Ash McGregor hosts triple j's Home & Hosed, where she champions the best local music from around Australia.
Ash is one of the many speakers who'll attend BIGSOUND 2024 in Brisbane; this year's conference will reflect on the ongoing disruptions within the music industry, providing a platform for innovative conversations and creative breakthroughs.A multi-talented radio presenter, producer and programmer, Ash has helped discover many emerging artists, given them their first play on national radio and shared their stories with the nation. Her love for music has resonated with artists and audiences at home and abroad.
She's worked internationally in music, radio and live events at MTV, Nickelodeon, Global Radio London and at Australian radio stations NOVA, 4ZZZ, and Sea FM. Ash is a true local music fan and a much-loved and trusted industry voice.
What do you do and why do you love it?
I curate and host Home & Hosed each weeknight, the Australian music show on triple j. This show shines a spotlight on up-and-coming acts, often giving artists their first spin on national radio, celebrates classics and builds community within the Aussie music scene.
I love this job for so many reasons. Growing up, my community was the local music scene in Brisbane. I was going to gig after gig, making friends along the way; I lived and breathed that era of Brisbane.
I know this show has helped young people find passion in music, develop friendships in their local areas and discover their new favourite acts, and that fulfils me. For my lifestyle and hobby to become my job – it's a dream come true!
Why should people in the music industry attend BIGSOUND?
I often describe BIGSOUND as a summer camp for musos. You leave with handfuls of new friends, wild stories, and an appreciation for music you wouldn't have heard otherwise.
2024 is my sixth BIGSOUND, which I first attended when I was fresh out of school, living in Brisbane. Each year I met people who would further my career, and I honestly don't think I would be doing my job if it wasn't for those connections.
What are the rewarding aspects of working in the Australian music sector?
The tight-knit community, the camaraderie, the people – I feel very lucky to work alongside some of the kindest, most passionate people I know; also the fact that this country is bubbling with talent! It makes each day when I search for new music stupidly exciting.
How vibrant is the local scene compared to other parts of the world?
The music scene in Australia is so vibrant! I'm always hearing of a new local act that everyone is becoming obsessed with, and it warms my heart.
What are a couple of challenges currently facing independent artists in Australia?
It is more important now than ever to support your local music scene. From the enormous costs of creating music, putting on live shows, and selling merch to how oversaturated the marketing space is – it's tough to make a living in this climate.
On top of that, not only are you trying to create music that cuts through, but you are expected to be a world-class videographer/ editor/ content creator to build an audience. Gone are the days of mysterious musicians who leave their personal life to the imagination; we now expect to know everything about our favourite acts.
With the digital media landscape saturated with so much content and people constantly scrolling through their feeds, how do indie artists make sure they stand out from the pack (not just with their music but also marketing, etc)?
There are so many tips that are easier said than done, especially if the online space isn't second nature.
There can be a lot of talk about how to beat the algorithm, but I genuinely mean it when I tell acts to remain authentic and post what feels real to them. It may be little moments on tour, filming yourselves in writing sessions, or if you do want to jump on a trend, do it! An audience can tell if you're unauthentic; don't push it if it doesn't feel right.
A piece of advice for emerging talent looking to build their brand both locally and nationally?
Always, always, always build your community first. I have discovered so many acts through their fans or seeing people post about their music. Go to gigs, meet people, meet fans, play shows, collaborate, put your community first.
What's your favourite BIGSOUND memory from past events?
Oh gosh, where to start! There are many gigs that come to mind. Tones And I playing a pop-up show back in 2019, G Flip taking on the Unearthed Showcase in 2018, even many years ago when I was underage and attended Little BIGSOUND in 2013 and watched a young Wafia play a set.
Also when I first began in the industry and would work at BIGSOUND hosting the networking events each year. This was my opportunity to be in the room with people I looked up to, and to be honest is where I first met some of my closest colleagues.
I remember meeting the music team of triple j and being so enamoured by them, it was my dream to work there, so it feels quite full circle to return to BIGSOUND for a second year as a member of the triple j team.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
Network. It's not the sweetest of lessons, but it does make a difference. Show up, make at least one new friend, and who knows where they may help you down the line. This is such a small industry and being a part of the community is not only stupidly fun but rewarding.
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
It definitely took time to find a work/ life balance; for anyone in the music industry, you can easily burn the candle at both ends. Nowadays, I love my work-life balance! I work with people I genuinely love, am re-energised at gigs, and actively find time to lean into my non-music-based hobbies like surfing, pilates and cooking.
How do you define success?
Personally, my success is measured by whether I am creating content that I would love to consume in this world. Discovering music is not easy these days, and Home & Hosed is a streamline way to find the cream of the crop.
I find success in people listening to the show, from listeners on the textline telling me they've discovered a new act they love and knowing that I can actively make a difference to what can sometimes be a pretty harsh industry.
Ash speaks as part of BIGSOUND panels (Brisbane) Nine Times Five 4 September and Triple J Servicing Sessions 5 September.
