Dean 'Team Midas' Maynard
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Interview by Carl Marsh - May 2015
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So Dean, how did you get to become and then end up where you are today in talent PR? And what acts are you currently working with, besides those on BGT 2015?
It all started in 2006 when we picked out Leona Lewis from her first audition, she went on to win and it all started from there. We also championed One Direction, long before their huge fame. Now after a successful couple of years, acts are now approaching us on a regular basis. We are currently working with a host of great talent, Lydia Lucy, North East (our new girl band) Luna Wilson, Charley Monroe, North Road and many more. I also host an unsigned show on www.whyradio.co.uk When it comes to your acts, or deciding what acts to sign and promote, what do you look for, and no doubt you are always looking for that 'next big thing'? Talent and likeability are two very obvious answers but you are potentially going to spend a lot of time, with the acts and you have to get on. It is not all drinking champagne and VIP dinners, the real truth, is that it is hard work, very hard work. No doubt at times you may have to say no to some acts, this must be the hardest part about being in your business, and how do you prepare yourself for it? That is the hardest part of my job, yes I am a businessman but I am also a people person and I know how much it will mean to these artists. Sometimes though, cruel to be kind is the best answer, especially to those who can't sing, who think they can. You have a great track record in 'predicting' who will make it to the finals of such talent shows as The X-Factor, Britain's Got Talent and The Voice, I sense that you could give Simon Cowell a run for his money but seriously though, if any of those shows came knocking at your door for a new judge, would you be tempted? I have so much respect for Simon and I have a lot to thank him for, without his shows, I certainly wouldn't be running Team Midas. I would love to be a judge on one of the big shows. I honestly think (and I am not being arrogant) I could help find them, the next big thing. My record speaks for itself. Maybe Simon is reading this interview, and I know he worked flat-out to get where he is today, and therefore never giving up on his wish to succeed, so what advice can you offer to any acts out there that need motivating, if perhaps using him as an example? Hard work, hard work and hard work. You can and will take a lot of knocks in this industry but if you truly believe in yourself, stay loyal and be nice, doors will open. Perhaps you yourself don't get much chance to read, but as it is something I think young people especially should be doing, and seeing as you mentor a lot of young acts, so why should they read? And has reading helped you have a different outlook on life? I read a lot of positive thinking books, as in making sure my mindset is right. A positive mind creates positive results. If you had to choose a favourite book, what would it be and why? The Face of Fear by R.J Torbert. I am a huge fan of the Scream film franchise and R.J Torbert is not only the the director of licensing at FunWorld (they own the Ghostface copyright), he is a very good writer. I know it is and has been audition time for The X-Factor, and seeing as you raved all about last years winner Ben, from I think it was June! Will you be getting behind and predicting this years winner too? Yes, we have a few people already in the audition process, so fingers crossed for an X Factor double. The next 12 months, what do you hope and plan to happen with yourself and Team Midas We have just launched a record label and as well as looking to continue our reality TV success, we are also looking to edge into the American music market. No doubt things make you angry, so what does? People who want to be make it in this industry, but who are not prepared to put the time and effort in. Hard work equals success. Team Midas are proof of that. And what makes you sad? Really good singers, who do not get the chance, they deserve to shine. Last question Dean, if you were an animal, what would it be and why? And I would ask Simon Cowell the same question too, so it will be good to see what you say! I love cats, absolutely adore them. Cats are a lot more affectionate and caring than people give them credit for and I will always have a cat, wherever I live. Dean @Team_Midas |
Occupation: Music/Talent Manager
Country: UK 
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