Evolution of a Song

RECORD LABELS WHERE'S THE BEEF?

2012-02-25T08:20:00.002-05:00

  I often speak to professional groups as well as local craft associations. I'm frequently asked, are the labels really hurting? The answer is a definite, yes! Going back to 2004 sales where approximately 36 to 40 billion globally, from 2009 to 2012 they have plummeted from 14.5 billion to 6.3 billion , and it's not going to get any better.
  Here's the good news! The money is still being spent, and your share is waiting, if your willing to do the work. The Digital age is here! The biggest reason the record labels have lost so much, simply put, is their arrogance. They got complacent, and thought the gravy train would never end. Well it did, and they're paying dearly.
  I thought it would be interesting to look at the big four. Just image based on their percentages of the market how it is affecting them. Their lying in their neatly made beds, and you no longer have to get into bed with them!
  It's your turn now! Join the digital age! Get to work! Learn your craft! Kindle your passion! See you at the top!!!!!

US music market shares, according to Nielsen SoundScan (2005)

Nielsen SoundScan reported that the big four accounted for 81.87% of the US music market in 2005:^[21]

Universal Music Group (USA based) — 31.71%
Sony Music Entertainment (USA based) — 25.61%
Independent labels — 18.13%
Warner Music Group (USA based) — 15%
EMI Group (UK based) — 9.55%

and in 2004, 82.64%:

Universal Music Group—29.59%
Sony Music Entertainment—28.46% (13.26% Sony, 15.20% BMG)
Independent labels—17.36%
Warner Music Group—14.68%
EMI Group—9.91%

World music market sales shares, according to IFPI (2005)

The global market was estimated at $30–40 billion in 2004.^[22] Total annual unit sales (CDs, music videos, MP3s) in 2004 were 3 billion.

According to an IFPI report published in August 2005,^[23] the big four accounted for 71.7% of retail music sales:

Independent labels—28.3%
Universal Music Group—25.5%
Sony Music Entertainment—21.5%
EMI Group—13.4%
Warner Music Group—11.3%

Prior to December 1998, the industry was dominated by the "Big Six": Sony Music and BMG had not yet merged, and PolyGram had not yet been absorbed into Universal Music Group. After the PolyGram-Universal merger, the 1998 market shares reflected a "Big Five", commanding 77.4% of the market, as follows, according to MEI World Report 2000:

Universal Music Group — 28.8%
Independent record label|Independent labels — 22.6%
Sony Music Entertainment — 21.1%
EMI — 14.1%
Warner Music Group — 13.4%

Note: the IFPI and Nielsen Soundscan use different methodologies, which makes their figures difficult to compare casually, and impossible to compare

I'm a star! Why should I need a blog or website?

2012-02-24T15:14:00.001-05:00

My music should be enough

I'm not going to beat this topic up! Here's the deal. Get a website, start blogging and you might succeed. Don't and you are guaranteed to fail! You can trust this approach or not. If you decide not to; let me know how that works for you. The only person you have to believe about this topic is everyone who is or has been successful in the last ten or so years. Here are some basic tips to help you get started. So roll up your sleeves and get to work!!!!!!

Search marketing is key to creating awareness for your website, business and/or product.

Two major types of search marketing exist: natural (or organic) and paid search. Natural

search refers to search engine results that are unbiased and chosen solely based on how

relevant those results are to the original query. Paid search can refer to a number of ways in

which you pay every time your site or page is included in the search engines, listed or clicked on.

Natural Search

Search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo!, send out automated “crawlers”

to scour the Internet, link by link, and gather information about the pages

and sites they visit. Next, the crawler indexes the site, recording all kinds of

information: content, images, inbound and outbound links, page title, description,

keywords, language, and more.

Crawlers are completely automated and run 24/7, reporting back to the search engine what they find online. All the collected information is written into a database. When you search, search engines are really searching their own databases, which they update continuously. Search engines will visit your site anywhere from daily to monthly, but they all check back with your site on a regular basis to see if you’ve added new pages or content. Learn more about all of the major search engines and directories at www.SearchEngineWatch.com.

Paid Search

Pay per click and paid inclusion are two different types of paid search options.

Consider the following:

■ How much is each visitor worth to you? Knowing this cost is crucial to your spending.

■ How are your ads performing? Test different copy and see which ads users click the most and which ones lead to the most sales.

■ Which search engines perform best for you? Depending on your business and audience, one engine might be better than another.

■ Which keywords are most profitable for you? The phrase “baby toys” may be too expensive and “baby development” might cost far less, leading to higher profitability.

■ Are you geo-targeting your ads? You don’t want to show up for a nationwide search of “landscaping” if you only provide that service in Houston.

Keeping track of your return on investment is vital to the success of your paid search campaign. Paid inclusion products are offered by most major search engines. Search engines are unable to crawl your entire site.

SETTING UP YOUR WEBSITE TO BE FRIENDLY TO CRAWLERS IS VITALLY IMPORTANT TO YOUR SEARCH EFFORTS.

Music -- Brown -- Rihanna -- Message ?

2012-02-24T06:49:00.006-05:00

What are we saying ?

We all remember it well. Three years ago, right before the Grammy awards, Rihanna was brutally and viciously attacked by her former boyfriend, Chris Brown. Horrifying images leaked onto the web of the bloodied and bruised pop star that sent a shock-wave through the music industry. Now, this past Monday the two released two songs featuring each others voices, and have ultimately sent a very strong message out to impressionable young fans. Which brings up a question many celebrities battle on a daily basis - does living in the spotlight mean having to make decisions based on public perception? Do stars have to be role models? Personally, I think the answer is simple: yes.
To start off I just want to say that I’m all about forgiveness. When I was a kid growing up in church some of my favorite stories were the ones where people who were terribly victimized found their abuser and forgave them. At the end of the day, no matter how awful someone has hurt you, I truly believe that until you forgive that person, you’re only doing yourself more harm. That being said, do I think it was a good idea for Rihanna to start being seen publicly with Chris Brown, to tweet him candidly, and to now release two songs with him? I think the only thing that could be more devastating would be her stepping back into a relationship with him, and I honestly don’t think that’s an unlikely scenario.
In response to criticism being thrown their way this week on Twitter, Brown tweeted, “Let them be mad!!!! We make music. Don't like it, don't listen!” He has a point. He does make music, and if his private life offends people, then they shouldn’t buy his music. But this is also coming from the man who threw a tantrum in a Walmart in 2009 (the same year he attacked Rihanna) for not carrying his newest album. Soon after he blew up in a local store he tweeted, “im tired of this s--t. major stores r blackballing my cd. not stockin the shelves and lying to costumers. what the f--- do i gotta do...WTF... yeah i said it and i aint retracting s***. im not biting my tongue about s else... the industry can kiss my a--.”
I’m sorry whaaaaat? A humble and apologetic attitude goes a long way in the public eye when you have a “slip up” like sending your girlfriend to the hospital. For me, Brown’s weak apology given after the event is completely negated with statements like this. Someone who truly understands the consequences of such actions would understand that their music career is surely going to be affected.
But in 2012, the Grammy’s extended a shockingly lenient hand to Brown, not only allowing him to perform, but awarding him his first Grammy award in the same night. It seems all is forgotten as Rihanna herself has taken the next step and recorded with Brown. The interesting part about this story is that Brown has a girlfriend currently and they are reportedly very happy together. So what does this all mean? I’ll tell you what it means.
Rihanna’s decision to publicly make amends with Brown has sent one HUGE message to fans and impressionable young girls: its acceptable to let a man hit you. She can deny it all she wants, but ultimately she is playing the role of the typical woman caught up in the cycle of an abusive relationship, constantly returning to the source of her own pain. We’ve all seen it before, whether it be first hand, or through people we know. This message she’s sending is probably not intentional, but its still there. It's still reverberating through the sound-waves as fans race to purchase these two songs. Its a faint whisper in the mind of the young girl from Barbados who idolizes Rihanna for representing her country on a worldwide scale. It's numbing the pain of the woman debating whether or not she should leave her abusive husband. It's repeating the message to the teenage boy who sees his father beat his mother that all women forgive, all women return, all behavior is acceptable in relationships. In 2009 Rhianna was the victim of a terrible attack that included Brown punching her multiple times in the face and even biting her. After being hospitalized and recovering, she was provided a unique opportunity to use her global platform to tell women that this was unacceptable, that once is enough, that physical abuse is a 100% deal-breaker. But she didn’t. She never said a bad thing about Brown, she never really made an attempt to speak to women who have been through similar trauma, and now she is happily stepping back into a friendship with the man who sent her to the hospital three years ago.
When Rihanna signed on the dotted lines to become an international pop star, she also signed up for the paparazzi to follow her every move. She signed up for critics openly bashing her live performance vocals. She signed up for fans analyzing her life under a microscope. And whether she likes it or not, she signed up to be a role model to young women. Like I said before, I’m all about forgiveness. I love that Rihanna has clearly forgiven Brown for what he did. But rekindling their relationship is far too dangerous- not only for herself, but for the countless women who will likely do the same. Being a role model doesn’t mean you have to be perfect, but it does mean you have to be responsible. Only time can reveal how this story further unfolds, but lets hope and pray that it doesn’t end up the way it did back in 2009.
-J. Burton

TO DIGITAL OR NOT?

