The International Songwriting Competition

How can all the talented songwriters across the world be recognized? If your serious about your skill make sure you have entered The International Songwriting Competition.

The International Songwriting Competition is an annual song contest whose mission is to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena. Amateur and professional songwriters and musicians are invited to participate. They also boast the most prestigious panel of judges of all the songwriting and music contest in the world. Giving exposure and the opportunity to have your songs heard by the most influential decision-makers in the music industry.


The International Songwriting Competition recently bestowed its highest honor for 2008, the ISC Grand Prize, to Kate Miller-Heidke and Keir Nuttall of Brisbane, Australia for their song "Caught In The Crowd." The grand prize winners will get $25,000 and over $20,000 in prizes for what the organization describes as a "brilliantly quirky pop song with an emotional message about schoolyard bullying and peer pressure." In its seventh year, ISC received over 15,500 songs from amateur and professional songwriters from 100 countries worldwide. The judges include Tom Waits, Rob Thomas (Matchbox Twenty), Ray Davies (The Kinks), Chaka Khan, McCoy Tyner, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Robert Smith (The Cure).

For more information on IFC 2009 competition check out the official website.

http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/


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Life of a A&R 4/30/09

Check out the latest blog




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Lil Wayne Doesn't Read Our Blog

If you came to I dO MUSIC this past month you heard Jonathan Leonard and others talk about copyright infringement. Last year Lil Wayne fell victim to the same situation. A lawsuit was filed implying he didn't secure permission to sample folk singer Karma-Ann Swanepoel's song "Once" on his track "I Feel Like Dying."

Wayne's lawyers filed a lawsuit against Rebel Rock Productions Inc. who were responsible for obtaining any necessary licensing agreements. They haven't responded to the claims and contact number has been disconnected.


Last month, a federal magistrate ordered rapper Lil Wayne to turn over financial records for his Grammy-winning album, "Tha Carter III," to Urband & Lazar Music Publishing, which published "Once."

"I Feel Like Dying" isn't a track on "Tha Carter III," but a lawyer for Urband & Lazar argues that Lil Wayne promoted the album by singing that song in concert and allowing fans to download it for free on his Web site.

Understand no matter how hot your song is, if it catches fire you better be ready to control the flames.

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Serato Scratch Upgrade

The majority of djs today utilize some sort of DJ computerized program to set their parties and shows off. The most favorable is Serato Scratch Live. The newest version dropped, 1.9 if you didn't know already. We have some of the new features in the clip below. No question it is a total upgrade so make sure you up date ASAP!!!

NAMM 2009 **NEW** Scratch Live v1.9
by agiprodj

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Video RECAP - "I dO Music" April

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PatchWerk Studios - Graphic Design Internship

PatchWerk Recording Studios is seeking a part-time, paid, graphic design intern.

This internship is open to recent graduates and students currently working on their degree in graphic design. Students are on-call and paid-per-project.

The position involves:

• Working closely with the Marketing Administrator and Marketing Manager on the production and design details of all PatchWerk materials, including but not limited to identities, publications, brochures, announcements, advertisements, posters, promotional materials, websites etc.
• Preparation of files, and other documents to be sent to print.

Candidates should have:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to be analytical, work well with people, work independently and take initiative.
• Proficiency with design programs, i.e.: Quark, InDesign, Acrobat, Photoshop, Page Maker
• Thorough, accurate, organized and efficient work habits.
• Capacity to work under tight deadlines and juggle multiple projects.
• Your own personal laptop
• Flexible schedule

Please email letters of interest and deign portfolios to marketing@patchwerk.com
Subject line: Graphic Design Internship

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Rob Watson Talks the A&R Business: Episode 2







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IdM Radio Ad Feat. Dizzy Wonda & Spare Change

I dO Music Radio Ad feat. Dizzy Wunda & Spare Change by I dO Music Community

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So You Rhyme Huh?!?

In my last post I mentioned that one of the biggest mistakes new songwriters make is putting too much weight on "rhyming" to the point where it sounds forced and undermines the message. However rhyming does have its uses. For one, along with a good melody, rhyming makes your song easier to remember and sing along to. In addition, we have all been trained to respond emotionally and sometimes even physically to rhyme and melody (just think of your kindergarten and grade school years) so we're used to learning in that way. The bottom line is listeners are more comfortable with songs that have great rhyme and melody.

With rhyming in particular, the complexity of your rhyming patterns show how experienced you are at writing songs. As you start to research and explore various structures and pattens be very careful not to make it too technical and remember that songwriting is an art form, not a science (although most art forms have some technical attributes that can be broken down). Below I've listed some of the most common rhyming patterns for your to try out... Feel free to dig in and get a little creative!

First, Let's go over some Rhyming Terminology

Stanza - A series of lines arranged together in a cohesive recurring pattern of rhythm and rhyme.

