New Zealand-born promoter and agent Harry M Miller has represented Lindy Chamberlain, Judy Moran, the Melbourne gangland killings wife who is now up on murder charges, Barry Humphries, Alan Jones, and Big Brother contestants.
Although he's been based in Australia since 1964, his promotion career was always trans-Tasman and controversial. He brought the Rolling Stones, Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar to New Zealand.
Known as “the agent to the stars”, Harry talks about growing up in New Zealand. He learned the skills he needed to be successful in life here, during a difficult childhood.
“You just have to get up and get on with it” he says.
Harry became involved with the Howard Morrison Quartet when working at a record company. During his time there, he travelled to America to bring Louis Armstrong over to New Zealand to be his promoter.
Needing a change of pace, Harry moved to Australia and said “us born in New Zealand don’t take no as an answer”.
He talks about all the huge stars he began working with including the Rolling Stones, Judy Garland, and Ella Fitzgerald. He especially adored Ella and says “Ella was fabulous, gracious, and wonderful”.
Harry gives three three tips about “securing the deal” as a promoter.
“Have a good product, don’t bullsh*t about price, and have a client that can give what you promise” he says.
A hectic lifestyle encouraged Harry to take up meditation. He says its “a matter of looking at yourself, meditation, clearing your mind, and pressing a stop button”.
He always makes sure to ask himself the question “Who am I?”
