4
15 9 6 13
PREMIUM > VOLUME 241 > FEBRUARY 2021
10 19
21
18 5 2 12
8
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Reflection and change
Peter Briggs er - VIP-Bookin g.com
General Manag
If there’s one thing the pandemic has
At VIP-Booking.com we’ve been constantly
The first edition was sent out earlier this
given us it’s time! Time to reflect on the
adding new content and services for our
week and includes a very interesting chat
way we do things, how we live our lives,
members. From being one of the first to
with two of the most down to earth agents
what’s important to us and what changes
organise online panels in April last year
around: Jon Ollier (Ed Sheeran, Annie-
we ought to be making in order to make
to continuously keeping up to date with
Marie, 2Cellos etc.) and Natasha Gregory
both our private and working lives better. In
all the changes happening in our business
(First Aid Kit, Amy Macdonald, Idles etc.),
other words, this is our chance to all come
with both news and database updates. One
who’ve both recently left major agencies to
back as better versions of ourselves.
could definitely say that it’s never made
go independent. Amongst the many topics
more sense to have access to VIP-Booking.
covered you’ll find out which event Jon
com than now!
can’t wait to attend, why Natasha insists on a No BS policy and what Jon and Natasha
You’ll notice that this issue has a new
most admire about each other’s work.
fresher design which makes it easier for you
COLOPHON >
to scroll through the headlines and click
Jon and Natasha are two great examples
through to articles of interest.
of people who’ve made the best out of a bad situation by embracing the new
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 Charlie Presburg cp@vip-booking.com +44 (0) 7980 817496
2
Another new launch which we’re very proud
opportunities put in front of them and
of is our new podcast series: WE TALK : LIVE
making the changes necessary for both
MUSiC. For this we’re very happy to be bring
them and their clients to get the best out
our long term friend Paul Cheetham onboard
of the future.
who will be our host. Many of you will know Paul from his time at Live Nation, AEG
For those of you who missed the podcast
Europe, Berlin Music Week and Reeperbahn
earlier this week, you can listen by clicking the
Festival etc. Paul’s inside knowledge from
play button below. Look out for forthcoming
working in many areas of the business and
episodes over the coming months.
his relaxed approach certainly brings out the best in our guests.
We hope you enjoy this newsletter.
HOW TO USE
1
Search our Artist data base to find Agent and Manager details:
VIP-Booking.com for Venues/Promoters
2
Fan Use VIP Analytics to measure the interest for the Artist:
3
Check o ur T where th ourdates sectio n to see e Artist is booke d near y ou:
®
The No. 1 information resource for the European Live Entertainment Industry vip-booking.com
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Report: 85% consider leaving the UK night time industry From VIP-Daily News
The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the UK Night Time
The report, entitled ‘Covid-19 and UK Nightlife’, looked at the
Economy, a cross-party group of more than 40 MPs, has published
impact of the pandemic and Government support for businesses
the findings of its recent inquiry into the impact of Covid which warns
in the night time economy, including night clubs, bars, pubs, live
that the sector is at risk of ‘extinction’ unless the Government takes
music venues, festivals, and supply chain businesses. It involved
urgent action.
a survey which received over 20,000 responses from consumers, employers, employees, and freelancers in the sector.Key findings of
The MPs urge the Prime Minister and Chancellor to bring forward a
the survey included:
sector-specific grant package and a detailed roadmap for reopening the sector to avoid ‘irreversible losses’ that would create ‘ghost
85 per cent of people working in the night time economy are
towns’ across country and hinder the wider economic recovery.
considering leaving the industry.
Jeff Smith MP, Chair of the APPG
78 per cent of all employees in the sector had at some point been on furlough. Businesses in the night time economy had on average made 37 per cent of their total workforce redundant. In the second half of 2020, businesses in the night time economy traded at an average of 28 per cent of their annualised pre-Covid turnover. Only 36% self-employed nightlife workers have been able to claim the Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS).In addition, the report includes numerous detailed personal testimonies of those in the sector describing how the pandemic has affected them.
4
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Outside of periods of forced closure, night time economy businesses
Michael Kill
have seen numerous and changing restrictions on their ability to trade, including curfews, social distancing measures like the ‘rule of six’, the loss of vertical drinking, and requirements for a ‘substantial meal’ with alcohol. Businesses have faced significant costs and investments in adapting to new conditions, and many, including a majority of nightclubs, have been unable to trade at all. The inquiry examined written submissions from hundreds of businesses and local authorities, including the Greater London Authority and Greater Manchester Combined Authority, key trade bodies UK Hospitality and UK Music as well as the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS). The joint DCMS-BEIS submission recognised the importance of nightlife to the economy as a whole, noting that after the 2008 financial crisis the sector “helped drive the UK’s recovery more generally.” Despite this, the inquiry found that economic support for the night time economy had been “insufficient”, containing significant gaps.
Expanding eligibility for Government Grant Schemes and Jeff Smith MP, Chair of the APPG and a former self-employed DJ,
proving a sector-specific support package.
warned that the prospect of many night time economy businesses going bust would leave town and city centres across the country
Providing a Government-backed insurance schemes and
looking like ‘ghost towns’, noting the important role these spaces
solutions to spiralling commercial rent arrears.
play in local economies and communities. He commented:
Introducing a Treasury-backed scheme to boost demand once restrictions are eased.
