VIP-News Premium - Vol. 141 November 2011

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NOVEMBER 2011

McGowan’s

Musings

On the way to the AIF reception at London’s­

much in need of a couple of beers, some

son, are about to return to the fray. I keep

Royal Festival Hall last week I was distracted­

pleasant conversation, and the reassurance

thinking, are there any bands left to reform,

and then somewhat traumatised by the

that some people do actually devote their

and sure enough – there’s another one!

World Press Photo Awards display in the

time and efforts­to putting together events

foyer. After an excess of images of severed

designed to provide other human beings

A large part of the industry news in 2010,

heads, bloated corpses, shootings and more

with enjoyable­and uplifting experiences - so

was taken up with speculation as to whether

death, disaster and mayhem, I was very

thanks AIF!

the powers that be would allow the creation of a live music behemoth as a result of the

COLOPHON > VIP-News is published by: VIP-Booking 145-157 St John Street London Ec1V 4PW 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 +44 870 755 0092

In fact I’ve spent the last week or so in the

union of Live Nation and Ticketmaster­, and

company of a lot of festival folk as the UK

the effects­this would have on the business.

Festival Awards took place in London on

It now looks as though we may see similar­

the day after the AIF bash. The Conference

disquiet­in the recording sector in 2012

took place at The Forum in Kentish Town,

following on from Universal’s purchase of

a venue I used to frequent when it was

EMI. Many think that the newly engorged

known as The Town & Country Club. This

Company­will be in a position to manipulate­

was followed­by the Awards and Dinner at

the business in ways that will shoulder smaller­

the Roundhouse­, another venue which took

players aside.

me back to my youth and seeing The Doors

to have a problem with the situation, and

and other legendary­bands, plus getting

Universal­has started to make arrangements­

involved­in certain things best glossed over,

for regulatory approval, but trade bodies

when the amazing UFO club was resident in

such as Impala are obviously hoping that

this former­locomotive turning shed. A good

their misgivings­will be recognised­and acted

time was had by all, apart perhaps from two

upon by the European authorities. It should

comedians­who probably wished they’d

be noted that Live Nation Entertainment­

stayed at home watching TV, as opposed to

and Universal recently entered into an artist­

going down like the proverbial lead balloons!

management­joint venture, so let’s not assume­that the live industry can watch from

A lot of discussion time at these festival

the sidelines as this all plays out.

events and elsewhere is devoted to new and up and coming talent – or more precisely, the

Still, let’s face it even giants can be

lack of. It seems ‘new’ headliners are actually

vulnerable­, at a time when whole countries

old bands and that that reformations are still

are desperately­trying to sort themselves

providing aging artists with pension funds.

out, perhaps the best thing is to stay alert

The Stone Roses are to grace the festival

and just get on with things, which is exactly

circuit next year, earning themselves a few

what we’ll do… Ladies and Gentlemen – the

million, and apparently most of the original

News!

Van Halen line up with the addition of Eddie’s

2

US regulators don’t appear

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011

London Venue News

Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com

London’s small and mid sized venues have experienced varying

However there are some grounds for optimism; The Flowerpot started­

fortunes­in the last couple of years with economic and licensing

up again at The Wheelbarrow on Camden High Street and two new

problems­making life very difficult for many.

live music venues open this month: Clashbar a 100-capacity­venue situated­in the basement of one of London’s biggest backpacker

The future of yet another long time fixture of the capital’s music pub

hostels­, Clink78 in King’s Cross, launches on November 24. Islington­

circuit is now in question with North London gig venue the Bull &

Assembly Hall, was an important venue in London’s post-war years,

Gate coming up for sale, if you’d like to ensure that it continues as

it has recently been refurbished and the main hall will seat up to 170

an important gig you’ll have to find £2.7 million or so. The sale gives

people cabaret-style or 230 people theatre-style, with additional­

another signal that things are difficult at the grass roots end of the

seating­is available for another 200 people in the upper circle. It is

live industry. North London has seen several previously long running

now being run by AGMP, whose founder Adrian Gibson has promoted­

venues disappear, Kentish Town lost the Tally Ho a few years ago and

concerts in London since 1989.

The Flowerpot more recently, and Kilburn’s Luminaire has now closed down.

The Flowerpot

Need to know who is touring Europe

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

4

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011

Festival Feature UK Festival Awards 2011 Winners The Awards were decided through a combination of online fan votes and music industry experts: Best new festival: Wilderness

Best major festival: Glastonbury

Best metropolitan festival: Tramlines

Fans’ favourite festival: Bestival

Best dance event: Creamfields Best overseas festival:

Outlook (Croatia)

Best family festival:

Beautiful Days

The lifetime achievement award:

Best breakthrough artist:

Ed Sheeran

The grass roots festival award: Y-Not Festival

Steve Heap Mrs Casey Music/ Towersey Village Festival

Line-up of the year: Sonisphere

Concession of the year:

Headline performance of the year:

The greener festival award: Shambala Paolo Nutini - Latitude

Anthem of the summer:

Chase and Status - Blind Faith

Agent of the year:

Steve Strange

Promoter of the year:

Secret Productions

Best small festival:

End of the Road

Best medium-sized festival:

Secret Garden Party

The Beat Hotel

Best toilets:

Y-Not Festival

Best sponsor activation:

Capitalize - Bacardi

The extra-festival activity award:

Bearded Kitten

Outstanding contribution to festival production:

The Event Safety Shop

James Drury, Managing Director­ of

Festival

Awards,

Ltd,

said,

“The Festival Awards is all about recognizing­the hard work everyone­ in the industry puts in, and sharing the thanks and love from the public for those efforts. Everyone involved not just the winners - should be rightly­ proud of what they’ve achieved in a year that has been more challenging than others.”

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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011

Conference: It’s an Ill Wind…

Rudi Enos

of the 2011 Festival season were of course

the global festival industry this year, drought,

the reports of the fatal disasters caused

floods, storms, will occur more often.” In a

by extreme weather conditions, and not

kenote interview Melvin Benn, MD of Festival­

surprisingly­one of the main panels at the

Republic, said, “Perhaps we should now

Conference preceding the 2011 UK Festival

make allowances for and instigate procedures

Awards addressed the unpredictable and

for much worse weather than previously

horrific effects that the elements can have on

anticipated­,” he told delegates. “Tents and

the best planned events, called ‘Weather –

stages can be better stabilized and supported­.

