Technology and platforms make it increasingly easy for independent musicians and DIY labels to release and promote their own music. However, understanding where and how to release your music for maximum impact can be a challenge. From the basics of where to start, through to running a successful campaign, this masterclass session delves deep with two key players in the independent releasing market: AWAL and Bandcamp.
Join us in conversation with Bandcamp EU Label Rep and owner of First Word Records, Aly Gillani and Cori Chinnici, an artist manager and AWAL Community Support Associate. Providing both a depth of knowledge across releasing, and experience working directly with music creators to develop their campaigns we will explore what makes a release work.
Aly Gillani | @djgilla
Aly Gillani is the European Label Rep for Bandcamp, a thriving, global music community where fans discover new artists, intimately connect with them, and directly compensate them for their work. Aly’s role involves expanding and managing the growing network of labels and artists using Bandcamp to connect with their fans.
He is also the founder / A&R for Worldwide Awards Label of the Year First Word Records, home to Children Of Zeus, Tall Black Guy, Eric Lau, Kaidi Tatham, Tawiah and many more. Originally a club promoter he ran seminal clubnights Funky Mule and New Bohemia in his adopted city of Leeds for many years. Starting First Word in 2004, he is also an acclaimed DJ with regular spots at a host of European venues and London radio stations Balamii and Worldwide FM.
Cori Chinnici | @Coru89
Originally from Italy, Cori moved to London five years ago to start their career in music. Their career began at the Music Managers Forum (FanFair Alliance) and they worked on Imogen Heap’s Mycelia Life Of A Song project as a research assistant. LOAS is an open source platform which encourages discussions around the Music Industry via interactive data visualisations. After working for Kobalt Music Publishing for two years, they’re now part of the AWAL Community Support Team. AWAL is redefining how artists and labels access the key services needed to succeed in today’s music industry. From world-class global marketing to real-time access into an artists’ music data and insight to ongoing education on the AWAL blog and community forum, AWAL is designed to support artists at every stage of their career. Cori also independently manages two artists (Geiste and Loelash), their mission is to work closely with artists to nurture their vision, whilst maintaining their artistic integrity.
With a great passion for education, they thrive to create a diverse and inclusive music environment.