This week we meet Clare Everson, creative manager at Manners McDade, to talk collaboration, role models and Stormzy...
How did you break into the industry?
I studied classical music at university before teaching music in Paris for a year, where I fell in love with the French language. Back in London, I did a couple of artist management and PR internships before applying for a role in digital account management at Warner Music International (WMI). During two years there, I was nominated for the company’s first mentoring scheme and ran the brilliant Warner Music choir. I then moved to Manners McDade, which has now been my home for a year, working across sync & licensing, PR and all things creative. Since my first year at WMI, I have been editorial manager for Shesaid.so, the global network for women in the music industry, writing for and curating its international blog. It’s an amazing way to showcase the incredible projects happening all over the world, interviewing individuals and sharing news of research or events. The network itself has always been a massive inspiration and support to me.
What’s your favourite thing about your job?
Working with people who advocate the same values as I do! We are all very proactive and have our own projects in the music industry, which makes us a really supportive and collaborative team. Being passionate about making positive changes in the industry inspires a lot of our work.
What’s your best music biz story?
The day Gang Signs & Prayer went to No.1, I turned around in the work canteen to see Stormzy getting fish and chips next to me. I’m sure he probably could have gone out for lunch that day…
Who are your industry idols?
I never underestimate the power of female role models around me. Andreea Magdalina, the founder of Shesaid.so is a true inspiration and encourages me to achieve more and make an impact! Linda Walker, my first manager at WMI is also a complete powerhouse and taught me to take my seat at the board room table.
What’s your message for the next generation of music execs?
We are all able to make a difference in the industry and we should use this opportunity! Where you can, make decisions that reflect your values, rather than just talking about ideals around where we’d like the industry to be. Work together and bring other people up; nominate them, celebrate each other’s achievements, make introductions, because when we bring others up, we all benefit.
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