Or Not’,

The crucial fact that more equipment and time will be needed means the cost will rise

The panel agreed with Rudi Enos (see

but that’s a fraction of the festival takings.”

below)­that, “We can make all sorts of allowances­for the stresses and strains

The ‘Weather’ session was preceded by a very

of structures, but what we can’t always

pertinent speech from Rudi Enos, of Sheffield

make allowances for is the weather.” It

based Rudi Enos Design, one of the senior

was also agreed that it was not only more

designers of portable structures in the event

weather that needed consideration­ , but

industry. VIP News spoke to him at the event

This year’s edition of the Conference

the increasing­number of events obvi-

and he has since kindly sent us a transcript of

included­panels on Social Commerce, on the

ously upped the risks. The Ops Director­of

his speech and given us permission to include

increasing­number of hats festival promoters

Julie’s Bicycle pointed out from the floor

it in this edition of The News.

have to wear, the competition for sponsorship

that, “It’s what global warming causes that

between­sports and festivals in the year of the

matters­, it is getting windier and the violent­

Olympics. The outstanding news headlines

and extreme weather events that affected

A Changed World Since the summer of 2011, with the disasters­

on the consequence of failure rather than

operated. Not all the fault should be laid at

of the Indiana State Fair, Pukkelpop, 18th

portability­or cost. Perhaps­we should now

the feet of the designer, manufacturer or the

August 2011, Ottawa Blues Fest, July 18th

make allowances for and instigate­procedures­

installer. They have all worked in an industry­

2011, Flaming Lips at Tulsa Oklahoma,

for much worse weather­than forecasted. For

where, for example, temporary structures

August­8th, 2011, and a concert by Ivete

the purposes of this speech I assume that

designed

Sangalo at Sao Paolo in Brazil on 21st August

large stages are frame tents.

more benign weather patterns in Southern

2011, the event industry has had its own Annus­ Horribilis.

To view this in a rational way, we must accept­

(and

perfectly

adequate

for)

Europe­are imported into northern countries Tents and stages can be better anchored,

and allowed­to be used, partly due to pan

stabilised­and supported without a vast

European­desire for conformity. If only the

increase­in effort. The simple fact that more

weather could read the regulations.

that historically, event industry temporary­ equipment and time will be needed means structures have generally had a very good

that costs will rise, but that rise is a fraction­

Improved

safety record. But, based upon the summer’s­

of a percentage of festival takings. The

implemented­ . Design strategies that are

tragic events, we have to accept­that perhaps­

industry­is moving into a new era with the

both tested and efficient must allow for

it is time to move on and introduce­higher

introduction­of CDM regulations, it is surely

this and recognise that more severe testing

standards of design, manufacture­, installation­

time to move on in other areas too.

is required when the structure is capable

and inspection. We need to establish­a new paradigm in temporary­structure­design and

6

testing

regimes

must

be

of accommodating­ever larger audiences.

Organisers need to provide the correct budget­

Anyon­e who saw 20,000 people in the Radio­

installation inspection with an emphasis­ and timetables to allow safe structures­to be

1, NME tent at Reading this year will see a

>

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011 Pukkelpop stage colapse

>

future where festivals can be held which

capacities undreamt of 15 years ago, but

embody­the outdoor nature of the event but

structures which meet or exceed current

give enhanced cover against bad weather.

standards and guidelines. We need to set our

This carries the attendant problem of higher

own ever higher safety standards, we need to

risk.

approach new structure design with humility­ and a willingness to deliver a structure that if

I have a personal investment in this process­; I

installed correctly, simply cannot fail.

do not want to be a designer whose structur­e has caused a death. I do not want to hear a

This speech should be taken as a clarion

litany of second-guessing and 20:20 vision­

call for the whole industry. In the past we

after­a disaster. The festival­organiser­and their

have allowed­commerciality to drive our

team do not want to be put in the positio­n

industry­. We can do much better, we have

of this summer’s unfortunate­organisers­. We

the knowledge­. We really do know how to

should always remember the people who

do this; to ignore the imperatives and the

paid to enjoy a musical experience­and did

challenge­will be our industry’s disgrace.

MyMusicMailer.com enables artists to MAIL their music to more than 6.000 venues and agencies worldwide…

not go home.

There has been a call for better, more local weather forecasting. While this is possible or desirable, it will not solve the issue. Once a severe weather issue arises, the problem is still there and there may not be time to take appropriate action. We must make our response before the event not afterwards.

There is always the solution of removing the public from danger by evacuation but that is not a good solution if the structure is lying on the floor. Severe weather instances can often be over quickly and the event restarted in safety, but not if the structure is unusable.

Only advanced design can give the client the comfort of ever larger, more attractive structures, which are not only able to handle­

7

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011

Festival Stage Collapse Disasters Prompt 2012 Seminar Examining Large Temporary Structures As a project of the Special Structures Lab,

techniques­ , ground anchors, rigging, lift

to do is let the knowledge ‘trickle down’ into

Rudi Enos (see above) in collaboration

motors and gearing, and the importance

general use at the level of examining officer­s

with Professor­Aleksandar Pavic, the Head

of erectio­ n in varying wind and ground

and event safety teams. The seminar will

of the Vibration Engineering Section of

conditions­.

provide­a good start to that process”.

Director­of the Full Scale Dynamics Ltd and

The seminar will highlight the failures that can

Interested parties can register for the seminar

Alan White, a leading structural engineer,

occur when proper design is not complete­d,

at www.specialstructures.com If you would

have set up a seminar prompted by the

or when field modifications to designs are

like more information about this topic, or to

disastrous­stage collapses in 2011.

introduced without a full understanding of

speak with Rudi, Alan or Alex, call Rudi on

the University­Of Sheffield and Managing

their implications. This includes unlawful and

0114 257 7755 or email to

The two-day event will take place at the

reckless removal of side guys and structural

seminar@specialstructures.com

Royal Victoria Hotel in Sheffield on the

bracing on tents and stages.

