The biz’s brightest new talents tell their stories. This week it's the turn of Audio Network A&R manager, Andrea De Leon.
How did you break into the biz?
While studying studio production at Buckinghamshire University, one of my lecturers started an indie record label, which I began scouting for. After graduating, I interned in A&R and sync at One Little Indian Records and then at Giant Artist Management, where I went on to become an assistant. It was all brilliant experience with music I was passionate about. I went on to work as a day-to-day manager to a few major label artists, fast-forward to now, and I’m working as an A&R manager for Audio Network. I also run For Nothing Management and manage my own artist, Iyamah. I want to give a big shout out to Sam Potts and Remi Harris from YGN, a network created by young people for young people who have brought myself and many others through.
Who are your music biz icons?
I would definitely say Sylvia Rhone, the current president of Epic Records, she’s an inspiration as the first African-American woman to lead a major record label. I also really respect Richard Russell for the culture he’s created at XL Recordings.
What’s been the biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge for me was finding a permanent role within a company that I felt was going in the right direction for me. I decided to take the risk and left a full-time job to intern within a company I was passionate about, while still working part-time. Luckily, the risk paid off!
What’s your proudest achievement so far?
Releasing great tracks is definitely the biggest motivator for me. If I have to pick a moment, however, it would be being part of an award-winning Classical BRIT Award campaign with Alfie Boe.
Is this the best era ever to be young and working in music?
I feel like every era would have seemed like it was buzzing for those who were young and involved at the time, but it feels like now is definitely a time of opportunity. There are more and more forward-thinking and unique business models emerging for people to get into, such as Audio Network’s sync and commercial project. It’s not just your standard label, and it’s an exciting time at the company. The capacity to find people and grow your connections is getting easier and I see more and more people working on multiple projects, utilising all their skills, which is a great thing!
ANDREA’S RECOMMENDED TRACK:
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