The contacts listed are sorted into FIVE sections.
1. Publications that will REVIEW your music
2. Radio Stations/Shows that will PLAY your songs
3. Labels, Vendors and Promotional Services that will help you to SELL your CD
4. Sites where you can UPLOAD your band's MP3s or videos
5. Helpful Resources for recording artists
|
SECTION ONE: SITES/PUBLICATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR MUSIC REVIEWED
SoulTracks
www.soultracks.com
The leading online resource dedicated to classic and modern Soul music. From its inception in 2003, SoulTracks has been designed to provide useful information and updates on the greatest classic Soul artists and to introduce readers to the next generation of Soul music singers. SoulTracks includes artist biographies and CD reviews.
College News Magazine
www.sonicbids.com/Opportunity/OpportunityView.aspx?opportunity_id=102760
A national quarterly publication written for and by college students, college graduates and young adults, with a readership of more than one million students. Twice each semester, the magazine is distributed to over 200 colleges and universities across the nation. College News is delighted with the opportunity to revamp the music section of their magazine by featuring exciting new solo musicians or bands, and are offering you the opportunity to reach out to hundreds of students and music fans. Every quarter, College News Megazine will prominently feature one musician or band. In addition, they will review your music and provide a link to the online review on our complementary website CollegeNews.com.
Strum Magazine
strummagazine.com@gmail.com
www.strummagazine.com
Features CD and live reviews.
MAGNET Magazine
attn: Reviews, 1218 Chestnut St. #508, Philadelphia, PA 19107
matt@magnetmagazine.com
www.magnetmagazine.com
We cover independent music through artist profiles, critical reviews, in-depth features and bold photography. Our website, magnetmagazine.com, contains original editorial content as well as selected pieces from the print magazine.
SCENEandHEARD.ca
270 The Kingsway, PO Box 74532, Toronto, ON M9A 3T0
submission@SCENEandHEARD.ca
www.sceneandheard.ca
A straight-talking, reviews-based site that offers you shorter articles so that you can see, hear and decide within minutes! To allow for a proper, accurate and timely review, all submissions must be received at least three months prior to release or launch of product.
Review You
www.ReviewYou.com
Have your album reviewed by a professional music journalist. This is a pay to get reviewed service. Use COUPON CODE "RY-INDIE" and receive a 10% discount off your order.
SECTION TWO: RADIO SHOWS AND PROMOTION
2.1 RADIO - STATIONS AND SHOWS
Outside the Dial, Underground Rock Radio
15413 Church Ln. Oak Forest, IL 60452
PH: 708-516-2088
Marc Piccirilli info@outsidethedial.com
www.outsidethedial.com
The underground Rock show playing what corporate radio refuses to play!!
Radio Crystal Blue
1701 Snyder Ave. #4, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Dan Herman
cblue456@optonline.net
www.radiocrystalblue.net
A freeform internet radio/podcast program. Send CDs only. CDs MUST have a 2010 or 2011 release date. I will NOT debut any CD older than June 2010.
SmoothJazz.com Internet Radio
1242 State Aven. Ste. I, PMB 174, Marysville, WA 98270
ssjazzkiss@gmail.com
www.smoothjazz.com
Please feel free to submit your music on CD to us at the above addresses. We would appreciate a little background info, but if we can find that online, just direct us to your website or MySpace page. Please be as green as possible and do not send us folders... we just end up throwing those out.
1club.fm
www.1club.fm
Over 80 free internet radio stations with the best Rock, Country, Rap, Old School, New Age, Jazz, Pop, Classical, Dance, Blues, Live Mixes, Reggae, Kids Pop, cutting-edge shows and more!
Dixie Streams
www.dixiestreams.com
Think you've got the right stuff for this radio station? Are you an independent Country artist, represent a Bluegrass band, or think your music might fit one of our stations? Use our online form to send us some info. If we like what we hear, we'll contact you to send us some music.
Magic Monster Radio
radio.magicmonsterrecords.com
Online radio that features a variety of Alternative radio shows. Indie music, Post-Punk, Lo-FI, Goth, Punk, Experimental, Noise Pop, New Wave, Industrial, Psychedelic, Glam, Prog and Art Rock.
What's Hot Radio Show TLVS1
PH: 516-668-3284
Mr.R
whatshotradio@yahoo.com
www.radiojox.com
Playing the hottest independent Hip Hop and R&B from around the world.
US Smooth Jazz
newmusic@usnewjazz.com
www.usnewjazz.com
Promoting quality music outside the limited scope of popular culture. We are always on the lookout for new music and our playlist is updated every week. There is no charge to submit your music for consideration on the playlist.
TM101 Radio
themovement101@eliment.org
www.tm101radio.com
Plays 100% independent Hip Hop and R&B, commercial free and uncensored. Please visit our website for submission details.
WCKD Radio
www.wickedheadphones.com/wicked/radio
Wicked Audio without the audio, is like pineapple with out the apple. Who wants to eat pine? We don't. WCKD Radio does want to hear what you've got, though. Visit our website to submit your MP3.
WFKU
www.wfku.org
A gothic internet radio station streaming live out of New York City. Gotham City offers us a vast selection of the best dark DJ's, events and concerts in the country. We stream live from industrial and gothic events all over the city and play sets from the most talented DJ's the city has to offer.
Brocket 99 Radio
info@brocket99.net
www.brocket99.net
Bands, we've been playing Unsigned & Indie Music (always uncensored) since 1995. E-mail us your MP3s.
2.2 RADIO - PROMOTERS
Music Registry
PH: 800-470-8803
Kathryn Sebanc
musicregistri@aol.com
www.registermymusic.com
We specialize in Hip Hop radio promotion. Our service has resulted in national airplay, album deals, major label distribution, increase sales and national charting with BDS, Billboard, Mediabase, Mediaguide, & CMJ. We specialize in FM BDS & Top 40 airplay, Billboard charting, college and online radio airplay!
Christian Radio & Retail Weekly
5350 N. Academy Blvd. #200, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
PH: 719-536-9000 FX: 719-598-7461
Dave Koch
dave@christianradioweekly.com
www.christianradioweekly.com
The industry leader in providing innovative, results-based radio promotion campaigns for independent Christian artists.
Airplay Specialists
1100 18th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37212
PH: 615-364-5145 FX: 615-321-2244
info@airplayspecialists.com
www.airplayspecialists.com
We have a personal relationship with the 1300+ stations that collectively comprise the secondary Country radio marketplace.
South Beach Marketing (SBMP)
7332 Erin Ct. Longmont, CO 80503
PH: 303-952-0249
Amanda Alexandrakis
info@MusicPromotion.com
www.musicpromotion.com
Specializes in the Adult Contemporary radio format.Our expertise has helped many artists attain national radio airplay and has been highly successful in charting our clients on national radio charts. Helping our clients succeed in commercial radio is a top priority. SBMP utilizes our extensive network of individual and label relationships within the music industry to help elevate your project to the next level of promotion. From the established artist on a major label to the indie band, SBMP can work for you.
