In this episode of Music You’re Missing, host Brendan Jeannetti sits down with Peter Boyd, the Talent Buyer for Boston Calling, to explore his unique journey into the music industry and the behind-the-scenes challenges of organizing a major festival. Peter's story takes us from his college radio days to his current role at one of Boston's most iconic events, all while offering invaluable insights for those looking to break into the industry.
Peter shared that his career path was anything but linear. Starting as a college radio host, he stumbled into the music scene, eventually finding himself bartending at a live music venue in Boston. It was during this time that he began managing bands and booking shows—skills that would later be instrumental in his role at Boston Calling. He emphasized the importance of taking initiative, noting that he started booking shows simply because he was "bored" and felt stuck in the service industry. This entrepreneurial spirit set the foundation for his eventual leap into festival management.
At Boston Calling, Peter and his small team orchestrate the three-day festival, which has grown into one of the city’s premier events. Peter highlighted the importance of preparation, explaining that much of the festival’s success hinges on detailed planning long before the gates open. "If everything is done correctly ahead of time, all you can do is wait for something to go wrong during the event," he explained, underscoring the unpredictable nature of live events.
One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the importance of local talent to Boston Calling's identity. The festival is unique in its commitment to featuring Boston-based artists on its Orange Stage, giving lesser-known acts a platform alongside headliners like Megan Thee Stallion and Hozier. Peter described how booking local talent was a deliberate choice, helping these artists gain exposure while enriching the festival with a homegrown feel. He also stressed that for emerging artists, the key to getting noticed is not just having a strong online presence, but being active in the live music scene—whether that’s through consistent gigging or putting yourself out there.
This year’s Boston Calling showcased Chapell Roan’s rapid rise to stardom. Peter recalled how her main stage set at Boston Calling drew an unexpectedly massive crowd. He noted that while the festival’s team saw her potential early on, even they were surprised by how quickly she connected with audiences. Her performance, he said, mirrored the kind of breakout moments Boston Calling has become known for, giving artists a chance to make an indelible mark on the festival circuit.
For those aspiring to break into the music industry, Peter’s advice was straightforward: be persistent and don’t be afraid to start small. Whether it's managing a band, taking photos at shows, or volunteering at events, the key is to get involved and make connections. Reflecting on his journey, Peter emphasized that success in the music industry often comes from being in the right place at the right time—but more importantly, from being ready when those opportunities arise.
Tune into this episode of Music You’re Missing for more insider tips, stories from the festival circuit, and a deep dive into the creative chaos behind Boston’s largest music event.
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