Today’s friend of the podcast made his foyer into the music world about 20 years ago, kickstarting his talent buying ventures straight out of college for local clubs in Southeast Texas. Starting at 500-1000 cap rooms, he booked shows for the likes of Puddle of Mudd, Sevendust, and Halestorm. Over the years, he’s gone on to work with acts from Willie Nelson and Rascal Flats to Five Finger Death Punch, to the Steve Millar Band. 

 

Operating as a boutique firm, his company (pre-pandemic) books upward of 500 shows per year. In recent years, he and his agency have moved into artists management as well due to their strengths in artist development, touring, negotiations, and much more. 

 

So without further ado, please welcome the co-founder and managing partner of “Rise Up Agency” – a self-proclaimed “unapologetic gear snob” and coffee bean connoisseur – Richard Gandy.