AirplayAccess
5018 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN 37220
PH: 310-325-9997 FX: 310-427-7333
staff@airplayonly.com
www.airplayaccess.com
The music industry's answer for fast, secure music delivery, enabling registered industry professionals, records labels, artist/bands to get their promotional music directly to radio as broadcast quality digital files.
SECTION THREE: SERVICES/VENDORS/LABELS THAT WILL HELP SELL YOUR MUSIC
3.1 SERVICES - PROMOTION/PUBLICITY
Playup
PH: +61(0)403-997-278
Winston
info@playupmusic.com
www.playupmusic.com
Australian based service offering modern boutique music licensing, music clearance and sonic branding. Playup specializes in music solutions and music supervision for film, television, advertising and all new media. Looking for hot new independent music? We provide fast clearance to the hottest new music from around the world. We are a "one stop shop" with full clearance rights of all music in our catalogue.
Goodnight Kiss Music
PH: 808-331-0707
Janet Fisher
prosongwriter1@aol.com
www.goodnightkiss.com/subsc.html
Our publishing companies work with single songs of master quality, and style is determined by what the industry calls us for at the time. Since we publish mainly for film, TV, and our own special projects that we produce, our needs are varied, but time-oriented and specific. To see what we are looking for and when we are looking, you need to subscribe to our electronic newsletter. It is the sanest way of communicating with all the writers who send us inquires. It is sent out 1-3 times per month, and is loaded with pro articles, great Q&A, special software links, and great opportunities for pitching material. We charge a simple $5 per year subscription fee.
Dynasty Records Canada Distribution
PH: 780-938-7934
Brenda Rains
brains@dynastyrecords.com
www.dynastyrecords.com
Distribution through HMV and CD Plus in Canada. Distribution through FYE/TransWorld, Best Buy, Walmart and others in the US. Digital distribution to hundreds of online sites including iTunes Worldwide. Offering physical and distribution to Canadian and US artists throughout North America. Offering in store set ups in FYE stores to both Canadian and US artists to support sales and tours.
AheadPR
www.aheadpr.com
www.facebook.com/aheadpr
The leading experts in Digital Music Promotion. AheadPR work with labels, artists and management to provide the most complete and affordable solution for getting press coverage, radio airplay, label exposure and music industry feedback. The agency's campaigns ensure maximum exposure and minimal hassle for clients, meaning that all promotional activity is simple to implement, easy to manage and delivers tangible results.
Grit PR & Consulting
4207 SE Woodstock Blvd. #269, Portland, OR 97206
PH: 503-887-2644
Laurena Marrone Campos
gritpr@gmail.com
www.gritpr.com
We offer low-cost services to artists in the areas of publicity, marketing and promotion. Our commitment to our artists continues to exceed expectations and shatter preconceived notions about those on the "business" side of music and the arts.
UARLIVE
1005 Crossbow Ct. Hendersonville, TN 37075
PH: 615-484-7182
Julian Bankston Julian@uarlive.com
www.uarlive.com
We promote music videos and live performances on digital set top boxes such as the Roku and Yahoo TV platforms.
PRThatRocks.com
17 Greenwood Cove Dr. Tiburon, CA 94920
PH: 415-233-7350
Christopher Buttner rockme@prthatrocks.com
www.prthatrocks.com
Founded in 1994, PRThatRocks.com is an award-winning publicity agency specializing in entertainment, technology, events and creative talent. PRThatRocks.com is privileged to represent many of the very best Indie to internationally-recognized and award-winning entertainers, composers and recording artists, national and regional concert tours and events, legendary recording studios and production companies, and some of the best-known consumer and commercial entertainment technology manufacturers and musical instrument brands in the world.
MusicSUBMIT
34 E. 23rd St, 6th Fl. New York, NY 10029
PH: 917-512-2958
Michael
support@musicsubmit.com
www.MusicSUBMIT.com
Promotes your music to the decision makers at Internet radio stations, music blogs, online music magazines and more, AND we give you a full report of everything we do for you!
Nina Denny Public Relations
PO Box 1248, Ogdensburg, NY 13669
PH: 315-323-1058 FX: 877-349-0225
Nina
ndenny@ninadenny.com
www.ninadenny.com
PR with a personal touch, affordable rates and music expertise.
Big Noise Management
11 S. Angell St. #336, Providence, RI 02906
PH: 401-274-4770
Al Gomes
al@bignoisenow.com
www.bignoisenow.com
We do artist development, A&R, music marketing, and film and TV licensing. We work with Pop, Rock, R&B, Hard Rock, Metal, Jazz, Acoustic, Dance and Blues artists. Currently seeking new artists. Please call or email first. We also run Big Noise Records.
LaFaMos Marketing & Publicity
4657 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood, CA 90027
PH: 323-668-9383 FX: 323-668-9386
Hunter
contact@Lafamos.com
www.Lafamos.com
We offer many services such as marketing and publicity, graphic & web design, press kit layout & design, radio promotion, procurement of album and show reviews, copyright & PRO registration assistance, legal referrals and everything else associated with the music business.
Dream Town Media
Melissa Hehring
melissa@dreamtownmedia.com
www.dreamtownmedia.com
We create cohesive digital marketing and social media campaigns; develops websites; provides event and marketing services for independent musicians, artists and authors. We take the burden off you so you can focus on your creating art. Are you a musician looking for a way to get your music published and heard? Dream Town Media has the resources to help you get your music recorded. We can help you take your music to market. We have the relationships to get you spins and downloads. Are you tired of trying to go it alone? We can help.
Miles High Productions
PO Box 93157, Hollywood, CA 90093
PH: 323-806-0400 FX: 323-462-0829
mhpmanagement@mileshighproductions.com
www.mileshighproductions.com
Created to bridge the gap of companies working directly with music artists and entertainment based projects who are in need of additional marketing support. MHP also focuses on non-music ventures such as corporate brand building, cosmetics, gaming, sports and other industries. MHP's goal is to elevate your product or artist to a higher ground in an expedient timeframe by exposing them to new and existing online audiences. MHP also focuses on taking our campaigns one step further by cross-promoting all traditional methods of marketing with online opportunities for further outreach. @MilesHigh
Ariel Publicity Artist Relations and Cyber Promotions
389 12th St., Brooklyn, NY 11215
PH: 212-239-8384 FX: 212-239-8380
Ariel Hyatt
contact@arielpublicity.com
www.arielpublicity.com
Professional promotional services for indie artists. Ask about our discount for Indie Bible customers!
Encourageanaire.com
500 SW 10th St., Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
info@encourageanaire.com
www.encourageanaire.com
A Grassroots/visionary-Oriented Miami based positive entertainment management company, sowing the inestimable virtues of faith, hope, love, encouragement, humility, integrity, patience & joy worldwide. All genres of thankful, joyful & encouraging music & art. Personal entertainment artist management/A&R & licensing/consulting/getworking.
