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Charese Fruge’ (@MCMediaonline) Talks To Lana Abruscato
August 23, 2022
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Lana Abruscato is National Manager of Promotion and Touring for Arista Records. “I’m so lucky to be able to work records at all radio formats across the country, while simultaneously working closely with promoters and management on the touring side of the business,” she says. She started in the business in 2005 as an assistant promotion director at WHTZ (Z100)/New York.
“I don’t ever remember a time in my life when I didn’t want to work in radio,” says Abruscato. “Z100/New York was my hometown radio station, and as a kid all I ever said was ‘one day I’m going to work at Z100.’ So, I made it happen. I remember applying for an internship and after a few days, I still hadn’t heard back. Being young and inexperienced and not understanding how internships worked, I showed up at the station and asked to speak to the promotion director. When the receptionist asked who I was and if I had a meeting, I told her that I didn’t, but I applied for an internship and I didn’t hear back from anyone, so I was there to follow up in person. The rest is history.”
“In 2009, I jumped to the label side of the business, working at Epic in NYC and eventually moving to LA to work with Columbia,” says Abruscato. “Then, in 2012, I moved to Nashville and was at in2une for 4 years before heading back to NYC and starting my own business. My company was called ‘Road To Radio’ and we specialized in bringing artists to stations for labels and managers that didn’t have the staff to do it on their own. This eventually led to three years of tour management before I accepted my current position at Arista Records and moved to Chicago in 2019.”
“Everything about this job is exciting! I get to travel the country and work with amazing and talented artists,” says Abruscato. “My biggest accomplishment thus far is starting my own business back in 2016. And if it weren’t for the support of my friends and family, I wouldn’t have been able to do it. Confidence and believing in myself were also key in taking that step.”
Lana’s success wasn’t always easy, “Something I face a lot is people thinking I’m younger or less experienced than I really am. Thankfully, I don’t let it bother me, and usually just make light of their comments. I know my experience and my qualifications. And when I get the job done, those who questioned me do too!”
Lana’s experience, confidence and success translate in her advice for other women in the industry. “Stand up for what you believe in. If you feel passionate about something, stick to your truth, even if it’s not the popular opinion,” she says. “Don’t let others make you feel inadequate or doubt yourself. There’s something really special about succeeding and proving the non-believers wrong,” she says. “Secondly, it’s not only okay but feel encouraged to ask for help. The knowledge and experience I have today come from asking the great mentors and teachers in my life for help over the years. Finally, when you feel qualified, pass that knowledge along. Don’t hesitate to help those coming up behind you.”
“I will say this about the business, no matter what you prepare for, you’re never fully prepared! This job always keeps you on your toes, thinking on the fly. There’s been countless times I’ve been traveling with an artist and our flights were cancelled or a snowstorm hit, and you miss a full day of promo. Or even one time, the airport lost all our luggage, instruments, and equipment. You just have to roll with the punches.”
According to Lana, life in general keeps her up at night, but she does find balance. “I hang with my dog Cali and binge TV shows (if you’re a cop drama, I’m already your biggest fan).” And you might be surprised to find out, “I never grew out of my emo phase,” she says. “And if emo’s not your thing, I’m ready to challenge anyone in Seinfeld trivia. I’m very good, so bring it on!”
To sum it up, Lana says about her current situation, “I love that I get paid to do what I’m passionate about. My Arista family is extremely supportive, and with them by my side, I feel like I can do anything.”
Follow Lana Abruscato on social media @lanaabruscato
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