12/7 Entertainment

Growing My Company

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:49:00 +0000

I hope to eventually grow my production company into a label. To gain insight about this, I interviewed the owner of MVP Artist Management- Eric Stancil.

What is the main focus of your company?

MVP focuses on Christian artist development. We basically take artists that have great talent but need a little help and make them ready to be signed by a record label. Our focus is artist development making sure they have the look; making sure they sound their best; and making sure they are making the right decisions. We also teach them about the music industry because a lot of artists especially Christian artists don't know what they should about the music business.

What is the market need that your company fills?

My artists have a unique sound I look for artists that don't sound mainstream in terms of vocals and music; the music industry needs artists with a fresh sound. We also scout for artists that aren't in the major music cities (NY, LA, ATL, etc). MVP specializes in bringing those artists who may not ever be discovered (because of where they live) to the forefront where they can be heard.

Do you have any local competitors?

I really don't know if I have any competitors we are all just trying to get the message of Christ out to the world and I don't think there is competition in that, there is room for all of us. I'm sure there are many other Christian management companies out there that I am not aware of.

How does your company earn revenue?

My company takes 15% of the artists net income (record sales, tour income, etc.) which is after all the other expenses are paid (band, hotel expenses, recoupable expenses). Whatever the artist keeps in their pocket I get 15% of that.

What stands out about MVP Artist Management?

At MVP we are really into artist development which I think has been overlooked in the industry. We understand that not all artists will come "ready to go" but we have a eye to recognize hidden talent that just needs to be groomed. We are extremely honest with our artists we don't have "hidden" agendas. We want to partner with the artist not rip them off. A successful artist means a successful company, we are in it with them!

MVP Artist Management Website

Manager Measurement

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:19:00 +0000

   When I'm not teaching art to 7th and 8th graders, I stay busy with music. I am a co-founder of a building production company and a manager of a group of artists. I understand that I am an essential part of the success of my artists. When they succeed, I succeed, and if they fail, I fail. I'm always open to assistance and always looking for ways to ensure the success of my artists. I recently checked out an article dealing with artist management, and it touched on some key points.

   The article listed eight reasons why a artist or band needs a manager. In this blog I wanted to share a few of those eight reasons and how they currently relate to my experience as a manager. The first reason discussed was career guidance. The article talks about seeing the big picture. Being able to see things in a broader view for planning and putting things in perspective. It's good to have a vision for your artists and for them to know that you making it a priority to see that vision reached.

   Another factor the article highlights is being a cheerleader for your artist. The article says to be as enthusiastic as a fan when promoting and representing your artist. Enthusiasm is not a problem for me. I used to be where my artists are. I used to write songs for myself. However, now that I'm a manager, I get the chance to live vicariously through their work and I get excited every time they succeed.

   The third reason i'll discuss is time management. There are so many things involved with being an artist that many arms are needed. It's the manager's job to grow those extra arms and take care of all those additional needs. Being that I'm a new manager, I have to wear many hats. I'm a songwriter, engineer, artist developer, contact person, promoter, scout, vocal coach, counselor, taxi, and more. It' a lot of work, but I know it will eventually pay off.

Source: http://www.artistmanagementresource.com/helpful-articles/29-8-reasons-why-a-band-or-artist-needs-a-manager.html

THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:20:00 +0000

Choc City Productions has just released their first compilation mixtape!

"The Pursuit of Perfection"

Support new artists and Support the DMV MUSIC MOVEMENT!!!

CLICK HERE FOR DOWNLOAD PAGE

How are we looking?- Blog Survey

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 19:23:00 +0000

The Digital Age is Now

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 23:49:00 +0000

Let’s pretend it's 1995 and you hear on the radio that your favorite artist is releasing a new album. You're so excited. Filled with anticipation you wonder what to expect on this new album. You wonder when the first single will be released. You wish you could have those questions answered in a flash, but instead you basically have to sit and wait until it hits the stores.

As an artist in 1995 you eagerly want to appeal to your fans. Of course you can have a concert, do a tour, have a release party, or even do radio/TV/magazine interviews and contests. But how long does that take? How complex of a job is it to set up a tour? How long will fans have to wait to see or read that interview? Wouldn't it be great to market to millions of fans in the shortest time?

