Kaitlyn Pearce from Audio Network, B&T Awards’ official music partner, tells us why they’ve decided to throw their support behind the event and how to cure an epic hangover.
Adland was in full swing on Friday, 4 November, at the 2022 B&T Awards, presented by YouTube. The sell-out event welcomed over a thousand of you to the Hordern Pav for a darn’ tootin fun and frivolous night, all to recognise the cream of the industry’s crop.
But we couldn’t put on the industry’s favourite event without our FAB-U-LOUS sponsors, like our beloved friends at Audio Network.
Here we chat with Audio Network’s APAC Head of Branded Content & Advertising, Kaitlyn Pearce.
B&T: Why did Audio Network decide to support the B&T Awards?
KP: We love a party as much as the next person, and this seemed like the one not to miss!
No, but seriously, we work alongside the advertising industry daily. I get so excited every time I see an ad that features one of our tracks – my housemates are sick of me saying, ‘that’s one of our songs!’. So, I can only imagine how exciting it is for you to see your spots go out into the world.
Because of that, it is only fitting that we celebrate all your hard work, right alongside you, as always.
B&T: What was your favourite part of this year’s B&T Awards gala night?
KP: Seeing everyone looking even more spectacular than usual was fabulous. Even better not to have to juggle a mask alongside our champagne glasses this year.
It felt like everyone was so happy to be out of the house, and of course, the ‘will she (Chris Taylor’s expecting wife)? Won’t she go into labour?’ had us on the edge of our seats all night.
B&T: Audio Network sponsors the Production Company award. In your opinion, what did this year’s winner, FINCH, represent?
KP: FINCH has had an incredible year producing some truly beautiful content. They kept themselves busy making thoughtful content and having an impact whilst letting loose with some super fun spots.
This is exactly what we all hope to achieve at work – creating something that makes a difference and having some fun along the way.
B&T: What message do you have for the finalists for Production Company who lucked out at the awards this year?
B&T: It’s so cliché, but you should all be proud of yourselves. We certainly are. You all created some pretty special work this year; otherwise, you would not have made the shortlist, so we tip our hats to you. I’m a big believer in celebrating the nominations as much as the wins!
B&T: Apart from supporting one of the best awards in the world, what other ways does Audio Network recognise and celebrate the advertising industry’s achievements and success, be they big or small?
KP: As I said before – you might not realise, but I am constantly celebrating the ad industry from my couch – there is no muting of ad breaks in my house.
But on a slightly bigger scale, we are all about celebrating our clients’ success. Our global teams are constantly attending events and even hosting our own. I hope to attend one of the infamous Audio Network Cannes parties soon!
We are also big on supporting our clients through stressful times as well as fun times. We will be there with you in the times when the spot was meant to go live yesterday, and you haven’t even thought about the music. I promise we’ll find you the perfect track.
B&T: What’s next for Audio Network?
KP: We are all looking forward to a nice summer break after a big year. In 2023 we will be putting a particular focus on locally produced music, and we are excited to deliver this to you all soon.
We will also be hosting a party of our own to kick off the year in February, so keep an eye out for your invites.
B&T: Finally, the B&T Awards was a raucous event, as always. What’s your best tip for nursing a hangover?
KP: Hashbrowns. That is all.
Thank you again to Audio Network, all our other fabulous sponsors, and The Chaser’s Craig Reucassel and Chris Taylor, who did a stellar job steering the ship as MCs.
Massive congrats to Howatson + Co for taking home the Grand Prix. And to new dad, Chris!
Check out the complete list of winners at this year’s B&T Awards (a huge congrats to you all, BTW) via THIS SPECIAL ONLINE BOOKLET.
Until next year!