“Our world-leading night clubs, pubs, bars, and live music venues are cornerstones of our communities. They drive so much
Appointing a UK Government Night Time Economy advisor.
economic activity both locally and nationally, and bring hope, joy and entertainment to millions across the UK. Our findings today
Michael Kill (pictured), CEO of the Night Time Industries Association,
reveal this industry is on its knees, in desperate need of additional
commented:
support from the Government and a concrete plan for reopening. Without these interventions, many of these viable businesses will
“We are pleased to support the APPG for the Night Time Economy
go under, leaving city and town centres resembling ghost towns.
when it became clear our industry’s needs weren’t being heard by
If the Government is serious about its ‘levelling up’ agenda it must
policy makers. But it gives me no pleasure today to announce the
act now to save this sector and avoid untold damage to the social
findings of this report, which confirm the devastating impact that the
fabric of this country.”
pandemic has had on UK nightlife.
Some of the key recommendations for Government included in the
“Every day I speak with the dedicated people that make up
report were:
this industry – from artists to engineers, bar staff to security, and production to promoters – they have shown great resilience in the
Extending the furlough scheme until businesses can operate
face of adversity.
without restrictions, and extending VAT and business rates relief through 2021.
“But resilience only gets you so far without the required support. We need more assistance and a detailed plan for reopening now.
Producing a roadmap for reopening late night venues based
Otherwise, much of what defines a night out in the UK will be
on the vaccination programme and mass testing.
lost forever.”
5
>
FEBRUARY 2021
France’s summer festivals to go ahead with low capacity From VIP-Daily News Summer festivals will be able to go ahead
Jean-Paul Roland
in France this year despite the enduring Covid-19 crisis, but attendance will be capped at 5,000 people and the public must be seated, the country’s culture ministry said on Thursday. From jazz festivals to outdoor theatre, towns and cities across France host summer festivals, but existing Covid-19 restrictions and a lack of certainty over when the pandemic will end left organisers demanding clarity from the government. “It is essential that we give visibility to our festival organisers who, early in the year, must decide whether to proceed and in what
The rules will apply to indoor and outdoor
But another festival, the Vieilles Charrues
format, even if the pandemic will continue to
events.
festival, attended by 270,000 spectators in
create uncertainty,” the culture ministry said in a statement.
2019, will go ahead despite the restrictions. Reactions to the government`s announcement from festival organisers were mixed.
“We’ll adapt. It won’t be a silent summer in Carhaix (the town in Brittany where the
“We’re in shock,” said Jean-Paul Roland
event takes place), it will be the summer of
(pictured), director of the Eurockéennes
getting back together,” the festival’s director,
festival and representative of Prodiss (the
Jérôme Tréhorel, told AFP.
national union of producers, broadcasters, festivals and theatres in the private sector)
“I was very worried that there would be
to France24.
no announcement by the government at all or that the summer festivals would be
“The We Love Green festival (in the Paris
banned,” he said.
area in June) surveyed its festival-goers and the responses were clear, 85% of those
Currently, there is a nightly curfew in place
polled said they would not come if the public
in France from 6 pm to 6 am. Restaurants,
had to be seated,” Roland said.
bars, museums, theatres and concert halls are all closed. Gatherings are limited to
The Eurockéennes, a festival scheduled for
1,000 people.
the beginning of July, gathered 128,000 people in 2019 (it was canceled in 2020, like
If the health crisis deteriorated, the cap on
most music festivals). The festival had already
attendees and other safety protocols would
announced its lineup for 2021, featuring
have to be modified, the ministry said.
international stars like Muse, DJ Snake and
The Vieilles Charrues festival
6
Massive Attack. “With 5,000 people, that
A 30 million fund will be made available
would be impossible, what artist would
to compensate festivals that have to make
accept to attend?” he said.
changes or cancel their plans, it added.
LIVE MUSIC’S GLOBAL GATHERING REBOOTS TO A NEW VIRTUAL REALITY SUPPORTED BY PL AT IN U M
GOLD
S I LV E R
A S S O CI AT E
FE AT U R E
SHOWCASE
ILMC33_Trade_Ad_A4_FEB.indd 1
MEDIA
18/02/2021 15:41
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Rob Prinz steps down as ICM Partners restructure From VIP-Daily News Mark Siegel has been named Head of
long-time agent of many legendary clients,
Worldwide Concerts, Robert Gibbs will
he has also made it a point to continuously
now serve as Head of Music and London
mentor and develop young agents who
based Matt Bates has been named Head of
have gone on to have incredibly successful
International/Head of Europe.
careers of their own. Robert Gibbs, who is based in Los Angeles, is a Partner and
Former ICM Partners Worldwide Concerts
14-year veteran of ICM. He was promoted
Head Rob Prinz will return his full attention
to Head of Contemporary Music this past
toward being an agent for his star clients,
August and now takes on Siegel’s previous
including Jerry Seinfeld.
title as Head of Music. Gibbs is the highest ranking African American Music Executive in the Agency Business. Matt Bates, who
right, I am grateful to him for the job he
along with Peter Elliot and Ben Winchester
has done helping to grow and mentor the
each remain on the Primary International
next generation of leaders and position the
Board, is a 15-year veteran of Primary and
department for continued success and even
has been on its board since 2014.
further growth,” said Silbermann.
“Mark Siegel, Robert Gibbs and Matt Bates
The division has also established a Concerts
are universally respected within our agency
Leadership Committee, which will focus on
and the music business at large,” said
keeping the department on the cutting edge
Silbermann. “Through their hard work and
of the industry, while also identifying and
dedication to their clients and the team here
grooming a new generation of department
at ICM, they epitomize the true meaning of
talent. The committee includes agents
leading by example.”
