The Ins And Outs Of The Music Business

The Art of Storytelling

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 22:52:00 +0000

"Business storytelling is the exchange of events in images, sounds and words, most of the time by an embellishment or improvisation. Narratives or stories have been shared in every race and culture as a means of education, entertainment, and cultural preservation; in other to instill moral values. Crucial elements of stories and storytelling include narrative point of view, characters and plot.

The earliest forms of storytelling were said to have been primarily oral combined with expressions and gestures. Traditionally, oral stories were committed to ones memory and then passed from one generation to another. It has been said that oral storytelling remains the dominant medium of learning with low literacy rates."

“Storytelling has been around for thousands of years, and it's arguably your most powerful (and least used) tool for sharing information, building community, capturing the imagination, and exerting influence. By telling the right kinds of stories, we can bring about profound change, says Annette Simmons, author of The Story Factor: Secrets of Influence from the Art of Storytelling”.

The significant event discussed is the use of web video as a tool for sharing innovation and ideas. The speaker built trust and rapport by using relevant examples of web video innovations that include dance and other business that included entertainment, such as dances and shared knowledge through his speech. Ted discusses web video use as the proverbial “light show your stuff to the world” to reach the masses.

Furthermore, Ted references web video phenomenon as means of accelerating innovation in order to reach a broad audience because it can be easily shared. It is as simple as a point and click. It is because web video is applicable to all industries. This advanced technology allows the rest of the world to see innovation(s).

This speech discussed has helped me develop a deeper understanding of the topic presented that TED ideas are worth spreading. Moreover, technology evolution has advanced in the way that businesses exchange information and has gone from traditional medium to something more advanced to reach a global audience.

References

Sweeney, T., & Hochgraf, L. (2000). GETTING IT DONE. Credit Union Management, 23(5), 6.

Terez, T. (2002). The Business of Storytelling. Workforce, 81(5), 22.

Careers In The Music Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:32:00 +0000

If you are a music lover, you know that you want a career in the music industry and just do not know exactly what you want to do. There are lots of different career jobs in the music business, and just because you love music doesn’t mean that the music career you choose will turn into a dream job. My top three musical career interests are: a music promoter, music manager and music agent.

My interests as a concert promoter are because I love and enjoy live music. The main job of a music promoter, usually simply called a promoter, is to publicize a concert. Promoting shows are exciting, fast-paced and lots of fun. I enjoy publicizing a show or concert because they are the ones in charge of making sure the word get out. Promoters also are the ones in charge of booking the venue and artist, negotiating deals with bands or agents on dates for the show and provide accommodations. They also promote the upcoming show to the local press and radio, print flyers, put up posters and email their mailing lists.

A music manager is my second career interest in the music industry because I love and enjoying interacting with different artist. The music manager (aka the Artist Manager, Band Manager, Talent Manager, Personal Manager and Band Manager) has the most interaction with the artist and is the most important person in the artist’s musical career. They are involved in planning, coordinating and organizing the career of the artist. They are involved in counseling, and advising the artist on all matters related to their musical careers. The personal manager should research the music industry and know all about record labels, publishing companies, producers, booking agents, promoters, publicist, stylist, photographers, recording engineers, graphic designers, video directors, music licensees, etc., and how they integrate themselves into the overall career plan. The more contact the music manager has, the more effective they will be at their job.

A music agent is my third and last choice as musical career interest because they are they are the ones who make the live music happen. A music agent is also known as a talent agent, simply agent or booking agent. They are also responsible for negotiations with promoters and venues when it comes to arrangements for things like backline and accommodations and to the pay of performances. In addition, they arrange contracts with promoters regarding pay, rider, guest list, and equipment. The most common arrangement between a band and an agent is for the agent to get between 10% and 15% of the money paid to a band for a gig, though 18% or even 20% is not entirely unheard of. For this reason, it is obviously in the best interest of an agent to get the most money possible for a band from a promoter - the more money the band makes, the more money the agent makes.

If you are a music lover, you know that you want a career in the music industry and just do not know what you want to do. There are lots of different career jobs in the music business, and just because you love music doesn’t mean that the music career you choose will turn into a dream job. My top three musical career interests are: concert promoter, music manager and music agent.

References

http://www.artistmanagementresource.com/music-manager-roles.html

http://musicians.about.com/od/otherindustrycareers/p/musicagent.htm

http://musicians.about.com/od/otherindustrycareers/p/Promoter.htm

Experts View: Turning My Dream Into Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:12:00 +0000

It wasn’t up until week 4 of my Business Development Plan class that I realize that a business plan is very important to both potential business owners and investors. A business plan can successfully guide you through your journey. I have been following some of the top Band Managers in the music industry today to help encourage me to turn my dream into reality. However, I fully understand that I need to keep learning and it doesn’t stop with my college background. This is something that I have learned not only from my industry experts Guy Kawasaki and Jeffery A. Timmons, but also from Jayson Whitmore, a former Full Sail University student.

I have learned and understand that in order to be successful that you must know your market or competitors. I have learned and found possible companies that could potentially pose a threat as possible competitors after I decided to research and learn more about my current market. However, both Guy Kawasaki and Jeffery A. Timmons would be competitors to one and another if they were in the same market, but since they are in different market, they are both very successful in their chosen field. I am aware that there are many band managers in my area and in order for me to be successful that I must bring creativity and uniqueness to the industry. In addition, I understand that I must prepare myself to be ready to conduct research on my target market.

In conclusion, since I started my business from ground up, I have learned that this is not an easy task and understand that I have a long way to go and road ahead of me. Nevertheless, I need to develop a business plan that will grasp the attention of investors so that they will be willing to lend money to help me turn my dream into reality since it does take money to make money: quote on quote. I believe every section included in the business plan holds as much importance to one and another. However, I believe the sections of my plan that is most important to investors reading my plan are:

· Executive Summary

· Management Team

· Business Model

· Product

However, along with all the key components that an investor will look for, I believe creativity, uniqueness, passion and determination to be my strengths. This will show potential investors that I’m serious about my work and making sure that my business has longevity.

Reference:

Full Sail University. (2011). Jayson Whitmore: BPD Business Plan Video. In Full Sail Online. Retrieved December 18, 2011
http://course.online.fullsail.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=lms.activitiesDISCUSSION&activityId=555241&deliveryId=1121980

Jeffery A. Timmons (2011). How to Raise Capital.

