The biz's brightest new talents tell their stories - this week it's the turn of MN2S booking agent Tim Levy
How did you break into the industry?
I’ve been involved in music in an artist capacity since I was a kid writing, producing and recording. Through this I began organising various live events, most recently a residency for live electronic music at Archspace and Five Miles in London. Alongside this, I did a year’s internship at a start-up record label in Soho – it was a small team and really hands-on. After plugging away there, I began work at MN2S. We are an international music and talent agency representing the likes of DJ Jazzy Jeff, Boy George, and Brand New Heavies, we also offer PR, social media, label services, programming and brand partnerships. I started on their agent training programme and became an agent in 2018.
What is your proudest achievement so far?
I get a real buzz when I book a quality show for one of my artists. Landing Kenny Dope his debut appearance at a certain high profile club in Berlin this year was a real high – that’s still to be announced and I’ll definitely be making the trip out to Germany. Also up there is signing some of my personal favourite artists, such as German DJ and producer Powel and St Louis’ Osunlade for his live show.
What’s the best way for agents to champion new talent?
It’s about balancing two sorts of shows. You need to expose growing artists to new fans through support slots on bigger shows with established names. When I book a bigger name, I’ll always suggest my up-and-coming artists for the bill. It’s just as important to maintain the lower capacity underground headline shows to keep the current fanbase happy. Developing new talent requires patience and persistence, but if you believe in the music and everyone is on the same team then it can be incredibly rewarding.
What is your dream music industry job?
Washed-up rock star, boyband lip-syncer or superstar DJ. Anything that involves overwhelming fame and crippling levels of media scrutiny.
What is your best tip for anyone trying to break into the business?
At all levels of the industry you might have to sift through one hundred ‘no’s for every ‘yes’ – the earlier you get to know this, the better.
TIM’S RECOMMENDED TRACK:
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