2012-02-20T08:06:00.006-05:00

It is amazing how many people ask me, How do I sell my CD’s? Well there are as many ways to sell your product, as there is product. However, there is more to it than just uploading your product to one of the many digital stores. As an Artist, do you have a fan base? Is your product packaged professionally? Do you have the support in place, meaning people to work your product on a regular basis? Do- do - do. There are a lot of do’s and a lot of don'ts. So how do I know what they are? You have to do your due diligence. In other words, unless you have the funds to pay someone to provide the marketing services you will need, you will have to do the work yourself. You may find friends or family that believe in you and want to help you get started, or someone willing to work and get paid on the back end. That’s all good. Remember you still have to do the work.

YOU MUST JOIN THE DIGITAL AGE

The digital age is the biggest gift ever given to the unsigned Artist! We don’t need the record labels any longer. Why? I’m glad you asked! Let me give you a lesson in basic music economics. If you were signed to a record label and sold a Gold Record, that would be $500,000. How much money do you think you would get? Your return would be 1 million dollars! I’m just joking... Believe it or not, you would get approximately thirty five thousand dollars. That’s it! If you sold 7,500 at ten dollars each your ROI would be the about the same, $35,000. So imagine selling a gold record on your own through the digital stores. Not too bad a deal, you think?

Let me encourage you. Do your due diligence! Work hard! Join a professional organization! Hone your craft! And don’t lose your passion!

The Grammys Make a Statement: Authentic Talent is Still a Priority.

2012-02-17T16:47:00.005-05:00

I don’t know about you, but for me, the 2012 Grammy Awards made a huge statement concerning the music industry. The already platinum selling Nicki Minaj was trumped for Best New Artist by the very alternative Bon Iver, The Civil Wars beat out Kelly Clarkson, and Jason Aldean for Best Country Duo, and Adele dominated all the leading Pop categories even though, as she admitted - she’s not really “Pop.” What does it all mean? I think we’re seeing a shift in the priorities of the public, not just the academy. With songs like “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye becoming radio hits, and topping tigers on iTunes like LMFAO, Drake, and Madonna, one thing seems to be very clear: popular music is getting a big makeover.

Entering into the night, although critics favored Adele to walk away with the most awards, I think many were still surprised by her six-for-six sweep. She trumped Katy Perry’s “Firework” for Record of the Year, Bruno Mars’ “Grenade” for Song of the Year, and Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” for Album of the Year. Not too shabby. The soulful British singer seems to embody a very bygone era of music and performance that music fans are desperate to hear. In the midst of the bubble-gum pop that is stretched and molded by money-minded industry hot-shots, Adele represents a time when having a perfect body was not one’s ticket to selling records, when having impressive vocals was not uncommon for female performers, and when writing your own music was assumed, not exceptional. Her six awards represent a new value in the quality of music that hits our airwaves. How often have you turned on your radio to hear the same monotonous chorus being repeated over and over... and over? Relevant lyrics have been sacrificed in place of catchy music that can be easily remembered and played in clubs. That’s where the Adele factor comes in and shakes the foundations of the industry. She’s not half naked in her videos, she actually can sing, and her music is actually unique and meaningful. The reality is, it's sad that we have to make such an honor of someone because of these characteristics - all music should be backed by the same artistic fervor. But that’s what makes her so special and that’s why she made musical history on Sunday.

While Adele proved that talent still speaks louder than imagery, The Civil Wars showed that simplicity still has its place in a mainstream setting with their two awards for Best Country Duo/ Group Performance and Best Folk Album. They don’t tour with a big band or lots of instruments, just a guitar and a lovely ability to produce complicated harmonies. Their brief performance before introducing Taylor Swift was powerful and folksy as always.

One of the most surprising wins was Bon Iver for Best New Artist. Up against The Band Perry and Nicki Minaj, many were expecting money to talk and for Minaj and her many hits to steal the prize. Against all odds, the indie folk band trumped the newest pop/ hip-hop princess and claimed the coveted title that has foreshadowed so many successful careers (including that of Adele). They also won for Best Alternative Music Album.

So an indie folk group wins two Grammy's, a Country/ Folk group wins two Grammy's, and a soulful singer/ songwriter takes the cake with six Grammy's. I think the big statement here is a shift not only in the academy, but in the public. People are over the exhaustive synthetic pop that screeches over top 40’s stations. The public is itching for music, and meaningful performances by artists who truly connect with the message behind their songs. The shock that came from Arcade Fire’s Album of the Year win in 2011 humbled the likes of Eminem, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry. It's refreshing to see the underdog succeed and even more refreshing to see true creativity recognized. Overall, I think the 2012 Grammy Awards sent a message out to the music industry and the public that true, heartfelt music has not lost its place, and that talent is still a priority. This is going to be a great year!

The Battle of Blankets !!!!!!!

2012-02-09T05:34:00.002-05:00

The Battle of Blankets

One of the hardest things I have to do everyday is get out of bed. I'm sure some of you struggle with that also. I call it the battle of blankets! This business we're in can be emotionally draining. It can kick the mud out of you, if you let it. The key is, don't let it! Easier said than done. I believe the harder you work the luckier you get.

I NEVER TELL ANYONE TO GIVE UP, UNLESS THEY'RE LAZY AND HAVE NO PASSION!
Really, if you don't have those two ingredients, and talent, get a job! You may be thinking I'm sounding tough. Wait until you get into the music business, then you'll see tough! Most of the great industrialists of the world will tell you, there are 3 ingredients to success.

The number one ingredient to be successful is PASSION!
The number two ingredient to be successful is HARD WORK!
Last but not least, PERSEVERANCE!!!!!

If you mix these three ingredients in the music pot, you are almost guaranteed success. If you don't, you are certainly doomed for failure!

To quote one of my favorite industrialists and motivators, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:
"The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night."

Once again, we all need each other on this journey. We need encouragement just as much as we need a helping hand! Lift your brothers up! Help them realize their dream, and you will surely find yours along the way!!!!!!!!!!

Free Download sites getting nailed by the FBI. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!

2012-02-06T14:21:00.002-05:00

Free music download sites are getting nailed by the Government!!!! It's about time. I feel I can speak on behalf of all of those who make a living from music sales. We have been molested by all these thieves stealing our music, and for the Arts to continue to thrive we must join together and put an end to these creeps!!!!!. Would you like to know what I really think? The music industry is reeling from a severe loss in revenues over the last decade. I personally am ready to see the record labels get their just desserts. They have taken advantage of Artists and Writers long enough. The digital age is here, and it's here to stay. The world wide web is a great tool to even the playing field for Artists and Writers. The sad thing is, there's always those out there looking for a way to get over.

Did you know you can make the same amount a gold record would make being on a label, (500,000) by selling 75,000 as an independent. Surprised? Most people are. Let's say you're a new artist, and you've invested your last dime on your project, and and now you're working your butt off to make a living. Now Joe-Blow - free download comes along and gives your music away, for free. Are you OK WITH THAT? I'm not! There is lobbying in Washington going on as we speak to allow this to happen. There is also lobbying going on to prevent this unethical practice from happening. Get involved, let your congressional representatives know how you feel. In politics, always, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Squeak, squeak. squeak!!!!!!!!!! Write blogs, tweet it, Facebook it!!! All we're asking for is the right to our own personal intellectual property.

This is a short blog. I think I've made my point, so I will end with this. There are three kinds of people in this world:
1.Those who make things happen.
2. Those who watch things happen.
3. And those who wonder what happen after it happened.

Ask yourself. which one am I?

