Generator Live -
Conference

Brought to you by
Generator x BBC Music Introducing

CLICK THE LINKS BELOW TO DISCOVER PANEL TIMES & SPEAKERS:

BALLROOM

11:00-12.30

REGISTRATION

12:30-13.30

WELCOME & KEYNOTE

  • Mick Ross (CEO, GENERATOR)
    Michelle Escoffery (PRESIDENT OF MEMBERS COUNCIL, PRS FOR MUSIC)

13:00-13.45

INSIDE THE MUSIC INDUSTRY: ROUNDTABLE

  • Vanessa Bakewell (GLOBAL CLIENT PARTNERSHIP LEAD, META)
    Yaw Owusu (CREATIVE DIRECTOR, NOTHIN BUT THE MUSIC)
    Tony Harlow (CEO, WARNER MUSIC UK)
    Michelle Escoffery (PRESIDENT OF MEMBERS COUNCIL, PRS FOR MUSIC)
    David Martin (CEO, FEATURED ARTIST COALITION)
    Paul Bonham (DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MUSIC MANAGERS FORUM) 

  • A dynamic round table with high-profile speakers as they delve into the inner workings of the music industry. This robust conversation will explore the complexities of industry operations, offering candid insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

    Join us for an in-depth discussion on what truly drives the music business today. 

14:30-14.45

MUSIC AS A PRIORITY SECTOR:
A NORTHERN FOCUS

  • Mick Ross (CEO, GENERATOR)
    Kim McGuinness (MAYOR OF THE NORTH EAST)
    Jennifer Hartley (DIRECTOR, INWARD INVESTMENT -NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD INITIATIVE)
    Charlie Kemp (HEAD OF CREATIVE PLACE, TEES VALLEY COMBINED AUTHORITY)

  • Discover how local leadership in the North is prioritising music as a key sector for regional development. This panel features North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, and other regional leaders, discussing strategies for fostering a vibrant music scene, supporting local artists, and integrating music into broader economic and cultural initiatives. Gain insights into how music is being championed as a vital component of community growth and regional identity. 

14:45-15.30

BREAK

  • Adele White (SENIOR A&R MANAGER, UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP)
    Josh Daniel (LABEL MANAGER, INTERVAL RECORDS)
    Craig Shardlow     (A&R DIRECTOR, ATLANTIC RECORDS)

  • Join us for a practical discussion with label and artist managers on how to approach record labels effectively. Learn key strategies for crafting compelling pitches, what labels are seeking, and how to build strong industry relationships. This session offers essential tips and insider knowledge to help you find your own path and get off on the right foot.

15:30-16.15

APPROACHING RECORD LABELS EFFECTIVELY

  • Daniel Jones (WRITER RELATIONSHIP MANAGER, PRS FOR MUSIC)
    Tim Miles (SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, SYNC UK & EUROPE, WARNER MUSIC GROUP)
    Chelsea Wood     (DIRECTOR, GOT MUSIC)
    Liam Reay     (DIRECTOR, WIPE OUT MUSIC)
    Davy Wales     (MEMBER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, PPL)

  • Explore how to maximise your earnings from music with this informative panel on PPL and PRS royalties. Industry experts will explain how these royalties work, share key strategies for ensuring you get paid, and offer practical tips for managing your rights and income.

16:30-17.15

MAKING MONEY FROM
YOUR MUSIC

17:30

CLOSING REMARKS

BALLROOM - SPEAKERS

  • Vanessa Bakewell

    Vanessa Bakewell

    Global Client Partnership Lead, Meta
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Paul Bonham

    Director of Professional Development, Music Managers Forum
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Michelle Escoffery

    President of Members Council, PRS for Music
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Tony Harlow

    CEO, Warner Music UK
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio
  • Kim McGuinness

    Kim McGuinness

    Mayor of the North East 
    Panel: Music as a Priority Sector:
    A Northern Focus 

    Read Bio
  • Yaw Owusu

    Yaw Owusu

    Creative Director, Nothin But The Music
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • David Martin

    CEO, Featured Artist Coalition
    Panel: Inside the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Mick Ross

    CEO, Generator
    Panel: Music as a Priority Sector: A Northern Focus

    Read Bio

  • Josh Daniel

    Label Manager, Interval Records
    Panel: Approaching Record Labels Effectively

    Read Bio

  • Craig Shardlow

    A&R Director, Atlantic Records UK
    Panel: Approaching Record Labels Effectively

    Read Bio

  • Tim Miles

    Senior Vice President, Sync UK & Europe, Warner Music Group
    Panel: Making Money From Your Music

    Read Bio

  • Chelsea Wood

    Director, Got Music
    Panel: Making Money From Your Music

    Read Bio

  • Liam Reay

    Director, Wipe Out Music
    Panel: Making Money From Your Music

    Read Bio

  • Davy Wales

    Member Development Manager, PPL
    Panel: Making Money From Your Music

    Read Bio

  • Adele White

    Senior A&R Manager, Atlantic Records
    Panel: Approaching Record Labels Effectively

    Read Bio

  • Daniel Jones

    Writer Relationship Manager, PRS for Music 
    Panel: Making Money From Your Music

    Read Bio
  • Nicola Coaker

    Nicola Coaker

    Founder, Nrthrn Baby
    Panel: Approaching Record Labels Effectively

    Read Bio

  • Paul Lennon

    Head of Music, Statham Gill Davies
    Panel: Approaching Record Labels Effectively

    Read Bio
  • Jennifer Hartley

    Jennifer Hartley

    Director, Inward Investment -NewcastleGateshead Initiative
    Panel: Music as a Priority Sector: A Northern Focus

    Read Bio

WEDGEWOOD

13:00-13:45

HE. SHE. THEY.

