Dutch Agents Launch Echo Live Agency

Hugo Berends and Bart van Haare have launched Echo Live, a Dutch booking and talent agency designed to tap into the expanding live music market. Echo Live will operate as both an agent for its roster of artists and as a promoter, organizing its own events and shows. Berends previously worked as a programmer at the pop venue De Pul and as a booker at Benz Agency and Doomstar Bookings. Van Haare’s background includes roles at Buma Cultuur, Double Vee, and his own agency, Under My Wing, in addition to a stint at Doomstar Bookings. Echo Live’s mission is to provide support for both artists and venues, aiming to help develop artists’ careers on a broad scale while catering to the needs of venues and festivals. “The Netherlands has a very rich music landscape, with a wide range of venues and events beyond just the large festivals,” Berends said. “There is increasing cross-genre programming, where big names and niche acts are presented side by side. This diversity in the sales market makes it challenging for artists to find the right booking agent. With Echo Live, we aim to fill that gap.” Echo Live has already a prominent Roster with several artists, including Alcest, Blue, Chubby & The Gang, Edwin Evers Band, High Vis, Hockey Dad, Rowwen Hèze, Shawn James, Sowulo, and Tusks.