Independent Rock Music

Why To Stay Independent And Avoid Commercialism

2012-05-15T23:14:00.000-07:00

Pink Floyd in January 1968 Left to right: Mason, Barrett, Gilmour (seated), Waters and Wright (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

On the face of it, Universal Music Group's bid to buy a big chunk of EMI stands to make the world's leading music company an even more formidable force, combining Universal's star lineup of Lady Gaga and Rihanna with the British company's deep library of The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Katy Perry.

Certainly the fierce opposition from rival Warner Music Group, consumer groups and independent music companies makes it seem that way. They have all vowed to fight it tooth and nail, telling U.S. and European regulators that the merger would create a behemoth capable of controlling the future of digital media by withholding content from digital music startups.

But industry insiders say regulators also are looking at a counterargument - that the major recording companies already are weakened giants worn down by the forces of big retailers and piracy that put downward pressure on the price of CDs and digital downloads.

U.S.-based Universal, owned by Paris-based Vivendi, made the $1.9 billion deal in November.

Eight antitrust experts interviewed about the issue were divided about the chances for approval, largely because the music landscape has changed so much in recent years that it is not clear that a deal that would concentrate 40 percent of the recorded music industry in one company would harm competition.

"Ten years ago, the labels had power. Today they don't have any power. If they (the U.S. Federal Trade Commission) block it, it's just because they don't understand the market," said Daniel Sokol, who teaches antitrust issues at the University of Florida Levin College of Law.

Two antitrust experts who spoke on condition of anonymity to protect business relationships said that Universal faces a tough fight in winning U.S. approval - especially because Warner Music Group, owned by privately held Access Industries, has organized opposition to the deal.

"My sense is that the FTC could take a hard line depending on how good a job Warner does in generating complaints," one expert said. "It wouldn't surprise me if it didn't go through."

Universal is gearing up to begin discussions later this month with the FTC about potential asset sales that could make the transaction more palatable to regulators, said a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Universal also is considering making a request to the FTC in the next two weeks for the agency to decide on approval of the deal within a 30-day period, this source added.

Two industry insiders who have met with U.S. regulators say the FTC is asking about the pricing power of retailers like Apple and Amazon, who use cheap music as loss leaders to attract customers for more expensive goods, and about the pressure of illegal music downloads.

The FTC also is asking about allegations made by consumer groups and others that Universal has been reluctant to license its enormous catalog of must-have music to digital startups, or has licensed the music only on onerous terms, those insiders said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Universal spokesman Peter Lofrumento said the company is working closely with the FTC and is confident of approval. The FTC declined to comment on the matter.

As the U.S. regulatory review heats up, a Senate Judiciary subcommittee said last week it will hold a hearing on the matter. The panel has no official say over approval, but is able to help shape the debate over the deal.

'AN ANTICOMPETITIVE MERGER'

While the FTC may accept the argument that major retailers push prices down, Bert Foer, president of the American Antitrust Institute advocacy group, dismissed piracy as a defense.

"It's a passing issue and it will eventually get dealt with. It should not be the justification for allowing an anticompetitive merger to take place," Foer said.

The consumer groups Public Knowledge and Consumer Federation of America have written to two U.S. House of Representatives and Senate antitrust subcommittees to urge close scrutiny of the deal. The groups said Universal's 40 percent market share could make it a bully when innovative startups come up with new ways to sell and stream music online.

"If you control that much of the marquee content, they can determine the fate of new digital business models by withholding content," Mark Cooper of Consumer Federation of America said.

Universal said those worries are unfounded.

"The future of music also depends on providing consumers with as many legal alternatives to piracy as possible," Universal's Lofrumento said. "We have licensed more digital music services than any other music company and will continue to do so to the benefit of our artists, consumers and the overall industry."

Another critic of the deal is IMPALA, a European organization of independent music companies. It points out that last year 90 percent of the Top 1000 for downloads and airplay were from the big four music companies.

"These results are very revealing, especially as they already factor in independent successes such as Adele. They send a serious warning about the dangers of concentration in music for diversity in Europe," said Helen Smith, IMPALA executive chair.

British singer Adele is on the independent label XL Recordings.

European antitrust regulators in Brussels are asking many of the same questions that the FTC is asking, according to sources there, and are also asking whether artists would be able to switch record labels easily after the deal.

The European regulators, who are more public about their investigations than their U.S. counterparts, are due to decide by September 6 whether to clear the deal.

Officials in Brussels are concerned since the combination of Universal and EMI's recorded music unit would create a player almost twice the size of the nearest European rival.

They also appear to be focusing on the companies' market share in classical music and jazz, compilations and the extent to which Universal dominates hit charts.

In addition to Lady Gaga and Rihanna, Universal's roster of artists includes Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, Taylor Swift and LL Cool J. In addition to Katy Perry, EMI's list includes Norah Jones, Coldplay, Joss Stone and Lady Antebellum.

PLUMMETING REVENUES

Across U.S. music labels, revenues have plummeted 50 percent from 2000 to $7 billion in 2011, according to the Recording Industry Association of America trade group, which blames piracy for much of the losses.

Employment by record companies in the United States has fallen to less than 10,000 now from about 25,000 people in 1999, the association said.

The situation has not been much better in Europe. British company EMI, which was the first home to the Beatles when they were unknowns in 1962, was heavily indebted in 2007 when British private equity firm Terra Firma bought it with financing from Citigroup.

In February 2011, EMI, unable to pay the loans, was acquired by Citigroup. The bank cleared out the debt, broke the company in two and sold the parts last November.

Sony snapped up EMI Music Publishing, the portion of the company that handles copyrights to 1.3 million songs, for $2.2 billion, and received European approval in April.

The FTC has not weighed in on the Sony deal, but it is not expected to run into antitrust trouble in the United States.

Universal won the rights to EMI's recorded music unit after Warner Music dropped out of bidding. Warner, the No. 3 U.S. music company, has now pursued its public campaign against Universal's deal.

Edgar Bronfman Jr., the former chairman of Warner, said at the Dive Into Media Conference in January in reference to the deal: "It's dangerous, problematic and has to be stopped."

Bronfman argued that Universal, with a 40 percent share, would determine not only the future of the recorded music industry but any kind of digital music industry.

Warner Music declined to comment for this story.

Typically that sort of market share would prompt regulators to challenge a deal - and they might despite Universal's cries that they are powerless to raise prices when faced with retail giants and illegal downloads.

Evan Stewart, an antitrust expert with the law firm Zuckerman Spaeder, argued that the FTC could well approve the deal if Universal's lawyers have compelling data to support arguments about Apple and Amazon's pricing power, and the effect of piracy. "If they're skillful at making that presentation, I think it will be approved," Stewart said.

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Playing Guitar In A Band. Keep It Real

2012-05-11T03:41:00.004-07:00

A relatively recent tirade by Kanye West during an MTV awards show, as the "Best Video" trophy was being presented to Taylor Swift, served as a stark reminder that the age of civility and courteousness may very well have gone the route of dinosaurs and cavemen.

Well...maybe not "cavemen", because it seems that many of today's generation of celebrities have adopted the mindset that displays of Neanderthal-like rants and tantrums are the norm.

That is not to imply that stars and celebrities of previous generations were any more virtuous or angelic than the current crop. Sinatra and the boys from the "Rat Pack" were notorious hell raisers, Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Cagney, Hepburn, Bogart, Rock Hudson and more all took part in their fair share of scandal.

The difference being, that earlier generations placed a high importance on keeping the dirt swept under the carpet, and putting on the happiest face possible for the public. The perfect example of this is The Rolling Stones, more particularly Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and Mick Jagger. It was common knowledge in the 70's that they were under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. As if to prove a point, they are still regarded as 'the greatest rock and roll band in the world' as opposed to 'the most drugged-up band in the world.' Why? Because they loved what they did and didn't let any drug-fuelled antics happen on stage.

You might have read about other scandalous celebrity behavior in a tabloid, or caught bits of gossip on the street - but when celebrities walked into the glow of the spotlight, it was all smiles.

Those of us that play guitar, or any instrument, in a band can learn some good lessons from the Kanye West incident.

A group of musicians that come together to form a band are very much like a family. There are apt to be rifts, arguments and disagreements that erupt. Egos can get out of control and tempers flare over seemingly inconsequential issues.

Virtually anyone who has taken the stage in a band situation has experienced this. From the musician that plays at the local VFW, to the famous clashes of bands like The Beatles, it's inevitable that we will all be subject to in-fighting and inappropriate behavior at some point in our musical careers.

The key is to save the bickering for the dressing room, and adopt the habit of putting on a "happy face" whenever walking on stage.

The truth on the matter is, the public really doesn't care if we are in a bad mood. They don't give a hoot if things aren't going our way, or if someone in the band made a comment to us that we didn't like. All they want is to be entertained with great music.

And if we're on stage, it's our number one responsibility to provide them with just that - the best performance possible.

I have witnessed bands that openly argued on stage, musicians cussing each other out during songs, and I've even had to break up fist fights between band members. It's all inexcusable. Playing music in front of an audience is a privilege, not a right, and we all have a responsibility to conduct ourselves accordingly.

So the question looms, in light of the Kanye West debacle, is civility with today's celebrities dead? One look at how the incident was handled by Taylor Swift, and Beyonce will give us the answer, and it's a resounding "NO". They both conducted themselves as the "class acts" that they are and proved that civility is alive and well.

The moral for the rest of us is that, no matter how bad things may seem, no matter how mad we get, or how "wronged" we feel - we owe it to our audience to check our dirty baggage at the door before walking on stage, and put on a happy face before hitting the first note.

And what of the ranting, adolescent sense of entitlement displayed by Kanye West? It only proves that the world will always be inhabited by a handful of world class jerks, with no respect for their fellow human beings.

Forming A Rock Band

2012-04-28T02:52:00.002-07:00

There are few things more thrilling than standing on a stage playing an instrument or singing your heart out, while watching the fans below having a great time.

Yes, starting a rock band can be a lot of fun AND it can be profitable, if you follow a few easy steps while getting started.

1. The first part is getting together a group of like-minded people who want to play music together. Make sure the other people have similar interests, morals and don't smell too bad. You will be spending a lot of time with them, so you should get a long well with each other or you'll be spending more time looking for replacements than you will playing music.

