Why All the Country And Classic Rock at The Fair? A Booking Agent Responds

Gary Deusner, former longtime agent at Triangle Talent, which books the Kentucky State Fair, sent this response to the various complaints about a lack of diversity, i.e., large amounts of country music and classic rock, at the Fair.

“Shortly after the announcement of the Kentucky State Fair musical line-up, there appeared on Facebook a number of posts “blasting” a local booking company for it’s “responsibility” for a lack of diversity, both ethnic and musical, in the KY State Fair music schedule, that I feel compelled to comment on. I think we all would agree with the importance of musical diversity and variety in the KSF musical line-up. However the frustrations stated in these posts, are somewhat misdirected and, perhaps, a bit short-sighted, I’m afraid. First of all, here is the chain-of-command in the decision-making process regarding the music for the KSF: Ky State Fair Board – Sponsors (Free-music stages and Beer tents, for example) – Booking Company, in that order. It is the job of all to secure the most fiscally-responsible acts with the highest popularity and name-value, and widest appeal to the most diverse demographic possible…a tall order, indeed.

Having said that, I have a few thoughts and (unsolicited) advice to all who posted these frustrations with the musical line-up and/or their acts’ omission from that line-up. Look at your “product” and ask yourself if you are doing everything possible to “effectively market” yourself (or your wishes) directly to the most influential decision-makers. Ask yourself if you are doing everything possible to “position” your product (or your wishes) as one that warrants serious consideration for these types of events. In short…Do not loose sight that it is ART, but remember that it is The Music BUSINESS.

Thanks for listening…”

Gary Deusner