mastering and Marketing

in the area will have the opportunity to get

· Nilufer Yanya

advice and support from industry experts

UK Tour

at The Unconference, which takes place at

· NIMMO

Leeds College of Music and The Wardrobe,

PRS Foundation, Arts Council England,

Debut Album Recording

10am until 6pm, with speakers and panels

PPL and Spotify have revealed the next 20

· Only Girl

TBA. Entry for this event is free but does

artists who will receive support from the

Recording and Production of 2 EPs

require registration. Momentum artists Our

Momentum Music Fund. Momentum has

· Orla Gartland

Girl and Fenne Lily will all be performing

established a reputation for funding and

EP Marketing and Live Development

alongside

spotlighting emerging talent in the UK since

· RALFY

Momentum Music Showcase from 7.30pm

it was created in 2013. The artists, who

EP Recording

on Friday 4th May and The Wardrobe. Entry

have been selected by a network of industry

· Rina Sawayama

to the showcase is free and no ticket is

experts, are:

Single Campaign

required. To see the full Live at Leeds line-

· Suspect

up, buy tickets and see what events are

· Abi Ocia

Music Video Production and Campaigns

happening over the bank holiday weekend

EP Recording and Marketing

· Swimming Tapes

visit www.liveatleeds.com.

· Black Honey

Album Mixing

Album Recording and Single Releases

· Szun Waves

Momentum supported Caro, from Leeds,

· Caro

UK Tour

said, “The Momentum Music Fund will

UK Tour

· Tempa

allow us to continue touring and promoting

· Flohio

EP Mastering and Marketing

our music in this expensive industry. It’s

EP Recording and Release, plus Digital

· Whyte Horses

exciting to have people putting their faith

Content

Album Marketing

in us and we’re very thankful for the help

special

guests

TBA

at

the

along the way. It’s very important for us to

Rina Sawayama

keep the ball rolling and we can make sure of that now with this support.”

Vanessa Reed, CEO at PRS Foundation said, “The artists selected for this round align perfectly with the name and purpose of this fund - the ‘momentum’ that’s building around their careers is propelling many of them on to the 2018 tip lists and they need some extra investment to take their careers to the next level. It’s encouraging that a few

16

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

artists in this list are already taking their

showcase their music to our global audience

music to audiences overseas - Hak Baker

of 140+ million users.”

and Nilufer Yanya stormed Eurosonic last week, while Flohio has made waves since

Since 2013 the Momentum Music fund

she was a runner-up in our Emerging Talent

has supported over 200 artists, over 90

Competition with Glastonbury Festivals. I

new albums and more than 100 UK tours

look forward to following their next steps.”

totaling over 650 UK live dates. The 2016

Peter Leathem, Chief Executive at PPL

impact report analysing the first three years

commented: “We are extremely excited to

of the fund revealed that every £1 invested

see such a broad spread of artists included

by Momentum has generated £7.46 for the

in this latest Momentum Music Fund

UK music industry.

announcement. Supporting and nurturing Managed

the future of the music industry and we are

Momentum Music fund awards grants of

proud to be continued supporters of the

£5,000-£15,000 using public funding from

and a reward package containing exciting

Momentum Music Fund.”

Arts Council England and support from

promotional opportunities and a close

PPL. Spotify, the official digital partner on

working relationship between Momentum

the fund, contributes additional funding

artists and the Spotify team.

Ben Lane, Music lead at Arts Council

by

PRS

Foundation,

the

Peter Leathem

emerging talent is crucial in safeguarding

England said: “Many congratulations to all of the successful artists in this latest funding round of Momentum, it will make a real difference to each of them. We look forward to seeing the impact this support will have on each of their careers over the coming months and years.”

Bryan

Johnson,

Head

of

Artist

&

Management, International at Spotify said: “Congratulations to the twenty artists selected for this round of Momentum Funding! We look forward to working with all artists and their teams, and providing them with the platform, tools and opportunities to expand their fanbase and

Vaness Reed

17

VIP NEWS >

JANUARY 2018

Hamburg awards its live music branch Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com The City of Hamburg together with the Clubkombinat honours its

Award handed out prizes in ten categories based on the votes of

local live music branch. The eighth edition of the Hamburg club

180 jury members in the Docks venue on January 25.

The winners are:

Venue of the year with the most innovative concert programme: Hafenklang - www.hafenkl ang.com Venue of the year for the support of newcomers: Astra Stube - www.astra-s tube.de Concert of the year: Trettmann on October 10.