Retrieved December 18, 2011

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/How-Raise-Capital/Jeffrey-A-Timmons/Q6381855?id=5225926089545

Jeffery A. Timmons (2011) Retrieved December 18, 2011

http://ecorner.stanford.edu/author/jeffrey_a_timmons

Guy Kawasaki (2011) Retrieved December 18, 2011

http://www.guykawasaki.com/about/

Business Plan 101

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:28:00 +0000

The key to a successful business is a well-put together business plan. Any one who has a vision and dream of starting a business will need a well-written and thought out business plan. There are several experts, business owners and entrepreneurs who have mastered the field of writing and reviewing business plans. The graduate program at Full Sail University encourages their students in the position to be able to develop a successful business plan of their own. In this month’s Business Development Plan class, we are encourage to focus on two individuals who are experts in the field of writing and/or reviewing business plans.

I have great interest in the artist management, graphic design and event planning industry. There are several experts who inspire me to become a successful owner in those fields. Guy Kawasaki and Jeffery A. Timmons are the two successful experts who know what it takes to achieve long-term success.

Guy Kawasaki was born in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1954. Dr. Kawasaki grew up in a rough neighborhood called Kalihi Valley. Guy Kawasaki graduated from Stanford University in 1976 with a major in psychology. After Stanford University, Mr. Kawasaki attended the UCLA MBA Program. While attending UCLA, Dr. Kawasaki got his first job at a fine-jewelry manufacturer called Nova Stylings. It was there that he learned how to count diamonds and how to sell.

Jeffery A. Timmons was born in Pontiac, Michigan. Dr. Timmons graduated from Colgate University. He also earned a MBA and DBA at Harvard Business School. Dr. Timmons is also famous all over the world for his innovative curriculum development, teaching in entrepreneurship and research. Dr. Timmons has been involved in the field of entrepreneurship for almost thirty years. His involvement has been either direct or an advisor in private investment funds and companies. He provided entrepreneurs with tools so that they can raise funds or obtain venture capital investors.

I have learned so much from Dr. Guy Kawasaki and Dr. Jeffery A. Timmons. They have the knowledge and experience in the field of writing and/or reviewing business plans. Both experts motivate me in various ways to make sure that my business plan is well put together. They mastered their plan and made sure that key components were there to carry out their business plan.

What are the critical & key components that investors are looking for in a plan?

There are four areas that are strongly looked at d by investors when evaluating a business plan. The critical and key components that investors are looking for within a business plan are:

• The Executive Summary
• Management Team
• Business Model
• Product

Why are these considered key?

A business plan should possess those four components (The Executive Summary, Management Team, Business Model and Product) in order to get the attention of investors. However, starting a business first before seeking capital from investors is also a key component that investors look for. Investors will assume that you do not need their capital and would make them want to dish out money to the business.

In conclusion, I have learned more than enough from my education and work experiences that it is not always as easy as it seems. I understand that it will take hard work and dedication to develop a strong business plan, but it can be accomplished. Along with a strong business plan, you should have faith and believe in yourself. That will also determine the success of your business plan.

References:

http://www.guykawasaki.com/about/

http://www.openforum.com/connectodex/how-to-change-the-world

http://ecorner.stanford.edu/author/jeffrey_a_timmons

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/How-Raise-Capital/Jeffrey-A-Timmons/Q6381855?id=5225926089545

http://finance2business.com/business-articles/the-components-of-a-business-plan/

Event Planning 101

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 22:45:00 +0000

When it comes to event planning or planning the perfect event, it takes time, hard work, negotiating skills, lots of hassles. There are several tools that you can utilize when planning an event. The three most effective ways are by email marketing, event marketing and social media marketing.

An event planner or a promoter can use email marketing as way a of planning an event or planning the perfect event. Email marketing is a process of direct marketing that allows electronic mail as a way of communicating commercially or delivering messages to the targeted audience. In a similar way to traditional direct mail, can be used to send promotions, direct messages, and information to prospects or members in mailing lists. Furthermore, StrongMail’s 2009 Marketing Outlook survey have found that only 37% of those polled expect to see a decrease in sales in 2009 because of current economic conditions (recession). “It’s telling that in this in this tough economic climate, a majority of marketers are actually planning to increase their spend on email marketing”.

Furthermore, another way of planning the perfect event is by event marketing. Event marketing is the activity of creating a themed activity. It is one of the fastest and growing fields in advertising and marketing today. You see it everywhere you look in today’s society. Event marketing is also referred to as event creation. It is one of the most effective ways to develop great a relationship with your targeted audience with teenagers and young adults.

In addition, event marketing is the use of social medial in order to increase the visibility of a business. However, social media marketing will help you get the attention of a broader audience. It is being referred to as the word-of-mouth for the digital age. The most popular sites are Facebook, YouTube, MySpace and Twitter. Social medial marketing allows you to generate a stronger and powerful media buzz. An event planner can also use social media in a way of connecting with their targeted audience and get followers to follow them. It also allows them to brand and promote their own businesses as well.

In conclusion, when it comes to event planning or planning the right event, it takes time, hard work, negotiating skills and lots of hassles. However, there are several tools that you can utilize when planning an event or planning the perfect event.

References:

http://search.constantcontact.com/event-marketing/index.jsp

http://search.constantcontact.com/email-marketing/index.jsp

http://www.businesswire.com/news/google/20081215005420/en

Managers And The Roles They Play

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:22:00 +0000

One who has career interest in the entertainment industry as a business manager or self managed artist, can and often research the different types of music managers in the entertainment and the role they play in the careers of recording artists and record producers. Managers also play a big role and invest lots of time sin the life and careers of songwriters and musicians. However, there are basically six types of music managers in the music entertainment industry. Those six different types of managers are business managers, music managers, road managers, tour managers, production manager and technical manager.

The music managers are also known or referred to as personal managers, artist managers, band managers or talent managers. Nevertheless, the music managers or artist managers have the most interaction with the artist and are always the most important people in the artist’s personal life and musical career. They are involved in organizing the career of the artist, coordinating for the artist and as well as planning for the artist.

According to Ogden (2002), "In my opinion, the greatest challenge facing artist managers in the current business climate is to develop long-term careers for their artists in an industry that is looking for a quick fix to its problems, such as piracy and other forms of entertainment. Consolidation has killed off artist development and left the industry completely reliant on radio and television, rather than creating a relationship between artist and audience” (¶ 38).

It is important to understand the methods and roles of successful music managers when planning is being proposed. The planning must be clear and precise. The audience must be well defined and the purpose should not be vague or complex. These elements are also effective in the entertainment and music industry, as efficiency and easily understood communication makes everything smoother for all involved.

References

Managers Worldwide Confront Common Concerns. (2002). Billboard, 114(38), 44.

Tolkoff, E. (2003). Personal Managers: TO SIGN OR NOT TO SIGN. Back Stage, 44(11), 28.