Welcome to the future! It's 2011 and it seems everything is going digital. The internet, social network sites, YouTube, blog sites, and mobile media, are all ways artists and fans are closing the "reach gap." Artists have pages on the very same sites their fans use. Twitter allows you to actually become a welcomed stalker and "follow" celebrities. You have the opportunity to feel apart of that artist's world as you read their tweets of what their day entails. Artists can take pictures and post them to the site, and you the fan can view them as if you're there. You can even tweet a message to them, and they can even respond. YouTube has allowed us to become everyday stars and directors. Being able to upload your own videos and share them has jumpstarted the career of many artists. A link to a video can spread like wildfire and in no time. Some artists like Soulja Boy, and Rebecca Black have become sensations almost over a few days. The downfall I think YouTube has is that there really isn't a filter. That means that some artists who actually are lacking in ability may still become widely more popular than their counterparts, just because of a gimmick. However, if an unknown artist can rack up millions of viewers in a few days with limited ability and a gimmick, then there must be something there worth investing in. The marketing aspect works as well. If an artist is pushed and promoted the right way, success is more likely to happen. Blog sites allow the regular fan to become an author. They become the kind of author whose words can be viewed by anyone who can get online.

The most current trend is mobile media. Now people can access many of the sites they visit at their computer, from their phones. This not only makes word travel faster but also makes things more convenient as well.

Sources:

http://www.famehouse.net/2011/03/11/as-it-stands-digital-marketing-in-the-music-industry/

http://www.digitalfire.co.za/blog/digital-marketing-and-the-music-industry/

Business Plan Development

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:08:00 +0000

After reading some of the aspects at what Mark Cuban looks for in a business plan, I feel better prepared for the future. One of the aspects was to make sure there is an actual need for my product or service. There really wouldn’t be a point to invest in me if my product or service isn’t wanted. Another aspect is to make sure there’s a market for the product. It’ll be a waste of time to make a product or service with no market or audience.

Mark Cuban will also analyze the potential growth of the business. Any investor wants to back a product or service that they believe will see consistent growth. Consistent growth will bring consistent success.

I feel this part is the most important aspect that an investor will see. I believe that most businesses may struggle at first, but if an investor can see the potential for substantial growth in the future then that may be enough for them to support it.

I intend to incorporate all these aspects by staying current with my industry. Checking online, magazines, and news daily will keep me abreast of anything trending or changing in my industry. Researching similar products and services will also help. I can study what things were successful and which were unsuccessful. That will strengthen my game-plan.

Star Searching- The Process

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:42:00 +0000

I'm the co-founder of a local production/management team and I'm looking to add two roster spots. I'm looking for either a female or male pop artist and a female hip hop artist. I'm currently in the middle of the search process, so I decided to blog about the experience so far.

I used Craig's List to spread the word. After a few days, I had received numerous responses to the add. One of the first things I noticed was that some people either failed to thoroughly read my ad, or simply did not care what my ad asked. The ad had specified my interest in adding a female hip hop artist, yet my first response to the ad was from a male.

The ad also requested that those who were interested be professional as well. The aforementioned male came up short in that department as well. His response was simply "Please Contact (301-555-____)." Along with that was an attachment of his music. There was no introduction. There wasn't any opening statement telling me who he was or what he does, just that one line and the attachment. NEXT!

I also received a response, again from a male, who this time had a small introduction. However, what turned me off in this one was that instead of attaching his music, the prospect told me to "Google him."
Google you? Google you? Who are you? I can't have an artist who thinks he's a diva prematurely. NEXT!

Now don't get me wrong, I have received some decent responses, and I've already started communication and even auditioning some of them. Everyone wasn't a total bust. I've actually come across a male singer who I have decided to work with. One good response however, cannot rid my mind of the many other strange replies. Whether it's a female singer who after three or four emails back and forth finally realized that I was based in the DC area while she lived in Florida. Or perhaps the sweet intrigued young lady; who said she was by herself when it came to music and saw my ad as an opportunity to join a team of people for a common goal, informed me after eighteen messages that her manager just worked out a deal with a label. Wait. You work alone, but have a manger? Right.