Jacqueline Reynolds-Drumm, Yves C. Pierre, Ari Bernstein and Mitch Blackman, all of
Rob Prinz
Rob Prinz led a remarkable growth year
whom have been recognized as industry
for ICM Partners that began with the
leaders by Billboard.
partnership with London based Primary Steve Levine will remain Co-Head of
Talent International in March, followed by
“We have empowered a talented, diverse
Worldwide Concerts. Levine has been part
the recruitment and signing of 9 top music
and forward-thinking leadership team to
of the leadership of the ICM Concerts
agents mostly from WME and Paradigm,
best represent our clients and reap the
Division for over 20 years. He is a founding
including Pete Nash, Ron Kaplan, Garry
rewards of the investments we have made in
partner and board member of ICM Partners.
Buck, Simon Clarkson, Dave Kaplan, Alex
the live events business. We are all looking
Peter Elliot, remains Managing Director
Buck, Paul Gongaware, Randall Uritsky and
forward to a booming 2022 and beyond
of
while
Emily Yoon, who collectively have added
as the audience returns to experience the
Scott Mantell will remain co-head of ICM
an extensive and impressive list of client to
artists and concerts they love and have
International based in Los Angeles.
ICM’s roster.
greatly missed. This diverse team combines
Mark Siegel is a New York based Partner
“Rob did an outstanding job leading our
thinking next generation enthusiasm, giving
who has been with ICM for more than 25
aggressive growth strategy in 2020 and
our clients a dynamic leadership team and
years. For the last six years he has been Head
for that we are very grateful. He and I have
representation department built not only
of Music and now takes on Prinz’s title as
been discussing his desire to move back
for success today, but into the future.”
Head of Worldwide Concerts. Throughout
to becoming a full-time agent for a while
Chris Silbermann continued his thoughts on
his career, Siegel has not only been the
and while we both now feel that the time
the new Concerts Division leadership team.
Primary
Talent
International,
the wisdom of experience with a forward
8
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Said Mark Siegel “I am extremely humbled and excited to be given the opportunity to
Mark Siegel
step into a new role within ICM Concerts. Chris Silbermann and Rob Prinz led the charge over the past year to grow our division and lay the foundation for ICM Concerts to be a leader in the industry for years to come. We have created a talented, diverse, and forwardthinking leadership team who I am proud to work alongside in our commitment to best represent our incredible clients. They are the reason we strive every day to be better than yesterday and I cannot think of a better group of agents, assistants and support staff who display their commitment and passion daily to that end. As I step into this new role, I do so knowing I am surrounded by an incredible team, including my partners Steve Levine, Rob Gibbs and Matt Bates, and I am eager to continue the work that has propelled this department forward. I am equally excited to work with Jacqui, Yves, Ari and Mitch as they step into an active leadership role. To Rob Prinz, my colleague but more importantly my friend, thank you for your tireless work and leadership, especially over the past year, which resulted in the tremendous growth of our department. I look
Robert Gibbs
forward to continuing to have you as a partner and a colleague for years to come.” Said Robert Gibbs “I am proud to work with Mark, Steve and Matt to lead this division and equally excited to work with our Next Gen Leaders, Jacqui, Yves, Ari and Mitch, who will help energize the entire concerts division. We pride ourselves on our culture and values as well as a client first dedication to the representation business, the only business we are in.” Said Matt Bates “Since Primary joined with ICM 12 months ago, the support and vision I have seen from Chris Silbermann has been exceptional, which is reflected in the department’s growth and expansion. The foundation Rob Prinz built in the concert division has left ICM in a formidable position from which to navigate the exciting new world of live music, which is about to open up globally. I am looking forward to working alongside Mark Siegel and Rob Gibbs in their new roles and our incredible team of agents who will lead ICM to the forefront of the live music business.” Said Rob Prinz “Working with this group as a team leader to help take the Concerts Dept to where we are today has been incredibly rewarding. Collaborating with Chris Silberman has been the best experience I’ve had at any of the major agencies I’ve been fortunate to work at. We saw eye to eye on every strategic move and its timing straight down the line which really was the catalyst for our growth. I look forward to ongoing work with our incredible clients and supporting the team to maintain the trajectory we are now on.”
Matt Bates
9
>
FEBRUARY 2021
CTS Eventim acquires majority stake in DreamHaus From VIP-Daily News CTS Eventim has acquired a majority interest in a new Berlin-based concert agency, DreamHaus. As part of the move, Matt Schwarz (pictured) will become the chief executive and managing partner of DreamHaus, after previously holding positions as chief operating officer
Ring and Rock im Park festivals, starting from
and managing director at Live Nation GSA
the 2022 editions.
(Germany, Switzerland, Austria). Klaus-Peter Schulenberg, chief executive In January this year, Schwarz teamed up
of CTS Eventim, said: “Even in the face of
jointly implementing our visions within this
Eventim as head of eventimpresents and was
the challenges posed by the coronavirus
partnership and thus offering artists the best
tasked with acquiring attractive national and
pandemic, Eventim Live continues to grow
possible service and the ability to reach the
international tours and shows on behalf of
its network and strengthen both its market
greatest possible audience.”
Eventim Live.
position and potential. We have always
DreamHaus will later form part of Eventim Live,
the
German
entertainment
firm’s
ticketing unified
and
The acquisition of DreamHaus expands
stronger from this crisis.”
