The Business of Meetings – Episode 216 – Behind the Scenes: The Art of Booking Bands for Corporate Events in the Entertainment Biz with Michael Owen
We are delighted to have another industry icon joining us today!
Michael Owen, the founder and managing partner of EventGenuity, has spent decades providing corporate entertainment, sharing event strategies, and offering education within the meetings and events industry.
He is with us today to highlight the importance of investing in the industry, learning from our past experiences, and building meaningful relationships with clients and vendors.
Michael has been entertaining people for as long as he can remember. Stay tuned for his captivating stories and illuminating insights.
Joining the Industry
Michael stumbled into the industry in 1996 during the WAEC in Nashville. He began his journey interacting with major national and international agencies and smaller ones, gaining valuable insights into the nuances of corporate entertainment. Over time, he honed his skills in advising and guiding artists and producers, emphasizing the importance of trust, professionalism, and attention to detail in navigating contracts and building lasting relationships within the industry.
Volunteering and Networking
Michael highlights the importance of volunteering and networking. He explains that volunteering leads to fabulous opportunities for contributing, learning, and forming meaningful connections.
Music Industry and Band Experience
As a musician, Michael knows the challenges and joys of performing and creating music, and his experience in the music industry has been varied and enriching. Through his involvement with bands, he understands the dynamics of collaboration, stage presence, and audience engagement, and his knowledge of production, sound, and performance logistics adds depth to his expertise, making him a valuable resource for musicians and producers.
Challenges in Entertainment Industry
The entertainment industry presents challenges that require constant adaptation and resilience. One of the main challenges is the ever-evolving nature of audience preferences and consumption patterns, which demand continuous innovation and creativity to stay relevant. Due to the competitive pressures of a crowded market, professionals must differentiate themselves and their content. Financial constraints, contractual complexities, and the unpredictable nature of success are additional challenges in the entertainment industry. Navigating those hurdles requires a combination of talent, strategic planning, industry knowledge, and a willingness to embrace change.
Strategic Approach to Entertainment
Discussing the strategic approach required in entertainment, Michael advises against simply going for popular acts without considering audience preferences. He highlights the value of legacy acts, managing expectations, and creating memorable audience experiences.
Corporate Entertainment Industry Insights
Michael’s understanding of the corporate entertainment industry stems from his experience working with major national and international agencies. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and relationships with key industry players.
Navigating the Entertainment Industry
Adaptability, resilience, and a proactive approach to challenges help individuals thrive and make meaningful contributions in the ever-evolving entertainment world. Navigating the entertainment industry requires a blend of talent, determination, and strategic networking. It also involves understanding the nuances of contracts and industry standards and building relationships with key stakeholders like agents, producers, and venue managers. Attention to detail, professionalism, and continuous learning also play vital roles.
Bio: Michael Owen
With decades of experience as a provider of corporate entertainment, event strategy, and industry education, Michael shares a wealth of knowledge gained through his career in the business events industry. His company, EventGenuity, LLC, supports meetings and events throughout North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
A meetings industry activist, Michael has served on the MPI International Board of Directors, TNSAE Board of Directors, NATD Board of Directors, PCMA Global Advocacy & Independent Planner Task Forces, as Chair of Convention Industry Council APEX Standards Committee, and as a member of The Meetings Industry Wi-Fi Coalition. Michael received the MPI RISE Meetings Industry Leadership Award and the Tennessee Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award.
Michael is a frequent presenter at industry conferences & learning institutions, speaking on what’s now & what’s next in meetings & events. He has published articles in Meetings and Conventions, Convene, Meeting Mentor Magazine, Connect Magazine, The Meeting Professional, Meetings Today, and Successful Meetings Magazine & as a guest columnist for The Tennessean and Nashville Business Journal.
Connect with Eric Rozenberg
On LinkedIn
Connect with Michael Owen
Email: m.owen@eventgenuity.com
Phone: (615)-367-4505
On LinkedIn
