Sleepless: The Story of Future Classic

Nathan McLay, a passionate entrepreneur with a keen ear for music, had a dream of revolutionizing the Australian dance music scene. Back in 2004, he made a bold decision - to leave behind the security of a day job and embark on a new venture that would change the course of his life and the music industry forever. He founded Future Classic, a record label that would go on to become an incubator of local talent and launch the careers of some of the most influential artists in the business. The documentary Sleepless: The Story of Future Classic begins with an intimate look at Nathan McLay's journey. We see him working tirelessly behind the scenes, pouring his heart and soul into the label, and juggling multiple roles, from A&R to marketing and distribution. Despite the long hours, Nathan remains driven by his vision for Future Classic, fueled by his passion for promoting Australia's thriving dance music scene. The early years of Future Classic were marked by trial and error. Nathan navigated the challenges of running a small label, struggling to make ends meet and fighting for recognition in a crowded industry. However, he persevered, convinced that his label had the potential to be a game-changer. And slowly but surely, Future Classic began to gain momentum. The breakthrough came in the form of an unlikely collaborator - Chet Faker, aka Nick Murphy, a talented singer-songwriter who would become one of the label's most successful acts. Chet's unique blend of electronic and indie rock was the perfect fit for Future Classic's eclectic sound. With Nathan's guidance, Chet's debut EP, titled Thinking in Textures, began to gain traction, eventually leading to a spot on the coveted BBC Sound of 2014 list. The success of Chet Faker coincided with the rise of two other Future Classic acts, Flight Facilities and Flume. These genre-bending artists had been cooking up a storm in the Australian music scene, but Nathan's label became instrumental in propelling them to global stardom. The music of Flight Facilities, characterized by their atmospheric soundscapes and infectious beats, resonated with fans worldwide, while Flume's innovative production style and introspective lyrics captured the hearts of listeners across the globe. As Future Classic continued to flourish, Nathan McLay found himself at the helm of a label that had become synonymous with innovation and creativity. The documentary showcases the label's impact on the industry, with artists and industry experts alike praising Nathan's forward-thinking approach to music promotion. The film also gives a glimpse into the daily operations of Future Classic, with a behind-the-scenes look at the label's Melbourne office, where Nathan and his team work tirelessly to scout new talent and develop their signature sound. Through the lens of Future Classic's remarkable story, Sleepless: The Story of Future Classic offers an intimate portrait of an artist-label relationship. We witness the symbiotic bond between Nathan McLay and his artists, as he nurtures and champions their talent, providing them with the creative freedom to flourish. The film also highlights the challenges and sacrifices that come with running a successful label, as Nathan navigates the ups and downs of the music industry. One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is its exploration of the Australian music scene, which has long been underappreciated on the global stage. Future Classic has played a significant role in putting Australian dance music on the map, and the film offers a celebration of the country's thriving music culture. We see glimpses of legendary festivals like Sydney's Vivid Live and Melbourne's Stereosonic, which have become key platforms for showcasing Australian talent. As the documentary nears its conclusion, we are treated to an exhilarating montage of Future Classic's most iconic moments. From Chet Faker's breakout EP to Flight Facilities' sold-out tours, the edit distills the label's essence - a perfect blend of creativity, innovation, and good old-fashioned hard work. Sleepless: The Story of Future Classic is more than just a documentary - it's a love letter to the power of music, the beauty of collaboration, and the incredible journey of an artist who dared to dream big. Ultimately, Sleepless: The Story of Future Classic is a testament to the enduring spirit of Nathan McLay and the Future Classic team. Their commitment to nurturing local talent and pushing the boundaries of music has left an indelible mark on the industry. As we witness the label's remarkable growth and the success of its artists, we are reminded that even in the most competitive and unpredictable of industries, creativity, determination, and a little bit of luck can lead to something truly extraordinary.