Tell us about your involvement in the 2014 Australasian Worldwide Music Expo.
This is the third time I’ve attended AWME and the first time I’m showcasing under my own name, so I want to make it special. I’m bringing my seven-piece band Myele Manzanza & The Eclectic to perform featuring some of NZ’s finest musicians, as well as my father Sam Manzanza from the Democratic Republic of Congo. I’ve also been asked to speak on a panel about “being export ready” which I’m looking forward to as well.
AWME endorses business-related concepts of the music industry such as bookings, marketing, distribution, licensing and networking. How important have these concepts been in the development of your career as a musician?
The business side of things is highly important. It goes hand-in-hand with the artistic side. Often as musicians, the business side isn’t second-nature and it can take time to develop those instincts. As I pursue my solo career I’m beginning to gain a better understanding of what it takes to get your music heard.
How do you hope to benefit from the 2014 AWME in regards to your career in the music industry?
AWME has proven itself to be a great international platform for antipodean artists to step out onto the world stage. In gaining my showcase slot, I hope to grow my current relationships with the Australian and international delegates I’ve worked with in the past, foster new relationships with artists and industry folk, and take the opportunity to put on a great show for what has consistently been an amazing, attentive Melbourne crowd.
What’s your number one unmissable AWME event this year?
My set. If I miss it, I’m screwed [laughs]. Other than that, I’m looking forward to seeing Hiatus Kaiyote for the first time. I got to meet and hang with them (minus Clever Austin) when we performed with Miguel Atwood-Ferguson last year in Sydney and Melbourne, but I can’t wait to see them in full force with their home crowd.
Give three reasons as to why you believe the AWME is a vital occasion for the national and international music industry.
1) Career networking opportunities.
2) Informative guests and panel discussions.
3) Great live music.
MYELE MANZANA & THE ECLECTIC will perform as part of AWME on Saturday November 15 at The Hi-Fi.
