Brooklyn-based Greg Vegas is Director of Client Relations, Americas for Downtown-owned distributor, FUGA. A renowned champion of new music and long-time music industry professional for over 30 years, Greg’s music industry experience covers a wide range of areas, from distribution (physical and digital), artist management, artist development, and record labels, through to musician and promoter. Greg has an international focus on independent companies and artists he has worked with, which has brought him recognition as a trusted resource in navigating the global music industry.
Tell us about what inspired you to work in the music industry, and how did it lead to the work you do today?
When I got to college in the mid-80s, and joined my college radio station WXCI (Danbury,CT) where College Radio was how the next big things (i.e R.E.M., Husker Du, THe Pixies, etc) were getting discovered.
I had started to engage with these independent label promo people who were turning me on to these cool new bands. I thought, this is a cool gig! Then I interned at Homestead Recs for a quick minute - met the cool/crazy people behind the scenes - and felt right at home. Formed a band (Monsterland) in the early 90’s alt rock boom, got signed to Atlantic Record s- also for a quick minute - then immediately post-band breakup (1994) started my path working for indie distributors, which got me in the mix with many of my favourite indie labels and bands. The path was set for the most part.
I had started to engage with these independent label promo people who were turning me on to these cool new bands. I thought, this is a cool gig! Then I interned at Homestead Recs for a quick minute - met the cool/crazy people behind the scenes - and felt right at home. Formed a band (Monsterland) in the early 90’s alt rock boom, got signed to Atlantic Record s- also for a quick minute - then immediately post-band breakup (1994) started my path working for indie distributors, which got me in the mix with many of my favourite indie labels and bands. The path was set for the most part.
Is there a success story or career milestone that you are most proud of?
Besides being proud of somehow still being employed in the music business for the past 30+ years, not the least, employed by one of the most respected in the business, FUGA, there are many moments I can think of. The most exciting was being part of the Peter Bjorn & John management team during their “Young Folks” days - being nominated and attending the MTV Music Awards in Las Vegas. Another was being hired by Norway’s PHONOFILE distribution as their first US employee and finding myself attending meetings and conferences with Norwegian government officials - i.e. The Consulate General, The Minister of Technology and Innovation and The Minister of Death Metal (or something.. ) - listening to my opinions on the music industry!
Are there any projects you're working on or company updates that you're most excited about?
Generally, working on a focus to help our clients identify and utilize the wide range of services and offerings at FUGA and the wider Downtown group to help them grow; from physical distribution and marketing strategies through to royalty services. Being able to offer a client the tools they need to grow with a fair partnership always gives me a great buzz!
What's a lesson that you learned early on in the music biz?
Treat everyone with respect and value everyone’s time. Stay away from people and companies that don’t. This business is known for its toxic personalities and environments associated with success. But there are plenty of good people out there to do business with without wasting resources on managing the toxicity and lack of respect. And…. that intern might someday be your boss or client you are trying to do business with.
What's your favorite part of your job and/or company?
Our clients trust our expertise and knowledge, so I get a lot of satisfaction when we can identify a new opportunity to serve our clients even better, which in turn, builds strong, healthy partnerships and leads to shared success.
What does being independent mean to you?
Independent should mean being empowered to have access to a level playing field of the business, without compromise. A freedom to choose your own path to reach your own definition of success.
Favorite song at the moment? 🎶
Outside of your work in music, do you have any other hobbies or particular areas interest/expertise?
I am a relatively active musician as a tenor saxophonist in Brooklyn. I can be currently seen and heard playing with “blues-goth” band WEEGEE and sometimes with Indie Rock band SAVAK. I host pop-up record fairs meant for those who hate record fairs but love crate digging vintage vinyl. I have a small label called, Declared Goods where I get to work with a global network of talented friends and artists who I help release and promote their music. I also host a bi-weekly “radio” show at EAST VILLAGE RADIO in NYC
Any words of advise for rising music industry professionals?
Listen and learn! Knowledge is invaluable- try to learn all aspects of the business. Treat everyone with respect and in turn you will be respected.
Keep up with Greg on Instagram and LinkedIn!
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