Good writing

J. Grady

ThE DREAM GRAVEYARD

2012-02-02T06:50:00.003-05:00

The Dream Graveyard

What does a graveyard look like? It's a place of worldly finality. A dark isolated spot where things are buried, covered up, smothered and fried, and more times than not forgotten. The dream graveyard is very similar. It's a place where aspirations, inspirations, hopes, visions and great ideas have been thrown away to live out life unfulfilled. Sounds gloomy, doesn't it? It does not have to be. It could be inspiring, life changing, as well as hope inducing, and very effective in bringing exciting benefits to the world.

This imaginary place we're speaking of is unbelievably packed with lost causes. The good news is, it doesn't have to be! You see, most of those holes would never be filled if we learned the basic principal of perseverance. There are as many reasons for broken dreams, as there are types of dreams. We will be speaking specifically to the music entrepreneurs who are on the verge of giving up. In no way is this going to be an exhaustive list! The intention here is to help those visionaries who are on the verge of throwing in the towel. There are literally hundreds, if not thousands of dreamers ready to give up. If you're in that group, you are not alone!!

Perseverance: Steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
First, lets talk about difficulty. My friends, don't be so simple minded as to think that for one second anything in the music business is easy! Simple: easily understood or done; presenting no difficulty. One of the biggies that stops some people in their tracks is when they enter into this business, and realize how competitive it is, they become overwhelmed with fear and give up. Fear is a big one! We all have fear, you just can't let it control you. If you do you will never succeed.

With that being said, let me give you some tools that are proven to help you overcome.
1). I cannot tell you how important it is to surround yourself with people who believe in you, and that you trust and can confide in.
2). Get rid of the naysayers!!!!! Don't listen to those losers that tell you you can't succeed! You have a dream, live it!

I could write a book about this topic, and probably will. However this is a blog. So, I will end this with a few final thoughts and quotes:
-- "Don't quit before the miracle happens".
-- "What if your ship came in the day after you quit".

There will be times when you will want to give up, and throw in the towel. But, you have to keep going if you want to succeed. "Winners never quit, and quitters never win". So hold your head up high, push into God, and win the prize!!! Lastly, you've gotta be tough!!!!!!!!!!

Dreaming Together

2012-01-30T09:56:00.003-05:00

Today I am going to write a blog that I’m sure some will think is preposterous, and will shrug it off. But before you do, please read the entire article. There are 2 ways to do the music business:
1) The slow way: It takes years and years of being alone, hard knocks, door knocks, and unreturned calls and then if you're lucky you may find success.
2) The accelerated method: You will still have to do a lot of the above. The difference is you won't be doing it alone, and it will be so much more enjoyable, plus you will reach your destination much quicker and arrive fulfilled.
I remember the beginning of my journey into music land, some 25+ years ago when my favorite song was me me me. Everything I did was for me and about me. The word narcissist comes to mind. Well, after a lot of hard knocks and head banging and broken relationships, I arrived at my destination. However, when I got there I was all alone, and an empty vessel. Believe me it’s not worth it. How can you be at the top of your industry and be miserable? Try my old method it works great!
So you're thinking, what is this new method? It’s very simple! The quickest road to success is helping someone else get there. How so you may ask? I’m glad you asked! Remember, “Dream Together”. The road to success can be very challenging and lonely. Doing it by yourself is brutal! So don’t!
Here’s the deal. Everyone has something to offer, no matter where you are in the continuum. As you begin your journey you will start meeting like minded associates. If you share freely with them, they will begin sharing freely with you. You will make friends that you can walk together with on your journey. They will meet other like minded people along the way that have different contacts, and they know things you don’t that they can share with you. It’s kind of like pouring water on a Chia plant; Instant growth! Dream Together!
Take it from an old man with over twenty five years of experience. The old method isn’t worth it. Network Network Network. Share what you know, and know what you share. Sweet dreams!!!!!!

My name is J. Grady and I approve this message.

No stake in the ground -- No steak for you!

2012-01-28T19:04:00.001-05:00

No stake = No steak! In other words, if you don't have a plan, to quote the soup Nazi: "No soup for you"! So many times I speak with upcoming Artists and all they have is a dream to offer. The problem with that is, that's usually all it winds up to be; a dream. Sad but true. Most of us creative types love the dream, we just don't seem to love to plan for the dream. You may have heard the old adage, "shoot for the moon and if you miss you will wind up among the stars". In this case, if you shoot for the moon without a plan and miss, you will wind up in the toilet.
So my point here is start with a plan and set your path. Follow your path, and if you've done due diligence with passion and persistence and the right information, you will hit your moon. Now all of us don't have the skills to set a stake, create a business plan and follow it. This is why we need to employ others to help us. I use the term employ loosely. We employ our friends, we network, and sometimes we have to pay others to help us. One good way to get info is to find a reputable professional association to join, they're not that expensive and can give you real bang for the buck in the long haul.
One of the best ways to cut your costs is to do as much of the work as you can yourself. The internet is a great tool. There is one Caveat with the internet. That is, there are many snakes out there wanting to take your money. Though you think you might be too smart for them, believe me. There are many slick CROOKS, if you will, out there that can get into your pocket before you know it. Do your due diligence, research research research. This is one reason you need to be a member of a reputable Professional association.
We at AMP really want to see everyone become successful. We encourage everyone to follow their dream. Put your stake in the ground, follow your plan and stick to it. Network Network Network, and good dreaming!!!!!!!!
This is J.Grady president and founder of AMP, and I approve this message!!!

MY CD IS DONE! NOW WHAT?

2012-01-06T09:09:00.003-05:00

You wrote the songs, got your CD wrapped up in a pretty plastic-wrapped package with your picture on it, got it on iTunes, and all the digital audio stores. Now you're sitting at home, waiting by the mail box for the checks to start rollin' in. It's been three months and you're wondering if they have the right address. You're thinking, "Am I going to have to cancel the order on my new SUV, my trip to the Caymans, my season tickets and my pedicure?" I would say if this is all you've done to get your project out, the answer is Yes: cancel everything and apply for food stamps, start looking for a job and go to work on your music career.

Misconception number one is believing your project will be successful on it's own volition. I'm not going to spend a lot of time on all the things that need to take place for your project to be successful, because that would take hours of explanation and planning, and there are too many variables for a one case fits all scenario. What I am going to try to do is give you a few suggestions to help you get started, and pull no punches while doing so.

Here are the facts. It takes money, hard work, a team, planning, passion, perseverance and a good product. If any of these are missing you are doomed to fail. You may be thinking, money, oh no!! I've spent every dime I have! You see, that's why we have a plan. The one mistake that most commonly destroys Newbies is lack of planning. Get a plan, invite your friends and find a pro to help guide you. There are many qualified industry specialists that will get you started for a reasonable fee. Caveat, do your due diligence before you work with anyone. There are many wolves in sheeps clothing that will take advantage of you.

This is my business and I love working with upcoming talent. Find some one with a passion and heart for new Artists. I would like to keep going, but this is a blog, not a book. Remember the quickest way to success is to help someone else be successful!

Is the record industry hurting? What is their attitude?

2011-12-09T10:55:00.003-05:00

With the recording industry already reeling from plummeting sales, termination rights claims could be another serious financial blow. Sales plunged from $14.6 billion to about $6.3 billion over the decade ending in 2009, in large part because of unauthorized downloading of music on the Internet. This has affected new releases especially, which has left record labels disproportionately dependent on sales of older recordings in their catalogs.

“This is a life-threatening change for them, the legal equivalent of Internet technology,” said Kenneth J. Abdo, a lawyer who leads a termination rights working group for the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and has filed claims for some of his clients, who include Kool and the Gang. As a result the four major record companies — Universal, Sony BMG, EMI and Warner — have made it clear that they will not relinquish recordings they consider their property without a fight.

“We believe the termination right doesn’t apply to most sound recordings,” said Steven Marks, general counsel for the Recording Industry Association of America, a lobbying group in Washington that represents the interests of record labels. As the record companies see it, the master recordings belong to them in perpetuity, rather than to the artists who wrote and recorded the songs, because, the labels argue, the records are “works for hire,” compilations created not by independent performers but by musicians who are, in essence, their employees. Here again, greed rules the music industry!

A songwriters need to know!!!!!

2011-12-09T10:48:00.000-05:00

COPYRIGHT ACT AND COPYRIGHT TERMINATION

Submitted by Member Services on September 29, 2011 - 1:11pm

Tags:

The Recording Academy was recently referenced in a New York Times article about the looming issues related to copyright termination. Since its testimony at a Congressional hearing in 1999, The Academy has been active in protecting music creators’ rights to regain ownership of their copyrights. Because 2011 is an important year for filing termination notices for some works, it is important that Academy members understand this critical issue.

