The biz's brightest new talents tell their stories. This week it's the turn of Time Management artist manager Georgia Strawson.
When did you decide to pursue music?
“Music drove me into politics, which I studied at London School Of Economics. It was bleak, and I became pretty disaffected with the world. After graduating in 2011, I was general manager of a bar in Oxford before dropping everything and returning to London in January 2013. My sole objective was to figure out the best way to insert myself into the music industry. A few months scuttling around looking for internships eventually landed me a job at a booking agency, and I stayed there for the next five years before throwing myself into management, full time. The universality of music and the way in which it can bring people together – particularly in a live context – was something I knew I wanted to immerse myself in. I didn’t really have any other plan beyond that – I had no idea which area of the business might suit me best – but the wonderful thing about this industry is its breadth and its scope for constant career evolution, and I’m not done yet.”
What’s been your biggest lesson?
“Resilience. I don’t believe in sugarcoating: this industry is notoriously tough, and replete with bullies. You have to learn to be self-sufficient and independent, even when working with fantastic people. There’s no right or wrong and no rules, certainly no ‘how to’ guide. You can’t foresee what each day will throw at you; building the strength and tenacity to move forward must remain at the forefront.”
What’s your proudest achievement?
“From a business perspective, being able to continue into my second year operating independently, without taking on another job. This wouldn’t have been possible without being part of the inaugural MMF x YouTube Accelerator programme. As a manager, it’s discovering Ider, two atoms of pure talent, and embarking on an adventure with them. I had no idea what I was doing and had nothing to offer them apart from unrelenting belief and conviction in their abilities as artists and musicians. I’m incredibly proud of the relationship we have, all that we’ve done and I cherish the way in which we have grown alongside each other.”
Describe your typical working day...
“Aside from the classics: inbox chaos, phone calls and meetings, there’s also tour management, budgeting, accounting, various production deadlines, A&R and creative. My focus is always nine months ahead, minimum. Whatever I’m doing today is usually something for which I’ll have already prepared. It has to be this way when you work alone, but also, I believe it’s conducive to achieving long-term goals. The fun part is when something totally unexpected gets thrown your way, whether good or bad – you’ve got to love a challenge.”
What’s you ultimate ambition?
“Finish what I’ve started, ideally with minimal fuck ups.”
GEORGIA’S RECOMMENDED TRACK:
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