2. Once you have the people in place, you need to agree on a style of music to play. If you have a songwriter in the group, you'll want to play those "originals." These are songs you will own, record and sell. If no-one in the group is a songwriter, you'll be playing "covers". When starting a rock band this is how most begin. Covers are other people's music that you like on the radio or from a certain era, or genre. (80s, 90s, or Classic Rock, etc.) While you can have a lot of fun and make a good living just playing covers, the real money and "rock stardom" come from playing originals.

3. Next, you'll need to think about where you want to play. Wedding bands are mostly cover bands with a very wide variety of music styles. Since the band is not the star of the show (the bride is) they tend to be a little more subdued. If you want to play a lot of loud music with lots of stage antics, you'll be playing at clubs and theaters. Corporate gigs are great, since they can pay a lot of money, but they tend to best suited for established "show" bands, usually with a female singer or two.

4. OK, so you've got the band together, you've learned the songs, now you're ready to go right? Wrong! Starting a rock band also means starting your band promotion. Now is when you get ready to cash in on all the long hours you've spent learning your instrument and rehearsing with the band. This is where the band marketing and promotions come in. Think about the marketing of your band just like you would any other aspect of it. You wouldn't go on stage without your instruments, or a sound system, right? Well don't forget the marketing either.

Marketing Items You'll Need:

Band Name

Banner

Promo Kit (Online)

Web Site Auto Responder

5. Your band name will set the tone for your image. For example, if you are starting a rock band that is going to play heavy metal music, you'll probably want a name more like "The Devil Demons" rather than "The Cute, Fluffy Bunnies." Make sure your band looks and acts like your name name implies and relates to the music you play.

6. Get a banner made up at any local sign shop that you can hang up behind you wherever you play. I can't tell you how many bands I have seen and have no clue who they were because they didn't have a banner. This is no way to start a rock band. It's a way to guarantee you never play anywhere but your garage.

7. Next you'll need an online Promo Kit where you can store your band photos, demo music video of you playing, contact numbers etc.

8. Your web site should have info about the band, some sample photos, music demos, videos, etc. Be sure your phone number is there where someone can easily find it. VERY IMPORTANT - Be sue you have a place where someone can sign-up to be on your mailing list.

9. Which leads us to the Autoresponder. An Autoresponder creates a form on your web site so you can capture email addresses. It then stores them for you so you can automatically send out messages, or send them out whenever you want. This way your fans will know when and where you are playing. You can also send them notices of new music and merchandise you have for sale.

10. Be sure whenever/wherever you play that you have someone with a sign-up sheet getting people's email addresses. You will then enter them into your mailing list. I can't stress enough how important it is that you create this fan base. This element is one of the most important when starting a rock band. This list of people will be who you market your shows and recorded music to for a long as you want to make money with your music. Every show you do without getting these emails could be the difference between you becoming a hugely successful, professional musician, or just having a fun hobby.

Most aspiring musicians fail to succeed, not due to a lack of talent, but from a lack of knowing what to do. The difference between supporting yourself as a musician or having to live off macaroni and cheese is simply having the information you need, and then acting on it.

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Related articles

Avoid Legal Disasters With Your Band

2012-04-02T00:09:00.000-07:00

Singer of the finnish thrashmetal band Mokoma. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Being in a band should be fun. Most people who play do it because they have to; it is part of their soul. What musicians need to know is that the band business is full of potential legal liability. Very few people see it that way, but they should. A band usually travels, it owns heavy electricity based gear and lights; much of which is very expensive. The band relies on as many people as possible coming too one place to see them if they want to succeed. A lot of the places that bands hang out serve alcohol and people are there to let loose, party,and have a good time.

As an active musician and a lawyer, I see both sides of this. The fun, rewarding parts as well as the potentials for legal disaster if your band does not take the proper steps. These potential disaster scenarios are present regardless of whether you are a small startup band playing in the bottom tier clubs or parties or have gained some popularity and are playing larger venues or the big stage.

There are many disaster scenarios. Legal training teaches you to think in these terms. I can't help it. It is as much a part of me as the guitar licks on Dark Side of the Moon. Here is just one such disaster scenario that I think everyone who has ever played in a band will realize is not at all far-fetched. There are many others, but here is one.

Disaster Scenario

You have worked hard to put your band together. Over the past 4 years, you have had several changes in lineup. First you replaced the drummer that was late on every fill and had the personality of Eyore from Winnie the Poo. Then you vocalists' wife was jealous and you ended up replacing him. The lead guitarist had a huge ego and was messing up the vibe. This story of building a band are common. We have all been there.

Now, finally, you have a cookin' band. Your summer is looking great: all festival dates, even a couple of big backup dates. The band is cookin'. You have hit your stride. Success is coming, you can feel it.

After the gig, Tom, the lead singer gets in his car to drive to an after bar party. On the way there he swerves into the coming lane and runs head on into another vehicle.

Toms has no insurance. Tom has no assets. His only income comes from the band. The other car involved files a lawsuit. Who are they going to sue?

If you have not organized your band through an official corporate or LLC entity, every member in the band is likely to be sued. The law is likely to deem you to be a partnership. Every partner is jointly and severally liable for all damages caused by other partners. That means everyone is potentially responsible for the full extent of the damages.

Now let's say the drummer, let's call him Jim, has a great job. He has amassed a ton of money in the bank and investments. He owns a million dollar home where the band rehearses in his plush rehearsal room. He owns multiple businesses. He is set.

The lawsuit comes up and finds that the singer was responsible for causing the accident. 100 % responsible. Each member of the band is joined as a party because there was no legal entity formed for the band. The band members filed a motion to dismiss early on in the lawsuit claiming that the singer was not acting within the scope of the business of the band. The court rules that he was acting within the scope of band business at the time of the accident. He was leaving a band show.

Damages come down at $5,000,000. Each partner is liable for the full $5,000,000 under joint and several liability principles. There is no insurance. Everyone except Jim is poor. Jim is worth $10,000,000. Who do you suppose is going to pay the damages? Jim, who drank water all night.

The next thing that happens is that Jim gets summons to appear at a supplemental collections hearing where the other side asks him questions, under penalty of perjury, about what he owns, what he is worth, where his assets are etc.

The next thing you know, Jim's house is attached. His wages are garnished. Someone comes and gets his boat. All sorts of things start happening in Jim's life. All because he played in the band where the singer got drunk and swerved in the oncoming lane on the way home from the gig.

A lot of bands are pretty apathetic about their business structure. They go to gigs, collect cash and split it up at the end of the night. They give very little thought of legal liability or protection of assets.

So the lesson here is, if you are in a band do not assume that you are immune from possible liability just because you have not yet "made it" or you are just doing it on the side. The band business is filled with possible legal issues, regardless of the size or success of the band. You need to take the appropriate legal steps to protect yourself and your assets from exposure to these risks.

How To Market Your New Band

2012-03-20T22:55:00.000-07:00

The Strokes live at Stubb's March 14th night before SXSW. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When you start out life as a new band it is important to get out of your garage or practise venue and introduce yourself to the wider public. If you are seeking to secure a record deal and aim for a successful music career as a recording artist being able to perform live to a high standard, book your own gigs and gain exposure is essential. Starting a band is tough and becoming a professional band is exceptionally difficult to achieve, but it is possible if you get certain aspects of the process right.

This article will assume that you have the talent, you have tracks of sufficient quality and you have

the drive to succeed. Now let us focus on how to get known in your local area where you will hopefully begin making a name for yourselves.

1. No Gig Too Small

Most bands begin in pubs playing to a very small audience earning zero fee. You should go and meet gig venues and offer to play a gig and emphasise that you will promote it yourselves. An Email is simply not enough and more often than not you will get no reply. Visiting the venue shows that you are serious and this will secure you many bookings.

When you are starting out the experience of playing live, dealing with your PA system and getting the sound levels right for your performance is an essential part of being a reliable and quality live act. Pad out the audience with friends and family and take constructive feedback on your performance from the venue owners. Hopefully they will invite you back and tell their industry colleagues in other venues what a great idea it would be for them to book your band for a gig.

2. Learn basic PR

Common sense is the way forward in terms of your PR. Contact the local press and invite them to attend each gig but do not get too pushy with them as they get many invites of this nature. It may take some time and many requests before a reporter comes to your gig. Hopefully if you keep asking, eventually they may have a free evening and come along. At this point you must have the talent to impress them.

Send out well-written press releases to local music websites, magazines and local events portals with a high resolution photo they can use as a thumbnail or avatar for their listing or article. This makes it easy for them to create an article in a short amount of time which increases your chances of getting exposure.

Another good idea is to provide small leaflets for the venue in advance and ask them to distribute

the leaflets to promote the event. It is in their interests to get customers into the venue so they will often be receptive to this type of promotion. Let the local youth club or youth organisation know you have a gig as young people love music and are often looking for things to do in the evenings.

3. Fully utilise the Internet

There are many social networks dedicated to music and you should have a webpage on all of them, particularly the larger ones. You should add photos, video, event information and connect with other users who will hopefully love your music and become your fans. Having these pages helps create a really professional feel for your band and make you look very established. Mailing lists are fantastic for getting the word out about a gig or a new music release. The social networks can store playable mp3s of your band performing and videos of your performances. Ensure that any media you use whether audio or video is good quality or you will make yourselves look like amateurs.

Do not fall into the trap of thinking you are better than you are. There are thousands of bands out there and plenty of options for a venue owner that you offend either by accident or on purpose. Remember the worlds biggest and best bands can get away with bad behaviour because they guarantee big money and are in high demand. The majority of bands are easily replaceable if they prove too difficult to work with!

Your success as a new band in the early days is about is getting your band known, and creating a good first impression. That will open some doors which will put you in a better position to hopefully landing that big break.

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A Band Is A Business

2012-03-08T01:48:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

The title of this article contains a statement few musicians are willing to accept. A band that does not accept this fact is still running a business, but is probably running it very poorly. Accounting, Management, and Marketing are all crucial factors in achieving success in this cut-throat industry.

