VIP News Premium - September 2020

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SEPTEMBER 2020

McGowan’s

Musings

Well, whatever opening line I had intended

paragraph of a great article by Ed Barker in

to open this month’s brief musings on coping

The Guardian which I recommend we should

with Covid and looking at the future of live,

all read - including hopefully members of a

has certainly been knocked sideways by the

Government that needs shaking up! …”

quote from Michael Kill, CEO of the UK’s

So let’s not decimate an entire industry, or

Night Time Industries Association.

expect – unfairly and shortsightedly – that musicians and live entertainers can survive

COLOPHON > VIP-News is published by: VIP-Booking.com Enghaven 19 Attrup 8444 Balle Denmark

on their own when they’re told they can’t

to hearing the announcement of the details

go to work. Otherwise we will needlessly

of the Chancellor’s Winter Economy Plan.

create thousands of job losses, rack up the

Difficult to beat that as a headline! But

welfare bill unnecessarily, and undermine

Michael’s observation was followed up by

generations of potential talent. Let’s support

equally disturbed comments from all sectors

musicians and venues today because they

of the live industry, the majority of which

will be instrumental tomorrow, not only in

cannot see how the introduction of a 10pm

getting our country back on its feet again,

curfew, and the Job Protection Scheme can

but in reminding us what life is supposed to

possibly improve a worsening situation for all

be about.” ….

workers and businesses in the sector.

Tough times are getting tougher!

Managing Director: Ronni Didriksen rd@vip-booking.com

The Government claim that the Scheme will save thousands of jobs, but as Mark Davyd

Sorry to be so UK-centric, but that’s where

General Manager: Peter Briggs pb@vip-booking.com

of the Music Venues Trust commented, “Over

I’m living, but hopefully not quarantined - at

2 million people work in the night time

present anyway. Wherever you’re based you

economy, and the Job Protection Scheme has

will no doubt all have your take on how this

done nothing at all to protect their jobs. The

dreadful situation is being handled - let us

government has acted illogically and without

know what you think!

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

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“Shock, Horror and Despair!” was his reaction

reason to make those jobs insecure and unsustainable by imposing a curfew that all

So yet again not much to add in a humorous

the available evidence tells us will not reduce

vein, made worse I’m afraid by the news of

the infection rate of Coronavirus. Because

the death of a very fine man, Danish music

Coronavirus does not own a watch.”

journalist, photographer and radio host Jan Sneum has passed away. I met Jan many

Some very telling observations and comments

times at various international events and

are being made by desperately worried

it was always a pleasure and a privilege to

members of the music industry, this is the last

spend time with him…. RIP

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SEPTEMBER 2020

London’s Dingwalls to re-open as The PowerHaus From VIP-Daily News Seventy-three year old music promoter Vince Power has announced

building a typical practice by businesses during the Victorian era. The

that the iconic Camden Market music venue formerly known as

paint is still visible to this day, and was in fact given a fresh coat a

Dingwall’s will reopen as The PowerHaus.

few years back.

Power confirms that due to copyright problems with the name

And why The PowerHaus? “It used to be the name of one of my

Dingwall’s, the name will no longer be able to be used.

venues in Islington which ran from 1989 until 1995”, says Power.

And some of us may even be old enough to remember a gig or three

That’s a shame as in the 1970s and 80s Dingwall’s was about as hip

there.

as Camden got. The 500-capacity spot opened as Dingwall’s Dance Hall in 1973 and hosted gigs from the likes of The Clash and The Sex

You can’t argue with the pedigree, either. “We had artists such as

Pistols.

Radiohead in 1992, Stone Roses in 1989, Dinosaur Junior, Primal Scream, Blur, Cranberries, Pulp and Flaming Lips.

In the 1990s it became known for the jazz dance club Talkin Loud and Saying Something, run by Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge. And

“I hope to continue in this tradition and have artists of this calibre at

then in the noughties and beyond it played host to bands and artists

The PowerHaus Camden which has been refurbished and is nearly

from Noel Gallagher and Coldplay to Ellie Goulding and George Ezra.

ready to open. It’s not all about the name but I’m sad the name Dingwall’s cannot be used as I have some great memories associated

And as for the quirky name? Why, the original owner of the building,

with it. But we are looking to the future and the future is bright. The

T.E. Dingwall, had his name painted on to the outside wall of the

PowerHaus will probably be the best venue in Camden.”

