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
Karma Review Magazine
PO Box 211085, Milwaukee, WI 53221-8018
John Marszalkowski
MrJohnnyMarsz@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/KarmaReview
A group of music nuts are waiting to review your band's new music. We have a writer for every style! Reviews will be posted to multiple social network sites.
Music News Nashville
www.musicnewsnashville.com
We have new articles, CD reviews and interviews on the site. Visit our contact page to get in touch with one of our music reviewers.
Clown Magazine
Ste. 3, Rosden House, 372, Old Street, London, EC1V 9AU UK
office@clownmagazine.co.uk
www.clownmagazine.co.uk
Thanks to all the folks you have contacted us and to those in the industry for sending music material for reviews. We say keep it coming!
IndieShark.com
PO Box 534, Keyport, WA 98345
Markus Druery
marktheshark972@gmail.com
www.indieshark.com
We pledge to write the best music reviews in the business for independent artists everywhere. INDIESHARK.com also pledges to write fair & honest assessments of all work regardless of genere, & post the review in a timely manner. We used to charge for reviews, but reviews are now FREE.
The Christian Current
Rev. Allen navjoallen@yahoo.com
thechristiancurrent.forumotion.com
Interviews Christian/Gospel artists. Providing Christian news through our monthly publication.
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 by SCENEandHEARD.ca at least three months prior to release or launch of product.
Heavy Metal Buzz
Frank Hanley
heavymetalbuzzradio@gmail.com
www.heavymetalbuzz.com
Metal news, interviews and reviews.
TheChristianPulse.com
info@thechristianpulse.com
www.thechristianpulse.com
"A Source of Excellence - a web magazine where cutting-edge faith meets the global community." Features interviews, reviews, daily devotionals, contests, and encouraging articles focused on Christian Life.
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
Pure Indie Rock
PH: 888-245-8760
Indie@pureIndieRock.com
www.pureindierock.com/directory_submission.htm
We feature independent Rock artists and spotlight a new artist every month.
WR Music Channel
Brian
brian@womensradio.com
www.womensradio.com
Discover hundreds of the world’s finest Independent Female Musicians on the new WR Channel! With six separate, four hour long shows running seven days a week, fifty two weeks per year – sourcing selections from over 25 countries and all 50 US states in virtually every style and genre – the possibilities of discovering new music from the hottest up-and-coming indie bands and artists are limitless.
Country Fried Rock
PO Box 4110, Florence, SC 29502
info@countryfriedrock.com
www.countryfriedrock.com
One hour of conversation & music with your new favorite Americana musicians. Please do not send any attachments!
SpudShow
PH: +353872546934
Brendan spudshow@gmail.com
www.spudshow.com
Weekly podcast from Limerick, Ireland started in 2006. We feature female podsafe and indie artists.
Big Noise Radio
1659 N. Capitol Ave. #221, San Jose, CA 95132
info@bignoiseradio.com
www.bignoiseradio.com
Bringing you the very essence of Hip Hop culture and music. Big Noise Radio is the place for dope Hip Hop and Rap music, plus interviews and MP3 downloads.
WebRadioPugetSound
PO Box 1801, Eatonville, WA 98328
wrps1@comcast.net
www.webradiopugetsound.com
Helping unknowns become "known" through promotion campaigns, marketing services and FREE airplay! Visit our website to fill out your "permission to perform" document. Please note: we only accept CDs for submissions.
The Rock Shop Podcast
PH: 541-255-3845
rockshop@ideopod.com
www.ideopod.com/therockshop.html
From Rockabilly, to Punk, to Metal, many of us require Rock for survival. A team of hosts bring you the history and future of Rock Music. Sit down between gigs and recording with those that make it happen and keep the blood flowing.
Heavy Metal Buzz Radio
Frank Hanley
heavymetalbuzzradio@gmail.com
www.heavymetalbuzz.com
Streaming Hard Rock/Metal 24/7.