All in all, I enjoy the process of looking for new talent. It just never fails that somewhere along the line some foolishness will appear. Stay tuned, I have another audition tomorrow evening. :)

http://www.artistshousemusic.org/videos/how+to+promote+your+career+as+an+independent+artist

Celebrity Press Kits: Toccara Jones

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 22:48:00 +0000

In the future I see myself putting together a few press kits. I want to make sure that each one is effective enough to represent and sell that particular artist. I decided to look at some professional examples of press kits and share my thoughts of one.

Toccara Jones in an African-American fashion model who got her big break as a contestant on season three of America's Next Top Model. She's made numerous appearances in print as well as on sitcoms, game shows, award shows, and other programs.

The press kit starts off with the cover page that features a unique photo of Jones. It's eye-catching which is exactly what you want in a cover page. You want to get the viewer interested before they even read the first word. After the cover, you can find her bio and on the following page begins a series of her clippings. The first is a stunning cover Jones did for King magazine. It continues with other magazine features and photos. These clippings are important in a press kit because they serve as a visual resume' of your artist's work and/or accomplishments.

There are some elements of Toccara Jones's press kit that I didn't notice. For example, I did not notice any contact information. I imagine if a client wanted to use Miss Jones, they would need a way to contact her or her representative. Perhaps this information is absent because Toccara Jones is already a well-known model, or because it was removed purposely on the site to protect Jones. I do know however, contact information will be included on any press kit I create.

Contact information or not, Toccara Jones's press kit is visually impressive which I imagine is ideal for a model. Every turn of the page (well in this case- click of the mouse) introduces the viewer to another image of the beautiful star. One of the jobs of a press kit is to represent the artist/model and Tocarra Jones's press kit visually excels greatly.

You can view Tocarra Jones's press kit here.

http://www.artistpromo.com/

Entertainment Law

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 03:49:00 +0000

I recently checked out three podcasts by Gordon P. Firemark about different entertainment law cases. The podcasts are broken down into episodes and each episode Firemark, along with another attorney, would share different cases or legal incidents.

In one of the episodes I listened to, one of the cases was Henley vs. DeVore. This case dealt with the misusage of a song. DeVore had created what he thought were parodies of Henley's songs, however it was ruled otherwise. The songs used were "Boys of Summer" and "All She Wants To Do Is Dance". DeVore who was a candidate for the Senate, created an unauthorized version of "All She Wants To Do Is Dance" called "All She Wants To Do Is Tax". This song was aimed at his opponent Barbara Boxer.
DeVore side thought they were in their rights by calling his version a parody. The only problem is a parody is considered a version that makes fun of the original work or the author. In this case, DeVore's version did neither.

In another episode, Firemark discussed cases involving Jay-Z and one of his hit songs. The Jay-Z case dealt with a copyright issue. The claim was that Jay-Z's song "Big Pimpin" violated the copyright of an Egyptian song called "Khosara Khosara". Although the songs may sound similar, it was ruled that a claim couldn't be filed because the plaintiff did not have the exclusive rights to file that kind of a suit.

In the last episode I listened to, the topic of Lady Gaga's grammy performance came up. Basically the issue is that Lady Gaga performed her new song "Born This Way" and it was said to sound very similar to Madonna's "Express Yourself." The media wondered if Lady Gaga had permission so do a song so closely similar to Madonna's. It was even said that Lady Gaga stated she had Madonna's blessing on Jay Leno's talk show. Madonna's people said they didn't know anything about that. many people believe a settlement will come just to keep the situation low key.

These are all cases I hope my company never has to worry about. Even if I am the winner in these cases, I think if I can avoid the drama of violating someone's rule, then I'll be fine.

http://firemark.com/
http://articles.cnn.com/2009-04-18/entertainment/henley.lawsuit_1_don-henley-lawsuit-claims?_s=PM:SHOWBIZ

One on One with Ms. Gee

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 04:01:00 +0000

For this installment of my One on One series, I will be interviewing local DMV manager

Ms. Gee.

Ms.Gee was born and raised in the DC/MD area, and has been working in music and entertainment for a number of years. She is the manager of Cadence (a female rap/hip hop artist). She loves to hold charity events for the children, and she's also involved with lowering the AIDS/HIV rates. She says she's trying to help bring ALL states together as one in music.