2017 in the Uebel & Gefährlich - www.uebelun dgefaehrlich.com Best New Club in Town Nochtwache - www.noch tspeicher.de/ nochtwache Best local promoter OHA Music - www.oha-m usic.com Club event of the year Moloch, „200 Jahre Kunst verein trifft 21 Jahre Equinox Subversion“ (22.-24 .09.)

- www.moloch.de

Festival of the year FABRIQUE im Gängeviert el, 8 Jahre Gängeviertel (24.-27. August 2017) - www.das-gaengeviertel.i nfo Person of the year Karl-Hermann Günther for his engagement and involvement in the venues Grossen Freiheit 36, Kaiserkeller, Galeria 36, Do cks and Prinzenbar Anti-Award “Broken Gu itar” Towards all the people wh o filed complaints regarding noise emission s Audience price for the be st club Moloch - www.www.molo ch.de For further information on

Clubkombinat Hamburg please check: www.clubkombinat.de

Winners at Clubawards

Hafenklang

18

16/17/18/19 JAN 2019 GRONINGEN NL

!

U O Y K THAN !

9 1 0 2 S N S E T A U O Y EE

S

THE EUROPEAN MUSIC PLATFORM

VIP NEWS >

NAMES & JOBS

JANUARY 2018

Geoff Meall joins Coda Agency

New Chariman at Svensk Live

From VIP-Daily News

From VIP-Daily News

Geoff Meall, who left his role as head of United Talent Agency

Andréa Wiktorsson has been named chairman of Swedish promoters’

(UTA)’s London office at the end of 2017, has confirmed his move

association Svensk Live.

to Coda Agency.

At the Svensk Live Annual General Meeting in Norrköping on Meall, who has worked with acts including Muse, Paramore and

Wednesday, Andréa Wiktorsson was appointed as new Chairman

Foals, joined Neil Warnock`s The Agency Group (TAG) in 1992. TAG

following Per Alexanderson. Andréa is the CEO and Bookier of

was acquired by US-based UTA (United Talent Agency) in 2015.

Storsjöyran Festival.

“I’m delighted to start the next chapter of my agency life” said

The interest for Live music is huge. In 2016, live music in Sweden

Meall. “Once I made the decision to make a move there was only

traded SEK 5.5 billion and is the fastest growing part of the music

really one choice - CODA in my opinion are the most dynamic agency

industry. At the same time, many pop organizers struggle with

in the business. Their A&R signings and successes over the last few

difficult finances. Working for better conditions must be a priority

years have been unparalleled.

issue next year, says Andréa Wiktorsson.

They have the benefits of their partnerships with Paradigm, X-ray

Svensk Live has around 200 members within concert organizers,

and ITG yet retain a maverick and independent culture. It’s also a fun

festivals, clubs, music associations, cultural centers and theme parks

place to work and that should always be the first priority! I’m excited

throughout the country.

to be part of the future of Coda.”

Board members in Swedish Live 2018 are: Alex Hardee, partner at Coda, said: “Its fills us with great pride

Andréa Wiktorsson, Chairman, Storsjöyran.

that someone of Geoff’s experience, influence, and standing in the

Patrick Fredriksson, Vice Chairman, Luger.

music industry has joined Coda. He will bring a breadth of musical

Anders Larsson, United Stage.

knowledge to Coda that will only compliment and strengthen the

Kajsa Apelqvist, FKP Scorpio.

existing management team. It’s a shame he is a Scouser otherwise it

Lovisa Delehag, Flash & Co.

would have been the perfect addition.”

Marita Isaksson, Young Organizer Network.

Mattias Rudén, Heaven Up Here.

He becomes the second high-profile agent to exit the UTA`s UK

Mikael Lindevall, Debaser.

business in little over a year following the departure of Natasha Bent,

Elisabeth Rosenbrand, The Power of Music.

who also joined Coda in 2016.

Pelle Andersson, Dalapop.

Geoff Meall

20

Andréa Wiktorsson

VIP NEWS > BUSINESS >

MUSIC IN SHARES

JANUARY 2018

Music In Shares Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com

CTS Eventim - Easily peaking more than 40 Euro At the beginning of November the share was still at 35.43 Euro, on January 25 the price was 41.14 Euro, even peaking at 41.60 Euro, meanwhile a new all-time high...

