Next up in our Crew interview series is Graeme Richmond, freelance Promoter Rep and Production Manager for some of the biggest promoters out there; DF Concerts, The MJR Group, Live Nation and more.
He’s been in the industry for over 15 years, so we grabbed 5 to chat about the moments that have paved his career so far….
What made you want to work in the live entertainment industry?
I have always had an interest in media and entertainment, gigs have been a big part of my social life. I initially went to college to study Film and TV and whilst there one of my lecturers gave me a CD for an artist he worked with. I loved the songs and knew I wanted to be more involved.
After speaking with the lecturer he took me on as a Management Assistant. I went on to study Music Management and started to work my way through various areas of the industry taking on any opportunity I could and I finally found my niche in live events.
What would say has been your career highlight to date?
There have been a few stand outs so far, looking after artists on the main stage at T in the Park was a big milestone when I started out. Working as part of the Artist Liaison Team at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Ceremonies was an incredible experience.
But I would have to say my work as the Production Manager for Country to Country Music Festival in Glasgow makes me the proudest. The festival has gone from a 2 day event in the Clyde Auditorium to 4 stages across 3 days in one of the busiest arenas in the world. It is a lot of work but genuinely my most fun weekend of the year with the greatest artists, crew and suppliers.
What is the one item you can’t do without at work?
Sounds simple but my phone. It might never stop at times but I couldn’t do half of my job without it.
The tech world moves quickly – how has it affected you in your role over the past few years?
For my role tech isn’t just the physical items, laptop, printer etc. Apps play a vital part in staying on top of things whilst working on shows and tours.
Recommendations are the best way to keep up to date with both aspects, talking with other reps, touring crew etc and finding out what works and doesn’t work. I honestly have no idea how people did this job without email or mobile phones. It’s a blessing and a curse.
What is the weirdest thing you’ve seen on a rider?
They all tend to be pretty similar to be fair however it is refreshing when artists throw in the odd curve ball. Some of the more random requests I’ve had are an air guitar, picture of the local mayor, and one band asked for a specific issue of an “American men’s lifestyle and entertainment magazine” with a bunny rabbit logo.
However I do wonder who was the first person to stick hummus on a rider??? Is it on the questionnaire before you get in the band?