Eventim Live’s pan-European network to 35
live
promoter
network.
promoters in 15 countries. Schwarz added: “I’m very pleased about the partnership between CTS Eventim
The announcement follows yesterday’s news
and DreamHaus, which offers our team all
from the German ticketing firm that it has
Under the agreement, DreamHaus will be
manner of opportunities for a successful
expanded its business operations in Israel
jointly responsible with eventimpresents for
future. I am also grateful to CTS Eventim for
through a joint venture with promoters
organising and programming the Rock am
the confidence the company has shown in
Zappa Group.
Matt Schwarz
10
claimed that CTS Eventim will emerge
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Vaccinated Israelis can now go to concerts From VIP-Daily News Finally parts of cultural life in Israel has
March they also have access to restaurants
But it is also the country that has come the
reopened. Those who have been vaccinated
and bars.
furthest in vaccinating the population.
“This is the first step towards an almost
Israel has administered at least one dose of
normal life,” said Health Minister Yuli
the Pfizer Inc vaccine to more than 45% of
While shops were open to all, access to
Edelstein, who has previously called it a
its 9 million population, the Health Ministry
leisure sites like gyms and theatres was
moral duty to be vaccinated. According to
says. The two-shot regimen has reduced
limited to vaccinees or those who have
the Jerusalem Post, Israel is the country that
COVID-19 infections by 95.8%, ministry
recovered from the disease with presumed
has spent the longest time in lockdown.
data showed.
against corona can now go to concerts, while others have to wait.
immunity, a so-called “Green Pass” status displayed on a special Health Ministry app. Social distancing measures were still in force. Dancing was barred at banquet halls, and synagogues, mosques or churches were required to halve their normal number of worshippers. People get their passports one week after they have been vaccinated or if they have recovered from coronavirus. From yesterday, those who have such a passport will have access to gyms, cultural events, swimming pools, hotels and synagogues,
Israel ready to open for concerts again
writes the newspaper Jerusalem Post. From
Industry heads to discuss survival and restart of the global business at virtual ILMC From VIP-Daily News Hundreds of leading figures from across the
Eventim), industry commentator Bob Lefsetz,
around the world are pushing forward with
global live music business are contributing
Emma Banks (CAA), Tim Leiweke (Oak View
plans to reopen. This is a crucial moment to
to the first virtual edition of the International
Group), Jason Danter (Lady Gaga/Madonna),
bring the global live music business together
Live Music Conference (ILMC) next week. The
Lucy Dickins (WME), Pandora founder
to define its restart.”
conference schedule now features the largest
Tim Westergren, Sam Kirby Yoh (UTA) and
line up of guest speakers at any live music
Mumford & Sons’ Ben Lovett.
conference ever. More than 250 speakers and 1,000 delegates will be in attendance.
The 33rd edition of the top global platform for
concert
and
festival
professionals
ILMC head Greg Parmley says: “This edition
features 60+ meetings, workshops and
of ILMC will mark one year since the live
keynotes across three days, alongside 50
Confirmed executives include Irving Azoff
music business began to shut due to
showcases from new artists, presented by
(Azoff Music), Klaus-Peter Schulenberg (CTS
COVID-19, and it takes place just as markets
top booking agencies and export offices.
11
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Within the ILMC schedule, new event brand
debate, and the Green Events & Innovations
PULSE is a day of discussion around the
Conference
intersection of technology and live music,
AGreenerFestival, focuses on sustainable
and The Experience Economy Meeting
events with an extensive programme.
(GEI),
presented
with
(TEEM) focuses on non-music content. Companies supporting ILMC 33 include Live The Arthur Awards – the live music industry’s
Immediately prior to ILMC on 2 March,
Nation, Ticketmaster, CTS Eventim, ASM
Oscar-equivalents – will stream live from the
daughter
Production
Global, Showsec, Tysers, Hearby & Semmel
stage of the Royal Albert Hall as the iconic
Meeting (IPM) welcomes leading touring
Concerts. The full schedule and details of all
venue celebrates its 150th anniversary.
and production professionals for a day of
sessions and speakers are at 33.ilmc.com.
event
the
ILMC
Former Austrian promoter Erich Zawinul dies aged 55 From VIP-Daily News Erich was born in New York to the jazz artist Joe Zawinul and an Austrian mother. His father Joe who passed away in 2007 was a very well renowned and respected jazz keyboard player who had worked with the likes of Miles Davis, Herbie Mann and Weather Report. Having spent time in Los Angeles and then Oxford, Erich moved to Austria. His first job in the industry was as tour manager for Jimmy Cliff and he later began working at George Leitner Productions (GLP) where he met Richard Hoermann. Whilst working at GLP, he helped produce shows with artists such as Bonnie Tyler and the Chippendale Dancers. Erich said at the time `After working at GLP for a while, Richard and I realized that we had a lot in common, similar perspectives and all and we decided to start our own company`. Zawinul and Hoermann started Artist Marketing of which Erich was a partner until 2002. During that time Artist Marketing produced shows with artists such as Carlos Santana, ZZ Top and Aerosmith. In 2008, the company became part of the Barracuda Group where Erich worked as a booker for some years, he left the group around 2015. He later moved on to become a brand partner for Austrian Tequila company Padre Azul occasionally doing shows for close artist friends. Richard Hoermann: “Erich was a very unique and truly endearing character. He loved music and he lived for the music biz with all his heart, I personally as well as all his many friends all over the world will certainly miss him.”
