Music Promoter Beka Bishop Advises: Don't Try to Be the Smartest Person in Every Room

She loves how artists are redefining VIP packages for fans

Beka is the founder of Fantom Presents, an event promotion company in Nashville. She specializes in digital marketing, social media management and project guidance. She serves as the community coordinator for The Digilogue (Nashville chapter) and is the marketing chair of the Women’s Music Business Association (WMBA).

We spent two minutes with Beka to learn more about her background, her creative inspirations and recent work she’s admired. 

Beka tell us …

Where you grew up, and where you live now.

I am originally from Lafayette, Ind., and currently reside in Nashville.

Your earliest musical memory.

Some of my earliest memories involve the amazing concerts my parents would take me to. Seeing Kiss and Mötley Crüe at a young age helped me make the decision to work in the music industry. I fell in love with developing brands and live music.

Your favorite bands/musicians today.

Kip Moore, Chappell Roan, BigXthaPlug and Avery Anna. I’m loving the new music coming from Nashville, specifically Brooks Huntley, Ryan Boey and Sarah Gray.

A recent project you’re proud of.

I partnered with Brooks Huntley to help him release The Five Stages of Grief. Bringing light to mental health through music is one of the most brilliant ways to explore humanity. 

One thing about how the music world is evolving that you’re excited about.

I love that live music is coming back, and I have loved watching artists redefine what a VIP package looks like. For example, Mod Sun paints and draws artwork for everyone who purchases a VIP package.

Someone else’s work, in music or beyond, that you admired lately.

I’m amazed watching what Big Loud is doing with their artists. Their tasteful marketing is inspiring.

A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.

Life with Marianna is one of my favorite podcasts because it reminds me to have balance in my personal and professional life.

An artist you admire outside the world of music.

For me, James Turrell expanded what art could look like.

How musicians should approach working with brands.

People can sense when a post isn’t genuine. Work with brands you are passionate about—especially if you already use their products. 

A mentor who helped you navigate the industry.

I learned that if you’re the smartest person in every room, it’s time to find different rooms. If it wasn’t for Israel Vasquetelle, Drew de Leon, JJ Farrell and Dre Slater, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in the music business.

I’d be happy being a waitress on the beach—as long as there was live music.