Hence we set about thinking about what would be the most relevant topic of debate for people working in the Independent sector at present. We sent a proposal, along with ideas of the sort of people we thought should be involved, to In The City, and arranged a meeting to discuss them. Although, we believe In The City appreciated what we were trying to do, it became apparent that this did not fall into what they felt was their remit. There was also an issue, in that we were very much aiming the debate at small and DIY labels, which on the whole, is the industry that exists in the North West (and in fact everywhere outside of London), and hence wanted to make the event either free of charge, or as cheap as possible.
Despite the fact that In the City could not accommodate our idea, we felt that it was still important to try and pursue it. In developing the proposal we had discussed it with several other local labels, and industry figures, and already a very healthy and positive dialogue had been developing. Several influential people, including Mike McNally, a music consultant who had previously ran one of EMI’s labels, Andrew Dubber, a new music strategist from Birmingham City University, and Michael Fuller, the head of business affairs at AIM, had all agreed to get involved in the idea however it manifested itself.
Hence, we took the decision to develop our own independent panel, based on the initial idea that we put to In The City. We started to think of other people that we though it would be worthwhile getting involved. Having drawn up a list, we started to invite people, explaining the idea, and ethos. It became apparent very quickly, that what we were proposing was very interesting to a lot of people. The people we invited replied immediately, wanting to get involved, and letting us know that they had already mentioned it to other people they know, and they wanted to come along and get involved too.
What's the structure behind the organisation? Is it all volunteers/non-profit?
It is all not for profit. It is made up of the Fat Northerner Records team and Howard from Humble Soul and Duncan from Red Deer Club.
It was at the same time as ITC in Manchester. Why did you decide to do that?
We initially felt that those attending ITC could attend out event as well, but what happened was that we attracted people who would not normally go to ITC. So we could hold the event at anytime. Next year, we intend to hold the event early in the year.
How did you choose the panellists? Did people approach you or did you approach them?
We contacted panellists from those people in the industry we knew and who had helped us at some point. They all replied quickly saying they would love to be involved. We have now developed a board for the event, made up of some really key industry personnel.
How did you promote the convention? Who were you targeting as an audience?
We promoted it through national and local press, the idea was written about in loads of publications. We also promoted through independent music networks and out own networks. We were targeting those involved in the independent sector (music and other creative industries).
How did you get funding?
We didn’t!
Any advice for anyone wanting to organise there own convention?
We just took a risk and did something that we thought would help people understand the current changes to the industry. We wanted to do something for the grassroots and it worked.
What were the highlights, or lowlights, of this years convention?
The bands were all exceptional - Down The Tiny Steps, Cynic Guru, Pacific!, Stranger Son of WB, Denis Jones, Sophie’s Pigeons, John Stammers, Beth Jeans Houghton, Graham Massey’s Toolshed, Silverclub, Cats In Paris, The Ironweed Project.
The panels were a great success – we got loads of amazing feedback.
What are you plans for the future?
To do it all again next year, build the event and get more people involved.
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