Brian Currin
Brian Currin was born 4 days after "The Day The Music Died" (according to Don McLean). He is a self-employed online marketing specialist and music researcher.
In 1997 he was involved in the rediscovery of the world's biggest cult musician, Rodriguez. Currin has a deep love for South Africa and its music and was co-founder of the influential SA Rock Digest in 1999 with Stephen Segerman.
Over the years, he has helped many South African musicians and music-related businesses establish a presence on the internet. He is a strong believer in web standards compliance and search engine optimization.
His current musical projects include Rhythm Online, Sugar Music, SAMP3.com, African Vibes, Find SA Music, Vagabond Music and Solid Gold Music.
"Online Marketing is about doing more of the right things, more often" -- Brian Currin
MUSIC EXCHANGE Q&A
The benefits that may be gained by attending Music Exchange.
QUESTIONS:
1) Which internationally acclaimed bands have you worked with?
Rodriguez, Deep Purple
2) In what capacity did you work with these bands?
Helping to find Rodriguez, online marketing for Rodriguez, contributing editor for The Highway Star, Deep Purple's website.
3) Regarding your work in the music industry, what is the biggest mistake you have ever made and what did you learn from it?
Thinking that all people who work in the music industry have a passion for music like I do. This is clearly not true. I've learnt to align myself with people and businesses who share my passion.
4) Of which achievement are you most proud?
Helping find Rodriguez. Through my search for Rodriguez I met Stephen Segerman and we started the SA Rock Digest together in 1999. This has involved into the various online businesses that are now my prime income sources.
5) In a nutshell, what are the primary requirements needed by a young band who want to enjoy a successful music career?
Passion and Perseverance ...
6) Who is your favourite SA band at the moment and why?
Jack Hammer ... 25 years of rocking down the highway and still going strong.
And there are a slew of very good new, young bands that deserve to be rewarded for their passion and talent.
7) In your opinion, what is the significance of something like Music Exchange to the South African music industry?
A place to share ideas and opinions, and find new ways of doing things in these times of turmoil.
Music isn't in any trouble, but the industry definitely is.
8) Overall, what needs to happen to the South African music industry in order for it to make more inroads into the international market?
Marketing, marketing, marketing
9) Which specific area of the music industry will you be discussing at Music Exchange and what benefits do you expect to be gained by your audience?
Online marketing and digital downloads. The audience will benefit by understanding the power of the internet better as a marketing and sales tool.