Major record label enters the concert-producing biz
Proof live concerts are a lucrative undertaking: MCA Music Philippines, one of the few remaining mainstream record labels in the Philippines, has joined the concert promoting bandwagon.
For its first offering, MCA is bringing in British boy band The Wanted for a concert at the NBC Tent, Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City on September 14.
Ilacad says the company will focus on producing concerts by acts exclusively signed to the company.
Dreams of lower ticket prices
The label has a stellar talent pool. Aside from The Wanted, it also home to Maroon 5, Rihanna, Madonna, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Bon Jovi and Paul McCartney.
Its local roster includes Richard Poon, Sabrina, Nyoy Volante, Pupil and Domino.
"This should be very challenging for us since it will be the first time for us to do this as a team," said MCA President Ricky Ilacad in an exclusive interview.
Still, Ilacad and his colleagues have had a head start, having promoted shows in the past. Strategic Label Manager Chris Hermosisima was the station manager of the defunct radio station NU 107, while Events and Artist Manager Sammy Samaniego used to be with Third Line Entertainment, the group that handled Eraserheads during its final years.
Of his dreams, Ilacad said, "I'd like to see one day na bumaba ang prices ng concert tickets."
The Wanted: ‘Always wanted to go to Manila’
In the meantime, Max George of The Wanted said in a phone interview, "We've always wanted to go to Manila so we really feel excited about it."
The Wanted is promoting its debut album which contains their hit songs "Chasing The Sun," "Glad You Came," and "All Time Low." The group hopes to release new material in November.
Asked about what he feels about The Wanted being labeled a boy band, George said it “is a lot harder than being a band.” He should know as he plays the bass.
Still the group is pumped. "We'll play instruments and show more our fun side. We're definitely in good mood to go elsewhere these times after the success of the London Olympics which our country hosted. Proud to be British," George said.
