"You Can't Manufacture A Rock Star"

What does it really take to build a rock legend?

In this episode of The Blinding Talent Podcast, Mark Adams sits down with Steve Tannett, Director of Marshall Records, former artist manager, record executive, and one of the music industry's most experienced talent spotters.

Steve's journey began in the heart of the UK punk explosion, playing alongside the era that produced bands such as The Clash, The Damned and the Sex Pistols before being discovered by legendary music manager Miles Copeland. Since then, he has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including The Police, Sting, R.E.M., Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi, Ronnie James Dio, Duran Duran, Nova Twins and The Molotovs.
Together, Mark and Steve discuss:

▪️ The reality of the UK punk scene in the 1970s
▪️ Being discovered by Miles Copeland and signing his first record deal
▪️ Working with The Police, Sting, Black Sabbath and R.E.M.
▪️ How Marshall Records was launched
▪️ The qualities every great artist and future rock legend shares
▪️ The rise of The Molotovs and Nova Twins
▪️ Why grassroots music venues are essential for the future of music
▪️ Artist development, A&R and spotting talent before anyone else
▪️ The impact of AI on the music industry
▪️ Why live music, vinyl and human connection still matter

This conversation is packed with stories, lessons and insights from over 45 years in the music business, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at artist development, record labels, management and the future of rock music.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Steve Tannett's Punk Rock Beginnings
04:00 Getting Signed by Miles Copeland
08:00 Building Marshall Records
13:00 What Makes a True Rock Legend?
19:00 The Rise of The Molotovs
24:00 A&R Instincts and Signing Artists
29:00 The Alarm and Early Success
34:00 The Police, Miles Copeland and Taking Risks
40:00 Why Grassroots Venues Matter
46:00 Nova Twins, Download Festival & The Future of Rock
49:00 AI, Live Music and the Next 10 Years
54:00 Final Thoughts

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