The Village Green: A New England Music Sampler
36 W. Main St., Warner, NH 03278
Frederick Moe fmoe@colby-sawyer.edu
villagegreennewengland.blogspot.com
Twice monthly 30 minute podcast featuring New England based musicians ONLY past and present. The Village Green airs on WSCS 90.9 in New London NH and is available for download online. Prefer Folk, Jazz, Classical, Indie pop and Indie Rock music.
Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour
attn: submissions, PO Box 200, Lexington, KY 40588
www.woodsongs.com
Our worldwide multi-media celebration of grassroots, Americana music. Get ready to explore the beautiful world of Folk, Bluegrass, Singer/Songwriter, worldwide radio, television and concerts. Artists are chosen to appear on our stage are selected because they are good. End of story. Fame, commercial success or lack there-of, who you know, who you opened for, whether you are on a label or are releasing your own CD, what famous artist used the same mixing board you recorded your latest CD on and who manages you means NOTHING. Visit our website for submission details before sending in your music.
acoustiCDigest
3A AV 290 Las Cumbres CP 64610, Monterrey Nuevo Leon MEXICO
RA Campbell
acousticdigest@yahoo.com
www.acoustiCDigest.net
Acoustic and New Age Music station. ONLY acoustic instrumentaton. NO vocals, chants or electronics.
SongVault
2260 Rutherford Rd. #111, Carlsbad, CA 92008
support@songvault.fm
www.songvault.fm
A music discovery and music certification site featuring an on demand radio network of stations for every genre possible that markets, promotes and sells the latest and most popular songs of independent/unsigned artists.
Grooveshark
www.grooveshark.com
Find new ways to share and promote your music to your fans. Use our tools to focus on your target audience and determine what they like to listen to. Sign up for Grooveshark Artists today.
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
Pirate! Promotion and Management
145 Columbia St., Cambridge MA 02139
PH: 617-256-8709
Steve Theo
steve@piratepirate.com
www.piratepirate.com
A team of music industry professionals (and more importantly fans) who strive to be the best independent music and marketing team there is. Pirate! is a music promotion, public relations, marketing and management company who works with artists, brands, record labels and others to promote their music / product / service to radio stations / writers / bloggers / tastemakers across North America.
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
A&R Select
PH: 323-924-5897
www.arselect.com
Offers artist development, publishing, and radio promotions programs giving artists the tools and connections to help them achieve their goals.
Swag City Marketing
PH: 321-207-6414
Will
Willclark@swagcitymarketing.com
www.swagcitymarketing.com
Orlando based music promotion firm specializing in R&B and Hip Hop. Contact us for details on how we can make YOU a BIG NAME IN THE GAME!
The Push Agency
18 Lagos Rd. Toronto, ON M9W 4E4
PH: 416-357-6789
Jesse O'Hara johara@thepushagency.com
www.thepushagency.com
A full service booking agency.
Latin Music Wire
Jesus Gonzalez Ortega #333, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
PH: 8180108285
Koly Siller koly@latinmusicwire.com
www.latinmusicwire.com
We create musical publicity campaigns for music professionals (bands, labels, booking agents etc.). We have a media list of 800 contacts that covers national mainstream music and entertainment media in Mexico. If you are going to sell your new release or plan to tour through Mexico, Latin Music Wire is the place for making a music campaign.
Capacity Productions
PH: 407-687-6457
Rob M.
Sales@CapacityProductions.Net
www.capacityproductions.net
Founded by musicians and industry professionals with well over a decade of experience. We work with a lot of artists on Facebook, Twitter, iTunes, Myspace, YouTube, Reverbnation and all other areas of the internet. We have helped quite a few work their way into the top ten of their genre by bringing more incoming friends, fans, likes, followers, plays and views to their profiles. If you have ever wondered how some artists get all of those incoming friends, plays and views, now you know! We also work with many models, magicians, authors and businesses of all kinds, including clubs, retail stores, restaurants, etc. to increase exposure, traffic and sales. We get results like no other!
