Tag: MTV

Music Industry Job Board (4/27/15)

Post author By James Shotwell
Post date April 27, 2015

A lot has been written about the supposed dire state of the music industry, but truth be told there are a number of successful and growing companies, including record labels, that are thriving in 2014. In this column we bring together every job opening we can find from the companies responsible for building the future of the business and present them to you, our reader, in hopes of aiding you on your journey to join the global music industry professional family.

Each Sunday – and sometimes on Monday if things get crazy – we scour the internet for the latest and greatest job postings throughout the music industry. You can help us better serve our community by sending any job openings you find or have to james@haulix.com. Be sure to include the name of the company hiring, a detailed description of the position being offered, a desired start date, contact information, and any additional supplemental information you feel may be needed.

New openings:

Associate Director, E-Commerce and New Media (Boston Symphony – Boston)

Job summary: Join the Boston Symphony, in a dynamic position as the Associate Director, E-Commerce and New Media that encompasses the management, implementation and creation of all internet and New Media platforms. You will be responsible for supporting the overall marketing strategy by utilizing a variety of online and media platforms to enhance the corporate brand, explore new initiatives and enhance revenue content opportunities. To be successful, you will need to be a creative self-starter who can analyze and adapt new technologies and strategies to support the overall organizational goals.

Assistant, Urban Digital Marketing (Warner Music Group – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Key administrative support person for day-to-day digital marketing in the Digital Media & eCommerce department, focused primarily (but not exclusively) on our broad “urban” roster of artists, covering rap, hip hop, R&B, and beyond. Experience in community development, editorial/content and marketing support. The ideal candidate is interested in the intersection between consumer online behavior, music and technology. This person reads blogs (tech / entertainment / lifestyle), installs every new app just to try it out, and has a passion for leveraging the Internet to drive artist careers and revenue. They live on social media, lifestyle blogs, and discover new music in interesting ways.

Marketing Specialist (Sound Productions – Dallas, TX)

Job summary: We are hiring a person, not a position, for the Sound Productions marketing team. We believe in providing every tool and opportunity to our team members and growing them for success. We don’t have employees, only team members, and are very proud of that. We invest in each of our highly effective and talented team members for their professional growth and aligned goals with the other Sound Pro teams.

Mobile Devices Engineer – Music Industry (Confidential – WA)

Job summary: Our Seattle, WA-based client produces pro-audio and music products with brands known worldwide! The company is currently expanding their product lines, incorporating mobile devices and cross-platform UI applications within specific digital products. If you love music (or the technology around making music) and have experience building mobile apps (iOS/Android) you will love joining their engineering team.

Director, Digital Monetization (iHeartMedia – NYC)

Job summary: While iHeartMedia employs over 20 thousand worldwide, the iHeartRadio Division based in New York City runs more like a startup. We are looking for a Director of Digital Monetization to serve as the key touch point between our digital product and national sales teams. This role will be instrumental in identifying digital revenue opportunities and developing our go-to-market strategies. You will work with a variety of key teams including editorial, programming, operations, sales and marketing groups and have the opportunity to meaningfully impact the revenue line of a growing organization.

Vice President, Consumer Marketing (MTV – NYC)

Job summary: The VP of Consumer Marketing is responsible for planning and implementing off-channel marketing campaigns for MTV. With a key focus on innovation in the marketing space, this position will manage the development of campaigns in support of all priority programming and events. The ideal candidate will actively employ data to inform the planning process, and to ensure that all plans have clear goals, and the creative approach needed to achieve them.

Director of Sales, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship (LiveNation – LA)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Marketing and Event Coordinator (Beacher’s Madhouse – LA)

Job summary: The Marketing Coordinator will be accountable for leading the development of the venue’s event and marketing program that includes new innovative ideas, talent recommendations, marketing partnerships, promotional activities, advertising recommendations, and VIP Host, social media and public relations coordination. This position will also execute the events and programs on-site. In addition, the Marketing Coordinator will be very creative and will find ways to increase customer spend and find new sources of business. The Marketing Coordinator will be responsible for the over-site of the venue’s brand, including market position against competitors.

Interactive Marketing Manager (Warner Bros – LA)

Job summary: The Interactive Marketing Manager will be the main digital strategist for their own roster of artists and/or projects. They will craft and execute the digital campaign for those artists spanning promotion, social strategy, community engagement, e-commerce, and partnership opportunities with inter-departmental (marketing, radio, press, product development, etc..) input and coordination. They will continually look for new opportunities, services and platforms with which to partner and/or utilize. In addition to their work directly with artists, they will have a loud voice in forming overall departmental strategy and direction as operational digital specialists. Every campaign will come with mutually agreed upon goals and targets that the marketer will striving to achieve.

Publicist (New York Public Radio – NYC)

Job summary: New York Public Radio seeks a publicist who will work with the Senior Director of Publicity to develop and execute PR strategies and campaigns to reach consumer, trade and online audiences.

Senior Director/ Vice President Product Manager of Records (SONG Music Publishing – NYC)

Job summary: To direct marketing focus & strategy, product development, label identity and artist relations for assigned RECORDS projects. The product manager will work side by side with the Co-founder- assisting with the execution of marketing strategies and artist development. The ideal candidate has an entrepreneurial outlook and will able to work creative and operational executives across all functions.

Partnerships Manager (Shazam – NYC)

Job summary: To thrive in this role, you will love variety, work independently, communicate well and be super organised. Experience of working with digital media within an entertainment, broadcasting or publishing sphere is essential. The right candidate will have ability to oversee complex deals with and have the ability to negotiate and execute new business within a range of exciting new sectors.

Director Of Public Relations (Vevo – NYC)

Job summary: Reporting to the VP of Marketing, the Director of Public Relations will manage all corporate communications and messaging for Vevo. You will serve as the primary point of contact between the company, its executives and the press community for all Industry and Consumer press.

Marketing Coordinator (TouchTunes – NYC)

Job summary: This is an exciting marketing role focused on executing tactics to drive success for the TouchTunes sales team and B2B channel customers. You will work across business groups and leverage multiple marketing channels to drive engagement with the TouchTunes network of smart jukeboxes, mobile app, and other in-venue solutions.

Account Director – AD SALES (Complex – NYC)

Job summary: Complex Media is looking for a motivated and successful Account Director to join our leading young men’s platform. You will be a part of a top-notch sales team, selling integrated marketing programs across desktop, mobile, video, branded content and print. We have an entrepreneurial culture where you can lead the sales and marketing efforts for your client list. This role is based in our NYC mid-town headquarters.

Digital Media Buyer (Live Nation – Los Angeles)

Job summary: The role of the Digital Media Buyer is a day-to-day focal point and is tasked with executing digital media planning/buying and client service activities associated with assigned accounts. You will be integral in the development and management of effective digital strategy and media buying/. This role will report to the SVP of Digital Marketing.

Digital Account Manager (Universal Music Group – Sydney, AUS)

Job summary: We have a new opportunity available for a Digital Account Manager to drive growth in market share, revenue and artist exposure across digital music platforms. Reporting to the Director of Digital Strategy, the successful candidate will develop sales and marketing strategy and create opportunities to further enhance Universal’s presence across these services.

Director of Sponsorship Sales (Live Nation – Phoenix)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Licensing Marketing Manager (ASCAP – Nashville)

Job summary: The Licensing Marketing Manager will be responsible for developing plans and executing projects that support the Sales & Marketing strategy surrounding ASCAP’s Licensing team responsible for licensing the musical works of ASCAP’s members to hundreds of thousands of businesses – from traditional media to venues to online services. This includes day-to-day management of marketing and analytics for ASCAP’s Licensing pipeline from new leads to completed licenses. The Manager will collaborate with the Licensing, Product, Marketing and Website teams to execute marketing/communications, increase conversions, launch new initiatives, and track analytics, as well as facilitate an effective workflow between the Marketing Department and all other cross-functional teams.

