Rock Monsters Romania

The growth and success of a woman artist are significantly influenced by the team that supports her music. Behind every thriving artist, there is a dedicated team of professionals who contribute their expertise in various aspects such as management, promotion, production, and creative direction.

Alina Bălan is just one of them. Since November 2022, she has been the PR Manager of Global Records, an independent, full-service record label from Romania, that has in its catalogue world-known artists like INNA, Antonia, Irina Rimes, or The Motans, as well as new sensations like Erika Isac, Eva Timush, rareș, EMAA, and more.

Alina completed her bachelor’s studies in Communication and PR in 2022. Since then, she has experienced rapid growth in the music industry, supported by her participation in the Women in Music Romania mentorship program as a mentee in the same year, and the internship she had at Mastering The Music Business. Currently, she is enrolled in a master’s program at the Center of Excellence in Image Studies.

Besides her job at Global, she also writes extensively about Romanian music. She is currently a writer at the Romanian publication Zile și Nopți, but also publishes her articles in other Romanian cultural magazines like Curatorialist.

I met Alina in 2022 at Mastering The Music Business when she was an intern at the conference. I noticed her energy and fast-thinking skills that propelled her forward to where she is now. She was also present at MMB 2023, but this time as a moderator of the conference panels and talks, which shows how significant she has become in the Romanian music industry.

We wanted to learn more about Alina’s career growth and her role model in the industry, so we conducted a special interview.

What are the things people should know about you before reading this interview?

That I am currently working as a PR for Global Records, that I love writing about music and conducting interviews, this is how actually my journey in the industry started and that I love concerts (surprise! 😉)

Which woman inspired you from the beginning? What have you learned from her as a model?

Since I met Anamaria Hâncu in 2022, she has been my mentor and role model. She is one of the people who encouraged me before I landed my very first proper job in the industry, and I am thankful for all the lessons she taught me. The most important thing that I have learned from her is to stay true to your values and maintain a warm attitude, even in situations and encounters that may evoke negative feelings.

Why have you chosen the music industry? Where does your passion come from?

I’ve always wanted to be part of the industry. I studied music for a good part of my childhood and all my teenage years, aspiring to become an artist. However, over time, I realized that being in backstage at a concert would be even more fulfilling for me. My first visit to Mastering the Music Business was decisive because it was there that I made the decision to pursue a career in communication within the music industry.

Was there a moment when another woman warned you about the challenges you might face in the music industry because you’re a woman? What was your reaction?

I have the privilege of being part of the wonderful community of Women in Music Romania and engaging in discussions about various topics. Fortunately, the stories never revolved around physical aggression but rather focused on societal perceptions of women and the tendency to associate certain roles more with men than women. I was already aware of these issues, so I wasn’t surprised, as it’s easy to observe them in the world around us.

Have you faced any challenges that could only happen to women in this industry? Can you give us some examples and explain how you overcame them?

I believe that there are people who are trying to intimidate you because you are a young woman, but I also think this can happen to anyone new in any industry. The key, in my opinion, is to present yourself as confident yet humble at the same time. Always stay on topic, try to control your emotions, consider what other people say, but don’t let them define you. Take what you need from every person that you meet.

Have you ever felt pressured to present yourself in a certain way because of your gender?

At some point, I thought that perhaps, because of my position, I should dress more formally, more intriguing, or feminine to present myself as softer. However, I don’t believe that you should limit yourself. I think that personality, the way you speak, and simply being a genuine and polite human being should be more important.

What changes would you like to see in the industry to make it more inclusive and welcoming for women?

I think the primary focus should be on women supporting each other, and I’m thrilled to see the Women In Music Romania community growing larger. It feels like a haven to me. As individuals, we should strive to be more humble, open to meeting new people, and foster friendships within the industry.

How optimistic are you about the future of the music industry in terms of gender equality?

The outlook for the future appears promising. I see women growing increasingly confident in themselves, unafraid to embrace risks, being in high positions because of their skills. These developments are pivotal.

Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

Being part of Beach, Please! in 2023 was a blast! It reminded me how much I thrive on the adrenaline of events and how awesome it is to meet and connect with new people.

Are there any projects or collaborations you’re currently working on that you’re excited about and would like to share with our audience?

I’m thrilled about the incredible momentum that Erika Isac and her song “Macarena” are gaining. It’s exactly what our society needed, and I’m grateful that I am a part of the team.

Looking back on your career journey so far, what are some valuable lessons or insights you’ve gained that you wish you knew when you were starting out?

Work never ends but remember to prioritize your well-being. Take breaks and get the rest you need to shine even brighter.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in music? But to the ones that are reading this interview?

As a junior, I’m eager to find balance, but I always remind myself to stay true to what’s important to me. I value listening to others but also holding onto my own opinions. It’s crucial to stay curious, always seeking out new experiences through seeing, hearing, and reading.

If you want to learn more about social media, PR, and even what questions to ask in an interview, you should follow Alina on Instagram and keep an eye on her posts.

Stay tuned for another interview with an amazing woman tomorrow!

Text by Radu Mihai

Interview by Ionela Pleșan and Radu Mihai