Any venture desiring success must first define what success means to them. Is success playing 50 shows per year? How about 50 shows per year to crowds of 500+ fans. Or even better, 50 shows per year to crowds of 500+ fans paying $10 for tickets. Whatever your definition of success, it must be determined from the start. That definition will be your goal and your guiding light.

"Failing to plan is planning to fail." This statement made years ago by one of my favorite college professors has stuck with me and rang true in so many situations. You have your lofty goal of selling 10,000 albums per year. That is a great goal, but no goal is worth a dime if you don't know how you are going to get there. So many times, musicians take a haphazard approach to their operation. They know they want to be the next Led Zeppelin, but planning it out is too boring. They "need" to be out there playing shows and living the rock lifestyle! Wrong. Sure, shows are important. But, if there are 12 people at your show, including your parents and a couple aunts and uncles, that show is likely a waste of your time. It might be good practice, but once you're past the beginner's stage, it's time to get serious.

So, now that you're sold on business planning, here's how to do it. There are many variables that must be addressed in your business plan including marketing, competition, operating procedures, personnel, finance, and accounting. Seriously, all of these must be addressed. To have fans you need to market. That's pretty obvious. You need top of the line marketing materials, so people take you seriously. What other bands out there are begging for the same gigs that you want? What do they play? How good is their show? Can yours be better than theirs? These are all questions you have to ask yourself. Fans are going to go to the most entertaining show, so you need to be competitive with the other acts in your region.

How will you run the band? How many times per week will you practice? What time are these practices? How many songs need to be rehearsed/written at each practice? These things must be planned out, or too much time will pass with nothing accomplished. Who is going to buy the van, PA, and other equipment? It may be necessary to look into financing and work with your band to find options that work for you. And finally, the most boring of all, accounting. You will sell albums, T-shirts, hats, tickets, and a multitude of other merchandise. You must know what you owe your suppliers for these items, when it must be paid, how many you need to order to satisfy the demand of your fans, how much you must charge to turn a profit, and how much you owe uncle Sam. For more details on business planning visit sba.gov.

There you have it. Those are the primary components of any worthy business plan. Now, go make your own lofty goal of becoming the next Led Zeppelin or Metallica. But remember, if you're serious, figure out how you're going to get there first.

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Rock Music Today. Are We Getting It Right?

2012-02-11T16:34:00.007-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

There seems to be a gap in the music industry today. It seems that only the most extremes of rock music have survived this very fickle industry.

For example, if you turn the radio on, what you'll hear are extremes and styles of music. On one station you'll hear just talk. On another station you'll hear rapping, with words of violent underscores. On another station you'll hear classical music. On another station you'll hear someone singing about whiskey and forgetting their pain. On yet another station you'll hear rock music; namely what's left of what we used to call, "pop music."

The change in rock music, and what may be lacking, is what I would like to address at this time. It

seems there used to be a larger variety of pop music available when listening to rock music stations. However, at this time it has decreased to a narrow amount where one singer sounds like much like the last singer. There are not many songs available to hear of Celine Dion. One's singer that has managed to stay on top consistently is Christina Aguilera.

One could not argue with the fact that twenty years ago rock music was much different than today. And I'm not sure it could be argued that it is getting better all the time. Just about ten years ago Elton John had hit songs from the movie The Lion King, Celine Dion had a hit song from the movie Titanic.

The eighties and nineties had many hit songs from movies, including CaddyShack, Officer and a Gentleman, Dirty Dancing, Good Morning Vietnam, Moonstruck, and La Bamba. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that there are not many hit songs or hit song soundtracks from popular movies these days. Hollywood has attempted to do this but has not reached the peak it once achieved.

Going back farther in time, one could trace pop music back to the roots of rock-and-roll itself. Elvis Presley carved out a whole new trend in music. The Beatles followed with great songs and performances that changed the music world. The Beatles seemed to go through several stages and reflected it in their music.

When the Beatles first came to America, they recorded songs of love with lollipop lyrics. Following this, they let their hair grow out, and recorded music with more convoluted meaning, which seemed to question the rulers and authority of the times. When the Beatles finally broke up, brand-new music trends evolved with the music of Paul McCartney and Wings, and John Lennon's solo work.

Elvis started out as the Hillbilly Cat, recording for Sun Records. His Southern drawl was very prominent and his hair was a dirty blond color. Then he entered into the era where he died his hair black, completed a stint in the Army and had a whole new career in movies. This was the "movie Elvis." Then, Elvis entered into his musical comeback phase. He recorded rock music and performed live in Las Vegas during this time. The final stage was his jump suit stage, sometimes called the last days of Elvis Presley. This was the time during which, although he still sounded good vocally, he appeared overweight and bloated....but never missed a note.

Let's change styles right now in music and turn to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin were part of the Rat Pack. They performed in Las Vegas, recorded records, and made several movies. Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra certainly reflected unique talent, good voices, and wonderful music that we have to enjoy.

However, who is the next big talent we follow with a fine-tooth comb, from beginning to end? Who is the next Elvis Presley, Beatles, Dean Martin, or Frank Sinatra?

There is certainly a gap in rock music today. Sure, you can find many popular artists with popular songs. However, they all lack that certain uniqueness in caliber of performers of days passed. Maybe it's a lack of charisma. Maybe it's the lack of mystery. I don't know.

However, shows like American Idol are certainly trying to recapture that with what they are doing. American Idol is trying to discover talent that could be turned into another Elvis Presley or someone who will change rock music and be remembered forever.

Although they have discovered many unique and great talents, if you ask Simon Cowell or Randy Jackson, I believe they would tell you they have not found talent that has achieved what they originally intended.

Yes, they have found great talent. The talent they have discovered certainly lacks nothing on the vocal side of things. However, perhaps it is something in the personality of the performer that's missing that has not launched them to the status of Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Dean Martin, Jim Morrison, or Kurt Cobain.

Perhaps it is something these legendary artists possessed that was mysterious and unknown to us. There is definitely something missing. American Idol, along with many other music labels, are certainly still looking for someone to turn the music industry upside down.

I don't know, perhaps that won't ever happen again.

Perhaps the performers that managed to change music forever, like The Rolling Stones, Elvis, the Beatles, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, are of our history and days past. I hope not.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Mean Business by Bob Findlay&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Facebook Online Music Irritants

2011-11-18T19:13:00.000-08:00

The vast majority of online musicians conduct their business in a professional and consistent manner. This professionalism is in the overall interests of their followers, prospective followers and fellow musicians.

A great deal of online music promotion is down to good administration and timing. Supporters don't want to know every time a musician blows their nose or be reminded countless times in a short period of time that they have a new song completed. There is no need whatsoever to post the same 'news' on sharing sites many times over in a short period of time.

Quite some time ago I decided to block posting on my Facebook profile page. I was noticing bands posting their music site of choice slowly but surely increasing to the point where my posts relating to my music almost vanished amidst a collection of other bands. I have nothing musically against these bands but it came to a head when I posted a link to my ReverbNation page at around 10.pm. The following morning, I found that my page had been 'bombarded' by posts from no less than 16 bands!

I kept a mental note of these bands and things settled down for a while. Over the last few weeks, bands have

now been posting their links under 'comments' on my profile page; the initial posts generally being totally un-related. I also find posts by bands that are composed entirely in capital letters and exclamation marks somewhat off-putting. The bands message is over-ruled by the glaring nature of their posts; sometimes a few seconds apart.

I had no option than do post a pretty direct message regarding this. There are NO "three strikes." One strike and you're gone. Some musicians will be reading this thinking I'm an egotistical bastard. People who know me know otherwise. I noted that I lost about 8 'friends' on Facebook since the post went up. I'm inclined to think that this is more to do with my singular use of the "f-word."

I am not targeting this entry at any band or musician. The culprits know who they are. The professionals know who they are too. I am not taking a holier-than-thou approach either. I've made the majority of these mistakes myself....but I've learned from them.

Music, to my mind, is not a competition. What will be, will be. There are followers of every genre of music out there. Respect this diversity. If handled professionally it is your best asset.

Is Music Changing Us?

2011-07-05T01:49:00.000-07:00

For a number of years the music industry has seen record sales plummet with access to free music all over the internet. People will often sample a song online but move onto another before it finishes as the possibilities of what to look up are almost endless. With the internet having impacted everything now-a-days to become more fast paced with little tolerance for patience, perhaps the internet has made that impact on music as well. When an iPod is filled with hundreds of songs and set to shuffle often times people will shuffle to a new song before the one that's playing has even finished. The cost and time to acquire the songs was virtually nothing so the desire to let a song play out all the way becomes less desirable frankly.

This attitude of impatience has in some ways left its mark on the music industry as a whole, as the music itself becomes less valid to a recording artist. There needs to be an eye catching event or controversy to promote themselves online for the population to look into and only then take an interest in hearing the music. Not to single out these specific artists but in many cases rappers will try and develop a following by trashing a fellow rapper's material and calling them out for some kind of big clash. Fights begin verbally and physically, feuds develop, a reputation is made, and only then is the rapper's actual recordings brought up to hear. This may in some cases lead to artists not putting a full effort into their music instead focusing on a big PR stunt to add a controversy to their name and let the music be a secondary aspect.

Sometimes certain groups or styles of music can just become outdated or a different lineup for a band is not able to bring as solid a performance as a previous incarnation could; as a result, music itself is not as important as keeping up a certain band label and in the end the music suffers for it. A prime example of this is Guns n Roses or what passes for it today. The early albums that came out under the GnR label had a raw, hard sound that was to many people the launch of a strong, hard rock rebellion that helped reshape the music business; Rolling Stone magazine and other critics sited the band as revolutionary in ways the Rolling Stones were back in the '60s and '70s. But the feuding between the bandmates led to a split; Steven Adler the original drummer was fired due to a heroin addiction, Izzy Stradlin the rhythm guitarist and co-writer on some of the best songs quit the band as he was unhappy with Axl Rose. Slash and Axl had a huge meltdown that to this day is still unresolved, and Duff McKagan the bassist followed Slash's exit. Since then all these artists have gone their separate ways shattering what was one of the best sounds in modern music. Axl is the only remaining member of GnR and his attempts to maintain the label have been nowhere near capable of putting out music that was the trademark of the old GnR. He continues his feuds with his former bandmates, other bands, and causes many PR stunts at his shows to try and keep up an image but the music itself fails to grab attention and be solidified. The music is forgotten about because it doesn't seem worth the effort of listening to; the only reason the label is still in the media is because Axl's ego refuses to let it go.

