The business about music

A London music agent and Southampton musician discuss the struggle of making it in the music industry.

One trip to a local open mic night will reaffirm that for some aspiring musicians, life means anything but their name in bright city lights. Hotdog and hamburger parades flood into the venues for ice cold beer and deep-fried food, emitting smiles and sighs of appreciation. Yet not one of those is directed to the poor souls pouring their hearts into music for the hope that one day, they'll get noticed.

Picture: Courtesy Burn the Fleet

Regretfully, it's not a rare circumstance for amazing musicians to let their dreams pass them by without having put their utmost into achieving them. Getting caught up in a modern life of office work and the classic 'nine to five' is far easier than what can sometimes seem an endless struggle.

Without a doubt, becoming a musical phenomenon, let alone working out how to get noticed, is no easy ride. Nevertheless, it sure is possible.

But don't take our word for it. Take it from the professionals. William Aspden is an agent for Coda, London's famous music agency which represents artists such as Example, Katy B and Emile Sandé. "I work with artists, managers and promoters to plan future strategies for our artists," he explains.

Also here to help is James Swabey, guitarist of Southampton's very own rock and alternative band, Burn the Fleet. They've gained recognition from Last FM, Radio 1 and Kerrang, and have toured overseas in Germany to crowds of foreigners singing their lyrics back to them. James is not blind, however, to the struggles of a musical career.



It's not to say you shouldn't aim for the sky, but you can't expect success to land on your doorstep. "When we started writing and recording our music we had no idea we would gain the fan base we have now," explains James.

Whilst occasionally playing to crowds of people that couldn't care less can make you feel your music is undervalued, it is the proven good place to start. "You have to be prepared to do anything that you can to be involved in the industry - and expect to do it for little or no money," says William. "It's a slow process."

However, getting your name out there and fastening a few venues to your belt can eventually lead to success. It certainly worked for Burn the Fleet. "We started by playing a lot of hometown shows," says James. "It definitely helped us win over the Southampton scene."

Next thing you know, you could be playing elsewhere with an ever growing fan base. "It's about taking a chance on what you love. We've had to get several jobs to pay the rent," says James. "It can be a tricky situation."

"We've always aimed to succeed by taking risks, working hard and trying something different. Others will succeed just through who they know," James adds.

So what about TV talent shows; what's the deal with them? Out of thousands of people who enter, there is only one act which gets summersaulted into fame each series. Are they worth a try?

"At the end of the day talent shows are a massive industry which in themselves create millions of pounds for TV companies," William asserts. "I don't have a problem with them or anything, but in the line of work at Coda, we don't always aim for the mainstream. We take pride in musicians who are prepared to be a little different from what's out there."

"It keeps things fresh and the industry rolling," he continues. "Otherwise people will inevitably get bored."

William believes honesty and self-belief are the crux of a successful career: "You have to be confident in yourself and who you are as a musician. Be sure of what you like and don't succumb to other people's opinions."

James too, says: "I think it's crucial that every member in the band has a passion for the music they write. If passion isn't there, it wont show in the music."

The general public, on the other hand, are a different matter. Not everyone is going to like your music. The Beatles had haters back in the day, for crying out loud.

"Some of the hottest artists on my roster were not liked by my friends when I first started working with them," says William. "There is so much out there nowadays and so many different opinions. Good music is impossible to define."

"Just do something interesting," says William. "Then get people on board using social media sites. Facebook likes, YouTube views and Twitter followers are increasingly important now."

Of course, it is far from unheard of that the music industry has incurred significant changes since the boom of online media. "People are much less concerned with albums than they used to be," explains William. "It's more about that big tune. It's very online-driven."

James vouches for that too, adding: "Our YouTube video for River Song - which was released last year with Rock Sound Magazine - definitely expanded our fan base." Above all else, James' best advice is to: "Be enthusiastic and go into the industry with an open mind. Remember that anything is possible." Amen to that!

Ever dreamt of buying for a living?

www.dreamstime.com

The vast majority of fashion folk among us would probably love the opportunity of buying the things they love and earning a living doing it.

In such a competitive industry, booting that swanky shoe of yours through the iron gates and into fashion paradise can feel a whole way away from where you’re at now. There are times where it seems even the savviest, Louboutin-heel-wearing diva and enviably dashing dude don’t manage to burst the bubble which surrounds one of the world’s most sought after industries to work in. But it can and does happen, however!