Adarga Entertainment Group
685 E. California Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91106
PH: 626-921-4465
Henry Alonzo info@adargagroup.com
www.adargagroup.com
We provide artist development, promotion and music consulting for indie artists with a focus on Latin, Pop and Gospel.
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
Stand and Deliver Records
FX: 866-597-1250
NewMusic@StandandDeliverRecords.com
www.StandandDeliverRecords.com
An indie record label interested in all genres of music, but mainly focused on Metal and Rock. Send your MP3s to the above e-mail address.
Indieheaven
5016 Spedale Ct #181, Spring Hill, TN 37174
www.indieheaven.com
The leading independent Christian musician/artist resource agency serving thousands of indie artists non-stop since 1997. Indieheaven provides a comprehensive set of tools for bands, singers, songwriters, musicians to promote, market and distribute their music and display their content on a safe, professional and established website.
Dugout Sounds
172 5th Ave. #117, Brooklyn, NY 11217
PH: 347-875-0321 FX: 347-521-1982
Greg Lewis info@dugoutsounds.com
www.dugoutsounds.com
Independent record label/publishing company. We accept submissions of all genres.
You Rock Media Group
Dominic Cioffi
dominic.cioffi@yourockmediagroup.com
www.yourockmediagroup.com
An innovative music label that has created, protected, and begun packaging an unprecedented business model. With our uniquely formatted integration of content and media communications technology we are positioned to revolutionize entertainment, communications, and philanthropy. Furthermore, this model inspires investors AND participating audiences of nearly any age and means, with opportunities to earn equity. This model, within one - season, can elevate deserving partners and sponsor brands to an enviable and distinguished position.
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
BitTorrent Artists Pilot Program
www.bittorrent.com
We are currently accepting submissions for new, original content to feature to our community of over 80 million enthusiasts.
Songwriter's Best Song
Box 398, Hallandale, FL 33008
PH: 305-331-1070
Marilyn Kay, Administrator marilyn@songwritersbestsong.com
www.SongwritersBestSong.com/
A service that features a genre-specific directory in which any songwriter's works can be showcased and perhaps discovered, published, and recorded - without the need for the writer to mail out a single CD. Songwriters should think of this service as a link to people in the music business and other industries who now need, and are now listening for, new songs for publishing...TV...recording artists...movies...ad campaigns...computer games...live theater...and the dozens of other applications for which their songs may be used.
Tarnius Music
PO Box 888, Addison, IL 60101
PH: 888-418-8637
info@tarniusmusic.com
www.tarniusmusic.com
We provide tools for unsigned artists and independent record labels to gain exposure and sell music to customers all over the world. We work like other stores, except the musicians control their music and keep more money! We take the music directly from the independent artist and get it out to more fans, whether you want to sell CDs, sell MP3 downloads (the highest quality 320 kbps), Vinyl, DVDs, T-Shirts, or anything else. Sell your music and merchandise, keep your money - it's that simple!
Believe Digital
www.believedigital.com
The leading digital distributor and services provider for independent artists & labels in Europe. Tell us about yourself by completing the registration form on our website. Your registration and your music will be communicated to one of our A&R managers, who will get back to you within 48 hours.
Echo Republic
PH: 209-202-3246
Hello@echorepublic.com
www.echorepublic.com
Think through a typical day in your life. Grab some breakfast and head to school or work. Hit the gym on the way home. Meet up with some friends for dinner. Relax and watch some TV before bed. Now think about every time you listened to music over the course of that one day. Your alarm clock wakes you up by playing your favorite CD. Your car radio keeps you occupied during your commute. You throw on a pair of headphones on the treadmill. Every elevator, restaurant, store plays mood music. Even your cellphone alerts you of an incoming call by playing the newest hit song. When music is so present in your life, shouldn't it do more than just linger in the background? Founded in 2009, Echo Republc is dedicated to changing the way people look at music ownership. Part music sharing, part e-commerce, Echo Republic strives to return the power of the music industry to its two most important members: the artists and their fans.