Taylor, C. (2003). Artist Management: When?. Canadian Musician, 25(5), 62.

http://www.artistmanagementresource.com/music-manager-roles.html

Industry Expert And Entertainment Attorney, David Bercuson

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:46:00 +0000

As a business owner and artist manager in the entertainment industry today, I find it necessary that I focus on my business plan directly. I have been encouraged to focus on developing relationships and networking experiences in the entertainment industry and business community. I have conducted a face-to-face interview with Mr. David Bercuson, an expert attorney who has established his career by dedicating his life and practice to all aspects of the entertainment industry.

During the face-to-face interview, I posed several questions to him regarding his practice and expertise in the entertainment industry today. I used question/ answer format to conduct the interview with Mr. Bercuson.

How did you get started as an attorney in the entertainment industry?

I graduated and received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Tulane University in 1968 and Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida School of Law in 1971. I got started in my career when I opened my own practice “Law Offices Of David Bercuson, P.A.”. My practice offers services in all aspects of the entertainment industry. We offer services in representing television producers, entertainment executives, music publishers, managers, composers, record labels and recording artists.

What is your area of practice and specialties?

My area of practice is in representing entertainers, music, television and film. I’m in charged of handling the day-to-day business and legal affairs for television networks, major record companies as well as independent labels. I am an adjunction professor at the University of Miami School of Law. I have been teaching at the University of Miami in the Litigation Skills program for more than twenty years. I am also an instructor on entertainment contracts at Florida International University. Some of my specialties are in domestic and foreign licensing and getting deals for major and independent artists.

Can you name some of the clients that you have represented and still representing today?

Some of the recording artists that I represent are Alabina, Black Violin, Bayside Boys (Macarena), Carlos Olivia y Los Sobrinos del Juez Flo Rida, Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine, Grupo Niche, Jason Derulo, Julio Inglesias, KC & The Sunshine Band, Ky-mani Marley, Luis Fonsi, Mary Wilson (The Supreme), Nayer, Nestor Torres, Trina, Scott Stapp of Creed and Tommy James.

In addition, I also represent major record labels such as Atlantic Recording Corporation, Biscayne Europa Records, Inc., G89 Music, Harrick Music, Henry Stone Music, Inc., Iconz Music, International Music Group (IMG), Jackpot Management, Poe Boy Records, Slip ‘n Slide Enterprises, Inc. and Strong Arm Management.

In conclusion, if you are in the industry and interested in seeking an entertainment attorney, I would recommend that you contact Law Offices Of David Bercuson, P.A. in Miami, Florida.

Reference:

www.bercusonlaw.com

Rest In Peace Steve Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 03:51:00 +0000

Apple’s Steve Jobs Is Dead

I feel that it was my duty and obligation to write this blog on one of the greatest pioneer and inventor of technology that ever walked the face of the earth, Mr. Steven P. Jobs. As I logged in to my 2010 apple laptop today to do an assignment for my Advanced Entertainment Law Course, there is a large picture of Mr. Jobs on the center with the dates (1955 – 2011) at the right on http://www.apple.com/ and all that I can think about was, “Tell me it’s not so”.

I was so in disbelief and lost for words that I turned to my favorites social network sites, which are Facebook and Twitter. There were thousands of posts and tweets about the death of the greatest leader ever lived. Most of the post and tweets read, “R.I.P. Steve Jobs”. I was still in shocked and the only way of expressing my feelings and emotions was through this blog. Mr. Jobs is one of my favorite expert industry leaders and he life story has always motivated and inspired me as an individual.

It has been confirmed that Steven P. Jobs, the co-founder and chairman of Apple Inc. has passed away today from pancreatic cancer. Mr. Jobs has been fighting this cancer since 2008. However, in 2009, he had taken some time off in medical leave and also early of this year. Mr. jobs had a liver transplant during that same year of 2009, but never fully recovered.

Mr. Jobs’ creativity and expertise have changed the technology industry into the digital world that we live in today. He has transformed the entertainment and music industry into a digital media. Mr. Jobs has so many accomplishments and successful stories, that one would not know where to even begin.

In conclusion, I would like to say that Steven P. Jobs lives on. He lived through technology, his work, four children and wife, Laurene.

References:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304447804576410753210811910.html

http://www.apple.com/

Industry Liabilities

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 01:25:00 +0000

As an artist manager, being in the entertainment and music industry today, I find it necessary that I write and discuss issues dealing with intellectual properties. Copyright and trademark infringement cases are among the most common cases that may have impacted my industry today. The most successful companies and musicians have found themselves in multimillion-dollar cases. Listed below are three cases dealing with copyright and trademark infringement.

Adidas’ $305 Million Trademark Infringment Jury Verdict Not Exceptional Enough To Merit Attorney Fees

This particular case involved adidas America, Inc. v. Payless ShoeSource, Inc., which was filed as early as 2008 against Payless for trademark infringement. On February 2009, the case was finalized and resulted in a jury verdict to $305 million dollars. However, Payless filed a new motion for a retrial, but the court found out the motion did not have enough evidence for a new trial. The motion filed by Payless did eventually reduced Adidas’ $305 million dollars to $65 million dollars under the Lanham Act. This judgment award has been said to be one of the largest amount of money awarded in a trademark infringement case ever. In my opinion, I don’t think it will be the last.

Adidas also wanted more money in attorney fees in the sum of $6,574,493.40 dollars, but jury found that Payless acted accordingly and the court will only award attorney fees to the company that wins the case. However, the Ninth Circuit Court did find the Payless guilty for trademark infringement.

In conclusion, the court also did not award Adidas in the prejudgment interest of $10,445,154.12, but reduced the award to $6,712,823.98 on the award of profits. Adidas also wanted judgment cost in award of $383,226.49, which was also reduced to $380,596.84 dollars. The court found that the infringing shoes only had two or four stripes instead of the three striped shoes that Adidas had trademarked. The courts further noted that there were proof and evidence of other companies selling two and four stripes shoes for many years and they did not enough proof that Adidas lost money in sales because of the infringement case.

In my opinion, I think the jury and the court did their best in this infringement case. The jury and court also acted fairly in this case because of that, they saved Payless a large sum of money. For more information and details about this case, please go to the link below.

References:

http://www.vegastrademarkattorney.com/2009/02/adidas-305-million-trademark.html

Apple wins copyright infringement case against Psystar in California

The case Apple Inc. v. Psystar Corporation is nothing, but an easy case of copyright infringement. Apple had filed a lawsuit against Psystar for illegally copying and downloading Apple’s code. Psystar was also found reliable in violation of Apple’s kernel encryption under the Digital Millenium Act. However, there are still some legal issues pending against them, such as trademark infringement, unfair competition and breach of contract that was not brought up in this case.

The court ruled in favor of Apple from the beginning of the case because Psystar was illegally selling, changing and copying Mac OS X. The court noted that even if Psystar was the original owner of the OS X copy, they did not lawfully manufactured it with permission or authorization of the copyright owner, Apple.