Creative Director (EventBrite – San Francisco)

Job summary: As our Creative Director you will: drive brand guidelines and standards, help us nail compelling online assets, raise our game on marketing site designs, consumer-facing content experiences, and asset for online ads, grab our customer’s attention through awesome email templates and compelling sales collateral, all while leading our team of ridiculously talented Communication Designers.

Project Manager (Nite Owl Productions – NYC)

Job summary: Two New York-based musicians (Michelle Citrin and Galeet Dardashti) seeking Project Manager with a passion for working with artists. Starting date flexible – spring, 2015. $20/hour approximately 9-12 hours a week part time with room to grow. Work in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn based studio, with possibilities for telecommuting.

Digital Marketing Coordinator (Sony Music – NYC)

Job summary: Responsible for community development and campaign execution for a diverse roster of artists. Includes day to day promotional activities, creation and maintenance of artist web and social channels as well as coordination with partners overseeing web development, operations and production.

Marketing Coordinator (Country Music Association – Nashville)

Job summary: The Marketing Coordinator will assist in developing and implementing marketing and advertising ticket sales campaigns and ABC media campaigns for CMA Music Festival, CMA Awards, CMA Country Christmas and Songwriters Series through traditional media outlets as well as online and social networking mediums. Responsible for fulfillment of all advertising and promotional needs. Assist in developing strategic media partnerships and coordinate fulfillment of contracts. Responsible for general department support as needed.

Publicity Manager (Marbaloo Marketing – Nashville)

Job summary: Full-time Publicity Manager is responsible for generating and executing publicity campaigns with online outlets and social media influencers. This includes press release creation, pitching and securing publicity for company’s client roster by generating relevant stories, securing interviews and mixed-media placements while keeping internal staff and clients up to date progress. This position demands high level project management and creativity. Familiarity with online and print media advertising is ideal but not required.

Licensing Marketing Manager (ASCAP – Nashville)

Job summary: The Licensing Marketing Manager will be responsible for developing plans and executing projects that support the Sales & Marketing strategy surrounding ASCAP’s Licensing team responsible for licensing the musical works of ASCAP’s members to hundreds of thousands of businesses — from traditional media to venues to online services. This includes day-to-day management of marketing and analytics for ASCAP’s Licensing pipeline from new leads to completed licenses. The Manager will collaborate with the Licensing, Product, Marketing and Website teams to execute marketing/communications, increase conversions, launch new initiatives, and track analytics, as well as facilitate an effective workflow between the Marketing Department and all other cross-functional teams.

Royalty Participations Manager (Warner Music Group – Nashville)

Job summary: Responsible for all duties related to participations royalties for distributed labels, films, merchandise and managed tours.

Sr. Director, Sales (BMI – Nashville)

Job summary: Manages all aspects of team sales efforts including, universe of prospective customers, existing customers and key accounts. Ensure continuing new business market penetration and preservation/growth of customer base.

Digital Marketing Manager (Ticketmaster – San Francisco)

Job summary: The ideal candidate will work closely with colleagues in Artist Services, partnering with a team of Producers responsible for artist websites and fan clubs. The Digital Marketing Manager will work with Creative, Engineering, Tour Marketing and other internal departments throughout Ticketmaster and Live Nation to execute on the artists’ digital strategy.

Manager, Digital Licensing Development (BMI – New York)

Job summary: This role is responsible for managing initiatives to support business development to drive Digital Licensing sales. This role will give direction to Sales for growing new business through targeted prospect areas. Included in this work is developing and delivering tools for significant business areas; sales lead generation, new licensee prospecting, prospect validation, market and service analysis, and music use memoranda. The role will also include managing others as needed.

Orchestra Operations Manager (The Cleveland Orchestra – Cleveland)

Job summary: The Cleveland Orchestra is currently seeking a dedicated individual with a passion for music to join the Operations team as the new Operations Coordinator. This newly created position supports the Orchestra by coordinating the planning and implementation of concert logistics and assisting Operations Management in researching and planning orchestra needs for tours and runouts. The Coordinator will support concert productions and events at both Severance Hall and Blossom Music Center and assist with tour preparations. He/she will act as a primary liaison between external vendors and internal departments to communicate and secure production needs.

Director, Database Marketing (Sirius XM – Washington DC)

Job summary: The Director, Database Marketing will actively support the Company’s effort to acquire and leverage customer leads in the previously owned vehicle segment. This individual will manage a team of two, including himself/herself. The main focus of the role is to help SiriusXM acquire and evaluate customer names and addresses for new owners of used vehicles with inactive radios with the goal of marketing trial or subscription offers to those subsequent owners. On a monthly basis, SiriusXM acquires millions of leads through various sources: third party list vendors (3PL), service dealers (Service Lane), and others tbd. This group will be responsible for designing and implementing a database marketing strategy that can efficiently evaluate the best leads to activate and market to, based on external and internal data. He/she will report to the SVP, Direct Sales & Marketing.

Business Development/Sales (Jamplify – NYC)

Job summary: As Business Development Associate, you will play a key role in building our sales and marketing engine to support our fast-growing business. You will work side by side with our CMO to support all sales and marketing initiatives and will report directly to the CEO. Through high value communication you will work to establish the credibility of Jamplify and our brand within the live events market. You will make our organization top of mind for customers when they market and book concerts.

Sales Executive (Pandora – Boston)

Job summary: We’re a unique collection of engineers, musicians, designers, marketers, and world-class sellers with a common goal: to enrich lives by delivering effortless personalized music enjoyment and discovery. People—the listeners, the artists, and our employees—are at the center of our mission and everything we do. Actually, employees at Pandora are a lot like the service itself: bright, eclectic, and innovative. Collaboration is the foundation of our workforce, and we’re looking for smart individuals who are self-motivated and passionate to join us. Be a part of the engine that creates the soundtrack to life. Discover your future at Pandora.

Account Representative (Warner Music Group – Nashville)

Job summary: Representative will generate revenue through proactive outbound and inbound calls with established accounts. In addition to making and logging sales they will assist customers with any non-credit needs such as product information and order tracking information when necessary. They will work closely with their credit representative, referring all billing and credit questions to that department. They will also follow up on leads for new accounts, utilizing information lists received from in-house reports and other sources. They will build and enhance relationships with accounts through consistent sales and service.

Music Journalist (Shazam – Los Angeles)

Job summary: You will work with the Music Editor and wider editorial team to deliver world-class news content for Shazam, specifically around headlines and picture selection, helping to deliver a compelling and successful editorial product for the company. A real all-rounder, you’ll be creative with words, images and treatment ideas on the biggest musicians in the world. This is a newly created role.

Inside Sales (ASCAP – Nashville)

Job summary: You will act as liaison between music users and copyright owners. As a Licensing Specialist, you will call on dance schools, restaurants, bars, hotels and other businesses that play music in order to sell performing rights licenses.

Associate Director, Writer/Publisher (Broadcast Music, Inc. – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Recruits and assists prospective writers, publishers, producers and artists to BMI by performing the following duties either personally or through the direction of others.

Coordinator, Merch Production (Warner Music Group – Los Angeles)

Job summary: This position is responsible for assisting the Merch Production department. Admin, data entry, and work flow system support which includes sourcing Merch items online, accessing art files, creating PO’s, tracking production schedule and tracking shipments.

Coordinator, Music Programming & Marketing (PledgeMusic – NYC)

Job summary: We are seeking an individual with expertise, experience and deep passion for music. The person in this role will curate genre pages/channels on the PledgeMusic website and across our other music channels such as: Soundcloud, Spotify & YouTube. They will also be the conduit for determining the content and features for the PledgeMusic weekly newsletters. This individual will support PledgeMusic’s Head of Marketing and should have experience in monitoring social media, running digital marketing campaigns, data analysis and creating strategies for digital campaigns in music and entertainment.

