Rock supremo who signed Oasis speaks at LMBS
17th March 2009
Alan McGee, the music industry entrepreneur and musician, famed for founding Creation records, signing Oasis and managing the Libertines came to London Met on February 28 to speak to students in the Business School.
Alan arrived in the morning when he was interviewed by Steve Gray, the editor of the Student Union newspaper. This interview will soon be published by the students union.
During the interview, Steve and Alan discussed the music industry and the skills needed to succeed in a competitive and often unpredictable industry. Alan expressed great concern over the future of record companies and spoke about new methods of promotion such as artist self-release models and the growing significance of the live music sector.
A question and answer session followed and students interested in, or studying Music and Media Management were able to ask Alan about his experience in the industry.
Students were eager to find out how artists could best advance their careers during this unprecedented period of upheaval in the music industry; Alan stressed the importance of tenacity and self-belief in this climate.
When asked which qualities draw him to particular acts, Alan spoke about finding authentic and individual artists who possess their own quirky world view.
Alan also talked about the behind-the-scenes realities of working with some of the most high-profiled bands in the alternative rock circuit.
The event was organised by Barrie Cunning, a student on the BA Music and Media Management course, the editor of the Students’ newspaper, Steve Gray and staff from the Business School including Janet Geary and Peter Dyson.