However, the court found Psystar responsible and guilty for DMCA violations, creation of derivative works and copyright infringement. However, there are more remaining issues and pending cases against Psystar. These are some of the reasons why a judgment and damages have not been awarded to Apple as of yet because the court has not decided yet and still do not how much Apple will be awarded due to some of these pending cases.

In addition, Apple and Psystar currently battling different cases over snow Leopard in Florida and are still in trial. In my opinion, I believe that Psystar will also found guilty of this case as well because of this current case.

In my opinion, I believe that Psystar is guilty of all those acquisitions by Apple. Psystar was also found guilty for downloading the OS X and booting it on non-Apple hardware. There are also a number of pending claims against Psystar, such as unfair competition claims as well as trademark claims. However, the court believe those pending cases will not affect the decisions in this case. With all these cases pending against Psystar, they either need to merge or sell their stock to Apple because when all these cases are over, they will have no money to run or operate the company.

References:

http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/14/apple-wins-copyright-infringement-case-against-psystar-in-califo/

Artist at Center of Oscar-Nominated Documentary Losses Copyright Case (Exclusive)

This particular copyright case is between Glen E. Friedman vs. Thierry Guetta came to light last year. Thierry Guetta also known as “Mr. Brianwash” and has been recognized for his artwork. However, the Oscar nominated artist has been found guilty of copyright infringement in the state of California.

Furthermore, it has been said that Guetta’s artworks have brought issues and debates because people have found his work to be similar to the originals. Friedman filed a lawsuit against Guetta for using his original work and photograph of the hip-hop group, Run DMC.

However, Guetta stated that Friedman’s photograph on the Internet did not have or come with any copyrights to get protection under the copyright law. Judge Pregerson stated that Guetta cannot defend himself under fair use because the court had enough proof that the two photographs were very similar.

Judge Pregerson eventually ruled in favor of Glen E. Friedman granted Friedman’s motion for summary judgment because Guetta had recreated and modified the photograph that had already been copy written by original owner. In addition, the court has not yet determined how much Guetta will have to pay Friedman and this is the next process.

In conclusion, I believed that the court had enough evidence and were able to find Thierra Guetta responsible and reliable for copyright infringement. In the entertainment and music industry today, it is very important that one gets permissions and authorization from the original owner because this will keep you from going to court and spending money on unnecessary fees. If Guetta Thierry had even given credit to Glen E. Friedman, he would not found himself being sued or found guilty for copyright infringement and this why it is very important that ones get permissions or give credit to the original owner. For more information on this case, please see the link below.

References:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/artist-at-center-oscar-nominated-195544

WE THE BEST IN THE STREETS VOL.1

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Industry Liabilities-Copyright and Trademark Infringements

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 05:48:00 +0000

This blog required me to analyzed three different liabilities associated with my business plan for my company. The three different recent controversies that impacted my industry that I have identified are: YouTube Beats Viacom In Massive Copyright Infringement Case, Kanye West Wins In Copyright Infringement Case and Waffle House Claims Trademark Infringement Against Rapper J.R. Bricks’ “Waffle House Song.

YouTube Beats Viacom In Massive Copyright Infringement Case

In this particular case, “YouTube has been handed the victory that they wanted, and has found legal protection and has set precedent that they, and others like them, are protected under the safe harbor section of the DMCA”. The DMCA means Digital Millennium Copyright Act. The U.S. Congress passed the DMCA on October 12, 1998. This act protects your intellectual properties and original content such as your pictures, videos, images and software on the web.

The YouTube v. Viacom lawsuit is over three years old. However, Viacom claimed that Google and YouTube had knowledge of them posting their material on YouTube website. They also stated that Google and YouTube participated in those acts. They also claimed that Google and YouTube owe them a lot of money.

From reviewing and analyzing this case, it appeared to me that everyone that they are pointing the finger at each other. It seems like all were involved in either copyright infringement or self-copyright infringement. However, it is stated this debate is endless. Nevertheless, it will cool down because Viacom wants to YouTube as way to promote and basically, just trying to clean out dry for infringement.

In conclusion, I think that Viacom should have at least gotten some legal documents, such an agreement or contract from Google and YouTube to prevent them from copyright infringement.

Kanye West Wins In Copyright Infringement Case

The case against Kanye West was filed last year, in 2010 for copyright infringement by Vince P. Nevertheless, his real name is Vincent Peters. Mr. peters had filed a lawsuit against Kanye West because he claimed that Mr. West had taken the song “Stronger” from him and made it his own song. He stated that he had given a copy of his song to John Monopoly in 2006. Mr. Monopoly is one of Kanye West’s colleagues. He filed a lawsuit because he believed that Mr. Monopoly had given the copy of his song to Kanye West that was released in 2007 on the Graduation album.

However, the lawsuit stated that there were very important parts of the track and lyrics that were kind of similar. However, the case was thrown out by Judge Virginia Kendall because she came to the conclusion and believed that Mr. Peters’ and West’s song were not identical enough to have a case.

How do you determine who win a case or suit such as this one? Especially, if “the suit stated that West's track “copies significant and important parts of Peters’ lyrics identically or almost identically." It appeared to me that this case could have gone either way because I don’t believed that two different people who barely knows each other can come up with tracks and lyrics that were identically or almost identically to each other because tracks and lyrics had to be written by one of them first.

Given the statement by Mr. Peters that he had given a copy of the song to one of kanye’s associate in 2006, gave many reasons to believed that Mr. Peters had been taken advantage and most like had a case against Mr. West. However, due to the lack of evidence, Mr. West had one the case. Maybe Mr. Monopoly rewrote the lyrics and reproduced tracks were given to Mr. West to use.

Waffle House Claims Trademark Infringement Against Rapper J.R. Bricks’ Waffle House’ Song

The third and final case is on trademark infringement. This case is against an Atlanta-based rapper called J.R. Bricks. Mr. Bricks’ real name is Earl Harrison, Jr. and he is from Havana, Florida. Also Mr. Bricks is a United States Air Force veteran. Not to long ago, he signed a deal with German-American digital imprint with Block Starz Music LLC.

Nevertheless, J.R. Bricks had received a cease and desist letter from the restaurant franchise weeks after releasing his debut song called “Waffle House” over trademark infringement. The song was released on iTunes on July 2011.

“Waffle House ordered the artist to stop using the logo on iTunes, and to change the title of the song, which is now called "After The Club." The restaurant rejected Block Starz executives' offer to change the song to "WaffelHaus (After the Club)."

However, Mr. Bricks was not pleased and claimed that the restaurant franchise does not want to be pat of the Hip-Hop industry, but the song mentioned marijuana uses. The franchise stated that decision is not because of the Hip-Hop lifestyle, but only because of the use of its name “Waffle House” and logo on iTunes.