Jam Sessions Marketing
PH: 212-671-2033
Forrest Casey
JSMPromotions@gmail.com
Helps musicians and singers promote their musical talent and/or product(s) and services through a niche publicity tactic that will be made available to the public via the internet and print marketing. JSM would like to discuss your goals and objectives to see if we are able to assist you with your next project.
Vandala Concepts
Box 22001, Vernon, BC V1T 9L7
PH: 250-309-1299 FX: 250-545-4822
Crystal Lee
vandala@vandalaconcepts.com
www.VandalaConcepts.com
We do it all. We are a full service entertainment company dedicated to serving the needs of independent musicians around the world. We listen to EVERYTHING we receive.
Daylle Deanna Schwartz Consulting
Daylle
www.daylle.com
When major label artists sells 20,000 CDs, or even 200,000 CDs, they're treated like failures. When indies sell those numbers, they celebrate. I encourage you to develop your career first in order to give yourself more leverage to get a deal that will advance your career. Contact me about my fees if you need CONSULTING on how to make progress in your music career or need a shot of motivation by using my CAREER COACHING. I do it in person and by phone.
3.2 SERVICES - LABELS, DISTRIBUTORS AND ONLINE VENDORS
Independent Distribution Collective
880 Folsom St., San Francisco, CA 94107
PH: 415-292-7007 FX: 415-292-5007
newmusic@independentdistro.com
www.independentdistro.com
Helping the next generation of musicians get their music to market. Never before has a distributor opened its doors to the thousands of talented artists who work so hard to score a record deal. The idea is that many of these people could bring a CD to market, without the overhead of a middle man. IDC will actively promote its services to the thousands of bands and solo artists who have spent years trying to secure that ever-elusive distribution deal. "Independent Music Moving Forward!"
SECTION FOUR: SITES WHERE YOU CAN UPLOAD YOUR BAND'S MP3s
OR VIDEOS
LiveBluesTonight.com
Big Wayne
wayne@livebluestonight.com
www.LiveBluesTonight.com
We are having a band video contest. We are excepting videos right now and it is free to join the competition. Winners will receive lots of prizes and bragging rights
groopEase
www.groopease.com
Our mission is to navigate through the noise and help you discover artists whose music we love and respect. Our music development team spends more hours than you can imagine listening to albums, attending shows, meeting with bands, reading music websites and blogs, and generally devoting their lives to music. Sound like fun? Trust us, it is ... but it's also quite an onerous task.
RockTunz
7 Doone St., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
PH: 805-494-0469
Ric Levine Ric@RockTunz.com
www.rocktunz.com
Sells downloads and CDs by Prog, Rock & Metal artists from around the world.
Uarlive.com Roku IPTV Channel
Julian
Julian@uarlive.com
www.uarlive.com
We have introduced the first Roku IPTV channel for indie musicians. The Roku is a set-top box that streams content from the Internet to your living room. This device can be purchased at Best Buy and has sold over 2 million units. The Uarlive Roku Channel is currently accepting new submissions free of charge. Please e-mail me with YouTube links to your videos and include Roku Channel in the subject line. Individuals selected for inclusion will be contacted directly.
Ditto Music
4th Fl. 29-31 Parliament St., Liverpool, L8 5RN UK
PH: 0844-770-4121
info@dittomusic.com
www.dittomusic.com
We take no percentage of your earnings, in fact you receive a further 10% of income just for signing up with Ditto. We collect PRS from every sale. This is around 10% of your sales revenue and can seriously add up. Every time you play a gig you are owed royalties ranging from 6 pounds for an open mic night, to thousands of pounds for festival appearances. There are also royalties owed to you if your music has been on radio or television and we can claim back all of these for you. Once you sign up with Ditto you simply enter your details and we collect the money for you.
iNDIEVOX
www.indievox.com
Based in Taiwan, a website with a specially designed platform for the independent music services including a digital music store, concert tickets and music community. We hope, to let the public hear independent creations of beauty. With the help of iNDIEVOX the independent music scene in Taiwan will grow stronger, together.
thesixtyone
help@thesixtyone.com
www.thesixtyone.com
New artists make music and listeners decide what's good. We're nurturing a growing ecosystem where talented folks can sell songs and merchandise directly to their fans.
SonicAngel
PH: +32-495-10-25-18
info@sonicangel.com
www.sonicangel.com
We believe in music. We believe in the power of technology. And we believe in you as a fan. That's why we put you and your artist at the center of our innovative music ecosystem. With your help we can create new opportunities for new talent. We add your support - financial and otherwise - to the best of existing music practices and leading digital technology to give your favorite artists the chance they deserve!
Indie Charts
info@indiecharts.com
www.indiecharts.com
Indie music reviews, music charts, indie radio & free music downloads!
JukeBoxAlive
311 Montford Ave. Asheville, NC 28801
PH: 828-232-0016
Will Cumberland cumberland@jukeboxalive.com
jukeboxalive.com
Our Advanced Jukebox Player protects your music from being digitally downloaded, yet allows fans to hear your music online. This creates exciting possibilities for you to present yourself to new audiences without being ripped off.
SECTION FIVE: SOCIAL NETWORKS AND ONLINE COMMUNITIES
Muzicol
www.muzicol.com
A music community network for artists and fans worldwide to indulge in their passion. We are a global community network focused on providing a virtual stage for artists of the world; whether you are visiting to look up a recording, to get our take on a new release, or simply to explore the world of music, you have come to the right place. Muzicol is not only a music platform; it's a Musical Community Network for the entertainment industry, not only for artists but also for make-up artists, dancers, videographers etc.
TooBigTV.com
www.toobigtv.com
Community for Hip Hop artists. Because without promotion, it's just music ...
Flowd
www.flowd.com
The perfect app to follow your favorite music acts, moves and grooves, as well as manage your social networks and location check-ins in one go. Chat with friends, find the coolest spots, share pictures and connect to Facebook & Twitter. Flowd is the one stop shop for your social life.
NuMuBu
www.numubu.com
The music industry's social & business network where you can find gigs, contracts, jobs, collaborators, tools, & the knowledge you're looking for.
alive not dead.com
www.alivenotdead.com
An online Chinese community dedicated to helping artists. Our goal is to strengthen artist communities worldwide and to help connect these communities together. Through our website, artists can connect with and grow their audience, share their creative works, and meet and collaborate with other artists.
BUZZNET
www.buzznet.com
Music community featuring band photos, fashion, videos and blogs.
Indie Dial
www.indiedial.com
Post songs, shows, photos, blogs and more. Communicate with your fans/listeners.
SECTION SIX: HELPFUL TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR YOUR BAND
6.1 RESOURCES - GENERAL
GoodBuzz
19-21 Crawford St., London W1H 1PJ UK
PH: +44-20-8144-8669
cservice@goodbuzz.org
www.goodbuzz.org
An experiment built on the idea that event promotion is not about money, but grassroots marketing. We have created Goodbuzz to help event organizers who don't have a lot of money to promote their event. They can use the peer referral system to reach more people in less time than they ever thought possible.
