The Live Music Industry Podcast Episode 17 | Rami Haykal-Manning - Founder & COO Elsewhere – Raising 3.5M and building one of Brooklyn’s most important clubs
In this episode, we dive into the journey of PopGun Presents and the iconic Brooklyn venue Elsewhere, with founder Rami. From his early days as an agent to becoming a cornerstone in NYC’s live music scene, Rami shares insights into building a thriving venue in a competitive market. We explore the hustle behind booking in NYC, the impressive $3.5M raise for Elsewhere’s launch, and the successes and challenges. Rami also shares his perspective on the future of music venues amidst rising costs and industry consolidation. A must-listen for anyone curious about the business and soul of NYC’s music scene!
(00:17) - Introduction, Origin Story of PopGun Presents and Elsewhere
(04:46) - Transitioning from Being an agent to focusing on putting on events
(08:40) - The Hustle to keep a venue booked, intricacies of booking in NYC
(11:35) - The founding of Elsewhere, one of the most incredible venues in Brooklyn, and Rami’s process in raising 3.5m to get the job done
(23:55) - Successes and challenges of Elsewhere’s first year, scaling to a staff of hundreds, and booking over 600 shows a year
(27:25) - Evolving beyond day to day talent buyer, to creating strategy for a team, and keeping Elsewhere booked
(46:43) - Hot Questions: how elections affect the scene, the future of elsewhere, Rami’s soul searching and personal aspirations for the future, music venues in NYC and raising costs, the battle between staying independent and fending off consolidation, the future growth of the worldwide touring industry
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Opening Music - Papooz - The Garde
Elsewhere - https://www.elsewhere.club/