Mr. Bricks also claimed that he doesn’t promote violence and profanity in his song, but just having a good time. Waffle House stated that they received several offers from individuals wanting to mention or use of the franchise names, such as TV shows, music and etc.

Furthermore, Waffle House said that they look at these situations on a case-to-case basis. Mr. Bricks was not the first artist to use the franchise name in his song. R. Kelly also had used the franchise name that featured Usher in the song that was named “Same Girl”.

In conclusion, I can understand where Waffle House is coming from because they needed to protect the brand name and content. However, this will prevent other artist from using the brand name and other artist from trademark infringement. I believed had J.R. Bricks should have gotten permission from Waffle House to use the franchise name. At least, if the franchise did not agree then they would have informed him or let him that he could not use the brand name.

References.

http://thenextweb.com/us/2010/06/23/youtube-beats-viacom-in-massive-copyright-infringement-case/

http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.14305/title.kanye-west-wins-in-copyright-infringement-case

http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/branding/waffle-house-claims-trademark-infringement-1005304292.story

ReverbNation Offers The Best Tools

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 05:12:00 +0000

ReverbNation

In the entertainment and music industry today, it is important that you utilize different websites to host your music so that your friends, family and fans can hear it. It is very important you that you are aware that once the music is readily available online, that it can be saved and captured. However, websites, such as YouTube and ReverbNation offer widgets that allow you to stream music from their servers through your websites.

There are several benefits by uploading music on websites, such ReverbNation and YouTube. Those advantages are that it is easier to upload music and video, you do not have to pay anyone for web hosting and they also offer statistics tracking tools, so that one can view how often their music are played and listen to. In addition, these tools most of the time offer premium features that are already built into your subscription channels and mailing list. This allows you and your fans to stay connected with each other.

“Using YouTube has some advantages. Even if the video is just a still image of your album cover, people are more likely to play videos than just listen to songs. Also, unlike traditional Flash-based players, YouTube works on all mobile devices.”

However, it is very important that one locates a company that can host MP3 files and the reason for that is because the music or video needs to be stream so that people can hear or see your content. Furthermore, ReverbNation is one of the best artist tools available today and also provides print on demand (POD) features to all of their musicians. The “Reverb Store” provides free tools that allows musicians to create their own store containing music downloads, ringtones, albums and other merchandises, such as T-Shirts. All merchandises is created on demand with no up-front fee.

A musician has the capability to create an electronic press kit (EPK) that includes bibliography, songs, videos, pictures, and upcoming shows schedule. ReverbNation also has the tools that enable you to share statuses and make recommendations. They offer digital distribution to all premium users. You received the right to your music once you have signed up and ReverbNation distributes 100% of royalties from the different outlets back to the artist.

In conclusion, as an artist manager, I believe that ReverNation is one of the resources available because of the different services it provides. ReverbNation has several advantages over other print on demand sites because of all the marketing tools that are essential to independent artists.

References:

http://www.reverbnation.com/

http://www.bandtogethernc.org/sponsors

http://www.juggle.com/reverbnation-com

Fern Music's Website Review on Digital Publishing and Distribution

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 02:03:00 +0000

Fern Music

As an experienced artist manager in the entertainment and music industry today, I have always tried to keep up with new industry trends and business models. I have conducted a website review on Fern Music, a company that published and distribute music through digital media for independent artists. Fern Music is an Internet label company with a series of partner distribution companies that covers music from Classic to mainstream music.

Their policy is that if you music has the potential and quality to be compared with the norm, as long as the artist stays busy and performing, they will work with you. Fern Music believed that most of the time that a song might not have a right situation with the updated music of today, but will captured and archived at the right moment for release. However, Fern Music distributes music to the major distributors such as Sony/BMG, Universal and Warner Music. Unless distributors are major, they are not going to distribute any music.

“And that’s no problem so long as an artist is at his or her best performance and busy, we either license the product or make distribution deals for respective products/ Artists / Masters. We have decided to do it this way, and it functions quite well and cheaper for all.”

Fern Music also makes sure that your music is published and ready to publicize to the public via media. They have hundreds of titles and songs in every category and genres ready for anyone might have an interest. Fern Music also handles your Mechanical copyright. Furthermore, they also take care of your performance revenue registration with all collecting agencies and societies, such as GVL, ASCAP, GEMA and PRSSMCPS.

In addition, Fern Music believed that one is at an advantage if you have your song published with a publishing company because they are in the right position to deal your song to other media outlet or companies. They can deal your songs to media companies like Movies, TV and etc.

In conclusion, I believed that Fern Music is a great publishing and distribution company that I would get my music published with as an artist manager and I would recommend their company to potential clients. I believed in their policy and how they conduct and operate their company.

References:

http://www.fern-music.com/index.php/de/200907027/Pages/distribution.html

Entertainment Attorney, Allen Jacobi: An Industry Expert

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 01:03:00 +0000

I have been encouraged to focus on and relevant issues to my business plan and should reach out to industry experts in Advanced Entertainment Law. Considering all liability issues in entertainment law today that may impact my chosen field of career, I have conducted a phone interview with Mr. Allen L. Jacobi, a successful entertainment industry attorney and President of Pyramid Records. Mr. Jacobi and I were introduced two years ago through James Jackson, CEO and Founder of Slick Salt Entertainment in Miami, Florida during an interview as an intern.

During the phone interview, I posed several questions to him regarding his company and expertise in the entertainment industry. I used question/ answer format to conduct the interview with Mr. Jacobi.

How did you get started as a lawyer in the entertainment industry?

I got started early in my career when I opened my own practice “The Law Office of Allen Jacobi. My practice offer services that include film work representing independent producers and licensing of music for use in film. I represented the elements of what was known back then as the sound of Miami. I have been awarded gold and platinum records from such artists like 2 Live Crew, Inner Circle, Gloria Estefan, Marilyn Manson, The Miami Sound Machine and The Eric Clapton. I’m best remembered for my defense for the obscenity charges against 2 Live Crew in the late 80s. The case went worldwide and Miami’s cultural diversity also gave me the opportunity to work with such Jamaican artists, like the Bob Marley Foundation, Jimmy Cliff, Third World, Dennis Brown, Zap Pow and Yellowman.

What role do you play in the entertainment industry today?

Well, I’m the President of Pyramid Records and I’m a film and television industry attorney. I work with major studios and independent filmmakers. I represent newscasters, television programs and superstar actors in the entertainment industry today. I have spoken at different events as an expert in the entertainment industry: such as The Winter Music Conference, The Washington DC Music Forum, East Coast Music Forum, ASCAP Seminars, and other symposiums and music conferences. Also, I had several television appearances on The Geraldo Rivera Show, The Phil Donahue Show, VH-1, MTV, CNN, Good Morning America and been on national media from various news items. Throughout my careers, I have been quoted in newspapers and publications, such as The Miami Herald, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The London Times, Billboard Magazine and Rolling Stone Magazine. Therefore, my role in the entertainment industry varies.