Sean Allen: What made you want to be a manager?

Ms. Gee: To be honest, I had an artist contact me that had heard of me from a few folks in the DMV. She said my name kept coming up. So at first I told her I wasn't a manager, that I owned a magazine and do promotions. Well, she wasn't having it. She was very persistant and I weighed out the options of how could I benefit this woman's career. Well long story short, I took on the job and wound up managing two artists within a year.

SA: What do you feel are qualities an effective manager should have?

MG: I think you have to be a leader first. Second, you have to know your artist. Third, you should have the confidence and be willing do what needs to be done. You cannot be shy in this game.

SA: Looking back on when you first had interest in being manager, would you say this is how/what you though it was?

MG: Yes it was exactly what I thought it would be, but that's from seeing it from another side doing the magazine.

SA: What kind of a manager are you? (Are you involved with the actual creative/songwriting duties? Are you more of a promoter? Do you just handle money? etc)

MG: I'm actually all of the above, I handle the money, contracts (all legal) promotion, bookings, website/marketing, stylist duties, everything.

SA: Share a managing experience where things took a wrong turn.

MG: Wow, I had an artist that basically had to respond to a "beef" and did a response w/o speaking to management first. Basically it was a negative reaction and that's when "damage control" comes in. Artists need to trust their managers and confide in them before they do anything. A managers job is to look at the best interest of the artist.

SA: Share a managing experience where it seemed everything was going right.

MG: Sitting in a Def Jam office signing papers with my artist.

SA: Wow, so if you could manage any mega artist out right now, who would it be and why?

MG: I love Trina and everything she stands for, I think we could work miracles on the charts.

SA: Any upcoming projects, shows or events you're involved in?

MG: I personally am nominated in two categories at the DMVAwards this year for Music Is Life Magazine, (link here) check us out! Cadence is currently working on her album in Atlanta, GA.

SA: Thank you Ms. Gee

MG: Thank you.

Now Serving- Red Kool-aid by A. Carter

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 22:10:00 +0000

The wait is finally over.

The eagerly anticipated debut mixtape of DMV artist A. Carter is here.

Now that it's here, what is Red Kool-aid anyway? The answer... Red Kool-aid is hip hop. Red Kool-aid is r&b. Red Kool-aid is lyrics. Red Kool-aid is beats. Red Kool-aid is love. Red Kool-aid is sex. Red Kool-aid is motivation. Red Kool-aid is inspiration. Red Kool-aid is humor. Red Kool-aid is confidence. Red Kool-aid is all that sprinkled with a dash of bad words and a pinch of ignorance LOL. Overall, Red Kool-aid is good music!

Before you download, let me just thank a few people who whether it was a little or a lot, played a part in the creation of Red Kool-aid. To my Choc City Fam- Justyn Time, Lex Phifer, Neena S., and Reason...this is just the lighting of the torch, we bout to past that thang around til we all shine and the whole area sees the flame. To the Choc City affiliates NIC, Shareta, Juice, thank you for your talents, the love is real. Thank you to all the other mixtape features J-MAC, Sweet Semone, Felisha, Channing B, Maria J, and Kalon Reza- I appreciate the love and support. Special thanks to Gissel, Ahneesa, Phorsha, and Monique. Even though your parts were minor, they were intricate pieces that helped add that special something. Another thanks to my brother Justyn Time for mastering the project. SCISSORS!!! and thank YOU the soon to be listener. If I just did this for my ears only you wouldn't be reading this.

DOWNLOAD MIXTAPE HERE >>>> Red Koolaid Download Click the large white "download" link

Follow A. Carter on Twitter @ACarter127

One on One with Shawnte' Stevenson

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 04:46:00 +0000

For this next installment of "One on One", I interviewed HR Specialist Shawnte' Stevenson.

Sean Allen: What is your current title/position?
Shawnte' Stevenson: HR Specialist (Employee Relations) for the Social Security Administration
SA: What duties does that job involve?
SS: I provide consultation services (advise and guidance) to SSA Management Officials in order to correct misconduct and performance issues.
SA: So have you had to do any negotiations on your job?
SS: Yes I sometimes have to negotiate settlement agreements with the union after a proposed adverse
action is issued, a union official may ask management if the employee can have a lesser penalty. If management decides that the employee can face a lesser penalty, I (as a representative of management)
negotiate with the union (the employee's rep) the contents of what should go into the settlement.
SA: Have you ever been involved in a negotiation that didn't go the way you wanted?
SS: Yes. When I could not get a settlement agreement that didn't meet the needs/interests of management, we moved forward with the adverse action
SA: Does BATNA play a role in any of your negotiations?