Vince Power rename Dingwalls

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Roskilde Festival fires every third employee From VIP-Daily News As a direct consequence of the corona crisis, legendary Danish Roskilde Festival has had to cut hard in the organization.

17 employees have been fired, and in total the organization has become about a third smaller as a result of redundancies and job vacancies that have not been extended, according to a press release.

“We are helped by the government`s support package for events in connection with the festival that should have been this summer. But the overall non-profit enterprise is affected financially, and the other help packages cannot help us through to a sufficient degree. Since

“That is why today we have unfortunately been forced to carry out an

the closure earlier this year, we have focused on reducing the cost

organizational adjustment, where 17 employees have lost their jobs.

of job vacancies that have expired. But it is now clear that it is not

It is very unfortunate. “

enough, ”says CEO of the Roskilde Festival group, Signe Lopdrup (pictured), and continues:

The cut in the organization does not mean that Roskilde Festival will not be able to be implemented in 2021, states Signe Lopdrup.

“We maintain a small organization that can lead us through the coming time, and which can still both carry out tasks for our partners and - across employees and volunteers - continue the work with Roskilde Festival in 2021. A large part of the festival is already planned for next summer and is ready to be picked up. So the effort that needs to be made right now is especially about, together with others, investigating how it can again be possible to gather many people safely in this difficult and unpredictable corona time” says the director.

Roskilde Festival group is a non-profit company and the collective name for the Association Roskilde Festival, which is responsible for the event Roskilde Festival, the Roskilde Festival Foundation and the foundatio`s subsidiary Roskilde Kulturservice A / S. The focal point of the non-profit business is the development and execution of Roskilde Festival. In addition, the Roskilde Festival group is behind a number of activities, which are based on the knowledge and competencies acquired through the work with the festival, and which are put into play in other contexts, where the organization helps with advice, event security, gastronomy, experience design, project management and logistics.

Since 1972, Roskilde Festival group has generated around 411 million Danish Kroner which is used for non-profit purposes in

Signe Lopdrup

addition to the earnings that associations and partners have every year at the festival.

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VIP NEWS >

SEPTEMBER 2020

Former WME, Paradigm Agents Launch Mint Talent Group From VIP-Daily News Former Paradigm agents Patrick McAuliff and Phil Egenthal and exWilliam Morris Endeavor agent C. J. Strock have combined to launch Mint Talent Agency.

Founding agents also include Mary Allen and Cassie Siegel, formerly of Madison House, Michael Morris and Ryan Owens, also from Paradigm, former WME agent Peter Wiederlight and Logan Handelsman, most recently with CAA. Mint as a booking agency and entertainment company says it aims at “career longevity” for artists by securing film, TV and brand endorsement deals in the near term. That comes as the live events business eyes a return to scale in 2021 at the earliest as public health officials continue to rule out large-scale gatherings amid the

McAuliff added, “The goal of Mint is to bring together great agents

COVID-19 pandemic.

with amazing rosters so that both can thrive at a home that values the associate, agent and artist like family.” Egenthal added, “At

“As a forward thinking company and in line with its full service agency

Mint, we are building a foundation that supports both Artists and

model, Mint will maximize client opportunities in brand partnerships,

Agents growth for the entirety of their careers’… all the while

private and corporate booking, as well as voice-over, TV and film,”

carving out charitable and benevolent causes to support and

the new agency said in a statement.

empower with our efforts.”

Strock said, “I am thrilled that we have built a new business based on

Mint`s artist roster includes Allman Brothers Band, Taj Mahal,

positive core human values for all parties involved in the Mint Family.

Blackberry Smoke, Stephen Marley, Brian McKnight, Steel Pulse,

I am very proud of my partners, employees, and top to bottom across

CloZee, Trevor Hall, Erasure, George Porter Jr., Mavis Staples, Rising

the Music client roster and Sports properties. Let’s go!”

Appalachia and Stick Figure.