  • Steven Braines (HE.SHE.THEY)

  • Explore diverse viewpoints on the music industry with the HE SHE THEY. This discussion will highlight the experiences and contributions of underrepresented voices, offering insights into how diversity shapes and enriches the music landscape. Join a meaningful conversation on fostering inclusivity and equity within the industry. 

14:00-14:45

BBC INTRODUCING LISTENING PANEL

  • Shakk Hashemi (PRESENTER, BBC INTRODUCING NORTH EAST)
    Maia Beth     (PRESENTER, BBC RADIO 1)
    Scott Lewis     (LABEL MANAGER, EMI NORTH)

  • Get your music in front of BBC Introducing and some of the most influential A&R people in the industry, ready to listen and feedback on your music.

    A separate sign-up through an open call is required, only successful shortlisted applicants will have their music presented to the panel.

15:30-16.15

THINGS CAN ONLY GET BETTER?

  • Ben Wynter (DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & PARTNERSHIPS, ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT MUSIC)
    Leila d’Aronville     (NORTHERN ROOTS)
    Kay Greyson     (ARTIST)
    Nadedja Leal     (ARTIST)  

  • When reports show a minimal increase in racial equality within the music industry over the past 10 years, are things really getting better?

    In this session we hear from Black music professionals from within and outside of the North East, sharing their experiences as artists and industry leaders.

14:45-15:30

BREAK

16:30-17.15

PRESERVING THE PULSE OF LIVE MUSIC

  • Cath Hurley (HEAD OF TALENT DEVELOPMENT, FUTURE YARD)
    Caroline James     (GENERAL MANAGER, UTILITA ARENA)
    Chris Sherrington     (POLICY & STRATEGY SUPPORT, MUSIC VENUE TRUST)
    Geoff Kirkwood     (DIRECTOR, ARE YOU AFFILIATED)
    Ross Lewis     (PRODUCTION MANAGER, THE CLUNY)

  • Northern music venues are the lifeblood of the music ecosystem, serving as incubators for emerging talent and fostering vibrant local cultures. However, these vital spaces face an array of challenges—from financial pressures and regulatory hurdles to the lingering impacts of global events like the pandemic.

    The session will delve into the current state of grassroots and mainstream music venues, explore the obstacles they confront, and highlight actionable strategies and initiatives aimed at ensuring their sustainability and growth. Whether you're a venue operator, musician, industry professional, or music enthusiast, this discussion offers invaluable insights into preserving the heartbeat of live music.

WEDGEWOOD - SPEAKERS

  • Cath Hurley

    Cath Hurley

    Head of Talent Development, Future Yard
    Panel: Preserving the Pulse of Live Music

    Read Bio

  • Caroline James

    General Manager, Utilita Arena
    Panel: Preserving the Pulse of Live Music

    Read Bio

  • Ross Lewis

    Production Manager, The Cluny
    Panel: Preserving the Pulse of Live Music

    Read Bio
  • Shakk Hashemi

    Shakk Hashemi

    Presenter, BBC Introducing North East
    Panel: BBC Introducing Listening Panel

    READ BIO

  • Steven Braines

    HE. SHE. THEY
    Panel: HE. SHE. THEY.

    Read Bio

  • Chris Sherrington

    Policy & Strategy Support, Music Venue Trust
    Panel: Preserving the Pulse of Live Music

    Read Bio

  • Maia Beth

    Presenter, BBC Radio 1
    Panel: BBC Introducing Listening Panel

    READ BIO

  • Scott Lewis

    Label Manager, EMI North
    Panel: BBC Introducing Listening Panel

    Read Bio

  • Ben Wynter

    Director of Business Development & Partnerships, Association of Independent Music
    Panel: Things Can Only Get Better

    Read Bio

  • Leila d'Aronville

    Northern Roots
    Panel: Things Can Only Get Better?

    Read Bio

  • Kay Greysen

    Artist
    Panel: Things Can Only Get Better?

    Read Bio

  • Nadedja Leal

    Artist
    Panel: Things Can Only Get Better?

