This year the line-up is as mind-blowing as ever, viewers across the world will be able to see performances by Bruno Mars, Coldplay, LMFAO, Jessie J, Snow Patrol, David Guetta, Justin Bieber, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and he sensational Lady Gaga.
With this incredible line-up you may wonder who on earth could pull this event together. The answer is a young chap called Richard Godfrey. Richard has been the Executive Producer of the awards since 1996. We spoke to him about this year’s ceremony and the work which goes on behind the scenes...
How do you think this year in music has been and which acts have stood out for you?
It has been an interesting year in music. Quite a bit of good stuff came out this year thanks to reality television shows such as The X Factor and there have been terrific USA acts over the past twelve months. We hope to cover some new acts at this year’s EMA’s, but of course we also have to keep our line-up mainstream as well. As for the acts that have stood out for me I think Adele has had an amazing year and I also caught LMFO live a few months ago who I thought were incredible.
Why pick Belfast for this year’s EMAs?
We have been talking about holding the awards in the city for quite a while. The Odyssey Arena (where the EMA’s will be held this year) was opened back in 2001 and it’s an amazing venue. The city itself has also recently been voted one of the best nights out in the United Kingdom.
What are the disabled facilities like at the venue and the after show parties?
The Odyssey complies with the northern regulations, which we take very seriously. The two after parties are taking place in hotels across the city, both of which comply with disabled regulations.
How far in advanced do you chose the country and start booking artists to perform?
Well, we are already making plans for next year as we have to bear in mind venues get booked far in advanced and artists are already planning their tours for 2012.
What is the process of telling an artist they have been nominated for an award?
After the nominees have been chosen the guys in our music team contact the artists via their management companies and record labels. This year we are introducing new awards for the artist with the best fans and a word-wide award where we hope to find local heroes. Artists then use their websites to clock up votes from their fans.
Who has been the most difficult artist to confirm since you took this role on board?
We are fortunate as because the awards are so popular and a great reputation it isn’t too hard to secure an artist to perform. We have to make sure their schedule applies and make sensible arrangements. Normally artists perform gigs near the venue around the date of the EMA’s and most artists ask us if they can perform.
Finally, If you were able to create an award for an unknown artist who would you give it to and why?
Well, if I could give an award to anyone it would be Neil Diamond. But as far as an unknown artist I would give it to my son, Alfie Godfrey who plays in a noisy rock outfit.
The 2011 MTV EMA will be broadcast at 9pm Sunday 6 November on MTV networks and watch out for a review from the evening next week on ABLE2UK.
