Graduate Spotlight – Lyle Scougall

Looking back at your time at Riverside Music College, what key lessons or experiences helped shape your journey into music management and running a record label?

The key lessons I’ve learned are the importance of utilising your network and taking advantage of everyday opportunities as they arise. I met our first client at Riverside, which led to the launch of a full management company built around that initial opportunity.

What inspired you to start Manaña Music Management, Bold Cut and Mañana Electronic, and how did your studies at Riverside prepare you for these ventures?

This journey was a combination of seizing opportunities and a deep desire to achieve more.

Around the same time, I met my business partner, Nathan Dunphy, while working at the Glasgow Hydro. Being surrounded by arena-touring artists was incredibly inspiring for both of us.

From the outset, our vision has been to build a full-service music company spanning management, records, and publishing—leading to the creation of Mañana Music Management, Bold Cut Records, and Mañana Electronic.

With regard to Riverside specifically, my background in sound production has given me expert knowledge in recording, producing, mixing, and mastering—a skill set that is invaluable in the day-to-day running of both our management company and record labels.

As a music manager and label owner, what are some of the biggest challenges you face in today’s industry, and how do you navigate them?

The biggest challenge is cutting through the noise—how do you get your music heard?

We pride ourselves on taking a strategic, authentic, artist-focused approach, ensuring that every release has a clear vision while covering all angles on our end to get the job done. Our commitment is unwavering: we do whatever it takes to elevate our artists and their music.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists and music professionals looking to break into the industry?

Take action before you are ready, because you will never be ready.

What exciting projects or future plans do you have for Manaña Music Management, Bold Cut and Mañana Electronic in the coming year?

Across the full group of companies, our mission is to provide progressive, resilient, and transparent music services for tomorrow’s superstars.

This mission drives everything we do, shaping our plans for the year ahead. We are focused on expanding our roster, developing innovative strategies to support our artists, and strengthening our presence in both established and emerging music markets. Through Mañana Music Management, we aim to continue nurturing talent with a hands-on, artist-first approach. Bold Cut Records is all about championing fearless artists and releasing bold, uncompromising music, while Mañana Electronic continues to carve out its place in the electronic music scene.

We are committed to evolving alongside the industry, embracing new technologies, and ensuring that our artists have the resources and support they need to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.