12
Erich Zawinul
>
FEBRUARY 2021
Finns to produce a several million euro ice show From VIP-Daily News The Finns are to produce a several million
be performed on 1 January, 2 January and
euro ice show of the beloved H. C. Andersen
3 January 2022. This performance brings
fairytale classic “The Snow Queen”, aimed
together the best know-how and talent of
at arenas and arena promoters starving for
synchronized skating, ice skating and ice
family audience content.
hockey, as well as the internationally most esteemed artists and creators of performing
This
audiovisual
extravaganza
brings
together the hottest European figure skating,
arts. Ticket sales will begin on Monday, 22 February.
ice hockey and performing arts talents for a unique family show.
The production features the mythology of Lapland and creates a new form of European
To serve the indoor arenas and arena promoters
art that combines sports and arts. Together
who are starving for exciting, European family
with the artistic group, the internationally
audience content, an international group of
acclaimed Canadian scriptwriter Melissa
performative arts creators and promoters
A. Thompson, also famous for her work at
There is clearly a great demand for ice ballet
have used the covid-19 shutdown crisis to
Cirque du Soleil, will bring out a concept
productions on the market. In Finland, we
create a new, Nordic ice show brand and a
that unites all forms of ice sports. This unique
have a high- level expertise in the field of
grand scale audiovisual show suitable for the
entity is based on a Nordic brand, on nature
ice arts, and it gives us a great foundation
entire family. This new production consisting
and on multitalented know-how of ice arts.
to produce a show like his. With these
of original composed score and a modernized
Paulina Ahokas
performers, artists and partners it has
take on the classic fairytale will premiere at
- The Snow Queen offers the audience
become reality, states Paulina Ahokas,
the brand new Uros Live Arena on New
something that has never been seen in
Managing Director of Tampere Hall and
Year’s Day, 1 January 2022. The show will
Finland or the Nordic countries before.
main producer of the show.
13
ImagIne if you could go to one website and get aLL the contacts you need for the european Live music Industry?
WeLL you Can! www.vip-booking.com
The No 1 Information Resource For The Live Entertainment Industry Having the right tools for the job is often the key to success. We have developed a range of services to meet the demands of agents, promoters, talent buyers, venue bookers etc.
®
145-157 St John Street | London Ec1V 4PW United Kingdom | Phone: +44 (0) 870 755 0092 www.vip-booking.com | vip@vip-booking.com
vip-booking.com
> NEW BIZ >
FEBRUARY 2021
New Company Interview Despite incredibly tough times for all of us in the Live Music Industry and news of layoffs from many of the majors, we are still seeing people taking the big step to launch their own companies and initiatives. VIP-News will be speaking to several of these new entrepreneurs over the coming months to get an insight into their new ventures. has taught everyone that the industry needed a reset with new
Name: Ben Ward Company: Route One Booking Country: Cornwall, UK Type of company: Booking Agency
initiatives and ideas about how we approach our line of work so it’s been very interesting to see various people leave major agencies to go independent. What is/was your biggest concern about starting up your own company?
Gives us a brief update on your career before launching your
Obviously there are many concerns when you start your own
own company?
company, especially a talent booking agency during a worldwide pandemic with all festivals and venues closed! But we saw that as a
I’ve been a founding member and vocalist for the UK heavy metal band Orange Goblin since 1995, touring the world and playing festivals on a regular basis, releasing 9 studio albums to date. I
Ben Ward
worked as assistant to Paul Loasby at One Fifteen Management for 10 years, handling the careers of artists such as David Gilmour and Jools Holland as well as looking after the archives for Pink Floyd and working on reissue campaigns with EMI Records. I then did a few years working as a tour manager and in that time travelled all over North America and Europe before I became a booking agent at United Talent Agency (formerly The Agency Group) in June 2015. I worked there for 5 years before leaving in September 2020 when I started my own agency, Route One Booking. Have you taken on any employees yet and/or planned on growing or is it a one man band? Route One Booking is myself, operating as the head booking agent and director, Jules Chenoweth, also a director/agent/manager and Jack Sutton-Bassett who works as my assistant. We have an accountant within the company but essentially it is a three-man operation at the moment. Obviously there are plans to expand further down the line and we hope to take on more agents when the time is right. Why did you decide to start your own company? Jules and I had discussed the idea of starting our own booking agency for a while and when the Covid pandemic struck the whole live music industry pretty much closed down. I left UTA in September 2020 and with the world still locked down it seemed like the perfect time for me to branch out and start my own venture. I think the pandemic
15
> NEW BIZ >
FEBRUARY 2021
challenge and as mentioned before, the perfect time to start. There
trusting your ears and your instincts and taking pride and satisfaction
are the initial concerns about your clients following you and having
in seeing your artists grow.
that faith in what you are doing, but those were soon put to rest as soon as I spoke with my clients and their managers. A lot of people
How do you see the potential for your company in this
focus on the financial implications, which is only natural, but with
disrupted Live Music industry?