Under the Copyright Act, authors (and their statutory heirs) may terminate certain transfers of copyrights that were effected in 1978 and after on the 35th anniversary of the transfer (although in some circumstances, different time frames may be applicable). Transfers of sound recordings and musical compositions are among the classes of copyright transfers that may be terminable. An author's right to reclaim ownership of his or her copyright(s) is optional and must be exercised in accordance with strict notice provisions and within strict time limits. If you are the author of sound recording(s) and/or musical composition(s) that were transferred to third parties, it would be advisable to contact your attorney or other advisors to learn more about this important topic.

Why do so many Artists fail on iTunes?

2011-11-28T21:47:00.004-05:00

So you got your new CD and you're ready to get it out. The first move most people make is to get their songs on iTunes. Guess what, you and everyone else who has a project is doing the same. There are over 6 million songs on iTunes. Here's some more random facts:

- 65,000+ podcasts (USA)
- 10,000+ music videos (USA)
- 350+ TV shows (USA)
- 20,000+ audiobooks (USA)
- 14 iPod games (USA)
- 500+ movies (USA

Do you get it? If you're trying to sell your song, the odds are 6 million to one. Whoa!!!! The reason most people fail is simply this. They put their songs up and wait for the checks to start coming in. What a fairy tale! Another reason people fail is, they're so emotionally attached to their music they believe the world is going to fall at their feet. The truth is, there is more junk than music on iTunes. So what do I do? I'm glad you asked!

First have a plan. No plan no money! No Money no way! So what if I have no money? Then you need to make up the difference in passion and hard work. The degree of your passion and hard work will determine how successful you will be. There are many ways to promote your product, I wish I could get to them on this blog. I just don't have enough ink!

For now use Google to research marketing techniques. Enlist those who believe in you to become part of your team and work work work! If you have no funds that's about it. Try to raise funds. If you already have funding good for you. Most don't.

Here's a few suggestions.

1. Check out the free sites

2. Work on a fan base

3. Play your music for everyone you can

4. network network network

Remember you are your number one fan and promoter

Get to work!!!!

CALLING ALL DIVA'S

NOT REALLY

DIVA'S ARE ABOUT TO BE AS EXTINCT

AS THE DODO BIRD!!!!!!

There are snakes in the grass!! Writer producer alert!!!!!!!!

2011-10-27T14:46:00.000-04:00

It has come to our attention that satellite broadcaster Sirius/XM is seeking to bypass the standard system of paying royalties. If they are allowed to do so, it will likely result in substantially reduced payments to artists and producers, a lowering of the value of performance royalties, and unnecessary conflict between artists and their labels.

Whats the issue:

Currently, satellite radio pays sound recording performance royalties to the nonprofit collective SoundExchange, which in turn pays 50% to the artists on the recording and 50% to the copyright owner (usually a record label). SoundExchange pays the artists the full 50%, even if the artist has unrecouped royalty balances, and also pays producers their share as directed by the artist. The system has resulted in an important new income stream for creators.

Sirius is now seeking to use the option of direct licensing with certain independent labels instead of using the system created by Congress that ensures fair payment to all parties. Artists should be concerned about direct licensing; 100% of the royalties would be paid to the record label which in turn may pay artists at a lower rate, subject to recoupment. And labels should be concerned as well; the lower rate being offered could have the effect of lowering the value of performance royalties to all parties.

What you can do:

If you are an artist signed to the independent label

You can call your label today and request that it not direct license your recordings. In the interest of fairness and transparency, your label should continue to license through SoundExchange.

If you own or manage an independent label

It is in your interest to refrain from direct licensing. While Sirius may be offering positive terms, the long-term effect of accepting a rate lower than the compulsory rate could be to reduce rates overall in the future. Creating downward pressure on the value of music may be good for Sirius/XM, but its bad for artists and labels. Please see the following statement from the American Association of Independent Music:

AMP TV OCT. 14th review

2011-10-24T10:29:00.000-04:00

Can it get any better? I say that every month. This months lineup once again was off the chain! Beginning with Co - Host David Huff of David and the Giants with 17 albums to their credit and David with 5 solo projects. David's sincerity and talent blew us all off the stage. He ended the night with a song he wrote for his son that had us in tears. Casey Darnell, recording artist and worship leader at Northpoint Church blow us away with his cutting edge contemporary stylings, while expressing his love for God and family. A true professional and man of God! Then Marvin Mumford came to bat and knocked a home run with his soul filled contemporary music saturated with a guitar style of his own that was hypnotizing to the heart. Three great musicians, three great men of God. We at AMP cannot express how much we appreciate

their generosity and talent.

What can we do to help the Christian music community?

2011-09-26T12:46:00.004-04:00

If U2 and Chris Tomlin were in concert on the same night, who would have the most Christians at their concert? Sadly for the Christian community, the answer is U2. I'm in no way saying not to support your favorite secular group; this is just an example. There is story after story where concerts are canceled or the turn out was so poor everyone involved lost money. I'm not attempting to guilt anyone into supporting Christian music! Hopefully you will be convicted in your heart to support your local groups as well as national ones.

One of AMP's strong desires is to create awareness and provide venues for all of the talented musicians in the Christian music industry. We are losing young talented Christians to the secular market place due to the lack of support from the Church. Remember we are the Church, it must start with us! Lack of interest = lack of opportunity = lost talent. So what do we do? I'm going to give you some suggestions. Be creative!!!!

Offer a weekly or monthly venue at your Church. Too many Churches are closed and not being encouraged to use their capacity. Are we getting lazy? Complacent?
Support your local musicians by attending their shows and buying their CD's!
Donate to their ministry. Remember music can minister to people just as much or more than any other ministry in your Church!
Encourage them. This is a tough business. We lose many to discouragement.
Pray for them.

God loves Holy music; Let's show him we do too!!!!!!!!!!

How does God play in my music career ???????

2011-09-24T08:28:00.002-04:00

So you think you can do it on your own? Really? No joke? Interesting. So did Amy Winehouse, Jimmy Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Hank Williams, Kurt Cobain,- need I go own? When I hear someone one say they're in control-- what I hear is, their ego is in control and they're headed for a crash. How do I know that? You see, there was a time in my life when I didn't have God in my life and I crashed and burned. My career was going great and I was on the top of the hill. Eventually I rolled down that hill and hit a big rock. That rock was my ego.
This thing we call the music business is like a 3 headed cyclops waiting to devour your heart and soul and eventually your life if you're not grounded. You can not ground yourself. You must have God. Let me repeat-- you must have God in your life? You only have to look at the history of the music business and see the devastation it has had on the lives of many gifted musicians. The demand on your life in this business is overwhelming if you don't understand the importance between God, Family and Career. Please listen to an old guy who learned the hard way. We at AMP truly want to walk with you on your spiritual journey as well as your music career.
Here are some of the ways we suggest to get ready and grounded for a prosperous career and a happy and full life as you take this journey.

1.PRAY

2.READ YOUR BIBLE

3. FIND A CHURCH

4.SERVE AT YOUR CHURCH

5.GIVE BACK AND SERVE OTHERS

6. PUT OTHERS BEFORE YOURSELF

7. HELP SOMEONE ELSE ACHIEVE THEIR GOAL

8. STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN ALL YOU DO

9. REMEMBER YOU'RE WORKING FOR GOD

10. ALL YOU DO, DO IT TO GLORIFY GOD

If you strive for these 10 suggestions you will not believe the peace, happiness, fulfullment and success you will achieve. Also your definition of success will change as you begin to build a relationship with God and glorify him in all you do. My name is J. Grady and I approve this message!!!!!!!!!!

AMPTV SEPT 15 REVIEW

2011-09-16T09:55:00.002-04:00

The evening started off with everyone being early. Wow!!!! Co- Host Brian Stephens came in and was loaded for bear with informative answers to questions that anyone interested in the music business could glean something from. His ability to ask questions of the writers was impeccable . We look forward to having Brian back as a Co - Host in the near future. Josh Vickery came in with 2 heart felt country gospel flavored songs that had to be rendered from the heart. With the combination of his incredible voice and his ability to convey this to his audience, we were all touched and blessed to be sitting on the stage with him. Luke James closed out the circle with a very strong and stylistic approach to contemporary Christian music that can not be challenged. His strong vocals and song -writing abilities should propel him to the top of the industry.
As Josh shared his story of accidentally shooting himself in the temple with his fathers gun when he was nine years old, he had everyone in tears. Josh survived a wound that only seven percent of the people in the world survive from . God is truly with him and has a plan for him. I have a sneaking suspicion it's gonna be ministering to people with his music.
  One of the truly warm moments of the evening was when Luke shared the importance of putting family ahead of his music career. Josh has 5 children and another one on the way. He talked about the balancing act of career and family, always putting family first. A noble man with a talent that will take him as far as he wants to go.
  Thanks to all the guests and for their dedication to God and for supporting AMP and AMPTV. Check us out at myamp.org and view the show at justin.tv/amptv

   Written by J. Grady Pres. and founder of AMP the ASSOCIATION OF MUSIC PROFESSIONALS.

