Director, Music For Nations
A moment in your career when you really backed yourself.
“Going into Sony. I’d run an independent label for 25 years, so when I was offered the job, self-doubt crept in. Then I thought, I know what I’m doing. I’m very specialised at what I do. I’ve earned this.
I did get a strange backlash from people in the underground scene accusing me of selling out, which was a shot to the heart. I’d spent 25 years not selling out! But I backed myself and knew this was something I’d earned.”
One thing you’re proud of in your career.
“It’s not always the huge celebrations or massive wins. It’s the daily glimmers that I think are more important.
I ran Subverse, the UK’s first all-ages nightclub, where kids could come and discover loud music. We had bands like Bring Me The Horizon and Bullet For My Valentine play to 300 or 400 kids.
Years later, I discovered Ellie Rowsell from Wolf Alice had gone as a kid and had been inspired by it. I’m so proud of that. To know something you created had that impact is pretty special.”
Name another woman in music who inspires you, and why.
“Karen Emanuel, my compadre and partner in crime. She took me under her wing nearly 30 years ago when I was at an industry event absolutely terrified of networking. I was this lonely alternative goth kid, and Karen just said, “Come with us,” gave me a glass of white wine, and I sat with her and Emma Banks.
I’ve been friends with Karen ever since. We’re similar but also very different, which is why we work so well together. She’s a self-made, born entrepreneur, and she’s definitely the woman I’d choose.”