Route One Booking we have focussed more on building the name, the brand and what we can do for our clients, rather than how we
We are basically starting with a clean sheet, which means that we
are going to pay the bills etc. This is a client based industry so we
can build from the ground up and all of our clients have very realistic
need to concentrate on ways to benefit them rather than ourselves
expectations of what we can achieve in the first couple of years. There
and then everything else will take care of itself.
is no pressure on us to deliver anything that isn’t going to be possible. I’m still passionate about working with the clients that I already
Did you bring your full roster with you?
worked with at UTA but at the same time I am very excited about all the new bands we have added to the roster since our formation. As
I was very fortunate that the majority of my clients had a lot of belief
well as the booking side of things we can now offer all of our clients
and trust in me and what I was doing so I probably managed to retain
recording and mastering facilities, digital music distribution, touring
about 80% of my roster, which is a real boost when starting out. I
vehicles, backline, road crew and we are on the brink of launching
don’t believe in really having a priority client or anything like that.
our very own 1000 capacity, fully licensed outdoor venue here in
Every client we have on the roster is a priority for us as we want to see
Cornwall so if festivals aren’t to happen again this summer, we are
talent develop and grow from the grass roots level into international
looking to put on socially distanced shows for our clients ourselves,
headliners at some point. That’s the drive and the passion in this job,
and hopefully full capacity shows when it is safe to do so!
ImagIne if you could go to one website and get aLL the contacts you need for the european Live music Industry?
WeLL you Can! www.vip-booking.com
®
145-157 St John Street | London Ec1V 4PW United Kingdom | Phone: +44 (0) 870 755 0092 www.vip-booking.com | vip@vip-booking.com
16
vip-booking.com
THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY & LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
WEDNESDAY 3 MARCH 2021 TOMMAS ARNBY LOCOMOTION | JULIE BOGAERT FACEBOOK SARA BOLLWINKEL PARADIGM AGENCY YVAN BOUDILLET THELYNK | SHERI BRYANT SANSAR SALIMAH YVETTE EBRAHIM BRAMBLE STUART GILMORE EIGHTH DAY SOUND BRANDON GOODMAN BEST FRIENDS MUSIC NATASHA GREGORY MOTHER ARTISTS STEVEN HANCOCK MELODYVR | MATT HEAFY TRIVIUM GREG HENDERSON NOTETRACKS | PARAM KANABAR NOQ GROUP AIVAR LAAN FANSIFTER | DANNY LEE ASIAN AGENT JUSTIN LUBLINER THE DARKROOM | STEVE MACHIN LIVEFROM.EVENTS MIKE MALAK PARADIGM AGENCY | GARY MARELLA VERZUZ ARJUN MEHTA MOMENT HOUSE | STACIE MILES BRAVADO LESLEY OLENIK LIVE NATION | CHERYL PAGLIERANI UTA VLADIC RAVICH BRAMBLE | TINA RUBIN WAVEVR DANNY RUKASIN BEST FRIENDS MUSIC | RIC SALMON DRIIFT MICHAEL SCHABEL KISWE | FABRICE SERGENT BANDSINTOWN SARAH SLATER TICKETMASTER | JAMES SUTCLIFFE LIVENOW JORDAN UDKO MAESTRO | LARS-OLIVER VOGT LIVE NATION GSA TIM WESTERGREN SESSIONS | WIKTORIA WÓJCIK INSTREAMLY SWEET STREAMS: BEST IN CLASS… THE LIVE-STREAMERS GUIDE TO LIVE MUSIC… THE NEW FAN EXPERIENCE… THE BUSINESS OF LIVE TECH… PULSE NEW TECH PITCHES…
REGISTER AT 33.ILMC.COM
> NEW BIZ >
FEBRUARY 2021
Take Over Interviews The Live and Events Industry has been through a process of consolidation over the past 2 decades. VIPNews will be speaking to several heads of companies who’ve been taken over by the majors over the past months and years to get an insight into what drove them to this decision and what advantages they see for their businesses by being part of a major vs remaining independent. In what ways is it tough for companies to remain independent and still compete
Name: Carsten Svoldgaard Position: CEO Company: CSB Island Entertainment Member of DEAG Group Country: Denmark Type of company: Promoter, Tour agent
with the majors? It is difficult to stand alone, especially with concert artists and in smaller markets such as Scandinavia. Here you can make full use of being able to offer artists and agents a full European tour instead of just 1 concert in
You
were
recently
taken
over
by
the DEAG Group. In addition to being the
each of the 4 Scandinavian countries.
DEAG. Was this a consolidation of an
door to the whole of Scandinavia, we have
already existing relationship and what
20 years experience of making show tours
How important do you think the inde-
are the benefits of being part of a big
all over the world and have produced many
pendent scene is for artist development?
organisation such as DEAG?
shows, both national and international, which we have toured in more than 50
Cannot see it should change anything in
Yes, it started as a good collaboration over
countries to date, which will be a big plus
artist development if you are independent,
some years with great mutual respect for
for the whole DEAG group in the future.
on the contrary, artists can get opportunities
the things we work with. The chemistry
to go beyond national borders by working
of our companies and staff fits together
The
perfectly. It is clear that a large company
general has been through a process of
such as DEAG provides a lot of positive
consolidation over the past 2 decades.
When do you hope shows will return to
opportunities we can take advantage of,
How do you see this trend continuing
some normality in your country?
but we can also add a lot of new things to
post pandemic?
Live
and
Events
Industry
in
with a larger group of companies.