That’s why I caught up with the successful, inspirational Suzanne Dunusinghe, a BA (Hons) Fashion Promotion graduate of 2003. I questioned her on the journey she took to becoming the Senior Assistant Buyer at Britain’s leading online fashion retailer, ASOS.com. There’s one very good lesson to be learnt; that your time at university is not to be taken for granted.

 1. What was your experience at university?

I really enjoyed my time at Southampton Solent. I thought the teachers were really good and I had some great classmates who turned out to be best buddies for life. I also had an amazing time partying - whilst working very hard of course!

2. How did you make the most it? 

It was definitely all about both working and playing hard! Southampton is a fantastic campus town and living away from home gives you great life experience. It’s also a good time to make some strong friendships and learn a lot. Be sure to enjoy every minute of it!

It also gave me the time to try and find out exactly what it is that I loved, which has undoubtedly driven me further in life. I really wanted to make sure that I took the opportunity to build on my passions whilst I was there too.

3. What would you change if you went back again?

I do wish that I’d have tried to get some placements during the summer. It would have been a huge advantage once I had left. From teaching and training interns in the various job roles I’ve had over the years, it has really shown me how much you can get out of work placements. The interns I’ve worked with have even said that it provides such a good grounding for working life.

4. Were you anxious about working life once you graduated?

Well I actually left feeling very excited about what was coming next. When I first left I spent a lot of time working in the retail sector meeting new friends, whilst also freelancing as an illustrator for various hair magazines.

5. How did you get into buying?

The pressures of freelancing as an illustrator at the time were quite tough as you struggle to find more work. I really wanted to get into fashion.

I sent my CV to so many recruiters. All of my lunchtimes and evenings were spent trying to get interviews in any fashion role. The hardest part was definitely trying to get an interview. Most employers wanted some kind of experience, which I didn’t have.

I eventually got an interview for a role as a buyer’s assistant at MK One.

So when I went along I knew that I would have to push it really hard and ended up getting the job! Then once I got my foot in the door I was constantly trying to push my career further, which is how I ended up where I am today!

6. What does your typical working day entail?

There are so many things to mention in my day to day role! I have two main roles within ASOS.com. To begin with, I work as a buyer on branded accessories.

So first thing in the morning I check our daily sales figures to see how each line is performing and look for opportunities to trade stock. If a certain line is performing really well then I’ll get some more in. Then I’ll look at the worst sellers and see what can be done to improve the situation.

I am currently in the midst of AW12 orders from brands at the moment, which is when a few deadlines start looming. So I have to write up various orders on excel to then send to suppliers. There is a lot of admin involved in the role, alongside the creative aspects.

Then my second role is managing the ASOS AFRICA collection, an ethical collection designed in-house and all produced in Kenya. It’s good to know that we are helping people in some way.

Today was really exciting as all the styles were handed over to the production team for a photo-shoot with a model. I often get the chance to work alongside the stylist and choose outfits for each shot. It’s always a great feeling to see months of hard work coming together and looking ace!

Then once I’m back in the office, it’s back to checking details of orders on the system. As I am in quite a senior role now I also have the task of catching up with my assistant, seeing how the preparation of items for photo shoots is coming along and managing any issues with the products.

A lot of multitasking and problem solving is required as there can be lots of issues on a day to day basis, with deliveries for example.

7. What are the key traits that you should possess for a career in your field?

You have to be really determined, have a solid and up-to-date knowledge of trends and have your own opinion. It’s also of integral importance to have a good eye, attention to detail and creative flair.

8. What’s the best part of your job?

Nothing beats seeing all the styles go live. It’s catching people wearing the collections that you’ve chosen that is really rewarding. Seeing your chosen brands do really well and exceed their planned sales figures is definitely a good feeling.

9. Are there any tedious aspects of the job? 

As with any job there are down sides, of course. There is a lot of admin to work, as well as late nights and weekends, but it’s all really worth it in the end. Especially since you get a good discount!

10. What would your advice be to students and graduates wanting to
pursue a career in the same field as you?

In your spare time I would definitely recommend trying to get some kind of work placement or permanent position as a buyer’s assistant if possible. If you don’t have the time then make sure you research the company you want to get into really well when applying for jobs so that you can tailor your CV to meet their needs.

Once you get an interview you’re half way there and have a strong chance of getting the job. That’s when you have to be positive and really push yourself. Do something which will make you stand out, like a small project on the company to present in the interview on the day.

OOPS! Impulse buys...

It's been another one of those days where suddenly my card details make their way on screen and a few minutes later I realise that I've just spent money I don't technically have...