Hello Music
www.hellomusic.com
We want outstanding songs to pitch to music supervisors, so we can help great musicians make money, grow their fan bases, and get their music in movies, TV shows, video games, commercials and retail stores. Upload your music now to HelloMusic.com for a shot at getting your songs in front of millions - and some money in your pocket.
MusicRevolution
www.musicrevolution.com
The Internet's production music marketplace. We provide customers with great royalty-free production, or stock, music at affordable prices. We provide musicians with the opportunity to sell their production music while learning from and collaborating with the best in the music community. We believe that a music marketplace should provide value to both the buyers and sellers of production music.
TrackTesting
4 Kassala Rd. London, SW11 4HN UK
info@tracktesting.com
www.tracktesting.com
Offers a unique service for unsigned bands and artists. You get the opportunity to upload your music for testing, which means that your track is sent to 200-300 of our many thousand testers from all over the world. The testers listen to your song and give it a score and a comment, and you will receive a full test report with invaluable information. The strength of the test report comes from the segmentation of our testers, who are divided according to age, gender, geographical location, music taste etc., which gives you, as a musician, a detailed overview of what you can do even better with regard to your music and who your greatest fans are.
SongVest
PH: 919-848-0445
info@songvest.com
www.songvest.com
We've created a new patent pending venue for the trading of artists' intellectual and commercial property—their song rights and associated royalty streams. The reserve price will be mutually determined by you and SongVest management after careful review of your song’s royalty history.
Loopmasters
www.loopmasters.com
The number one website dedicated to providing 100% Royalty Free Sample Libraries for Producers Worldwide from the best Sample Labels on the Planet. Search, Audition and Buy with confidence, and use the inspiration supplied from some of the worlds Top Producers to take your music to the next level!
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: HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR YOUR BAND
5.1 RESOURCES - GENERAL
OrlandoBands.com
PH: 321-202-0011
Ben Gardner
bengardner@orlandobands.com
www.OrlandoBands.com
A networking hub that allows local and regional artist to come together with local industry professionals and build our music and arts scene. By working with other entities in town such as studios, publications, entertainment lawyers, etc., we can forge a working platform and stable basis to connect and achieve our goals as musicians. Our online directory is free to use and submit to.
Living My Dreams TV Show
PO Box 12706, St. Petersburg, FL 33733
Swiyyah Muhammad
swiyyah@swiyyah.com
www.swiyyah.com/swiyyah-tv
Features music and interviews with Tampa artists.
MI2N-PRESS - Press Release Copywriting Service
PH: 718-619-8554
www.mi2n.com/services/mi2n_press.php3
If you're in the music industry, whether you're an executive or an artist who's just starting out, you'll have music news to convey. It can be quite a daunting task to write a press release, but you don't have to guess about whether you're doing it correctly or not because Mi2N-PRESS is here to help. We can provide you with a professionally written press release, in a timely manner and with a special touch that conveys your unique brand. Whether you're successful in the music business can sometimes be a matter of luck, but your press release doesn't have to be.
Young Guitar Magazine
148-7 Hayukashimo Ayagawa-cho Ayauta-gun Kagawa-ken 761-2308 Japan
PH/FX: 81-087-876-4324
Toshi Mori
udonsanuki67@yahoo.co.jp
www.young-guitar-japan.com
A Japanese magazine presenting features and interviews with super guitarists from around the world.
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.
5.2 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.
5.3 RESOURCES - MASTERING
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.
5.4 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).
5.5 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...
5.6 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!
5.7 RESOURCES - EDUCATIONAL
creativecommons.asia
creativecommons.asia
This is a regional Creative Commons project highlighting the activities, images and news from CC jurisdictions in Asia.
Creative Commons is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to making it easier for people to share and build upon the work of others, consistent with the rules of copyright. We provide free licenses and other legal tools to mark creative work with the freedom the creator wants it to carry, so others can share, remix, use commercially, or any combination thereof.
LoopTV
info@looptv.net
www.looptv.net
The music production video channel for producers, musicians and DJs. Watch producer interviews, music software tutorials, and music technology news & reviews, as we take you into the studios of some of the best music makers on the planet.