Advertising Coordinator (Sony Music – SOHO)

Job summary: The Coordinator, Advertising will coordinate advertising initiatives for RED/’stache media by developing strategic marketing campaigns that not only drive awareness and sales for RED artists but also bring in additional revenue for ‘stache media.

Sales Associate (TownSquare Media – Lafayette, LA)

Job summary: As a liaison between Market Manager, station Account Executives and advertising clients, the Sales Assistant provides general support to the radio/digital Sales Department including the preparation of recaps, sales reports, creating sales proposals, correspondence, sales pieces, competitive requests, faxing and/or emailing spot times to clients, answering phones, and maintaining contract files.

Director Of Sales (LiveNation – Boston)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Designer (Bandcamp)

Job summary: Bandcamp is seeking a mind-bogglingly talented individual for our design team to help us create new products and features, improve existing ones and make our site and mobile apps shining beacons of wonder for all who gaze upon them. You will design. You will code. You will have a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of artists and their millions of fans each and every day. You will feel good. You will feel as good as I do right now.

Operations Manager (LiveNation – Nashville)

Job summary: Seeking an Operations Manager who is responsible for the day to day and event operations at the newly developed Amphitheater in Nashville, TN. This includes but is not limited to de-winterization and winterization of the facility, managing event staff, reporting and maintaining incident logs, and on-site, day of show operations responsibilities.

Digital Marketing Music Manager (Latium Entertainment)

Job summary: Reporting directly to the COO, the Digital Marketing Manager will be responsible for handling artist digital content management for all artists and the Latium brand.

Social Media Specialist (Crave Online – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Reporting to the Head of Operations, CraveOnline, the Social Media Specialist is responsible for developing clearly-defined social media strategies in a manner that supports the CraveOnline.com brand as well as other CraveOnline Media properties. This position is responsible managing projects across all social media channels to help achieve our overall brand objectives and growth metrics.

Interactive Marketing Manager (Warner Music Group – Los Angeles)

Job summary: The Interactive Marketing team at Warner Bros Records spearheads all digital marketing initiatives for the label’s diverse roster including urban, rock and pop artists. They are responsible for building out the digital, mobile and social components of an artist’s overall marketing plan – including but not limited to: digital promotions, artist website development and optimization, fan acquisition and engagement, creation/implementation of digital tools and products to increase fan engagement, paid media campaigns, etc… Additionally, the team is relied upon to be industry-leading innovators in the digital space, anticipating consumer trends and substantive technological advancements.

Music Librarian (College of the Holy Cross – Worcester, MA)

Job summary: Reporting to the Head of Research & Instruction Services, and serving as a branch manager, the Music Librarian is responsible for all aspects of the operation of the Music Library. This includes circulation, reserves, collection management, cataloging, e-resource management, and bindery in conformity with Holy Cross Libraries policy. It also includes staff and student supervision, team participation and project management, campus liaison work, and participation in professional development.

Content Producer (Universal Music Australia – Sydney)

Job summary: We are looking for a savvy Content Producer with strong video skills to join our growing Community and Content team. Working on digital and social channels of our incredible roster of Artists, the successful candidate will relish the opportunity to utilise their diverse experience in the hands-on production of video, photographic and written content. Reporting to the Community & Content Director, this position also runs the day-to-day management of the Universal Music Australia social channels.

Key Account Manager – Amazon (Warner Music Group – Washington)

Job summary: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc. seeks a Key Account Manager for the Sales department.

Revenue Operations Business Analyst (Pandora – Oakland)

Job summary: Pandora Media is looking for a systems-focused Business Analyst for our Revenue Operations Department. The right individual will be a key contributor to the overall Sales Technical Operations team with a focus on improving our internal sales software and driving aggressive efficiency for end users. End users of the systems include Sales, Client Services, Trafficking and Finance teams. The goal of this position is to support Pandora’s strategic initiatives with a focus on partnering with the Sales and Revenue Operations organizations to understand their priorities and pain points. The role will involve information gathering, business process analysis, system support, training and documentation, and measurement. The Business Analyst will partner cross-functionally with Product, Engineering, Quality Assurance and Enterprise Systems teams to build solutions and measure their impact.

Media Analyst (ASCAP – NYC)

Job summary: The Media Analyst provides the Membership department with statistical analysis and reporting on market share, competitive comparisons and royalty distribution summaries. He or she will maintain and build databases to provide and maintain large amounts of data for analysis and reporting. He or she will utilize Billboard, Mediaguide, Competitrack and other media sources for reporting on current trends within the industry. This ideal candidate will actively seek out data outside of the organization that will enhance relevant analysis and reporting. He or she will work with the Strategic Services department to provide recommendations to enhance or improve current methodology and practice.

Director, Writer/Publisher Relations (BMI – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Recruits and assists prospective writers, publishers, producers and artists to BMI by performing the following duties either personally or through the direction of others.

Senior Copywriter (Sirius XM – NYC)

Job summary: The ideal candidate will have direct experience or deep knowledge of the current entertainment marketplace and must demonstrate exceptional creative writing skills with a strategic marketing emphasis. Working as a creative team member, this person will help elevate the messaging effectiveness and style on all projects while maintaining alignment with the SiriusXM Brand. The Senior Writer will work closely with the creative team to create materials for many departments including Programming, Retail, Direct to Consumer, Automotive, Retention and Corporate. This is a hands on position that will include everything from direct marketing letters to television concept to channel naming to digital communications.

Account Executive (iHeartRadio – Medford, MA)

Job summary: The iHeartMedia Account Executive will identify and solicit new business; service and grow existing account. They are responsible for developing persuasive proposals in response to client needs and/or opportunities. They will guide their clients based on market, platform or station information. They are responsible for ensuring client satisfaction through cooperative communication. They will also negotiate rates consistent with iHeartMedia operating goals and budgets and ensure prompt payment. They will utilize all available iHeartMedia resources to create effective marketing campaigns.

Executive Integrated Producer, Consumer Marketing VH1 (Viacom – NYC)

Job summary: The VH1 Creative Department needs a hybrid, multi-faceted Full Time Freelance Executive Producer who can not only excel in overseeing the development of multi-platform Creative, but serve on the front-line of projects – acting as the face of the Department for all outward facing partners. This includes our “clients”, who are Show Producers but also, serve as accountable and expert ambassadors of our Creative within our own Department.

This role requires deep expertise in the Production and Creative Process including well-honed client-management skills to handle a fast-paced environment where things change in an instant and multiple voices needs to be accounted for.

Director, Partnership Sales- Amgen Tour of California (AEG – Los Angeles)

Job summary: The candidate we select into this key role will have a proven track record in building successful partnerships as well as consistently securing seven-figure investments with FORTUNE 500 organizations. S/he already has an established reputation and track record of success, gained with any combination of major brands, teams or agencies, and is now looking to further enhance their reputation with one of the leading sports and entertainment companies in the world.

Global Social Media Manager (BOSE – Framingham, MA)

Job summary: The Global Social Media Manager will lead the development of the corporation’s social media strategy, and will oversee the execution of plans and tactics around the globe.

Job Board News

Music Industry Job Board (4/19/15)

Post author By James Shotwell
Post date April 19, 2015

Each Sunday we scour the internet for the latest and greatest job postings throughout the music industry. You can help us better serve our community by sending any job openings you find or have to james@haulix.com. Be sure to include the name of the company hiring, a detailed description of the position being offered, a desired start date, contact information, and any additional supplemental information you feel may be needed.