Other times there are artists who are the children of successful artists, and try and use mommy or daddy's name in the industry as leverage to promote themselves for similar validation. An example of this is Kelly Osbourne who granted, has basically given up after making her initial attempt to use daddy's name for her own promotion. Another is Will Smith's children particularly his youngest daughter with her single that basically is one line repeated again and again. These attempts to use the parents' success falls flat and adds more questions as to what is happening in the music industry today. There's no question that Ozzy Osbourne and Will Smith each are two of the most successful artists in music, their contributions to the industry will live on long after they're dead. But their children's attempts to leech, to put it bluntly, off the success of their parents raises the questions as to what record companies are signing onto. Is talent no longer a requirement, just a name and bottomless pockets?

One positive aspect in the music industry today is artists are in larger numbers writing music that caters to protests against government and big business who choose to ignore issues around the world that need a voice to stand out and be heard. Key modern examples today are Rise Against and Anti-Flag, two bands that have made it their trademark to stand against government, particularly right wingers, and call out big business on their morally and sometimes legally ambiguous actions. Modern technology may have impacted the patience of music lovers to listen to music all the way through; but it has also led people en masse to become more aware of social, environmental, and political issues around the world. Artists catering their music as a voice to the 'waking up' of global civilization in regards to these issues has served to reignite a flame in the music industry; with deep poetically blunt lyrics mixed with an angry, raw sound demanding better of executives higher up, Rise Against and Anti Flag along with many other artists have gathered massive followings of people who share these opinions and hear the sounds of their thoughts echoed in the music they love.

So the music industry has its ups and downs, what business doesn't eh? The problem is there are far too many downs these days and the music itself is suffering for it. Some of the best music has a message to it that the artists writing it are keenly passionate about, this passion is what's needed to maintain good music. Lyrics don't necessarily need to be poetic or even protesting, but there should be some point to what's being written about. Together with a solid sound music is able to at times make people relaxed, make people think, make people be focused, make people want to better themselves. Music is very powerful and rightly deserves its power but only when used properly.

Mean Business by Bob Findlay

Music Promotion

2011-06-27T01:02:00.000-07:00

Every musician starts off as an independent artist whether they care to admit this or not. Unless they have a truckload of cash behind them, independent musicians have had very limited control over the release of their material and any balanced financial playing field.

Keen to have their music made available to the widest possible audience they 'climb aboard' the major distributors without giving much thought to alternative options.

Before we knew it & without realising it, independent musicians were (& still are) giving away of unfathomable amounts of music at the request of various parties who would profit from this. As if this wasn't enough, the very same musicians were (& again, still are) having to pay outrageous amounts to have their music distributed.

To go even one step further, the independent artist has virtually NO say in the way their material is promoted. Why is this? Because an independent artist won't make the large corporations money. You pay your subscription & your latest work virtually vanishes.

When the internet began, the floodgates were open to all and sundry as people have access to so much music and are willing to pay through the teeth for it in droves. Music marketing became so 'in your face' and one-sided that it made me feel ill. It still does.Seeing the same names, images and song titles at every turn has, to a large extent, numbed people to it all.

As you read on you will slowly piece together your very own formula to making your music a more than viable financial commodity.

You have all the equipment, you have the ability, so name me one thing that can stop you? Nothing.

Many independent musicians, particularly newcomers, feel that they're not up to the challenge. Perhaps it's because they don't feel that their singing voice is so good or that they could be better on a particular instrument. Okay, let's say they're right! Bet you haven't heard that before.

Let's say you're singing voice doesn't have a wide range. It doesn't HAVE to. Find the range that suits your voice & stick to it. THAT is you brand. You're not as competent as you'd like to be on a particular instrument. Okay, play what you are comfortable with & what sounds good....that is your brand. Get the picture? If you apply this philosophy to your music in general you will soon find people commenting that they 'recognise' your music. Take this as a HUGE compliment.

The thought of having your music listened to by all & sundry has been known to overwhelm some musicians, sometimes to the point of inaction. Whilst this is a perfectly normal & understandable response, it is at EXACTLY this time when your best work can come to the fore. It's such a basic mindset that you'll kick yourself when I tell you. ALL that you read on the internet is how daunting it is. With no-one saying otherwise, why should you think any different?

• They don't WANT you to be confident from the outset! What various organisations want is a pliable & submissive musician. A musician who will pay for upgrades on their site when they are 'kindly offered.' If a musician appears to be confident enough in themselves to go it alone, they are of no use to the organisation.

• Sick of being told how better you 'could' sound? When you first enter the realm of online music, even the most competent musicians can be somewhat awestruck by what's on offer. I know I was. The key element here is the "what's on offer" part. There are CD duplication services, cover design services, CD cases, mastering services, new software, songwriting competitions, song competitions and so forth. ALL of these items, which are plugged as being necessary come at grossly overinflated prices & with the exception of mastering services, NOT ONE of them improve your music. The only thing that will improve your music is YOU. Whether it be in the form of a new set of guitar strings, singing lessons, being more patient at the mixing desk.

• Do your thing! Be ever vigilant not to fall into the trap of being over critical of your work. By doing this, you are falling into the traps laid by the online music organisations who want to make money from you & WANT you to think that you need their paid services. When you're in the studio or wherever it is you record always bare in mind that this is YOUR domain. If you make a mistake (& you WILL make countless), you are the only one to know. You now have the ULTIMATE OPPORTUNITY to experiment & be creative, discovering sounds, combinations & techniques that you never thought possible.

• THIS IS ALL FREE!!! I haven't told you anything in this chapter that you isn't already taking place with regard to the relaxed intimacy & creative freedom involved in the creation of music for online distribution. Stage-fright doesn't exist in the studio. Neither does cost. Of the online music sites that you have dealt with, how many have said what I have just said WITHOUT mentioning the cost that THEY seek from you time after time?

• You don't need them! With careful & ENJOYABLE planning at YOUR OWN PACE it is possible to create a highly marketable online presence with your music. I deliberately capitalised 'ENJOYABLE' & 'YOUR OWN PACE' as you rarely see these words on the pages of major sites. They tend to focus on 'buy now' & 'hard work,' etc. I don't care what anyone says, but NOTHING has to be 'bought now,' in fact this book will show you that nothing has to be bought AT ALL. If you are ever feeling that creating & promoting your music is 'hard work,' you can take a break at ANY TIME. The big-guns don't tell you that either. It's no crime to take a break, in fact I think it's an art-form in itself knowing WHEN to. It's natural that you will be keen to 'socialise' when you first enter the online music industry....& you should. It is important, however, to bare in mind that you are only going to get BUSIER. Make the most of this time. It is an EXCELLENT opportunity to set your own benchmark.

• Create your own stamp. They say first impressions go along way. This is never more true than in the online music industry. Generally speaking the first image, song & bio. line of an artist will remain with you for years. Following on from this mail will soon be coming & going between you & fellow musicians. This initial flurry of activity WILL stay with you for many years. The impression that you leave on THEM as a newcomer will last likewise.

Music Managers

2011-05-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

For many independent artists, the D.I.Y option is chosen either by design (because they are perfectly happy and capable of doing things without a manager or label) or by default (because they are unable to attract the attention of a manager or label). Either way, artists have lots of help getting things under way.

In this D.I.Y era, dozens of fan relationship management resources like Reverbnation and FanBridge, among others, are marketed to artists as tools that enable them to engage with fans in a more direct and meaningful way. Sites like GigMaven and Sonicbids enable artists to pitch directly to venues and book their own tours. Resources like Sellaband, Pledge Music, Kickstarter and others enable artists to raise money for recordings, videos, tours, and more. Music libraries and licensing agents (like those found at Music Library Report) offer assistance with music placements in Film & TV productions. Digital distributors like Orchard, CD Baby, Tunecore, IODA and others offer musicians a means to distribute their music directly to fans via iTunes, etc. Social media networks (Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, etc) make it possible for artists to handle publicity duties themselves.

So, with all these resources available to artists, what exactly is the artist manager's role in today's D.I.Y era? With fewer artists interested in record deals today, a managers' role has evolved away from choosing which labels/agents/publishers/attorneys to work with, towards finding ways to best help artists increase their fan base and generate more income.

The manager's role in the D.I.Y age is less that of an advocate and cheerleader, and more that of an analyst and advisor. The division of labor in the artist/manager relationship is for artists to concentrate on writing and recording songs, rehearsing and performing live shows, and growing and engaging their fan base; while managers analyze data and make strategic recommendations based on the information gathered.

Using resources (often in combination) such as Band Metrics, RockDex, Big Champagne, Next Big Sound, Band Camp and others, artist managers analyze data to help figure out things like:

• which of the artists' products sell the most (downloads, physical products, custom items, tickets, subscriptions, etc), and which sell the least and perhaps should be discontinued

• what new products can be added and which new revenue streams can be exploited

• which pay models work the best (fixed price, pay-what-you-want, donations, bundles, etc)

• which campaigns are the most effective (virtual street teams, newsletters, videos, chats, vlogs, blogs, etc) and which ones generate the most feedback and results

• which calls-to-action are the most effective (e.g., sign up to the mailing list for a free download, pre-order a limited edition, autographed CD, etc)

• what trends or patterns are developing, and how to best take advantage of them

• which platforms/widgets are most useful and relevant for a particular artist (review demos and sign up for trials to find the best fit)

• which songs, videos, images, t-shirt designs, etc, resonate with fans the most

• who the artists' "super fans" are, and how to leverage that relationship to generate more sales

• which questions to include in polls to figure out what the artists' fans want

• which ways do fans most wish to engage and interact with the artist

• what actionable information can be extracted from comments and feedback from fans and listeners

• where are fans clustered and what are the best ways to route a tour

• what does the data reveal that will result in an increase in sales and income

• what are the true costs of the artist's operations (i.e., what is being earned vs. what is being spent)

• And much more.