SS: No, because there are certain things that management won't budge on.  So, if we (management) do not get what we want, then we go through with the suspension/removal.

SA: Any negotiation meetings stand out to in your memory?

SS: Yes, there was one for behavior that an employee engaged in that was just egregious.  The union proposed that the employee face no type of discipline at all because the employee may have been dealing with some personal problems.  The union felt that they should not face any discipline for their behavior.

SA: Thank you so much for your time Ms. Stevenson.

SS: You're very welcome.

From Hip-Hop to Heaven

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 01:10:00 +0000

The Washington Post article "D.J. Cory 'CoCoBrother" Condrey brings gospel to hip hop generation" really had my mind going. The article is basically about a young man's journey to be a radio d.j. and his decision to gravitate from secular music to gospel.

In the article, Condrey talks about starting out with radio in Atlanta, then becoming a radio personality in Washington, DC, to moving back to Atlanta to do a hip-hop show. It was there where he said he had a revelation and decided to switch from doing secular music to gospel. His gospel show became a hit and is now syndicated in many cities nationwide.

I can relate to this article because it somewhat mirrors a thought that continues to pop in my head. I've basically been involved in church all my life and I consider myself a spiritual person. I however enjoy making music, especially hip-hop. Even though I don't consider my music to be totally out of hand, it isn't the kind I'd play for my elder family members or church members. I sometimes wonder if I should be making that kind of secular music. I am an adult and can make my own decisions, but I just sometimes wonder what God thinks about all this.

I sometimes take a deeper approach. I wonder am I not as successful as I could be because I'm doing secular music. Should I be doing gospel hip-hop and not secular hip-hop? When I look at the industry, I don't see any gospel rappers making huge commercial success. Maybe that's what's making me wary of transitioning my music. I then sometimes think that I could be that one who turns gospel rap into a commercial phenomenon.

Right now I continue to make secular music. I have done and will continue to do gospel music here and there, but not exclusively. That doesn't mean that this decision won't ever change. Condrey was at his third radio job before he received his revelation, so maybe mine is coming soon.

You can read the Washington Post article about D.J. Cory CoCoBrother Condrey by Hamil R. Harris
by clicking here.

-Sean Allen December 12, 2010

One on One with Q.T.K. the Paragon

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 03:31:00 +0000

For this installment of the "One on One" series, I interviewed local Maryland femcee Q.T.K. the Paragon

Sean Allen: What do you love about music?

Q.T.K. the Paragon: What I love about music is being able to connect, relate, and get a message out. Music is a major art form. Music is life... to me.

SA: What inspired you to rap?

QTK: What inspired me to rap was poetry that I had written. I reconized the love for the passion in writting such meaningful material. I put my feelings behind my words. I heard the same passion in hip hop and I wanted to learn more. I was intrigued. Mase Puff Tupac BIG Scarface Geto Boys No Limit. I wanted to memorize and spit it with them. The first time I rapped, it was a song with Mase and Puff. Hey they were hot back then! I can't remember what the song was, but I would write the words down and rap with them when I was 11 years old living in Ikego Japan. After that, it was my new thng to do. I memorized a lot and taught myself versatility. I started writing my own when was about 12 living in San Diego, CA.

SA: Who influenced you musically?

QTK: I was influencd by a variety of music. I love all music. You see, to me its all about music that you can relate to and feel the passion that person felt singing or rapping it. I love everythng from classical opera to country, folk, jazz, pop, techno, to even heavy metal. I've heard it all. I respect music. I am my music

SA: How did you come up with your alias?

QTK: Q.T.K. the PARAGON huh? Ok, the first part goes way back! QTK used to be QUEEN TO/THRU KHAOS with a K to be different. That was around age 14. I came up with KHAOS first. I then went to a local known rapper named Free and told him I was Lady Khaos I believe and he came up with Q.T. like cutie. I liked it said that's it! I have to give Free credit.

