The joys of running an event – You just round up some artists, select a venue and sell some tickets right? Sounds easy yeah? Think again.
More often than not people underestimate how much work actually goes in to organising a large-scale event. Luckily for us we got Hospital’s own Events Manager, Josh, to take a minute from his hectic schedule to give us an insight into what it’s like to work for Hospital and what actually goes in to putting on some of the biggest parties in the scene, horror stories and all…
Yes Josh! How did you get involved with the Hospital events team?
I used to work at Fabric and then took over booking all the drum and bass at sister club Matter. I booked all the Hospitality parties at that venue but sadly, the club closed after 2 years. Chris and Tony wanted somebody in house to run all the events, so I took over!
And the rest, as they say, is history! Describe a day in the life of an event promoter…
Hit the office, banter with my work mates. Hit e-mails and the phone. Argue with agents about money and billing. Think of new snazzy ideas to promote shows. Sell tickets!!!
What are the essentials for a successful event?
DJ’s playing music they love. Fans coming because they love the music. All of us uniting together under one big massive Bright H.
Any horror stories from previous events?
Loads and way too many to mention. But a part of the ceiling falling down in Brixton academy was a recent one. Simply because the bass was too much for Brixton’s old walls. Meaning we very nearly had to close 2 hours early.
Oh wow, close call! On the night of the event do you get to let your hair down and enjoy yourself or are you ‘on duty’ until the event is finished?
A bit of both to be honest! If you’ve done your job properly, all the planning should be done in advance. And on the night you get to just sit back and soak it up. Inevitably last minute problems always arise. So you just need to keep a cool head and deal with them when they do. Don’t Panic!
Who are some of your favourite artists that you’ve worked with?
If I said any of the Hospital lot they’d get jealous. I love them all equally like my own children. But of the non-signed Hospital artists I’d have to say Dynamite MC. For being a consummate professional and literally always delivering. DJs wise I’d have to say DJ Craze. His skills are insane, and he’s just a proper laid back Miami dude.
Have you ever come across any weird/ extravagant rider requests?
Years ago before I ran Hospitality parties, a very well known Techno DJ refused to start playing until I had got him some Gatorade. I had to drive 3 miles to some crap newsagent that I knew had it and ask them to open late to give it to me. The DJ started 35 minutes late and just sat in the booth until he got it. No Gatorade, no records. Idiot.
Gotta stock up on those electrolytes… What is the biggest mis-conception about your role that people have?
That all the Hospital DJs play for free because it’s a Hospital party. They don’t ☺
What is your favourite part of the job?
The social aspect mainly. The office staff and everyone that works at the label is just super cool. I love to travel as well. I just dig the role, its good fun!
What is the least glamorous part of your role that people might not know about?
The reality of doing 17 shows in 17 days in a beautiful country. Being so close to so much cool stuff and just seeing airports and hotel rooms. I don’t want to sound ungrateful. But its difficult knowing you’re 30 minutes drive from Niagara Falls and you don’t have time to see them.
Highlights from the last year?
For me just the reaction to our London shows. 4 shows, over 12000 tickets, all sold out well in advance. But, mainly just the energy at every single one. People have been going bonkers at our parties, it’s great to see!
Career highlight?
There have been plenty, but I’ll say 2. The first being making a quick decision to take Hospitality to Brixton academy because I knew it could be done. The first show sold out 6 weeks ahead and we knew that DnB was big enough to do those venues again.
The second one was probably Lovebox in June 2013. I had just returned to work after a long period of ill health. I had nearly died, but I didn’t. My boss Chris welcomed me back in front of all our fans, was just a lovely moment I wont forget.
Ultimate achievement you’re working towards?
World drum and bass domination!
What advice would you give someone looking to get into events?
Run your own events, with your own money and your own ideas. Do that if you want someone to pick you up. As an employee, practical experience is invaluable. Putting yourself out there gets you noticed. Simples.
What’s coming up next?
We have just announced our London 2015 residency after being nomadic in 2014 and operating all over London. I’m pleased to be returning to Building 6 where it all started for me!
Hospitality return to Building Six on February 6th. Tickets are available here.