Face The Music Speaker Focus: Rebecca Young

Company: Collective Artists - Director & Senior Agent

How did you first become involved in the music business? I got my start in music interning with Sydney nightclub Purple Sneakers, which led to working in artist management at Boundary Sounds. I worked on day-to-day logistics for Philadelphia Grand Jury and Clubfeet.

What's your area of expertise and what experience do you have? I currently run a booking agency called Collective Artists. I have been an agent for around seven years, focusing on signing and developing artists and building live careers in Australasia.

What topics will you be mostly talking about at Face The Music? I am excited to be on a panel about starting new businesses! We'll be discussing the challenges that come with setting up a new company.

What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? Festival promoters and touring artists are finally being called out about gender balanced line-ups. We still have a long way to go, but it's great that the conversation is happening.

What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? There are many, but as an agent, the saturation of the live market in Australia is worrying. September in particular was one of the busiest touring periods I have seen in recent years!

What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Put yourself out there! Go to shows, and start building relationships with other punters, bands and industry professionals.