We really hope that we will be allowed Yes,
the
to do minimal seated concerts already
development of merging more live and event
one
can
well
imagine
that
in the month of March. I do not see the
companies will continue for a number of
big problem in being at a concert hall,
years yet. It is clear that a pandemic like the
where everyone is sitting, facing the same
one we are still in the middle of gives rise to
direction and where it is easy to set rules
thinking about the future. Where do we want
and distance. To my knowledge I have not
to go? How do we get there? Do we have to
heard of infection in the concert halls.
work together to achieve the goal? I believe that collaboration and possibly mergers
Is your government providing support,
will provide a shortcut to reach these goals.
such as a cancellation fund, to help you
You can be stubborn and say WE CAN DO
plan ahead? If so what kind of support
IT OURSELVES, or enter into a collaboration
is being offered?
with partners who each have their strengths,
Carsten Svoldgaard
18
and get a lot more out of it. No one can be
In Scandinavia, there is help for our
world champion in everything, so why not
industry but it differs from country to
collaborate and get the opportunity to be the
country. In Denmark, you have options
best on several points.
for help with the daily expenses such
> NEW BIZ >
FEBRUARY 2021
as rent and salaries, you can seek help
There has been an influx of venture
Do you think the Live Industry will
when there is a complete lock down and
capital in the Live Business over a number
return stronger than ever if and when
there is activity compensation which will
of years now. Have we just seen the tip
things get back to normal?
start when the industry opens again. But
of the iceberg and if so is this good for
none of it covers profit, only part of the
the business a whole?
expenses. This is of course a help, but in no
Yes, I am optimistic. I think our industry and restaurants, hotels and all the joy that the
way something you can run your business
It is a natural development, it is not only in
whole world has had to do without over the
on, you have to take from your savings to
our industry, it is global and applies to all
last year, clearly shows that people need to
get through.
industries, an inevitable future.
get out, more than ever in general.
50-75% and we expect to be opened
Name: Ed Ratnikov Company: TCI (Eventim Live) Country: Russian Federation Type of company: Booking, Promotion, Events
completely before the summer 2021. Local artists are already very active. Do you think the Live Industry will return stronger than ever if and when things get back to normal?
You were taken over by CTS at the end
can replace our unique direct contact from
I truly hope so, but it might turn to fear for
of 2019. Was this a consolidation of an
Artist to Audience and that the industry will
some people about being in crowds with
already existing relationship?
continue to consolidate as soon as the world
the risk of getting other kinds of viruses and
gets back to normal. It seems without live
diseases. But I am pretty sure that after a
We had long business relationship with CTS’s
and sport events people don’t have a chance
little while the whole world will forget about
Russian daughter company Parter.ru and our
to use their energy, especially negative
this disaster until another virus or disaster
old partner, Scumeck Sabottka (MCT), also
energy and if people cannot use it - it finds
comes along.
recommended us to Klaus-Peter. We had a
an exit in not so appropriate places, but this
nice meeting in Moscow back in September
is another story.
2018 and started the ball rolling…
In what ways is it tough for companies
What are the benefits of being part of a
to remain independent and still compete
big organisation such as CTS?
with the majors?
In brief, the financial back up and the
Strategy and methods in working. There’s
European level of doing business with
always a place for talented and passionate
European standards etc. Eventim is the best
individuals and companies.
possible partner for continuing TCI’s growth
story long-term. Becoming part of a global
How important do you think the inde-
player opens up additional opportunities for
pendent scene is for artist development?
us and the entire Russian market. The
I guess this is the only way to develop talent. Live
and
Events
Industry
in
The independent scene is always important
general has been through a process of consolidation over the past 2 decades.
When do you hope shows will return to
How do you see this trend continuing
some normality in your country?
post pandemic? Considering Russia’s old Soviet health system I’ve heard many words about a world
was very good – Russia was less hit by COVID
conspiracy and that the world is never going
and the Russian vaccine is working very well.
to be the same, but I am sure that nothing
The Russian market has already opened
Ed Ratnikov
19
>
NAMES & JOBS
FEBRUARY 2021
Various Artists Management Jess Kinn joins One Fiinix Live Promote Rebecca Dixon From VIP-Daily News
From VIP-Daily News
UK based independent live music agency launched at the end of
Various Artists Management whose roster of clients include Ashnikko,
last year by Jon Ollier the award-winning UK booking agent whose
Tom Grennan, Supergrass, Loyle Carner & La Roux among others ,
clients include Ed Sheeran, Anne-Marie, Lauv, 2Cellos and JC Stewart
has promoted Rebecca Dixon to Head of Marketing and Promotions.
among others, has announced its first new agent hire. Rebecca, whose appointment is effective immediately, has been Jess Kinn , whose appointment is effective immediately, joins the
with Various Artists Management for five years and has helped
company from live music streaming specialists LIVENow and was
oversee artist careers as varied as Charli XCX and The Libertines for
previously an agent at Paradigm Agency, where her client base
the company.
included Mallrat, Years & Years and Rebecca Garton. Jess will report directly to Jon Ollier. At this stage it is unclear which of her previous
Reporting directly to Group CEO David Bianchi, Rebecca will oversee
clients will be joining her.
the company’s global marketing and promotions activities and will work between the company’s London and Los Angeles offices once
London born Jess started her career in live music with The Leighton
travel restrictions are lifted.
Pope Organisation before joining Paradigm Agency where she worked her way up from reception to agent. As a booker she worked across
David Bianchi , Group CEO of Various Artists Management, said:
acts including Shawn Mendes, Halsey, Alan Walker and Faithless
“Rebecca joined us straight from University and it has been a huge
before becoming an agent in her own right . In 2018 she was named
pleasure to watch her grow into this role over the last five years.
as LIVE UK`s `Backstage Star` and a Music Week `Rising Star.` In 2020
Rebecca’s energy , passion and creativity will add real value and
she headed up events for LIVENow working on live streams for The
expertise to our roster of artists globally.”
Pete Tong Heritage Orchestra, Gorillaz and the record breaking Dua Lipa Studio 2054 stream.
Rebecca Dixon said, “I`m really excited to take on the position of Head of Marketing & Promotions for Various Artists Management.