For further information please check

28th and 29th March 2012. The seminar will concentrate­on the essential ele-

Rudi Enos comments, “The industry is already

ments of design­, construction, and installa-

highly regulated in the UK, and does not

tion of temporary­structures. In particular,

requi­re more. The necessary experience and

the seminar­will focus on manufacturing

expertise is already in place. What we need

www.buma-rotterdam-beats.nl

Festival Insurance Being responsible for open-air events that in

have

some cases bring together more people than

entertainment­­­­

run

ERPAM,

in

the

Keeping in mind that some festivals and

1989

the

events for 2012 have already been covered,

make up the population of small towns is a

company­with its 25 employees has advised

up to now there are no observable trends in

serious business and as recent incidents have

promoters in Germany­and in other European­

the market that require reconsideration of

shown, all sorts of unexpected things can

countries. As a broker ERPAM has the facility­

our assumption.

happen. How do festival promoters go about

to select from more than 50 insurance

covering themselves and their charges, the

companies­in order to optimally insure the

Have you had to deal with an increase­in

festival goers, artists, crew, equipment etc.,

worldwide risks of its clients by also utilizing

insurance claims from your clients over

in increasingly unpredictable conditions?

global partners located in London and New

the past year, and if so, what kind of

York.

incidents­have resulted in these claims?

sector.

specializing Since

VIP News spoke to Christian Raith, Managing­ What changes, if any, do you expect­in

somewhat special year. On the one hand,

Eberhard, Raith & Partner GmbH www.

insurance fees for promoters in 2012?

there was an increase in notification of claims

erpam.com who has been working in the

– We assume no major changes in the

due to a higher number of event cancellations­

insurance industry for more than 20 years.

insurance premiums for the next year.

or abandonment compared to previous

Since 2000 he and Bernhard Eberhard

8

– In terms of claims the year 2011 was a

Director and owner of insurance brokers­ ,

years; on the other hand, a comparatively­

>

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011 >

higher individual­extent of damage. The

years, thus asking themselves if the outlay

main reasons­behind that might be the bad

for contingency event cancellation insurance­

weather during the summer months, as well

is worth the money. However, immediately

as the increased number of outdoor events.

following­the case of an uninsured loss

Actually, we notice a year-to-year increase in

you get the answer; if the worst comes to

the number of festivals or open air events.

the worst a cancelled event can mean the financial­end for the event organizer. Even

What

between

worse is the fact that not only the promoter

insurances­offered in the UK for the live

are

the

differences

will suffer from an uninsured loss, but also

entertainment­industry and those in

other suppliers involved in the event because

Europe­?

they will never see any compensation.

– The main differences between insurance­ offers in the UK and Europe become­ So, what is an efficient insurance for an obvious­when looking at the small print,

open-air event in order to protect promoters­?

i.e. the conditions­ . Unfortunately, these

Nothing­is easier; you might need a

particular points make it very difficult for

contingency­event cancellation insurance

the promoters to compare the different

including­appropriate weather insurance

offers, and usually, the differential effect

coverage, which should be individualized to

becomes­clear only in the case of a concert

the promoter in order to ensure coverage

cancellation­or another claim. Let’s give an

of special risks such as flooding or obscured

example: the premium of an English cover

visibility­. Also make sure that the build days

for a festival­contract seemed to be a good

before the first act steps onto the stage

deal, at least at first glance. However, taking

are included. Moreover, a comprehensive

a closer look at the policy we discovered a

coverage­for other involved trades, such

clause that commits the festival organizer to

as stage building, electronics, tents, etc., is

provide a replacement­event. How should

necessary­, and finally never forget to obtain

that be technically­possible­? Therefore, we

liability insurance coverage.

recommend­paying close attention to the fine print and also thorough­discussion of

What are the latest trends in terms of the

the different conditions together with your

coverage of damages due to bad weather­

insurance­partner. This might help you to

incidents and what kinds of damages­are

avoid unpleasant surprises.

no longer covered?

Many

that

– Until now, the coverage is still unchanged­.

Pukkelpop’s­insurance didn’t cover the

promoters

noticed

Of course, there is a natural link between

damages­caused by the bad weather­ catastrophes like storms and a subsequent incident­ . In these days what kind of

increase in interest for insurance­products

insurance­is needed­to protect promoters

following such catastrophes. However­, this is

more efficiently­?

only of short-term character. In a lot of cases­

– Cases involving other festivals prove

it’s often too late to purchase insurance­ ,

that adequate­insurance coverage can be

especially­covering

obtained­without any difficulties and also

cancellation­resulting from damages due to

holds true in the case of a cancellation

weather issues as many insurers require­a

or another­claim. You might be aware of

lead time of between 2 to 4 weeks.

contingency

event

some of these positive­examples. However, some promoters often display a kind of

Did the tragedy at the Love Parade­in

gameplaying­behaviour, similar to russian

Duisburg in 2010 impact on the kind

roulette, when considering their insurance

of insurance coverage you have since

requirements. This is especially­the case if

recommended­to your clients­?

they have not experienced any problems for

– Generally speaking there are always >

Christian Raith

9

VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY > NOVEMBER 2011 >

customers­who only have obtained insurance­

only the costs based on the promise of an

amount, where does it start and where does

coverage because of this tragedy. We

insurance company. So unfortunately, it is still

it end? Neither are there any laws or useful

noticed­that there is a lot of uncertainty,

the price that plays the most important role,

recommendations­on this issue. In the case of

especially­from administrative authorities

not the coverage, a bad thing because the

the Love Parade, the negotiations are still in

and promoters­with regards to the necessary­

liability is unlimited by law.

process. Therefore, no judgement has been

amount insured. For us, we can tell that there

given so far that determines the commit-

was no need for change of our products­ The insurance coverage of the Love

ment of the promoters. From our point of

as we have always had a comprehensive

Parade­in particular has been intensively­

view, the expected number of visitors as well

insurance­coverage as well as sufficient

discussed in the German media. It has

as the type of the event, indoor or outdoor

amounts insured.

been reported many times that an

venue, heavy metal festival or classic event,

insurance­coverage­of 7.5 million Euro

should definitely influence the sum insured.

As far as we know the broker of the Love

wasn’t sufficient­, what is your point of

However, it lies in the hands of the promoters

Parade­cannot be held responsible as in the

view on this?

not only to consider the perfect coverage but

end it’s the promoter who decides on the

– As stated, the promoter decided the

sum insured although he may have been

amount

given different advice, taking into account

important­question, what is the right

insured,

and

this

raises

also to be prepared to buy it.

the

Association of Independent Festivals 2011 Report Indie Festivals Contribute £222m to UK Economy

drink and entertainment), they contributed­

65% in 2010. In response to the issue

a

of rising­ticket prices through secondary

staggering

£222

million

to

the

ticketing­sites and touts AIF launched The UK economy and £17m to local businesses.