While artists can perform many of these tasks themselves (and indeed many do), doing all this alone along with writing, rehearsing, recording, performing music, touring, and interacting with fans will leave them very little time to do much else, and will often cause them to burn out and/or get discouraged when things (as they very often do) don't go as planned. The managers' role is to do much of the "dry" analytical work that helps to chart a course for the artist to take, while leaving the artist to create and perform music and engage with the fans.

As an artist manager, however, it is important to keep in mind that there is more to the "business" side of music than what these resources alone offer, and while all these resources, widgets and apps help to reveal a strategy; they are not in and of themselves THE strategy. It is up to the manager to have a deep understanding of how things work in the music business, and along with access to the best available resources, to formulate the appropriate strategy for the artist to follow.

A manager's role today must be to contribute more to the artist's career and financial bottom line than the artist can do alone or with the help of fans, friends, and family members. Without such a contribution, the managers' role will fade into insignificance while artists do it all themselves (even if they don't necessarily do it all alone).

Don't Fight The Law

2010-08-20T01:05:00.000-07:00

If you ask anyone who has been or still is in a band, the'll instantly tell you how much fun it is. I record as a solo artist and play all intruments (vocals included) These days I do it because I have to. I find writing, recording and producing exhilarating. A 'conventional' band on the other hand pose a totaly different set of variables into the equation. What musicians need to know is that the band business is full of potential legal liability. Very few people see it that way, but they should. A band usually travels, it owns heavy electricity based gear and lights; much of which is very expensive. The band relies on as many people as possible coming to one place to see them if they want to succeed. A lot of the places that bands hang out serve alcohol and people are there to let loose, party,and have a good time.

The fun, rewarding parts as well as the potentials for legal disaster if your band manager does not take the proper steps pretty-well nulify each other. The potential disaster scenarios are present regardless of whether you are a small startup band playing in the bottom tier clubs or parties or have gained some popularity and are playing larger venues or the big stage.

There are many disaster scenarios. This is where band managers step in. They should have multiple 'escape plans' in place on the likelihood of pretty-well anything going pear-shaped for your band. Here is just one such disaster scenario that I think everyone who has ever played in a band will realize is not at all far-fetched. There are many others, but here is one.

Here's the disaster scenario:

You have worked hard to put your band together. Over the past few years, you have had several changes in lineup. First you replaced the drummer that was late on every fill and had the personality of Gumby. Then you vocalists' wife was jealous and you ended up replacing him. The lead guitarist had a huge ego and was messing up the vibe. This story of building a band are common. We have all been there.

Now, finally, you have a cookin' band. Your summer is looking great: all festival dates, even a couple of big backup dates. The band is cookin'. You have hit your stride. Success is coming, you can feel it.

One night, you are playing one of the old clubs that you started out in, more or less for nostalgia but certainly not for the money. A couple of the members decide to make a party of it. These are old friends there and they keep buying drinks for the band. By the end of the night, a couple of the members are pretty lit up. After the gig, the lead singer (We'll call him Charlie), gets in his car to drive to an after bar party. On the way there he swerves into the coming lane and runs head on into another vehicle. He has no insurance. Charlie has no assets. His only income comes from the band. The other car involved files a lawsuit. Who are they going to sue?

If you have not organized your band through an official corporate or LLC entity, every member in the band is likely to be sued. The law is likely to deem you to be a partnership. Every partner is jointly and severally liable for all damages caused by other partners. That means everyone is potentially responsible for the full extent of the damages.

Now let's say the drummer, let's call him Adam, has a great job. He has amassed a ton of money in the bank and investments. He owns a million dollar home where the band rehearses in his plush rehearsal room. He owns multiple businesses. He is set.

The lawsuit comes up and finds that the singer was responsible for causing the accident. 100 % responsible. Each member of the band is joined as a party because there was no legal entity formed for the band. The band members filed a motion to dismiss early on in the lawsuit claiming that the singer was not acting within the scope of the business of the band. The court rules that he was acting within the scope of band business at the time of the accident. He was leaving a band show.

Damages come down at $5,000,000. Each partner is liable for the full $5,000,000 under joint and several liability principles. There is no insurance. Everyone except Jim is poor. Adam is worth $10,000,000. Who do you suppose is going to pay the damages? Adam, who drank water all night.

The next thing that happens is that Adam gets summons to appear at a supplemental collections hearing where the other side asks him questions, under penalty of perjury, about what he owns, what he is worth, where his assets are etc.

The next thing you know, Adams house is attached. His wages are garnished. Someone comes and gets his boat. All sorts of things start happening in Jim's life. All because he played in the band where the singer, who no-one knew was battling alcoholism, got drunk and swerved in the oncoming lane on the way home from the gig. The guy is plainly more of an alcoholic than he is a rock star like Eric Clapton.

A lot of bands are pretty apathetic about their business structure. They go to gigs, collect cash and split it up at the end of the night. They give very little thought of legal liability or protection of assets.

So the lesson here is, if you are in a band do not assume that you are immune from possible liability just because you have not yet "made it" or you are just doing it on the side. The band business is filled with possible legal issues, regardless of the size or success of the band. You need to take the appropriate legal steps to protect yourself and your assets from exposure to these risks.

Get your copy of "Mean Business" for only $5.00 (AU) using the codeword thistle
<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

Only Rock and Roll

2010-08-10T01:46:00.000-07:00

Rock and Roll is an exciting and highly admired genre of popular music which mainly appeals to the young generation....but not exclusively. This extremely popular form of music has attained great recognition and adulation amongst the music lovers for several decades. The most admirable aspect of this genre is its variety and unique style. This form uses several high tech instruments which give an attractive and interesting appeal to it. It can....and does....incorporate a vast array of instruments like synthesizers, mouth organ and piano etc. It also utilises instruments most commonly associated with the genre' such as the electric guitar, bass guitar and drums. Rock and Roll is the modern and advanced form of music that is comparatively faster and louder than the conventional genres like classic and folk. It gives the artists a liberty to experiment with variety of styles and express themselves with freedom. The soul of rock is the rock band or the group of musicians and singers who collectively play the songs.

The youth go crazy for this form of music; they are ardent fans of the various rock stars like Robbie Williams, Metallica Lady Ga Ga and more recently, young Justin Beiber. Many rock albums take you through the various aspects and emotions of life. The two that spring instantly to mind are Bob Dylans "Together Through Life" and The Rolling Stones "A Bigger Bang." Although not necessarily ranked as their best, they most certainly cover the widest array of emotions. The words of the songs simply enthrall the senses and thrill the listeners. In this kind of music the prominent vocal melody is accompanied with harder instrumental sounds such as a distorted guitar sound and more prominent bass guitar and drum sound, with keyboards acting mote as a backround 'fill.'

Rock music evolved around 1940's and 1950's. This genre is highly influenced by the country music and blues which were very popular around that time. This style was basically a blue-based song with fast and peppy dance tracks. One can find the classic albums on various online music stores. You can search top rock music albums on the internet.

Rock and Roll reached great heights with several amazing rock stars that awed the audiences with amazing performances. Elvis Presley is the most admired and popular artist in the world of rock; his unique style, classic dance movements and incredible songs entertained the music lovers. The Beatles are the most famous and highly applauded rock band. They had, by far, the most numbers of the chart topping hits in their time.

Eventually by the early 1970s the various rock bands emerged which were famous amongst the music lovers at that time. The bands from United States and Britain began to become immensely popular. Some of the most famous bands were Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, New York Dolls Queen and Judas Priest as the decade progressed.

By the 1980s a 'fresher' style of rock bands began to make waves in the rock music world. Bon Jovi, New York Dolls, Sweet, Guns and Roses, Twisted Sister and Kiss were the several most popular artistes of the 1980's. In the 1990's Rock soared new heights with emergence of some highly commendable forms like Grunge. This popular genre was associated with the fusion of various elements like hardcore punk and heavy metal sound to give amazingly enthralling melodies. The lyrics of the songs focused on the themes of social concern like entrapment and alienation. Many youngsters found this appealing and yet Bob Dylan had been conveying similar messages back in the early 1960s using only his voice and an acoustic guitar initially. The Grudge had heavy and loud tunes with extensive use of guitar and fuzz. Several famous bands like Alice in Chains, Candlebox and Soundgarden, gained a wide audience applause and appreciation.

The Britpop and Indie Pop were few forms that gained immense adulation in the 1990's. In the 2000 several new styles of pop gained recognition and flourished with great adulation. Garage rock, Emo and Metal core are the most admired sub genres of rock. Various rock bands like the White Stripes, The Vines and The Strokes came with some thrilling and happening albums. These are very famous CD rock music hits.

With the emergence of MTV rock gained immense hype and recognition. Internet further enhanced the growth of this unique genre. The highly popular rock music CDs are available on the internet, you can easily find your favourite DVD for rock music on various websites.

I sometimes wonder what the future holds for rock music; particularly for the independent musician....but I don't wonder for too long. I just get on with it.

Grab your 50% discount for the Rock and Roll album "Mean Business" by entering the codeword: thistle
<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

Musicians, Music And Money

2010-08-03T01:28:00.000-07:00

An industry that was once top-heavy with ultra successful millionaire rockstars is quickly changing. The slow death of the traditional record label is proof of this phenomenon. Once again, the internet has revolutionized an industry and leveled the playing field for all talent. No longer do you have to jump each time you hear label scouts may be in the area. The record label is no longer useful to an artist, as the internet has destroyed their competitive advantage of worldwide distribution.

Independent musicians, this is your time time to shine and profit. Believe it or not, you can still make a nice profit from your music. Record sales are dropping like a rock, so how are you supposed to make any money? A successful approach should be at least four pronged and should include CD's (I know I just slammed this medium, but it still has a few years left), digital music sales, ad supported downloads, and live show promotion.

There is no reason you should ignore CD's just yet. There are still a few people who have not yet accepted the digital music revolution and still like a tangible product. These are the same people who like to print everything, just in case their computer crashes and all of the web servers and backup media somehow crash or disappear too. Old habits die hard, I suppose.

Digital music is clearly being accepted as a primary mode of distribution today. In fact, 2008 saw sales surpass 1 billion songs. PC's, Laptops, and most phones can now be used to download music, making it that much more convenient to purchase a song. Fans at a live show can purchase a song on their phone without even leaving their seat.