Masculine Rhymes - The most common form of rhyming; one syllable rhymes. (i.e. Cat & Bat, Lagoon & Monsoon)

Feminine Rhymes - A rhyme that matches two or more syllables

Internal Rhymes - Used heavily by hip-hop pioneers such as Rakim, this is a rhyme that occurs in the middle of a line or in a single line of the verse. (i.e. "Ready to aim at the brain" - Rakim, Let the Rhyme Hit 'Em)

Partial Rhymes - An imperfect rhyme (i.e. rough and love, or make and Chase)

For a more extensive list of rhyming terms click here

Now For Some Rhyming Patterns:

These are all the ways you can set up your rhyme schemes... They are usually written by using letters to indicate which lines rhyme.

AABB

ABAB

AAAA

BBBB

ABABABCC

ABABBCC

ABAABBA

Now We'll Breakdown a Popular Song by it's Rhyme Schemes

"So Sick" by Ne-Yo

Gotta change my answering machine, now that I'm alone (A,B)

Cause right now it says that we, Can't come to the phone (A,B)

And I know it makes no sense caused you walked out the door, (C)

But it's the only way I hear your voice anymore (C)

It's ridiculous (A)

It's been months And for some reason I just (A/B)

Can't get over us (A)

And I'm stronger then this (B)

Enough is enough (A)

No more walkin' 'round With my head down (B)

I'm so over being blue (C)

Cryin' over you (C)

And I'm so sick of love songs (A)

So tired of tears (B)

So done with wishing (C)

you were still here (B)

Said I'm so sick of love songs (A)

So sad and slow (D)

So why can't I turn off the radio? (D)

Notice how complex Ne-Yo's rhyme structure is. Although they clearly establish a structure they're not too stiff and he maintains some interesting dynamics. This was one of Ne-Yo's biggest hits. Take notes...

For the full list of rhyme schemes click here...

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Rob Watson Talks the A&R Business




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This is Your Brain; This Is Your Brain On Music!

Ever wondered what's the scientific explanation for why certain people are naturally drawn to certain kinds music? A book appropriately titled, "This Is You Brain On Music", does a great job at explaining what happens in the brain when we listen to music. A New York Times Best Seller written by Daniel J. Levitin, this book examines the brain’s role in listening to and processing music without downplaying the role of our emotions. Understanding how the brain works in relation to musical expression can help you apply some logic to why your next masterpiece is or isn't received as such.

Click here to learn more about this book.


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7 Awesome Internet Resources for Audiophiles

An audiophile, from Latin audio "I hear" and Greek philos "loving," is a person, who typically listens to music on high-end audio electronics.

Audiophiles try to listen to music at a quality level that is as close to the original performance as possible using high-fidelity components. DIY audio enthusiasts build their own equipment, especially loudspeakers.

7 Great Internet Resources for Audiophiles include:

1. Blip.fm

If Twitter asks the question, “What are you doing?” Blip.fm asks “What are you listening to?” Blip is a community of music lovers where you can manage your own station and share music on Twitter and Facebook. You can add your favorite “stations” and re-blip the music they play. Through its easy-to-use interface, you can also award others whose music you like by giving them props.

2. Last.fm

Last.fm is similar to Blip.fm but the interface is very different and is usually the place people go to when they can’t find songs they want on blip.fm. On Last.fm, users can search for music by genre. The more Last.fm learns what you like, the better it gets (kind of like Pandora). You’ll get new music recommendations, videos, free MP3s and concert listings — all based on what you listen to, resulting in a non-stop, personalized radio experience. Also, Last.fm can sync with iTunes to autoMAGICally fill your music library with what you’ve been listening to on your computer or iPod.

3. Pandora
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without Pandora. Probably one of the most well-known Internet music resources, Pandora uses its Music Genome Project database and software to learn what kind of music you like and deliver it to you based on “stations” that you create. Available as an iPhone app, Pandora is extremely portable and flexible.

4. Jam Legend
Jam Legend is gaming and music in one. If you’re a fan of guitar hero, you’ll love Jam Legend. It’s got the same format as the console version, minus the guitar. You pick your song and an opponent, then battle it out in a showdown. Very fun and very addicting.

5. Filter Music
Filter Music has a list of Internet Radio stations that stream high quality music. With Filter, you’ve got the option of saving your playlist on VLC or personal Media Player to take with you wherever you go.

6. Live365
Live365 has a database of over 6,000 radio stations run by real people. There are a lot more genre, artist and song choices than a lot of other services. Pretty much anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can create his or her own Internet radio station.

