Each week, our Rising Star feature introduces a new name set to shake up the industry. Here, we meet Halestorm PR's Michelle Duffy...
How did you break into the industry?
I started out doing work experience at Virgin EMI at Universal, then temped there as a press assistant for almost two years. Lauren Hales who was head of press and my boss for the first few months, left to start up Halestorm PR. Once I came to the end of my temp contract, she offered me a job with her as a publicist.
Since starting at Halestorm PR three years ago, I feel like I have really grown as a publicist and achieved many pieces of press I’m really proud of. These include my first magazine cover features with 50 Cent on the front of FHM Collections, and Counterfeit on the cover of Kerrang!
What’s the best thing about being a press officer?
I think it’s seeing a feature or review you have pitched for come to life. Especially with a big print feature which requires a photo shoot. From the first email sent, to covering the shoot, the interview, and then seeing the finished physical product on the shelves – I don’t think I will ever tire of that!
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
It is tough when you believe in a band or artist so much but you’re not able to get their story out there as widely as you had hoped.
What is the biggest myth about the music press?
I’m always surprised by the amount of people outside the music industry who think all we and music journalists do is go to gigs and parties, drink free champagne and have extortionate expenses.
In reality, while there are some brilliant perks, there is a lot of hard work, late nights and pressure. I, and most people I’ve met in this industry, do this for the love of music – not for the free drinks.
I’m also noticing more and more how stretched music journalists are.
There is often only one person running news, reviews and features sections of an entire website. It’s really important as a PR to do your research and only go to contacts with relevant artists and info, otherwise you waste time and risk relationships.
What one thing would you change about the music industry?
I would encourage people to be less immediately judgemental. I wish people could be a bit more open-minded, especially towards the new artists we’re working with. Give them a chance!
What’s your biggest ambition?
I want to keep growing as publicist and take on more and more artists. I would love to expand my roster and work on lots of different bands and artists across lots of different genres.
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