Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Markey
Hi Julie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve had a deep love affair with live music since my teenage years in the mid-80s. I’d sneak out of the house to see icons like Michael Jackson, Prince, Luther Vandross, New Edition, Run DMC, Grandmaster Flash, and so many more. Growing up in the Detroit suburbs, it wasn’t exactly the norm for kids my age to be so immersed in the scene, but I couldn’t get enough of it. My first concert was with my family to see Journey, and it’s something I’ll never forget.
In 1997, I moved to Hilton Head Island, SC, and spent 17 years on a wild musical ride, seeing everyone from Widespread Panic to Snoop Dogg, and everything in between. One festival, in particular, stands out—Langerado in Sunrise, Florida. Not only did I get the chance to rock out on stage with the Flaming Lips dressed as a giant banana (a story I’ll tell anyone who’ll listen), but I also met the guys from Wilco, who dedicated “Theologians” to me that very day. To top it off, later that night, the guys from Matisyahu walked through our campsite—talk about a surreal experience. Music has always been my gateway to unforgettable moments, and it’s what continues to fuel my passion to this day.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Anyone who books live music will tell you it’s a tough job. Much like selling anything, it requires a balance of persistence and positivity. And above all, you have to truly believe in what you’re offering—whether it’s the talent or the venue, conviction is key to making it work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work as a live music booking agent in the Chattanooga area, specializing in matching talented musicians with the right venues.
In addition to booking directly for venues, I focus on creating long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships between talent buyers, venue managers, and performers.
What sets me apart from others is the lack of a dedicated booking agency in this region, giving me a unique position to serve both sides of the industry with personalized, hands-on attention. I’m committed to fostering meaningful connections and ensuring that every event I facilitate is a perfect fit for everyone involved.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Funny you ask—just yesterday I was reminiscing with my 28-year-old nephew about one of my favorite childhood memories. Every summer, all the neighborhood kids—of all ages—would gather after dinner to play kick-the-can. We’d play for hours, well into the dusk, when it was so dark you could barely see, but you could hear the distant calls of parents shouting for their kids to come home. Summers in Michigan were something special. I’m truly blessed to have grown up in such a beautiful state. That said, I’ve been in the South longer than I lived up north, and I’ve definitely come to love it here too.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.redtailbooking.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redtailbooking
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redtailbooking
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-markey-6b3528345/
- Twitter: https://x.com/redtailbooking
- Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/home/R8aL_zTZM2S5keUzorfaVg/
