BIGSOUND 2017 Speaker Focus: Roy Amar

Organisation: Bear Parts Music - Director

How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? After managing and playing in my own band, I realised how much I enjoyed the management side. I started BPM with much help and guidance from friends and colleagues. Still learning and loving it. 

What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? More and more heavy music is being played on commercial radio stations. Heavy artists are selling out larger venues and more heavy Australian artists are being recognised overseas in both sales and touring.

What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? Who knows really? The music industry is always changing and new things pop up all the time. I guess streaming is an ongoing issue that while bringing more fans to the table decreases record sales.

What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Be passionate, work extremely hard and give it your all. Have fun but remember it's a business, respond to people who want to help you in a timely manner. Be a good human.

What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the BIGSOUND conference and what are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel? The heavy music scene can only benefit from the wider music industry getting on board with the genre. For those that love what they do and want to increase their fan base and ticket sales, this is a great thing. Bands need to keep true to themselves but also know that mainstream success will help grow awareness to the genre, create opportunities and assist smaller bands making an impact.

What do you personally hope to take away from your time at BIGSOUND? A week of great experiences. Amazing live music, new connections, building on existing relationships, new exciting bands to follow, advice, friendships and a bunch of epic memories.

Which acts are you most looking forward to checking out at BIGSOUND? Drown This City of course... Polaris, Belle Haven, Press Club, Deadlights, Dear Seattle, Endless Heights, Introvert, Jess Locke, Maddy Jane, Mammals, Mansionair, sleepmakeswaves, Sloan Peterson, West Thebarton...

When and where is your panel? 6 Sep, The Judith Wright Centre, 10am.