Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Luong.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I began in the music industry covering media for music sites. That is where I began building my network in the industry. On my 20th birthday, I decided to throw a house show in Azusa, CA where I had The Garden, Cosmonauts, The Aquadolls, and four additional local bands. My expenses were $600 and made $1,800 at the door. At this time, I went by “Tiff@Shows” for my photography and a lot of bands began inquiring for shows to my email and social media. The massive amount of inquiries led me to change my career path towards Music Business. I changed my major from Accounting to Marketing Management – Emphasis on Entertainment Industry. During my time in college, I was booking shows at my own home to assist my roommates and I with bills. Lineups for these house shows featured The Frights, Froth, The High Curbs, Surf Curse, SadGirl, BOYO and many more! I began popping up in warehouses and LA venues like The Smell with festivals and touring shows.
Towards the end of college, I began assisting the Talent Buyer of The Continental Room and later on became the Talent Buyer at The Continental Room. The Continental Room was my home for booking for about 3ish years. Today, I book for La Santa and assist with connecting local artists with larger fan bases.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I had friends who have helped me along the way but never really had a collective or organization that has assisted me through booking and setting up shows. I had to go through a lot of trials to master my craft. I taught myself how to set up a PA, use adobe for flyers, email etiquette to inquire booking performers, and everything else that is required to set up a show. I even started a band at one point just so I can know what it was like to be on the other side. I pretty much ran all departments on my own, but it has definitely allowed me to master what I do today with a lot compassion.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Future Legends – what should we know?
I currently go under Future Legends, but not many people know me by that. I am pretty humble as far as not stamping my brand onto events. Many still know me as Tiff@Shows or just simply Tiff.
Today, I book shows at La Santa but the community knows me from connecting sub-communities together and mentoring many DIY collectives and local bands to success. I have walked many collectives and artists through the beginning stages of their music careers.
There are many collectives and local bands that call me “momma Tiff” because of the guidance I have offered them. I feel like my passion for music and being very personable towards everyone I work with has made me stand out from many talent buyers and music managers.
Aside from what I personally do, I also work Box office, production assistant, stage managing for larger scaled events. I can proudly say I have experience in almost every position in the music industry.
What makes me thrive and feeling fulfilled is bands, promoters, and agents will approach me seeking advice or connections. I am glad to know that I am the go-to gal when it comes to finding a connection to a venue or a band. My passion is for maintaining growth and building the music community.
In 2020, people will be seeing Future Legends around more. I plan on branding it and putting out a podcast and offering my services more publicly.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Jenn Bootow – Former Conti Talent Buyer – I got the most experience with her. She taught me how to email and schedule shows. She’s guide me through strategizing filling up a calendar at a venue and balancing what will be beneficial for the venue as well as artists when it came to events.
Haus – my college roommates – They allowed me have at least two house shows a month and invited all their friends to events. They helped with setting up as well as cleaning. The base of my following/show attendees come from their pool of friends who have attended my events.
Jeff Shuman – I assist him today with bookings at La Santa – being able to shadow him through festivals and his bookings has opened my eyes to what it takes to put together events like Tropicalia, One Love, Smoking Grooves and large capacity shows at Yost Theater.
Image Credit:
Michelle Corvino; Eric Robledo
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