From Led Zeppelin Chases to Britpop Fame: The Rise of a Music Promoter

Conal Dodds is a well-known music promoter who has played a big role in the British music scene. His journey began in a rather unusual way. In the early 1990s, Conal was asked by Oxfam to help raise money for a well in Cambodia. His friend Rob mentioned that Robert Plant, the famous singer from Led Zeppelin, lived nearby in Monmouth. Conal and Rob decided to try and get Robert Plant involved. They kept visiting his house and asking for his help until he finally agreed. This determined effort marked the start of Conal's long career in live music. He soon realized he had a talent for organizing events and was encouraged to become a promoter. He started by booking shows at a small pub in Hereford, then moved on to larger venues, and eventually joined a national promotions company. Conal says that promoting is not an exact science. It is a creative job where you learn by doing, not by following a manual.

During the Britpop era of the 1990s, Conal worked with some of the biggest bands of the time, including Oasis, Pulp, and Echobelly. He was involved in organizing major concerts, such as Oasis's legendary 1996 shows at Knebworth Park, which are still remembered as some of the most important events in British music history. Before reaching this level, Conal learned the ropes at grassroots venues. He started as a club promoter, where he was taught how to handle people and audiences. He also learned how to make money in the business and later joined Midland Concert Promotions, where he gained experience working professionally and on a larger scale.

In 1995, Conal moved to Bristol with his wife Lee. He wanted to support local artists and venues, believing that if he did not create something special in Bristol, someone else would. This led to his involvement in launching Bristol Sounds, a festival that has become a key part of the city's cultural life. Bristol Sounds takes place at the Lloyds Amphitheatre and features a mix of well-known and up-and-coming acts. Conal makes an effort to include smaller bands he has worked with over the years. He believes that building relationships is crucial in the music industry. He has worked with bands like Super Furry Animals and Ash since the early 1990s and values these long-term connections. Conal says that understanding people is central to being a successful promoter. Every artist is different, and part of the job is figuring out how to work with each one.

Conal also talks about the challenges facing the live music industry, especially at the grassroots level. Running a music venue is tough, and not every business will succeed. He believes that the public plays a big role in whether venues survive, and without these small venues, there would be no live music industry. He urges the government and local councils to support grassroots venues, as they are essential for developing future stars. Bristol Sounds is now in its 12th year and takes place over several days each June. Conal loves the unique setting of the festival, with the water, old buildings, and the historic St Mary Redcliffe church in the background. He recalls a memorable moment when 3,000 people were swinging their t-shirts in the air during a concert. Looking ahead, Conal hopes Bristol Sounds will continue for many more years, possibly reaching its 50th anniversary. He is still passionate about his work and wants to keep supporting music in Bristol.