Music brings people together, and for some it can even change their life and set them on a new trajectory. So says Glenn Aure, Artist & Label Relations rep at Play MPE. “Being the youngest of 6 kids, I was exposed to many types of music from my brothers and sisters. I learned to like and appreciate Soul, Funk, Top 40, Rock and Jazz music growing up.” That makes his progression into working with Urban, Rhythm and Top 40 formats at Play MPE a good fit.
A natural career path
“I learned how to play drums at age 9. I also learned how to DJ and mix (records) at age 12. DJing is what actually jump started my career in radio. I had won a DJ battle thrown by 106 KMEL San Francisco. They gave me a weekly show which I then used to propel me up the ladder, to become Music Director and then Asst. Program Director along the way.”
Taking off and living the dream
“I spent 10 years at 106 KMEL San Francisco during the 1990s, where I learned the aspects of radio programming. I got to work with some great artists and helped break a lot of new music during that era. I later got offered to work at Capitol Records as VP Of Promotions in LA. It was a great opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. To work for Capitol Records and to be in the iconic Capitol Tower Building.”
Why Play MPE?
“First off, we have an amazing staff. I love working with them on a daily basis. We truly are like family. Play MPE is a known and trusted brand, so it just makes my job that much more satisfying to work with colleagues from record labels and radio. To be on the forefront in helping labels get their music to the radio is so vital and we provide that at Play MPE. The platform we provide for labels and artists is a necessary step if you want to compete in today’s music industry. We continue to grow Play MPE globally, helping bring musical content to the world!
I am thankful and proud that I’m helping build our Urban & Rhythm initiatives for Play MPE. To be able to continue working with labels I’ve known for years, while being a part of a vital step in music delivery and promotion is a great feeling…it was a no brainer for me!”
Coming up with a strategy
“I’ve been fortunate to have radio programming experience as well major record label promotion experience through my career. I’ve always applied what I learned there to today’s job at Play MPE. Advise clients on what formats to consider, what songs may work better for radio, when to go after radio promotion, and any other pertinent info I can help provide our clients.
Promotion is a vital step for any label or artist looking to get their music to the masses. Anyone can track down names and contacts to radio programmers and other key recipients. However, coming from radio, if I’m not familiar with the sender, I probably wouldn’t even open up the email. Since Play MPE is a trusted platform with radio and record labels, it’s that extra assurance that your music gets into the hands of radio and gives it a better opportunity from a radio blast to be opened and discovered.”
Career highlights
“As a former radio program director and record label executive, I’ve been blessed to have been given artist record plaques for my help and or involvement with that artist. I have treasured platinum and gold plaques from Lauryn Hill, Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, Puff Daddy, Wu Tang Clan, Snoop Dogg, Mary J Blige, and others during my music career.”
Words of wisdom
“The music industry is a tough industry to succeed in. You have to be committed, work hard at your craft, and accept that there may be a lot of no’s before a yes. Don’t be discouraged. Believe in yourself and your music. Then use Play MPE to get your music out there!”