DEAG - Gradually recovering Still not where the share was one year ago when the price was 3.39 Euro. Anyhow this time it is 2.97 Euro...

Live Nation - A True Prospering Live Music Blue Chip $27.91 one year ago, this time its $45.16, an increase of more than 61 per cent within just one year...

Spotify files to go public From VIP-Daily News Spotify is planning to go public on the New

early as October, but still didn`t have SEC

Axios previously reported some details,

York Stock Exchange in the first quarter of

clearance.

citing unnamed sources, including that

2018. The confidential documents were filed with the SEC last month.

Spotify filed IPO documents in December Once Spotify obtained that clearance, it

for a public offering, citing unnamed

was able to file an F-1, an SEC document

sources.

In the past, sources have said that Spotify

for foreign private issuers that serves as a

would put a direct listing on the NYSE

catchall for first-time security offerings.

sometime during the fourth quarter of

A direct listing is slightly different than a traditional IPO. During an IPO, the company

2017 or first quarter of 2018, assisted

Spotify, which was founded in Stockholm,

offers investors shares first, which allows

by Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs,

initially thought that it may not need to do

underwriters to set an initial price. A

and Allen & Co. On Wednesday, sources

a quiet period or a traditional F-1. But as

direct listing allows investors to buy shares

added that Spotify had been trying to

part of the SEC clearance process, it now

only through the open market, with no

confidentially file in the fourth quarter, as

needs both, sources said.

predetermined price.

21

VIP NEWS > MISC >

JANUARY 2018

MEMBER PRESENTATION

ARTIST AVAILS PHIL RUDD BAND (EX AC/DC) Territory: Europe, Ukraine & Russia Period: May / June 2018 Agency: Fizzion Agent: Ian Smith Phone: +44 77 9169 9889 E-mail: ian@frusion.co.uk Homepage: www.www.fizzion.eu/artist.php?id=139

Akum Agency is an independent agency, promoter and creative production company founded by Jess White.

Our aim is…

FIREHOUSE Territory: UK, Europe, Asia Period: November/December 2018 Agency: ARM Entertainment Agent: Dana Strutz Phone: +1 651 483 8754 E-mail: ds@armentertainment.com Homepage: www.armentertainment.com/firehouse

- To ensure artists grow and develop, achieving their aspirations by being provided a high quality service.

- To ensure artists are given freedom and flexibility to develop the best possible work.

- To nurture artists and events within contemporary cross-cultural borders.

- To produce diverse and exciting events.

- To push boundaries and develop new ideas.

We work with artists that we love. We aim to nurture their respective talents and build their profile to national and international audiences. Working with small and big agencies, we promote shows in the best venues for the artist and its audience.

In Australia and around the globe we have strong relationships with some of the world’s finest music and art festivals.

We provide a comprehensive booking service to promote successful shows and tours including: tour management, including: travel, immigration, contracts, venue liaison and hospitality.

CARMEL Territory: Europe Period: 2018 Agency: Artistagency Agent: Bart Quintens Phone: +32 777670 E-mail: bart@artistagency.be Homepage: www.artistagency.be

FARFLUNG Territory: Europe Period: Jan & Feb Agency: IBD Agent: Sabine Phone: +49 (0) 8202 9049870 E-mail: info@ibdbooking.de Homepage: www.facebook.com/search/ top/?q=farflung%20(official%20site)

SMOKIE Territory: Worldwide Period: 2019 Agency: NOW Music Co Agent: Jason Phone: +44 (0)1484723557 E-mail: jason@now-music.com

We love to create and produce shows with exciting and diverse line-ups, which break boundaries and cross-cultural borders.

Based in Maputo, Mozambique but working across the globe.

THE SHEILA DIVINE Territory: Europe Period: May 2018 Agency: Artistagency.be Agent: Bart Quintens Phone: +32 16777670 E-mail: bart@artistagency.be Homepage: www.artistagency.be

About Our Company VIP-Booking’s core product is the largest­database­for the European Live Entertainment Industry www.vip-booking.com­developed as a tool for industry professionals­. Since it’s launch in the year 2000, we have consistently offered our subscribers the very best in database services and now boast subscribers­in over 30 countries.

MORE ARTIST AVAILS ON: WWW.VIP-BOOKING.COM POST YOUR ARTIST AVAILS ON: WWW.VIP-BOOKING.COM

®

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22