The Music Diary

Indie Spotlight: JAC BrainNchild

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 12:22:00 +0000

Themusicdiary.com supports indie artist and each week I select new up and coming artist to highlight. Each artist is asked to provide 140 characters describing their music, along with links so you can listen, follow, and become a fan. Feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think.

JAC BraiNchild

Intellectually stimulating, conscious, experimental hip hop, that takes you back to its origins. JAC's music is a triumph for hip hop lovers.

Click here to listen to more of JAC BraiNchild's music now.

http://jacbrainchild.tumblr.com/
http://instagram.com/jac_the_universe

If you know any artist who would like to be included in the Indie Artist Spotlight feel free to send the information through the contact page. All genres welcome.

Support Cindy Rainne and the "Unmasked" EP

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 03:18:00 +0000

Cindy Rainne is a talented singer/ songwriter. We actually went to high school together and I have always been mesmerized by her talents. This year she plans to release her EP "Unmasked". The EP is a collection of 6 songs she has written over the past few years about the process of removing layers of protection to let the treasure within shine through. It chronicles the triumphs and challenges of her journey.

Like many of us music has been her lifeline and she wants to share this gift with others. Help fund Cindy Rainne's EP now on Kickstarter, to donate visit: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/unmasked/the-unmasked-ep-project

Music Blogger 2014 Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 20:00:00 +0000

by Sam Blake

The 2014 Music Blogger event took place on 12/13/14, and the day’s proceedings came together as smoothly as the numbers in the date. Ms. Victoria “Vic-E” Coker, creator of Music Blogger and proprietress of themusicdiary.com, was host for the day. Before the panel kicked off, she welcomed attendees to the Hamilton Fish Park Public Library down on East Houston with a brunch-tastic array of pastries and beverages. Once we all trickled in and had some time to snack and get acquainted with one another, Vic-E took to the stage with her two panelists: Benji Rogers, Founder and President of PledgeMusic; and Sherwin W. Raven, Director of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at UBuzzin. Benji and Sherwin provided their insights in response to Vic-E’s thoughtful questions, which focused on what artists can do to advance their creative careers in today’s ever-evolving business and technological landscape. On the whole the panel had a friendly, conversational vibe, and offered attendees plenty of helpful information. Here are three pieces of advice I found most valuable from my seat in the audience:

1. Own Your Data: What if, Benji Rogers asked, for whatever reason, Facebook decided to shut down your artist or company page? Among other things, you’d lose your ability to connect with and contact your fans. That is, unless, you had made sure to own your data. So, Benji advised, keep a contacts list separate from your social media platforms. And be proactive about making that list grow. At every performance, don’t be bashful – pass around a clipboard and ask people to write down their contact info. Afterward, follow up with them. Thank them for coming. Showing your appreciation will make them more likely to spread the word about you; in essence, you’ll be creating your own free, makeshift marketing team, and you’ll be earning all the information you need to keep it engaged, supportive, and thriving. You might even earn yourself a “super fan” or two, who, according to Benji, account for 34% of all music spending throughout the industry. Which brings us to point #2…

2. Provide Your Fans an Experience: The music you create and the show you put on are integral to building a fan base. But offering your fans a unique way to connect with you can give you an extra leg up and propel your career forward in a big way. Try sharing your creative process with your fans. Give them access to how your music is made; even better, let them become a part of it. Show your most devoted fans exclusive videos of you developing a new song in your apartment, for instance. Give standout supporters the guitar pick you used to record your album. Bottom line: make interactions with your fans more than just self-promotion. Instead, give them a special, one-of-a-kind experience that only you can provide.

3. Use Your Resources: Sherwin highlighted how important a top-notch digital presence is, especially on YouTube. There are tons of tools out there to effectively and affordably promote your creative work; it's up to you to make sure you use them. Remember, though, that it's not all about promotion; these tools also offer the invaluable opportunity to connect with your community. And in the digital realm, quality trumps quantity. In today’s climate, artists must be diligent in order to take advantage of the value these resources offer.

All of these pieces of advice are underpinned by one main point: make an effort – at your shows, on your social platforms, and in the way you keep your fans engaged. Be strategic. Be thoughtful. And work hard. That’s what it takes.