Patrick McAuliff

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C.J. Strock

Phil Egenthal

VIP NEWS >

SEPTEMBER 2020

ESNS 2021 will be both physical and digital From VIP-Daily News The Dutch conference and showcase festival ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) will go ahead as live as possible in 2021. Taking place in Groningen from 13 to 16 January 2021, ESNS is one of the key exchange and networking platform for European music, European artists, international music industry, production and interactive professionals, companies and organisations.

The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for the music sector have been disastrous. The worldwide shutdown of almost every live event means an unprecedented blow for everyone working in this sector.

ever. While ESNS previously highlighted a focus country every year, for its upcoming edition ESNS chose to focus on all of Europe.

Creative director Robert Meijerink (pictured): “There’s all the more reason to get together again in Groningen in January 2021 and to

This modified edition gives ESNS the opportunity to once again offer

review and anticipate the future. It is precisely these uncertain times that

emerging European talent to take centre stage at Eurosonic with the

call for an opportunity to open the dialogue, to support and inspire, to

presentation of the Music Moves Europe Talent Awards on Friday and

learn from each other and ultimately to regain trust for hopeful times

Dutch talent will perform at Noorderslag, the traditional barometer of

ahead. Last but not least, ESNS wants to organise an event that does

Dutch pop music. The conference provides extended networking and

justice to its mission; stimulating and promoting the circulation of new

business opportunities where delegates engage in dialogue to discuss

European music. The necessity has never been so great.”

the state of the industry and how to deal with the current crisis. Both the festival and the conference are organised with the safety of

ESNS 2021 will be preceded by the European Music Week; a digital

visitors, delegates and artists as the highest priority. In addition, ESNS

platform in which a large number of partners join forces to promote

provides sufficient and safe facilities for the international media that

(new) European music and give the European live music sector center

travel to Groningen to report on ESNS 2021.

stage. With this, ESNS and its partners want to make a constructive contribution to a new future for European pop music.

ESNS director Dago Houben said: “The music sector has been hit hard.

But we feel strengthened by the hundreds of music professionals

In many ways, the 35th edition will be different from previous

from home and abroad who have still bought a registration for

years. The current restrictions to contain the pandemic require the

ESNS 2021 in recent months, despite the restrictions imposed by the

necessary adjustments for the physical edition, but this edition is

pandemic. We feel that as a call from the sector. In addition, we

widely supported in a digital form, both for the conference and the

receive tremendous support from a large number of partners, not to

showcase festival. Either way, the focus on Europe is greater than

mention the authorities who indirectly supported us to let us do what we are good at; stimulate the circulation of European music. This extra support gives us the opportunity to drastically reduce the price of our event to make it as accessible as possible for everyone. We are developing an accessible digital edition for people who are not yet allowed to, or who are otherwise not able to travel.”

The ESNS team is working hard on the festival and the conference program to adhere to all applicable guidelines.

Details will become clear in the coming month and will be announced

Robert Meijerink

as soon as possible. ESNS is giving a substantial discount on conference tickets for the 2021 edition.

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ALL THE MUSIC INDUSTRY GATHERED !

3 days of panels and concerts Paris, Pigalle - Montmartre

Program & delegate pass on www.mamafestival.com

#alltogetheragain

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

SEPTEMBER 2020

COVID-19 and the Live Industry: How Are we Coping?

It goes without saying that these are challenging times with the Live Music & Events Industry being one of the worst hit by the current coronavirus crisis and with the lockdowns and restrictions on events imposed by governments all over the world.

Although there is some hope on the horizon with many tours already being rescheduled for the autumn there is still a lot of uncertainty remaining.

We asked 4 professionals from different countries about their current situation and how they are dealing with the problems facing their businesses.

Diana Grodberg Co-founder, Live People Agency, representing international pop, rock, crossover artists, shows, orchestras and theatre productions globally How is your company coping with the current crisis and how’s

logic. We need to get back to work instead of charity to keep us

the reopening schedule looking in your country?

“a little alive”.

Like everyone else in the Live Music business I guess. So far we had

Have you managed to book any gigs for your artists during

to reschedule spring events to the winter, now we are rescheduling

this period of uncertainty?

them again together with other events (over 50 shows) into 2021 without certainty that they will not need to be postponed even

I am receiving inquiries and offers, but they are mostly for 2022.

further. As our agency’s artists tour internationally our operations depend on the global “chessboard”.

