Music Promotion, Marketing and Distribution Newsletter

July 2015

The contacts listed are sorted into FIVE sections:

1. Publications, Review Websites and Music Blogs that will REVIEW your music
2. Radio Stations, Shows and Podcasts that will PLAY your songs
3. Labels, Vendors, Distributors and Promotional Services that will help you to SELL your CD
4. Websites 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

Skope Magazine
PH: 339-293-7957
Michael Friedman mfriedman@skopemagazine.com
www.skopemag.com
Covers and engages an audience of music enthusiasts with diverse music coverage for the digital age.

Indie Habit
www.indiehabit.com
Your place to find, share and indulge your indie passion. Read or write music reviews or anything about the music business. We want to thank you musicians for creating something unique and so much better than what is being presented in the main stream! Independent music is truly what we enjoy and so it's in our best interest to support it in as many ways as possible! We are currently accepting submissions for Alternative, Rock, Metal, Pop, Country, Americana and Folk. More genres will open up as soon as there are reviewers available. Submit your music link via our ONLINE form. @IndieHabit

NoisePorn
2318 Cypress Cove #102, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
editor@noiseporn.com
www.noiseporn.com
An online showcase for Underground Dance Music. Today, NoisePorn has become an outlet for musical diversity, thriving on featuring brand new, emerging artists making their way onto the scene before their big break. Hailed as one of the Best Electronic Music blogs by DJZ, our top priority is to provide you with an escape through good music that you can share with the world. Disconnect from the ordinary and let us show you what a climax of musical excitement feels like. Submit your music via our ONLINE form. @noiseporn

Out of the Woodwork
Chancy Johnson chancy@chancyjohnson.com
www.chancyjohnson.com
Are you spreading love and quality work around the entertainment industry or in your community? If so, we'd love to take a look at your stuff! Submitting to Out of the Woodwork is easy, just shoot the following information to my e-mail address: SUBJECT: Name/Type of Work (i.e. singer / band / actor / dancer / photographer etc.). 1. A short bio telling us who you are, where you're from, and what you do. 2. Links to your work. Music Videos, short films, IMDB pages, web portfolio, Soundcloud, etc. 3. Any information regarding a positive impact you have had (or hope to have) on the world. 4. (optional) Include your favorite guest from our past interviews. Preference is given to people who have actually taken a look through our site. We look forward to exploring your work and helping you build your fan base!

Thirty86.com
Thirty86@gmail.com
www.thirty86.com
Provides the ultimate platform for Hip Hop and R&B artists seeking exposure to an array of industry tastemakers and fans alike. If you have what it takes and are ready to display your talent to the world submit your music today!

SECTION TWO: RADIO STATIONS, SHOWS AND PROMOTERS

2.1 RADIO - STATIONS AND SHOWS

Rebel Radio
Scott Davidson chicagorebelradio@yahoo.com
www.rebelradio.com
The Hardest Station In The Nation! We have been crushing Metal tunes on the air since 1994. New interviews are happening daily, so tune in to get the latest on new bands from here in Chicago to as far as Japan. @rebelradiocom

In Search of a Song - PRX Radio
PO Box 1424, Bloomington, IN 47402
www.insearchofasong.com
With thorough in-depth interviews, full length songs, and exclusive live performances, In Search of a Song seeks to explore the minds and creative processes of great musical artists of our time. Jason Wilber is the longtime lead guitarist for John Prine, as well as performing solo concerts, as well with various other world class musicians such as Iris DeMent, Greg Brown, Todd Snider, and Hal Ketchum to name a few. Our interviews are conducted in a relaxed, conversational style by host and musician Jason Wilber, executive producer Rich Reardin, and occasional guest hosts. Wilber's experiences as a professional musician, and his prior relationships and associations with many of the guest artists, allow him to relate to the interviewees not as a journalist, but instead as a fellow musician and songwriter. Submissions must be made through Sonicbids www.sonicbids.com/in-search-of-a-song

Melodies In Mind - CJSF
Jen LeFranc melodiesinmind@gmail.com
www.melodiesinmindproductions.com
A groovy radio show featuring live on-air Acoustic music acts. We are always on the lookout to promote meaningful music from socially-inspired musicians-singers, lyricists, and instrumentalists-spanning the genres of Folk, Rock, Soul, Blues, what have you.

