The Industry Secrets We Learned at The Headline Acts Workshop

It’s rare that one gets to experience being up close and personal with some of the biggest names in music as they dish out their advice to budding creatives, but Headline Acts’ latest initiative, Headline Access, has done just that.

Much more than just a wine, Headline Acts is committed to backing Aussie artists and giving back to the music industry and the fans that support it while celebrating and supporting budding local musicians.

Headline Acts hosted two days of intimate artist and industry-led workshops. Credit: Rocket Weijers

As the official wine partner of Laneway 2023, Headline Acts hosted two days of intimate artist and industry-led workshops that aimed to give aspiring artists the opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge on navigating the music landscape from some of the biggest names in music.

Kicking off the first session on February 1 at Auckland’s East Street Hall hosted by MC SLAVE from Fat Freddy’s Drop was Baltimore hardcore outfit Turnstile who lead Auckland’s round of Headline Access as they reflected on a decade of commanding moshpits across the globe with their progressive back catalogue and spirited punk ethos.

Credit: Rocket Weijers

Joining the series of talks was UK rapper Slowthai, Tasman Keith and Auckland-based power-pop group The Beths, whose penchant for clever, fast loud songs has earned a loyal following and critical acclaim.

We hit up Sydney’s Abercrombie Hotel on February 7 for the second Headline Access event, which saw journalist Mikey Cahill and music writer Sose Fuamoli host the inspiring workshop that took place on the sunny rooftop venue – and here are just a couple of the enlightening industry secrets we learned thanks to the trailblazing initiative.

Rapper Tasman Keith also gave advice to budding musos at the Sydney workshop. Credit: Rocket Weijers

Listen to your heart and know your worth

Following welcome drinks and epic tunes spun by up-and-coming DJs, guests were introduced to the event’s host, before listening to a member of the Stolen Generations and an Aboriginal man of the Gamilaroi Nation, Uncle Michael West.

As he gave An Acknowledgement of Country, West, who is a member and Cultural Representative of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC), delighted and educated attendees on the historical significance of the Gadigal people while offering his own sage advice. 

Speaking of his fondness for music – including the Red Hot Chilli Peppers – he encouraged the crowd of musical creatives to always “listen to your heart”.

“Always know your worth,” he poignantly added, emphasising the importance for creatives to back themselves when it comes to their skills, aspirations, and dreams.

Don’t underestimate yourself

Support Act psychologist Ash King got the creative juices flowing for attendees with her introspective Creative Minds session, which saw guests reflect, embrace new connections, and begin a journey of self-discovery.

Among the activities was the audience being divided into groups and tasked with creating a 10-second song using only items in their immediate vicinity.

Despite the initially terrifying concept, the immediate bond and creativity among the groups of people who had never met each other prior to this was evident, and the end result of each group was surprisingly creative.

This, King later explained, demonstrated how budding creatives should never underestimate themselves. 

If we could produce a piece of work in ten minutes while collaborating with a group of strangers, then what else could we achieve that we previously thought we couldn’t?

The pathway is different for everyone

Up next were Auckland-based power-pop group The Beths, whose penchant for clever, fast loud songs has earned a loyal following and critical acclaim.

Speaking of their journey traversing the New Zealand music scene until they found their calling in The Beths, singer Elizabeth Stokes had great advice when it comes to chasing your dreams.

The Beths were among the artists to talk at the Sydney workshop.

“I thought it was ‘too late’ for me to start a rock band,” she explained in regards to forming her current act in her mid-20s, adding, “I now reject that idea. The pathway is different for everyone.”

Crafted to be enjoyed with great tunes, from backyard hangs to big festivals, Headline Acts offers varieties of wine in Rosé Bubbles, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Shiraz.

On every bottle, you’ll find music-inspired artwork, with a curated Spotify playlist that was fiercely debated and finally agreed upon by musos, DJs, and vinyl junkies alike.

To find out more about Headline Access’ Industry Reward Programs, check out their website or check out Headline Acts on Instagram. You can also purchase Headline Acts at your local Liquorland and independent bottle shops.

Remember to DrinkWise.