Meet Angela Cortes | Artist Management at Criteria Entertainment

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angela Cortes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angela, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
There are many things that make me happy and for which I am grateful every day. Being together with my family, going on road trips with friends while listening to music, watching the sunsets, and eating sushi, lots of sushi! Yet, I think I am happiest when I attend a live show and witness connection between the audience, the artist and the songs, feeling them (and myself!) being present in the moment and experiencing the power of music. It is especially gratifying when it is a show from one of artists I work with. It’s the moment when I realize that all the hard work we do is worth it and it reminds me why I wanted to work in the music industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love music, and it has been present throughout my life. This led me to think, why not work in something I love? However, in my home country, there were very few options to pursue a career in the music industry, and for this reason, despite the great obstacles of emigrating and leaving my family and friends, I decided to travel to Los Angeles. Thanks to a scholarship, I was able to study Business and Music Industry at USC.

The years at university were a mix of challenges, learning, and achievements. It was during that time that I had the opportunity to meet Professor Loren Medina. Thanks to her guidance and recommendation, I had the opportunity to do an internship at Criteria Entertainment, the company where I currently work and where I have grown professionally as a day-to-day manager for our management clients.

My studies and career in music have presented personal challenges such as leaving behind family, friends, and comforts of home. Professionally, I have had to face moments of high stress, anxiety, and pressure. However, there is no doubt that I have enjoyed the ride. I have had the opportunity to meet wonderful people, learn about new cultures, grow personally and professionally, and all of this because I decided to step out of my comfort zone.

My years of working have allowed me to develop skills such as being able to work under pressure, multitasking, and having emotional intelligence. Furthermore, they have allowed me to strengthen values: responsibility, respect for the work of others, and honesty above all. The most valuable lesson I have learned is that no matter how talented we are, we will always need people to support us, accompany us, and teach us. Teamwork is essential in order to succeed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d be thrilled to kickstart my day with a hike at Griffith Park and enjoy the breathtaking view from the Observatory. Then, a trip to the beach for the remainder of the day.

When it comes to food, a stop at a sushi restaurant is a must. Additionally, visiting “Sabor Colombiano,” a Colombian restaurant, which holds a special place in my heart. Their food always made me feel close to home.

In the evenings, catching a show organized by Sofar Sounds would be top of my list. I love the intimate atmosphere they create between the artists and the audience. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover new talent and connect with fellow music lovers. Wrapping up the night with some dancing at Breakroom 66 in Korea Town would be the perfect finale to an amazing day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
“I want to give a massive shoutout to my parents. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their constant love and support, which made it possible for me to study abroad and embark in my professional career.
Additionally, I want to give a shoutout to Diana Rodriguez, the CEO of Criteria Entertainment. She’s not just my boss; she’s been an invaluable mentor to me. I have the utmost admiration and respect for her, and I’m incredibly grateful for all the wisdom and insight she’s shared with me about the music industry.”

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/an.cortes?igsh=eDk4ZnQxM2tiNDRm&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-cortes-313289133