The Metal Meltdown - Leaf Pile Radio
DJ Shades shadesradio2013@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/LPmetalmeltdown
DJ Shades runs from the "old school" Metal scene, bringing his knowledge of bands and music from the past all the way up to today! Dj Shades also is a HUGE supporter of local, regional and national acts, always looking for the next big breakout band! @LPmetalmeltdown

Indie Music 101 - Veterans Truth Network
PH: 615-662-6870
Doug Diamond info@diamondiscaudio.com
www.veteranstruthnetwork.com
On the show, Doug talks everything music business and provides tips and great information for musicians trying to feel their way through the business side of music, as well as has great guest interviews (artists, producers, other music supervisors, music entrepreneurs, industry folk, etc.), plays lots of indie music and gives concise verbal analyzation of song placement/synch potential based on songwriting and production value. @diamondisc

Women Of Substance Radio
Bree Noble womenofsubstanceradio@gmail.com
www.wosradio.com
An online radio station garnering fans from all over the world. WOSRadio plays the BEST female artists, both label and indie, in all genres. We take submissions from indies and our review board selects only the best quality artists and songs that can stand up next to female superstars of yesterday and today. Listen at www.rdo.to/wosradio or download our FREE branded Mobile App on Apple & Android Devices. Search for "Women of Substance" in your App Store.

Live from the Hellhouse - Leaf Pile Radio
Dae Noctem daenoctem@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/anadaenia
The music style played on Leaf Pile is extremely eclectic. Although I'm a Goth chick at heart I will play anything from Pop to Rock to slash off your face Metal in a given night. It all depends on my mood. I also have a HUGE soft spot for mashups since I love to see what happens when to completely different artists get smushed together. The results are hilarious. If you're in an indie project/band please contact me and I'll get you on the air. @daenoctem

The Indie Authority
Lucia P. lperegrim@theindieauthority.com
www.theindieauthority.com
We're always looking for emerging artists to submit their songs for radio airplay! The goal of the station is to provide exposure for awesome bands who just need help finding their audience. The station is here to help local acts from across the US and even world to have their music heard and build their fan base. Our station requires all music submissions to be in MP3 format with the appropriate ID3 tags embedded. We are extremely eager to have your music a part of our rotation.

Time in the Study - WUML
www.facebook.com/timeinthestudy
Broadcasting from his own private study, WUML's own DJ Dad likes to unwind by playing the hottest in local and worldly underground and indie music. Join him for two hours of great music and even greater dad jokes! @DJDadWUML

Leaf Pile Radio
leafpileradio@gmail.com
www.leafpileradio.com
Hard Rock and Metal internet radio. We provide the best online Rock radio & video, exclusive interviews, live DJs plus remasters of both classic & unsigned tracks!

KSCR - U. Southern California
4728 N. Peck Rd. Ste. A, El Monte, CA 91732
http://www.radiokscr.com
Submit your music through our ONLINE form. @KSCRRADIO

New Driven Radio
Sherry Sabine NewDriven@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/NewDrivenRadio
The NEW DRIVEN shows bring the hottest professional level independent rock to syndicated radio. Our weekly shows feature the best in emerging Soft Rock, Hard Rock, Alt Rock, Pop, Acoustic, Folk Rock, Punk & Melodic Metal. NEW DRIVEN also produces a weekly talk show that focuses on professional independent artists and a live show with call-in interviews and guest co-hosts. Artists on our shows are full-time musicians, (or nearing that step) with a rigorous touring schedule We spin newer release original music. @NewDriven

Fuego Beats Radio
Fuego info@fuegobeats.com
www.fuegobeats.com
Broadcasts a distinctive blend of talk radio interviews with a mix of Hip Hop, Pop and R&B music from emerging musicians. Topics range from celebrity gossip to controversial issues relevant to a modern society, as well as pop culture. Submit your music via our ONLINE FORM. Send us an e-mail if you would like to be considered for an interview. @WFBS981

2.2 RADIO PROMOTERS

CIMG, LLC
119 Bowling Ave. Nashville, TN 37205-2357
Tony Bates contact@cimgllc.com
www.cimgllc.com
Our Radio Promotion work focuses on relevant radio stations (terrestrial and online), especially college radio stations, in the U.S., Canada and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Our staff works daily to build relationships with radio stations, regional promoters, music/entertainment publications and websites, and media outlets throughout North America as well as in eastern and central Europe. We work mostly with Rock, Pop-Rock, Americana and Alt-Country artists. facebook.com/cimgllc

