The biz's brightest new talents tell their stories. This week it's the turn of CAA agent Bilge Mordern.
How did you break into the music business?
I started promoting shows while studying at university when I was 17, and was lucky enough to put on sold-out gigs for artists including Bastille, James Bay, Foxes and Bear’s Den. While I was in my third year of university, I interned at Communion Presents for six months, where I started working with all of the agencies. That’s when I knew I wanted to be an agent. I always saw CAA as the pinnacle, and when they introduced a two-month internship programme that summer, I jumped at the chance to get my foot in the door. Emma Banks gave me a shot, and three years later I became an agent.
Who are your music biz idols?
I really look up to [CAA agent] Nigel Hassler and, if I can be half the agent that he is in the years to come, I’ll be very pleased with myself! He is probably the nicest agent in the business and definitely one of the most selfless. Somehow, he balances being an incredible agent, a fantastic dad and a mentor to many around him, including myself.
What’s the best thing about your job?
It has to be the magic of watching an artist perform in front of a room full of fans who’ve looked forward to a show for months as it’s their release or escape for a couple of hours. Playing a role in making those moments happen is what it’s all about. I recently watched my client Sam Fender play the first of his two sold out nights at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire and it was my favourite show that I’ve seen in that venue. There wasn’t a single fan sitting in their seat during the show and the entire floor was one big mosh pit. You could tell everyone in the room was so excited to see him live.
What’s your proudest achievement so far?
All I wanted for years was to be an agent at CAA, so getting promoted last year was very special. I listen to the artists I work with every day and the fact that I get to work with clients that I’m a fan of makes me proud.
What’s the biz’s best kept secret?
I’ll just say that @shittyar Instagram account gives me life!
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