With 32 years of experience in the artist & production management field, Avi Maor has a rare point of view on the inside of Israel’s music business. He started at the bottom and moved up the corporate leader as a PR agent for Helicon Music, label manager in Universal Studios, and back to Helicon as the manager of their international department. 5 years ago, he suffered a major health crisis of which he struggled to recover. Bravely, he emerged back on his feet with a new perspective. He became an independent artist manager, using his remarkable ability of interpersonal relations to couch, consult, and help artists reach their full potential. Shortly after he lead local rock giants group “Hayehudim” back to a sold-out concert in Caesarea Amphitheater after 8 years of absence, he is here to answer some of our most mind-provoking questions.
By Noa Faran
1. What was the last song you listened to? And what do you most expect listening to next?
The last song I listened to was ‘The Eagle Flies Alone” from a band called Arch Enemy. The lead singer is doing the best female-growling I have ever heard! The song that I’m waiting for is by singer-songwriter Rotem Laviv (whom I happen to represent) and the name of the song is ‘Ba Veholekh’ (coming and going)
The last song he listened to
2. What do you want to be when you grow up? How would your 10-year-old self react to what you do today?
The most significant thing I would like to do when I grow up is to inspire people and help them achieve their goals, because it’s a beautiful way to achieve mine. In regards to my 10-year-old self – I think he would have been very proud!
3. What’s the career highlight you’re most proud of?
I’m proud of coordinating and making it possible for Israeli metal band Orphaned Land to be the opening act for Metallica’s concert in Israel in 2010. Kirk Hammett then became really enthusiastic about their music, and recommended them as his band of the year in the american “Metal Hammer” magazine.
4. What is the one thing we should pay more attention to as human beings?
We should pay more attention to empowering and supporting one another. I remember a quote by Snoop Dog from an interview, he said: ‘I’m surrounding myself with better people than me, so I can get better and better”, and I try to do the same.
5. For right now, What or who inspires you the most?
I will try to be humble but also honest: lately in my life, I find my own path and my own choices inspiring.
6. What do you most enjoy spending money on?
Sport equipment, especially new bicycles (:
7. What is your superpower?
The power to believe in myself and others.
8. If you could go back to anytime in history, where would you go?
With Spartacus during the days of the Roman Empire. Or with Christopher Columbus when he arrived to America.
9. What would be the title of your memoir?
Did it my way
10. Currently, what is your biggest challenge?
To push the artists that I manage to the greatest achievement in their career.
11. What is your most irrational fear?
To be disappointed by people I trust and rely on.