Howard Rosen Promotion
521 W. Channel Islands Blvd. #15, Port Hueneme, CA 93041
PH: 805-382-2200 FX: 805-201-7816
info@howiewood.com
www.howiewood.com
Since 1985 We have been helping artists reach their goals of obtaining radio airplay, expanding their fan base, and creating awareness throughout the industry. @Howiewoodpromo

SECTION THREE: SERVICES/VENDORS/LABELS THAT WILL HELP SELL YOUR MUSIC

3.1 SERVICES - PROMOTION/PUBLICITY

Countdown Entertainment
110 W. 26th St., New York, NY 10001-6805
PH: 212-645-3068 FX: 212-989-6459
James Citkovic countdownEnt@netzero.com
www.CountdownEntertainment.com
James Citkovic, president of Countdown Entertainment brokers Intellectual Properties, including major Music Publishing Catalogues and Masters of Gold and Platinum Recording Artists. James has secured numerous Catalogue deals for such properties as: Lynyrd Skynyrd and Blackfoot; The Ramones; Irene Cara; and most recently, he sold a Jimi Hendrix/Curtis Knight catalogue to SONY, to name a few. If you are interested in buying or selling a publishing or masters catalogue or a music-related company with a substantial Earnings history, contact James for more information. In addition, James Citkovic provides non-exclusive, non-commission-based personal music Consultancy services designed to assist artists, songwriters, producers, and composers with their careers, as well as artist managers and Indie labels by providing advice, guidance, artist development and opportunities to secure recording and publishing deals, Int'l music licensing, TV & Film placements and product distribution in the Pacific Rim territories (Japan, Korea, China). Those interested in these services, contact James for more information. Serious inquiries only, please.

OURGIG.COM
PH: 800-431-1258
Frank Moten eservices@ourgig.net
www.ourgig.com
For more than 14 years, musicians, models, actors, photographers, agents, record labels and many more have been depending on the reliable services provided by OURGIG.COM to create, maintain and market their web image to the world. Websites, PR & publicity and it's affordable! @ourgig

AAA Entertainment
www.aaaentertainment.com.au
A full service artist representation company that focuses on developing and building artists' careers from the ground up. The Brisbane (Australia) based company prides itself on its work with its roster of artists from the very early stages of their careers, laying the foundations necessary for a successful future within the music business. We operate with a high level of passion and integrity and exclusively choose clients we believe in and we limit our roster to provide the highest level of personal service for those we represent. Our strategy is simple: whether it's a CD release, tour, local show, festival or other newsworthy event, we develop campaigns targeting our client's assets and provide numerous opportunities for impact. Possessing a strong list of national contacts built upon mutual respect, we specifically target media who cater to what we are sending, therefore encouraging coverage. We strive to provide the level of artist development that's necessary to succeed in the music industry today. @marcmancini

Tsunami Publicity & Marketing
2701 Lawrence St., Denver, CO 80205
PH: 303-442-1139
info@tsunamipublicity.com
www.tsunamipublicity.com
Creative in nature, we intentionally maintain a small roster of independent musicians and event promoters, allowing us to provide a greater depth in our coverage, and attention to detail that is second to none. By working with high caliber freelance artists and copywriters we are able to provide greatly enhanced services for a lower monthly rate than our competitors. We hand pick our music based clients based on a strong history of touring, a growing fan base and name recognition. If you would like to submit your music for consideration, please note the following required criteria: 1. Playing more than 175 shows a year in more than one region. 2. Professional booking representation. 3. A working EP or studio album for placement. 4. Professional press photo. @TsunamiPR

CIMG, LLC
119 Bowling Ave. Nashville, TN 37205-2357
Tony Bates contact@cimgllc.com
www.cimgllc.com
We provide Social Media Marketing and Social Commerce Solutions for our clients, in addition to Artist Management and Record Label Services. We work with artists, record labels, agencies, events, and brands of all kinds that want to effectively engage their supporters and fans via social media. Considering the global marketplace and international appeal, we offer our services in several languages as well, when appropriate to meet your goals. We work mostly with Rock, Pop-Rock, Americana and Alt-Country artists. facebook.com/cimgllc

