Artist Development
Every artist's career is different, which is why I've never believed in a one-size-fits-all approach. The music industry changes constantly, but the fundamentals remain the same. Great careers are built on good songs, thoughtful decisions, strong relationships and knowing when to say yes just as much as when to say no.
I've spent more than two decades helping artists navigate those decisions, working across management, record labels, live music, education and consultancy. That experience means I can offer advice that's practical rather than theoretical, whether you're releasing your first single, preparing for your first tour or planning the next stage of an established career.
The artists I work with don't come to me looking for someone to tell them what they want to hear. They come because they want honest conversations, clear thinking and someone who genuinely has their best interests at heart.
Career Strategy
The biggest challenge for most artists isn't a lack of talent; it's knowing where to focus their time and energy. Together we'll look at where you are now, where you want to be and what the most realistic path looks like. That might involve refining your goals, identifying opportunities, building your team or simply cutting through the noise to concentrate on what really matters.
Release Planning
A great release deserves more than a release date and an Instagram post. We'll develop a strategy that considers your audience, timeline, press, radio, playlists, live activity and long-term career goals, making sure each release builds on the last rather than existing in isolation.
Live Strategy
Live shows remain one of the most powerful ways to build a career, but not every gig is worth playing. I'll help you think strategically about touring, support slots, showcases, promoters, festivals and building an audience sustainably, rather than simply filling the diary.
Mentoring
Sometimes artists don't need management. They need someone independent who can challenge their thinking, answer difficult questions and provide perspective. My mentoring sessions are informal, practical and shaped around whatever you're facing, whether that's confidence, decision-making, planning or understanding how the industry works.
Music Business Advice
Record deals, publishing, management, funding, contracts, royalties, marketing, partnerships, branding, networking... there are countless moving parts in a modern music career. I'll help you understand them, make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes without drowning you in unnecessary jargon.
International Opportunities
Some of the most exciting opportunities now exist beyond the UK. Through my work with international trade missions, conferences, festivals and cultural exchange programmes, I help artists understand how to build meaningful relationships overseas and recognise when international opportunities genuinely make sense for their career.
I have followed the artists that you have developed and have seen the vast creative and business growth in these artists with your professional guidance. I have contacted you on many occasions for professional advice and you have always been forthcoming with this, and your wealth of music industry knowledge has helped guide me on many occasions. You are one of the few people in the industry who genuinely cares about artists, venues, crews, and everyone involved in the industry.
Martin Moscrop - A Certain Ratio
Recent work
Recent projects have included supporting the development of Georgian as they built momentum through national press, radio and live opportunities, advising Ibibio Sound Machine on international strategy, mentoring emerging artists through SXSW and Factory Sounds, and working with independent artists to develop release campaigns, secure industry partnerships and build sustainable long-term careers. My work isn't about creating overnight success stories. It's about helping artists make better decisions that stand the test of time.
What artists say
The best measure of artist development isn't how many meetings you've had; it's whether artists feel more confident, more informed and better equipped to build their careers afterwards. That's why so much of my work comes through recommendations, returning clients and long-term relationships.