Copyright myths, truths and maybes

2011-09-14T07:18:00.002-04:00

This information is based on the opinion of the Library of Congress. While I can't debunk it, I can give you an experiential point of view. When I was in Nashville we never had a song copyrighted until it was going to be cut. We registered our songs with a Performing rights organization, such as SESAC, ASCAP or BMI. While we have never used the poor mans copyright, I have seen 2 cases won by writers using that message along with a paper trail. We will be teaching more on this subject soon at myamp.org
.

Copyright protection of your work by mailing a copy of it to yourself, then retaining the sealed, postmarked envelope as proof of the date of your authorship.

Status: Not in the U.S., but it might be of some assistance in Britain.

Origins: Copyright is the exclusive right to copy a creative work or allow someone else to do so. It includes the sole right to publish, produce or reproduce, to perform in public, to communicate a work to the public by telecommunication, to translate a work, and in some cases, to rent the work.

You establish your copyright the moment your work is created and fixed in a tangible form. While you need not register your works with the United States Copyright Office to establish ownership of your intellectual property, you will have to register such items if you wish to bring a lawsuit for infringement of a U.S. work. (The fees for such service are laid out on this page.)

As to why to register your works if they are already under copyright from the moment of creation, the United States Copyright Office says:

Registration is recommended for a number of reasons. Many choose to register their works because they wish to have the facts of their copyright on the public record and have a certificate of registration. Registered works may be eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in successful litigation. Finally, if registration occurs within 5 years of publication, it is considered prima facie evidence in a court of law.

Mailing one's works to oneself and keeping the unopened, postmarked envelope as proof of right of ownership to them (a practice known as the "poor man's copyright") has no substantive legal effect in the U.S. We've yet to locate a case of its use where an author's copyright was established and successfully defended in a court of law by this method. At best, such mailings might serve to establish how long the author has been asserting ownership of the work, but since the postmarked-and-sealed envelope "proof" could be so easily circumvented, it is doubtful courts of law would regard such evidence as reliable.

The United States Copyright Office addresses the "poor man's copyright" thusly:

I’ve heard about a "poor man’s copyright." What is it?

The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a "poor man’s copyright." There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration.

However, the U.K. Patent Office has this to say on the subject in its "Claiming and Enforcing Copyright" FAQ:

How can I prove originality in my work?

Ultimately this is a matter for the courts to decide. However, it may help copyright owners to deposit a copy of their work with a bank or solicitor or send a copy of their work to themselves by special delivery (which gives a clear date stamp on the envelope), leaving the envelope unopened on its return; this could establish that the work existed at this time. (Further details of special delivery should be available at Post Offices).

Careful readers will have noted the "may help" and "could establish" in the above entry.

Brad Templeton's page about copyright myths addresses eleven other misapprehensions about copyrights. (Yes, his page is titled "10 Big Myths About Copyright Explained" but there are eleven items listed on it.) Also check out his "Brief Intro" to copyright to further expand your knowledge of the topic. (Trust me; it's painless.)

The maze of the record biz money flow.

2011-09-13T08:37:00.001-04:00

Here's where the money starts going away for the Artist. It is a complex diagram of the proverbial piece of the pie. Let's begin. In the past it always began in the center with an upper tier of deep dark money crevices beginning with the record label in the center. Keeping in mind, through this upper tier the record label is eating the largest piece of the pie. From there it goes to the Artist, from the artist to the manager to the biz manager to the attorney back to the label to the producer back to the label to the publisher always back to the label. That's just the top tier. Are you confused yet? Believe it or not this is an over-simplification of the money flow. I am just trying to help you see the money flow.

The good news is this is changing and changing fast!!!!! I encourage you don't miss the bus. The digital age is here. If you don't get on it you will be stuck in the same place losing thousands if not millions of dollars. I hope you will come join us as we ride the wave of the digital age. A wave of more profit, more freedom, and as an artist an unlimited creative exploration. There are no excuses now if you have the talent and the willingness to learn and do the work. Remember talent + passion+ hard work = success. Come join us at AMP as we take this journey together.

August AMP TV Review!!!!!!

2011-09-12T09:24:00.004-04:00

As we enter into a new phase at AMP TV our shows get better and better. We are learning lots of things to-do to improve on the production to make it better for you. We're excited as we grow into a show that more and more viewers are coming to enjoy. This was our third show. The first month we had just over 1000. viewers. As of now we are over sixty seven thousand and growing by the thousands each week. STAY PLUGGED IN IT'S JUST GETTING BETTER!!!!!!
Our show last month was incredible. It began with Bruce Burch. Bruce has a wealth of experience, far reaching into the depths of the music industry. An accomplished song - writer with several # 1 hits by Reba McIntire and many charted songs by various Artists over his career, he is also on the National Board of Governors for the Grammy's as well as the director for the Joel A Katz music business and entertainment school at Kennesaw State University. He will be Co-Hosting again very soon. Then there was Ashley Harris, a very strong writer, singer and owner of the Ragamuffin music hall in Roswell GA. Back by popular demand was Josh Blevins singer, songwriter, artist. What a talent!!!!! Then our special guest from Nashville TN, John Starnes. John is a consummate pro who has recorded 40 albums, was the featured tenor for Jimmy Swaggart during his formable years, performed on the Gaither homecoming tour, and much more. John will be back as a Co-host in a couple of months. John also has a prison ministry called Timothy's Gift. timothy'sgift.com

This was a very entertaining, fun and informative show!!!!!!!!!!!!! We look forward to seeing you at our Sept 15th show. If you can't make it to the live show; Good listening! Here's a link for info --

5 things the record labels are looking for- when you have a sit down

2011-08-28T14:50:00.045-04:00

I was very fortunate to learn from the best in the industry while growing up in the business in Nashville. So here are a few musts: Originality, Appearance, Commitment, and my #1 qualification, Passion! I am going to give you a few very common sense do's and dont's when talking to or visiting either an A&R person or a record executive.

1. Hygiene. Dress for success! They are looking at you! Their first impression may be the last if you're not dressed for the part.

2. Have a plan. If you don't know where you're going, how can you expect them to?

3. Know your interviewer and the label roster. Showing them you're interested in them will go along way. There's a lot more to your art than the music. This will show you're a well rounded Pro.

4. Have at least 3 songs ready to perform live as well as multiple CD'S. If they're interested in you they will ask you to perform for them and will want to have copies of your music to pass around to the A&R department.

5. Have someone with you to represent you. You need to have a representative with you that understands the business, and can promote you and ask questions that you can't.

As simple and obvious as these may seem, you would be surprised how many people we met with that came to possibly the most important meeting of their life, and blew it.

If someone came in for review we would probably ask "Who do you sound like?" and if their answer was -(example; Garth Brooks) our response would probably go something like this: "Well that's nice, there's already a Garth Brooks-- NEXT!!"
You must be yourself. Don't ever try to be someone that's already out there. You must find your own niche.

Here's another question I would always ask. How long do you plan on pursuing your career? If a limit was put on this question, that tells us a lot. The correct answer is as long as it takes. This is a tough business and it can easily take years to launch a career even after signing a deal. The Artist I know and respect can't quit even if they want to; it's in their blood. Enjoy the trip, because you will find out at the end the destination was not what you were after. Sharing your gift with others is where you find true joy.

A&R on the Web: The Good the Bad and the Ugly

2011-08-28T13:48:00.011-04:00

When I was working in Nashville, a group of around 10 to 15 of us would meet for breakfast at Shoney's on Music Row. We consisted of major label executives, writers, publishers, A&R executives, etc. At the same time, there was another group meeting in the back. These were the guys waiting on their prey to get off the bus while greeting you with a big friendly smile. While promising you stardom, they were all the while hoping to slip their hand in your pocket. Well, these guys have now switched from the Shoney's breakfast club to the world wide web cafeteria.