IndiePower.com
PH: 818-505-1836
info@indiepower.com
www.indiepower.com
Started by industry veterans to further the goal of helping develop the cutting edge of new artists and labels with innovative marketing and talent. Combining 25+ years of valuable experience with an arsenal of talents and a passion for breaking albums and artists, Indie Power is about to add a few new pages to the history books! @indie_power

3.2 SERVICES - LABELS, DISTRIBUTORS AND ONLINE VENDORS

CD Baby Digital Distribution
13909 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230
cdbaby@cdbaby.com
www.cdbaby.com
As an Apple-approved aggregator, CD Baby can deliver you to Apple Music quickly! CD Baby has been proud partners with Apple since the launch of iTunes more than a decade ago, and we're excited to help hundreds of thousands of artists around the world get their music onto Apple's new streaming service. If you've included streaming services in your distribution through CD Baby, your music is already at Apple Music. If you have not opted in for streaming, or if you have new music you'd like to see on Apple Music, now is the time! Log into your account today to review your distribution settings or sign up a new title. Please note: We do not accept attachments via e-mail. @cdbaby

SECTION FOUR: SITES WHERE YOU CAN UPLOAD YOUR BAND'S MP3s OR VIDEOS

The Bongo Boy Rock 'N' Roll TV
507 Rte. 46, Ste. A, Belvidere, NJ 07823
PH: 908-455-1576
Monique Grimme bongoboytv@aol.com
www.bongoboytv.com
An unprecedented TV series that brings quality indie music videos to over 3.5 million cable subscribers in the United States. The series has placed acts on 20 television channels on publicly accessed giants such as NBC, NBC Comcast, FiOS, Time Warner Cable, RCN , AT&T and Cablevision. The show airs at prime time, 6 days a week for a total of 125 times on 20 Channels. Cities like New York and music city Nashville are only a couple of the many towns and cities which someone can watch the TV show. The focus is on educating the public about independent artists and their quest to greater success. The episode is dedicated to exposing the arts to new and old fans alike by featuring original music videos from around the world from talented indie artists. submit your OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO to our e-mail address. The Bongo Boy Rock n' Roll is on 20 Television channels, 6 days a week, 125 times in 4 weeks on prime time. Bongo Boy TV is more then a cyber channel we are real Television. If we select your submission, all submissions then must be, without exception, be accompanied by a fully completed and signed music video license agreement form and a full payment of $100.00 as a sponsorship/donation* Otherwise your video will not be aired on TV. facebook.com/bongoboytv

Vessel
http://www.vessel.com
The home for digital storytellers and the fans who love them. Independent creators like you make videos that connect with fans around the world - just like the best of TV. Release your videos early on Vessel (for as little as 72 hours). After the subscription early access period for Vessel members, distribute your videos to audiences everywhere. The free web treats every view equally. On Vessel, your superfans get exclusive, early access in a premium environment. During the early access period, you get 60% of subscription dollars and 70% of advertising dollars. We estimate that videos will earn approximately $50 per 1,000 views while in early access. This is up to 20x more per view than creators earn from free web distribution. @Vessel

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

MAGNIFI
artists@magnifi.fm
wwwmagnifi.fm
The world's first interactive social music platform that benefits artists, venues and fans. With a patented and unique take on "local radio" and its seamless "listen to live" journey, MAGNIFI enables fans to listen to tracks selected by touring artists, and then book tickets to their concerts. Thanks to the MAGNIFI platform fans get to listen to great curated music for free, venues enjoy increased ticket sales and artists can grow their main revenue stream and serve their fans better. @magnifi_fm

SECTION SIX: HELPFUL TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR YOUR BAND

6.1 RESOURCES - GENERAL

SplashFlood
1150 1st Ave. #501, King of Prussia, PA 19406
talent@splashflood.com
www.splashflood.com
A mobile app that rewards musicians for their talent. On SplashFlood, we are building a social networking platform focused on undiscovered talent, where artists can promote themselves to a larger audience and gain validation based on their talent and motivation. This is through the unique promotional tool we've designed called the Influence Builder. In the Influence Builder, every time you as an artist, listen to and rate a song, one of your songs will be listened to and rated by another artist in your genre. Therefore, the more music you listen to as an artist, the more exposure you get. Users earn Splash Points for each positive rating they receive. The more Splash Points an artist receives, the more likely one of his or her song will end up on one of SplashFlood's featured channels. The Influence Builder gives artists the opportunity to get their music heard and validated past their own audience and the potential to rise based on the talent and motivation of the artist! @splashflood