The panel concluded with a brief audience Q&A, after which attendees had the chance to network with one another. Lots of numbers, business cards, and reflections were exchanged. All in all, the Music Blogger 2014 event offered plenty of food for thought, and more than enough food for eating. In my book, that’s a success.

Sam Blake is co-founder and CEO of Mochi House, a music production and career development collective in New York City. Interested in developing your creative vision and advancing your artistic career? Check out www.Mochi.House, or contact him at Sam@Mochi.House.

Music Blogger 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Come out this Saturday, December 13, 2014 to Music Blogger 2014. Panelist Benji Rogers, Founder & President of PledgeMusic, and Sherwin W. Raven, Director of Marketing & Strategic Partnerships of Ubuzzin will discuss ways individuals can monetize music.

Space is limited so RSVP now: http://bit.ly/1Aek0Qk

Indie Artist Spotlight - She's Ryan

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 23:14:00 +0000

Raw, distinctly polished voice, married to bold, provocative lyrics set in the most sexy, fresh look,*SIR is a force to be reckoned with.

Click here to here to listen to She's Ryan music

http://instagram.com/shesryan
https://twitter.com/shesryan

If you know any artist who would like to be included in the weekly Indie Artist Spotlight feel free to send the information through the contact page. All genres welcome.

Indie Artist Spotlight - !R!CHelD!os

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 23:27:00 +0000

I rap. You listen. If words speak for themselves then let my lyrics be my bio. Soul music for real people.

Click here to here to listen to !R!CHelD!os' music

https://soundcloud.com/music187
https://twitter.com/RICHelDIOS

If you know any artist who would like to be included in the weekly Indie Artist Spotlight feel free to send the information through the contact page. All genres welcome.

Indie Artist Spotlight - Big Maal

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 16:15:00 +0000

Big Maal's music is made for the people. Authentic lyrics from the soul telling it how it is and not how the radio wants you to hear it.

Click here to listen to Big Maal's music

http://facebook.com/bigmaal520
http://twitter.com/bigmaal520
http://reverbnation.com/bigmaal520
http://soundcloud.com/bigmaal520
http://youtube.com/bigmaal520
http://facebook.com/bigmaal52O

If you know any artist who would like to be included in the weekly Indie Artist Spotlight feel free to send the information through the contact page. All genres welcome.

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 01:58:00 +0000

Music is what I breath, what I love to do. It keeps me alive.

-Miley Cyrus

Budweiser Made in America 2014 Line-Up

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Fri, 23 May 2014 23:34:00 +0000

This year, Budweiser's Made in America is not only in Philly but will be held in LA. What does that mean for fans? It means a double dose of music, dancing and fun. The concerts will both be held Saturday, August 30 - Sunday, August 31. The line-up like every year is amazing; here are the acts that are scheduled so far:

LA
Kanye West
Tiesto
The National
J. Cole
Girl Talk
Spoon
R3HAB
Garth Emery
De La Soul
Kongos
3LAU
The Neighborhood
Penguin Prison
Destructo
Bleachers
Young and Sick
Vacationer
Cut Snake

Philly
Kings of Leon
Steve Aoki
Pharrell Williams
Chromeo
City and Colour
Awolnation
Bauuer
Tommy Trash
Mayer Hawthorne
Danny Brown
YG
Holy Ghost
DJ Cassidy
Cherub
Will Sparks
Kaneholler

Get tickets for the festival at: http://www.ticketmaster.com/Budweiser-Made-in-America-Festival-tickets/artist/1736464

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 19 May 2014 21:32:00 +0000

Music is a safe kind of high.

- Jimi Hendrix

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 12 May 2014 20:35:00 +0000

A painter paints his pictures on canvas. But musicians paint their pictures on silence. We provide the music, and you provide the silence.

- Leopold Stokowski

Sound Interviews: Chill, Trumental Co-Founder / Music Producer

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 08 May 2014 18:20:00 +0000

Trumental.com Co-Founder and Music Producer, Chill shares the concept behind the music site and what lead him to creating beats.

