Unlocking Financial Success as a Musician: Insights from the Music Futures Panel 2023

Music Futures 2023, Point Blank’s highly anticipated annual networking and careers event, took place at London’s renowned Fabric on Thursday, April 20th. The event provided an exceptional platform for past, present, and potential students to connect with established professionals in the music industry. Leading the panel discussion was award-winning DJ and radio host Rosie Riot, who was joined by Molly Johnson from Sentric Music, DJ and producer Samantha Togni, founder of Boudica, and Graham Jackson from The Musicians Union. The panelists delved into various topics, including the benefits of joining a music union, diversifying revenue streams, music publishing, and the significance of authenticity in networking.

Graham Jackson, representing The Musicians Union, outlined the Union’s vital work in representing 33,000 musicians across diverse sectors in the UK, including recording, broadcasting, live music, and theater. Jackson highlighted the Union’s comprehensive insurance package and the provision of legal advice and support on copyright disputes, contract issues, and employment matters.

Point Blank Music School is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the multifaceted music industry. Events like Music Futures offer students regular opportunities to connect with industry professionals. The school’s degree courses provide comprehensive education in all aspects of music, preparing students for real-world scenarios.

Samantha Togni, a DJ, producer, and founder of Boudica, shared her journey in creating a platform for gender minorities in music. She emphasized the importance of recognizing personal strengths and proactively reaching out to potential collaborators. Togni’s insights highlighted the need for musicians to diversify their efforts, as Boudica expands beyond events to include workshops, talks, and even a music conference.

Molly Johnson from Centric Music delved into the intricate world of music publishing. Centric represents approximately 400,000 songwriters worldwide and manages around three million copyrights. Johnson discussed the work of their sync team, which pitches music for in-store playlists, television shows, and advertisements, significantly boosting artists’ visibility.

The panel discussion shed light on the multifaceted nature of the music industry, emphasizing the importance for musicians to embrace multiple roles, engage in proactive networking, and maintain their authentic passion for music. With various avenues available, such as teaching, live performances, and collaborations, musicians today have ample opportunities to forge a successful and fulfilling career.