But I remember my reasoning now. See, too many times have things been delivered which then look crap on me. So I end up never getting anything, as they go straight back to the shop. So the idea was that I order loads and then send most back.

Here are the picks, all available from Boohoo.com, along with the reasons why I chose them:

£15

•  Love the shorter at the front, longer at the back thing. Definitely perfect for some days in the park, when sitting down in certain dresses can lead to unlawful exposure of self.

• Wrap dress - great for the hourglass figure as it draws attention to the waist area.

• Monochrome means that I could either wear it with or without black tights depending on the weather!

£10

• For some reason I like the murky brown colour.

• Looking like a bug = good.

£15

• Scarf print is big at the moment and I'm not too keen on a lot of it. That's until I saw this! The red, yellow and white mix of colours is very nice and not too in-your-face.

• Again, nice rouching at the waist, to prevent looking like a sack of potatoes.

• Could either be dressed up or down with either leggings, a bodycon skirt or shorts.

£20

• I'm in love with polka dots.

• The blue and white is an ultra cute combination. Not the usual 'me' look, but I really fell in love with the overall dress.

• Love the wrap detailing - I think that's really flattering for figures like mine (hourglass). This dress would probably be particularly flattering for pear shapes due to its puffed sleeves. However, I'm in love with puffed sleeves anyway, even if they do make my shoulders look wider than they already are!

£25

• Those who know me are probably thinking 'Aah! Classic Jasmin!' YEP! That's right, another cute 50's style dress... What's not to love?

• Monochrome: tick! Draws attention to the waist: tick! Cute: tick!

£8

• When I first saw this, I have to say I was a little confused - as you probably are now! However, I think this dress could be either a hit or miss situation...

• I envisage wearing it with a thin black waist belt, fat gold studs and my hair up in a bun or ponytail. We shall see, we shall see!

£25

• Eek! How cute are these? I'm so in love! Here's why...

• Personally, I'm all about the accessories. The colour of red is so gorgeous, and the velvet texture makes a nice change - all in all definitely making the shoes a statement piece. 

• I'm a fan of the chunky shoe look, personally I think I would look odd dilly-dallying around in slender kitten heels - so these are perfect! Plus they're platforms, which means for shorties like me, they're our best friend :)

Which item is your favourite?

Live Review: Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs

Most dance music acts tend to rock up on stage, all guns blazing, unleash their sets and head off. But this was far from the case. Native American headdresses, dinosaur costumes, wigged dancers and confetti cannons aggrandised the performance of Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs at Southampton’s quirky Orange Rooms.

Orlando Higginbottom, the producer and singer known professionally as TEED, has hit the industry by storm – a big bang, in fact. With a fresh outlook on dance music, a unique style of music production, and an unforgettable name; it’s no wonder the one-man-act was snapped up last year by major record label Polydor.

Following the release of breakthrough single ‘Garden’, TEED continues to be noticed across the globe. If you’re unfamiliar with the act, you’ll soon find out that his musical style is considerably hard to pin down; all adding to TEED’s appeal and notable recognition.

Anticipation, excitement, hunger and impatience brewed in the lead up to the TEED frontman’s entrance. It was a full house. There was pushing aplenty - not to mention screaming.

The moment Orlando set foot on stage, the screams were amplified. But once they faded into somewhat ‘orgasmic’ groans, the atmosphere suddenly turned.

If you’d have walked in at that precise moment, you’d have expected the worst. It seemed as if the crowd had been punched in the face by Orlando’s presence.

www.orangerooms.co.uk

What better way to make an entrance than in a multi-coloured African tribal shirt, quirk-ified with several Jurassic feathers jutting out from an oversized collar? Almost a spiritual affair, the crowd’s heart rate slowed – regardless of their Vodka Red Bull intake moments prior.

The lead in to the set saw a sterile house vibe drop, incorporating a dash of tribal influence. Heads began to bop. All eyes were mesmerised, glancing up at the wondrous Orlando - backlit by the lighting display which resembled three coffins appropriately shaped like a dinosaur claw.

With Orlando bouncing faster between laptop, drum machine and keyboard, the vibe progressed. Out came ‘Trouble’ – a 70’s pop influenced dance track.

With mindless vocals unleashed over a repetitive beat, the audience scrambled into an intensely profound state. And with the ignition of confetti cannons signalling the start of something a little filthier, each soul was hurled into action. 

Very much emblematic of TEED’s outlook on dance music, a variety of sounds, feels and vibes were incorporated into the set. Progressively and intoxicatingly powerful, it seemed even the venue couldn’t handle the atmosphere; with the speakers going up in smoke in the midst of action.