Ticket Trust, an ethical ticket exchange site,

With over 400 festivals having taken place

on the 11th July this year. The Ticket Trust has

in the UK this summer, the total amount of

enjoyed a successful first season trading 365

• Audience Research Shows Festival Goers

revenue generated across the whole festival

tickets to Bestival, End of the Road Festival,

Undeterred by Recession

landscape is projected to hugely exceed that

Creamfield, Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival

• AIF Festivals generate £222m for UK economy

In fact the £461 average spend per capita is

770 worth of tickets being resold with no

• The Ticket Trust enjoyed successful first

part of an overall trend of increased spending­

mark up fees.

season exchanging £55,770 of tickets

as festivals weather the recessional storm with

Social media has officially overtaken word

• Social Media drastically increased as a

a durability that other entertainment forms

of mouth as a major source of festival

festival information source.

can only envy. Compared with the overall au-

information­and climbed dramatically since

dience spend of £408 in 2008 or £438.24 last

2008. 57.7% claim social media to be a

The huge value and contribution of UK

year, the festival market looks to grow whilst

major­source from 34% in 2008 although

festivals­to the British economy has been

other sectors such as nightclubs contract. In

still not beating out the festival’s official

quantified in an overreaching survey of over

a direct comparison of festival vs other enter-

website­whom the majority of 68.7% claim is

2,400 festivalgoers.

tainment spending, festivals have only been

a source of information. 52.9% currently use

The

10

and Secret Garden Party amounting to £55,

alone,

moderately hit by the downturn as 54.9%

word of mouth and 43.7% of those surveyed

which include­Bestival, Womad and End

31

AIF

member

festivals

claimed to have their festival spend hit by the

use communal festival websites.

of the Road Festival, attracted around

recession as opposed to 71.9% who reduced

480,000 people this summer. Spending­ spending on other forms of entertainment.

Claire O’Neill, co-founder of A Greener

an average £461 per person­on festival

Interest in ethical ticket exchange has

Festival and AIF general manager said “In

costs (travel, accommodation­ , food and

increased­since last year up to 68% from

the face of what has been a challenging >

VIP NEWS > >

NOVEMBER 2011

few years for many, we are very happy to

With 31 members ranging from Bromley’s

variety­of areas such as security, the environ-

see these positive trends for the continued

Leefest to the 55,000 capacity Bestival in the

ment and beyond, providing a knowledge

steady growth of the Independent Festival

Isle of Wight, AIF enables the promot-

base for festival promoters, as well as cre-

market. Year on year from our audience

ers of some of the UK & Ireland’s most

ating collective­purchasing and marketing

surveys the impact to the UK economy

innovative­and successful festivals to speak

opportunities­for its members.AIF operates

and cultural significance of these events is

with one voice when addressing the wider

as an autonomous division of the Association

confirmed­. Delivering­a successful festival is

music­business­and government. AIF aims

of Independent Music.

by no means an easy task, and the amazing

to establish­best practice for festivals in a

accomplishments of our members and their teams is outstanding.”

Bestival member of the AIF

About AIF The Association of Independent Festivals is a not for profit body set up in 2008 to represent­ independent music festivals in the UK and Ireland.Conceived by Bestival promoter­Rob da Bank and Graphite’s Ben Turner, the association’s­founder members­included Bestival­ , Cornbury Festival, Creamfields­ , Evolution­Festival, Field Day/Underage, Secret Garden Party, Summer Sundae Weekender and WOMAD. Anzeige_VIPMag_ProSky_X4.pdf

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VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

Intellitix Opens UK Office and Announces Key Appointments Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com

The implementation of Radio Frequency

Intellitix boss Serge Grimaux says: “We gained

Parmley will also be working from the UK

ID (RFID) technology by festivals has seen

an impressive list of festival clients in North

office. A veteran journalist and consultant

substantial­growth over the 2011 season­ ,

America this year, and we are now adding

on the international live music industry, this

and looks set to increase dramatically over

an equally impressive list of respected­figures­

summer he set a new Guinness World Record

the 2012 European festival season. In

in the entertainment world to our team. My

for ‘Most festivals visited in 30 days’. Parmley­

response­to this growing demand Intellitix­,

partner Martin Enault and I will continue to

also retains his role as Director of Content

the global market leader in RFID access

grow the Intellitix platform­globally­to answer­

and Media for the International Live Music

control­and cashless payment systems, has

the needs of the festival­communities­ , Conference (ILMC).

announced two key appointments and a new

enchance­the patrons’ experience­and be a

UK office to focus on the European festival

generator of new sources of income.”

VIP News spoke to Greg Parmley about his

market in 2012.

new role: Prior to joining Intellitix, Jenner helped grow

Steve Jenner, founder of Virtual Festivals­ the digital footprint of the Sonisphere festival­

This move from journalism to information­

who most recently worked as Digital

brand, amassing more than half a million

officer marks quite a move for you, you

Director­at UK promoter Kilimanjaro Live, is

Facebook fans worldwide and over 6 million­

must be quite convinced that this is a

confirmed­as Also joining Intellitix is Greg

visitors to its website. A self-confessed

product you are prepared to believe in.

Parmley, until­recently editor of live music

festival­nut, Jenner also established both UK

When did you first become aware of

industry title IQ Magazine, who will oversee

and European Festival Awards and founded

the RFID technology and how did you

global communications­in his role as Chief

Virtual Festivals.

become­involved with Intellitix?

Information­ Officer.

– I’ve been writing about cashless payment will

systems and ticketing technology for some

Intellitix

Jenner

revolutionise­the way music festivals are

time now, but it’s only recently that I became­

activated­over 1 million Radio Frequency ID

experienced­ , produced and shared online

aware of how powerful integrating RFID

(RFID) wristbands at festivals in North America­

over the next few years. What Serge, Martin­

access­control, cashless payment and social

The

appointments

come

after

says:

“RFID

technology

this summer. Sites included Coachella­ , and their team have accomplished in the US

media could be. Individually these are all

Bonnaroo­ , Lollapalooza,

Outside­Lands,

in such a short time frame is phenomenal

powerful tools for an event promoter, but

Austin­City Limits, Electric Zoo, Moogfest and

and underlines the power of their product

looking ahead to when they’re all on the

Le Festival d’été de Québec. Reports indicate­

and their strength of vision. To have the

same wristband or entry device, it becomes

that the company’s RFID access­control­ opportunity­to build on this success and

12

game changing.

systems­securely sealed the festival sites,

allow­music festival organisers and fans in

radically­reduced queues, eradicated fraud,

the UK and Europe to share in the benefits of

You famously entered the Guinness

and withstood all types of weather.

this incredible technological shift is thrilling.