Joint Custody Productions
PH: 615-431-9216
info@jointcustodyprod.com
www.jointcustodyprod.com
Specializes in the creation and development of various entertainment properties, including TV, movies, comic books, novels, plays and musicals, music recordings, internet-specific media and other as-yet undetermined avenues. The company also develops and produces professional-style television commercials, promotional website videos, actor reels, indie music videos, and Wordpress websites, all at affordable and competitive rates. Through years of development and production on our own projects, we at Joint Custody Productions understand how difficult it is to get your ideas filmed and into a professional-looking video. We make the process easy ??? from storyboarding to shooting, editing and final delivery ??? all in a professional-looking style that you can afford! @JCProdLLC

Showpitch
1655 N. Commerce Pkwy. #203, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33326
www.showpitch.com
There are millions of talented people hoping to be discovered. But finding new talent on the internet or social media is overwhelming, to say the least, and almost impossible. Showpitch cuts through the clutter by linking talent and industry together in a simple, seamless and effective way. Talent can create their own unique stages to shine a spotlight on their ability, Industry can search for emerging artists, and fans can enjoy incredible content while having a say in who they want to see become a star. Showpitch was created in the belief that all talent should be empowered to play an active role in the process of creating, owning and sharing entertainment. With Showpitch, your dreams are no longer a shot in the dark - but a real process you can control by designing the stage in which you share your talent with the world. @Showpitch

Festival Network Online
PO Box 18839, Asheville, NC 28814
PH: 828-658-2779 FX: 828-645-3374
Julie Cochrane julie@festivalnet.com
www.festivalnet.com
Lists more than 10,000 events throughout the U.S. and Canada seeking performers, from local & regional to national & international. @_festivalnet

6.2 RESOURCES - EDUCATIONAL

Hooktheory I
support@hooktheory.com
www.hooktheory.com
A music theory book you'll love. It explains music theory in a simple, intuitive way and answers the questions you care about: Why do certain chords fit together easily while others don't? How can I get from this chord to that chord? How can I create a great sounding melody? Our songwriting software, Hookpad, simplifies songwriting by guiding you to choose chords / notes that sound good together. It's a musical sketchpad with music theory "built-in" to make it easier and more intuitive to find the sound you're looking for. @hooktheory

Music Marketing Manifesto Blog
John Oszajca john@musicmarketingmanifesto.com
www.MusicMarketingManifesto.com
Advanced strategies, secrets, tactics and tips on selling your music online. @JohnOszajca

6.3 RESOURCES - TOOLS

Soundtrap
Box 390, 10127 Stockholm, Sweden
PH: +46-8-51970550
support@soundtrap.com
www.soundtrap.com
A user friendly, online collaboration studio for you to create music - and share it with the world! Plug in your own instrument, use the software instruments available in Soundtrap or just record a song directly with your computer microphone. It's super-easy! You can easily share your music on Facebook, Twitter and SoundCloud. @soundtrap

Snapchat
www.snapchat.com
An app used on iOS and Android smartphones. Enjoy fast and fun mobile conversation! Snap a photo or a video, add a caption, and send it to a friend. They'll view it, and then the Snap disappears from the screen ??? unless they take a screenshot. @Snapchat

MyNewsletterBuilder
comments@mynewsletterbuilder.com
www.mynewsletterbuilder.com
A user-friendly, feature-rich, online newsletter management program for novices and professionals alike.

6.4 RESOURCES - AUDIO

Peerless Mastering
1085 Commonwealth Ave. #322, Boston, MA 02215
PH: 617-527-2200
info@peerlessmastering.com
www.peerlessmastering.com
Dedicated to providing the highest quality restoration. We offer the highest quality stereo and 5.1 pre-mastering, CD, CD Enhanced, and DVD-A authoring and full audio restoration. Our staff is exceptional at giving our clients the best quality and service, guiding them through the final phase of their sonic process with ease and expertise. We are uniquely equipped to provide the highest quality mastering available anywhere. We have the expertise, equipment, and skills to achieve the full sound potential of your album. As more and more artists are choosing to record in project and home studios, high-quality professional mastering in an acoustically accurate room has never been more important. Working at Peerless' state-of-the-art studios with our highly trained engineers, you can realize your sonic vision and make your recording sound as full, warm, punchy, and clear as possible. We will guide you through every step of this final phase of your project, and you will be truly amazed when you hear how incredible your music can sound. @PeerlessMaster