Job openings:

Vice President, Consumer Marketing (MTV – NYC)

Director of Sales, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship (LiveNation – LA)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Marketing and Event Coordinator (Beacher’s Madhouse – LA)

Interactive Marketing Manager (Warner Bros – LA)

Publicist (New York Public Radio – NYC)

Senior Director/ Vice President Product Manager of Records (SONG Music Publishing – NYC)

Partnerships Manager (Shazam – NYC)

Director Of Public Relations (Vevo – NYC)

Marketing Coordinator (TouchTunes – NYC)

Account Director – AD SALES (Complex – NYC)

Digital Media Buyer (Live Nation – Los Angeles)

Digital Account Manager (Universal Music Group – Sydney, AUS)

Director of Sponsorship Sales (Live Nation – Phoenix)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Licensing Marketing Manager (ASCAP – Nashville)

Creative Director (EventBrite – San Francisco)

Project Manager (Nite Owl Productions – NYC)

Digital Marketing Coordinator (Sony Music – NYC)

Marketing Coordinator (Country Music Association – Nashville)

Publicity Manager (Marbaloo Marketing – Nashville)

Licensing Marketing Manager (ASCAP – Nashville)

Job summary: The Licensing Marketing Manager will be responsible for developing plans and executing projects that support the Sales & Marketing strategy surrounding ASCAP’s Licensing team responsible for licensing the musical works of ASCAP’s members to hundreds of thousands of businesses — from traditional media to venues to online services. This includes day-to-day management of marketing and analytics for ASCAP’s Licensing pipeline from new leads to completed licenses. The Manager will collaborate with the Licensing, Product, Marketing and Website teams to execute marketing/communications, increase conversions, launch new initiatives, and track analytics, as well as facilitate an effective workflow between the Marketing Department and all other cross-functional teams.

Royalty Participations Manager (Warner Music Group – Nashville)

Job summary: Responsible for all duties related to participations royalties for distributed labels, films, merchandise and managed tours.

Sr. Director, Sales (BMI – Nashville)

Digital Marketing Manager (Ticketmaster – San Francisco)

Manager, Digital Licensing Development (BMI – New York)

Orchestra Operations Manager (The Cleveland Orchestra – Cleveland)

Director, Database Marketing (Sirius XM – Washington DC)

Business Development/Sales (Jamplify – NYC)

Sales Executive (Pandora – Boston)

Account Representative (Warner Music Group – Nashville)

Music Journalist (Shazam – Los Angeles)

Inside Sales (ASCAP – Nashville)

Associate Director, Writer/Publisher (Broadcast Music, Inc. – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Recruits and assists prospective writers, publishers, producers and artists to BMI by performing the following duties either personally or through the direction of others.

Coordinator, Merch Production (Warner Music Group – Los Angeles)

Coordinator, Music Programming & Marketing (PledgeMusic – NYC)

Advertising Coordinator (Sony Music – SOHO)

Sales Associate (TownSquare Media – Lafayette, LA)

Director Of Sales (LiveNation – Boston)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Designer (Bandcamp)

Operations Manager (LiveNation – Nashville)

Digital Marketing Music Manager (Latium Entertainment)

Job summary: Reporting directly to the COO, the Digital Marketing Manager will be responsible for handling artist digital content management for all artists and the Latium brand.

Social Media Specialist (Crave Online – Los Angeles)

Interactive Marketing Manager (Warner Music Group – Los Angeles)

Music Librarian (College of the Holy Cross – Worcester, MA)

Content Producer (Universal Music Australia – Sydney)

Key Account Manager – Amazon (Warner Music Group – Washington)

Job summary: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc. seeks a Key Account Manager for the Sales department.

Revenue Operations Business Analyst (Pandora – Oakland)

Media Analyst (ASCAP – NYC)

Director, Writer/Publisher Relations (BMI – Los Angeles)

Job summary: Recruits and assists prospective writers, publishers, producers and artists to BMI by performing the following duties either personally or through the direction of others.

Senior Copywriter (Sirius XM – NYC)

Account Executive (iHeartRadio – Medford, MA)

Executive Integrated Producer, Consumer Marketing VH1 (Viacom – NYC)

Director, Partnership Sales- Amgen Tour of California (AEG – Los Angeles)

Global Social Media Manager (BOSE – Framingham, MA)

Job summary: The Global Social Media Manager will lead the development of the corporation’s social media strategy, and will oversee the execution of plans and tactics around the globe.

Director of Sales, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship (Live Nation – Boston)

Job summary: This successful sponsorship sales professional will be responsible for creating and selling branded, high-impact music marketing programs across our music properties.

Coordinator, Ad Sales (Sirius XM- NYC)

Job summary: The Ad Sales Coordinator is a key member of the Ad Sales team, supporting all aspects of the sales process as well as providing general administrative support to the Vice President of Ad Sales and the ad sales team.

Associate Program Manager (Pandora – Oakland)

Job summary: Pandora is looking for an Associate Program Manager to play a critical role in driving and managing concurrent projects related the successful roll out, communication, and commercialization of changes to ad products, system and platform updates and process improvements. This is a highly cross-functional independent contributor role that will report into Sales Technical Operations and combines aspects of project management, product marketing, marketing communications, and training.

Senior Media Planner (87AM – NYC)

Job summary: AM is looking for a senior media planner to run several accounts out of our New York office. This digital client service superstar is adept at anticipating client needs and always maintaining an excellent relationship at all times. This candidate needs to be able to coordinate online media campaign efforts seamlessly with all internal teams (media, accounts, creative, etc.) as well as the client. The senior media planner will also be responsible for assessing client goals and providing them with a clear, effective game plan to achieve them. They will be responsible for developing an intimate knowledge of their clients’ business and ensuring that all aspects of the overall strategy are in place at all times.

Account Manager (Bright Marketing & Events – Florida)

Job summary: Bright Marketing offers outstanding career opportunities in one of the world`s most successful companies in the retail and events sales industry.

News

Blogger Spotlight: Byron Flitsch (MTV Buzzworthy)

Post author By James Shotwell
Post date February 27, 2014

Hello and welcome to the final Blogger Spotlight of the week. We started working on this particular features less than two weeks ago and are excited to see if go from idea to live on the site in such a short time. If you have any questions regarding the content of this blog, or if you would like to learn more about our efforts here at Haulix, please email james@haulix.com and share your thoughts. We can also be found on Twitter and Facebook.

Not long ago I was scrolling through the latest pop music headlines when I noticed a story on MTV’s Buzzworthy blog about Lorde joining Katy Perry and Ellie Goulding at a party. It was the kind of headline many music news snobs might throw shade on, but I could not help clicking to see what New Zealand’s seemingly apathetic songstress could possibly be up to in a club with pop’s dance club queens. The answer, as you can probably guess, was having a good time, like all sixteen-year-old millionaire vocalists do.

What I took away from that post about Lorde and her public attempts at coming out of her shell had nothing to do with the article itself. No, what I learned that afternoon was that someone at MTV could kick my ass as a writer. Someone on their contributing team is so gifted with wordplay that they can take something as dull and self-explanatory as a few late night photos of celebrities and create a blog post worth reading.

I knew immediately that we need to feature the author of that post on this blog, but before I reached out to Byron Flitsch I spent time getting to know more about him and his work. He writes about pop culture, yes, but he and his abilities extend much further than whatever is hot at radio right now. Byron is a mountain mover. He faces whatever challenges life throws his ways and conquers them, then figures out ways to do more for everyone around him. He’s as funny as he is smart, and as kind as he is talented. We’re thrilled to have him on the blog, and will waste no more time to getting to our interview.

If you would like to know more about Byron and his efforts in writing, please be sure to stop by his personal website and follow him on Twitter. You also need to read MTV Buzzworthy. Additional questions and comments can be left at the end of this post.

H: To get us started, please tell everyone your name, job title, and a few of the places your work can be found:

B: Byron Flitsch, Freelance Contributor at MTV Buzzworthy/Freelance Writer/ Teacher/Traveler/Story-teller/

You can find me at http://buzzworthy.mtv.com/author/byronflitsch/ and my official clips/blog/fun stuff at www.byronflitsch.com.

