Let's get down to business - Rebecca Poole (Purdy)

REBECCA Poole, aka Purdy, is a jazz singer and songwriter. She was born in Henley and attended Gillotts School and The Henley College. She recently released her third album, Dreamers Ball. She has also recently become engaged and is looking forward to getting married next year.

Describe your business

I am an independent music businesswoman, singer- songwriter and performer.

How many people does it employ?

It depends on the event but I have a wonderful team of creatives who I collaborate with, from musicians to production and tech people to agents and, of course, marketing and PR.

What did you do before you started this business?

Music has been my career but in my early years I worked in hospitality, events, film and entertainment.

When did you start your business?

I have built it up organically over time. I love running and hosting Purdy’s pop-up jazz club in the studio behind the Kenton Theatre. I brought that idea to life in 2017 and it’s still going strong.

What was your objective in starting your business?

To make a living out of music, which isn’t easy. It’s often a labour of love.

Who or what influenced you?

Before my first album, Diamond In the Dust, my manager suggested we set up an independent record company known as Purdy Music.

Do you have a mentor or role model?

Over the years I have worked closely with a successful producer called Andy Wright. He has been a great mentor for me, having worked with so many big stars. I often run things by him, especially related to the business side of the music industry.

What would you do differently if you could start again?

I might have been a bit more cut-throat but it’s not really in my nature. I probably could have understood the power of PR better but that shouldn’t really be the artist’s job. Back then my team dealt with that but these days artists have to wear all the hats.

How has your business pivoted since the coronavirus pandemic?

It was hard getting back into the swing of things and mustering the enthusiasm for it after losing so much momentum. It took the wind out of a lot of people’s sails. Personally, I feel I have come back stronger.

How is your business doing?

I’m enjoying a positive wave of interest and support for my latest album, Dreamers Ball. Some flattering reviews combined with rewarding sales have been the boost I needed to keep going.

Do you compare on a regular basis?

My work is not a normal 9-5 income, so work fluctuates and it’s hard to compare except annually.

How do you market yourself?

I use my mailing list to keep people abreast of upcoming shows and new records. Check them out at www.rebecca poole.co.uk

What’s the best thing about running your own business?

It’s nice to have relative control of your own destiny.

What’s the most challenging aspect?

People think that because I am a musician I just have to turn up on stage and that’s the job done but there’s so much that I have to do behind the scenes to keep work bubbling. There are days I feel like my art suffers because I have to focus so much on other aspects.

Where is your business headed?

As long as people keep buying my music and tickets to my shows I hope to continue blossoming.

How important are online sales?

Every artist needs to eat. The pop-up at the Haods studio is popular and you can book online.

Do you have a five-year plan?

It’s not easy to plan in such an unpredictable environment so I just keep creating and building my fan base.

What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learned?

To toughen up a bit and not take things so personally. It’s not easy for artists because we are sensitive but I have learned to separate the artist from the business. I’ve also learned to value myself. A lot of people ask you to sing for nothing and forget that it’s a job for you. I’ve learned to say no.

What would you advise someone considering going into the music business?

Don’t do it — it’s tough.

What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made?

When I supported Jools Holland at the Royal Albert Hall no one made sure the reviewers got in so I lost my London reviews. That still niggles me as it was the best performance of my life.

What three qualities do you think are most important to success?

Understanding what your product is, presenting it in an attractive way and keeping your eye on the prize.

What’s the secret of your success?

Loving what I do — I think it’s infectious. Being amiable and conscientious. Also surrounding myself with people who are better than me.

How organised are you?

I’m pretty focused once my head is in something but I have a classic artist’s butterfly brain and I hate admin.

How do you dress for work each day?

I’m not gig-ready until the heels are on, so it’s all glam on stage and pyjamas at home.

What can’t you be without every day?

My loved ones but I also need time in isolation to reflect and create. It keeps me sane.

Lunch at your desk or going out?

I’m always out to lunch!

Do you continue to study?

I do my vocal exercises every day and I am always learning musically.

How are you planning for retirement?

What retirement?

Interview by Will Hamilton, intermediary and global marketing consultant