Sneaky Sounds out the International Stage

Austrade media release

22 Dec 2006

With two ARIA nominations under their belt, opening this New Years Eve celebrations and a supporting gig with one of the world’s biggest pop acts, Robbie Williams, it seems the only place left for Sneaky Sound System to conquer is the world stage.

Sneaky Sound System will take their sound to market at the world’s largest business-to-business music tradeshow MIDEM in Cannes, France, 21 January 2007.

Amber Zada, Sneaky Sound Systems Manager says some people might think it’s a strange place to make an international debut.

“We feel that in order to continue the success we have had so far we have to acknowledge the international music industry. We are focused on licensing Sneaky Sound System to as many territories as possible and also touring in UK/Europe throughout 2007, Midem is a great place to make that happen” Ms Zada said.

“As an independent, we have recorded, marketed and promoted this current record ourselves and we have quite a unique business model to take to the International market. Rather than knocking on labels doors asking for money, we have a finished product that just needs a marketing budget invested.

“We’re really grateful to Austrade for their help in setting up this opportunity. When we heard they had people like AC/DC’s label on board we realised it was a big break!”

Austrade’s Export Advisor (Arts, Culture and Entertainment), Mathew Proft, believes MIDEM is the one of best places for independent acts to negotiate festival opportunities, touring, synchronisation and licensing deals.

“More than 10,000 key decision makers from across most genres in the major markets converge on Cannes every year,” Mr Proft said.

“It really is the best event to get Australian’s connected and to ensure that they include ‘business’ in their vision of being part of the music business.

“If last year is anything to go by, I expect Sneaky Sound System will be exposed to a whole lot of new opportunities that they wouldn’t get through any other avenue.

“Last year we saw people do deals with the US, Japan, Canada, Asia and even Australia and more than half the participants made sales.

“For example The ARIA award winning Audrey’s secured a record label release in Canada.

“Austrade has been actively involved in promoting Australian music overseas for many years now and I’m really seeing ongoing growth for independent labels. There has been a real increase in the numbers of deals done. Last year Austrade helped secure 26 music industry deals in European markets, valued at more than $160 million.”

Austrade works closely with music industry associations such as AIR and AMPAL to promote Australian music internationally.

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For information on participating in MIDEM or opportunities for export contact Mathew Proft, Austrade Sydney, on +61 2 9390 2084 or email mathew.proft@austrade.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact

Samantha Mattila
Tel: +61 2 9390 2388
Mobile: +61 434 567 673
samantha.mattila@austrade.gov.au

For further news and information from the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) visit www.austrade.gov.au//mediacentre.