H: Thank you again for taking the time to speak with us, Byron. We are big fans of your work. Tell me, has music always played a very influential role in your life?

B: Thanks for being a fan. Does that mean I can start an official fan nickname? You know, Rihanna has her “Army” and Beyoncé has her Bey Hive. I’m going to work on this… I’m thinking “Byron’s Boos” What do ya think?

It’s funny, I was just having a conversation with a friend the other day about what my true passion is and aside from pop culture, dogs, and “Felicty” reruns. I’ve really always loved music – especially pop music .

Truth time: I used to write poetry back in the day (no really, I have like, seventeen-bazillion journals) and thought I’d write lyrics for a living. Music has always played a role in my life. It’s good for stirring emotions when you’re working on a story; it’s great to sing a long to when you’re trekking on road trips. Good music is essential to happiness and creativity.

H: When you look back at your younger years, are you able to pinpoint in formative moments or experiences that steered you toward the career you have today?

B: I wrote a story on my dad’s archaic work lap top about two dinosaurs falling in love when I was about eight. I remember reading it to my family and both my parents being like, “That’s funny! You’re good at writing. You should do more!” I remember thinking it was fun making things up and telling my own versions. I could lie and be applauded for it—GAME ON!

I also was the editor of my school newspaper and yearbook. I remember loving having stories to tell—whether it was about how bad the school lunches were for you or the senior section in the yearbook—I liked sharing words on the page.

H: Who is the first artist you can remember obsessing over? How did you discover them? Go on, tell us a little about your earliest ‘fanboy moments.’

B: My first cassette tape I ever bought was Debbie Gibson and I remember memorizing every word, choreographing dances to it and pretty much being obsessed with it all. Speaking of creating choreographed dances, I also nailed routines to Janet Jackson, Madonna, and Whitney Houston.

I became obsessed with Alanis Morissette as I got older. I know every single word from “Jagged Little Pill” – Go ahead, test me!

Fine. I’ll admit it! Things are about to get real here: Jewel. I WAS ALSO OBSESSED WITH JEWEL.

H: You’re from Wisconsin initially, but like many in this area of the business have since transplanted to larger cities (first Chicago, now LA). Do you ever see yourself returning to small town life, or do you think you’ve become a lifelong city dweller?

B: Nope! No small town for me ever again. It’s not that I don’t miss some aspects of my Wisconsin upbringing (Shout out to my 4-H loves!), but I’m a big city guy now. I love the variety, restaurants, culture, and the energy that the random nooks and neighborhoods that cities offer. Maybe it has to do with my love for travel and exploration, but the bigger the city, the more I feel connected to the place.

H: You attended Columbia College and had a double major. One of those was Fiction Writing. Did young Byron picture himself penning the next great American novel?

B: I don’t think I ever pictured creating the next “Big American Novel”. OK, that’s a total lie. Well, maybe not such much an epic Hemmingway style, but like, a best seller so I could be a guest on “The Tonight Show” and talk about being a cool writer while wearing stellar fashions while I get interviewed.

I also did have a love for R.L. Stine and the Boxcar Children collection while growing up and always thought it would be awesome to inspire younger people to read.

H: Let’s dive into your experience. What was your first ‘gig’ in the world of writing? Unpaid work counts.

B: My first gig was as editor for a literary magazine, NOTA, at the first college I attended (I transferred three times!) in Eau Claire , WI. Some of my fondest memories are reading piles of submissions and then to the wee hours of the morning with my fellow editors. Oh, and we used to sponsor monthly open mics and I used to perform in them.

I repeat: I used to run poetry readings in college. On Fridays. I used to spend Friday nights doing reading poetry I had written. I was that guy.

My first journalistic/freelance gig was with a Chicago (now defunct) magazine, UR Chicago. I wrote a “single-guy-dating-in-the-city” style column that was first-person narrative of my life. It brought story telling and a journalistic-like approach to a gay person’s dating life. I got paid absolutely nothing to do it but still loved every single moment of writing it.

H: How did your first writing internship/job outside school come together?

B: I never had an official full-time writing job that wasn’t freelance, however, I did have A LOT OF FREAKING JOBS before I got the gigs I have now. Once I counted that I’ve had like, forty jobs since I was sixteen. That ranges from working in a movie store, shooting pictures of babies and families in a mall photography studio, waiter at a martini bar, wedding photographer, clothes folder, commercial actor, nanny, bartender, gym front-desk attendant, magazine salesman, office manager, museum docent and SO MANY (TOO MANY!) more.

I honestly believe all those jobs brought me to my writing and art. I did those jobs to stay financially afloat so I could concentrate on finding what I really wanted to do in life. So, in essence, all those jobs were like an internship. Each job taught me about myself, my work, my goals, and helped me pay rent. They also kept me focused on mastering my love for making stuff so I NEVER HAVE TO GO BACK TO PICKING UP SWEATY TOWELS AT A GYM FRONT DESK.

H: Your majors do not necessarily lend themselves to the world of entertainment journalism. Who or what initially inspired you to pursue a career in writing? Specifically, the entertainment journalism side of things.

B: My parents have always been supportive of my writing. Actually, many teachers through out middle and high school were as equally supportive.

On the journalism side, one of my mentors/good friends/ Editor of Splash magazine at the Chicago Tribune, Molly Each (check her out at mollyeach.com, she’s brilliant), was the first to really introduce me to fun freelance writing. She helped me score a gig at a magazine in Chicago where I got to cover everything from local fashion parties to style and it allowed me to explore my writing interests while focusing on my writing voice. She’s really been the main supporter of my writing career and I couldn’t thank her enough for that!

I also have to shout out my partner who is the motivator of my writing. Having a guy that listens to me read him my original drafts to offer his opinion is love. Trust me, original draft listening isn’t often pretty.

H: We discovered you through your efforts at MTV, but you have been published in a number of internationally recognized publications and blogs. Did you have any full time roles in the world of writing before becoming a freelancer? What lead you to step away from the ‘norm’ and dive into freelance?

B: I mentioned before that I never had an official full-time job in writing, but I did have a staffed position at a travel magazine called Where while living in Chicago. It’s one of those glossy mags you pick up in a hotel in major cities. I covered the shopping section each month. It was still freelance, but it had specific deadlines, meetings, and expectations much like a full-time job.

I’ve been lucky to have so many opportunities to not have to get a full-time gig. Would I take a full-time job—absolutely, Especially if it was good one! But my dogs are resting on my feet as I gather my morning pitches as we speak and I couldn’t ask for a better office environment than that!

H: How would you describe your writing style to people who may have never stumbled across your work before today?

B: I think it’s authentic to who I am in real life. It’s conversational, witty, punny, approachable, but it also takes many thoughtful introspective angles. It all really depends on what I’m writing for. My MTV voice is fun and sometimes sassy, my stories and essays can take a different, equally fun, tone.

I always want my writing to speak to a reader with a confidence that makes them want to trust the reasons they chose to take the time to read and engage in my work. However, I also want to offer an authentic vulnerability that makes them feel that I’m just like them and trying to figure out how what the heck this life is about while we all live together on a giant rock called “Earth” that’s just chilling in space.

Translation: I like to write like how I converse when I am on my second glass of wine at a dinner party—Buzzy without the sloppy slurring.