What inspired you and the team at TruMental.com to create the website?
Our widely shared youthful aspirations to pursue artistic expression led my partners and me through an array of experiences. Throughout this time, we gradually became enlightened to the colossal barriers to entry into such an oversaturated industry as entertainment. As we grew older, struggled to become wiser and more successful, we desired to use what we've learned to ease the path for others. Many know they have what it takes but lack resources, while others desire to explore their artistic possibilities without having to commit to significant investment. We knew that we could help in some meaningful way and out of that came TruMental.com.

How did you start your career in music?
Since high school, I aspired to be a widely respected lyricist and did actually make significant headway. I started making mixtapes and handing them out, performing everywhere and anywhere, networking, and so on, eventually earning spots opening for stars, headlining on regional stages, and boasting significant album sales. It was tough vying for the attention of the listeners. It was just as tough finding solid, affordable, original instrumentals that would truly impact the crowd -- so I started making my own. Since there were way less producers around than lyricists and vocalists, I wound up banging out beats for everyone else too. In the process, I found that the role of producer and supporting other artists was actually more fulfilling and complementary to my personality.

What tips would you provide for aspiring artist/producers?
Create for yourself first. Do it for your love of music as an art form. Fuel your passion with knowledge. Take the time to nurture and develop your talent. Practice often and never stop growing. Know your genre and your audience. Make the music you want to make and always have fun doing it. Most importantly, always have a backup plan.

What is your ultimate career goal or next step?
TruMental.com is currently undergoing redevelopment to bring an all new interface and expanded tools and resources. We’ll soon be bringing in multiple producers and bloggers to help with our growth into the mainstream as a household name. We’re working to reach a wider audience and collaborate with more independent vocalists.

As a producer, I plan to continue building relationships within the industry and to expand my capabilities in motivating, coaching, and developing grassroots artists. In the near future, I plan to venture into songwriting for established artists. I also have these Hollywood dreams of scoring a few films or syncing up some television shows or even video games. Really, who knows what the future holds.

What has been your biggest obstacle in the music business?
It has been difficult landing my own Sprite commercial. Just kidding.

Honestly, my biggest obstacle has been myself. Feeling like I’m good enough is probably the most difficult aspect to reconcile. You always find yourself comparing your capabilities and outcomes to those who came before you or have seemed to achieve far more. Most of what you see from the top is romanticized versions of what really is, but even knowing that doesn't stop you from chasing that dragon. Anything is attainable given enough time. Time is your most important ally, but life constantly rips it from your grasp. When I clock into the lab, the creative process immediately pulls me in emotionally; I’m always pushing for my vision of perfection, but time constraints force our art to be imperfect. Igniting a smile from each artist and their listeners is a mountainous challenge I face with each record, but I love every second of it. Music is my life, and I’m honored to share it.

The Best Sites to Build Your EPK (Electronic Press Kit)

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 05 May 2014 19:00:00 +0000

The days of printed press kits seem to be miles away (well not in my eyes but that's another article) today music artist create virtual press kits/ EPK (electronic press kits) in order to woo publications, a&r, & labels. Here are a 5 sites that can serve as a musicians or music artist digital press kit:

1)Reverbnation
Digital platform that allows users to promote their music and connect with fans. In the platform you can to create, manage, and track all of your digital campaigns. Reverbnation's Gig finder tool searches over 100,000 listings to find venues and clubs that maybe right for you.

Note: Several blogs ask you to send your music through Reverbnation, so its just a good rule of thumb to have it ready to fire out. They also offer other marketing tools like digital ad targeting, allowing you to target potential fans across the web.

2)Soundcloud
Upload your tracks to their platform and allow users to visually see the soundwave of your track and comment throughout the progression of the song. Users can also follow your profile, and share your work with their friends and followers.

Note: Easily allows you to create and connect with your fan base.

3)Artistecard
Provides tools to create a customized website, facebook app, and EPK. You can also build and manage a database to create marketing campaigns and promote shows and blogs across the web.

Note: Allows you to create mobile apps.

4)Sonicbids
Site allows you to create a profile in order to find gigs, connect to brands, and promote your music across social media.