Caveat Emptor
There are some reputable web services out there on the web, and AMP can help guide you through the maze of land mines in the hope that you will arrive at your destination safely. We have learned through many hours of research that seemingly harmless offers often turn out to be cons. There is no way I could list all of the culprits here. So, what I will attempt to do in this article is point out some of the more glaring types of scams:

The "Song Contest" sites. While there are some legitimate ones out there, most are scams to get your money. Be careful, and and speak to a company representative before signing up.
Sites that promise to get your songs cut.
Over-the-web demos. While there are many great studios that can do this, you really need to be in the studio while your song gets recorded. Your songs are your baby, your creation, and you want to be there from inception to birth.
Offers of publicity deals, selling your songs, making you a star, tour support, booking, etc.

This list goes on and on and there are many variations of each theme. Please do your homework and research the sites carefully before forking over your hard-earned cash!

Check with the Better Business Bureau and don't take everything at face value. Ask questions like, What service am I getting? Are the sites truly offering valuable services like artist mentoring or artist education? What's the potential value / return on my investment? Are the sites endorsed by reputable industry organizations like AMP, the GRAMMYs, SESAC or others?

Always remember, like the predators on Music Row, a lot of sites are geared to prey on your emotions and dreams just to get into your wallet. Don't base your decisions on your emotions. Do your homework!

Are 360 Deals the Record Labels' Swan Song?

2011-08-18T19:03:00.002-04:00

"The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side."
--- Hunter S. Thompson

The record business is quickly dying. Music sales in the United States are less than half of what they were just a decade ago. Worse yet, sales will almost certainly continue to drop as digital distribution becomes more popular.

In response, record labels are completely changing the structure of their contracts with artists. The labels' present direction is to capture revenue streams beyond the sales of recorded music. And, in hopes of returning their corporate earnings to where they once were, the labels are attempting to completely cut out promoters, artist managers, and agents.

Since the dawn of the industry, the role of a record label was limited to producing, distributing, marketing, and selling recorded music. Under the new model, labels receive income from other sources of artists' earnings, including live performances, merchandise sales, publishing, and commercial endorsements. The new contracts are known as “360 deals" or “multiple rights deals". They enable record labels to earn income that was never before available to them, making the labels less reliant on recording income.

The 360 model is only sustainable if it benefits both artists and labels, while providing a desirable product to music consumers, and efficiency to the industry as a whole. And, herein lies the problem with the 360 paradigm. While the new model may work for artists with superstar personas, it will not be acceptable, long-term, for most artists. Not to mention promoters, managers and fans alike.

Despite the growth of the 360 model, the structure is objectively harmful to the industry. For starters, most labels are proving themselves inept – or at best, inexperienced – at managing the other elements of an artist's career from which labels stand to profit under the 360 model.

360 Deals also seem to be leading to an ominous new trend. The model's focus on exploiting as many revenue streams as possible has brought about a trend known as “band branding" which removes the emphasis from musicians' music and redirects it towards artists as “brands” that can be sold in a variety of forms. As media theorist Douglas Rushkoff noted, “Recording artists are finding the only way to achieve any financial safety is to become a lapdog of the great corporations.”

Despite the negative aspects of 360 Deals, artists will continue to form these contracts over the short term simply because labels remain the primary source of venture capital for artists. Eventually, however, the majority of artists may forego traditional record labels altogether.

Instead, they may seek 360-style arrangements with more adept and efficient industry players like managers and booking agents. In fact, a handful of savvy artists have already begun to steer their careers themselves by taking advantage of digital distribution, leveraging internet marketing tools, and actively networking to promote their own music. Eventually, this may spell the end of the major labels altogether.

So what do you think? Are 360 deals bad for the industry as a whole? Will the major record labels eventually fade away? Will artists eventually manage their careers themselves? We want to hear from you!

SONG WRITING - How Do I Get The Lyrics To The Page?

2011-08-16T13:30:00.006-04:00

I can't tell you how many people I have had say to me, "I wish I could write a song, but it just doesn't work for me." Well, it won't work for everyone, but it will work for a lot more potential writers than you think. Another question is, "Do you have to be inspired to write?" If you're writing professionally, the answer is no. If you're writing for inspiration, it depends on if you want to write professionally or for a hobby. Hopefully you will find a passion for writing and want to take it all the way.
I'm going to share with you the most important secret to getting your song on paper, whether you're inspired or not: Writing "to the hook" is a trick the pros use. When you're a staff writer with a quota you must have new ideas weekly. You may ask how do I do that, and what is a hook?

A hook is a lyrical phrase that your listener will remember even if they don't remember the lyric to the rest of the song. Such as "Momma don't dance and Daddy don't rock in roll", "Stairway to heaven", "Girls just want to have fun", etc... You must learn to write to the hook to be a successful song-writer!
Start a hook book. This is a place you store catchy phrases that your listener can latch on to.
Write to the hook. This means all your lyrics must point and lead to the hook.
Get feedback from others.

Of course, this advice just scratches the surface. However, I hope this will give you some tools to get you started writing your first hit single!

What makes a good song?

2011-08-01T08:28:00.002-04:00

There are a lot of opinions on this topic and no one knows all the answers. It is subject to many variables. I can give you some of the things I learned as a staff writer for many years. This won't be an exhaustive list but it will help you get started.

1) Remember you're writing to 5th graders.
2) You must have a good memorable lyrical hook.
3) It also needs to have a musical hook that doesn't sound like everything else on the radio.
4) Be original!
5) Try to keep the song as close to three minutes as possible.
6) Get rid of throw away words like buts and I's etc...
7) The topic needs to be relatable to your audience.
8) Keep it interesting.

All of these sound simple to do but there is a lot more to song-writing. This is a good place to start. At AMP our goal is to take you as for as you want to go as a writer. Come join us and let us walk you the art of song-writing. myamp.org

Do you have what it takes????

2011-07-28T13:38:00.001-04:00

So you think you have what it takes to penetrate that impregnable wall in music land? What if I said forget it? Keep your day job! You may be thinking what a jerk! You may be right. I can't count how many times people told me that on my journey. There was one person who always believed in me. That person was me. If you don't believe in yourself there's a good chance neither will others.

My belief is this; if you've truly got the gift you can't stop. It's in your heart, your soul and your bones. When GOD GIVES US GIFTS, He does not base it on what other's opinions are. If you got it, claim it, own it and use it. God will do the rest. There is no doubt that at times you will be discouraged, but you can't allow that to stop you if you truly believe in yourself. Remember there are no great people just ordinary people accomplishing great challenges. Three words--Grow thick skin. Do not listen to the nay sayers, listen to the yea sayers!!!! So when you're about ready to give up remember this -- Don't stop before the miracle happens. It could be the miracle was waiting on you 5 minutes later.

Do you have a plan?

2011-07-26T13:40:00.001-04:00

So you want to be a writer, maybe an artist, even a producer or publisher. What's your plan? Do you even have one? I'm sure you've heard the proverbial statement, (putting the wagon before the horse). Where is your horse? There's a myth that runs around the music business that says all you have to have is talent. If you believe that, let me know how that works out for you. Those days are gone. Actually they never existed. Yes some have gotten lucky. Would you prefer trusting luck, or having a well thought out plan? Have you ever heard the harder you work the luckier you get? Well, it's true!

One reason most people don't have a plan is they don't have enough information to form one. Knowledge is your ally. At AMP our goal is to create a custom business model for you so you can focus on your craft. We need to hear from you so we know what you need, not just what we think you need. Here is your opportunity to be a part of your success and to take action in your future! Come join us at AMP and partner with us in your career at myamp.org

2011-07-24T19:49:00.001-04:00

We had another wonderful SONGwriters circle. We need your support to continue. Click here. http://www.justin.tv/amptv#r=-rid-&s=em

You can't handle the truth/A few good men

2011-07-11T12:29:00.002-04:00

You can't handle the truth! A quote by Jack Nicholson from the movie A Few Good Men. Can you handle the truth? I can't tell you how many times I'm asked the question, how do I get my songs heard? Are you ready for the truth? Not only is it tough, it's extremely tough. Why, you may ask? First of all there are literally thousands of writers and some of them with hundreds of songs trying to do the same thing you are. Then there's only a limited amount of publishers and producers etc. listening. So why even bother?

You have to ask yourself, are my songs good enough or could they be? I hope you answered yes. And if you did I have some good news. It is just as possible for you as it was for anyone else before you. First your songs have to be very good. Then you have to be willing to do the work to get there. If you're not willing to do the work to get there, don't even bother; it won't happen.