What legal issues should I be aware of?

You should be aware of trademark and copyright ownership. The business comes down to one task. Basically, it comes down to management of assets. Sound recording masters are key and the ownership of those assets will be challenged in the near future.

“Beginning in 2013, the Copyright Act will allow authors to regain ownership of copyrights transferred to others 35 years after those transfers took place. This means that regardless of what agreement a recording artist originally struck with his record label, after 35 years he could potentially regain ownership of his sound recordings – creating a windfall for artists and depriving record labels of the important revenue that catalogue recordings generate,” said Allen Jacobi.

References:

www.pyramidrecords.net

www.allenjacobilaw.com

Sabian "Bear" Ingram-CEO/Founder-Zero Tolerance Security

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 03:33:00 +0000

Sabian “Bear” Ingram

I’ve been encouraged to consider strengthening my network of contacts by reaching out to industry leaders in product or artist management relative to my field of interest. Considering all aspects of products or artist management issues that may impact my chosen field. I’ve also conducted a phone interview with Mr. Sabian “Bear” Ingram, CEO and Founder of Zero Tolerance Security. Bear and I was introduced through Bobby Wilson, a mutual friend who he played football with at Morris Brown College. However, Bobby had transferred to Tuskegee Institute where we both met during summer camp.

I posed several questions to him regarding his company and how he got started in the entertainment industry. I used a question/ answer format to conduct the interview with Bear.

How did you get started in protective services?

I was born in Phoenix City, Alabama and attended Morris Brown College in Atlanta where I played left tackle. However, my senior, I torn my ACL and that’s when I began during event staffing for different venues throughout Atlanta. I began providing protective services after I’ve had several altercations with the same guy and was given a job as personal bodyguard because of how I handle the situation each time. I also hold numerous accounts for various venues, banks and celebrities in Atlanta, Georgia.

How many guards are currently working for you?

Now, I have 26 guards working for me total. I currently provide security services for Gucci Mane and Wacka Flocka. I have 6 guards that provide protective services for celebrities and 20 guards in event staffing. My company grossed $130,000 a year after paying out all employees.

Who were and are some of your clients today?

Some my past clients are Lil John, Young Jeezy, T.I, Gucci Mane, Black Shield Entertainment, and R Kelley. Furthermore, my current clients are Gucci Mane, Waka Flocka, Kamall, high profile real estate agents, Marcus McNeil, Leornard Pope, Antonio Gate, La Dainian Tomlinson, Quinton Portis, and Charles Grant and etc. However, there name of high profile celebs that I cannot disclose.

What role do you play in your business negotiations?

I am sole owner of my company and therefore, I handle all contracts and negotiations. Basically, everything that comes to the company has to come to me first because the company is presenting me or I’m representing the company. However, I have played different roles in the entertainment and music industry due to the fact that I work with celebrities. At times, I have played the management and promoter role when needed because I played many rolls within my everyday job and plus the closet to my clients.

In Conclusion, anyone interested in seeking security services should call Zero Tolerance Security in Atlanta, Georgia. I have witnessed them at work and I must say that they’re the best. There couldn’t be any better recommendations other than Bear or his company. For more information, please referenced the link below:

Reference:

https://www.facebook.com/MrFN57?ref=ts

Website Review-James "Jay" Jackson-CEO/Slick Salt Ent.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 03:57:00 +0000

I’ve been encouraged to consider strengthening my network of contacts by reaching out to industry leaders in product or artist management relative to my field of interest. Considering all aspects of products or artist management issues that may impact my chosen field, I conducted a website review and background of Mr. James “Jay” Jackson, CEO of Slick Salt Entertainment in Miami, Florida. James Jackson, a former graduate of Tuskegee Institute and current colleague, prior to the website review, I posed several questions regarding how he deals and handles products or management issues within the entertainment industry which I will post following the website review. I used a question/ answer format to conduct the interview with Mr. Jackson.

How did you get started in the business industry?

“I entered the music industry as a club promoter in 1998. I began my career promoting nationwide for popular artists such as Trick Daddy, Uncle Luke, and Lil’ Jon. In addition, I played a major role in the club scene, giving a systematic effort to increase the importance and reputation of clubs by my favorable publicity.”

Without any thought, James took on a business venture to invest in his own Company. He started an independent record label, called Slick Salt Entertainment in 2000. In the same year, James signed his first rap artist, Lil’ E, who immediately brought a regional hit titled, “The Realest.” Surprisingly, James secured a national distribution deal through Warner/Electra/Atlantic in a little of three months. However, the company received an immediate response of none stop attention from fans, which inspired him to give them more. Furthermore, after receiving so much attention and creating a buzz in a short time, James began searching for new talents that he could manage and develop into national prodigies. In addition, he ulitamtely signed artists, such as Brisco, D.Banks, Nove and Shonie to his resume and roster. Managing and promoting these artists became his occupation and passion, he gained the respect and recognition as one of the most sought after A&R’s in Miami.

In conclusion, I would recommend new talents to Slick Salt Entertainment for management and development. The company has established itself in 2000 and been said to be a company to pay lots of attention to in near future. For further info, please go to the links below.

References:

http://www.myspace.com/slicksaltent

http://www.thisis50.com/profile/SlickSaltEnt

Entertainment Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 23 May 2011 03:14:00 +0000

J ELLIS A&R/ Rap-A-Lot Records

In today’s entertainment business industry, there are many business deals and negotiations that take place. Most of the time, these negotiations turned out to be more negative, than positive. However, a business professional has several tactics that separates them from becoming bad business negotiators. I conducted a phone interview with Mr. J Ellis, A&R of Rap-A-Lot Records in Houston, Texas. J Ellis, a former classmate at Tuskegee Institute and current colleague. I posed several questions to him regarding how he deals and handles negotiations within the entertainment industry. I used a question/ answer format to conduct the interview with Mr. Ellis.

How did you get started in this industry?

"I'm from Houston Texas and I started off as a rapper for 10 years before I got to my current position as an A&R for Rap-A-Lot Records. I went to school at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama and I’m getting a degree in business has allowed me to see that the business side was a little more important than the artistry. When I came back to Houston I hooked up with Anzel Jennings, the Director of A&R at Rap-A-Lot who suggested that I would do better on the business side than the music side. Therefore, I took his advice and I've been doing this A&R thing for about 3 years now.”

