Voyage Tampa sat down with co‑founder Aaron LeSage for an extended conversation about the origin of The Music Bureau, what it took to launch a live‑entertainment company in the middle of an industry‑wide shutdown, and the philosophy that still shapes every booking we send out today. The interview originally ran in their Exploring Life & Business series; we've republished it here in full.
Hi Aaron, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The Music Bureau was born with a simple vision; streamlined music booking with an emphasis on delivering premium client services. To create an agency that took a different approach, it takes a unique team with a passion to understand the needs of both the buyer and the artist.
The vision started with Cliff Brown and Aaron LeSage, who were both working within the Tampa music scene for 10+ years and were weekly inquiries for live music and DJ bookings for Tampa‑based event companies and venues. Sparked by the frequent opportunities, Aaron approached close friend Taylor K. Flom (FWDthinkers Music) with a plan to bring in his skill set as a local producer and A&R to form a partnership group and company foundation.
While launching during the pandemic was a challenge, it helped inject a tenacious attitude into the company culture. Adapting to the changing industry environment, the business shifted into a multi‑legged operation; this was achieved when TMB core approached Dann Druen to enter the company on a partnership level. With his added business acumen and experience, TMB set out to continue building on earlier successes. Leaning on Cliff's background as a Grammy award‑winning music producer, TMB shifted the leased flex office space into a recording studio in the heart of Historic Ybor City. This allowed the company to operate through an unprecedented time for entertainment companies.
Utilizing hybrid‑style partnerships with innovative groups, like AW and PostCard Inn, launched the company into conversations of creative consultation and large event production.
The group looks forward to continuing to grow The Music Bureau into other markets from album production to booking logistics for tours in order to provide great music and production support to other markets nationally.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We started our company in 2020, in the midst of an entire entertainment industry shutdown but adapted and survived to see rapid growth in 2022.
We've been impressed with The Music Bureau, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Music Bureau focuses on Live Music and DJ Booking and Event Production/Coordination for any size event including all weekly programming needs, large stage activations, music festivals, corporate celebrations, and private parties. The goal is to create a seamless experience for our client's guests and patrons while providing a streamlined working environment for our artists and staff.
Our experienced staff discerns instrumental styles, aesthetics, and the personality of sound to carefully match each of these characteristics to craft a memorable experience. This added emphasis on attention to detail breeds uniquely curated shows with distinct regard to detail. Music has the power to heal, bring joy and inspire. With this in mind, we believe that music is a gift and a tool to uplift and serve others. Our company has a culture built around a relentless drive, a strong moral compass, and an unshakable commitment to our clients and artistic partnerships. We strive toward customer service excellence and take pride in providing services to plan and operate some of the best events and musical experiences in Tampa/Central Florida.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
We are highly organized, and experienced in marketing, sales, operations, and different aspects of the music industry. We have been working with musicians and also talent buys and venues representative. We understand both the needs of a client and an artist's perspective.
Continue the conversation
Want to talk through your event with the same team featured in the Voyage Tampa piece? Browse our live bands, DJs, and solo musicians, or reach out at Booking@bookmusicbureau.com and a specialist will respond within twenty‑four hours.