    Read Bio

  • Geoff Kirkwood

    Director, Are You Affiliated  
    Panel: Preserving the Pulse of the Live Sector

    Read Bio

REGENCY

13:00-13:45

REIMAGINING MUSIC JOURNALISM

  • Cameron Poole (DIGITAL REPORTER, NEWSQUEST & SENIOR WRTIER, 1883 MAGAZINE)
    Camilla Whitfield     (MARKETING COORDINATOR, GENERATOR & FREELANCE JOURNALIST)
    Claire Dupree     (EDITOR, NARC)
    Nick Reilly     (CONTENT EDITIOR, ROLLING STONE) 

  • Focused on breaking into the music industry, this panel will feature experts who will share their biggest highlights, learning curves, and practical advice. Discover effective strategies for leveraging social media and other tools to advance your career.

    The session will conclude with a Q&A, offering artists and budding writers the chance to get personalised insights and answers to their questions.

14:00-14:30

MARKETING YOURSELF AMONGST THE NOISE

  • Alice Bannister (OPERATIONS MANAGER, KYCKER)
    Jennifer Geddes     (COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, UK MUSIC)
    Megan Savage     (SENIOR CREATIVE STRATEGIST, TICE)

  • Unlock effective strategies for self-promotion with this panel and Q&A. Industry experts will discuss key tactics for building your brand, reaching your target audience, and leveraging various platforms. 

14:30-15.00

TECH SKILLS FOR THE LIVE SECTOR

  • Emily Bowdon (PROGRAMME COORDINATOR, GENERATOR)
    Chris Durant     (NORTHERN STAGE / NEWCASTLE COLLEGE)
    Jordy Kendall     (FREELANCE SOUND ENGINEER)

  • Do you dream of touring the world and working behind-the-scenes on a lighting or sound desk?

    Offering an insight into the Level 3 skills course in Technical Skills for Live Events created with Newcastle College, and a host of other North East based employers including

    Northern Stage - it’s the perfect opportunity to find out how to get involved in this practical-based free course.

    From working in staple venues in the local area, such as The Cluny to premier music festival, Kendal Calling – attend this panel to learn how you can turn a theatre or music venue into your office.

15:00-15:30

BREAK

HOW TO MAXIMISE YOUR EXPOSURE WITH BBC INTRODUCING

15:30-16.15

  • Shakk Hashemi (BBC INTRODUCING NORTH EAST)
    Maia Beth     (BBC RADIO 1)
    Kelly Betts     (BBC MUSIC INTRODUCING)

  • Learn how to effectively use BBC Introducing to boost your music career. The BBC Introducing team will share strategies for gaining exposure, navigating the platform, and making the most of its opportunities.

16:30-17.15

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

  • Bernii Mac (FOUNDER, BECOMING THE ARTIST)
    Grace Meadows     (HEAD OF MUSIC MIND MATTERS)
    Paul Reed     (NORTHERN DIRECTOR, THE MUSICIAN’S UNION)
    Joe Hastings     (CEO, MUSIC SUPPORT UK)

  • Addressing mental health and wellbeing is crucial in the music industry. This panel will delve into the unique challenges faced by music professionals and share strategies for maintaining good mental health. Experts will answer questions and provide insights into managing stress and accessing support resources.

WEDGEWOOD - SPEAKERS

  • Cameron Poole

    Digital Reporter, Newsquest & Senior Writer, 1883 Magazine
    Panel: Reimagining the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Camilla Whitfield

    Marketing Coordinator, Generator & Freelance Journalist
    Panel: Reimagining the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Claire Dupree

    Editor, NARC
    Panel: Reimagining the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Alice Bannister

    Operations Manager, Kycker
    Panel: Marketing Yourself Amongst the Noise

    Read Bio

  • Jennifer Geddes

    Communications Consultant
    Panel: Marketing Yourself Amongst the Noise

    Read Bio

  • Megan Savage

    SENIOR CREATIVE STRATEGIST, TICE & FREELANCE CONTENT CREATOR
    Panel: Marketing Yourself Amongst the Noise

    Read Bio

  • Emily Bowden

    Programme Coordinator, Generator
    Panel: Tech Skills for the Live Sector

    Read Bio

  • Chris Durant

    Northern Stage / Newcastle College
    Panel: Tech Skills for the Live Sector

    Read Bio

  • Jordy Kendal

    Freelance Sound Engineer
    Panel: Tech Skills for the Live Sector

    Read Bio

  • Shakk Hashemi

    Presenter, BBC Introducing North East
    Panel: How to Maximise Your Exposure with BBC Introducing

    Read Bio

  • Maia Beth

    Presenter, Radio 1
    Panel: How to Maximise Your Exposure with BBC Introducing

    Read Bio

  • Kelly Betts

    Editor, BBC Introducing
    Panel: How to Maximise Your Exposure with BBC Introducing

    Read Bio

  • Nick Reilly

    Content Editor, Rolling Stone
    Panel: Reimagining Music Journalism

    Read Bio

  • Bernii Mac

    Founder, Becoming the Artist
    Panel: Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Grace Meadows

    Head of Music Minds Matter
    Panel: Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Paul Reed

    North of England Regional Organiser, The Musician's Union
    Panel: Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Music Industry

    Read Bio

  • Joe Hastings

    CEO, Music Support UK
    Panel: Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Music Industry