6.5 RESOURCES - ORGANIZATIONS

Women's International Music Network
Laura B. Whitmore news@TheWiMN.com
www.thewimn.com
Our mission is to create a hub to connect women in all facets of the music industry. You are not alone! We present news about female musicians, projects relating to women in the industry, products targeted to female musicians, and so much more! Please send your news and event info to our e-mail address. @the_wimn

SongTown
Clay Mills clay@Songtown.com
www.songtown.com
We created Songtown to give creative people positive community and encouragement to grow in their craft. Our goal is to help each of you reach your songwriting goals and to become your friend on that journey. Learn from hit songwriters, producers & publishers. Online classes. Find collaborators. @SongTownUSA

SECTION SEVEN: THIS MONTH'S ARTICLE

Booking Agents Reveal Tour Strategies that Work
by Bernard Baur, Music Connection Magazine
© 2017 All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission

1. AGENCY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS (APA)
Adam Brill, Agent
www.apa-agency.com

Founded in 1962 by former MCA executives, Agency for the Performing Arts is one of the largest diversified talent agencies in the Untied States, with headquarters in Beverly Hills, Nashville and New York. Adam Brill's work with up-and-coming artists includes booking Imagine Dragons during the band's early years, plotting strategic touring for AWOLNATION in support of that act's now double-platinum success, and taking Capital Cities to the next level as they played for thousands at festivals and scored a supporting slot on Katy Perry's summer tour.

Would you be attracted to an act that hasn't toured extensively?

It depends on what I see. If I'm passionate about them and see growth potential, I might take them on and develop their market. Of course, it's easier if they already have something going on, like a record deal, publishing deal, manager and so on. In fact, most acts we work with at this agency have those things.

What's the key to booking tours?

You need to think one step ahead all the time. So if you're booking a show now, right before you book that show you need to know what your next step is going to be in that market down the road. It's almost like you're planning forward. It's more about the long-term picture than short-term gains.

How should a new act's initial tours be planned?

I like to focus on the act's home market first. Then, I would expand regionally. There's no reason for an emerging act, that's not yet established, to tour the whole country, or even several states. They probably couldn't afford it anyway.

How do most acts finance their first tours?

They save money from their jobs or borrow from friends and relatives. Sponsorships come into play a little further down the line, after the act has gained some exposure and built a buzz. Sometimes a label will help, but they're very specific regarding which tours they'll support. It has to be big enough and in a market they value.

Have performance fees changed much?

They sure have... Now, a lot of promoters, especially with newer acts, will offer a percentage deal rather than a guarantee. Nowadays, you have to prove yourself before they're willing to pay you. And that could be disastrous if you don't promote your shows well enough.

Do you have a case study act?

It's Capital Cities, an electro-pop-rock-dance act. When I saw them they were just doing clubs, and were starting to get some radio play. I initially followed the airplay and analyzed their social media to determine where they should tour. At first I only booked a few shows because I didn't want to exhaust the market too soon. Eventually we progressed to larger and larger venues, with capacities increasing from 200 to 500 to over 1,000. It took about a year and their single exploded.

Do you have to see a live show before working with an act?
I'm really big on seeing the act play live. It's a pretty big indicator of where they are and where they can go. I need to see it and feel it before I take them on. It's about having the ears and eyes to know that if they tour for a good amount of time--really work at it and hone their craft--they could be playing for 5,000 or more people after a year or so.

What would turn you off about an act?

An artist who isn't a team player can be frustrating. If they're not willing to do what it takes to make it as a touring act, I can't help them. I won't argue with them--that's not very constructive. I just won't work with them.

2. COLLIN ARTISTS
Barbara Collin, Founder, Agent
www.collinartists.com

Collin Artists is a boutique company, which enables it to provide a high level of individual attention to established and emerging artists. The company books national and international tours in a variety of venues, including festivals, concerts and clubs. Agency founder Barbara Collin is a faculty instructor at the Musicians Institute where she teaches a class called "Agents & Bookings." Collin also offers a variety of informative workshops and seminars on a regular basis.

What changes have you noticed in the booking and touring business?

After 30 years I've seen a lot of changes. The biggest one involves economics. The marketplace has gotten very tight. Guarantees are down and it's harder than ever to book acts that aren't household names. As a result, it takes a lot more time and effort to book tours that make sense.