The California Copyright Conference
PO Box 57962, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413
PH: 818-379-3312
attn@theccc.org
www.theccc.org
Established in 1953 for the discussion of copyright-related areas pertaining to music and entertainment. Today, the scope of the CCC has expanded to cover all matters pertaining to music industry issues. The organization has grown to over 300 members from all areas of the music and entertainment industry, including publishers, songwriters, attorneys, representatives from trade publications, performing rights societies, motion pictures, television, multimedia, Internet, and record companies.
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
5.8 RESOURCES - TOOLS
SoundCloud
contact@soundcloud.com
www.soundcloud.com
Lets you move music fast & easy. The platform takes the daily hassle out of receiving, sending & distributing music for artists, record labels & other music professionals.
Backbone Networks
www.backboneradio.com
Software to create your own internet radio network. The power of Internet Radio is in network affiliation, and a real Internet Radio Network involves sharing. You can create your own network of stations and together reach listeners in all parts of the world, whether on computers or iPhones. Whether you belong to a group of churches, companies or other organizations, you can rely on your Internet radio network to carry your message to your audience.
PledgeMusic
1-5 Exchange Ct. Covent Garden, London, WC2R 0JU UK
PH: +44 (0) 207-420-4355
info@pledgemusic.com
www.pledgemusic.com
Provides fans and artists the opportunity to work together to make new records and raise money for charity. By combining new social networking technology, old school music biz know how and an irresistible menu of exclusive incentives, fans can visit the site to hear great new music, enjoy and share unique experiences with the artists they love and actively participate in the release process.
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.
5.9 RESOURCES - ONLINE COMMUNITIES/ORGANIZATIONS
RocketHub
www.RocketHub.com
A grassroots crowdfunding platform. We provide the credibility and infrastructure necessary to successfully leverage the financial power of your community and launch creative projects and endeavors. 1. A Creative posts a project on RocketHub, chooses a fundraising goal and a time limit to raise funds. 2. In exchange for contributions, the Creative offers rewards (i.e. a copy of the finished CD, tickets to the event, original artwork, cool products, etc.). 3. The Creative publicizes the project to their network of family, friends and fans, turning them into Fuelers. Fuelers are encouraged to contribute financially and spread the word about the project to their entire network. 4. When a Creative successfully raises the goal amount within the selected time limit, the accumulated funds are transferred to the Creative (minus RocketHub's fee) and the project takes off. 5. If a Creative is unable to raise the goal amount within the selected time limit, the project is scrubbed and contributed funds are credited back to Fuelers. The Creative can then adjust the project's goal and repost.
Digital Rodeo
www.digitalrodeo.com
An online community filled with fresh and exciting content for country music artists and fans alike. Fans can keep their own personal profile, message and comment friends.
WhoTune
www.whotune.com
The world's premier FREE online music community promoting Unsigned artists, music education, music products & music news - everything those involved in music making need.
International Bluegrass Music Association
www.ibma.org
Working together for high standards of professionalism, a greater appreciation for our music, and the success of the worldwide bluegrass community.
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!
5.10 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!
SECTION SIX: THIS MONTH'S ARTICLE
YOUR THREE COMMUNITIES
by Ariel Hyatt, Ariel Publicity
© 2010 All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission
Every artist has three separate communities.
Community #1: Your Super Fans
These are fans who are primarily Your Live Audience. You know them by name. If you play out live, they attend your shows regularly, and buy many things you offer (not just music). If you have a street team they are on it and they evangelize strongly on your behalf.
Community #2: Engaged Fans
These fans are your Active Online Audience. They are newsletter subscribers, blog readers, video watchers, RSS subscribers, active Social Media engagers who frequently comment & engage with you on Facebook, Twitter, etc.
Community #3: Ambient Fans
These fans are your Passive Online Audience and they are your social media friends who are aware of you via Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Last.fm, etc. but don't actively communicate with you and may not have ever even heard your music (yet).