More good news! We are working very hard to develop a program for you to to make that happen. We will be launching our new website very soon. Stay tuned. For now check out our monthly web TV show -- at justin.tv/amptv

Networking With the Makers -- the Watchers -- The Wonderers

2011-07-08T06:35:00.004-04:00

There are three kinds of people in this world: Those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened after it happened. Which one are you? Oh yeah, then there is the lazy, the kind of lazy, and the workers. I hope you're getting my drift.

Somewhere along the line, there has become a misconception that being in the music industry is a way to get out of plain old putting your nose to the grindstone work. This is so far from the truth that it hurts.

Let's talk about networking, which is the single most important thing you have to do after you've developed your talent. If you want to be a success in this business, you need to roll up your sleeves and get busy networking. If you don't do this one thing you are doomed to failure. You've heard the term six degrees of separation? Well it's true. So who do I network with? Simple answer- everyone! You never know who the next person you network with may introduce you too. It just may be the one that changes your life.

At AMP we are driven to helping you learn how to network. Come join us for our live web TV show or click on justin.tv/amptv to watch the show and learn more.

An Important word from the GRAMMYs.

2011-07-07T05:22:00.001-04:00

If you're interested in the music business, this is an important statement from the GRAMMYs. We all must stay on top of what is going on in the business. Be a part of the business! Join the GRAMMYs; it's an important part of the music business. We at AMP endorse this message. J. Grady, president and founder of AMP and amp TV. Watch AMP TV at -- justin.tv/amptv June 22 Click on link to hear message www.grammy.com/announcement

The ART IN MUSIC. Is it lost???????

2011-07-01T06:38:00.001-04:00

Is the ART of music lost???? Absolutely not! However, there is the money machine driving the prefabricated commercial pod auto-tuned synthesized sound that is making millions for them. We know who they are; right? This money driven machine makes it nearly impossible for the true artist to get a break and be heard by the masses.

Now we have to ask ourselves, where are we in this picture? Then do some serious soul searching and ask, why do we create music? Is it for fame, fortune, or for the Art? If you answered the first two, you are a true blue member of the machine. There's nothing wrong with that, this exercise is just to help you find your place in all the madness.

Remember there will always be Art in music and it has nothing to do with mass appeal or what others do. We should not begrudge or become jealous or resentful of the machine. Just remember this ART comes from the heart, not the wallet. J. Grady Pres. and Founder of AMP The Association Of Music Professionals.

I finished the song! Now what?

2011-06-27T11:38:00.001-04:00

I can't begin to tell you how many calls and emails I've received over the years where writers are looking for a way to get their songs heard. Don't take this the wrong way, however most writers I've met don't have the drive to do what it takes to get out there. That's not a bad thing; that's just the way it is. Another thing I get is -- I've written several songs can you pitch them for me? Sure, send me all you've got. WRONG!!!!! sSo what do I do then?

AMP is working very hard on what I like to call the Unsigned Writers Holy Grail. It's called Nashville-in-a-Box, which is a virtual publishers, producers, and record label's music row. For now, you have to do it the old fashioned way: network, network, network. Another tool we are developing is AMP street. This is where you will have access to networking with literally hundreds of writers and artists like yourself when you become a member of AMP. We are endorsed by the Grammy's and many other professional groups. If you're serious, you have to invest in your career, both time and money. No one is going to do it for free. Let us help you; come join us at www.myamp.org and evolutionofasong.blogspot.com and justin.tv/amptv and learn who we are. Get plugged in!!!!!!!!!

AMP supports this article from the Grammy's

2011-06-23T15:32:00.000-04:00

Navigating Digital Distribution: Mysteries Revealed" posed the question, “What’s the upload?” The digital landscape has opened up tremendous, previously unthinkable opportunities for artists to get their work out into the marketplace, but the roads through that landscape can be tremendously confusing. This panel brought together entrepreneurs and experts in the field of digital distribution, all of whom offered unique insights, advice and angles on how an artist can best move from hopeful upload to registered sale. The panelists included Kevin Arnold, founder and CEO of comprehensive digital music service IODA; Jeff Price, founder and CEO of digital distribution company TuneCore; Derek Sivers, founder and president of Web-based indiemusic seller CD Baby; and Bruce Taylor, VP of marketing and PR of SNOCAP Inc., a service that allows artists to set up their own Web-based stores. The panel was moderated by Eric Garland, CEO of BigChampagne Media Measurement, which provides analysis on issues involving the intersection of entertainment and technology.

"Unsigned And Making It" discussed the gloominess in the industry generally stemming from the fact that traditional industry business models are in a period of uncertain transition. But if the old models aren’t working, what about some new ones? There’s more music being created, and listened to, than ever before and artists are increasingly exploring new ways to get their songs heard. This positive view of the shifting musical landscape was enthusiastically addressed by Danny Benair, ex-punk/pop drummer, former music publishing exec and current chief of music placement service Natural Energy Lab; music supervisor extraordinaire Alexandra Patsavas, whose Chop Shop Music Supervision company works with such hit TV shows as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Rescue Me,” and “Without A Trace”; Tommy Tallarico, composer, video game industry icon and founder of the Game Audio Network Guild; and Adam Merrin and Keith Slettedahl, members of up-and-coming indie rock band the 88. The discussion was moderated by producer/engineer Mike Clink, whose much-respected work with artists such as Guns ’N Roses, Aerosmith and Metallica qualified him to lead a discussion on non-traditional approaches to musical career-building.

The next burning question on everyone’s mind is “You’ve got your music online, now what?” The latest panel in the series will bring together the marketing and PR experts to help you figure out how to get your music heard. Panelists will include Brooke Burt, co-founder and publicity director of Indigenous Promotions; Nathan Hoy, vice president of music of ReverbNation; Anne Litt, KCRW-FM DJ and music supervisor; Brad Barish, Head of Operations at Topspin; and Jeff Varner, artist manager, the Collective. This stellar panel will be moderated by Carmen Rizzo, two-time GRAMMY-nominated engineer, producer/remixer/musician.

Join us for what is sure to be an informative, enlightening discussion on June 23, either in person or live on GRAMMY365.

June 17, 2011 - 9:24am

Got talent?

2011-06-20T17:57:00.002-04:00

Got Talent?? I think the link I'm sharing, it would be safe to say, showcases talent. So let's say you have this level of talent, or maybe a little more or a little less, you would think that's enough, right. Wrong!!!!!! It's certainly a good start. There are so many people out there with talent to the point it's mind boggling! There's a few more things you must have if you're going to make it in music-land that are a must --- passion, perseverance, drive, thick skin, be a self-starter, go-getter and the ability to help others along the way. Also it's hard to get there, but staying there is even harder. Being grounded in a strong moral and ethical belief is just as important, if you want to be happy when you arrive. Trust me, I know from experience. Experience the real thing, plant your feet on solid ground; it's worth it!!!! Check out this link and hear the whole package. Nia Imani Electronic Press Kit - Streaming Music, Photos, Videos, Lyrics and Info - Sonicbids

Pics from our May AMP TV SHOW

2011-05-24T15:57:00.001-04:00

W e are very excited with the progress of AMP TV Evolution of a song/ song writing with a purpose. This is a sample of some of the upcoming events and educational seminars that AMP will be offering. We would love to have you become part of AMP as well as AMP TV. Check out the latest show at justin.tv/amptv Check out pics Association of Music Professionals (AMP) TV show, May 20 Click here to watch showAMPTV presents- "Evolution of a Song; Songwriting with a purpose" May 20th 2011

2011-04-18T06:56:00.000-04:00

Here's a pic from our first Montly web TV show -- evolution of a song-- song writing with a purpose.

Watch AMP TV Song Writing With A Purpose clic on link below

2011-04-18T05:27:00.001-04:00

We kicked off our first monthly Web TV broadcast - Evolution of a song / Song Writing With A Purpose. What a night!!!!! Dove award winning writer producer Dan Hannon was Co - Host. Stellar award winning writer, producer, Artist JoJo Hill, Recording Artist, writer, Producer Josh Blevins, and Recording Artist, Pam Hamilton performed in the Song Writers circle.. It was a night of passion and craftsmanship at its best. Click on the link below and see for yourself!!!!!!

