MBW and our sister print publication, Music Business UK, are proud supporters of a new podcast series, Did Ya Know?, aimed at telling the often unheard stories of key figures in the British music industry, and focusing initially on pioneering executives of color.
The team behind the new pod includes Stellar Songs co-founder Danny D and Decisive Management founder Adrian Sykes. They plan to spin-off a mentoring program from the podcast, utilizing the experiences and talents of the featured guests to inspire a new generation of music industry leaders.
Every month, Did Ya Know? will feature discussions with and between industry leaders of color, aiming not just to tell their stories but to inspire and guide a new generation of executives – and to increase diversity at all levels of the UK music business.
It will launch later this month with an in-depth discussion between Sykes and Island Records President & CEO, Darcus Beese.
“We’re excited to shine a light on the executives that have forged a path through our business whilst all the time facing the particular challenges that are thrown their way, sometimes on a daily basis.”
Danny D
The podcast will be hosted on the MBW site, and be available via Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other platforms. Once a quarter, a selected episode will also appear as a print feature in Music Business UK.
Danny D said: “We’re excited to shine a light on the executives that have forged a path through our business whilst all the time facing the particular challenges that are thrown their way, sometimes on a daily basis.
“This is a unique opportunity to hear them tell their stories, in their words, and address the most pressing issues that we are now looking at confronting head on.”
“Did Ya Know will look to challenge and help break down the barriers and attitudes that have stifled the success of executives of color through conversation, whilst looking to build strong structures for the next generation.”
Adrian Sykes
Sykes added: “This monthly podcast will allow us the opportunity to share the stories that we hope will inspire the next generation of executives, whilst also shining a light on the unsung heroes that we don’t get to hear from, and who may not get the credit they deserve, but are important players in the business.
“In addition, our unique mentoring program will also allow a selected band of young hopefuls to interact directly with the Did Ya Know? interviewees — giving them access to an unparalleled support system from these high profile executives.
“Did Ya Know will look to challenge and help break down the barriers and attitudes that have stifled the success of executives of color through conversation, whilst looking to build strong structures for the next generation.”
MBW’s founder Tim Ingham commented: “When Adrian and Danny came to MBW with this idea we of course jumped at the chance. With their mutual connections, deep expertise and sincere appreciation of their interviewees, Did Ya Know promises to be a must-listen for anyone serious about the modern music business.”Music Business Worldwide