Ad supported music is trying to catch on but it's having a hard time in this rough economy. It is the most logical next step for music. It is apparently very difficult to sell digital music, as services such as Limeware illegally make it available for free. So if you can't sell the music, sell the attention that your music garners. Companies are always trying to get inside the heads of consumers. Music makes targeting a specific market possible, as artists often attract only certain demographics. While websites that have attempted this approach have had limited success, there is nothing stopping you from going out and selling advertising in your community. Add advertisements to your banner or your promotional materials.

Finally, if you can't sell your music to make money, use it as a promotional tool. Give snippets away to attract people to your shows. If you're a new and upcoming band, most people have probably not heard you, and will probably not buy your music or attend your shows until they do. The internet provides free worldwide distribution, so make your best songs available to download for free and let them spread like wildfire.

The music industry is quickly changing, but that doesn't mean musicians can't still make a living from their art. It simply takes a little more creativity now.

Custom Search

Great Songs From An Independent Band Will Make Money

2010-07-29T17:36:00.000-07:00

The only way to make money with anything as an independent band is supply and demand. If they're equal you'll make decent cash. If there's more demand your independent band need more supply and vice versa. Many of you would like a record deal. That's understandable, but how many of you would your independent band to have a record deal just for the money? Fame you could care less about? Well, you wouldn't need a record deal then. This is where the supply and demand takes place though. Think about it like this, supply would be the deals and the independent artists would be the ones demanding them. Of course, deals aren't that easy to obtain but it's possible as long as you know what you're doing or what you need to be doing.

Here's where your independent band come in. Instead of chasing a deal for money, make money from those who are chasing the same thing as you! Of all the things needed to get a deal, great songs is the perfect way to help and make you a lot of money while helping them. Many people want deals but many lack great material.
Basically, you have the demand now supply it. Now you'll need amazing songs

in order to have people really spending money to get them. How do you achieve this? Not music theory or composition. Those will help but there's one thing you'll need to really prosper...a trained musical ear. Seriously! You can start writing amazing songs without even knowing how to sight read. You can base it off of what sounds good. From there you could learn all the theory you'd need but the fact is, great songs are great songs whether you can read music or not. Do lots of research and you'll find out the many of the most successful artists never took a music class let alone learned music notation. If it sounds good it sounds good. From there lyrics and song structure will be easy. Just listen to some great song writers in all genres to figure out what's the average structure per genre. Those songs will make you plenty of money because many people don't have trained ears. You can write a song in your head without an instrument being within a mile with a trained music ear. I do it all the time, infact I never enter the recording studio 'cold,' ie. With no idea of what I'm hoping to achieve. Once you train that ear and get the songwriting to that same level, you'll never be broke again.

So how exactly do you make that cash in 6 months? Spend two months working on your songwriting. While doing that train you ear. There is plenty of information on it if you just Google" music ear training." In my opinion though, I'd use software. It's faster to learn and it will track your progress for you. Okay, month three and four should be used to find those people looking for the songs. Use the internet and network where there is anything music related. Be sure to have some songs prepared for them too. If you cant sing, find someone who can and create a demo with four of your best songs on it. The last two months is where you work pays off. This is when you negotiate fees and start counting that money! What are you waiting for?!? TRAIN YOUR EAR! You won't regret it. Master that songwriting and in six months, you may be counting your cash for another six months!

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

I discovered Bandcamp some months ago and now use it as my primary distributor. Why? It's a no-frills site where you can upload on pretty-well any sound-file format....all high quality. Likewise, if fans choose to stream the album "Mean Business," for example, to your left as often as they like. Fans can also download singles in any file format that they choose. Again, all of the highest quality AND they download quickly. In the instance of "Mean Business" if you enter the codeword thistle at the checkout you receive a 50% discount. To view the discount doesn't leave you obliged to purchase it. On top of all of this, the artist keeps 100% of profits, thus encouraging us independent artists to drastically reduce our prices in comparison with the 'big guns.' I've always believed that transparency & honesty are the two most useful tools that independent bands should utilize to the hilt.

Getting back to perfect pitch, it is almost essential when it comes to making money with your songwriting. Once at least relative pitch is achieved, it could do wonders for your music career. Don't wait until it's too late. Start ear training today and start counting cash tomorrow.

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Make Your Audience The Stars

2010-07-24T01:53:00.001-07:00

Entertaining can be very rewarding, but it can also feel like a huge responsibility. When anyone takes the stage in front of thousands of fans, there's a job to do and a lot at stake.

Entertaining is as much as an art form as the music one plays. It takes many years to learn that when a true entertainer takes the stage, that the concert is not about the entertainer, it's about the people in the audience. The entertainer is not the star, the audience is the star.

For example, for many years you to take the stage and the first thing that you do is to start blasting away and showing off your quick hands on the guitar trying to impress the crowds, your fellow musicians, and yourself. This works, to a certain degree. You should have a thick press kit of critics comparing you to the legends but the problem was that it didn't translate at all into good CD sales. The fact is, the better you get, the slower your sales.

What was happening? You're playing for your own pleasure expecting audiences to dive into that realm with you. Some do, but others became alienated because they just don't have the musical knowledge to go there with you. Also, you're playing from ego and not from the heart.

Many performers seek validation outside of themselves by showing off and many don't even care what the audience thinks. But, the truth is, most should care what the audience thinks and what the critics think. Because, bigger audiences and more press equals more gigs and more money.

However, seeking the approval of colleagues, media, critics, and fans can be self-absorbing and self destructive if you're not careful. You should care what the audience thinks but at the same time be conscious of not trying not to impress them.

While I have always possessed a natural ability and desire to entertain, I learned that I didn't really understand how highly choreographed and entertaining were supposed to be. Certainly I understood that lighting, good production and communication with your audience from time to time was a good thing. But, I learned that just by using a proven template for winning presentations I could up the ante quite a bit.

The difference in my career was dramatic. I changed almost overnight from self-absorbed and trained technical performer to an entertainer. And, the best part is my sales increased exponentially. And, I didn't have to give up change genres to become an entertainer. I just had to learn how to package it.

So, what's important to anyone wanting to make a mark in entertainment? First, learn the psychology of human behavior then learn how to lead an audience. Then, find and study a proven template for winning presentations. That will help you to overcome any limitations you may have. Entertaining is an art form that can be mastered if you get the right information from the right master entertainer.

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Your Bands Press Kit. An Essential

2010-07-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

Any serious rock band must come up with an impressive band press kit to be given out to venues and recording studios. The press kit or portfolio is a musician's first step to success. Furthermore, quality music portfolio can bring more opportunities for a specific rock band. With this, it is important for the band members to focus on the things needed to complete the package.

Printed Documents

Printed documents like cover letter, band profile, song list, record of gigs and shows must be included in a band press kit. These documents must tell potential clients about a band's objectives, history and profile. Moreover, recording studios may want to ask what kind of genres and the cover songs included on the list of a specific band. It is also important to provide a band photo so that the profile will become reliable.

Music Sample

A start-up rock band must come up with a demo CD that records at least three of its best songs. Representatives from a certain recording studio may want to hear a specific band's music for evaluation. Before recording a demo CD, it is important for the band members to rehearse their part. They just have to remember that they need to produce a quality demo CD to impress the clients.

Visual Identity

A professional business card for the whole rock band can be included on the press kit. Most of the time, the name of either your manager or the band 'leader' is indicated on the business card. It is also important to come up with a creative and unique business card design to create visual identity. The logo, band name and contact details are also important in printing this kind of material.

These are the things that should be included in a band press kit. A start-up rock band must take this first step in order to achieve their dreams of becoming popular in the music industry.

Choose a specific offered at Vistaprint, and create a professional business card for your band.

Get your 50% discount for "Mean Business" by entering codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

Make Your Website Pay

2010-07-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

Following on from a recent blog on establishing your bands website, it's now time to get your music site rolling by understanding the machinations of your music website.

Let's say you are a great singer or you have a small band or even your own label. You have big ideas but only a tiny budget. Your father doesn't own a record company, like Sony BMG and your mother isn't a Hollywood actress like Nicole Kidman, so your network is confined to the local press writers and groupies.

Maybe you already have your own CD's and have made a few sales but you can't seem to find the time for promotion. The gigs you play bring in a little money but things don't seem to be getting anywhere. So how to progress?

One very realistic option is to exploit the potential of the internet with your band website. Of course, the internet has often been cited as the answer to everything, but in this case, it really can provide impressive results. And this is the key: it's a cheap and it's quick. It can even be free if your band is its embryonic phase.

The music industry is changing. We are in serious transition now. The discontent amongst music buyers has created a gap which the internet can adequately fill.

The internet music market is real. A survey by Georgia Tech found 41% of all internet users have purchased music from the web. Forrester predicted a market volume of $76 million USD for digital music downloads in 2003, rising to $541 million USD in 2005 and continuing to reach $2 billion USD in 2007.

The statistics suggest there is a genuine market for legal, modestly priced music.

The internet is a perfect platform for marketing your band website. Promotions, press releases and positioning are cheaper here than in the real world. Your audience is already here.

The internet's function as a communication medium gives you a direct line to your listeners, peers and even your critics. Email is the perfect mechanism for keeping in touch with fanclubs and sending newsletters and it's cheap.

That doesn't mean if you start a music website today and get busy selling music downloads online that you'll be able to give up the day job immediately! However, the internet can provide a lot of things you need to promote yourself as a musical artist.

This is what your music website will do for you:

1. Provide news to your fans when your latest CD is ready, read it here!

2. List gigs or concert dates (and any changes)

3. Sell your songs as music downloads to fans all over the world

4. Provide press information

5. Publish interviews, photos and biographies

6. Provide a communication center for dialogue with fans and other bands

7. Act as a "calling card" for getting new bookings or attracting the attention of major labels, getting contracts for incidental music etc.

A website can represent your music in multimedia, such as YouTube....much better than print or radio, and it is much cheaper than TV. And you can sell your songs as music downloads anywhere in the world!

mp3 downloads are emerging as a serious alternative to the CD. In an age where most modern kids burn their own CDs, it makes sense to adjust your strategy accordingly. Selling songs as moderately priced downloads means you have no production costs. You can even treat members of your band website with free mp3 downloads. It means you don't need a record deal and you are free to do what you want with your music. Package a CD cover along with the songs and your fans can burn the CDs themselves.