Have you managed to monetise any live streamed gigs and if

so how?

Have you received any financial support from your government and if so are you still receiving support?

That is not part of our operations.

We received small amounts for salaries. Better than nothing, but

Do you see live streamed gigs being a revenue stream in the

financial support alone is not the solution. Governments in various

future even when things get back to normal?

countries started to allocate funds to Live Music industry, while at the same time they extend restrictions on business operation. It’s

Live streamed gigs will become a trend within its niche. But I don’t

either hypocrisy or an inability to strategise a rational, clear and

think that live events can be replaced by streaming or VR technologies.

consistent plan for a return to normal. What difference is there

By nature we are social creatures, we are tribal, it’s in our DNA. We

between a fully packed plane or a bar, versus a venue when it

need to be part of something, to feel the joy of sharing emotions and

comes to the spread of the virus? This is ridiculous and has no

experiences, as at live events.

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

SEPTEMBER 2020

Are you optimistic that festivals will be able to go ahead as usual next year?

Diana Grodberg

This will largely depend on government actions all over Europe e.g. some countries have recently announced an extension of the ban on major events until the end of this year despite a previously announced period of early November. Is this the last ban? If it wasn’t for that, I would be very optimistic e.g. Roskilde Festival sold out for 2021 while the world was still paralysed by quarantine.

How do you see new technology being introduced to monitor audience safety at future events?

If it helps lift the ban and bring events back to life, I’m for it. On the other hand, we don’t know how audiences will react to such regulations.

Will promoters continue to pay huge advances in the future or do you see artists/managers/agents taking more of the risk?

Time will tell. There are different risk factors such as the territory or the credibility of your partner. Some require a specific approach and a set of rules if you want to have successful show.

Do you see a sway back to more independent promoters and agents once the current crisis is over?

I see 2020 as the black hole of the entertainment business, that voids many years of efforts. The latest PwC research shows that

As with any crisis, this one will lead to market restructuring, a shift of

money generated by Live Music has fallen by 64%. They forecast

powers and new players coming to the stage.

that live music will rebound in 2021 and in 2022 and will show significant growth compared to 2019. I am quite sceptical about

What long term effects do you think the current crisis will have

2021, but I strongly believe that 2022 will be the year when we all

on the future of the Live Music Industry?

will enjoy the results.

Jurek Owsiak Promoter, Pol’and’Rock Festival (Poland) How is your company coping with the current crisis and how’s

Have you managed to promote any shows at all during this

the reopening schedule looking in your country?

period of uncertainty?

Apart from being a successful festival organiser, we are also a medical

We held an online edition of Pol’and’Rock Festival, with three days

charity, so we geared our work towards a COVID-19 response. Poland

of concerts in front of a limited audience in the studio broadcast on

relaxed some of the lockdown rules for the summer. Cultural events

the internet. We broadcasted for over 72 hours straight, with archive

can take place under strict health & safety regulations including face

footage and live shows and talks.

masks and social distancing.

Have you managed to monetise any live streamed gigs and if Have you received any financial support from your government

so how?

and if so are you still receiving support?

Our Festival is a non-profit event focused on community and ideals We did not get any financial support from the government.

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rather than financial profit. We rely on our sponsors for support.

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

SEPTEMBER 2020

Do you see live streamed gigs being a revenue stream in the future even when things get back to normal?

Concert streams will not be able to replace the live festival or concert experience, however, it’s worth considering keeping streaming options to attract even wider audiences in the future.

Are you optimistic that festivals will be able to go ahead as usual next year?

It isn’t easy to assume anything at this point. We do hope we will meet to listen to music at summer festivals next summer.

Do you see a sway back to more independent promoters and agents once the current crisis is over?

How do you see new technology being introduced to monitor audience safety at future events?

We hope that the music business will become more diverse, and will allow for the rise of independent agencies and promoters.

Leaps in technology can help us ensure the safety of participants and musicians.

What long term effects do you think the current crisis will have on the future of the Live Music Industry?

Will promoters continue to pay huge advances in the future or do you see artists/managers/agents taking more of the risk?

