Bobby Brown has been working in the music industry in various roles for over 10 years, over this time he has seen the industry change and evolved into what it is today. Originally starting in a creative role, working with emerging artists in Brighton, helping with their branding, content creation, and general creative direction.
Over time the artists Bobby was working with started to receive attention from major labels and the wider industry at which point Bobby found himself spending more time in London building relationships and expanding his network, eventually morphing into a management role with Frankie Stew & Harvey Gunn.
Can you tell us how you started working with Frankie Stew & Harvey Gunn?
Frankie Stew & Harvey Gunn were one of the first acts I worked with while in Brighton, but we didn’t officially start working together until 2018.
What has been a highlight of managing Frankie Stew & Harvey Gunn?
I’d say the success of the Breathing Exercises album in 2020 was one of the proudest moments for me to date. Especially due to the timeliness of it, being such a lifejacket for so many during the pandemic. And then the impact of the live shows in September 2021 off the back of that project is something I’ll never forget.
What does a typical day look like in your job?
There is no typical day as a manager, that’s part of the reason I love the job. One day you can be on a video shoot, then touring, then negotiating deals or meeting with partners.
How do you work with artists/labels/distributors and their releases?
The artist-label/distributor relationship is one, if not the most important relationship in the industry. For me, it’s vital not to rush into a long-term commitment with someone unless you have built a solid relationship over time and understand how you can win together. For us, every release is discussed and strategised in a collaborative manner and it’s important that passion is at the heart of it all.
What’s the biggest misconception about what you do?
That it is glamorous!
What advice would you give to artists or managers, what can they do to get the most out of the area of work?
Be ambitious but set realistic targets. Make sure you are around people who want the best for you. People who recognise your potential and challenge you to fulfill it. Communicate the expectations you have of each other in the relationship and always be transparent
