Each week, Music Week profiles the brightest new talents in the business. This week, Angela Mastronardi of Sony/ATV tells her story...
How did you break into the music industry?
Good old-fashioned grind. I knew from my early teens that I wanted to work in music. I did what I could at that age and focused my education choices towards subjects I thought would help, then I wrote to companies for internships and read trade papers. I got a placement at CD:UK, which led to a runner position every Saturday for 12 weeks. I left university and landed my first job as management assistant at Lateral Management, looking after Paloma Faith, Taio Cruz and John Martin. Three years later, I applied for my current position.
What’s your proudest achievement so far?
Being invited to the House Of Lords to give a speech on Type 1 diabetes. My proudest work achievement was promotion to my current role. I love helping with international clearances, most recently, I worked on Cartier’s Christmas ad for the French office. I also contributed to winning Best Video Game Trailer for Avelino’s Energy at Music Week’s Sync Awards 2017.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
There are too many things to list, but here are a few: working with a great roster, keeping my finger on the pulse with up and coming artists, liaising with approval parties to help them get the best deal for their writer, watching a show or advert on television and recognising the accompanying music as one that I licensed… The list goes on.
What’s the biggest challenge?
Ensuring I stick to managing my time so I can fit in what’s important to me. As well as focusing and working hard on my career, I love socialising and spending quality time with family. Exercising is very important to me (especially playing football for my team, Kensington All Stars) and also seeing my partner once in a while is kind of important!
What advice would you give to those looking to break into the biz?
Never give up! It’s a tough industry to crack and establish yourself in, but you need to remind yourself it’s not impossible. Find a way to get your foot in the door and then keep learning and meeting people. You have to fully believe in your potential and remember your uniqueness will bring something new to the table. Just remember it only takes one person to believe in you and give you a chance. Try and gain as much work experience as possible, enjoy the journey and treat people with respect.
What’s your greatest ambition?
To continue working within publishing and gain a reputation based on my merits by working hard and giving my very best.
ANGELA'S RECOMMENDED TRACK:
Emeli Sandé - Higher (Feat. Giggs)
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