Welcome to the latest edition of Six Questions With..., a weekly short and sharp interview with a live music figure. Email jhanley@nbmedia.com if you would like to take part or recommend someone for inclusion.
This week's Q&A is with Malcolm Gerrie, CEO of multi-media production company Whizz Kid Entertainment and producer of legendary 1980s music TV show, The Tube.
What was your first job in music?
My first music job was, as a teacher, producing the world premiere of a school stage show of Tommy. The production came to the attention of Lord David Puttnam who persuaded me to leave teaching for television. The next stop was The Tube for Channel 4 which ran for six years.
How long have you been in your current role?
I started Whizz Kid Entertainment in 2006, so just over a decade.
What is your favourite thing about working in the music industry?
Live music has to be my favourite thing. My three sons have been a big part of my journey. There’s nothing quite like standing in a stadium or tiny club flanked by Ross, Sean and Olly.
What is the one thing you would like to change about the business?
The lack of music on television saddens me. We are always working to turn this around. We have a unique and exciting music programme in advanced development which I hope will make it to the screens.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Of course, this is the hardest question of all so I’m picking one from the start of my career and one from down the line…in 1982 winning The Tube commission and going live to the nation on Bonfire Night! Then in 2015 I presented a music series for Sky Arts Talks Music, one of our featured artists was Tony Bennett. He is such an icon and the most perfect gentleman. I grew up listening to Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra, so to interview the great man was an incredible honour.
What's the best gig you’ve ever been to?
Jimi Hendrix at The Club-A-Go-Go in Newcastle and U2’s Live At Red Rocks - I can’t pick between them!