The Native Circle
3199 Main St., Mexico, NY 13114
PH: 315-963-3820
Laura Vannah info@nativecircle.net
www.NativeCircle.net
Provides a unique platform for Native American artists while continuing to empower individuals to express themselves and their stories by sharing their voices and gifts with the world. Through the use of the Arts and the Native American culture, the Native Circle provides a unique platform that empowers individuals to express and celebrate the diversity that unites us.
Audio Rokit
Bradford Ct. Firle Rd. Eastbourne, BN22 8DT UK
PH: 01323732149
contact@audiorokit.co.uk
audiorokit.co.uk
A website that makes it easy to submit your music to hundreds of labels, TV/film, publishers and more. A&R can log in a listen to all the applicants to their listing from anywhere, any time and with no limits on account size. It is super easy for them to contact, organise and manage applicants.
TunePledge
www.tunepledge.com
A new crowdfunding site where musicians can raise money for recording, video production, touring, merchandise, gear and other career related expenses.
Express In Music
PH: +65-6784-4602
ask@expressinmusic.com
www.ExpressInMusic.com
A platform connecting thousands of musicians with clients seeking personalized music. We personalize songs for your branding and communication needs. Based on your brand's story and character, we customize an original song that best represents your persona. Touch your audience and customers emotionally. Engage them with a piece of personalized music that attaches your brand's meaning.
Kickstarter
www.kickstarter.com
A new way to fund creative projects. We believe that a good idea, communicated well, can spread fast and wide and that a large group of people can be a tremendous source of money and encouragement. Kickstarter is powered by a unique all-or-nothing funding method where projects must be fully-funded or no money changes hands.
5 Alarm Music
35 W. Dayton St., Pasadena, CA 91105
PH: 626-304-1698 x542 FX: 626-795-2058
Terrilynn Rosa
terrilynn@rescuerecords.net
www.5alarmmusic.com
The largest independent production music library in the US! With over 115,000 tracks online, as well as over 200 independent artists, original music, and music supervision services, we truly are a one-stop shop for TV music, film music, trailer music, music for video and music for commercials.
Dinner and Song
www.dinnerandsong.com
House Concerts - play, go to, or host one!
Who's Next to Blow
PH: 877-204-5920
pfandassociates.ning.com
A show designed to show the world the best indie artists from all over. For more information pertaining to these shows please give us a call.
Bandit A&R Newsletter
68-70 Lugley St., Newport, PO30 5ET UK
PH: +44-1983-524110
John
bandit.42@aweber.com
http://www.banditnewsletter.com
Helping ambitious bands target their demos to labels, publishers etc.
LicenseQuote.com
19049 Janisse Ln. Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
PH: 951-678-5725
www.licensequote.com
Provides music licensing solutions for independent artists, labels and music publishers. It enables publishers to license their songs, recordings and related assets directly from their own websites.
6.2 RESOURCES - CD DUPLICATION
DISC MAKERS
7905 N. Rte. 130, Pennsauken, NJ 08110-1402
PH: 856-663-9030 FX: 856-661-3458
www.discmakers.com
The nation's leading CD / DVD duplicator, replicator and printer. When you're ready to make CDs, we're ready to make it happen. We're musicians too, so we know what you need to make it in this business: The best-looking product, the hottest-sounding audio and the most valuable (and free) promotional tools, including free distribution, a free UPC bar code and much more!
CRT, Custom Products
7532 Hickory Hills Ct. Whites Creek, TN 37189
PH: 800-453-2533
http://www.crtcustomproducts.com
Manufacturing, printing, packaging, fulfillment & distribution. Your All-In-One Custom Products SOLUTION!
New Cyberian Systems
1919 O'Toole Way, San Jose, CA 95131
PH: 877-423-4383 FX: 408-884-2257
sales@newcyberian.com
www.newcyberian.com
A full-service CD / DVD manufacturer with facilities throughout the world. For the last few years we have positioned ourselves as a needs-orientated service provider to our clients. Keeping customers satisfied by providing highest quality products and services has been our guideline of business. No matter what your needs are, New Cyberian is your ultimate source for CD-ROM, Business Card CDROM, Shaped CD, Mini CD, DVD, CDR and CD Labels.
Disc2Day
2113 S. 48th St. #103, Tempe, AZ 85282
PH: 602-438-4848 FX: 602-438-2929
www.disc2day.com
A CD DVD duplication and replication company that works closely with the customer to fulfill his or her individual needs. We offer high-quality, professional services with some of the fastest turnaround times in the industry. If CD replication or DVD replication is what you are looking for, we have your solution. With our state-of-the-art facility we can handle any size job, from one to a million or more.
Play-It Productions
259 W. 30th St. 3rd Fl. New York, NY 10001
PH: 212-695-6530 FX: 212-695-4304
info@play-itproductions.net
www.play-itproductions.net
Founded in 1990 to provide local musicians and other content owners with a one stop solution for all of their duplication and graphic needs no matter the size of the project.
KUFALA Recordings
1401 Park St. #103, Paso Robles, CA 93446
PH: 805-239-4201 FX: 413-254-9641
info@kufala.com
www.kufala.com
Plastic Sucks! That is why KUFALA only produces CD/DVDs in environmentally friendly packaging. We specialize in made to order short run CD/DVDs so if you are looking to make 1 to 500 units KUFALA is the partner you are looking for. KUFALA handles all the direct to fan live releases for Pearl Jam, Crowded House, Phish and many more ... so come on over and work with the pros and make your product eco-friendly.
Creative Sound Corp.
5515 Medea Valley Dr. Agoura Hills, CA 91301
PH: 818-707-8986 FX: 818-707-8164
info@csoundcorp.com
www.csoundcorp.com
CD/DVD replication, special packages include graphics / high quality color printing. Full Guarantee
for Competitive Pricing & Premium Quality. Plant Locations: California and North Carolina.
Mention that you saw us in The Indie Bible and we will match or beat any advertised price.
6.3 RESOURCES - MASTERING
OnlineSongMasters.Com
PH: 513-235-9534
Patti Wenstrup Mason
PattiMason@OnlineSongMasters.Com
www.onlinesongmasters.com
A full service recording studio with a twist - all recording can be done online, making it affordable and accessible to just about everyone. This is not synthesizer or midi; it's real people playing real instruments. The internet simply functions as an interface between the OnlineSongMasters.Com staff and their clients, allowing the customer access to some of the best studio talent in the world. A full staff of gifted and experienced studio musicians and engineers can do any studio job from adding a flute to your song to producing a radio ready opus: written, arranged, performed, recorded, mixed and mastered to your specifications. OnlineSongMasters.Com is a full service online recording studio that provides all studio services- from one track to a full production - to songwriters, musicians or anyone who wishes to leave a musical legacy.
