With this series, we bring together the experiences and perspectives of women and non-binary people in the music business. In 2025, we take a look behind the scenes and focus on the people beside the musicians. Regardless of quotas, so-called categories or classifications, it takes 100% of us to stand up for feminism to have the greatest impact.
What kind of support have you received in the course of your career? Where would you have liked (more) support?
Kerstin Breyer: At the beginning of my career, there were no institutions that supported us women, and I never actively sought support. I went my own way and took on the challenges that came my way. Still, I often feel that it would have been helpful if there had been targeted programs and organizations that advocated for women in music. Structural support would be crucial to achieve true equality and increase our visibility in the industry.
“Structural support would be crucial to achieve true equality and increase visibility in the industry.”
How and where have you gained experience in the music industry?
Kerstin Breyer: I gained my first experience as an intern at Hitradio Ö3 before moving to major BMG for ten years. I started there in a Junior PR position and rose to the Head of Marketing and PR over the course of ten years. In 2002, I finally took the step into self-employment. Through these various positions, I was able to experience the challenges and opportunities in the industry first-hand. I learned that I not only have expertise, but that I can also make a valuable contribution.
What were your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
Kerstin Breyer: One of the biggest challenges for me was the feeling of not being taken seriously or valued as a woman. I remember moments when I wanted to hold back, but I learned that it is crucial to raise your voice. It’s been a long road, but through perseverance and sticking to my convictions, I’ve always found new ways to overcome obstacles.
Did you have role models around you? What role models do women in the music industry currently have?
Kerstin Breyer: My mentors Heidi Spacek-Sidon, Tina Funk, Nora Spitzer and André Luth were and are important role models for me. Their experience, thoughts and advice have helped me to find my own path and assert myself in the industry. I am also very lucky to work with wonderful artists and writers such as AVEC, Sodl, Die Mayerin, Alex Beer, Poxrucker Sisters, Julia Steen, Tina Naderer, Sandra Hesch and Ina Regen. These artists impress me with their courage, their authenticity and their commitment to important issues. They show how crucial it is to live our individual voice and inspire me and many others to actively and confidently participate in the music scene.
“Solidarity is our greatest strength.”
How can we support each other and promote solidarity in our professional environment? What can you pass on to the next generation?
Kerstin Breyer: Solidarity is our greatest strength. We should actively support each other by sharing our experiences and being inspired. It would be important to use the current platforms where we can motivate and strengthen each other. I would like to pass on my message to the next generation: Never hesitate to raise your voice and let your light shine. We can make a difference if we stick together and stand up for each other.
“We should support each other to make the music industry a more inclusive place, where we can realize our dreams.”
What questions do you get asked that a man would never be asked?
Kerstin Breyer: I am/was often invited to panel discussions with the subordinate clause “women’s quota”. That’s quite funny when you consider that I have over 30 years of expertise in PR and marketing. Spoiler: I didn’t accept the invitations, of course. It shows me how strongly the perception of women in the industry is often still shaped by clichés. Such discrepancies highlight the inequalities that exist and show how important it is to address these issues and actively fight for change. In summary, it is crucial to share our experiences and voices. We should support each other to make the music industry a more inclusive place where we can realize our dreams.
Kerstin Breyer is the owner of Wohnzimmer Promotion & Records.
Translated from the German original by Arianna Alfreds.