In 2009, I got into some trouble and got locked up and thought then maybe khaos was a curse or something. Aside from that I figured I needed a new meaning in life. then thought of QUESTION, THOUGHTS, and KNOWLEDGE: QTK. As far as the paragon, the definition explains itself. I'm a paragon on the beats. I'm zealous in the rap game. For your ears, I will provide.

SA: How would you describe your style?

QTK: My style is how I feel at a certain time. I like to be me. I don't like to curse in a lot of my material. I like to challenge myself to not curse. If I do curse, it'll be on a strong meaningful track. The style I am is hip hop. I like to get a message across like Lauryn Hill, Tupac, and Scarface. I also like to get deep with my versatility like Wu-Tang.

SA: Are you currently working on any projects?

QTK: I am currently working on a mixtape and a demo. I am always down to collaborate with other artists, so I always have people come to me with music. I do it for free because I just want to get heard right now. Producers are always sending me beats to make hot. I have done a few shows and open mics and I plan to do more. I've given many rappers their aliases. I love to make beats hotter and meaningful. I am also learning to record, mix and master. I am also into making beats. I am always ready to make a new song that is somewhat original. I have one mixtape under my belt but it is with other people as well. I am currently number 1 on the Reverbnation charts for local hip hop (link below). I have held that spot for 7-8 months now. It's awesome!

SA: When it's all said an done what do you hope people say about you?

QTK: I want people to say "My God, she's done it lol." Seriously though, I want to open doors, build bridges, take chances and have enough courage to dare to be different. I want to let others know it is possible, and dreams do come true. I want to give back to hip hop and teach with positive messages. Even though some of my songs may not be totally positive but they will still always have some kind of a message. I hope people say she came along way and always had that hunger and passion for her music. I hope people remember that I was never too afraid to admit my flaws. I want them to realize I always saw things in a different light. I also hope to build music centers for youth. Music is therapeutic, and a way of escape, a way to express, and a way to make a way. I hope to make that way.

Check out these two QTK links below.

Baby Don't Cry- video

Reverbnation QTK

The Greeting Card Association

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:15:00 +0000

I've decided that one of the ventures of 12/7 Entertainment will be the creation of Skyeward Productions. Skyeward Productions will be the art division of 12/7 Entertainment, starting with a focus in greeting cards.

The Greeting Card Association (GCA) is the U.S. trade association of the greeting card industry. GCA represents greeting card and stationery, as well as suppliers to the industry. 1

The Greeting Card Association offers artists and writers tips under the resource tab on their site. These are two extremely beneficial pages for inspiring greeting card artists and writers. The main reason I appreciate this information is because I am an artist and a writer myself. As I plan to start my company, I do envision hiring a team of artists, however I plan to do the majority of the art and writing in the beginning stages at least.

Being an artist, I feel that the artwork is the first line of communication to the consumer. Before a customer reads the writing inside the card, it's the artwork that should draw the customer in. If you're a inspiring greeting card artist, the site offers many tips. The site explains that an artist should spend time looking at cards and observing how the artwork and the text inside relate to each other. It states that looking at styles is also important. If you have an idea of what styles are selling well, you'll have a better understanding of where to go with your artwork. The page also gives information what to have in your portfolio for publishers, payment examples an artist could receive, along with a few other details any artist would need in order to begin a successful career in greeting card art.

Not only do I plan to do illustrations for my company, I also plan to write some of the cards' messages as well. If you're an inspiring greeting card writer, the page is beneficial to you also. According to the page, the artwork catches the eye, but the words make the sale. Some of the same tips apply here such as spend time looking at other cards and reading how the text relates with the art. Another tip is to be confident with the writing, but make sure your submission fits the publisher you're interested in writing for. The page gives examples of payment as well.

The Greeting Card Association provides plenty of other information. However my gradual transition from an artist to somewhat of a businessman, still hasn't allowed me to shake off my creative edge. Therefore I found these two pages of the site most interesting and beneficial.

1 The Greeting Card Association (link below)

The Greeting Card Association

Legos Leggo!