Book of Records by visiting 26 European­

We want everyone to be part of it.”

Festivals­by motorbike this summer.

VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

Steve Jenner joins Intellitix

business develops. We’re absolutely­talking­ to various companies about partnerships­as well. Intellitix is a platform – we work with any ticket seller, concessionaire­, or any other stakeholder involved­in the event – so we’re very open to discussing possibilities­that could be beneficial­for all involved.

Can you see a time when all events will operate the systems, or are there still sceptics to be dealt with, and will it be part of your job to convert them?

– Technology is undoubtedly going to change the way that fans experience live music, and I firmly believe that we’re one of the companies­ at the forefront of this. The biggest­task at

Greg Parmley joins Intelltix

the moment is to communicate­just how it can improve the experience. Many live event

Were any of the events that you visited

of ways that the technology will develop,

on your ‘marathon’, using the system - or

particularly­once NFC phones become more

at least considering future use?

commonplace. NFC and RFID is basically the

– This summer we rolled out Intellitix systems­

same technology, so once the chip becomes

in North America. Having just opened a

part of your mobile, it unlocks enormous

European­HQ this month, we’re actively

potential. The basic premise of what we’re

looking to partner with some key European

doing is making connections, between fans,

events for summer 2012.

artists, promoters, brands and more – and the more ways there are to connect, the more

Apart from providing a ‘cashless’ facility­,

advantageous it is for everyone involved­in

the data collection aspect is obviously

the festival, tour or event.

an application that interests all involved in the promotion and presentation of

Will Intellitix be setting up regional

events - do you think that there are

offices­of your own, or perhaps licensing

future­possibilities for the technology

the technology?

that are still to be considered or applied?

– We have offices in Montreal and London­al-

– There are going to be a huge number

ready, and we’ll look to open new offices­as the

organisers are going to be naturally sceptical about it, and rightly so – when you’re talking about access control and payment systems at a festival, there’s no option for things to fall over. So the main focus for us right now is to communicate what we’re doing, and let organisers know that we have something that is completely robust and that can pay for itself from year one.

For more information go to: www.intellitix.com

Need to know who is touring Europe ®

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

13

VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

SONIC VISIONS 2011 Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com

This year’s third edition of Luxembourg’s showcase­and

conference

event,

You can’t make use of every possibility that

the important markets­of Germany, France

Sonic

seems to be attractive and promising, you

and Belgium. Agreeing­that networking is

Visions­ , will ask the question whether we

need to have a precise idea of what you really­

essential­in this industry­, Sonic Visions offers

should maybe­make a short break to take a

want and how you can get there. It’s true,

the opportunity­to meet with peers from all

deep breath before we continue­running­after

no one can provide a master plan, but Sonic

over the world and make new contacts at the

the latest technology driven­opportunities­. As

Visions­wants to ask the crucial­questions.

two day conference on Friday and Saturday­

an artist you need to be in full control of your

25th/26th of November.

project and you need to know the mechanisms­

Luxembourg is located in the heart of Europe­,

of the music­industry. Today’s land of plenty

is easily accessible and features a variety of

VIP News will attend and report back in the

seems to become more and more a labyrinth:

cultural influences, directly neighbouring

next issue.

Jules Frutos

Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com

The 46th edition of midem will be held from

professionals and the general­public and will

city of Cannes. Our commitment­to delivering­

January 28 to 31 at Palais des Festivals­­in

include three major concerts­to be held in a

a premium concert experience is underlined­by

Cannes.

dedicated­auditorium­. The line-up for these

our partnership with Alias, which has a proven

live shows will include international­headliners­

track record of producing superb­events and

Indicating the increasing importance of the

as well as up-and-coming talent.

which shares our artistic aspirations­for the

live sector to this longest established industry

“At a time when the music industry is speak-

midem­ festival.”

trade event, which previously focused primar-

ing with one voice, it is important­to trans-

Alongside the midem festival, a series of

ily on the publishing and recording sectors will

form words into deeds. Live and recorded­ smaller concerts, entitled ‘midem off,’ will

be the first midem festival.

music must move forward together­using

take place throughout Cannes. A dozen ven-

new models,” said Jules Frutos­, Co-Director

ues around town will showcase new talent

This innovation will be staged in partnership­

of Alias.

that will complete the programme of midem

with French concert producer Alias.

“The creation of the midem festival, as a key

festival live performances.

French music festivals Les inRocKs Black XS

part of midem 2012’s live music programme­,

and Musilac are among Alias’ key annual­ is a major event for both our clients and the

14

Bruno Crolot, Director Midem

MIDEM ’12 Partners with Alias

events and the company also puts on concerts­

general public,” added Bruno Crolot, Direc-

for top international artists such as Adele,

torbarley of Music Markets at Reed MIDEM.

Gossip, Jamiroquai and Muse.

“It fits perfectly­with the new midem that we

The midem festival concerts, which will be

are putting­together for 2012 and we are very

produced by Alias, are open to both industry­

lucky to have the enthusiastic support of the

More information: www.midem.com

VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

BDV To Launch Own Collection Society Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com

While Prodiss, the French promoter association

Yet it is the case already that eligible

continues to lobby the French Government for

promoters­can submit royalty requests

legislation in the issue of a promoter’s share

to GVL. With this in mind, what is the

of certain ancillary rights, it appears that in

benefit­of the new collection society to be

Germany­a law already exists.

founded­by BDV? – GVL is a collection society run by record

Paragraph 81 of the German copyright law

companies­and performing artists, and the

defines­that promoters are eligible to obtain

owners and members of GVL would be the

royalties for a show that has been recorded

licensees of the promoters. To avoid a conflict

and afterwards sold as a download or on

of interest, GVL will not represent the rights

sound and other data carriers or which has

of promoters against record companies and

been broadcast on TV/Radio or streamed on

broadcasters, so we need a separate collection

websites. It is one of the very few opportunities­

society for this.

