How we’re helping the next big thing (and Thailand)

Commercial Radio Australia have launched a new initiative to discover and support the next big thing in Aussie music.

'First Break' is for unsigned artists who haven't had anything in the Top 100.

Radio and The Mushroom Group will support the eventual winner for 12 months. This will include touring, marketing and airtime for their first 2 singles.

It's not surprising that Michael Gudinski, Head of The Mushroom Group, is working with CRA on this, as he is an extremely enthusiastic supporter of Australian music.

“This is a real opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with commercial radio to help develop and support Australian talent. First Break will give a unique opportunity to a solo performer or band, who have perhaps got themselves to a certain level, to really kick in some doors”, he said.

'First Break' replaces NA2R (New Artists 2 Radio) which has been around for a decade.

CRA CEO, Joan Warner says…

“…the industry decided it was time for a new approach to make the project even more powerful and ensure a real career breakthrough for Australian artists on commercial radio."

Judges will include PD's, MD's and Mushroom representatives (which I'm sure Gudinski will personally want to be part of – he loves it !!). The winner will be announced at the end of September.

See more here

What was that about Thailand ???

CRA are also busy this week hosting a delegation from Thailand who are here to see how DAB+ works in Australia. They are meeting with techs, policy makers and broadcasters to determine whether DAB+ is right for their country.

They might also want to read Des DeCean's article on digital radio and some of the issues that exist in Australia. Pt 1 here Pt 2 here.