The Mastering Room
480 Baldur Run St., Las Vegas, NV 89148
PH: 415-948-4734
Greg Forsberg
info@themasteringroom.com
www.themasteringroom.com
World Class CD Mastering and Replication. Give your music the edge over your competition. Luxury Mastering at indie rates.
Diamondisc Audio
204 Still Water Cir. Nashville, TN 37221
PH: 615-662-6870 FX: 615-662-6870
Doug Diamond
info@diamondiscaudio.com
www.diamondiscaudio.com
A full service multimedia company specializing in CD Mastering services as well as Short-Runs of CDs and DVDs, CD/DVD
replication, digital editing, enhanced CD development, song catalog archiving, audio restoration, MP3 mastering, multi-track to stereo mixing, 5.1 Surround Sound mixing and mastering, website design, digital content delivery, video editing, DVD authoring, graphic design and much more. Chances are, if it has to do with digital media - we do it!
Soundmirror Mastering
76 Green St., Boston, MA 02130-2271
PH: 617-522-1412 FX: 617-524-8377
www.soundmirror.com
With over 20 years of experience, our Grammy Award winning mastering engineers have mastered thousands of records for internationally renowned artists, bands and orchestras, giving each album the individual attention, expertise and the gentle touch it deserves.
The Place...For Mastering
2508 Winford Ave. 2nd Fl. Nashville, TN 37211
PH: 615-686-1725
Alex Rockafellar
alex@theplaceformastering.com
www.theplaceformastering.com
World class mastering for diverse artists of every genre. No matter what genre of music you work in or the size of your project, The Place...For Mastering has the experience, talent, and facilities to ensure you have the finest final product possible. We understand that creating your music exactly how you want it and then presenting it at the very highest professional level is important to every artist.
6.4 RESOURCES - MERCH
JakPrints
3133 Chester Ave. Cleveland, OH 44114
PH: 877-246-3132 FX: 866-900-0901
www.jakprints.com
EcoGreen Stickers are Here! Introducing the world's first and only earth-friendly alternative to vinyl stickers. It's just as durable as vinyl but made from limestone and manufactured with zero water consumption or toxic agents. And the best part -- EcoGreen Stickers are a green product that actually costs less!
Ultra Entertainment
4838 E. Baseline Rd. #121, Mesa, AZ 85206
PH: 602-334-4741 FX: 866-847-4508
www.ultraentertainment.com
Everything we do here at Ultra Entertainment is about artist development. Our mission is to provide bands affordable tools, products, and services. All of those tools, products, and services are designed to get your band to the next level. We talk about the "Next Level" a lot here at Ultra Entertainment. What this means is simply a development process of learning and growing as an artist while at the same time growing your fan base. Mention this listing to receive FREE POSTERS!
SMI Promotional Merchandise
7277 Hayvenhurst Ave. #B-9, Van Nuys, CA 91406
PH: 800-401-4488
Alana Wexler
alana@smipromo.com
www.smipromo.com
We specialize in factory direct band merchandise, apparel and accessories. We have produced items for over 50 major tours.
Just Buttons
25 Roy St., East Haven, CT 06512
PH: 330-288-8667
www.justbuttons.org
Looking for high quality custom buttons at a price that won't break the bank? Whether you need ten or ten thousand , Just Buttons has a package for you. Our high quality 1", 1.25", 1.75", 2.25", 3.50", 2" Square, and 2.50 x 3.50 rectangle pins are perfect for political campaigns, bands, promotions, charities, non-profits, wedding favors, and much more. Need design help? Not a problem, contact us today and we'll make your vision a reality. We also offer key chains, bottle opener, and magnets. All of our prices include full color, set up, and FREE SHIPPING (to USA and on non-RUSH orders).
6.5 RESOURCES - MUSIC EQUIPMENT
Big Bends
PO Box 324, Plainwell, MI 49080-0324
PH: 888-788-2363
www.bigbends.com
We strive to provide the highest quality guitar accessories possible to help Guitarists reach their full potential while also simplifying the lives of the Technicians that maintain their instruments. Each day we strive to recycle each scrap of paper, cardboard and plastic - to be the greenest, most Earth-friendly company we can be.
Guitar Center
PH: 866-498-7882
www.guitarcenter.com
We help people make music. You're guaranteed the lowest price from Guitar Center. Period. If at any time within 30 days of your purchase from us, you find the identical item in stock and advertised by any other authorized dealer at a price lower than what you paid, Guitar Center will fully protect you. Just bring in that dealer's ad, along with your original Guitar Center receipt, and we'll gladly refund you 100% of the difference, plus another 10% of that difference.
Westone - The InEar Experts
PO Box 15100, Colorado Springs, CO 80935
PH: 800-525-5071 FX: 800-736-9576
music@Westone.com
www.westone.com
We have been at the forefront of in-ear musicians' monitoring technology since the early 1990's. Each one of our professional in-ear musicians' monitors is designed with one goal in mind; to help you hear accurately so you can perform at your peak - night after night, show after show. The true test of our monitor superiority is their acceptance by artists and their crews, and Westone has created custom monitors for acts ranging from Brad Paisley and Lee Ann Womack to Nine Inch Nails and Flyleaf. Visit our website for a list of the musicians that we've made products for.
Mojave Audio
2711 Empire Ave. Burbank, CA 91504
PH: 818-847-0222
support@mojaveaudio.com
www.mojaveaudio.com
What makes Mojave different? A Mojave microphone's journey begins and ends in Burbank, CA. US made Jensen transformers and NOS (new old stock) tubes are shipped offshore and mated to capsules and bodies, according to David Royer's design specifications, at a highly respected factory that David has worked with for over 15 years. All Mojave microphones are constructed with respect to David's unprecedented research and attention to electronic design and quality. After assembly, they are shipped back to Burbank for extensive QC inspections. Prior to packaging, every mic is burned in for 24 hours and personally listened to by David.
FingerPop
PO Box 68842, Indianapolis, IN 46268
PH: 888-423-9222
info@fingerpop.com
www.fingerpop.com
Looking for new record sleeves, special mailing boxes for vinyl records, record cleaner, CD or record supplies of all types, Audio-technica turntables, headphones or...just want to take a peek at the latest retro-looking record players, radios, or jukeboxes from the old/new CROSLEY RADIO Company?
We have it all! record & CD players and turntables, record cabinets & stands, headphones, jukeboxes for CDs, radios and CD & DVD supplies
Sonic Distribution
PH: 617-623-5581 x111 FX: 617-623-5857
Bob
bob@sonicus.net
www.sonicus.net
Distributors of fine pro audio products. Magneto Audio Labs features the all new VariOhm! The latest in impedance control technology. Get more from your mics and preamps. Nimbus us designed for advanced audio and video content creation. Powered by Intel quad core technology. Microsonic Music brings you a range of earphones designed for the professional musician through to the everyday iPod user...