H: Without going too in-depth, please walk us through a normal work day:

B: I wake up and stalk pop stars on Instagram (I pitch a lot of photo interest stories to MTV), hit up a coffee shop for breakfast, feed the pups, hit the MTV Buzzworthy blog to get my stories in as soon as possible (Most of the time, our pieces ask for quick turn around). I take my dogs on a long walk to the dog park so I can clear my head, think about what’s next in the day or get inspired. (Seriously, go to a dog park if you’re every frustrated with work –creative or not. Seeing dogs live up life, chilling with each other and barking because it feels good is the best way to realize that no matter what you do today, it’s pretty awesome to have the chance to do it. )

Later, I work on my book(s) I’m writing, search the Internet for funny stuff to post on my friend’s Facebook walls, search for GIFs that properly express my feelings. Then I spend time searching for places to send my literary work, work on more personal work, search for more GIFs that express my feelings.

H: Beyond paychecks and steady work, how do you measure your success in writing?

B: There is nothing more gratifying than when a random reader sends me a twitter message or email saying “I loved your work!” Even more special is when someone contacts me to say how an essay or story I wrote changed their life, made them decide to do something they were on the fence about, or made them feel confident knowing they weren’t alone in an experience I also once had myself.

I had a teenager read a story of mine that talked about being in the closet in a small town and said that it saved him from doing something drastic to his life. To me, stories that connect us to people we have never met and probably will never meet, is the power of the writer. I feel fortunate enough to have that gift and chance to connect to others. Sometimes that connection with others is about Rihanna; sometimes that connection is about changing someone’s perception on life.

H: You do a lot of work outside the world of journalism as well. From storytelling events, to teaching, and even running The Everyday Gay. As someone who seems to have done or created everything he’s wanted, what goals do you have for the future? What areas of writing and entertainment would you like to pursue further, or perhaps look into for the first time?

B: I’ve been the luckiest dude ON THIS PLANET when it comes to the chances I’ve gotten with my work. Partaking and winning The Moth, being a part of 2^nd Story in Chicago (check them out: www.2ndstory.com), being published in anthologies and working with so many talented editors in the media business have all been amazing gifts that I will never take for granted.

BUT I WANT MORE!

I’m currently working on my book, collecting short stories for another idea, concentrating on my essay collection and have a dream of writing a children’s book (or collection of those). I’ve always had a dream of being a travel show television host—not giving up on that. I used to do on camera acting/commercial work and loved the scene and I think there’s a great way to tell stories.

H: A lot of the people reading this are young writers currently starting out in, or at least considering beginning a career in the world of journalism/criticism. What advice would you offer these people to help further their efforts?

B: There’s the classic advice like, “Stick to it!” or “Don’t get frustrated when you don’t get published!” Those are always legit.

However, I’m going to serve up some professional advice realness: Meet your deadlines. I don’t care who or what you’re writing for, don’t be that person that is always late with copy or doesn’t turn around a re-write for a literary magazine on time. It’s rude, it frustrates editors, and that bad reputation will get around to other editors. It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many professional writers don’t stay on deadline. I’ve actually gossiped with editors about writers that are like this and how they are chucked to the bottom of lists during assignment time.

Also, be nice to your editors. THEY WORK THEIR BUTTS OFF and are under a lot of stress. Trust me. Just like any other job, being a freelance writer is about maintaining graces and understanding that it’s not all about you. I am so grateful for all the editors I’ve ever worked with during my career. It’s a collaboration that has taught me to be a better writer.

H: What is your favorite article you’ve written recently? If you have two, go ahead and share both.

B: My favorite article would have to be about Lady Gaga meeting the infamous “YAAAS Gaga” fan! http://buzzworthy.mtv.com/2014/02/18/lady-gaga-yas-gaga-fan/

I also want to give a shout out to two stories collections I’m in:

Finally, I’m in two books: http://www.amazon.com/Briefly-Knocked-Unconscious-Low-Flying-Duck/dp/0984670068

http://www.amazon.com/Windy-City-Queer-LGBTQ-Dispatches/dp/0299284042/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393435876&sr=1-1&keywords=dispatches+from+the+windy+city

H: I noticed on your personal website there is a pie chart about the things you quote the most, with Sex & The City taking up 50% of the image. Do you think there should be a third film, or did the sequel spoil all the fun? I still tell people I’m a Miranda.

B: I am not joking when I say that I will write, direct, and do whatever it takes to get that third SATC film out in to the world. It needs to be finished. I wasn’t a fan of the second film, but we need the completion. GIVE IT TO US NOW, PARKER.

H: Looking ahead to the rest of 2014, do you have any projects or special events planned you can share with us?

B: As I mentioned before I’m just working on my book. I’m also hoping to get back in to live storytelling. You can follow my twitter (@byronjflitsch) to get those details or check out my site.

H: If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

B: We need to tone down the epic “It’s coming” build up of albums. So many pop stars build up their forthcoming music via their social media accounts or with such gigantic buzz and then the music comes and we’re like, “meh.”

When Beyoncé dropped her latest masterpiece out of nowhere the world STOPPED. They weren’t expecting it so we dropped everything to listen to it to build our own expectations. I think that’s a part of music we have lost—building our own expectations and not using all the hoopla to get us to create our own opinion. I think surprising fans is more of a statement than wooing them.

Tags Blogging, buzzworthy, Byron Flitsch, haulix, interview, Journalism, lady gaga, MTV, music, Music Business, Pop Music, testimonial

News

Blogger Spotlight: Tamar Anitai (MTV Buzzworthy)

Post author By James Shotwell
Post date October 15, 2013

Hello and welcome to another edition of the Haulix Blogger Spotlight series. Today’s column is by far our longest to date, so make sure you bookmark this page in case you get pulled away by a cute cat video or, you know, work. If you have a writer or publication you feel deserved to be featured in an upcoming installment of this series, please do not hesitate to email james@haulix.com and share your recommendation.

Say what you will about the age of reality television, but I have yet to meet a person in the music business who doesn’t still want their MTV. Programming changes have occurred, sure, but the original national stage for all things alternative is still a force to reckon with thanks to the unstoppable efforts of their digital team. Of those, no brand is probably more widely recognized than the Buzzworthy Blog, and this afternoon we’re going to learn about the young woman who leads this long-running section of MTV.

Fate has a funny way of making you think twice about the things you were once sure of, and for a long time Tamar Anitai was sure she wanted to become a rabbi. She entered college with this goal in mind, but along the way realized the rabbinical life was not for her, and as many do began examining her other interests in search of a potential career path. After a few attempts elsewhere she settled on an English major that, coupled with the introduction of the internet to households across America by way of AOL in the early 90s, eventually lead her to a number of internships at various print publications (yes, news was still printed regularly at this point). Here Tamar cut her teeth in writing, and as her career turned digital she began working more heavily with music. She now serves as the Managing Editor the Buzzworthy blog, and today we could not be more excited to share her journey.

Tamar has a gift for wordplay that never ceases to amaze me, and from the early days of this column I knew she would deliver a great interview if the opportunity ever presented itself. We tried for months to connect and the results could not be better. She has built a career for herself through hard work and determination that is nothing short of inspiring, and the craziest part of it all is that she still has a long life in writing to lead as she helps guide MTV’s online presence into 2014 (and beyond).

If you want to stay up-to-date with everything Tamar has going on, make it point to read the Buzzworthy blog daily and follow the official Twitter account. Any additional questions or comments can be left at the end of this post.

H: for the record, state your name and job title

TA: Tamar Anitai, and I’m the managing editor of the MTV Buzzworthy Blog.

H: Let’s start simple. Do you remember the first album you purchased with your own money?

TA: Oh man. I think it might’ve been the Technotronic “Pump Up The Jam” cassingle, the analog precursor to the iTunes single download!! It was definitely from an Eastern Cleveland mall that I’m sure no longer exists. That and the cassingle, both long dead!

H: When you think of your earliest memories of music, what comes to mind?