Apart from causing substantial financial losses and jobs and venues in peril, the crisis has shown how important the role of live music in our

We think that the live music market will change, and will require

society is and how much it is missed. Promoters and audiences found

a more open-minded and adventurous approach. Nothing is set in

ways to keep the music playing and returning to normal might see a

stone anymore.

surge of demand for performances and concerts.

Jerzy Owsiak, Promoter of Pol’and’Rock

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

SEPTEMBER 2020

Lana Pahič Booking Agent at Perpetuum Jazzile Booking (Slovenia) How is your company coping with the current crisis and how’s

Have you managed to monetize any live streamed gigs and if

the reopening schedule looking in your country?

so how?

Unfortunately the situation is not great as the whole music sector in

No as we are a vocal ‘a capella’ group and live shows are our thing.

Slovenia is on hold (we have some concerts but the rule is no more

We did 1 Corona zoom video to cheer up our fans.

than 500 people and everyone needs to be seated and separated by up to 1.5 meters. Also, dancing is not allowed and the artist on stage

Do you see live streamed gigs being a revenue stream in the

needs to be 8 meters away from the audience. The next 3-4 months

future even when things get back to normal?

are not looking positive either with more lockdowns happening and we are facing a second Corona wave at the moment.

To be honest, no, for me, the only real show is the live show as the

artist can connect with the audience, there are a lot of emotions.

Have you received any financial support from your government

Streaming all is very synthetic and not honest, I am not a fan at all.

and if so are you still receiving support?

Are you optimistic that festivals will be able to go ahead as

Yes we did and we are also waiting on another financial package of

usual next year?

support, we will know more about this soon.

Yes, I am, fingers crossed that festivals 2021 will be back to normal

Have you managed to book any gigs for your artists during

as people can’t wait to once again live their lives as before & dance.

this period of uncertainty?

How do you see new technology being introduced to monitor

Yes, I am preparing a 2021 European tour and we also booked a few

audience safety at future events?

local gigs for 2021 but we will see if we will be able to do it. Almost everything from 2020 is moved on 2021 or 2022.

I was not able to see until now any new technologies as nothing is

happening. I am not sure how we can do more in comparison to

Lana Pahič

what we are doing now with safety, which is the no.1 priority with or without Coronavirus.

Will promoters continue to pay huge advances in the future or do you see artists/managers/agents taking more of the risk?

I think that is an internal decision of every artist / agent. I will continue to work in a way that my artist is safe in case of postponements / cancellations.Advances are the most important filters we have but also it depends on the location, the Promotor and previous experiences.

Do you see a sway back to more independent promoters and agents once the current crisis is over?

We will need to adapt for sure and work even harder.

What long term effects do you think the current crisis will have on the future of the Live Music Industry?

Less gigs, more rules and a lot more stress. Let’s hope that is not true.

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >

SEPTEMBER 2020

Riki Huhtala CEO at RH-Entertainment Oy (Finland) How is your company coping with the current crisis and how’s

We were able to do six festivals with certain restrictions, which was

the reopening schedule looking in your country?

a good thing. We also managed to prevent infections. Now we are booking the summer and fall of 2021.

We have been forced to run down almost all our operations and

this way we have been able to cut our costs. At the moment we are

Have you managed to monetize any live streamed gigs and if

working on spring and summer 2021. It is our strong belief that we

so how?

are able to pull that through, at least in some measures.

No We haven’t done those at all.

Have you received any financial support from your government and if so are you still receiving support?

Do you see live streamed gigs being a revenue stream in the future even when things get back to normal?

We haven’t got a decision on that yet. In Finland, the government has not been very helpful, especially compared to the restaurant business

Maybe, If someone manages to make them attractive enough, maybe

for example, which was supported by specific legislation.

internationally. Now it seems that the market in Finland is quite small.

Have you managed to promote any shows at all during this

Are you optimistic that festivals will be able to go ahead as

period of uncertainty?

usual next year?

I believe that at least some can be arranged, with restrictions maybe.

How do you see new technology being introduced to monitor audience safety at future events?

I believe that new innovations and new technology will enhance the safety for all of us. I also think that we have learnt from Covid 19 and can use that knowledge and experience also in the future.

Will promoters continue to pay huge advances in the future or do you see artists/managers/agents taking more of the risk?

I hope that the risk will be more on the artist/agent side in the future, but time will tell.