6.6 RESOURCES - STUDIOS
SoundsAtlanta
PO Box 49266, Atlanta, GA 30359
PH: 404-329-9438
Bill Tullis
soundsatlanta@aol.com
www.soundsatlanta.com
Our goal is to provide world-class quality recordings and products without breaking your budget. We have the latest gear and technology to make your next project perfect. Our turnkey approach makes it easy to do all production phases in one place, or mix and match for any task. No project is too large or small. We specialize in all styles of music, from Bach to Rock.
Saint Claire Recording Company
2640 Spurr Rd. Lexington, KY, 40511
PH: 859-252-7272
John Parks
info@saint-claire.com
www.saint-claire.com
We offer you 7,800 sq. ft. of recording studio bliss! Our facility is situated on 14 acres, just outside of Lexington, KY. We have luxurious overnight accommodations, one of the biggest control rooms in North America, and a gear list that can satisfy even the most seasoned professional. Come see for yourself why so many artists love to call us home!
6.7 RESOURCES - EDUCATIONAL
Independent Music Companies Association (IMPALA)
Coudenberg, 70, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
PH: +32-2-503-31-38 FX: +32-2-503-23-91
info@impalamusic.org
www.impalamusic.org
Our mission is to grow the independent music sector, promote cultural diversity and cultural entrepreneurship, improve political access and modernise the perception of the music industry.
Seven Simple Strategies for Musicians, Bands & Indie Labels
PO Box 2385, Benicia CA 94510
PH: 707-567-3747
www.musicmarketingbook.net
An eBook that describes exactly what you have to do to capture the audience that is perfect for you and your music. It will help you understand the mind set as well as teach you some time tested strategies that work! The Workbook will walk you through the process of creating a targeted market Media Plan unique to your act. The videos will show you "How To" use some tools that professional marketers use.
Harris Institute
118 Sherbourne St., Toronto, ON M5A 2R2
PH: 416-367-0178 FX: 416-367-5534
info@harrisinstitute.com
www.harrisinstitute.com
A leader in music industry education since 1989. Students have come from over sixty countries and every province in Canada. A 68 member award winning faculty teaches the private college's 100 students.
Daylle Deanna Schwartz
6.8 RESOURCES - TOOLS
HostBaby's Amazing Site Builder Contest
PH: 888-448-6369
PERSON
hostbaby@hostbaby.com
https://secure.hostbaby.com/signup
To celebrate the launch of their Site Builder tool, HostBaby is holding a website design contest! They're offering huge prizes for the best websites designed with the new HostBaby Site Builder. Try out the Site Builder Free for 30 Days. Build an awesome website. Submit your site by Sunday May 15th for a chance to win.
Songtrust
PH: 646-918-5181
hello@songtrust.com
www.songtrust.com
Simplifies music publishing by providing one simple dashboard where you can properly register and protect all of your songs.
mSpot
455 Portage Ave. Ste. A, Palo Alto, CA 94306
PH: 650=321-7000 FX: 650-321-7077
information@mspot.com
www.mspot.com
A mobile and PC entertainment company that delivers music, movies, radio and TV to more than six million mobile customers across 10 wireless carriers. Throw away the ball and chain that is your cable or USB cord. You won't be needing it any more. You are now free to move about while listening to music and watching movies - streamed from the Internet. Now offering 5 GB free storage.
BandVista
PH: 877-875-4470
support@bandvista.com
www.bandvista.com
Offers a leading web presence to local talent for an affordable price. By using industry leading BandVista tools, musicians can broadcast their sound and image within minutes and for a fraction of the cost and time others invest in similar websites! Hundreds of Layouts and Designs to choose from! Our system is designed to understand your look and feel, which means your website will look like yours and not like everyone else's. Truly build a unique web presence without being an expert developer. Our tools make this usable by anyone.
Merch Music
110 Brookline St., Cambridge, MA 02139
PH: 617-596-4881
info@merchmusic.com
www.merchmusic.com
The ultimate DIY tool for musicians. We provide small labels with unique codes that allow fans to download your music, artwork, and/or videos! Artists attach these labels to their merchandise to sell at shows or on a download card to sell individually. Creative uses are endless - try it for free!
MyNewsletterBuilder
comments@mynewsletterbuilder.com
www.mynewsletterbuilder.com
A user-friendly, feature-rich, online newsletter management program for novices and professionals alike.
6.9 RESOURCES - FILM AND VIDEO PRODUCTION SERVICES
Go To Team Productions
PH: 888-455-4333
crew@gototeam.com
www.gototeam.com
A high-end video production company with markets in L.A., Orlando, Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh, Charleston, Nashville, and D.C. We specialize in filming musicians from all genres for the purpose of producing video for EPK's, live and studio performances, behind the scenes, music videos, interviews, cruises, and festivals. Some of the musicians we have filmed include T.I., Paulo Nutini, Serena Ryder, Jamie Foxx, Avett Brothers, Raekwan, NeedToBreathe, Sharon Van Etten, Chatham County Line, and Trey Songz. We also partner with MTV, VH1, Atlantic Records, and the Hopscotch Festival to create high definition footage and exceptional service for various artists. As a team of talented professionals, we are looking to give you a fresh and unique way to market your music. We aim to jumpstart your career and show people why you rock!
6.10 RESOURCES - ORGANIZATIONS
Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)
7 World Trade Center, 250 Greenwich St., New York, NY 10007-0030
PH: 212-220-3000
www.bmi.com
Collects license fees on behalf of the more than 400,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers it represents and distributes those fees as royalties to members whose works have been publicly performed. As a performing right organization, or PRO, BMI issues licenses to various users of music, including television and radio stations and networks; new media, including Internet services and websites and mobile technology businesses such as ringtone and ringback providers; satellite audio services like XM and Sirius; nightclubs, discos, hotels, bars, restaurants and other businesses; digital jukeboxes; and live concert venues.
SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers)
55 Music Square E., Nashville, TN 37203
PH: 615-320-0055 FX: 615-963-3527
www.sesac.com
SESAC will represent the right for your music to be played in public. Songwriters and publishers are paid royalties based upon how much their songs are played. The system required to compute compensation is based on many factors, including state-of-the-art monitoring, computer database information and broadcast logs. Unlike ASCAP and BMI, SESAC utilizes a selective process when affiliating songwriters and publishers, resulting in a roster of affiliates who have personal relationships with the SESAC staff. In short, SESAC's creative staff provides affiliated songwriters and publishers with a level of service and attention unparalleled in the industry.
SoundExchange
1121 14th St. NW. #700, Washington, DC 20005
PH: 202-640-5858 FX: 202-640-5859
info@soundexchange.com
www.soundexchange.com
Distributes royalties from internet airplay (ie: XM, Sirius, Live365). If you have had airplay from any internet sources, you probably have some royalties waiting for you. Sign up today!