There are many different communities to tack on to this list but these are the primary three. The problem is most artists have only one strategy for marketing and promoting to three totally separate groups.
The way you maintain your relationship with each of these communities requires a different strategy because you have varying degrees of engagement with each of them.
The way you create and develop your relationship with them should also take some careful consideration. Yes, there will be overlap between them but not as much as you may think.
COMMUNITY 1: YOUR SUPER FANS / YOUR LIVE AUDIENCE
Your live audience if you play out and your "real" friends who support you can also be included in this group. They will most likely be the first engaged community you have and the first one you started building for obvious reasons.
Before social media was around this was the only community that indie artists really had. So much has changed in the last 7 years. Back then, you fostered relationships with Community 1 by playing live often and you captivated them in person.
You didn't need to grab them within the first 60 seconds because they most likely stuck around for at least 2-3 songs. You didn't have to worry about a "15 second pitch" to describe what you sounded like - you were up on stage for them to see. And you didn't have to worry about the load time on your website, and your social media chops.
You just had to BRING IT playing live… Then you could build your mailing list in person.
If you could rope them in by playing a compelling live show, you were on your way to having a true fan base of engaged fans.
How To Engage Community #1
1. Don't suck. It always comes up when you ask the experts - it's the foundation. Always be honing your craft.
2. Create a riveting live show. When you do this you will be as Seth Godin says "remarkable" and the word will spread.
Factors to consider:
Connection to the audience
Solid songwriting
A fantastic live show
Great music
The audience experience
Word of mouth
Seth Godin refers to this combination of factors as being remarkable:
"Remarkable doesn't mean remarkable to you. It means remarkable to me.
Am I going to make a remark about it? If not, then you're average,
and average is for losers."
If your live audience is not building consistently, one of these elements may be missing and your live show may need work. If people don't spread the word for you, your audience will not build and you should go back to the drawing board to work on your songs, and improve your show, as it all starts there.
Improving Your Show
The most extraordinary live music coach I've ever witnessed is Tom Jackson. Tom works on developing your live stage show using a series of effective techniques to both create a cohesive show and a connection with your live audience.
Tom rightly points out that your songs don't all sound the same, but in most cases when you perform, they all look the same when played live. Toms DVDs, blog and workshops will help you work on your band dynamics and stage presence. I have seen him work miracles with bands. In just a few hours, he completely transforms shows that are hum- drum into riveting stage performances. Tom is unlike any coach out there and what he teaches needs to be seen to be fully understood.
Capturing Community #1's Data:
Once the live audience is at your gig, you ask them for their e-mail addresses for your newsletter or for their mobile numbers for your text messaging list, and you employ consistent techniques to communicate with them. Also add a column to your newsletter sign up sheet asking fans:
"Is it ok if we find you on Facebook Y/N?"
And lastly add a Twitter column so they can write their usernames.
If you have not made a concerted effort to connect the dots between your live audience and your email list you are sacrificing a direct line to money.
So, sign up for a newsletter management system to help get you on the way. We recommend MyNewsletterBuilder, Reverb Nation, Bandletter, Fanbridge or Nimbit to get started.
COMMUNITY 2: ENGAGED FANS
These fans are your Active Online Audience. They are newsletter subscribers, blog readers, video watchers, RSS subscribers, active Social Media engagers who frequently comment & engage with you on Facebook, Twitter, and other sites you may be using. They're engaged with you in what the New York Times brilliantly referred to as "ambient awareness." They know who you are but they may not know you very well (yet). With this community, as with all three, engagement is critical, but here it will be different. In Community 2 contribution is critical but engagement is even more vital.
This article is written for businesses and I have said this many times before: Your music is your business so it won't take much reading between the lines to decipher a plan for yourself in this domain.
"Creating social profiles and broadcasting tweets and status updates is elementary, whereas creating a meaningful presence through the development and dissemination of remarkable content is judicious."