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:34:00 +0000

The Dark Ages are the time between when you put away the Lego for the last time as a kid and [when] you decide as an adult that it is okay to play with a kids' toy." -Hillel Cooperman

Hillel Cooperman is a Seattle-based entrepreneur and a Lego enthusiast. He founded Jackson Fish Market, which is a web software consultancy and design firm. For almost six minutes, Cooperman gives us a light-hearted, comical recollection of his fascination with Legos. It seems almost as if it's a slight obsession. His children even refer to their lifestyle as being "Lego rich." Cooperman isn't the only Leo enthusiast. He talks about going to conventions with many other Lego fanatics. He displayed slides of different remarkable Lego sculptures. The Titantic, a skyscraper, and a comic book cover were among the ones shown. He even showed a Lego model of his home that he created. Cooperman informed us that Lego lovers could also use certain websites to create Lego masterpieces. He even stated that some people used Legos to make special Lego movies on youtube.

I can relate to the speech because I was one a Lego lover. Now, I wasn't nearly the fanatic Cooperman was, but I had my share of fun building experiences. I remember my mom and I built a Lego house. I was red and yellow with windows, and door, and even a tree in the front yard. A funny memory I have is that my mom would always have the windows open. I however preferred them closed. Almost weekly we would go through this routine of me closing the windows and her opening them back up. The funny thing was that I really wasn't aware that she would open them right back up. I would just happen to walk by days later and notice the windows were open as if someone had just opened them. They had probably been open for several days. : )

When I think about Cooperman's story of his Legos, I think about myself as an artist. They both are similar. With Legos, you're using blocks to create a new world, or a new structure. With paint and an empty canvas, you're using the paint to express your feelings. Both take creativity, and require you to follow a few rules here and there in order to achieve maximum success. Then when the final result is complete, they can leave an audience in awe.

To see Hillel Cooperman and hear his speech click here.

Sources
http://www.ted.com/
http://www.ted.com/speakers/hillel_cooperman.html
http://www.youtube.com

One on One with Candice N. Mackel

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 22:12:00 +0000

This segment of "One on One" will feature Candice N. Mackel, owner of Candice Nicole Public Relations

Sean Allen: Could you tell me a little about Elite DC Magazine and how you got involved working with them?

Candice N. Mackel: Elite DC Magazine is a magazine that is based in the DC/MD/VA area. I went to college with the owner Anwaa Kong. I got involved with the magazine because he needed some PR and I was just starting out so he gave me a chance.

SA: So what project are you currently working on?

CNM: I am currently working on the Elite DC Magazine fall print issue release party. That will be held on Wed, Oct 20th 6-9p at Layla Lounge which is in DC. He reached out to me to do the press releases but I am now working on getting partners for the event. I have reached out to The Dazzle Cartel who will now raffle off a hair service, nail, makeup and a whole model package which will include hair, nails, styling and a photoshoot. I also tapped into my network and will now have Godiva donate some items as well and I am currently working on getting a local cupcakery Red Velvet donate 50 cupcakes. I may reach out to a local barbershop as well to see if they will raffle off 2 haircuts to the guys so we can take care of them too and not just the women.

SA: What are some key details you consider in planning that kind of event?
CNM: To plan an event like this you have to be extremely organized because it can get to be overwhelming if you aren't careful. But if you are detailed oriented, you will be fine. Also, it helps to have deadlines.

SA: How will your event be funded? Is there a budget?

CNM: There isn't a budget for this event so that is why I am asking for donations. Most of the time the people will go for it because you are not asking them for money but for product and it works both ways because they are really just helping to promote their business as well, so it's a great investment. This event will be sponsored by Ciroc, as Anwaa has a great working relationship with them.

SA: What are your expectations of the event, and what are some ways you can ensure success?
CNM: For this event to be successful we have to properly promote it but Elite DC Magazine has a strong name in the DMV area already as Anwaa and his team take a lot of the party photos and he covers the hottest events in the city. I am looking to see a lot of the local talent to show up and some celebs as well. I will be sending out personal invites to Raheem DeVaughn, Tabi Bonney and many others.

Sources
Candice Nicole
Elite DC Mag

One on One with Sean Allen

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:14:00 +0000

For the first installment of the "One on One" segment, I will interview myself.