Justin.tv

credits for AMP TV

2011-04-15T08:06:00.000-04:00

This is the first live TV show for AMP TV

2011-04-14T09:42:00.000-04:00

Evolution of a Song

2011-04-11T21:45:00.000-04:00

CHALLENGES OF BEING A SONG - WRITER

2011-04-04T10:17:00.001-04:00

In the past and up to this point it has been nearly impossible to get your songs heard. Guess what, that's about to change! In the past, if you did not have a publisher, know an artist, or have a connection at a label, etc. the forecast was dim. I know the feeling of having a song you believe in and no one there to listen. Thank God for the digital age!!!!
We at AMP are working very hard to change that. We have a secret weapon and plan on using it soon to change the old way of doing business. This is not going to be a gimmick, it will be in real time and you can watch it work. Come join us as we help each other reach our goals.

SONGWRITING WITH A PURPOSE 1ST SHOW

2011-03-29T11:17:00.001-04:00

God is blessing us at AMP. The Grammy's and SESAC have agreed to participate with us in our monthly Web TV series for Christian Song Writers; Song Writing with a Purpose. We are very excited to be working with these highly professional organizations delivering relevant content for today's music business.

Our line up for the first show is packed with talent from Dove award winning producers, writers, SESAC Atlanta Chapter and more.

Next month we will be featuring a segment on the Music Business Edge with the Grammy's.

We will be shooting video next week. Stay tuned for more information.

Song-writing with a purpose web TV Series

2011-03-24T06:11:00.001-04:00

We at AMP are excited to announce the official kickoff date for our web TV monthly Songwriting with a purpose! The series begins april, 15, 2011 at 7 p.m. on Justin TV. We are looking for new talented writers to showcase, also we will be featuring established writers as well as industry professionals from all areas of the music industry. This is a chance to get your music heard worldwide and network and learn from the hit-makers. There will also be a live chat-room for you to ask questions directly to the writers and industry guest. If you would like to be a part of this please submit 2 songs to myamp.org . or gshuman@myamp.org

song-writing with a purpose web TV Series

2011-03-22T16:16:00.000-04:00

We're excited AMP will be hosting a once a month TV Web Christian song - writing circle and educational show beginning April 15th at 4 pm. We are looking for writers; let us hear from you. At the end of the year we will be selecting one person for a free 3 song master demo. Come join us as we carry the message.

Evolution of a song: Want to get rich selling your records?

2011-03-18T17:58:00.001-04:00

Evolution of a song: Want to get rich selling your records?: "So you think if you sign a record deal then you're set for life? If so then I'm the Pope! Check the facts. Did you know that if you had a deal and sold 5..."

Want to get rich selling your records?

2011-03-06T07:57:00.001-05:00

So you think if you sign a record deal then you're set for life? If so then I'm the Pope! Check the facts. Did you know that if you had a deal and sold 500,000.00 copies of your CD, you would only make between 35 or 40 thousand dollars. So where does the rest of the money go? Not to you, that's for sure! You see, the label is always going to get their investment back first. My experience has been that everything a label does to promote your career is highly over-inflated. Example: your recording session on average would cost you 100,000 to 190,000. Then there's tour support, record promotion, PR, manager, booking agent, oh yeah for you superstars a personal assistant, and on and on.
So where do I make my money? First, you had better rest up because now you're about to go to work. Your touring schedule will be exhausting at best, and you'd better hope you had a good manager and attorney to negotiate your contract from the get go. There are things like concessions, mechanical royalties, TV etc.
We at AMP believe with the current trend of the digital crossroads all of that is changing. We are working on a new cutting edge model that we believe will help you to do-it-yourself and retain the profit you deserve from your talent and your effort. Here's a happy note. You should be able to make approximately the same profit selling around 10,000 copies as you would with a label selling 500,000.00 copies. Sounds sick, it is. We will be sharing how this is possible in our upcoming wedinar series Evolution of a Song. Hit us back!!!!!

Want to be the organ grinders monkey?

2011-03-01T15:57:00.001-05:00

What's it like in the traditional sense of having a record deal? It's very much like being the organ grinder's monkey. He turns the crank and you dance. What happened to the days of being an artist that is true to self? Have we lost our identity along the way? I think identity has been lost at the price of fame and fortune. We at AMP want to be a part of bridging the gap towards bringing the spirit of the creative artist back to the front. Have you heard the term cookie cutter, or everything sounds the same? God did not give us talent to be like everyone else. He created us to be individuals. Do you want to be a part of bringing individual creativity back? If so come join us at Evolution of a Song and AMP as we begin to bridge the gap.

Is writing a great song enough?

2011-02-28T19:05:00.005-05:00

Wouldn't it be nice if every great song got recorded, played on the radio, and the whole world sung along? That's a nice thought but nowhere near reality. I was a staff writer in Nashville for over 15 years and I've got to tell you some of the best songs I ever heard never got heard, much less recorded. Just writing songs is great if you have a publisher who is beating the pavement and is really aggressive. However, that's the exception, not the rule. Most publishers that are successful have anywhere from 5 to 10 writers on staff. Each writer has a catalog and is writing new stuff continually. The old gets old the new gets lost and how songs finally get cut is a mystery to us all. Or is it?
Network network net work work work work! We will be talking in the upcoming webinar Evolution of a Song about ways of increasing your chances of getting your hit recorded. There is so much more to writing a song and doing a demo to complete the process than most know. I hope you can join us in our webinar.

Evolution of a song: digital crossroads event

2011-02-23T17:49:00.000-05:00

Evolution of a song: digital crossroads event

AMP and Grammies Digital Crossroads Event

2011-02-23T17:35:00.000-05:00

I think I was awake!!!!!!!!

digital crossroads event

2011-02-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

Why should a song only be around 3 minutes?

2011-02-21T06:05:00.001-05:00

Personally, I feel if a song is really happening, 4 to 4 1/2 minutes is OK. Anything longer, you start to lose the listener. So why 3 minutes? Most writers I know are looking to get their songs on the radio. I have heard many reasons for the 3 minute rule. For me the most believable reason is advertisement. The more ads a station can sell, the more revenue. First of all if the songs are too long the listener is going to lose interest and change channels. When that happens enough, the station will lose its ad-buck rating and the price they can charge for ads will go down. Fewer songs = more ads which = more revenue for the stations. Contrary to popular myth, radio is driven by profit, not music. Have a question? We would love to answer it.

Talent Search

2011-02-16T20:05:00.001-05:00

Amp is looking for a female singer to be part of the Evolution of a Song. We are beginning to build a model for the new digital age. You must have a wide range and a lot of motivation and a strong walk. This project is Jazz with a hint of R&B. The music is ready are you? Send two mp3s of your stuff to Gradyshuman @gmail.com ------check out myamp.org and airriamusic.com

growth of evolution

2011-02-16T17:57:00.001-05:00

We are very excited, more and more professionals are beginning to Co- align with us. The list of instructors for the webinar is getting deep. Also we're beginning to see movement from sponsors. We now hope the webinar will be launched around the same time as the Dove awards. Pray for us.

2011-02-13T21:58:00.001-05:00

2011-02-10T09:06:00.000-05:00

Got a question about song-writing?

2011-02-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

I have a widget on my page. You can ask a question, I will do my best to answer.

Tricks of the professional song writers

2011-02-08T10:57:00.001-05:00

As we begin to plan the upcoming seminar for Evolution of a Song, I'm thinking of some of the most valuable tricks I learned from some of the legendary writers I had the opportunity to write with. For example, what do you do if you get stuck, what is a hook, how do you critique your own work, continuity and more. I was a staff writer for many years and was privileged to learn from the best. As a writer, publisher, and producer I would like to share with you what I learned and the truth of the business. Also we are going to have a long list of pros to answer any question you may have concerning the music business. Come join us!

Blogging interaction

2011-02-05T23:20:00.001-05:00

Just began interacting, I can see where this is going to be a great tool!

Blogging Concept

2011-02-05T21:44:00.000-05:00

As I begin to learn the blogging concept I hope to keep you updated on all the exciting happenings around AMP, AIRRIA Music, and Misty Williamsons New Christian Jazz CD SPEAK TO ME - COMING OUT IN THE SPRING

Learning to blog!

2011-02-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

Sometimes fear will keep you from doing things you need to try. I was afraid to even attempt to build a blog site. Much to my surprise I am actually enjoying it. I can see this as a launching pad to learn and even consider building a web site.

2011-02-05T20:53:00.000-05:00

2011-02-05T20:44:00.001-05:00

2011-02-05T20:41:00.001-05:00

evolution of a song

2011-02-05T12:38:00.001-05:00

AMP Association of music professionals is getting ready to do a 7 part series on the Evolution of a Song. Stay tuned!!!!!