ATLANTA — When Georgia State’s School of Music planted the seed for its student-led music distribution and sync licensing company in 2022, MTM Standard bloomed into one of the university’s most vibrant student engagement programs. And Gianna McLeggan was there from the get-go.
One of the founding student members of MTM Standard, McLeggan invested her time in working with student talent, developing contracts, and producing and marketing special events, all while working toward a Bachelor of Science in Music Management with a minor in Hospitality Administration.
“As soon as I heard about the initiative, I was so excited to have such a unique opportunity to get real-world industry experience while still being in school,” McLeggan said. “I’d always had to go out to seek that experience, but for once, it came to me and my peers.”
MTM Standard co-founders and School of Music faculty members Al Thrash and Ben Yonas guided McLeggan, who was part of the initial business management team that laid the foundation for MTM Standard. She was involved with brainstorming the terms of artist agreements and connecting with distribution partners.
McLeggan also played an integral role in MTM Sync Meetup events, which invited top music supervisors from around the country for a weekend of music industry activities. She assisted with producing the events, hosting, marketing and promotions, social media takeovers and served as a panel moderator. If that wasn’t enough, she led the charge as head of community engagement for Atlanta’s local music scene.
“Gianna is a dynamic force, blending boundless energy with a deep passion for event planning, marketing and the music industry,” Thrash said. “With her assertiveness, diverse talents and strong networking abilities, she’s a rare gem with a bright future ahead."
Raised in Conyers, Ga., McLeggan grew up listening to GSU’s Album 88 Radio, which would later influence her choice to attend Georgia State. What sealed the deal and was non-negotiable was an opportunity to pursue a degree at one of the most diverse universities in the country on a non-traditional city campus.
A firm believer in community and collaboration, McLeggan strategically partnered with other organizations throughout her time at Georgia State. She served as head of booking and events for the Broad Street Boardwalk lunchtime events and partnered with the Multicultural Center to enlist talent for InfluenceHER Fest: A Fest of Female Empowerment. In 2021, she approached GSU’s Spotlight Programs Board to provide talent and stage manage the performances for the Spring Carnival.
For her senior project, McLeggan produced, managed and hosted Hip-Hop at Hurt, celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop through the lens of a student. The event featured live entertainment, a DJ, activation booths, food and refreshments, and sponsorship engagement with organizations like Atlanta Influences Everything, V-103, Gyrl Wonder, Rap Board Game and Trap Sushi. She admits it was one of the most challenging, stress-inducing events, but rewarding in the end.
McLeggan credits her circle of mentors for their invaluable counsel and advice. They include MTM Standard co-founders Thrash and Yonas, alumni Evan Owens and Will Harper, Multicultural Center supervisors LaTia Sinclair and Chrissonia McCall, and her close friend Troop Brand, founder of Trap Sushi. A piece of advice she holds tightly is to remain open to doing things one could never imagine, and to innovate and foster collaboration.
When McLeggan crosses the platform to receive her degree, she undoubtedly is career-ready with confidence and focus. Her next move is to secure a position producing events, ideally at the intersection of music and hospitality. She dreams of one day owning an event management company or venue. Throughout the journey, McLeggan plans to give back to Georgia State and inspire future music industry students.