Do agents generally specialize in certain genres and acts?

Often it ends up that way when you have success in specific markets. It's just not possible to be an expert in every one of them. It takes time and research to familiarize yourself with the different needs and opportunities each market presents. My areas of expertise include jazz, world, Latin and R&B. But, every once in a while, if you're lucky, you'll come across acts that are so good they take you out of your comfort zone.

Did you ever have an act take you out of your comfort zone?

Yes--it's my "case study" act, a doo-wop a cappella group called Street Corner Renaissance. I was out one day when I heard them singing. They were so good I had to get to know them. I learned that they played local gigs and entered a couple contests. After talking with them, I was sold and offered to work with them--even though I knew nothing about the doo-wop or a cappella markets.

How did you develop your case study act?

I worked with them on their performance and honed their brand. I wanted to get them as much exposure as possible. It took a few years, but I managed to take them from local bookings to national tours and, eventually, had them opening for big name acts.

Were there any challenges you had to overcome?

Yes. Most doo-wop fans like to see known acts that have had hits. But SCR was not a known act. They covered hit songs and had a few originals of their own.

I sold them to promoters by explaining how exciting and fresh their musical approach and live shows were. That got them enough bookings to start them on a roll.

How can artists attract a booking agent?

They need basic tools: a recording, a website, an EPK and a performance video. It's also nice if they have a team around them to help out, like a manager, publicist and attorney. But, most of all, they must be pro-active--they have to work at it and have some idea of what they want. It is also very helpful if they have some touring experience and know which markets we should focus on.

How should a new indie act approach touring?

They should find out everything they can about their market. They can use social media analytics to see where there's a demand. Additionally, new acts need to do a "tour circuit???which means they must return within a reasonable time. That's how you build a fan base and get established. One-offs are a waste and will not sustain fans.

What are the biggest mistakes artists make when contacting you?

They don't do their homework. They need to do research before submitting material. They need to find agents and markets that suit their genre. And, they need to be patient, because it can take a while before any decisions are made.

3. ARTISTS WORLDWIDE
Chris Maggiore, President, Agent
www.artists-worldwide.com

Founded in 1999, Artists Worldwide is a talent agency located in Los Angeles with over 50 acts on its roster, including Gilby Clark (G'NR), Puddle of Mudd, Misfits, Yngwie Malmsteen and many more. With over 18 years of experience, Chris Maggiore is the co-owner and president of the agency.

What changes have you noticed in the marketplace?

Fans are not spending as much or going to as many shows. The economy has really affected the tour market, and the competition for dollars is fierce. As a result, some guarantees are not as high as they used to be. Nowadays, you have to be creative in your negotiations to make it work for everyone.

Is there any market that's still strong?

Yes...artists that appeal to a niche market are holding steady. Acts like the Misfits, punk rock acts and ???80s rockers are doing well. Their guarantees are pretty consistent.

How do you find your talent?

Most of the acts on our roster came to us through prior relationships. I'll hear about artists from managers, labels and even acts we have on our roster. It is almost always by recommendation.

Do you have a case study act?

I did... but not anymore. They were a Swedish band that I wanted to develop in the U.S. market. They had never been to America before, but I took a chance anyway because I liked the music and the players. We were doing pretty well in certain markets and were starting to get some traction. But before I could break them in this country--they broke up. Now, it's not worth naming them, since they don't exist. You know, it's a tough business and you can't win unless everyone's on the same page.

Were you always an agent?

I started out at record labels. I got to work the whole angle there. In that environment, I learned that you had to let everybody know about your acts and get them excited about doing something for them. That was an important experience and good practice for being an agent. As an agent you also try to get people excited about your acts so they will book them.

Are international tours harder to book?

Not really, because overseas you deal with fewer promoters. One promoter may cover several territories. In the United States, other than the large companies like Live Nation and AEG, promoters frequently work in a small regional market. So, you tend to deal with a lot of different people across the country.

What is your opinion of "Buy-Ons"?

It depends... if you're buying on a giant tour, it could get expensive. And, if you're going on at 6:30--hours before the headliner???you're wasting money. Sometimes acts will approach us to buy-on a tour or a stop with one of our artists. When that happens I'll talk with the act (or their manager) and see what they think. In that situation, it can be another form of tour income.

What would cause you to drop an act?

