Dr Hughie Brown

Profile

I joined the University of Leeds from Australia in October 2022.

In Australia I researched and taught at several institutes of higher education across topics including creative industries, politics, ethics, business, and communication. My PhD (awarded in 2011 from QUT’s Creative Industries Faculty) investigated the business models available to self-publishing creatives using 21^st century technologies and I continue to research best practice in building self-publishing music careers. I write, record, play and publish music when time allows. 

in 2018 I spoke at TEDx QUT about the importance of development the cultural industries from the grass-roots up: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_QvY9C1JDY&t=4s

I am passionate about supporting grassroots cultural practices, particularly music. I was Brisbane Regional Coordinator for the Australian Songwriters Association from 2013-2020 and placed in the finals of the Australian Songwriting Contest. I also founded Magpie Studios in Armidale to help develop emerging local songwriters and musicians.

Responsibilities

• Program Manager, BA Global Creative Industries
• Director of International Affairs, PCI

Research interests

My research interests centre on the the value(s) of culture, especially with reference to creativity. Adopting a Cultural Economics perspective, I am working towards a Unified Theory on the Value of Culture: what it is, how it works, and why it matters. My current research specifically looking at four things (in order of increasing specificity):

1. The value(s) of culture and creativity
2. The practice(s) and management of creativity
3. The music industry – especially self-publishing musicians
4. Songwriting as a means to professional and creative development

Qualifications

• PhD (QUT)
• University Medal (Journalism, UQ)
• BA (Hons 1) in Journalism (UQ)

Professional memberships

• Nashville Songwriters Association International
• Australian Songwriters Association
• Association of Cultural Economists International

Student education

I am Programme Manager for the Bachelor of Global Creative Industries. My teaching philosophy seeks to steer this programme to be authentic, industry-focused, and culturally diverse.