Born To Be Wide presents Record Label Models: Deal or no deal?
Thursday, October 22, 2026
19:00 - 23:00 PM
Leith Arches (map)
Panelists will explore the evolving role of record labels, examining how deals, artist contracts, and business models are adapting to today's music industry. From traditional major agreements to independent partnerships and distribution-first models, the discussion will unpack what can be offered to artists, what to consider when evaluating a deal, and how to navigate an increasingly dynamic and diverse music ecosystem.
Speakers: To be announced
Host: Olaf Furniss (Born To Be Wide/Wide Days)
Event Info:
TIMES
19:00 (GMT) - Doors Open
19:30 - 20:45 - Panel
20:45 - Late - DJ sets
TICKETS
£4.50 - £6.00
VENUE
Leith Arches
6 Manderston St, Edinburgh EH6 8LY
ADDITIONAL INFO & ACCESSIBILITY
The venue is accessed via a covered courtyard, the entrance is on street level and accessed via a cobbled entranceway at the same gradient as the street. Seating is available throughout the entire event with a good view of the stage.
The accessible toilet is also located on the same level as the entrance.
If you require any additional support please email hello@wideevents.co.uk in advance and one of the team will be happy to assist.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
Olaf Furniss
Founder, Wide Events CIC
Director, Music Tourist
Olaf Furniss is a journalist and founder of Wide Events, an organisation which hosts music business seminars and Scotland's music industry convention and showcase Wide Days. He reports for a wide variety of media including the BBC, The Scotsman, MusikWoche and IQ, and has written for Billboard, Music Week, Audience and Fono Forum.
Olaf has worked as a consultant for music industry conferences including Sonic Visions, by:Larm, Reeperbahn Festival, GoNorth, Berlin Music Week and Canadian Music Week, organising and/or moderating over 200 panels in the past five years. His interest in music tourism formed the basis of a Masters in Music: Innovation & Entrepreneurship and he has given guest lectures at universities in the UK, Norway and Germany.
Aaron Main
Label Manager / A&R, Paradise Palms Records
Aaron Main is a producer, label manager and owner of West Port Oracle, and has spent over a decade working with independent and emerging artists through Paradise Palms Records. As the label’s A&R and manager, he has overseen releases, artist development, distribution and international partnerships across a catalogue rooted in Scotland’s leftfield electronic and alternative music scenes. His work focuses on building sustainable routes for independent artists, from early-stage development and release strategy through to distribution, licensing and international opportunities. Alongside the label, Aaron works as a DJ and curator, with recent projects including Hidden Door, Kelburn Garden Party and V&A Dundee’s Scotland Fashion Now.
Tom Doyle
Director of Streaming & UK Label Manager, Hopeless Records
With over 15 years experience in the music industry Tom is currently the Director of Streaming and UK Label Manager and Hopeless Records / Fat Wreck Chords where he has overseen releases from the likes of Neck Deep, The Wonder Years, New Found Glory, Waterparks and more.