Buying mp3 downloads is potentially a more satisfying buying experience than traditional music shops. It provides instant satisfaction for consumers when they discover, download and play your songs immediately.

The internet is an amazingly flexible format. Theoretically, you could record a live show, encode and upload it later that evening so that the entire show would be available for sale the next day. Fans would love to have this as a reminder of a great concert. Better than a T-shirt!

Treat your music website seriously. Your music website is often the first port of call for people - fans, label managers and A&R to check you out. It makes good sense for you, as an unsigned artist to have one.

How To Get Your Band A Killer Website

2010-07-01T00:58:00.000-07:00

In an earlier entry in this blog I gave a very brief overview of tips and what is entailed with setting up a website for your band. Now it's time to get to the hard-core aspect of this topic to make your site really fly. I deliberately 'softened' that entry for fear of scaring you off. Ideally, by now, you may have read that particular post and surmised that there is an awful lot more to it. Now I'm going to 'cut to the chase.'

It is inevitable that you will have to, initially employ the services of a web site design expert. Ideally they are already an experienced webmaster. A competent and experienced webmaster will know webmaster tricks that you've never even heard of and probably not notice. Obviously, your webmaster will keep you up to speed on these intricacies. Your webmaster will also work closely in conjunction with your manager and your band. Once your web site design expert has every piece of knowledge that he requires he will immediately register your site under a domain name. The financial 'cap' on this should be pre-determined.

He will then busy himself making the site as visually appealing without too much 'clutter' whilst making literary tweaks in the interests of seo optimisation. SEO optimisation can make or break a site....and both factors can be achieved all too easily. This is why I highly recommend a web site design expert.

Once a 'draft' website has been completed, both band and management should be given access for either approval or further advice. Bare in mind, 'further advice' means further spending. Don't fall into the trap of having to borrow money merely for a website.

You are more than likely, if the person that you hired for your web site design is giving you their

all, tastefully and relevant Google Adsense Ads should appear on your site. If implemented properly, this can be a very handy form of residual income for your site.

On a final note, YouTube videos should be utilised on their site. Great care should, however, should be taken. YouTube videos of your band taken on a hand-held video from the back of a room aren't going to encourage return videos. I took the hint of a friend of mine. I mimed to my own soundtrack.....and it worked a treat.

Also, with regard to YouTube videos on your site, don't be afraid of saying a few words; a mini-blog, if you like. This brings your fans 'closer' to you. My advice in this department is....keep it short; ideally under 2 minutes. Keep your YouTube video content relevant but I encourage you to add your own personal touch

If you implement the above-mentioned strategies, I guarantee that your seo optimised website will very soon skyrocket in numbers on a global scale.

To claim your 50% discount on "Mean Business," enter the codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

Band Finances.

2010-06-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

Take a moment to see where you are in your music career and what you need financially to get you where you need to be. I am sure that one or more then one of these methods listed below will help with your music funding without having to seek legal advice with regard to having to refinance or formulate a debt management plan.

I'm sure that you are aware that the types of music career choices as an independent musician can have many financial expenses and in even many cases it is very difficult for many up and comers in the music industry to be able to finance their music dreams.

Prior to 'cutting to the chase,' there are a couple of seemingly easy, convenient and easy ways to raise funds for your band. The first is a pay day loan. These generally entail a relatively small amount of money being loaned to you for a short period of time. If you take it upon yourself to go for a pay day loan then be it on your own shoulders...not the shoulders of the band or your manager who I am sure would all be none too pleased.

In this entry I will go over a few ways in the hope that one may be able to get music funding to help pay for some of the things that may be needed to help move their music career along. Every thing that I talk about in this article can immediately be implemented if chosen to.

Additionally, seeking cash advances from seemingly 'helpful' sources generally bite you on the backside further on down the road. Any band member who takes it upon themselves to take out a loan, irrespective of ho attractive it seems, in the interest of the band are psychologically distancing themselves from the band. It will lead to unrest.

Like I said, there can be tons of fairly high expenses that a musician may occur when pursuing their music career. Listed below are a few examples of what I'm talking about.

Studio Time - $35-$100 an hour
Music Lessons/Vocal Lessons - $30-$100 + an hour
Sound Equipment - $200- $1,000's
Studio Equipment - $1,000's
Instruments - $100 - $1,000's
Touring Cost - $100's - $1,000's
Promotional Items - $100's-$1,000's

These are just a few of the many examples of how expensive having a music career can be and this is exactly why investing in your music may be needed to accomplish certain tasks related to your music.

Here are some music funding methods that you can try to obtain that can help pay for some of all of your expenses.

A Grant - This is one of the best ways to receive music funding due to the fact that in most cases the grant money does not need to be paid back. Many musicians miss out on this opportunity because they do not take the time to research grants and ho to go about obtaining one, but you should know that grants are real.

Loans - Another great way to receive some music funding is using loans. A small personal loan is not that hard to get. Make sure you go prepared and make sure you know your credit score. Let them know what your plan is for the loan and how you plan on paying it back. The type of loans that I speak of here are not the pay day loans and cash advances that I referred to earlier.

Small Business Loans - If you have a business established for your music career then you can apply for a small business loan. You can also qualify for a loan through the government which will

have a very low interest rate. It's worth searching the internet to locate your nearest local provider of such a service. This is an area for your management to be dealing with.

Credit Cards - They can be a great way to fill short term financing gaps. Try to find a credit card with a low APR or better yet an introductory offer of 0% APR. That way you can get what you need and pay it off later with the lowest amount of finance charges. Again, your management should be dealing with this area....obviously in consultation with your band.

Grab your 50% discount for "Mean Business" by entering the codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

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Your Bands Website. Part 1

2010-06-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Many working bands baulk at the notion of having their own website. This can be through lack of confidence or computer know-how or simply the fact that they are working so hard that time just isn't available. I cannot stress enough that in these modern times, an official band website is crucial for advertising. Having said this, it is not something that a band should jump into without research and consultation and precision.

Organise a meeting with your manager who should have no hesitation in delving into your credit card to employ an expert to do the job. You may think this is costly but after the website has been completed it should be a low-maintenance affair.

Once your website has been created, it must be promoted. Firstly, the most valuable source of promotion is the contact the band already has with potential customers: CD sleeves, leaflets at gigs, posters, and press releases. Putting the web address on everything the band issues helps to develop loyalty to the site, especially if the site has a memorable web address. Online readers have a very low attention span. Ideally, your site should be attention-grabbing without going overboard.

A free mailing list is all important and should be used wisely. The people who have joined your free mailing list are interested in your music enough to join. The most common mistake made by bands is abusing their mailing list by over-using it. Offer members occasional free mp3 downloads and so-forth.

Exchanging links with other websites gives bands a chance to collect visitors from like-minded sites. If you have obvious influences or sound like a well-known band, seek out the leading fan websites and get them to review your music and exchange links. You can find them using the Ultimate Band List which lists entries for free and will create a category for your own band if you ask them to.

By visiting a search engine like www.google.com or www.webcrawler.com and entering the search keywords you want to come up under, you can see who's already got the top entry across a range of search engines. Rarely can you unseat them, but you can often exchange links with them. This is a surefire way to becoming a 'regular' appearance on SEO searches.

In a world swamped with free music, it's easier to promote ideas than tunes, so it's worth extending the ideas of your songs into webpages and using them to attract relevant traffic. You can also write music tutorials or diaries, which are likely to draw people interested in your style of music who might then download one of your MP3s. Make sure that you use descriptive keywords in the interests of search engine optimization (SEO).

There's no point using 'music' or 'mp3', given the number of other sites using those keywords, but you might do better with '80s cover versions'. Be specific. You can submit your site to lots of search engines at once at Addme, but it can be more effective to submit the page to search engines one at a time by visiting them and then following the 'Add URL' or 'Suggest a site' links.

Another powerful promotional tool is the webring, a group of sites on the same subject that link in a chain. Visitors can follow the chain forwards or backwards by using a standardised box on each website. To find a suitable webring, visit www.webring.org. If you believe you're at the forefront of the next big thing, you can also start your own webring for free and set the rules for who gets to join.

Create a banner advert and encourage your fans to put it on their personal websites to bring you

traffic. You can also get a button from www.recommend-it.com that will automatically enable visitors to send an email to friends telling them how great your site is. In return, the visitors are entered into a competition to win US$10,000.

The Music Industry News Network is a free service that will distribute your music press release by email. To stand out online, you'll need to make sure you've got something unusual to say and a compelling reason for people to visit your website.

To get your 50% discount on "Mean Business," enter the codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

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Write Your Own Songs

2010-06-26T23:35:00.000-07:00

In this entry I'll be discussing how songwriting fits into the 'big picture' as opposed to
specific songwriting techniques, which shall be addressed in a future publication. Let's
face it, a song is a story put to music. Say this to most songwriters & they'll babble on
to the point of tedium. I'll cut to the chase.

Most people who listen to music and have no connection with musicians don't give any
thought as to how a song actually comes to fruition.

• People don't care how long you took, just tell them the story.

Write a brief synopsis about each song IMMEDIATELY on completion. Save this, along
with the song lyrics, to the relevant folder & print AT LEAST two hard copies. Add your description to EVERY site that you submit the track to. This gives each track an identity of its' own to the listener & to the all-important search engines before it has even been heard.

Song genre' (not everyone has heard of you...yet!) & tempo should be included wherever you are able.

• Let the song introduce itself.

Liner notes for albums, let alone individual songs, are grossly overlooked by most musicians these days. Give the public the credit they deserve. Liner notes work for you & FOR you. That's right. They're a win-win option that should not be passed up. You are PERSONALISING the song before its' even heard! You are drawing the prospective buyer inadvertently closer to a sale and you're giving a glimpse of what the song is about to YOUR way of thinking.

• Listeners rarely get the same meaning from your songs as you do. This is a HUGE positive!

How cool is it to have your own lyrics and music analysed

so closely as to have them
mean something totally different to someone you have never met? A great mistake
many songwriters make is to become 'precious' about the interpretation of their songs.

• Let people to enjoy your music as THEY want to.

By providing the aforementioned liner notes you are keeping your inbox clear of
lengthy descriptions of your own material. Whilst initially flattering, it becomes tedious.