TA: Folk music that my mom listened to – Mamas and Papas. Stuff my dad listened to when I was a kid – Bob Seger’s “Like A Rock.” Listening to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and being terrified by Vincent Price’s voice.. Watching the making of the “Thriller” video on MTV and being mesmerized and also terrified by Michael Jackson’s werewolf eyes.. Early ‘80s Madonna – the “Borderline” video and how she wore different colored neon socks was like an early Stan moment for me! I was a huge Madonna fan. I still have her “Like A Virgin” tape. I remember listening to a lot of Power 108 in Cleveland and taping it off of the radio. I was really into Debbie Gibson and still wonder about that face she drew on her knee on her “Out Of The Blue” album cover. That was kinda punk. I used to sit in my room for hours and wonder what the New Kids On The Block were doing at that exact same moment and if they or other famous people really used the bathroom. Whitney Houston had a tremendous impact on me in terms of loving a commanding female belt. Her “Whitney album is one of my first albums. I’ve always had a love of musicals from very early on – “West Side Story,” especially. Anything Rodgers and Hammerstein or Sondheim. Anything Barbra Streisand. Oh, and I really loved freestyle R&B. Still do. The Jets, Sweet Sensation, Taylor Dayne. There you go – lots of disparate answers for you. That still kind of informs my musical influences and tendencies today – broad, random and disparate.

H: I know you’re busy, but i want to cover as much ground as we can in this piece. You have been working in writing/content creation for more than a decade at this point. Do you remember what inspired you to follow a career path in journalism?

TA: I started out wanting to be a rabbi. My mom’s still bummed that didn’t work out. Ha. (But for the record, I go to temple more than she does, so that counts for something, right?) In college when I realized rabbinical life wasn’t for me, I thought I might want to teach writing, until I realized that wasn’t really what I wanted to do either.. I liked performing and the theater and singing, and I did that as a kid and in high school and college, but at heart, I lack the ultra ultra cut-throat competitiveness you need in those fields, and I wanted to have more options to be able to support myself, (so I became a writer – HA HA!), so performing became less important to me as a career path. I knew I loved writing and was good at it, and I’d hoped that I’d be able to support myself that way, and I figured it was a hard skill that will always be needed in some way or another (at least I sincerely hope so), so I pursued an English major with a concentration in journalism and technical writing. I always loved non-fiction, journalism, anything that was telling real stories or providing commentary, context, or insight, putting many pieces together into a package (which is a huge part of why I love digital editorial – you have the ability to tell a story dynamically and multi dimensionally). I was only ever really interested in journalism and non-fiction. I’ve never really been interested in creating fiction. I have a massive amount of respect for novelists, short story writers, anyone who can create a whole new world on a blank page. But I do believe truth is stranger than fiction.

In the mid ‘90s when it became a little more commonplace to own a personal computer, and AOL brought the Internet (or some rudimentary portal version of it) and email into the mainstream, and the Internet started growing and becoming available, I loved the fact that you could just get lost in any number of online worlds and connect with people absolutely anywhere in the world. I was in college and thought I might want to write for magazines, and then I interned at several magazines and newspapers, which was an invaluable experience on every level. Newspapers actually let me write. Magazines wouldn’t let us like 1000 feet from their pages, which ended up being a blessing in disguise because I realized I liked the pace of newspapers and became less interested in the extremely slow life cycle of magazines. I liked the pace of daily papers more, but I realized I really loved the ability to publish instantaneously to the Internet, so I finally realized I wanted to “something with writing on the Internet.” Broad, I know, but the opportunities for online editorial are also very broad and more democratic.

H: Which came first, the love of music or the love of writing? When did you first begin to combine the two?

TA: Probably a love of music since I can identify so many different songs for every different year and phase and crucial experience in my life, and I can’t say that I have personal writings I identify with for every part of my life. (I have really embarrassing poetry I wrote in middle and high school and during my Tori Amos phase, though.) But music has provided the meaning behind moments for me. Writing was something I enjoyed when I was in school and realized I was good at it and not horrible at it, like I was math or gym. Ha. I worked at AOL from 2000 – 2005, and I began to combined the two professionally when I got a job at AOL Music in New York in 2001.

H: From what I’ve learned, you got your start in the business by reviewing theatrical productions. Can you tell us a bit about finding your footing in the entertainment business?

TA: Well in high school I was one of four local student movie critics for what was then the Virginian-Pilot/Ledger Star newspaper in Hampton Roads, Virginia. I applied for that gig and wrote a movie review about how I didn’t see “Jurassic Park,” and I guess my sarcasm helped land me that gig. I think I got paid about $25 an article. Not bad for 1993. So I actually had legitimate press clips when I started to put together a portfolio after college when I started looking for jobs. I lived in New York the summer between my junior and senior years of college. I interned at Jane Magazine (R.I.P!) back when it was still part of Fairchild on 34th Street. I interned at W for the then-features editor James Reginato, and I was unpaid at Fairchild, so I needed to make some money. I worked at a smoothie place in the West Village, and because neither publication let their interns write, I knocked on the door at Showbusiness Weekly (like, literally, I think I actually knocked on the door) and asked if they needed theater critics. So they hired me as a freelance writer. (Turns out people love free or extremely cheap help!) I reviewed some off-off Broadway shows, and I did some editing. Actually, I don’t even think I was paid. I gave it away for free. Man, I was a whore. Actually that’s not even being a whore because whores are, by definition, paid. I was a slut, I guess, editorially. But really, I was hustling because I knew I loved New York and wanted to come back after graduation, and I knew I’d need to support myself. I didn’t have any money to spare, my parents were spending money they barely had to put me in an NYU dorm for the summer (no one I knew had heard of Craigslist yet, so you stayed in the dorms). I ate a lot of ramen and other various soups to get that experience to help land me back here after college.

In college I reviewed theater (huge conflict of interest come to think of it, since I also performed – ha, whatever). I went to school at James Madison University in Virginia, and when I graduated, AOL was growing just an hour and a half north in Dulles, Virginia. I loved being online and couldn’t wait to get out of school and hopefully land an editorial job online. I applied to AOL and was offered entry level editorial/ programming jobs at their parenting channel and their local guide channel, and I went with the local guides, which were called Digital Cities back then. They were basically a rudimentary Yelp. I worked in the DC area, had great bosses, wrote and edited, and when a job opened up at AOL Music in New York, I applied and was like LOOK. I’M YOUR GIRL. I PUH-ROMISE YOU. I GOT THIS. At the interview, I bonded with the other programming managers over Jeff Buckley. And I got the gig. That eventually helped me get this job at MTV. Between then I also started my own fashion blog called FashionBinge basically just for fun (don’t laugh – it’s still on Blogger), and I’m so glad I did because I basically taught myself the basics of blogging, SEO, coding, and I still had a place to keep writing..

H: Do you have any advice for those that are currently starting out with dreams of finding steady employment in entertainment as far as early work and internships are concerned?

TA: All of the above. Be willing to hustle. Outside of anything illegal or that offends your sensibilities or moral code, be willing to do absolutely anything. I opened Jane Pratt’s mail, and she didn’t even know who I was, but I wasn’t too good to open mail at Jane, transcribe interviews, fetch coffee, whatever. Be eager. I heard the legendary Joan Rivers speak at the Lucky FABB Conference a few years back, and her advice to the group of bloggers was you’re never ever ever ever too good for a job. Ever. At any age. Say yes. Amazing advice. Be willing and be open. But you’ve gotta hustle. Rarely does anyone give you anything, so don’t be entitled, and don’t expect opportunities to magically appear. Sometimes they do, but they’re rarely “magic.” You’ve probably laid the foundation or left a breadcrumb trail to you earlier in your career. But if you’re not leaving those breadcrumbs behind then they’re never going to find you.

H: From theatre to AOL, you spent a number of years crafting your content strategy efforts before you eventually found your current home at MTV. What can you tell us about landing this job?