Jon Ollier said, “Jess is everything we are looking for as we build our
Having been at the company for 5 years, I`m looking forward to
new business. She is an exciting and forward-thinking talent with a
working with our amazing roster of artists & managers in this new
fantastic reputation, and we are really thrilled to have her join us. I
role . In Ashnikko, Tom Grennan , Sad Night Dynamite, The Libertines,
believe she has a huge future ahead of her and I am excited to be a
Rose Gray & La Roux, we have an array of exceptional talent and we
part of it!”
will continue to build worlds and brands for those artists and their fans while innovating across all genres and platforms.”
Jess Kinn said, “ On my first conversation with Jon we immediately clicked over our shared values and ideas about the future of the live industry. Being part of a growing agency with progressive and
Rebecca Dixon
innovative thinking at its heart is exactly where I want to be in this ever-changing landscape of live events”
Jess Kinn
21
> BUSINESS >
MUSIC IN SHARES
FEBRUARY 2021
Music In Shares Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com
Spotify – More than Double...
This “Music in Shares” column is an
to those people working in the live music
outstanding one. Whilst in particular the live
sector, who are still facing and dealing with
music sector, previously the main income
a nightmare and where the light at the end
The
gainer for the music industry, is suffering
of the tunnel is still not in sight.
are impressive, but at least a bit more
in total misery, it seems that the financial community has apparently already arrived in
share
price’s
rocket
understandable with an increase of 145
CTS Eventim – Almost there
the Post-Covid-Era.
percent, a year ago it stood at $144.4, this time, please take a seat, it stands at $364...
On February 18, 2020 the shares for this
There seem to be two totally different
company stood at 58.40 Euro, on February
Tencent – Another Gainer
worlds,
two
entirely
dimensions
parallel
22, 2021 it is at 56.55 Euro. The twelve
universes. Due to the Corona-Pandemic,
different
months low was 25.54 Euro, the annual loss
From $12.68 it has now risen to $26.90 and
in 2021, the live music industry faces yet
of this one is just 5.5 percent...
with an additional IPO at the Hong Kong
another business year that is far away from
stock market in preparation, it is expected to
any kind of ‘normality’.
DEAG – Pushing the Pull-Back-Button
deliver another $5 billion...
It is not clear when, but the company
Considering all the relevant indicators they
announced an undertaking to de-list itself
are different to those live music folks in that
from the stock market. DEAG together
Since trading at NASDAQ in June 2020, this
they are in both an optimistic and euphoric
with SFX Entertainment, the forerunner
share price now stands at $36.38. However,
mood that is beating all expectations.
of Live Nation, has been a pioneer of the
In consideration of its role as a main content
corporatisation of the live music sector, it
provider for the likes of Spotify and others
Does this make financial resources happy?
undertook its IPO on September 14, 1998. A
streaming platforms it is apparently not
The answer is probably: “Yeah”! It must be
year ago the share price was 4.39 Euro, this
considered to be one of the ultimate winners
better than any known drug, pushing the
time it stands at 3.15 Euro....
of ‘stay at home’ entertainment...
mental level up to a new high. In essence,
it must feel like sitting by a swimming pool
Eventbrite – The Optimus-Bonus
Next One Please: Universal Music Group
all day long whilst being fed champagne and psychedelic substances.
Selling tickets during these times is a challenge. Anyhow a decrease from $22.14
Expected to undertake an IPO in 2021 at the
What do these people think? That the live
to $19.94 indicates hope by investors...
Amsterdam branch of Euronext, Vivendi, the
music business is more profitable than child
current mothership is full of hope to gain
labour? Even if the most optimistic scenarios
Live Nation - The Miracle
$30 billion...
promise a sort of recovery, the live music sector will almost certainly not be back on
A year ago it stood at $74.13 and today it
track in 2021. Unfortunately, this is probably
stands at $88.08, an increase of nearly 14
the most realistic scenario for the near future.
percent. The lowest share price in the last twelve months has been $19.88 (!), this
22
Warner Music – Uninspired
On the other side there are the financial folks.
There are even analysts out there who are
makes Live Nation the most likely scenario
astonished about the current share prices
for recovery, at a time when recovery for
for both CTS Eventim and Live Nation.
the business model of this company is
Nevertheless, the optimism in the investment
still expected to be a little further into the
heaven will hopefully spread sooner or later
future....
> MISC >
MEMBER PRESENTATION
FEBRUARY 2021
This space is dedicated to present some of our clients using VIP-Booking.com. Companies presented here have our best endorsement...
RH-ENTERTAINEMENT OY The Finnish program agency RH-Entertainment has grown into a significant player as an event organizer. In 2019, the company organized over twenty festivals and over 200 concerts. Events organized by the program office include Raskasta Joulua tours, Sauna Open Air Rock festival, and Rock In The City festivals and Soi city festivals. In addition to domestic repertoire, RH-Entertainment Oy has also imported international artists such as Uriah Heep, D-A-D, Tom Jones, Johnny Logan, Whitesnake, Europe and many more. www.rh-entertainment.fi
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 subscribers in over 50 countries.
®
vip-booking.com
23
HOW TO USE
1
Use VIP Analytics to lo cate where your artist has the most in terest:
VIP-Booking.com for Agents/Managers
2
ues Use our Tour Builder to locate ven or agents within a given area:
3
Find the Talent B uyer and relevant other contact s:
®
The No. 1 information resource for the European Live Entertainment Industry vip-booking.com