What is 12/7 Entertainment?
12/7 Entertainment is the name of my future entertainment company out of the Washington, DC area. The name 12/7 comes from my birth date which is December 7th. My company will be strong in music, but will also feature art, and writing. As far as music I'd like to focus on management, artist development, production, and songwriting. The art aspect will feature my artwork, as well as artwork available for purchase.

Will you handle everything yourself?
As of right now, I'm handling most because I'm just starting this. I do plan to involve other people in the future. Right now I will oversee everything and I will delegate the majority of the music department to Justyn Time. Justyn Time and I are the founders of Choc City Productions. Choc City Productions will continue however under the umbrella of 12/7 Entertainment. I also envision adding more people to assist with marketing, promotions, etc.

Why do you feel it's important to add others to assist you?
Well, I'm only one person. I have a vision, but I can't possibly do everything. I feel it's extremely important to involve others. I have strengths but I also have weaknesses, and I'd like to involve people who have strengths in my weak areas. Involving others can also give me different opinions and different options when handling different situations.

What do you see for the future?
I see us being small in the beginning, starting as a tight unit of people working together. However, through hard work, persistence, talent, skill, and leadership we will grow into one of the premier entertainment companies in the Washington DC area.

Just In Time for Justyn Time

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:05:00 +0000

Justyn Time's first single, "Superhero"

"Behind these blue eyes lies cries that hide, inside heart that died, Why confide?..."

When hearing one of the opening lines to a song by Maryland emcee Justyn Time, you can probably get an idea why his debut album will be called The Bipolar Lp. Having been diagnosed as bipolar at a young age, Justyn Time's life has been filled with many experiences and circumstances worth of material to use for an album. The album will be similar to a bipolar disorder. The first half of the album will be full of songs that have an upbeat feel. There will be some songs about love, and others that create a high energy. The other half of the album will feature songs with more of a rebellious, and an "I don't care" vibe. The final song on the album is called Russian Roulette. People with bipolar disorder are nine times more likely to commit suicide so to end the album with the song Russian Roulette symbolizes the album dying. The Tupac, Scarface, and Eminem influenced artist is also a producer and engineer. Justyn Time hopes to release his debut album The Bipolar Lp next year.

The Writer's Block

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 00:55:00 +0000

12/7 Entertainment also features writing. Occasionally this blog will feature a writing sample. Samples can be poetry or prose. This post will feature a poem entitled "Finally" by Lasermellow

Finally

happily urging, now that my courage is emerging, i'm no longer afraid of a purging as I accept God, but I was reluctant because I'm an Earthling and the world kept me swerving on Earthly gravel so I had to dig deep to find the right way of travel. i'm ready to live accordingly since that's the only way to win the battle...i cried so many times in the pews mainly because i knew what it was i had to do. Fear rendered me incapable, closed me in locked sections, whispered me the combination but i still insisted on guessing...fear is an awful weapon!

Lasermellow also explains where his name originated and why he writes.

I came up with by putting two words together. Laser came about to something as easy going and mellow is laid back kind of self explanatory. I been composing poems for enjoyment since 1999. It's just became an outlet of passionate emotions whether it be loving or combative, political or imaginative. I write so others can vividly envision an interpret my thoughts to an exacting detail.

Pray 4 Me (The Great Recession)- Jeff Johnson

noreply@blogger.com (Sean of 12/7) — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 08:25:00 +0000

After talking to underground Atlanta emcee Jeff Johnson about the lead track from his new EP, I realized that "Pray 4 Me" has a deep meaning. He explains that the concept of the track came about when Barack Obama was elected our country's President. Although his election put us on the right track, we still have problems to deal with as a nation. Jeff Johnson states that the point he's trying to convey is that all races and classes of Americans have taken a hit because of former President Bush and the last administration.

"I am not saying he is the direct reason for the many downfalls of this nation because I do believe
he loves this country....but collectively, the people in power seemed to have more interest in their
personal wealth/pleasure than the well being of the common American. Selling Senate seats,
countless affairs, abusing tax dollars, etc. Things like this have always gone down before, but it seems to be more frequent these days."

Jeff Johnson has recently released a new project entitled The 'Drapetomania' EP

If you would like to listen and download, click the link below.

Jeff Johnson feat. Co$$ The 'Drapetomania' EP