The Song Sommelier encompasses the creative work and writing of Keith Jopling. Artwork on these pages is by Mick Clarke.
The site hosts the Art of Longevity podcast and archive of playlists and curated music, illustrated by Mick’s characterful style.
Keith’s forthcoming books “Body of Work” (about the music industry’s most valuable commodity, the album) and “Riding The Rollercoaster” (about surviving the music business) are published by Repeater books in February and May 2026.
For partnering with our content, book readings and talks, suggestions and collaborations, get in touch via the form or SIGN UP!
KEITH, COPY & EDITOrial
I’ve worked in the music business for 25 years, most recently as an executive consultant in the music industry’s key organisations: major labels, indies, start-ups, trade bodies and Spotify. All the time I’ve spent working on spreadsheets and charts left little room for working with the artists I love and respect so much. But I’ve always listened to the music - vast quantities of it. And I’ve spent thousands of hours reading about how that music gets made. From Lizzy to Lissie, from Duran Duran to Durand Jones, music is fuel to me.
MICK, ARTWORK & CREATIVE
Ever since I could hold a pencil I’ve been drawing and ever since I managed to get my hands on some money I’ve been buying music and going to gigs. So when a mutual friend introduced me to Keith and I heard his idea for The Song Sommelier, I was delighted to have the opportunity to fuse my two great loves. I studied illustration at Glasgow School of Art whilst taking every opportunity to see music at Barrowland Ball Room, King Tuts and many other lovely little Glasgow venues. I moved to London to study at the Royal College of Art and 20 years later I’m still here, still drawing and still listening.
Please note we do NOT take submissions for playlists! We do accept and review all artist/manager/PR requests to appear on The Art of Longevity podcast.