Do you see a sway back to more independent promoters and agents once the current crisis is over?

Yes I do, but in my opinion the change had already started before this crisis.

What long term effects do you think the current crisis will have on the future of the Live Music Industry?

Difficult question. Will the world go back to how it was formerly I don’t think so. The crisis will affect our industry for a long time, but

Riki Huhtala

our industry is full of imaginative people, so I believe in the future.

Time will tell...

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VIP NEWS >

NAMES & JOBS

SEPTEMBER 2020

Samantha Kirby Yoh Announced as Co-Head of UTA Music From VIP-Daily News UTA announced today that music industry powerhouse Samantha

department and a roster of stellar clients, including Bjork, Rosalia,

Kirby Yoh has been named co-head of UTA Music, joining David

LCD Soundsystem, Florence & the Machine, FKA twigs, Grimes,

Zedeck in overseeing the company’s worldwide music operations.

Alicia Keys, James Blake, MIA, Moses Sumney, Channel Tres, Banks, St Vincent, Massive Attack and The Chemical Brothers. She was

“Sam and David see eye-to-eye on how to build a great music

known for expanding their businesses into new areas of media and

business and will be strong partners in leading UTA Music,” said UTA

creative brand partnerships. Prior to that, Kirby Yoh was an agent

CEO Jeremy Zimmer. “We have long admired Sam’s success working

at Evolution Talent.

with unique and powerful artists, and we’re thrilled she has chosen to join us. Under their leadership, UTA Music will continue to bring

Samantha Kirby Yoh said “I am excited to join UTA as they continue

innovative ideas, unparalleled service and collaboration into the

to build out their music department to meet, protect and amplify

lives of artists.”

the creativity of the artists they represent. UTA is at the vanguard of investing and sourcing incredibly innovative opportunities for

Kirby Yoh most recently served as Head of East Coast Music at

their artists. Additionally, I’ve watched with great respect as UTA

WME where she was responsible for overseeing the New York music

moves clearly with their intentions to better our music community,

Samantha Kirby Yoh

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VIP NEWS >

SEPTEMBER 2020

becoming leaders in diversity, equity and inclusion. I look forward to partnering with David Zedeck, a friend for more than 20 years and

NAMES & JOBS

UTA Music

one of the most talented agents and leaders in music. I’m thrilled to get to work.”

Beyond her role as one of the industry’s most influential agents, Kirby Yoh is a leader in diversity and inclusion. She’s a Founding Member of “She Is The Music” which focuses on increasing the number of women working in the global music industry, and sits on the advisory board of the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which works to increase diversity in the entertainment industry. She also co-founded “Noise for Now,” which connects performers to organizations fighting for reproductive rights.

“There are few agents in music more inventive, collaborative or dynamic than Sam and I’m excited she’s agreed to join UTA,” said

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Zedeck. “We’ve been colleagues and friends for over two decades

tremendously. She’ll bring a unique perspective and outstanding

and there’s no one I’d rather share the responsibility of running

taste to the role, and I look forward to a partnership focused on

our music business with. She’s someone I admire and respect

continuing to build UTA Music into the industry leader.”

VIP NEWS >

NAMES & JOBS

SEPTEMBER 2020

Pinkpop founder Jan Smeets steps down From VIP-Daily News Jan Smeets, better known as `Mister Pinkpop`,

festival and, in collaboration with MOJO, the

thought. Since 1990 we have even been in

has decided to step down from his position as

company that has been responsible for the

the Great Guinness Book of Records.

festival director of the Dutch festival.

programming since 1986, will determine the

In 1970, the then 25-year-old Smeets

future of the festival. Smeets will continue to

While at the beginning of this year, during my

assist the Pinkpop team as an advisor.