7.Gollyday
Gollyday is a music community built around a notification service that allows you to follow artists and venues and receive instant alerts when tours and concerts are announced, and more importantly, when they are coming to your town. Gollyday was created for concert-going music-lovers! Even if you don’t like going to concerts, you’ll be able to discover new music and connect with your friends in new and exciting ways. Put simply, if you breathe and like music, GD is for you! Gollyday is currently accepting sign ups for private beta.


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Video Games Pay $2,500 Per Minute

I came across this link about the top video game composers and how much money they're bringing in just off of video game placements... it's wild!!! Video games and movies are prime opportunities for additional revenue streams if you're a talented producer... get with the "program" (pun intended, lol)

LINK: http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118002629.html?categoryid=20&cs=1


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ATL's Core Djs Retreat

If you think this week is average please think again. The W Hotel Downtown, located at 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd in Atlanta is gonna be absolutely crazy. The Core Djs Retreat taking place this weekend is guaranteed to be filled with fun, networking, promoting and learning. The objective is to bring all djs no matter your affiliation together to network, attend listening sessions and panels discussing the latest trends in music. The leading labels will have new artist performing all around the city.


The Core DJ Retreat is the highlight of the Urban Music industry & has been since Feb 2005. The Retreat is for all DJs, Artists, Labels, Music Industry Entrepreneurs, Industry Professionals & Producers who want to network, gain better DJ/artist/label relationships & break new records!

For more information go to www.coredjs.com





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Add Some Spice to THAT!

Main Ingredients: Good Structure... Good lyrics... Great Melody

These are the things that generally make up a great song. More than likely if you're having trouble writing good songs or getting positive feedback about your songs they are lacking in one or all of these areas. What you have to do is FOCUS! Next time someone says "Nah, I'm not really feeling that" or you can tell by their body language that they aren't into your song try asking them which area (lyrics, melody, or structure) they think can be improved? Take their constructive criticisms and keep them in mind next time you sit down and write.

Cooking Utensils: Pencil, Pen, A Notebook or NotePad, and Vivid Experiences.

Whether you're writing about fictional scenarios from your imagination or real life experiences that are near and dear to your heart, one thing is for sure...it has to be vivid and authentic. Translated, most professional songwriters will explain this technique as "Speaking to the heart from the heart". The only way you can achieve this is by writing from vision or experience. One thing about writing is that you can always tell when something is fabricated and when it's really from the heart! If you ever experience writer's block or you just aren't satisfied with the songs that you're coming up with just STOP, leave wherever you are, and DO SOMETHING! You are an artists that paints beautiful portraits with their experiences so if you don't have any experiences you don't have any paint to add to the canvas! So the next time you settle down in your favorite spot to write, after you secure you favorite pen and pad, make sure you gather some fresh experiences to go along with it.

Your Spices: Remember that there are NO RULES in music creation. However there are guidelines and principles that can help you create more easily. Just be sure not to let them make your song stiff. These are some of the common elements you can use to spice up your song...

Verses, Choruses & Hooks, Pre/Post Choruses, Bridge, Chord Progressions, Transposition, Harmony, Velocity/Expression, Instrument Solos, etc.

The Number one Mistake New Writers Make: You're not Writing a "Rhyme", You're Writing a "Song"

Often a new writer gets so tied up in rhyming that the rhymes force the song to use words that sound like the words were picked simply because they rhymed, not because they helped the song. Don’t get discouraged. Like anything, writing good songs takes practice and some effort. A rhyme works best when it seems like it was an accident that words rhymed, and the lyrics are so fresh that the rhyming isn’t even noticed, the song just has that "effect" of all fitting together somehow and rhymes were a part of that. (Taken from http://www.easy-song-writing.com/articles/songBasics.asp)

Songs are not hard to write if you remember and master just a few of these things. As the saying goes... "Practice Makes Perfect". Immerse yourself in it! Live it, and Breath it. FOCUS on one thing at a time. With some hard work, determination, and a lot of faith I'm sure I'll see you on stage at the GRAMMY's in no time!

Till Then...


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How to Treat 'Em When You Meet "Em

So one day you're at your regular day-job just minding your own business counting down the hours you have left on the clock until you're freed from this wretched place and out of no where Andre 3000 pops up in the same isle you happened to be restocking...what do you do??!!?!?

This is a classic scenario - we've all been somewhere totally random and have been confronted with the "oh shoot..it's so and so...this is my chance!" Well here's some advice you'll thank me for later...

If it doesn't feel right, DON'T TAKE THAT CHANCE!!! And if it does feel right, DON'T TAKE THAT CHANCE!!!