Note: A variety of brands, festivals and labels utilize their system for contest.

5)Bandzoogle
Build a band website that helps sells music and merch, syncs with your social networks, and promotes you to potential fan.

Note: Must pay to create website.

Other sites:
Hostbaby

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 05 May 2014 14:05:00 +0000

If you play music with passion and love and honesty, then it will nourish your soul, heal wounds and make your life worth living. Music is it's own reward.

-STING

Four Ways to Stay Motivated in the Music Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 19:00:00 +0000

The music industry is a rough place, but with the right bit of inspiration you can make it through. Here are four ways you can stay encouraged to reach your goals:

1. Vision Board It
Create a collage of your inner most dreams, this will help you have a visual representation of what you really want. It doesn't have to be a fancy bulletin board it can be drawn images, words or even phrases that help you see your vision.

2. You Are the Company you Keep
The old saying is true -- birds of a feather do flock together. The more I meet creatives, the more I see that their success is proportionally related to the people they hangout with. Having friends who inspire you and hold you accountable is very important.

3. Attend Events
I'm an advocate for networking. It can be a great way to expand your circle or even land a deal.

4. Success Stories
All musicians have a story from Gene Simmons to Jay Z filled with high, lows, explaining what made them the success they are today. For me picking up a book or even watching a mini-documentary of an artist's life reminds me that everyone comes from somewhere and share similar struggles when they first began, but eventually all the hard work will pay off.

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 14:37:00 +0000

Everything Is Scary If You Look At It. So You Just Got To Live It. - Mary J.Blige

Indie Artist Spotlight - Graph Gonzales

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Graph Gonzales

Toronto born singer/songwriter with a hybrid sound of underground eclectic Hip Hop and Pop music.

Click here to listen to Graph Gonzales' music

twitter.com/GraphGonzales
Instagram.com/GraphyPoo
Soundcloud.com/GraphGonzales

If you know any artist who would like to be included in the weekly Indie Artist Spotlight feel free to send the information through the contact page. All genres welcome.

Interlude: New Year, Old Fears

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 16:26:00 +0000

As 2013 closed I looked back at all I had accomplished since I began themusicdiary.com. How the year had lead me to attend several music events across the country and meet some great people along the way. How I worked at a record label and had an opportunity to honestly say I helped contribute to the success of music artist. I also started a annual conference for music bloggers and started to build my own personal brand. With all this said I still wanted more and needed more. My story wasn't close to over and by mid December the record label would be on a hiatus, dissolving my only source of income. That meant I would be back on the job search. My biggest worry was what if I couldn't find a job in the entertainment field and although I planned on starting my own business I wouldn't see any revenue any time soon. You all heard of the phrase "it takes money to make money", right?

At that moment I went into panic mode, I applied for different jobs, some I loved and others I didn't love as much. I wondered what my readers would think; would they think I deserted the dream for a paycheck? I spoke to several of my friends and family about the dilemma, and I was convinced that I would do anything to live out my dreams. I started to apply for at least one job a day. Early January I began to get call backs for interviews the momentum grew and week after week I had an interview but no solid job. Then it happened, I received an email from one of the largest media companies in the world, Viacom. They asked me to come in the following week for an interview and to bring two references. I was so excited I could barely breathe. If someone had asked 19 year old Victoria which company she wanted to work for it would be Viacom and now I'd have my opportunity to prove myself. After a short paralysis I entered in the time I was available and confirmed an interview for the following Tuesday.

When it rains it pours. Early Monday morning, MLK day and the day before my big interview I received an email from a different company, an online publication. They wanted to conduct a phone interview the same day. The phone call came after I had filled out their short questionnaire which included my salary requirements. Being that it was MLK Day and early in the morning, I wasn't ready for the call but I knew it was better to speak to them sooner than later. I got on the phone and the owner started to sell me about his company. This was completely unexpected; he began to speak about what they could offer me and if I would be willing to negotiate my salary for 20,000 less then what I listed as my salary requirement. To me money isn't everything, it's more about the end goal, but I also cant work for peanuts ( I live in NY and it's expensive). I said I was willing to negotiate just to keep my options opened and scheduled an in person interview for Wednesday.