75th birthday, I prepared for the 51st edition of Pinkpop, this year it remained very quiet

organized the first edition of the now most famous and longest-running open-air pop

The first edition of Pinkpop festival was

at Megaland. I have always shouted `Pinkpop

festival in the Netherlands, together with

organized in Geleen on Monday 18 May

will always go on`, but I could never have

several partners. With Smeets at the helm,

1970. That turned out to be a great success

imagined a pandemic like this. But it is the

the festival celebrated its 50th edition in

and in the years that followed, Smeets and

way it is. There were no festivals this year. So

2019. Unfortunately, the 2020 festival had

his team expanded the festival into what

no Pinkpop either.

to cancelled like so many other events due to

it is today: the most famous pop festival in

the coronavirus situation.

the Netherlands with 50 editions, almost 2.8

Corona has also played tricks on me. Because

million unique visitors and performances by

of this, in combination with other health

Ever since Mister Pinkpop passed retirement

the biggest bands in the world such as The

complaints, I have taken the time to think

age, the question has always been how

Rolling Stones, Metallica, Paul McCartney,

about the future. Partly because of this, I

long he would want to continue. Until the

Bruce Springsteen and many others.

have decided it is time to hand over the baton. My permanent team will continue

50th edition it was unthinkable for Jan to stop. However, with time freed up because

A statement from Jan Smeets on the

with the organization of the Pinkpop festival

of Covid-19 and the fact that he has been

Pinkpop site reads:

and will, in collaboration with MOJO, the company that has been responsible for the

struggling with health issues in recent years, he has now decided to step back in order to

Lovely people,

built up with the festival.

programming since 1986, will ensure the festival for the future.

be able to enjoy his free time and what he has Last year, in 2019, we celebrated the 50th edition of our Pinkpop festival together.

I am very proud of all the 2.8 million visitors,

His permanent team, consisting of among

What started in 1970 with a few friends has

crew, suppliers, sponsors, partners, artists,

others, Niek Murray, Sierk Janssen and Tirsa

grown into the most famous festival in the

viewers at home and all Pinkpop babies.

Creusen, will continue to organize the Pinkpop

Netherlands over the years. Who would have

Without you I could never have turned my hobby into my job.

Jan Smeets

I have every confidence in my regular team and even though I am taking a step back they are still far from getting rid of me, haha.

Pinkpop remains Pinkpop. Be nice to each other, keep lubricating yourself, drink enough water, do not light fires and walk outside.

I would love to see you all at the 51st edition of Pinkpop. Until then!

Jan Smeets, `Mister Pinkpop`

17

CONNECT GET INSPIRED DISCOVER WITH 4.000 MUSIC PROFESSIONALS

BY 150 PANELS KEYNOTES & SESSIONS

350+ ACTS IN 30+ VENUES OVER THE SPAN OF 4 DAYS

GET YOUR REGISTRATION AT ESNS.NL

VIP NEWS >

NAMES & JOBS

SEPTEMBER 2020

Music Agent Pete Nash Joins ICM Partners From VIP-Daily News ICM Partners and Primary Talent International

The hiring of Nash continues the bolstering

Morissette, D’Angelo, Duran Duran, Eric

(PTI), their London based Music Agency,

of ICM Partners International music division

Church, Tegan and Sara, Vince Staples &

have hired highly respected International

in 2020 which started with the partnership

more. Prior to WME he ran his own NYC-

music agent Pete Nash, it was announced

with PTI this March and includes the hiring

based independent agency. Nash also spent

today by Rob Prinz, Head of Worldwide

of former WME agent Simon Clarkson last

17 years as a Director of London-based

Concerts at ICM Partners and Matt Bates,

month.

Nash, like Clarkson, will work

powerhouse international agency Helter

Head of International at PTI/ICM. Nash will

closely with PTI in London and comes to

Skelter, representing artists like Alicia Keys,

be based in ICM’s New York office and

ICM from WME.

Stevie Wonder, Wynton Marsalis, Blondie,

brings with him an impressive client roster

The Fall and Suede.

that includes Kings of Leon, Pet Shop

Nash previously spent almost nine years at

Boys, Regina Spektor, Steve Winwood,

WME, where in addition to his own roster,

ROB PRINZ QUOTE

The Struts and Travis.

he worked with such artists as Alanis

“I have known Pete since early in both our careers and have shared many amazing

Pete Nash

artists. He is a tremendous addition to our already formidable International team, a great agent representing some legendary clients. I am extremely happy to call him my colleague now for the first time.” said Rob Prinz.

MATT BATES QUOTE “I was trying to book acts off Pete long before I was ever an agent, so to be finally be able to work alongside him is a privilege.