- Brian Solis
"Time and attention are precious commodities and therefore require thoughtful commentary, involvement, contribution, and programming to spark actions and reactions and concurrently earn two-way alliances that ultimately form the relationships businesses need to cultivate communities and also inspire advocacy." - Brian Solis
So now that you see creating content on a regular basis is key, here are my tips for engaging Community 2
5 TIPS FOR ENGAGING & INSPIRING COMMUNITY #2
1. Create A Monthly Newsletter - With ONE Call to Action
a. "Join my Facebook Fanpage"
b. "Follow Me On Twitter". "Subscribe to my
RSS / blog feed"
If you don't have one you a ripping yourself off! Start sending one now (even if its only to 25 people to start). Only have one call to action per monthly communication - too many will confuse people.
2. Add A Social Media Column to Your Newsletter Signup List
When at gigs or creating an online signup form: Don't just ask for their email! Ask for their Twitter, Facebook and MySpace pages as well.
How? Simply add a column that asks: Is it OK if I find you on Facebook/ Twitter etc if so please enter your @TwitterName.
3. Use Derek Sivers' Ultimate Fan Engagement
Keep in mind: People are more interested in themselves than they are in you. Make them the main attraction. These fans will also be delighted that they have been included.
Take photos or videos at every single show from the stage or at the merch table of people that come up to talk to you and/ or purchase merch and create photo albums for each show on Flickr and link these to your blog and to Facebook. As you add everyone to the mailing list, you point them to each photoset featuring: Them! They are very likely to go check themselves out
4. Create a Checklist For Systematizing Your
Outreach & Follow Up
a. Create event on Facebook - invite APPROPRIATE friends based on location
b. Update Reverb Nation / Artistdata/ Ping widget: It will add show to Facebook , MySpace, blog, and web site; blog about show; et cetera.
c. Blog about the upcoming event - Post to all sites.
d. Tweet the event using a bit.ly link
e. Remember to share engaging updates about what you are doing, and that's jut as important as contributing because it shows a more human side of you. And never, ever over-hype
f. Sell tickets on Facebook using Nimbit.com
With all of the Social Media platforms that you need to keep up with it can be easy to miss vital opportunities where people can run into you.
So, create checklist for every time you confirmed a show, go through it and systematically check off each action you need to take, you would never miss a beat in your online live music promotion.
Ideas For Your checklist:
5. Parse Your Facebook Friends into
Geographical Lists
Another great tactic is parsing out your newsletter list and MOST IMPORTANTLY your Facebook list so that it is split up by geographical location so that when you play each market, you can personalize the message and you won't be spamming people who live in Deluth for a show in L.A.
Go through all your friends (yes it's a pain in the arse but spamming people makes YOU the pain in the arse) and create a separate list for each location New York, L.A, Cleveland etc etc. I also maintain a list of "Unknown City" for the people who don't identify where they live. Send them each an individual note asing and add them to the right list.
Now when you have a show you will be laser focused in your Facebook promotion.
COMMUNITY 3: AMBIENT FANS
These fans are your Passive Online Audience and they are your social media friends who are aware of you via Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Last.fm etc but don't actively communicate with you and may not have even heard your music (yet).
18 months ago Clive Thompson wrote a fabulous article for The New York Times Magazine entitled: Brave New World of Digital Intimacy
I think it's a must read and in it Thompson talks about a term that social scientists coined: Ambient awareness. This is for YOU (yeah, I'm talking to you - because you think that the mundane things people "tweet" or status updates on Facebook are meaningless and even painful - Who cares if I'm eating a tuna sandwich? According to Thompson (and I concur) people do care…. Here's why and this is my favorite part of the article: "Each little update - each individual bit of social information - is insignificant on its own, even supremely mundane. But taken together, over time, the little snippets coalesce into a surprisingly sophisticated portrait of your friends' and family members' lives…This was never before possible, because in the real world, no friend would bother to call you up and detail the sandwiches she was eating."
The key to converting Community 3 to Community 2 is sharing relevant information mixed in with the simple and seemly mundane.
