Meet Ariella Nelson

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ariella Nelson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ariella below.

Hi Ariella, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

From a young age, I always knew my purpose in life would be rooted in music. Ive always felt a deep, intrinsic pull towards it; It’s been the constant thread weaving through my experiences, connecting me to my family and friends, and guiding me through both the best and the worst times. Music has always defined the different phases of my life, shaping who I am today. It has been more than just a passion; my identity. There was never any debate or hesitation about my career path—I was destined to work in the music industry. This connection to music has driven me to pursue a career where I can not only express myself, but also share this profound connection with others.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

As an A&R Manager at Funktasy Records, my role is both dynamic and deeply rewarding. I have the incredible opportunity to discover and nurture new talent, guiding artists through the creative process and helping them realise their full potential. What I love most about this job is the blend of creativity and strategy—it’s amazing to watch an artist grow from an initial idea.
The most exciting aspect right now is the launch of our new radio show, Funktasy Sessions, where I’ll be stepping into the role of host. This platform allows us to showcase emerging talent and connect with our audience in a fresh and engaging way. Building up a character for myself as a host is an important extension of my A&R responsibilities, adding a personal touch to our brand and fostering deeper connections with listeners. This new venture not only amplifies our artists’ reach but also brings a new dimension to my role, making it a very exciting time to be part of Funktasy.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Keen Ear for Talent: Recognizing potential in artists is essential. This means not only hearing the quality of their music but also seeing their potential for growth and how they might resonate with different audiences.

Strong Communication & interpersonal Skills: Building and maintaining relationships with artists, producers, and industry professionals, and providing constructive feedback. Focusing on active listening, practice empathy, and work on articulating your thoughts clearly and respectfully.

Resilience: The music industry is highly competitive and often unpredictable. Resilience is key to navigating setbacks and challenges. I try to maintain a positive mindset, learn from failures, and stay adaptable.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to be curious and proactive. Seek out learning opportunities, such as internships and just get your foot in the door. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek feedback. Stay connected with the industry by attending events and networking with artists, PR and agents. Most importantly, remain passionate and dedicated—your love for music will drive you forward and help you overcome any challenges.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

The Untethered Soul by Michael Alan Singer has played a pivotal role in my personal and professional development. This profound book offers insights that have helped me navigate the complexities of life and the music industry with a clearer mind and an open heart. One of the key concepts from the book is observing your thoughts without becoming attached to them, which has taught me to maintain inner peace amidst the industry’s pressures. Another valuable lesson is the importance of letting go of past experiences that no longer serve us, allowing me to stay focused and positive in my career. Lastly, the book emphasizes living in the present moment, a practice that has enhanced my creativity and connection to the music I work with. The Untethered Soul has not only enriched my personal growth but also positively influenced how I engage with artists and the creative process at Funktasy Records.