During negotiation, I separate the problem from people that were involved within the negotiation. In other words, I viewed the problems as they arrived and as their own entity, and not as a problem that comes from a particular person: whether, is a friend or co-worker in the decision making process. I saw the problem at hand and I made decisions based on the significance of the problem.

What role do you play in your business negotiations?

Although, I’m an executive of Rap-A-Lot Records as well as co-manager of Team Double Dose, I represent producers and my role in negotiation is usually as a mediator.

How would you use what is a BATNA in negotiation?

I would use BATNA by reviewing all alternatives with my clients and making decisions based on their best interests, as well as my company’s interests. Having the best available options and alternatives during a negotiation encourages you with the most confidence in order to reach a mutual agreement that will allow both my company and clients to walk away with the best outcome.

References:

http://www.negotiations.com/articles/best-alternative/

http://pmpworldwide.com/articles.cfm?contentID=257F8744-9313-E4BF-C4A1171C4B9F035B

http://howsmyrolling.net/hmr/2010/09/07/pmp-texas-takeover-j-ellis-arrap-a-lot-records/

http://www.pmpworldwide.com/articles.cfm?contentID=C4380780-F3FB-C62C-C12D311881879ED8

B Major Music presents The Core DJ's Retreat XIV: MIA3 (Miami, FL): May 6-9, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 07:29:00 +0000

The CORE DJs Retreat 14

“The purpose of the core is to empower and educate the core of the music industry, the DJs. Today, some of the most well known DJs are members of The Core including, Big Tigger - Live in the Den Syndicated Radio Show/BET, DJ Irie – Miami Heat DJ/WEDR 99 Jamz, Sir Charles Dixon – Music Choice, Clinton Sparks – WBOT/Boston, MA - WERG/Baltimore, MD - WZMX/Hartford, CT/Sirius XM Shade 45/Smash Squad, DJ S&S – Sirius XM Shade 45, The World Famous Kid Capri, Mr. Collipark, & DJ Q45 – BET to name a few.”

I have been attending the Core DJ’s Retreat since 2010 and the hands on experienced and connections that I’ve made there are priceless. I’ve been following the Core DJ’s Retreat to Atlanta, Orlando and Miami so far. This is my second year attending the retreat and I cannot wait for it to kickoff. I would recommend anyone involved in the entertainment or music industry to attend this event because of the education and connections that you will gain from many expert leaders in the game today. The retreat is catered to provide knowledge and resources to artist, labels, producers, DJs and so on, while introducing their music to 900+ DJ’s worldwide.

“The Core DJs have successfully presented past retreats in Chicago, Miami, St. Louis, Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, New Orleans and Las Vegas; and will continue to do so, making their mark in every city that is part of the movement within the music industry. The retreat unites all industry professionals for a weekend of networking, festivities, and honoring some of the past, present, and future innovators of the music industry. While in attendance at the retreat you will be able to participate in various listening sessions, artists meet & greets, and several artists/label showcases which have seen participation from Atlantic Records, Bad Boy Entertainment, Interscope, Warner Brothers, Def Jam, Universal Records, Virgin, Sony BMG, Columbia, Capitol Records, Rap-A-Lot Records, Jive, CTE, Polo Grounds and a host of others.”

Core DJ’s Retreat XIV B Major Music Miami Marriott May 6-9, 2011.

References:

http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/1032918/FL/MIAMI/The-CORE-DJs-Retreat-14/Marriott-Hotel-Biscayne-Bay

http://thecoreretreat14.eventbrite.com/

Event Planning: Planning The Perfect Event

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 03:35:00 +0000

In addition, event marketing is the use of social medial in order to increase the visibility of a business. However, social media marketing will help you get the attention of a broader audience. It is being referred to as the word-of-mouth for the digital age. The most popular sites are Facebook, Youtube, Myspace and Twitter. Social medial marketing allows you to generate a stronger and powerful media buzz. An event planner can also use social media in a way of connecting with their targeted audience and get followers to follow them. It also allows them to brand and promote their own businesses as well.

References:

http://www.businesswire.com/news/google/20081215005420/en

http://search.constantcontact.com/event-marketing/promote-events/index.jsp

http://search.constantcontact.com/event-marketing/types-of-events/index.jsp

Was it a good decision for Live Nation to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:08:00 +0000

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

“The firm owns or operates some 150 venues in North America and Europe. Annually, more than 57 million people attend some 22,000 Live Nation events. Live Nation also owns House of Blues venues through HOB Entertainment. Through a deal with pop star Madonna, Live Nation owns a stake in the Material Girl's music, including albums, tours, and merchandise. It has similar deals with other artists, and has expanded into ticketing services. Once a part of radio giant Clear Channel, in 2005 Live Nation was spun off. The company in 2009 announced plans to acquire Ticketmaster, creating a powerful live-music conglomerate.”

Was it a good decision for Live Nation to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars?

I strongly believe that Live Nation did make a great business decision to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars because they have already figured out the Return On Investment (ROI) is going to be in the future. I have reasons to believe that Live Nation signed those megastars probably based on their earning potential and their established fan based. These megastars have been around for decades. For example, Madonna has been in the entertainment industry for over 2 or 3 decades now and Jay-z, over a decade.

Some of other factors to consider regarding the recording industry that could influence the success or failure of these types of deals are to consider if these artists are businessmen or woman, the quality of music they have been producing and their overall image. Are they marketable and to what extent? If those factors are lacking from these megastars, then ticket sales can decreased tremendously.

I don’t think Live Nation will be earning a profit anytime soon, considering that the economy is in a state of financial emergency (recession) and this may cost ticket sales to also decline.

However, a break-even analysis can help Live Nation executives develop artist packages and pricing by figuring out the break-even analysis formula which is Breakeven Point = Fixed Costs/(Unit Selling Price - Variable Costs).

The basic steps that Live Nation must take to determine if they will able to make a profit is to offer different kind of packages, such as merchandise, promotion and product deal within the contract or clause.

In conclusion, I would say that Live Nation Entertainment would be a great investment as far as long-term and not short-term goal. Therefore, I strongly believe that Live Nation did make a great business decision to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars because they have already figured out what the Return On Investment (ROI) is going to be in the future.

References:

http://entrepreneurs.about.com/od/businessplan/a/breakeven.htm

http://www.quantcast.com/livenation.com

http://www.reuters.com/search?blob=Live+Nation

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/is?s=LYV+Income+Statement&annual

Billboard Pro: Who Will Adopt It?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 16:44:00 +0000

Billboard is happy to have launched a great new career building service tool for developing artists, called “Billboard Pro.” This is subscription-based service and is designed for independent and developing artist. This service is also offered to promoters, managers, independent and major labels and as well as other business entrepreneurs.