I was giving a guest lecture at NYU a few weeks ago and my dear friend and colleague Judy Tint said: "I hate all these people who just update stupid things like "COFFEE" - I mean who cares?" I started smirking because I have created the coffee tweet on many occasions…
" I tweet about my coffee all of the time," I pointed out to Judy. She paused, "Yes but you also tweet interesting articles and blog posts about the music business, updates on cool places to eat, shop, and visit as well as I get to pretend I'm with you when you travel the world."
Ahhh… Granted, Judy is already in my Community 1. Therefore I am relevant to her…. My coffee tweets don't bother her in the least but I bet if I never shared other things she found relevant she would not pay attention to me at all.
So, you may be asking: What constitutes relevant? If it is relevant to you, it's probably relevant to your 3 communities.
How To Engage Community 3
Step 1: Pay attention!
On Twitter You first must follow people who follow you back. It's the polite thing to do because it says I am equally as interested in you as you are in me!
Artist Question/ Objection: Do I HAVE to follow these people? I Don't care about them.
My answer: YES.
If you don't care about potential fans and getting into a relationship with you them they should not care about you.
Artist Question/ Objection: But I can't manage looking at Thousands of updates I will miss the ones I care about…
My answer: I understand. But in this world of two way communication that is now here to stay forever this is the new paradigm. And luckily there are some fabulous applications for managing and screening out the good stuff from the river of overwhelm.
Tips for managing the noise / capturing the Gold
For Facebook & Twitter: Create lists!
On both of these platforms you can create lists so you can look at exactly who you want to look at at any given time. Lists act as a filter. You can create lists of the people you most care about, or group by cities, genre of music, or social circles.
When I am in Los Angeles I click on my LA lists and follow them and relevant information pops up consistently.
I also curate lists on Twitter based on the music festivals and conferences I visit. I also group by countries and categorize by interests.
I have a lists called: Musicians I know, friends and family and ones for the board members of the organizations I serve Sweet Relief and Soundctrl so I can keep up to date with my colleagues in those circles.
Filter with Tweetdeck
With Tweetdeck you filter your streams by keywords and keep up to date with crucial conversations and things that interest you. And when you see something that interests you ENGAGE - comment on it, snap a photo and share it personally with just one potential fan, "favorite" something or retweet a funny or relevant tweet.
There, you have filtered out the noise and you are bringing Community 3 closer to being in your Communities 2, and 1.
Final takeaway
Engagement with all 3 communities is crucial and each will take a different strategy but keep in mind: Studies show, (if you're talking from a sales perspective), that it's 10 times easier to keep a customer than it is to make a brand new one. So, consider all 3 communities as separate pools of customers. You must dive in and play in each pool order to get a game of Marco polo happening.
As you go reward each community by bringing them to center stage. Give them MP3s and videos. Engage them in IM chats. Hold contests for them and acknowledge them openly in front of your followers and fans. I promise they will reward you deeply for your effort.
|
Ariel Hyatt founded
Ariel Publicity & Cyber PR 12 years ago and her firm has worked with over 1,000 musicians and bands of all genres. The Ariel Publicity mission states that all artists deserve to be heard and there is a place for artists of every level to receive exposure. Ariel Hyatt has managed to place tens of thousands of artists in countless outlets from national magazines and TV to the most grassroots online fanzines. Her company is now 100% digital and helps artists increase their online exposure. She is also the co-founder of
Bandletter.com a company that creates newsletters for musicians.
|
|
ADVERTISE IN THE INDIE CONTACT NEWSLETTER AND REACH
OUT TO 170,000 MUSICIANS AND SONGWRITERS EACH MONTH!
|
|
RATES
Regular Placement Ads are $250 each.
If you advertise for 3 consecutive
issues, you will receive a $100 discount ($650 total).
Premium placements (the first 2 ad spots) cost $300 per month
(with no discount for multiple placements).
Contact:
newsletter@indiebible.com
or 1- (613) 596-4996 (Eastern Time Zone UTC/GMT -5 hours) |
|
|
