A Lancashire DJ and music producer has said the Covid pandemic gave him the ability to concentrate on making new music, after he was forced to return from travelling the world.

Ollie Crowe, 22, was living his dream in Asia when the pandemic struck, but on returning to the UK, said lockdown helped him focus on his music, enabling him to produce 10 new songs.

He said: “I have been able to completely concentrate on making new music, experimenting with different ideas and reaching out to a variety of record labels.

"I’ve created over ten new songs in the last 12 months, collaborating with artists and singers from all over the world.

"As travel hasn’t been an option, we have used Zoom to write songs together.”

Ollie, from Blackpool, had an early start in the business, producing and being a DJ from the age of fifteen, with his single Voices becoming a dance anthem.

Electronic Dance bible, We Rave You, predicted Ollie would be at the “forefront of future house for years to come”.

So after talking to Blackpool Council’s business support team in 2018 Ollie turned his passion into a career and 10 million streams later, he’s gone far beyond the ‘up and coming’ stage.

Earlier this year, Ollie released On My Mind, a collaboration with Dallas artist Iva Rii, which has now been signed to label, Soave Records.

However, music isn’t just Ollie’s passion - it’s his business.

Massively increasing his fan base brought with it some business decisions to make, which he took with the support of Blackpool Unlimited, the council’s business advice and support service.

He continued: “It’s a resource I know I can always turn to if I need advice.

“Having recently rebranded, I’m currently in the process of protecting and trademarking my logo, which Kriss Wilson from Blackpool Unlimited recommended I do.

"That’s helped my brand be seen by more people.”

Ollie’s advice to other artists wanting to make their mark in the industry would be to find a network of producers you can get advice and feedback from.

He added: “Get a good online presence. Social media is just as important as the music.

"I have also found that record label contracts are a minefield, so invest in some good legal advice as and when needed.”

Blackpool Council’s business advice team offer a friendly, professional service for Blackpool residents looking to start, establish and grow a new business.

The advisors have a wealth of experience and are able to cover all the key issues faced by people when setting up a business from scratch.

As well as initial advice, the team continue to support new entrepreneurs along their business journey.

Cabinet member for business, enterprise and job creation, Cllr Mark Smith, said: “Ollie’s success story shows what can happen when you take that first step and get help from experienced advisors.

"I hope that it will encourage others who want to start their own business.

“It doesn’t matter what your interest is, with help there can be the potential to turn it into a business.

"It is great to see that Ollie is doing so well, he has a real talent. We all wish him well for the future.”

Find Ollie at olliecrowe.com, on Spotify and across social media.

For help turning a passion into a business, talk to the specialist team at the Enterprise Centre, Lytham Road on 01253 477147 or visit www.blackpoolunlimited.com/start-up to find out more about how they can help.

Lancashire Telegraph: