HITS presents a brand-new feature on the agents who work behind the scenes to help get your favorite tours up and running. Do they want to deal with us? We're pretty sure that's a no. But ready or not, here comes...

Carole Kinzel: Music Agent, CAA

A 33-year veteran of CAA, Kinzel has built a highly enviable roster loaded with U.K. stars such as Dua Lipa, The Cure, Radiohead, New Order and Tears for Fears, as well as hitmakers Lana Del Rey, Gracie Abrams and Dermot Kennedy.

Based in Los Angeles, Kinzel is universally respected and loved by her peers and competitors alike. A five-time Billboard Women in Music honoree, she was named to Pollstar’s inaugural Salute to the Women of Live list in 2020, its Impact 50 list in 2022 and 2023 and, most recently, inducted into the 2024 Women of Live Hall of Fame.

Kinzel began her career as an associate at Electric Factory Concerts in Philadelphia. She previously worked as a music agent for ICM and later moved to Triad Artists.

And now, three questions:

Favorite festival you ever attended?

Coachella 2004. That year was a game changer for the festival. I had Radiohead and The Cure as the headliners and The Rapture played as well. I am so proud to have been part of that legacy.

Name an act you foresee taking a big leap forward in 2025?

Gracie Abrams, whom I represent with Shirin Nury. Gracie has the potential to move up worldwide in 2025-2026.

How do you relax away from the job?

Relaxing is not easy for me. This job carries a 24/7 commitment. I am envious of any agent who can completely relax on a holiday that’s more than two days.