Johannes Ulbricht

for promoters to augment their business model­which is primarily only based on ticket

Are there already any payment schemes

similar reactions from record companies or

sales and one off income streams related to

discussed indicating how much promoters­

artists?

live events.

should

– No, actually we have the impression that

receive

in

royalties

for

live

recordings­?

many record companies understand that it is

In its annual meeting in November in Ber-

– No, we’ll have to negotiate this with the

helpful for the whole industry if there is an

lin,

Licensees­and their professional organisations.

incentive for the promoter to invest into the

the

German

Bundesverband­

promoters

association,

long-term success of new acts. There were

Veranstaltungswirtschaft

(BDV) has agreed to launch a collection society­

Who will decide on the levels of those

always conflicts between the different rights

of its own. VIP News spoke with Johannes

payment­ schemes?

holders regarding distribution of income in

Ulbricht­who is in charge of legal affairs at BDV

– In case the parties can’t work out a deal

the past but the music industry as a whole

about this initiative.

themselves, there would be a mediation

prospered for many years because there were

procedure­at the patent and trademark office,

incentives to invest in new talent. Any rights

Do you know the amount of royalties GVL

which is supervising collection societies. If the

holder who only thinks about defending his

(the German equivalent of the UK’s PPL,

mediation procedure fails, the case would go

share in the present environment but not

or Stena Performers in the Netherlands) is

to the high court.

about improving the environment in general is focused on the past not the future.

paying to promoters for the usage of live recordings?

In an opinion survey by the German trade

– As GVL is only representing the promoters­

publication Musikwoche regarding the

For further information please check

regarding­a very small scope of rights

news of the BDV collection society, more

http://www.bdv-online.com/

(copyright­fees on copying and storage devices

than 37 percent of the readers were of

and hardware like PCs), GVL is not paying any

the opinion that promoters should not

sum worth mentioning yet.

benefit from neighbouring rights on live recordings. Have you already experienced

15

VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

Reeperbahn Résumé “The Reeperbahn Festival has developed as the

impressed­by the place and the feel (red light,

No. 1 event of the music industry in Germany.”

prostitutes, bars - but without the feel of being

(Bernd Dopp, Warner Music Group, DE)

endangered in any way) c) the audience - the response of the audience

“It’s very close to the perfect club festival. It’s

to the concerts was extraordinary. Never saw

something that puts Hamburg easily to the

the people so enthusiastic as this year.

Detlef Schwarte, director Reeperbahn Campus

top of the current fight for attention and international­reputation within the German

And how about Reeperbahn Campus?

music scene.” (Jörg Augsburg, Der Freitag, DE)

– Concerning the Campus I was happy to see that the Networking opportunities

“Hamburg can become the Austin of Europe­.

worked quite well and every session and

The

enormous

matchmaking­was well attended. This was and

potential­ .” (Austin Powell, Austin Chronicle,

Reeperbahn

Festival

has

is an important­step for us. The same with the

US)

showcases, this was the first time we offered these opportunities­. Finally we had nine - and

“I think you’ve made the Reeperbahn Campus

most of them worked well. But this is a thing

the most relevant new music event in Germany­

that definitely can be improved and extended.

This year’s Reeperhan Festival and Reeperbahn

which is a hell of an achievement.” (Steve

These things prove that there is more and more

Campus events took place in Hamburg from

Mayall, Music Ally, UK)

business being done and the professionals use

September 21-24. These dates somewhat­

the Campus as an occasion to make contacts

clashed with the September VIP News going­

So, many people have positive things to say

and do business. This was very different two

on-line, and there was so much News in

about Reeperbahn ’11, but are the organiser’s­

years ago.

October­, we decided to leave it till now to look

happy? It is not advisable to rest on your laurels­

back on the results of the events, starting off

as European Conference events, although

One quote I received some days ago from

with comments from some of the attendant

sometimes collaborative, are now in a very

Graham­Stairs, President, Shadow Cabinet

professionals:

competitive market with economic pressures

Music­Group Ltd., in Ontario, Canada, might

having a greater impact on the pockets of

stress this point of view:

“Reeperbahn Festival is a great way for the

professionals­and ‘punters’ alike. We spoke

music­business to catch up at the end of

to Detlef Schwarte, director of Reeperbahn

It’s taken awhile to sort things out after

summer.­” (Rob Challice, CODA Music Agency,

Campus­.

Reeperbahn­ , but, now that the smoke has

UK)

cleared, I wanted to thank you and your I know you have visited a lot of the other

colleagues­for putting together such a great

“In fact a couple of my acts probably wouldn’t

trade events, looking back on Reeperbahn

festival. The shows that the Wilderness of

be touring mainland Europe this autumn if they

’11 how do you think you measured up?

Manitoba­played were very well received and

hadn’t been able to play Reeperbahn Festival

– Yes, I’ve experienced a lot of other industry

have produced results. Ramona Schmidt of

which highlights it’s growing importance in

events, Spot, Eusosonic, SXSW, Great Escape,

Wizard­Promotions has agreed to be their

the European touring calendar for developing

ILMC, CMW, Vienna Waves and some others­,

booking­agent for Germany, Austria and

acts.” (Steve Zapp, ITB, UK)

and this time it was apparent to me that

Switzerland; Jacco van Lanen of DoubleVee

Reeperbahn­Festival’s strength is:

Concerts­has agreed to be their booking

“The atmosphere of Reeperbahn sets a perfect­

16

agent for the Netherlands and a German label

scene for living and enjoying the rock ‘n’ roll

a) Its really unique setting. Most other events

has made us an offer for licensing the album

dream. The Reeperbahn Festival manages to

pretend that everything is next door, but often

for Germany, Austria and Switzerland. I am

exploit this, making it an event to be reckoned

it isn´t

expecting­other commitments for booking

with by fans and industry alike.” (Thomas

b) its atmosphere - quite a few international

agents in other territories. So, you made a

Rhode­, Music Export Denmark, DK)

guests who attended the first time were

good first impression on me and I will definitely

VIP NEWS >

NOVEMBER 2011

be telling others that Reeperbahn is an event where you can do business.

items than 2010 and only two instead of

Have you had time to consider particular­

three rooms. And we will have to rethink the

plans for the future?

conference­format from year to year.

– We will try to develop more formats that present­music to professionals and consumers­

This is what Reeperbahn wants to be - the gateway to the German market.