SECTION SEVEN: THIS MONTH'S ARTICLE
Top 5 Music Business Mistakes PART II (continued from last month)
by Rick Goetz, musiciancoaching.com
© 2011 All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission
4. Comparing Apples To Oranges
On the off chance that the title of this article is a piece of slang that was unique to my parents (I ran the title by someone who was baffled by the fact that a music blog would be discussing fruit) I am speaking about comparing two things that can't be accurately compared. I have found that is very common for artists to have the belief that exposure = sales and that all songs and all artists if given the same exposure would get the same response from the public. This issue gets especially cloudy when an artist is comparing his or her own career to the career of someone in the public eye.
The most hate mail I ever got was from an article I wrote that contained the words "Great bands make great managers". Musicians and managers alike hated this statement but it is one that I still stand by. What did I mean when I said it? Well, there is an old (and awful) saying I heard in my record company days - "You can't polish a turd." There were simply some acts back then that no matter how much a label spent on getting them on Radio, MTV and on great tours they just never connected with people.
Many things have changed in the music business but I don't think this has changed at all - sometimes all of the exposure in the world just doesn't matter. I get into a ton of trouble using the word "great" so let me clear that up for the comments you are writing in your head about how much Nickelback sucks and how could Lady Gaga and Kesha possibly be considered great and how I don't know what I'm talking about??? First off you should know that on any given week I actively dislike about 90% of the top 200 albums on the Billboard charts. Secondly I neither know nor do I think it is entirely knowable why something connects with a mass audience and some things don't. I do know that some artists seem to be opportunity magnets and many more are not.
Back to the statement about managers - very few people refer to managers without successful clients as "great." Even if a manager does everything right and gets his or her clients exposure, if they don't yield results very few people take notice of that manager's ability. There are other times when you can't seem to stop opportunities from arising for a song or for an artist and contrary to popular belief this really isn't always related to an artist's team. Yes- a good team can bring in great opportunities and tip the balance in an artist's favor but generally speaking it is as much the music as the artist's handlers that makes things happen for an artist.
We see this phenomenon in a much more overt way with viral video in the digital age. People either see something and pass it on to their friends or they don't. I always find it interesting when someone sets out to "Make a viral video". Barring a Trojan type virus that would automatically make a video play every time someone turned on their machine (please don't do this) there is no way of predicting what will be viral and what won't be. You can market and spend all you want but some things catch fire and other things just don't.
Okay, I have probably beaten this point to death and depressed a bunch of you. Not at all my intent and not at all the focus of this article. If such things are believed to be truly out of your hands then what is an artist to do? My suggestions are two-fold:
One: Acceptance
Acceptance is not the Acceptance of failure. It is the acceptance that if you are doing everything you can to promote yourself- at this moment in time it may not be your turn to be widely embraced by mass media. Enduring and building the best you can is sometimes all you can do until the stars align for you.
Two: Growth
It could be the passage of time alone might make the world ready for your music, stranger things have happened. If it were my music career though I would err on the side of caution and make sure that I put the time in to get better at my craft just a little bit every day. Perhaps your abilities are just a tweak away from being ready to react with people in a different way. The Plain White Tees released "Hey There Delilah" a few different times before a version of the song finally caught fire.
While I never heard the words come directly out of his mouth Ahmet Ertegun was often quoted as saying "A hit will find a way". I think there is a very real feeling that is not at all subtle when you have hit upon a formula with a song or with a group that is really connecting. I also think that there is no telling when (or if) that moment will ever grow in to being. Until such time keep improving your craft and stop comparing yourself to others - it tends not to do any good. If all the exposure in the world was suddenly heaped on you- you might not be ready for it yet.
5a. Black and White Thinking (Day Job)
For me personally, this is the bitch of the bunch. When I hit a speed bump along the road of life like not getting one of my client's a much needed tour or losing out on a new client to a larger company it is often the case that my thought process and solutions to these problems are far worse than the problems themselves. When I don't close a new client I really wanted my mind doesn't automatically jump to "Well, I'd better find some more potential clients to pitch" it jumps to "I'm going to wind up dying homeless on the street in a cardboard box and I won't even have any pets to love me". The upside to my having this warped way of thinking is that it is VERY common among musicians and creative folks. Doing what I do it's important that I relate to this issue and believe you me- I understand.
So what does this look like? Well, in my experience there are three very common topics in a musician's existence where this thinking really shines through namely in their relationship to their day job, their relationship to their career trajectory and their relationship to the industry.
Your Day Job
So this is usually among the younger set of musicians but have you ever heard a statement like this? "I just quit my job so I can focus on music full time". Now before you rip my head off- yes, in general this is the plan and we all want to be in a place to do this BUT there is a small matter of timing here that is crucial. This transition needs to be well thought out and handled very delicately and with the understanding that you are going to need some source of funding for your life for at least a few years. This is very much an A to Z move so if you just got your Daisy Rock Acoustic Guitar Starter pack in the mail and wrote your first song about your pet ferret George - welcome to letter A - and don't quit that job yet.
Daisy Rock Acoustic Starter Pack - A Reason to Have Kids
This step is really difficult for many a musician especially if there isn't some kind of structure in place. Few people take in to account the paralyzing effect of being granted nearly limitless options with your day after having been part of a routine (no matter how unpleasant that routine may have been for you). Back to the black and white part- the point is it is very difficult to jump into full time music without having built something. If you work a job and have a music business on the side that is beginning to make less money because you can't break away from the day job it may be time to transition from full time to part time at your main gig or to lobby your boss to let you work from home or to find a job with more flexibility (even if it means less pay). None of this is easy but it is possible.
A steady gig has the obvious benefits of stability and insurance but it also provides a regular source of human contact. People often forget how isolating self-employment can be and let's not forget- you have to invite someone to your shows, right? I'm all in favor of going to music full time but I am also of the belief when you are shifting a car from first gear to overdrive that you will have a much easier transition by shifting through the intermediate gears.
5b. Black and White Thinking (Career Trajectory)
It's a very odd thing to talk to your average musician about their career goals. As I have mentioned before I often hear things like "getting to the next level" or wanting to "make it". Part of the problem is that statements like these aren't specific enough to be of much use to those who utter them. I'm not here to tell anyone that the music business isn't difficult or isn't filled with frustration - it is absolutely frustrating and the pace at which it moves (especially when you are starting out) makes glaciers look like Ferraris. Many musicians need to get a grip on what the majority of career trajectories look like and stop comparing themselves to so-called overnight successes. The harsh reality is that yes- some seemingly talentless people get rich and famous doing music and as much as that can mess with your sense of justice - there is absolutely nothing you can do about it.