Lyrically, people tend to enjoy exaggeration in a song. This can be problematic at times
but many years ago I found a couple of marvellous ways of doing this without any
effort at all. Swap from singing in the first person to singing in the second person.
Become “...the hollow guy at the bar...” If this isn't enough, swap gender!

• Don't sing about YOU & try role-reversal!!!

Each songwriter has their strengths & weaknesses. Well prior to utilising these to hilt,
one must be FULLY aware of them.

There is only one way to do this and it's the long way. Have one of your recorded
songs listened to by as many people that you know and have them honestly appraise
it. Ask them to actually WRITE their opinion down for you. Ask people from as many
different walks of life as you can. That's the easy part.

• Involve people before a song is even released!

Most people will initially laugh but believe me, secretly they'll be quite taken that you
have asked them. They'll be telling a lot of THEIR friends about it too! It's the most
congenial form of advertising that there is.

Now for the difficult part; sifting through your feedback. It will vary in every possible
manner that you can think of. Don't get bogged down. Look for consistencies, good
and bad. Keep firmly focussed on the fact that it is your SONGWRITING that is being
analysed and nothing more.

• So the guitar isn't loud enough. Who cares?

It is, of course, common courtesy to thank those kind enough to appraise your
songwriting skills by way of a finished product.
Once you have sifted through all of your opinions you should have a pretty definite
idea of where the general public see your strengths & weaknesses as a songwriter.
Now the fun really starts.

• Who are you really writing for?

Ask the vast majority of independent songwriters if we write because we enjoy it &
we'll say “Yes.” It's a pretty solid & stock-standard answer, otherwise we wouldn't be
independent. Ask the vast majority of independent songwriters if we write for the money, most jump up & down saying “No! Never!” Ask the vast majority of independent songwriters if we're writing for listeners, most will say, “Yes,” almost as an afterthought.

Truth be told, we write songs for all of the above reasons in varying degrees.

Get you 50% discount for "Mean Business" by entering the codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

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Internet Radio

2010-06-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

The world is increasingly beginning to revolve around the power of the internet nowadays. It seems that people are always surfing the net for work, studies, information and even for their own entertainment; well, mostly for entertainment. For many years, the internet has been the medium for much music and video download, streaming and other forms of entertainment. One particular breakthrough is the development and popularity on the use of the internet radio. With its increasing popularity there came various radio music software sites that cater to such fun entertainment. With its improved features as compared from its traditional counterpart, the internet radio has taken the whole world by storm and is getting popular every minute.

One of the greatest features of having this internet radio is its ability to broadcast data through the internet. This means that everyone in the whole wide world can access this new kind of radio and you are assured that the programs as well as the list of radio stations you are listening to are all automatically updated. The internet radio also has a large database giving users the ability to stream over 20,000 radio stations found in over 200 countries in the world. You’ll be presented a list of the top online music radio stations of the country you wish to listen music from. With so many countries as well as radio stations to choose from, you’ll never have to worry of boredom crawling in to your life ever again.

The internet radio also has an easy-to-use control panel wherein you can use to surf the endless lists of online music stations in all parts of the world. The control panel is created in a way that is easily understood by all. It is well organized too. For instance, some control panels have stations categorized by region or music genre so you’ll be able to locate your favorite radio station instantly. This is really convenient since the internet does have a large database, so by having specific areas or genre to choose from, you don’t have to search long for your preferred music radio station in the control panel. In addition to the well-organized control panel, you can also store favorite radio station as well as view your previously tuned-in radio station at the control panel.

Lastly, the internet radio has been manipulated extensively by various users. Of

course, they do want to stay modernized; therefore, they always come up with new ideas and gadgets that can promote this well-rounded radio. One of these modernized gadgets is the use of USB devices in storing radio software. This USB radio software allows you to bring along your radio in a compact form anywhere you want to go.

Truly the internet radio has served its purpose in giving quality entertainment to all nations. Being the latest version of the traditional radio, the internet radio has surpassed the boundaries of audio entertainment by catering its broadcasts to a global audience. This enables people to feel much closer to different cultures and traditions of other countries through the power of the internet.

Grab your 50% discount on "Mean Business" by entering the codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

ReverbNation. A Dream For Fans And The Independent Musician

2010-06-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Without doubt, ReverbNation is one of the most beneficial specifically music sites
around for the independent artist. ReverbNation offers the new online musician
outstanding free statistics, promotional tools and other means of maintaining contact with your fanbase.

The promotional and statistical tools offered by ReverbNation are a real online highlights.
Supporter sign-up forms come in varying sizes with colours also being able to be
customised. They can be deployed on your website, pages that you have on other
sites blogs and other online areas.

Additionally, ReverbNation have an assortment of mini-players that can be similarly
deployed. These players can be set on 'auto-play,' as suggested by ReverbNation. I
suggest NOT doing this and the vast majority of online listeners will agree. They're just plain annoying.

Uploading your original material is a simple affair. Tracks are accepted at 128kbs and the
download bar let's you know when the job is done. Take some time deliberating your list order and attempt to keep it static.

• Track 1 should NEVER be changed!

As I recommend for all sites, upload no more than 8-14 tracks. Keep track 1 at the top
of the list as it greatly affects your statistics and continuity. It also helps you 'climb' as far
as Google is concerned.

ReverbNation keenly encourages artists to offer a track, or tracks, as “fan exclusive”
free mp3 downloads. I have had this conversation with everyone from D.J.s to promoters,

musicians and followers. Their argument is the same old “people like free things.” They
use this philosophy as a means of attracting followers. I find this extremely patronising towards listeners in general and statistics show that it DOES NOT boost a musicians true following.

• You want REAL followers, not transients.

IF you do opt to offer a free mp3 download, use it wisely. NEVER use what you consider to
be your best track or your most requested. The “free mp3 download” widget IS a handy tool forplacing on your website, and so forth but bare in mind there's a lot of people will be put off by the fact that they go to download the track only to discover that they have to sign up as a ReverbNation member. Even though it's free, people STILL feel that they're being roped in and roped in by YOU, not by ReverbNation.

• Don't try to dupe the public.

Once you have your ReverbNation page ready, launch it by making it known on other
music sites and social networking sites using the assortment of widgets and banners
provided. Word will travel quickly, believe me.

ReverbNation gives your followers the option to join your mailing list. To my mind,
when used properly, it's THE single most powerful in-line communication tool for
musicians. To see it both under-utilised and abused by musicians played a part in me
embarking on the writing of this book.

• CONTINUALLY check your mailing list activities.

Initially you will have a reasonably high percentage of followers who also sign up to
your mailing list. By checking the locations of who truly is paying attention via clickthrus'

in combination with song-play locations can help you delineate a target
audience, geographically & demographically.
Through human nature your mailing list numbers will drop over time. Don't be
disheartened by this. A mailing list of between 10% and 20% of your total followers is a
good figure.

Mailing your supporters is FREE. One paid service offered by ReverbNation is
professional templates for your emails with additional features. From my experience
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Get your 50% Discount on "Mean Business" by entering codeword: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>

Buying An Electric Guitar

2010-06-20T19:02:00.000-07:00

It is a given that musical technology has changed a great deal over the past few decades but the electric guitar has remained essentially the same as when it was first introduced to the public.

The Simplistic Electric Guitar

In essence, the electric guitar is one of the most simple, classic examples of music amplification that was ever invented. Basically, whether you're playing a Fender Strat guitar or a cheaper beginner model, the central principle behind the amplified sound is almost the same.

How Electric Guitars Work

An electrical current is picked up when a string from the guitar moves over the coil. Maybe this is why it is called a pickup? Then, the current is developed and is almost magically turned into sound. If the guitarist is adept at his craft, that sound is called music. Nothing is much simpler than that!

The Differences

With that said, you will find a lot of deviation in electric guitars. In my humble opinion, the most crucial feature about an electric guitar is the way it feels to you. If you are not satisfied with the pickups residing on your electric guitar, and the sound is comparable to a dull thud, you can purchase new ones. On the other hand, if the neck on your musical instrument does not feel right to you, there is a chance you will never get the enjoyment you are entitled to when playing.

What an Electric Guitar Should do for You

A guitar is like an extension of your hand. It should respond when you stroke it and should not be work. In reality, playing an electric guitar is meant to be exactly as stated; playing!

When you press down on the strings of electric guitars it should respond with a smooth and even feel. Your guitar's neck should be right for your hand in width and feel, and the size of the frets need to be comfortable.

Fitting Your Hand to Your Musical Instrument

For instance, if your hands are oversized, your guitar frets need to be a bit further apart. For smaller hands, closer frets will be more to your liking. Go to the music store and you will find a smorgasbord of different electric guitars with unique fret boards, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding one you like in the price range you can afford.

Name Brands vs. Off-Brands of Electric Guitars

When choosing electric guitars, you don't absolutely have to pick out a name brand instrument. Many novice guitarists spend a ton of money and sometimes go into debt in order to own a brand name electric guitar.

Although a name brand guitar is nice to have and especially fun to show off to your friends, It will not necessarily make you a better musician. There are many styles of Epiphone guitars which are virtually carbon copies of expensive Les Paul models when you look at the inner workings.

Don't Let a Flashy Style Lure You

Just because an electric instrument seduces you with nice cherry Sunburst finish and gold-plated pick guard does not it is going to sound better that a less expensive one. Although the wood may look better it has hardly any relevance when it comes to the sound electric guitars make. The only exception I can think of is hollow body electric guitars. Then you may notice a difference in the sound quality.

Should You Buy a Really Cheap Electric Guitar?

With that said, it is also wise not to buy cheap, cheaper, cheapest electric guitars when a person is just learning to play. It is a blunder to purchase a beginner entry model.

Why do You Play?

The musical instrument you buy should give you enjoyment and be easy to play. Skimping on this part will not only make learning to play guitar a chore but may discourage you from learning the instrument altogether! The better the instruments the more you will love playing, and that leads to more practice. As with any other hobby, practice makes perfect!

The 50% Discount codeword for "Mean Business" is: thistle

<a href="http://bobfindlay.bandcamp.com/album/mean-business">Snake Eyes by Bob Findlay</a>