Any particular highlights?

and to establish more media channels for

– Well, it might be boring but I still very

artists to present their music. We will extend

Any other thoughts on the Conference?

much enjoy Ray’s Reeperbahn Revues when

networking­and showcase opportunities, and

– It is still very difficult to distinguish from other

professionals­ , consumers and artists come

try to offer an even better setting of Lounge,

conferences. And the interest in panels etc.

together­to have an hour of fun. I think this is a

Conference rooms and Hotel to the delegates.

seems to be generally low. So I am fine with

symbol for what makes Reeperbahn so special.

the decision we made to have less programme

Rheinkultur Is History Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com

The organizers of free open air event

continue with the event. The City Council of

at such a free event also contributed to their

Rheinkultur have decided to abandon the

Bonn appears to prefer to invest in classical

decision to stop the event. Binge drinking by

event. In a quite comprehensive press release­

music events such as the Beethoven Festival

young punters caused more trouble and led

the 8 stakeholders of the RhEINKULTUR

or other so called serious arts. In comparison

to higher­risks and significant extra security

GmbH, declared that the event, which would

the organizers of Rheinkultur only received

outlay in efforts to run the event smoothly

have celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2012,

a subsidy of €80.000 per year while the

and safely.

would not be continued.

Beethoven Festival is given 1.6 million Euro.

VIP News will follow up on this news in order

The organizers felt that neither the City

Besides the lack of support by local

to find out if this is definitely the final curtain­

Council of Bonn nor local sponsors provided

politicians­and authorities, the promoter also

for Rheinkultur or if local politicians will

enough financial and political backing to

mentioned­that current audience behaviour

undertake­a last attempt to save the event.

Rheinkultur

17

VIP NEWS > BUSINESS > NOVEMBER 2011

Live Nation – More Shows But Less Revenue in Q3 also goes for the nine months visitors results which was 35.765.000 in 2010 and this year until the end of September 35.558.000. The ancillary net revenue per attendee rose in Q3 from $16.44 to $17.54.

The financial community loves growth stories­

But

bullish

Other company segments were, in contrast,

and Michael Rapino, CEO of Live Nation

statements­, the current figures reveal, at least

contrasting

with

Rapino’s

able to increase their results: the Q3 revenue­

knows well how to cheer the investment­ in terms of revenue results and an increased

for the ticketing division of Live Nation went

chaps when saying:

“We believe the

number of events a slightly different picture

up 9.9 percent from $261.2 to $287.1

stabilization­of consumer demand for live

for the 3Q, which is nevertheless backed by

million­, the division Artist Nation reported a

events will continue into 2012 and, looking

nine months results for 2011.

revenue increase of 9.4 percent from $111.0

ahead, we are increasingly optimistic about our opportunities.”

to $121.4 million, eCommerce went up an In Q3-2011 the overall revenue dropped from

impressive 41.9 percent from $25.8 to $36.6

$1.83 to $1.79bn. The reported revenue­for

million. Also sponsoring revenues went up

Rapino also knows how to increase the

Live Nation’s concert division in Q3 went down

from $69.5 to $72.7 million. For the first

excitement­when he added: “Given the

7.3 percent, from $1.38 to $1.28bn. Rapino’s

nine months the overall revenue of Live

continued­fan demand for concerts and a

optimism probably refers to the nine-month

Nation­went up 9.7 percent from $3.825.9

growing supply of artists hitting the road,

results, where the figures for the concert divi-

to $4.198.3bn.

we are optimistic about the future growth of

sion reveal a growth of 6.2 percent from $2.6

On September 1st the Live Nation share

the global concert industry. Based on this, we

to $2.8bn. The number­of promoted events

stood at $9.13, on November 18 at $9.06.

believe­we are well positioned to generate­

in Q3 went up from 4.929 to 5.271 while the

improved returns from our business and

number of total­estimated attendances went

deliver­shareholder value.”

down from 16.489.000 to 15.561.000. That

The VIP-Booking European Live Entertainment Book Advertising in the VIP Book will make you visible to 10.000 business professionals­all over Europe. You will find no better­place to expose­your company to the whole European Live Entertainment­ Industry­.

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18

VIP NEWS > BUSINESS > NOVEMBER 2011

MUSIC IN SHARES

CTS Eventim – Below Expectations After the acquisitions of Tickercorner in

top artists­. The revenue for this part of the

Switzerland­and the See Tickets Germany

company­shrunk 21.6 percent from 253.8

division­Ticket Online came in to full effect,

down to 198.9 million Euros. This also led to

the ticketing revenue rose 22 percent from

significant lower earnings results: the EBITDA

123.9 to 151.1 million Euro. The Earnings

went down 29.6 percent, from 20.8 to 14.7

before­Interests, Taxes, Depreciation and

million Euros, the EBIT 31.7 percent from

Amortisation (EBITDA) increased from 34.7

19.4 to 13.2 million Euros.

As usual the European market leader for

to 41.0 million Euros, the Earnings before

ticketing­obtained reasonable results within

Interests, Taxes (EBIT) only rose 2.5 percent

Nevertheless

its ticketing division but the live entertainment­

from 25.1 to 25.8 million Euros. The result

Eventim­expects better earning results than

section of the corporate company­faced a

in the ticketing division of CTS Eventim is af-

last year for the ongoing business year and

significant revenue decline.

fected by costs for additional legal expenses

refers to the seasonally strong 4th quarter.

in relation with the Live Nation-CTS Eventim

On September 1st the CTS Eventim share

In the third quarter (Q3) 2011 CTS Eventim

case and additional expenses due to staff

stood at 23.50 Euro, on November 18 at

gained revenue of 82.1 million Euros, the

restructuring­measures going along with the

20.51.

combined revenue for the first nine months

purchase of Ticket Online.

with a publisher in the US on a full time basis­

the

management

of

CTS

but whilst still a Writer/Publisher Relations

this year is 345.9 million Euros, in comparison the company gained 372.4 million Euros in the

The live entertainment division is clearly

representative­with performing­rights society­

same period last year. In particular the ticketing

affected­by the deconsolidation of FKP

SESAC he and SESAC UK Representative

business appeared to be the biggest driving

Scorpio­within the revenue results and

John Sweeney explained­how acts can secure

force for the earnings results of the company.

lower numbers of concerts and shows with

US performance­fees:

19

11 > MISC > SEPTEMBER 2011 VIP20NEWS VIP NEWS > MISC > NOVEMBER

MEMBER PRESENTATION

Barley Arts Promotion The story of Barley Arts Promotion, leader for the organisation and production of entertainment and music shows, revolves around the figure of Claudio Trotta (b.1957 in Milan) Following his college years passion for the link between “high” and

