Features
Pollstar Live! Updates
As Pollstar’s Feb. 19-21 events in Nashville wind closer, we have some quick and interesting updates involving names like Ralphie May, Jay Marciano, and Steve Jones.
For those well-versed in rock ‘n’ roll, the name Steve Jones may bring up one of two responses. In this case, it’s the one that was not from the Sex Pistols who also hosts a show on KROQ. No, this is Steve Jones the well-known Canadian radio businessman who oversees programming for more than 80 stations.
He will give a presentation at Pollstar Live! Feb. 21, teaching lessons from his book “Brand Like A Rock Star,” which is endorsed by artists like Gene Simmons and Alice Cooper, and record exec / artist manager Phil Carson.
The book helps businesses build powerful brands by putting the lessons of rock legends into practice.
Next up, our awards show at the Ryman Auditorium that evening is shaping up with the confirmation of host Ralphie May. The comedian, who has four Comedy Central specials under his belt, is a Tennessee native and was suggested to us from several people last time around. So, yeah, we’re excited.
As for the conference, there is plenty still coming together. WME’s Marc Geiger will moderate a panel dedicated to the young talent of the industry, while the agency’s newest veteran, Kevin Neal – agent for acts like Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line – has agreed to join in the newest addition to the event, Production Live!, which will take place at the Omni Feb. 19.
Another addition to Production Live! is AEG’s Jay Marciano who, despite his executive status, has a background in production and will have a discussion with production heavyweight Stuart Ross.
Also at Production Live! will be The Black Keys‘ Patrick Carney who will have a discussion with the Keys’ tour manager, Jim Runge.
Meanwhile, former AEG Live UK exec Rob Hallett has agreed to join the international music panel. Hallett recently announced the formation of his company Robomagic, which promises concert promotion, artist management and other resources. The panel will be moderated by Entourage Talent’s Wayne Forte, known for asking some of the coolest questions at the conference.
About 40 agencies are expected to attend “Agents Live!,” which will act as the conference’s closing reception. Agencies will set up shop in the hotel prior to the awards show, alongside several open bars and pass trays. All hotel blocks for the conference have been sold out.