Normally, we hook you up with the hottest DJs, producers & vocalists linked with the Born To Dance family tree, this time though we thought we'd do something a little different... At a time when illegal downloading is rife, piracy is a crime & club land is taking a hit, we thought we'd catch up with fellow Brightonian & all round industry wizz Steve B from BigFishLittleFish to get the inside scoop...

What does the B stand for?!
"It's 'Burton', though some people probably have a different word for it!"

Can you describe your job in one paragraph?
"Manager, publisher, writer, facilitator, dictator, motivator, advocate and dreamer."

You’re a self confessed jack of all trades, but in what area of your work would you say your passion lies?
"Being in studios with creative people and helping with ideas is what I really love. I guess it’s what the Americans would call being an "executive producer"."

The music industry is ever expanding & changing, can you tell us what you think it takes to make it in the industry and how did you get into it?
"You have to be pretty driven and very thick skinned. You really have to get used to constant knock backs especially in the UK industry which is very trend driven. It also helps to be adaptable and inventive on both the musical and business side and you have to break a few rules every now and again. I also think honesty is a great trait to have, and it’s really appreciated in this business. I got into it from being in a band and wanting to see the other side of things. It all started with answering a small ad for a work experience kid at a management company in London. That job lasted nearly 14 years and then I set up Big Fish Little Fish!"

So, publishing, we know it's a mine field but can you break it down into layman’s terms for us??
"Yes, it seems to be a great mystery to many people, including a lot of publishers! Essentially its looking after the copyright in writer's songs. The 'looking after' part includes protecting their rights and exploiting the copyrights to try and make the writer's money. There are various income streams from the physical reproduction of the song (payable as mechanical royalties), performance ( radio /TV /internet / live plays) and the licensing to accompany visual media ( known as synchs) such as movies, TV and video games. I think that explains it..!"

What in your career has been your biggest milestone so far and what would you like to achieve?
"Starting my own company after 14 years of working for other people. I’d like to be involved in more hit records in any way, shape or form and see an act I manage fill a stadium."

The last decade saw the rise of the DIY music, digital media and downloads against the fall of Vinyl and label investment. Where do you think the music industry is heading in this decade?
"Certain parts of the industry are doing well and always will, but recorded music is taking a battering obviously. I'd love to think we can come up with a solution to the whole piracy thing but my heart of hearts tells me that recordings will be more or less a "free" commodity and income streams will come from other areas."

Rumour has it you manage Mason (“Exceeder”... ) what does 2010 hold for him & can we expect any surprises?
"Yes, planning big things for Mason. Loads of great records to come including his wicked collaboration with ( Run) DMC & Sam Sparro. They ( Mason are two guys) are probably the most talented dance producers I've worked with and they are creating all sorts weird and wonderful material. Also think their own label, Animal Language will build into something really cool. We are only five releases in but its already feeling good and the music is very fresh and out on its own. In terms of surprises, there'll be a few for sure, as we are determined to take a different stance with everything and not do the obvious."

You've recently been working with the guys at Brighton's Born To Dance Records & you hooked them up with an awesome vocal from Neve. As a relatively new name on the scene, what else can we expect from her?
"Yes, Neve is pretty talented and is a local ( Worthing) girl. She has a good team around her and is really hard working so there's everything to play for. She seems to be getting her songs cut left, right and Chelsea at the moment, which is always a good sign."

Are there any other big things happening for you on the horizon?
"Lots of big records basically, oh and a holiday!"

What was the last gig you went to, willingly?
"Band-wise it was Skindred - I love a bit of the heavier side of things."

Finally, were you Born To Dance!?
"Definitely. Even when I'm sat down I'm constantly jigging. Incurable case of "the funk"!"