1) Promotion of international artists in Italy. E.g. STING, PEARL JAM,

pop culture, he starts his career with Radio Montestella, then in 1975

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, TOM WAITS, SHAGGY, AEROSMITH, THE

he’s at Canale 96, the very first news radio, organising the first live

CURE, LENNY KRAVITZ, AC-DC, PHIL COLLINS, SLIPKNOT, METALLICA­,

shows of his life. In 1979 he graduates at the Civica Scuola di Arte

STEVIE­WONDER, RAY CHARLES, BARRY WHITE, EARTH, WIND & FIRE,

Drammatica as music operator, spending a training period at the

VAN MORRISON, B.B. KING, PAGE & PLANT, KISS, IRON MAIDEN, YES,

Teatro­alla Scala. The same year he founds BARLEY ARTS PROMOTION­

CHEMICAL BROTHERS, DREAM THEATER, PRODIGY, LOREENA MC

(first tour: JOHN MARTYN) whose name is a homage Trotta pays

KENNITT, RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE, DEFTONES, PAUL WELLER,

to one of his early passions, Anglo-Saxon country and folk. Going

LIMP BIZKIT, DEEP PURPLE, DAVID SYLVIAN, HOOVERPHONIC­, DAVID

through some TV experience (TeleRadioMilano 2), he’s involved by

BOWIE, SANTANA, FRANK ZAPPA, LORD OF THE DANCE, SHAOLIN

Lucio Salvini (chairman at Ricordi by that time) in his Country e Folk

MONKS and more.

Label project and becomes the Italian promoter for the artists in the roster. Later on, Salvini will entrust him with Artistic and Marketing

2) Promotion and production of Italian artists in Italy (NEFFA,

Direction of the Blues & Rock Project series at Carosello. As one of his

SOTTOTONO­, LITFIBA...)

latest personal side projects, Trotta edited The Milan Music Dictionary (1995), together with Paolo Zenoni. He’s one of the Founders of the

3) Production and co-production and Promotion of Festivals:

following Associations:

MONSTERS­OF ROCK, SONORIA, MILANO BLUES FESTIVAL, IRLANDA­ IN FESTA, LAGHI LOMBARDI IN FESTIVAL, FLEADH, BALKANIKA,

· ASSOMUSICA

MONZA ROCK FESTIVAL, PISTOIA BLUES FESTIVAL, COCA COLA

Italian Association of Producers and Organisers of Live Music

DANCE FESTIVAL…

Entertainment­(founded 1996): Board Director from the beginning. · YOUROPE

4) Organisation, production and promotion of Italian artist’s concerts

The European Festival Association (founded 1998): Board Director

and tours abroad (e.g. first international shows of Vasco Rossi, Eros

1998-2001.

Ramazzotti, Sabrina Salerno...)

The company, which has been doing more than 3500 live shows, festivals­and special events since 1979, operates on many levels, e.g.:

MyMusicMailer.com enables artists to MAIL their music About Our Company

to more than 6.000 venues and agencies worldwide…

VIP-Booking’s core product is the Internet’s oldest and Today VIP-Booking offers a range of tools for the

largest database for the European Live Entertainment

industry­– including VIP-News, VIP-Booking, VIP-Book

Industry www.vip-booking.com developed as a tool for

and VIP-Contract.

Mail your music to the Live Music Industry…

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

Please visit vip-booking.com for further information.

Your comments and suggestions are always appreciated.

over 30 countries.

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20

MONTHLY FEATURED ARTIST POWERED BY

Ashton Lane

ARTIST AVAILS ORBITAL Territory: WORLD Period: APRIL 2012 ONWARDS Agency: VALUE ADDED TALENT Agent: DAN SILVER Phone: +44 207 704 9720 E-mail: dan@vathq.co.uk Homepage: www.vathq.co.uk

Skid Row Territory: Europe Period: July/August 2012 Agency: ARM Entertainment Agent: Dana Strutz Phone: 1-651-483-8754 E-mail: ds@armentertainment.com Homepage: www.skidrow.com

Blaze Bayley (Wolfsbane,ex-Iron Maiden) Territory: Europe Period: March-April 2012 / Festivals - July - August Agency: Real Media Music Agent: M.Kostrec Phone: +44(0)7526171555 E-mail: miro@realmediamusic.co.uk Homepage: www.blazebayley.net

In late 2010, Esther O’Connor and her band Ashton Lane made their first visit

Firehouse Territory: Europe Period: 1/5/2012-31/5/2012 Agency: ARM Entertainment Agent: Dana Strutz Phone: 1-651-483-8754 E-mail: ds@armentertainment.com Homepage: www.firehousemusic.com

to Nashville after being stateside gigging and getting the gears in motion for the release of their debut album. Prior to this, the band was buried away deep in the recording studio for a few months writing and recording ‘Other Side’.

Ashton Lane are: Esther O’Connor (lead vocals), Tim O’Connor (guitar­, backing vocals) and James Duffin (lead guitar, backing vocals).

Esther O’Connor is the lead singer of her 3-piece band that includes­her husband­and brother. They write all their own songs, and sometimes­even co-write­with Dad! (Graeme Duffin from legendary 80’s/90’s band ‘Wet Wet Wet’). Graeme and James also produced this new album “Other Side” Ashton Lane is an internet phenomena, receiving a million.

You Tube views of their ‘Tuesday Live Sessions’ in just over a month and growing­ fast. Last month they also achieved the spot of 18th most viewed musician in

THE DOORS ALIVE - BEST DOORS TRIBUTE ACT IN WORLD Territory: WORLD Period: JANUARY 2012 ONWARDS Agency: VALUE ADDED TALENT Agent: DAN SILVER Phone: +44 207 704 9720 E-mail: dan@vathq.co.uk Homepage: www.vathq.co.uk

Wayne Henderson Territory: Europe/UK Period: January 2012 Agency: Universal Attractions Agent: Nicholas Szatmari Phone: +1.212.582.7575 E-mail: ns@universalattractions.com

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the UK and 44th most viewed musician on youtube.

She has already received support on BBC Radio 2 and on regional radio

Skid Row

nationwide­despite being unsigned. Tom Morton of Radio Scotland describing­ one of their tracks as “Neil Young meets Beyonce round at Joni Mitchell’s house”, recognising the retro flare that runs through their music and the bands love of a sassy pop hook. Journalists and fans alike recognise that Ashton Lane are trailblazers for new country-pop forging the way ahead in this new musical landscape. Esther’s previous solo albums also received 4 and 5 star reviews in the national and Scottish newspapers.

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