Promoter 101 # 201 - AEG Presents SVP Global Touring Debra Rathwell Live From IEBA
Nov 8, 2019
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Debra Rathwell, AEG Presents SVP Global Touring, gives insights on the music industry, including a transition from territorial to global promoting. The importance of recognizing when to pass on opportunities in the industry is discussed, along with the grounding effects of running. Merchandise and charity event promotion are highlighted, urging listeners to donate to Music Cares. A special episode preview is also teased.
Deborah Rathwell's journey from an executive assistant to a top global promoter is a testament to the importance of perseverance and viewing rejection as a not-yet.
Carrie Underwood's transformation from an American Idol contestant to a superstar showcases the power of talent, self-assurance, and incredible stage presence.
Nickelodeon's collaboration with Jojo Siwa, leveraging YouTube and branding, highlights the potential for massive arena tours targeted towards young audiences.
Deep dives
From Small Town to Global Promoter
Deborah Rathwell shares her journey from growing up in a small town to becoming a top global promoter. She started her career as an executive assistant and concert manager, eventually opening her own office with AEG Presents. Her first major shows included Billy Joel and Elton John, and she also took on unconventional projects like American Idol and Dancing with the Stars. She discusses her strong work ethic and the importance of perseverance, never taking no for an answer, but viewing it as a not-yet. Additionally, Rathwell shares her passion for running and reading, particularly historical books.
Working with Iconic Artists
Deborah Rathwell recounts her experiences working with iconic artists like Carrie Underwood and Jojo Siwa. She describes how Carrie Underwood transitioned from being known as the girl from American Idol to becoming a superstar in her own right. Rathwell praises Underwood's talent, self-assurance, and incredible stage presence. She also reflects on the success of Jojo Siwa, who gained a massive following through YouTube and Nickelodeon. Rathwell credits Adam Weiser, a colleague, for recognizing the demand for Jojo Siwa bows and making the connection that led to their collaboration.
The Journey of Nickelodeon Kid Stuff
Deborah Rathwell shares the journey of bringing Nickelodeon kid-focused shows to massive arena tours. She mentions Cheetah Girls and Hannah Montana as hugely successful ventures that drew attention and excitement from young fans. Rathwell recounts the challenges they faced with the high demand and the subsequent backlash from some attendees feeling they didn't receive enough tickets. However, she praises the success of the branding exercise and its ability to captivate young audiences. She also highlights Jojo Siwa's ongoing success as a prime example of how YouTube and Nickelodeon branding can translate into massive arena tours.
Early Lessons from Donald
In the early days of her career, the speaker had the opportunity to work closely with Donald, one of the greatest concert promoters in the world. For six months, she sat beside him, learning the ropes and gaining invaluable knowledge on concert promotion. Donald taught her to make better deals and understand different markets, helping her up her game in the industry. These early lessons were crucial in shaping her career as a concert promoter.
The Importance of Humor and Knowing When to Pass
The speaker emphasizes the importance of humor in the music industry, particularly in dealing with challenging and unpredictable situations. She shares various anecdotes, such as dealing with muddy concerts, rioting fans, and bluffing agents, with a lighthearted perspective. Additionally, she highlights the significance of knowing when to pass on a deal or opportunity that may not be worth pursuing, emphasizing the need to cut losses and make smart decisions in a fast-paced industry.
Now on The Promoter 101 Podcast we share are final interview featuring AEG Presents SVP Global Touring Debra Rathwell Recorded Live From IEBA Keynote Session in Nashville
The Final War Story with Special Guest Tom Ross
Hosted By: Emporium Presents' Dan Steinberg + Works Entertainments' Luke Pierce