How long have you worked in Management?

20 years.

Who do you manage now?

Anthony Davis, Etienne Charles, Davóne Tines, Jonny Abraham, Bishi, Julian Lloyd Webber, Cassie Kinoshi.

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?

When I set up the agency 5 years ago, I knew I wanted to work with artists who had their own distinct identity and paths but also artists who knew how to adapt so Julian was one of the first I spoke to. I’d been his assistant agent at IMG 15 years previously and we’d always got on great but I knew he had to retire from playing and figuring out his next move. That’s where he spoke about his Rising Stars Series which is now in its fourth season on Classic FM and Sky Arts. Taking some of the brightest talent from the across the world and giving them a platform but also mentorship from one of the UK’s leading classical musicians. The series is proudly diverse and a reflection of who he is a person so a really proud moment as a manager.

What does a good/bad day at work look like for you?

Good day is everyday, we’re so lucky to do this job so it’s usually meeting the team at our space, checking the diary for in person and zoom meetings for that day. Checking the crises of the week and updating team on any immediate actions needed.

Bad day, I guess being an artist manager is dealing with multiple personalities, so it’s letting a problem or an issue come home with you because of how someone has made you feel. Don’t, because ultimately you are doing the best job possible!

What has been the highlight of your management career to date?

Anthony Davis’ Opera X at The Met, New York where we had a 60% audience under 40 and the majority of black and ethnically diverse backgrounds, which I’d never experienced before at an opera house in my career, and it was something I had the pleasure to have been involved in. It was great that this also happened in the year I joined Power Up too and I could share that win with this amazing community!

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2024?

Our industry is adapting and changing so arts cuts is a major issue for the organisations we collaborate with. A lot of our work is partnerships and connecting organisations who can support the sustainability of their and our clients project ideas. We are proud to be governance, fundraising and business support consultancy as well as an agency, a pivot we’ve had to undertake to ensure our clients projects move forward across genres.

Why would you recommend the MMF?

The MMF is an amazing community of different minds who are supportive of all music managers from all genres. At times when you can feel siloed, they bring you in with their amazing events and team!

What music are you currently listening to?

My clients, Davóne Tine’s new Robeson album (which he performed at Milton Court, London on Feb 15th) and Etienne’s US No.1 Jazz album, Creole Orchestra (and also his cameo on Tiny Desk with Machel Montano). I’m also loving away from my work, artists like Griff, Lola, Elaine and Doechii (who I’m desperate to connect to an orchestra!)