Matt Werth has done it all – from founding and running record labels, to supervising for television and film, to programming events, to managing artists and cultivating global networks. In this conversation with Katarzyna Stuczyńska, co-director of the Annex booking agency, he’ll reflect on his journey and share insights into the current state of the music industry. Expect anecdotes about helming independent labels in three different decades and the importance of preserving musical heritage, alongside practical lessons drawn from years of hands-on experience. The discussion will explore how to maintain a balance between building genuine connections with audiences and addressing the market and marketing demands of running a business that serves creativity at its core, as well as how to navigate platforms and communicate meaningfully with followers. Most importantly, Matt will speak about maintaining a grassroots ethos in today’s shifting musical landscape – and why the right to remain off-grid may be more vital than ever in the age of burnout.