Music mogul Pete Waterman on ageism in the music industry and the effects of streaming ahead of his Birmingham show
Despite being responsible for more than 500 million record sales worldwide, and having worked with some of pop's top acts including Kylie, Steps, Rick Astley and more, music mogul Pete Waterman now says there is a 'huge issue with ageism' in the industry - meaning there's 'no chance' of him returning.
"It’s like they think that when you get to 60 your ears suddenly fall off your head," says the 71-year-old Midland icon.
"They’re all 30 year olds.
"The record business is not famed for its great business sense.
"It’s like ‘what do old people know about modern music?’. Yeah right.
"Some people might want to change their lives at 60 and retire, but not everybody.
"Because you’re over 50 you must be old fashioned.
"Does anybody want to be seen working with a 70-year-old bloke?
"It’s cool for The Rolling Stones, but not for a writer and producer."
The former Pop Idol judge, Walsall FC aficionado and railway enthusiast produced a total of 70 number one hits while with songwriting trio Stock Aitken Waterman. Prior to the formation of the team featuring Mike Stock and Matt Aitken, Pete had produced an array of hits; his first number one being Pass The Dutchie by Musical Youth in 1982.
But Coventry-born Pete, who hosts a show on BBC WM every Saturday, says he is now too busy with his radio and railway commitments to take on work with artists.
He is, however, carving out time to talk to Birmingham audiences about his colourful life with an intimate show at the city's Town Hall on June 13.
Looking at the modern day music industry, Pete believes it has become increasingly difficult for UK stars to compete with those in America due to the internet and the vast difference in population between the two nations.
Not only that, but he says the vast majority of investors in artists are American, meaning they hold all the financial power.