I should mention that I don't blame anyone for their perception of what the music business really is and what making a living making music looks like. Pop Culture and Hollywood have done a number on us all by presenting us a constantly whispered message that anyone can be a celebrity for seemingly no reason at all. The VH1 behind the music series (which I loved and still do love) was a classic representation of what is broadcast about a musician's career. It had an hour slot and usually was about 43 minutes long. It usually looked like this:
Minutes 1-4 - Where the musician grew up, who their parents were and how they always wanted to be a singer / guitarist / rockstar / rapper
Minute 5-7: - Quotes from Mom, family and friends about how this person was very driven
Minutes 7-10: some footage from a talent show, the chance meeting of a collaborator or label executive - perhaps some brief mention of the artist gigging in obscurity for an unmentioned period of time and at least once getting close to calling it quits.
Minutes 10 onwards - Minor problems in the studio and then rocket ship ride to superstardom including the obligatory dark period (usually someone close to the subject dying or a drug habit) followed by the redemption of them still being on top - and everything being okay.
The point is it is not an interesting Hollywood story that it took a ton of hard work and someone built their fan base one fan at a time over years and years. It is not an interesting Hollywood story that people slowly but surely got better at the craft and kept moving forward. The hard work, the struggle, the doubt, the waiting for better??? this is a great deal of the process but it is presented as little more than a footnote in the folklore of being a successful musician.
What I mean to say is that it is easy to think in absolutes when this is the cultural message we receive every day. Try to avoid this. If you don't avoid this it becomes far too easy to be that older crabby musician or ex musician who has a chip on his or her shoulder about how the business (and everything else) sucks.
Try to remember you are slowly building a business and that as long as you are slowly aligning your work life with your passion for music you are on the right track. Your career isn't nowhere if you aren't drawing 500 people a night nor is it nowhere if you aren't 100% self-sustainable yet. Startup businesses take time and very often the ones that survive are the ones that are flexible enough to adapt to whatever is put into their path. Your career in music might not look like the one you envision. God knows when I was a nineteen and getting my first tattoo I thought I was going to be in a touring band for the rest of my life.
The biggest lesson I think I ever learned about the business or probably even life in general (and it hit me like a ton of bricks) was when I interviewed an old band mate of mine who had gone on to be very successful. He said quite simply "I haven't done anything different in 15 years". It was when I realized that I had never worked towards anything with consistent daily effort for more than 2-3 years without losing my focus that I lost my right to bitch.
5c. Black and White Thinking (The Industry)
Perhaps the most stunning example of black and white thinking for musicians is the way they interact with or react to the industry. A large percentage of the musicians I encounter either despise the industry for reasons that don't seem to be well articulated or are enamored with the industry and desperate for the attention, validation and information that these executives may or may not really have.
I know I am not stating anything that isn't obvious but sometimes stating the obvious is helpful. Simply put- record label executives, music managers, music supervisors, booking agents and music publishers are really just people like any other group of people. There are those who are brilliant and others who are dim, those who are really good and caring and others who seem to be fashioned out of pure evil. Why mention this? I guess because it's important to have some perspective on what elicits such strong feelings from the musician community. Mind you, I'm not saying anyone's feelings are unjustified but I do believe they could often be tempered with a bit of perspective that might make things feel a bit less personal and unpleasant.
So why demonize the music industry? Yes- there are many people out there who prey on the entrepreneurial hope of musicians- so please be careful. The monetary losses aside it would just take one of these awful experiences to sour anyone on the music business and / or humankind in general. It's a bit more subtle than that though. Everyone knows going in that there are long odds in "making it" in the classic sense of the term otherwise everyone would be a famous musician. That said when artist and executive partnerships don't work out both sides like to play the blame game. Can executives poorly handle and in fact harm an artist's career? Sure. Can music executives do everything right and still have an artist not connect to an audience in a meaningful way? Yes- Absolutely. So is it the fault of the industry if things don't work out?
Even if there were no industry this is a game of long odds so what good would finding someone or something to blame really do for you? One thing is for sure if a partnership doesn't work out and the artist gives up on music as a result (this is far more common that you would think) - that is not the industry's fault.
As for executives who have gatekeeper jobs like music supervisors and A&R executives - well - these people are easy to resent. I know first hand- I've been both. These are weird jobs and it is a difficult balance to even inquire about someone's music without feeling like you are leading them on. People who hold these roles often feel like being too personable isn't in their best interest. It is overwhelming and uncomfortable to always question what people's motives are when they are being friendly. Yes- these types of people can do significant things for your career and are worth pursuing relationships with provided you are spending much more time connecting with people who buy music and tickets. Keep in mind with gatekeepers that their decision isn't personal. They select artists not always based on talent but on what would fit their needs at that moment in time. Also keep in mind that these people have to spend a huge amount of their time making sure they play politics with clients or senior executives to ensure that they keep their gigs so it's not as comfortable as it may appear from the outside.
Why Be Enamored with the Music Industry? Well, in truth, I don't think you should be enamored with the industry nor do I think that you should believe they have the holy grail of music and marketing promotional ideas for developing artists. I think many of the strengths in the industry are centered around maintaining or growing existing brands rather than developing new ones. This is no one's fault really- one never knows if a new artist will convert fans when exposed to new audiences. This being the case I think many musicians put too much time and effort into looking for partners and industry help rather than in figuring out much of their development on their own.
I remember signing my first band at Lava / Atlantic when I was about twenty-four. I was thrilled because not only did I really believe in the group but I was beyond excited to have a first hand look at what really went in to marketing and promoting a band. I had all the knowledge that a total of two years being an A&R assistant and whatever I learned from self-managing a band I was in at college at my disposal. Through the process I learned the following (and not much else):
1) People and opportunities will flock to an artist that is perceived to be on the cusp of success and the same people and opportunities will vanish when people think a project isn't going anywhere. (The phrase "Success has a thousand fathers" comes to mind)
2) An interesting press story (even ten years ago) is not "Artist releases Record" the best publicists will help pull a story out of the soul of an artist and make it interesting before even making a call to the press.
3) Marketing plans seem to compile existing information, cover very general objectives and often present more questions than answers.
4) Publishing splits between band members should be made while the money is theoretical. Real money on the table can make things very ugly.
5) The more I learned about radio promotion - the less I understood it and the more I resented it.
6) The vast majority of industry people I encountered at the time had never played a live show after high school let alone gigged regularly. As such, they weren't much help with grass roots and developing artists.
When I say that was all I learned - I'm not exaggerating much. I met some interesting people along the way but as far as the information I found it was a major disappointment. I kept on thinking there was going to be some great reveal. There never was and I have yet to find one even twelve years later. It has been a series of little pieces of information that have been the most helpful to me over the years.
Many people in the industry are capable of guiding an established business. Very few are willing or able to build one from scratch. Long story short (Too Late?) The Industry like most things is never as good as it seems and never as bad as it seems. Industry relationships are worth pursuing but I'm of the opinion that such relationships are of much more value to the artist who has developed even a small following than those who have yet to build one.
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Rick Goetz is a music consultant and musician coach by way of a fifteen year career at major record labels and various online and television projects. For more articles like this you can visit his website
musiciancoaching.com .
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