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Astral People is one of Sydney’s most influential independent music companies, known for a multi-faceted approach to the industry matched by an expansive and forward-thinking taste. Formed after a late-night dinner at Dimitri’s Pizza in 2011 by directors Tom Huggett and Vichara Edirisinghe (alongside Lee Danilewitz), Astral People has grown into a diverse team spanning management, touring, events, publishing, and recorded music. Across every arm, the company remains anchored to its founding principles of community investment and trust in its vision. Artist-focused at its core, Astral People’s management roster spans some of the most progressive voices in Australian music. Their family of artists includes Cosmo’s Midnight, Winston Surfshirt, Wave Racer, GL, Milan Ring, and Collarbones; DJs and producers Ayebatonye, Basenji, Memphis LK, moktar, Sam Alfred, Tseba, and Willo; rapper Arno Faraji; and audio engineers George Nicholas and Doug Wright. The scope of the roster reflects a philosophy built on long-term development and creative trust. That same sensibility defines Astral People’s touring output. First gaining recognition by introducing grime to Australian and New Zealand audiences in the mid-2010s, the company has since become a touring staple across the region. In 2015, Astral People merged with Handsome Tours, helping to build one of the largest independent touring rosters in Australia. This includes artists such as Ross From Friends, Fred again.., Bicep, 100 gecs, Injury Reserve, Arlo Parks, Masego, Stormzy, AJ Tracey, Dave, Yussef Dayes, Kokoroko, Alfa Mist, Freddie Gibbs, Yung Lean, and DJs including Jyoty, Shanti Celeste, Folamour, John Talabot, Moxie, and Yung Singh. Beyond touring, Astral People’s boutique events arm has curated festivals and shows across the country, from OutsideIn Festival, Last Dance NYE, and Summer Dance, to stages at Splendour in the Grass, Strawberry Fields, Vivid LIVE, and Red Bull collaborations. In 2017, Astral People launched their publishing arm in partnership with BMG, followed by Astral People Recordings in collaboration with [PIAS], becoming the first Australian co-operative label under the global umbrella. With over a decade dedicated to nurturing emerging scenes and championing new voices, Astral People remain leaders across Australia and New Zealand. Fans first and industry operators second, they continue to find opportunity in overlooked spaces, shaping the future of music through curiosity, conviction, and care.
