‘Breaking Artists’ series offers inspiration

NATD brings in panel of experts with straight talk

By Preshias Harris

Being ‘good’ is not good enough. Aspiring artists heard that sobering statement from the platform as they met with members of Nashville’s music community at an NATD seminar on Tuesday, July 06.

The event was part of the NATD Speaker Series on the subject of ‘Breaking Artists.’ The series, presented by the National Association of Talent Directors (NATD) focuses on the various pathways available to artists in the country music space, both signed and independent.

The meeting was preceded by a pop-up two-song showcase by Avenue Beat. See note, below.

There were words of encouragement as well as some home truths from members of the panel about the do’s and don’ts of developing a successful career in music.

The featured speakers were:

  • Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President of Music Strategy and Talent, Country Music Television (CMT)
  • Phil Guerini, Vice President Music Strategy, Disney Channels Worldwide, and General Manager, Radio Disney Networks
  • Jordan Pettit, Director of Artist Relations and Programming Strategy, Grand Ole Opry

The event was moderated by Todd Cassetty of Cassetty Entertainment.

Artists “must be ready”

It was apparent that all three organizations represented by the panelists make a point of recognizing and developing new talent.  But they all agreed that, too often, emerging artists come to them before they are ready. Continue reading “‘Breaking Artists’ series offers inspiration”