Just Jaded
Music Industry Insights (Feat. Melanie Balbrick)
Written By: Brooklyn Poutra
Welcome back to this month's Music Industry Insights, for this month’s blog and podcast we chose to highlighted Melanie Balbrick. With experience and expertise in areas such as live events, PR, and fan engagement, this month's conversation provides valuable insights to all looking to get into the music industry. Be sure to check out the full conversation here!
Coming from a small city in France, Melanie is a student studying at BIMM Institute, formerly known as the British and Irish Modern Music institute. She moved to London to follow her passions of putting on shows and being the behind the scenes voice in music, and currently attends university in London to learn more about music and the music business.
Some of Melanie’s first experiences in the music industry included working in live events for artists like Zara Larsson and All Time Low, but she transitioned to fan engagement and then PR. Having no previous experience in PR Melanie interviewed for a position with Chuff Media in hopes to be an assistant for a touring and events company. In regards to the interview she said, “I’m a big believer of fake it til you make it, so when I had this interview I was like, “listen guys, I can't do anything, but I will do anything.’”. Having this mentality got her the job, and she has gained her first experience in PR.
Melanie entered the music industry during the pandemic, and was unsure what her path would be. Torn between live events and fan engagement, Melanie has had the opportunity to try them both out. How was she able to get these opportunities? Networking.
Overcoming fear of rejection or failure when reaching out to people on LinkedIn is something that Melanie has faced. She was able to get almost every job she has had by connecting with people through informational interviews or mutual connections, rather than simply applying on a company's website.
Understanding and appreciating the importance and difficulty of networking, Melanie has appreciated the ease of virtual networking. Encouraging introverts everywhere to take advantage of the day and age we are living in, Melanie knows that networking has never been easier, and has never been less scary. Sending an email, text, or LinkedIn message can spark up a wonderful connection, and it is important to know that not every connection will transpire into a job or grand opportunity, but it is good practice and important for those working towards career progression.
If you are interested in hearing more about live events, fan engagement, and PR, be sure to check out this month’s episode of A Little Jaded!