After the interview at Viacom I was almost certain I had the job. The young lady who interviewed me was pleasant and said I was the front runner. I left their 42nd street office beaming, already planning what I would wear my first day. But what about the other job you ask? Well mama ain't raise no fool. I'd still go on the interview and ace it. That Friday, the publication called to offer me the position, I ignorantly asked for some time because I was weighing my options. The following Tuesday Viacom emailed me the news that they would be going with another candidate. So I did the only "smart thing" and ran back to the online publication and accepted the position, but now they no longer wanted to hire me either.

Although this may not be the sweet melody you want to hear, it is real. I'm still searching for the right position and in the meantime I'm building my brand and making way for new opportunities. Lessons learned???? Play your hand tight don't let everyone know it all, negotiate like a boss, and know your value. Follow your heart and believe in yourself and let God do the rest.

Quote of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Lose Your Dreams and You Might Lose Your Mind. - Mick Jagger

Young Num Turns It Up

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Thu, 17 Apr 2014 16:49:00 +0000

It’s so funny, when we may be at the end of our rope we find the means to move forward. If it wasn’t for a random case of luck rapper Young Num would have put down the mic forever. Yet something told him to take a chance and play the lottery -- he did and he won. The money allowed him to start his label, A.D.T Boss Entertainment, and continue to make great music.

Recently, the South Carolina rapper released his latest mixtape “Take Over Vol.1”. Young Num’s music can be described as poetic grit. On the album you can see collabos with Bone Thugs and Harmonys, Bizzy Bone, and L.A rapper and actor, Dre the Truth. Listen to and download the full “Take Over Vol.1” mixtape here.

Follow @YoungNum87

The Art Department Music Community Mixer

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 15:35:00 +0000

The Art Department Music Community kicks off its 1st of many music events on April 17th. Join them at the Sweetwater Social for a mixer and networking event. One lucky attendee will be gifted an exclusive wooden tie, created by sponsor Woody Moth.

For more info visit: http://www.meetup.com/theartdeptent/events/175042142/

GRAMMY U: Off The Record with Danny Brown

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 13:21:00 +0000

Join GRAMMY U and moderator Rap Genius for this one of a kind opportunity to sit down with critically-acclaimed artist Danny Brown. Open exclusively to GRAMMY U members.

For more info visit: http://www.grammy365.com/events/new-york-grammy-u-record-danny-brown

CBS Puts Music Artist In the Spotlight with New Competition Show

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 19:00:00 +0000

CBS ordered a new music reality competition show currently titled The Spotlight. The new show will be executive produced by So We Think You Should Dance judge Nigel Lythgoe.

RECAP: Mind Behind the Music March Event

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 17:50:00 +0000

This week, I attended the March Mind Behind the Music 1on1 event at MOCADA in Brooklyn. The event was really cool, Anastasia, one of the founders interviewed producer Kerry Krucial Brothers. Kerry who is well known for creating music with Alicia Keys, shared his experiences in the music industry, and his most recent projects. If I had to sum up the conversation in one word it would consistency. Kerry pounded that word into the crowds head -- explaining how his focus and determination ultimately lead to his success. Let's all say it together CONSISTENCY IS THE KEY.

Three Ways to Experience SXSW in your City

noreply@blogger.com (Victoria Coker) — Sun, 09 Mar 2014 21:49:00 +0000

Not headed to Austin for SXSW? Well that doesnt mean you cant experience the festivities. From live streaming to local events here are three ways to attend SXSW from anywhere in the world.

1) Local events

Many companies are having pre and post SXSW events for different reasons. Some companies want to connect with individuals before they attend SXSW to get the buzz out about their brand. While others are reconnecting with people they met at the event. Either way it gives you a chance to be a part.

2) Live Streaming

SXSW provides an exclusive live stream on the SXSW website, but wait there's more. Just Google live stream SXSW and you will have an endless amount of streams from each SXSW category. You may even get a better view of the performances and speakers than the people who have a seat in the room.

3)Twitter

Hashtag SXSW and start to chat. Big names are dashing to twitter this year to chat live with fans from SXSW.