Beats Learning
Beats Learning is the podcast exploring music industry careers beyond the stage.
Hosted by Ben Davenport, each episode features a long-form conversation with someone working behind the scenes in music, uncovering what they actually do, how they got there, and what it is really like.
From labels, publishing and artist management to events, rights, royalties, marketing, media, education, technology and more, Beats Learning is here to make music industry careers more visible, understandable and accessible.
If you love music but are not sure where you fit in the industry, this podcast is for you.
Beats Learning
EP014 – Matt Smallwood: Leading the Scene – A Career in Electronic Music
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In this episode, we sit down with Matt Smallwood, a leader in the electronic music world and Head of Music at Club Class, overseeing the direction and programming of The Cross. With years of experience shaping line-ups, supporting emerging talent, and helping build respected platforms in dance music, Matt shares what it really takes to lead in a fast-moving, culture-driven industry.
This conversation explores how electronic music scenes are built, sustained, and evolved, from underground energy to large-scale brand execution.
🔥 What you’ll learn in this episode:
🎧 What it actually means to be Head of Music for a club and events brand
🏢 How electronic line-ups are curated and talent is developed
🪩 The realities of building and maintaining club culture in the UK
🚀 Advice for DJs, promoters, and future music leaders looking to make impact
📺 Watch now and subscribe for more real conversations with the people working behind the scenes in the music industry.
📌 Explore Club Class: https://www.club-class.co.uk
📌 Discover The Cross: https://www.thecrosslondon.com
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