Getting Started: Chris Beltran (Atlantic Records/DF Concerts)
Ahead of Off The Record in Dumfries on Saturday 3 December, we caught up with Chris from Atlantic Records/DF Concerts about life in the music business...
How did you get started in the music industry?
I used to play in a band for a number of years and while I did that I flyered and worked in the box office at shows for DF Concerts to make money between playing shows. I always made a point of going to see other bands play in and around Glasgow. Not long after I stopped playing in the band I got asked to join the booking team at DF Concerts as their ear to the ground for new Scottish artists. I consider myself very lucky as I think I was in the right place at the right time with the right experience.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy being able to help new Scottish bands out by offering them various shows and helping them build a following. I remember being so excited about playing and going to gigs in the past so the idea that I'm helping put together shows that generate a similar level of excitement for other people is very rewarding.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Seeing all the bands on the TBreak stage at T In The Park last year go out there and have the shows of their lives was a massive highlight. So proud to see all the acts most of whom I'd previously worked with go out and play such great shows to such great crowds. Other highlights include promoting sold out headline shows in Glasgow with Scottish acts such as The Vegan Leather, The Lapelles, Wuh Oh and The Nickajack Men.
Off The Record takes place at The Stove, Dumfries on Saturday 3rd December for 14-25 year olds. Tickets are £2, and include free lunch and a release with EmuBands worth £25! Find out more & book tickets here.