The launch of Pro came after January debut Billboard Uncharted. Billboard Uncharted is a weekly ranking of independent artists who haven’t had any presence on a major Billboard chart. Basically, Uncharted ranks artists by a formula called Heat Score. A Heat Score formula includes page views and fans, as well as streaming plays according to MySpace Music and other sources tracked by aggregators Next Big Sound, including among those sources, such as Last.fm, Twitter.com, Facebook.com, YouTube.com and etc.

“Billboard Pro (http://pro.billboard.com), offers personalized analytics that track online and social network activity, airplay, sales and other audience metrics that indicate success in today's music industry. Billboard Pro provides access to partnerships with industry leaders such as managers, attorneys, promoters, festivals, marketers and labels who can help artists achieve their music career goals.”

Subscription is only $99.00 a year for full access of Billboard Pro. Not sure if Billboard Pro is the right tool for your career? However, there is a four-week trial period for new members before their credit card is charged and they can cancel subscription without a charge at anytime doing their Free Trial period. Members will be charged at the end of their Free Trial period and auto renewed every year after, unless they have cancelled their subscription. All members must have a MySpace Music page in order for Billboard Pro to start generating metrics on an artist’s personal dashboard.

In conclusion, I’m very excited to know if other social networking sites, such as (MySpace, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin and among others) will start charging an annual subscription fee for using their sites, since Billboard.com is doing so. What will be the outcome? Nevertheless, I believed that all other companies will provide the same kind of resources and services to their members in the future that Billboard Pro provides. Although, each company’s market audiences differ, these company will provide the same functions and resources as technology continue to make a difference in today’s era. These marketing companies focus on connecting people together and networking. Therefore, their intentions are similar, but may target different audiences depending on the company’s mission statement.

Billboard Pro Product Tour:

References:

http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/indies/billboard-pro-launches-a-career-building-1005097842.story

http://pro.billboard.com/

http://pro.billboard.com/product-tour

Was it a good decision for Live Nation to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 16:44:00 +0000

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

Was it a good decision for Live Nation to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars?

I don’t think Live Nation will be earning a profit anytime soon, considering that the economy is in a state of financial emergency (recession) and this may cost ticket sales to also decline.

In conclusion, I would say that Live Nation Entertainment would be a great investment as far as long-term and not short-term goal. Therefore,

I strongly believe that Live Nation did make a great business decision to sign Madonna, Jay-Z and other megastars because they have already figured out what the Return On Investment (ROI) is going to be in the future.

References:

http://entrepreneurs.about.com/od/businessplan/a/breakeven.htm

http://www.quantcast.com/livenation.com

http://www.reuters.com/search?blob=Live+Nation

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/is?s=LYV+Income+Statement&annual

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 02:39:00 +0000

Business Storytelling

“Storytelling has been around for thousands of years, and it's arguably your most powerful (and least used) tool for sharing information, building community, capturing the imagination, and exerting influence. By telling the right kinds of stories, we can bring about profound change, says Annette Simmons, author of The Story Factor: Secrets of Influence from the Art of Storytelling”.

The significant event discussed is the use of web video as a tool for sharing innovation and ideas. The speaker built trust and rapport by using relevant examples of web video innovations that include dance and other business that included entertainment, such as dances and shared knowledge through his speech. Ted.com discusses web video use as the proverbial “light show your stuff to the world” to reach the masses.

Furthermore, Ted.com references web video phenomenon as means of accelerating innovation in order to reach a broad audience because it can be easily shared. It is as simple as a point and click. It is because web video is applicable to all industries. This advanced technology allows the rest of the world to see innovation(s).

References

Sweeney, T., & Hochgraf, L. (2000). GETTING IT DONE. Credit Union Management, 23(5), 6.

Terez, T. (2002). The Business of Storytelling. Workforce, 81(5), 22.
Wikipedia.com

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:52:00 +0000

Leadership Traits: My Strengths And Weaknesses

According to the New York Times best-selling author, John C. Maxwell, discusses ten traits of leadership in his book, titled “Developing the Leader Within You.” By reading this book, I’ve discovered that I have and will discuss the three strengths and weaknesses of my personal leadership traits. The three strengths of my personal leadership traits are attitude, influence and self-discipline. However, vision, staff-development and problem solving are the three weaknesses of my personal leadership traits.

The first strength of my personal leadership trait is attitude. I’ve developed this trait through my elementary school teacher in six grade and I have never stop working on it. Mr. Bender realized that we both hat trait. I still remember till this day when he cited to me that positive attitude would take me along away. I was able to attained two bachelor degrees from Tuskegee University regardless of the adversity. According to Maxwell, he discusses that our attitude are our most important asset.

The second strength of my personal leadership trait is influence. I have always believed that I was born to be a leader. Because of this trait, I have the skills and ability to have my family, friends, co-workers and classmates to follow my vision and me. Maxwell stated that everyone influences someone and we never know who or how much we influence. I’ve found that to be very true because a many people have said to me that I’ve influenced them in some form or another. One Tuskegee student said I influenced him to lose 150lbs because both of us attended the same gym on campus and he saw how dedicated to working out five times a week.

The third strength of personal leadership trait is self-discipline. I’ve learned and developed this trait in high school and college. I had enough self-discipline to have maintained a 3.0 grade point average and worked a full-time job in high school while playing football. Maxwell defined that discipline in the beginning of life as the choice of achieving what you really want by doing things you really want to do. I am the only sibling that in my family that have attended college, participated in extra curriculum activities and graduated from college.

Vision is one of the weaknesses of personal leadership trait hat I strongly believe needs improvement. Even though, I have a clear vision of what I really want to accomplish in life, both personally and professionally. I do envision one day to run a successful entertainment or management company someday. In this chapter, Maxwell said that vision is the key that keeps everyone focused. I’ve also found that to be accurate because due to that fact that I owned two small businesses, that my vision does keeps me motivated and focused.

The other weakness of my personal leadership trait that I feel needs improvement is staff development. The staff development trait is knowing how to create a winning team and selecting the people I need to accomplish my objectives. In this chapter, Maxwell emphasizes that the growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership. From experiences, I believe that it does take time developing and picking personnel and planning does, determines the future. It is also important that I work in making my team members more successful.

The final weakness of my personal trait that I fell needs improvement is problem solving. I’ve discovered that I need to focus more on approaching problems as opportunities, solve problems, and removed obstacles that prevent me from achieving my goals. Maxwell explains, that problem solving is the quickest way to gain leadership. This chapter dealt with the reason that causes many people to fail to reach their performance potential. The reasons are because problems continually occur at work, at home and life in general.

In conclusion, I believe that all of my strengths and weaknesses of my personal traits can be improved. I also believe that knowing your strengths and weaknesses of my personal leadership trait will make me more focused and motivated. In addition, I will focus on making those followers who are not just not following me more successful and a leader.