TA: I had had a job for a year and a half or so at a stock photo agency doing their communications and marketing. It was a small company that was being grown and groomed to be sold to Getty. I got that job because I’d had three jobs at AOL within five years and was still early on in my career and was looking for a change. Once I was there I realized I missed working at a somewhat larger company, and I saw the gig at MTV and jumped on it. Another piece of career advice – my first role at MTV was at least two or three years junior to where I was at that point, but I knew MTV would be a great place to work and provide far more opportunities, so I didn’t look at that more junior title and say “Oh, I’m so beyond this.” Look beyond the title. Titles mean little when it comes to your day-to-day opportunities and obligations, especially if you’re working for managers who are willing to let you get your hands dirty and experiment and do what you’re good at and do more of that. I’m really glad I didn’t give a shit about titles, because the opportunities here have been tremendous.

H: The Buzzworthy label is one of the most well known aspect of MTV, and it seems every artist or group in music wants to have that label attached to their efforts. What makes an artist buzzworthy?

TA: It’s like art or porn – you know it when you see it. Ha. Just kidding. Kind of. There aren’t many strict parameters beyond, of course, pop music, though we don’t delve too far into country or much metal. Pop music is, of course, extremely broad, which is great because you can cast a really wide net in terms of the content you’re curating. But really, it’s an artist whose sound absolutely grabs me on some level. It might be, like, wow, this is really visceral, emotional, profound music that reminds me of Fiona Apple. It might be like, wow, this feels like early Green Day. Or this is SUCH a good, shameless party jam. An artist that’s Buzzworthy is someone who’s making music that I know will connect with a certain type of person or fan base on some level. It’s something I hear and I can say “I know EXACTLY who this appeals to,” and there’s so much value in that.

H: You’ve successfully grown MTV’s web presence and traffic year-over-year in spite of the growing number of competition in the market. What can you share about your content strategy (without giving away any secrets, of course)?

TA: Well, I have the benefit of the longview, right? Having done this for a while, I can usually identify and say, yeah, historically, this type of content “does well,” this type of content doesn’t, but it’s always been important to me to present the Buzzworthy audience with smart, fun, funny commentary on pop music, and the bigger names are usually the ones who perform better. But you’ve got to have your eyes and ears open for new artists who are under the radar but could be the next One Direction or Katy Perry. Or artists who may never play Barclays or Glastonbury but who are still amazing and deserve recognition and coverage. I love being able to say “Hey, I love this, and I hope you will too.” Anyway, performance and metrics and traffic are important, but curation is just as important. And knowing what type of content to create is hugely important. The same formula and type of content doesn’t work for every artist or song. It’s not one size fits all. Another thing i love about online editorial and working for MTV – there’s so much room to experiment.

H: Some people believe there is no need for critics in the digital age. Do you agree? (Support your response)

TA: Wow, good question. I don’t agree. I think people are looking for trusted names and brands and to cut through the noise and clutter. There’s more music content and entertainment options out there, which is wonderful – it’s literally impossible to be bored. If you’re bored in 2013, you’re doing everything wrong. But given that there’s a bottomless well of available music options, you want that voice who finds the good stuff for you. Which isn’t the same thing as making decisions for you or telling you what to think or believe. I always want Buzzworthy to feel like a person. That nice, cool, funny kid in your class who’s friends with everyone, nice to everyone, and you always trust to be into good music. The kind of person who owns their taste and isn’t into the snobbery of it but loves to discover new music and wants to share that with you. too.

H: When it comes to receiving music for feature consideration, which services do you prefer and why?

TA: Honestly, I love the ease of use of Soundcloud. Any of the services that require a separate login and password, which I’ll inevitably lose, slows you down a step, or two. When people send me unsolicited MP3s that kill my inbox, I’ve been known to drop a few F bombs.

H: What is the hardest part of this ‘job’ you’ve made for yourself?

TA: Oh keeping up with the emails, absolutely. Balancing all of the projects I’ve really into and excited about (I get really really hyper and excited about new projects and opportunities. I’m definitely that person who like rushes into someone’s office all gung ho and breathless and like THIS ONE TIME, AT BAND CAMP hyperventilating about some new thing I want to try or implement or share.) But I really do love being busy, and I love that the day flies by. I’ve been at MTV for seven years, and I can’t remember ever once saying or feeling anything like “Man, this day is dragging” or “I’m so bored.” That just doesn’t exist. I’m very fortunate.

H: How would you describe your writing style to someone who has never read the Buzzworthy blog?

TA: The Buzzworthy Blog is where Stan culture meets music discovery. My writing style is usually very first person. I love to be a clown, and I hope that my writing comes across as self-deprecating and inclusive. There’s so much contrarianism and negativity. I love saying WHO CARES about guilty pleasures. If you love it, why is that a reason to feel guilty? I always hope you read my writing or Buzzworthy’s writers’ and feel like you can totally relate because a friend is recommending this to you. People usually tell me I write exactly like I talk, and I take that as a compliment.

H: Music is in a strange place right now. EDM-infused pop is still everywhere, but there is a growing admiration for artists using more throwback-like sounds as well. What do you think the next big thing in music will be?

TA: I kind of love that even that even though dance music is huge and obviously sampling and remixing and slick, glossy production (shout out to Mike Will Made It because I love what he’s doing not just to hip-hop but to hop, and I’ll always love anything Max Martin touches – he’s truly music’s Midas), I love that a guy like Ed Sheeran, who just shows up with a guitar and hoodie and sells out Madison Square Garden three times over, I love that there’s room for singer-songwriters like him and Jake Bugg. I LOVE Haim, so I’d love if more people were more receptive to girls and guitars. Guitars in general are kind of disappearing since dance music. I really miss the singer-songwriter/guitarist. Think about how many songs you love you can identify just by a few opening guitar riffs (shout out to Katy Perry though for opening “Teenage Dream” with that intoxicating guitar riff) “Come As You Are,” “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “Losing My Religion,” the Smashing Pumpkins’ “Today,” or “Laila,“ “Sweet Jane,” “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt, “Blackbird,” “Last Night” by The Strokes. I miss a bunch of dudes with guitars! Ha.

Almost any Simon and Garfunkle song. So I’d love to see guitars get their due.

I’m glad AutoTune is basically over, except for Daft Punk or Kanye, because they always get a pass.
Speaking of Katy Perry, I love that her “Walking On Air” single as brought back that deep house ‘90s feel to radio, because I never get sick of that.

H: If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

TA: More open format radio and less redundancy on the radio. I wish terrestrial radio were programmed more openly and freely. Label deals with radio stations often benefit the same handful of artists, which is great for those artists, and the success of those artists can help labels boost and buoy funds for smaller artists, but it’d be amazing to hear those artists on the radio in the first place instead of the same 10 songs over and over, even if they’re songs or artists I love. I’d love for more discovery to happen on the radio in the first place. But I think this is actually a very exciting time and place for the music industry. Yes, there are fewer labels than in the past, but there are more avenues for music discovery than ever before on every piece of smart technology you own, even your actual TV set. And you don’t have to have a traditional record deal to build a fan base, which is rather incredible. My problems, though, aren’t that much with the music industry itself in terms of labels but rather looking at music more holistically and historically and realizing that music history and lessons are so crucial, and funding for music in schools is no longer a guarantee. When I was in elementary school you didn’t have a choice – you had to lean at least one instrument. So, funding for music in schools is so much more important to me than the commercialization of music and album sales. If we don’t expose kids to music and give them the option to learn to read and write and play music we’ll have much bigger problems than dwindling album sales. Music in schools is literally the future music industry.

H: Before we let you go, can you tell us a bit about what you have planned in the months ahead?

TA: I have a few incredible Buzzworthy Live acoustic performances coming up, some exciting Live From MTV live music events in the works, some great short-form videos I really hope everyone will love, the EMAs on November 10 are going to bigger than ever with some extra special events planned, our comprehensive MTV year-end review, artists to watch in 2014, we’ll be going back to Hangout Fest in 2014, and so much more.

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