Can you tell us a little about ASR Promotions and how it all began?

My promotions company focuses on live music events, primarily in the indie, alt-rock, and hard rock genres, though we are open to other styles. We provide a platform for smaller, up-and-coming acts to perform in intimate venues with a capacity of 60 to 80. The company began out of my passion for live music while attending BIMM University, where I initially helped a friend secure a gig. After only The Exchange responded to my outreach, I was inspired to create a platform for artists facing similar challenges. Now, I work closely with local venues and artists to deliver high-quality shows.

What inspired you to focus on grassroots gigs, and how would you describe Bristol as a place for upcoming acts at the moment?

Bristol is an excellent city for upcoming acts due to its diverse venues that support grassroots shows, allowing new talent to connect with local audiences.

How important are grassroots venues and gigs for emerging artists?

Gigs are crucial for young acts to refine their craft and develop their stage presence, as they provide invaluable experience in connecting with audiences.

When it comes to booking acts for your gigs, what catches your eye? Any tips for new bands looking to get noticed by promoters?

When booking an act, the most important factor for me is whether I genuinely like their style. If their music resonates with me, I know they can bring something special to the stage, which is essential for a memorable show.

For new bands looking to book their first show, what’s the best way to prepare?

For artists seeking gigs, I recommend being proactive about your availability, considering last-minute opportunities, and networking at events to connect with promoters in person, as messages on social media can often get overlooked.

What’s been your most memorable show so far, and what made it stand out?

I find it difficult to pick just one memorable show. Highlights include our first event at The Exchange Main Room, the inaugural Mr. Wolfs show, and a recent successful last-minute gig at The Louisiana. The key takeaway is the joy of bringing a large crowd and seeing the bands enjoy their time on stage, enhancing the overall experience.

What is the biggest challenge for acts right now?

The role of A&R scouts has evolved significantly. In the past, they attended shows in person to discover new talent, but the shift to online platforms has made it less straightforward for artists seeking their big break, especially those unfamiliar with current industry trends.

What is the biggest challenge for promoters/organisers right now?

Rising venue costs and artist compensation pose significant challenges for promoters. Increased prices due to inflation make it difficult for small-budget promoters to pay artists adequately, often leaving both parties dissatisfied.

How important is a local music community to a national music scene/industry? What role does ASR Promotions play within that?

Local communities contribute essential elements—economic impact, talent development, and identity—to the national music scene. These aspects are vital for a thriving industry but are often overshadowed by larger stadium and festival shows. Our role supports artists during their early performances, fostering growth and learning.

What exciting plans do you have for ASR Promotions in the coming months?

For ASR, we plan to organise a show outside of Bristol this year or early next year and aim to book larger venues at least once or twice a month to push our limits.