If they have unrealistic expectations or are lazy, it can cause problems. If their tour ideas make no sense or their guarantee demands are not realistic, it will be impossible to please them.

To be successful in this business, you not only have to be realistic and honest about yourself, you also have to work your butt off to make it.

4. COAST TO COAST MUSIC / THE COOL SCHOOL
Chris Fletcher, CEO, Tour Coordinator
www.thecoolschool.biz

Coast to Coast Music specializes in planning, organizing and booking tours in the college and festival markets. Chris Fletcher is a music industry veteran with over 30 years of experience with indie labels, management, PR, promotions and tour planning. She teaches "Getting Gigs" and "The Touring Musician" at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA, and co-founded The Cool School, which presents lectures, seminars and workshops at affordable prices.

How is your company different from a typical booking agency?

We're a boutique operation that encompasses more than simply booking tours. We like working with new and upcoming talent. We educate and develop them so that they can enjoy financial and musical success. It can take some time, but we have a passion for music and try to keep our roster small enough so that all of our acts get the attention they deserve.

Where should an act tour?

They should initially focus on where a demand is???if there is any. If there's little or no demand, they should start by doing small regional tours around their home base and expand from there. In fact, the college market is a regional market. Most importantly, though, artists should plan to return to the places where they were most successful--every two to three months--or their fans will forget them.

What can artists expect to make on the road?

First of all, touring [for an up-and-coming band] is a promotional activity. Artists tour to expose their music and live performances to new fans. With that said, it can take a while--a year or two--before they start to make real money. You have to be established [in a market] to command large fees. Even so, I won't book a tour unless it at least breaks even. It makes no sense to go on the road and lose money. That's why you should always book an "anchor" gig first--one that will cover most of your expenses--and plan a route around it.

How can you predict expenses?

Travel, food and lodging have to be taken into account. Artists should also consider tour insurance for their gear. Vans are usually $75 to $100 a day, gas can be determined with online fuel calculators and with a little bit of research you can find discounts for lodging and food coupons.

What kind of money can an act make on the college circuit?

They can make anywhere from $200 to over $1,000 per show. California has the lowest fees due to the competition with labels that offer their acts for free. If an act wants to make a living just playing music, they would have to tour six to nine months and do 150 to 200 shows.

What are the advantages of the college market?

Not only do they pay well, they also treat artists nice. Many colleges offer lodging and all of them will feed the acts. Besides, it's a great demographic of potential fans.

What is your case study act?

We Are The Big Bang... When I met them they were playing local gigs. I set up a showcase at NACA (National Association for Campus Activities) for them, which put them before hundreds of college talent buyers. I then booked street fairs, festivals, wineries and college gigs. We started small and built a buzz.

Were there any challenges in developing your case study act?

Yes .... There are six people in the group. That is a lot to put on the road, much more than I usually like. So, we tried several configurations and slowly built a strong enough presence to support so many people. Now, after a couple of years, it's doable.

How is booking for festivals different?

You have to book them long in advance--often a year. Festivals also like acts that have played events, like street fairs and other festivals. To play the large ones you have to start small and work your way up. For California artists interested in developing that market, there's a great site: at-la.com. Just click on "events" and a huge list will appear. Other states also have similar sites.

What would turn you off about an act?

Artists that don't follow up when I need them to will upset me. That's just rude and disrespectful. Even worse, acts that do a bad show will reflect negatively on me. You have to understand that my reputation is important too. If I can't maintain my integrity, with professional acts, it could make it difficult for me to book anyone.

Bernard Baur is an award-winning journalist. Credited with over 1,200 published articles in a variety of publications and general entertainment websites, he is currently Review Editor, A&R Reporter and Features Writer for Music Connection Magazine. With over 20 years in entertainment and music, Bernard has worked with superstars and emerging artists as a Director of Marketing and Promotions, Director of Business Affairs, PR Consultant, Media Liaison and A&R Executive. At Warner Bros. Entertainment, he handled marketing and copywriting for all WB products, including music, television programs, films and DVDs. As a partner in BGO Entertainment Network, he consults for record labels, entertainment firms (music, TV, and Internet) and Minarik Guitars. Bernard has appeared in documentaries; VH1, MTV and CNN specials; and is a frequent participant in music conferences and workshops across the U.S. At MI, he teaches Music Business Basics and Start & Run Your Own Record Label.

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