If that wasn’t enough, a quick-fix later, on came the dancers. Dressed in sexy, skin-tight dinosaur outfits, complete with chunky sequin embellished tails; they flung their bodies around like two ghetto girls on acid, grinding around on stage to the crowd’s roar. And with a change in mood, a change in persona was also in order.

From ghetto to girly, an outfit change saw them in cloaks and leotards conveniently positioned like ‘bare all’ hot pants. Flaunting a flirtatious persona, these chicks could do ‘50s housewife cheeky’ on demand. And when the music got dirtier, so did they.

The set felt like an all-out performance. Way more than you bargained for. An occasion you’d imagine going for dinner in London prior. Then lounge in some exclusive members club, before tottering up to be greeted by a man in a top hat, wooing you into spending more money.

Yet TEED’s aim is to deliver un-stereotyped, non-conventional, uncategorised dance music to people far and wide – not limited by any specific scene. And he delivered just that.

The atmosphere stirred insanity amongst the crowd; a mixture between some sort of mental hard house night and a religious gathering. Ecstatic. Reverent. Euphoric. Delirious. Orbiting around cloud nine. And when the beat dropped, you felt as if you were pushed over the moon right down onto it.

Orlando really has such radiant spirit; you just can’t help but succumb to his charisma. The out of body experience he provided was like riding a musical rollercoaster of electrical poetry. It draws you in, grips you, and refuses to let you go until the last note fades away into the nothingness of an elated audience.

Finishing the set with the heavy bass lines of ‘Sickly Child’ followed by a double-dosage of dubstep – always a winner at the end of the night – the crowd were left in a somewhat hypnotic state.

Tones echoed through your mind and sparks of musical electricity danced on your skin as you left, suspended in a state of contentment. But like waking up from an eventful night out, going over it all in your head – you soon realise that all it is now is just a long lost memory.

Enviable artwork

So I'm a fan of a hell of a lot of art. But I must admit; there are certain pieces that I wouldn't allow anywhere near the place I call 'home'. 

A lot of the time with art, it's the hidden meaning and emotions that I fall in love with. Those pieces that intrigue you, gobble you up and leave you in deep thought for ages afterwards.

But at the same time, I can't get enough of something that's just damn pretty. 

That's not to say that there's nothing behind them. There is no one way of defining artistic quality. That would be bloody boring.

So here's a couple I've had my eyes on. Screw it, I'll make space for them somewhere!

"For You Alone" by Kelly Allen.

Oil and acrylic on panel 30 x 24 inches.

Buy here

"Crusify Me Again. Again." By David Bray.

£50 - Gyclee Print, 21cm x 29cm, Limited Edition 25, Signed & Numbered.

Typographic Ts! (Guys only)

Retro, classic, or joyfully weird and curiously wonderful; I've always been a fan of typography. 

Even the slightest serif can jazz up any type. So I was delighted (and also dreadfully disappointed) to come across 8teeSix's selection of typographic Ts. The issue being... I'm not a guy.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not after a sex change quite yet.

But if I were, I wouldn't think twice before purchasing the whole selection. At £20 each, made in sweatshop-free conditions and 100% cotton - it's smiles all round. 

Check 'em out:

shop.8teesix.com

shop.8teesix.com

shop.8teesix.com

shop.8teesix.com

Juicy swimsuits

Oh my! Never before have I seen such deliciously scrumptious swimsuits in my life. With 50s inspired prints and cuts, they are to DIE for. 

Juicy Couture have done well. So nice on the eye... yet so nasty on the wallet. Oh well! They're worth daydreaming over.

Now the above, my friends, is my all time favourite swimsuit, of... wait for it... ALL time! This is so incredibly Marilyn Monroe. 

It embodies all the characteristics that - I believe - are what women are/should be all about. Feminine, playful and down right sexy! You don't get a much more flattering swimsuit colour for olive skin either. £172 - Asos

So... that's what I thought until I found this mofo. Ooh lala! Love the cut. Love the rouch. Love the belt. Love the cherries. 

It really is a tough call between this one and the one above it. If I had the funds, I would have both - but perfection doesn't come cheap I'm afraid! £200 - Asos 

Sometimes I find skirt detailing on swimsuits can be a little childish. However, with the lovely rouch all over the suit, this is good enough to wear out (if you're a little out there, that is). 

This is more of a cut for smaller breasts, however. Those who are well equipped in that department may find a 'bulging over the top' situation occurring - oops! £182 - Asos