As 2020 draws to a close, we have caught up with Maryanne McMullen, CEO and founder of The Next Music Generation (TNMG), a platform that scouts for raw music talent and offers an outlet and assistance to develop their talent. An aspiring leader, she is also carving out time in her busy life to run for City Council!
Introduction and Vision
Maryanne McMullen spent 13 years in project management honing her skills before starting TNMG as a way to showcase new, upcoming and talented musicians and to connect them with industry professionals like producers and DJs as well as finance and commercial opportunities.
What’s your academic background?
George Brown College Psychology Program 2021. After graduating from the University of Toronto in 2001, I spent 13 years in the provincial government in various ministries before I moved over to the project management world 6 years ago working in the IT space for BMO Capital Markets, TD, Scotiabank and CIBC.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
I love creating and developing projects, but I felt that I wanted to have an impact on my community. I love music but the music industry needs to change, so I created a platform to bring positive impact and to bring about that change for new artists.
What drives you and your business?
I learn best with music and it gives me a creative edge as an entrepreneur. I use my project management skills to help great new artists and I’m inspired to help these talented individuals get the spotlight they deserve.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
Since 2016, I have been fortunate to work with many businesses across the globe and their marketing teams from Telus, McDonald’s, Madas, Stubhub, Taco Bell, and BMW. I’ve worked with their creative teams on the development of TV commercials and print ads.
I’ve been lucky to be asked to participate in industry panels such as Def Jam Showcase and Conference, at the Country Music Awards and at the Hip Hop Awards.
Away from the business, I am part of the selection committee for the homeless and poverty committee for the City of Toronto, and I am using my story to bring social change to my communities. I am now partnered with an Edmonton project that we are bringing to Toronto and we are now seeking leaders in nonprofits to participate in www.influencerforchange.com, part of my City Council mission. I feel you have to walk the walk as well as talk the talk.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Be open to learning, pivot with the times, never be afraid to fail and seek advice if you don’t understand something. Always remember the proverbial phrase “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”.
Website and Socials
The Next Music Generation – https://thenextmusicgeneration.com/
Instagram – @thenextmusicgeneration
Facebook – thenextmusicgeneration
Twitter – @TheNextMusic
LinkedIn – nextmusic