On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Stephanie Wagner, founder of Country Swag, to talk about her journey through the country music industry and how she helped grow one of New York City’s leading country media brand. From its humble beginnings as a local event to becoming a national platform, Stephanie shares the story behind Country Swag’s rise and the passion that drives its community. They dive into the growth of country music in NYC, the opening of Common Country as a hub for fans, and the importance of giving back through charity work. Stephanie and Matt also discuss genre-blending in country music, the power of networking in Nashville, and what’s next for the Country Swag brand as it continues to expand its events and collaborations.

Follow on Social Media:
Stephanie Wagner: @stephwags
Country Swag: @countryswag
Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll
Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nicky T sit down with Brad Parker, a seasoned music industry professional with over 13 years of experience. From his time as a promoter with C3 Presents and Bonnaroo to his current role in artist management at Track Management, Brad shares his journey through the ever-changing music business. The guys dive into the power of live music, the importance of building authentic artist communities, and the healing connections music creates. Brad also reflects on unforgettable festival moments, the vital role of promoters, and why authenticity is key as he transitions into management.

Follow on Social Media:
Brad Parker: @bradparker
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Nicky T: @raisedrowdynickyt
Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In episode 37 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Carly Dibble, a talent buyer and event producer at Romeo Entertainment, one of the leading names in live event production. Carly opens up about her unlikely path into the music business, moving from a non-music background into the fast-paced world of talent buying. She shares what sets fairs apart from festivals, the behind-the-scenes realities of booking artists, and how talent buyers function much like real estate agents in the industry. Carly reflects on her transition from assistant to talent buyer, the unique challenges that smaller companies face, and how COVID-19 reshaped the live events landscape. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of relationships, creating unforgettable experiences for both artists and fans, and staying open to opportunities in a constantly changing industry. This episode is packed with insights for anyone curious about how fairs, festivals, and live events come together, and what it takes to succeed behind the curtain of the music business.

Follow on Social Media:

Carly Dibble: @icarldibbs

Matt Burrill: @ikeeverard

Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy