Barry Dickins is a renowned British music agent and co-founder of International Talent Booking (ITB), a leading agency in the live music industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Dickins has represented some of the most iconic artists in music history, including Tom Petty, Diana Ross, Cher, Joni Mitchell Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Paul Simon.
Early Career
Barry began his career in the 1960s, working with some of the world’s most prominent acts, such as The Who, Jimi Hendrix Experience, and Otis Redding. His early involvement with these legendary performers cemented his reputation as one of the most formidable agents in the music industry.
Founding of ITB
Joining ITB in 1978 with his partner Rod MacSween, the agency quickly became a significant player in the live music scene, representing a diverse roster of artists and promoting tours worldwide. Under Dickins’ leadership, ITB has continued to maintain its status as a premier agency, adapting to the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Notable Clients
Throughout his illustrious career, Barry has worked with a plethora of renowned artists. His current client list includes:
Bob Dylan: Barry has represented Dylan for over four decades, managing and managing tours and live performances all over the world.
Neil Young: Neil and Barry’s relationship spans almost 60 years, and barry has worked with him in many incarnations, such as Promise of the Real, Crazyhorse and more recently The Chrome Hearts
Paul Simon: Barry has been instrumental in managing Paul Simon’s tours outside of North America, working with him for over 20 years including the Simon and Garfunkel reunion show at Hyde Park in 2004.
Industry Influence
Barry’s impact on the live music industry extends beyond his role as an agent. His insights and experiences have been shared in various forums, including interviews and panel discussions. He was recently the subject of a special edition of IQ which celebrated his influence and significance in the music business for the past 60 years.
Music industry expertise runs deep in the Dickins family.
Barry’s daughter, Lucy Dickins, is a prominent figure in the industry, serving as the Global Head of Contemporary Music and Touring at William Morris Endeavor (WME). She represents high-profile artists such as Adele, Mumford & Sons, and Stormzy. Barry’s son, Jonathan Dickins, is the founder of September Management and manages artists including Adele and Jamie T. Rex Orange County and Little Simz.
Barry’s dad Percy was one of the founders of the NME, contributing to what is now widely known as the charts!
His brother Rob ran Warner Records, bringing the roster up to date by signing some of the biggest pop acts and contributed to the resurgence of Rod Stewarts and Cher’s careers.
The family’s contributions have certainly significantly shaped the contemporary music landscape.
Legacy and Recognition
Barry’s dedication and contributions to the music industry have earned him recognition as one of the most influential figures in live music. Winning numerous accolades over his career.
His ability to adapt to industry changes and maintain strong relationships with artists has solidified his legacy as a pioneering music agent.