His experience in the international market is second to none; his roster of incredible clients speaks for themselves. I couldn’t wish for a more perfect addition on our team to help navigate the new exciting music landscape that we are entering into,” said Matt Bates.

PETE NASH QUOTE “Very excited to join an agency that is in growth mode,” said Pete Nash. “The moves they have made to bolster their International footprint was the catalyst for me to make this move. Looking forward to working closely with Rob Prinz and Matt Bates, who are longtime friends, and the teams at ICM and Primary.”

19

VIP NEWS > BUSINESS >

MUSIC IN SHARES

SEPTEMBER 2020

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

For almost two decades the live music sector has been the biggest

CTS Eventim - Marginal Improvement

income gainer in the music industry. The heydays of the record industry seem to be something of the past, having been fiercely hit

With a share price of 40.30 Euro as reported on August 17, the

by technology-driven developments and the disruptive momentum

September 25 figure is a bit better at 41.30 Euro...

of digitalization and innovation, live music however has continued to prosper, at least until 2019.

DEAG - A Trivial Decrease It is now clear however that Covid-19 will become the ultimate game changer, putting the record industry back into the driving seat

Last time 2.95 Euro, this time down to 2.85 Euro...

and for the time being at least, live music shares into quarantine.

Business-wise there is currently no light at the end of the Corona-

Eventbrite - A Meaningless Increase

tunnel for concert companies. Daily business foresees another round of re-scheduling tours and concerts, hassling around with

Up from $10.31 to $10.69‌

insurance companies, the re-definition of deals and of their terms and conditions or tough management decisions about the lay off of staff and/or other cost cutting measures. It is still far too early to say,

Live Nation - Uncertain and Undetermined

when and how the process of recovery might occur. At least when looking at share prices, there seems to be some hope embedded,

The previously reported share price of $57.29 had surprising but

let’s wait and see how long this momentum will last.

temporary momentum, the current figure of $51.25 gives a different impression...

Spotify - Volatility as a Benchmark When Spotify shares reached a price of $272.17 as previously reported it already set a strong signal. However, this was apparently not as solid as it seemed, the current share price has now fallen to $231.85‌

Tencent - Speculatively Unpolitical Investors and politics are usually an unlikely combination. Nevertheless during times of political tensions, the combination of both can at least be an issue: Down from $16.07 to $14.71...

Warner Music - Share Prices On Hold From $ 28.84 down to $28.15...

20

VIP NEWS > MISC >

MEMBER PRESENTATION

SEPTEMBER 2020

This space is dedicated to present some of our clients using VIP-Booking.com.

Companies presented here have our best endorsement...

Langelandsfestival Langelandsfestival is one of the larger festivals in Denmark, with approximately 25.000 attendees every summer in week 30 (late July), from all corners of Denmark. You’ll find two main stages and two smaller stages, where around 70 artists play throughout the 8 day festival.

Since Langelandsfestival was established in 1991, it has become a regular part of the summer holiday for thousands of guests - and in 2021 the festival celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The festival started as a small garden party, but has since developed into a modern festival, with several stages and beautiful stage shows, theme bars, street food stalls, good facilities, 15,000 m2 children’s area with lots of activities and much more. Langelandsfestival is no longer just a garden party, but a festival for the modern family whatever that looks like. Langelandsfestival offers great times for the children, their parents, and the ones in between, with everything

Since Langelandsfestival was established in 1991 many Danish and

from quiet family areas till theme bars partying until late at night.

international acts have been presented – like Lukas Graham, Earth, Wind & Fire, Craig David, Rick Astley, Mike Oldfield, B. B. King, Gloria

The festival is located at the beautiful island Langeland in the

Gaynor, TOTO, 10CC, Boney M, Simple Minds, Shakin’ Stevens,

southern part of central Denmark, which means that visitors from

Europe, Kim Wilde, Lisa Ekdahl, Santana, Boyzone, Rasmus Seebach,

all over the country take the trip to the festival every year.

Nik & Jay, Thomas Helmig, Kashmir, TV2, D-A-D and many more.

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.

®

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21

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1

Use VIP Analytics to lo cate where your artist has the most in terest:

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2

ues Use our Tour Builder to locate ven or agents within a given area:

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Find the Talent B uyer and relevant other contact s:

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