Listen to me VERY carefully- these celebrities get that type of treatment from 98% of the people they run into that happen to know who they are. I'm going to let you in on a little secret... most stars and celebrities just want to be treated like regular people. Moreover the key is to treat Andre like a peer. If you approach him with confidence, poise, and something relevant to share without asking him for anything, he'll respond to you better. On the flip-side if you approach him like you're clearly star struck or you introduce yourself, make random conversation, then proceed to asking him for a record deal or some other self-serving request... you can kiss that opportunity goodbye!! If you act like he's above you or better than you in any way then your giving him permission to act as such. Just be yourself and do what you do. You may find it hard to resist, but believe it or not, it is best-practice not to ask for anything at all. Just introduce yourself, tell 'em you're a fan, and if you're personable enough to find a way to keep the conversation going mention to him what you have going on. But DO NOT ASK FOR A THING! In the end, if you don't ask and Andre enjoyed your conversation, he'll respect you more and with time chances are he'll offer you what you wanted from jump street. If he doesn't, but you're able to build some type of relationship from that initial meeting then a better time will present itself where you can ask for what you need...but timing is CRUCIAL!!! Treat it like dating... never ask to sleep over on the first date (you'll probably freak her out!)

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I dO Music Submission 101

Listen, Comment, Network, Enjoy!!

Want to perform at one of our "I dO Music" Events?!? Send us your music for consideration. Once uploaded, we will listen to your track and even send you feedback!! Whether you make the cut or not...your track will be listed for all to hear, and comment on. To top it all off, you'll get to network with and give feedback to all the users that are part of our music network!! Every month we'll choose the best submissions and invite them to perform at our event. ****NOTE-----Make sure your submission is made public so others can hear what you got!!.... Don't forget - I do Music happens Every 1st Thursday at Apache Cafe, Atl. For More information please visit www.idomusiconline.com!!!

Here's a brief tutorial on how to use the I dO Music Submission Community on www.SoundCloud.com to your benefit.

Step 1) Upload and Send us Up to 5 Tracks Per Month

Step 2) Follow I dO MUSIC COMMUNITY - This is the ONLY Way
to hear and comment on all the submissions we get for I dO
MUSIC

Step 3) Leave Comments directly on tracks you like or leave feedback for other artists

Step 4) Send a Message to us or any artist directly!

Step 5) View Your Stats and receive a breakdown on comments, plays, even track comparisons.

AND MUCH MUCH MORE!

Click here to submit Today!

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Jumpin' Out The Windows...

9 Reasons Why I Switched from Windows PC to Apple Mac:

1. Low Maintenance = High Productivity - No defragmenting, No virus scans, No scheduled maintenance! Overall apple users enjoy the benefit of using their computer without having to worry about most of the maintenance issues a windows user would generally have to worry about. You can really just open the box and get right to work!

2. No Viruses!!! No Viruses!!! No Viruses!!! - The peace of mind of not having to worry about getting a virus, (especially if you're downloading and sharing programs and music like most people), is priceless. Also, nothing erks me more than Norton Anti-virus popping up in the middle of my Protools sessions. ugh!

3. Better/Seamless Relationship Between Hardware & Software - Apple controls every aspect of their system's hardware and software developement! Even third party software developers have to get their software approved by Apple before they can legally launch a program for OS X.

4. Clean/Simple Look & Feel - You could call me shallow all you want but Mac's look so much more cleaner and are so much simpler in terms of finding files and functions on your system. Their finder window function lets you type in a few words and search the entire system for what your looking for (whether it's a file or a deleted email, you'll be able to find it here)

5. Apple is so much more Advanced!!! - In the world of technology, Apple is definitely ahead of the pack. Their iphone, ipod touch, macs, and itunes music store have broken all the rules and set all the standard for modern technology. From their magnetic power cord (just in case you trip over the cord your computer won't come crashing down to the ground), to the keyboard's built-in ambient light detector (the display and back-lit keyboard changes intensity in response to room lighting), Apple just seems to be so much smarter about the way they do things.

6. More Convenient - With one, two, three, and four finger preset finger swipes on the touch pad you can accomplish so much with little effort and time. Truly amazing when you experience it. It's super easy and user-friendly!!!

7. Drag & Drop! - Mostly everything from installing and uninstalling to moving and rearranging files is simply a drag and drop situation on a mac. On a PC, the same functions would take a handful of necessary steps.

8. Layout & Smoothness of Operation - Apple does a great job in making their systems so smooth. For instance, Apple hides most of its operating system's complexities and does most of the common sense functions automatically (i.e. searches for and chooses the fastest Internet connection for you automatically). Also, their file breakdown and layout is so straight forward your baby brother could figure it out! (Comes in handy when searching for old beats, songs, or Protools files)

9. Better/Smarter Programs - Apple applies the same common sense, usability, and simplicity to their software. With Apple, usually if you can think of it, you can do it...and it'll be relatively easy! With programs like iWork, Protools, Logic, Garageband, ilife, ichat, and iMail that rivals Windows' Micorsoft Office, Adobe Audition. Sonar, Sound Forge, etc...to me Mac wins easily!

Don't just take my word for it, check it out for yourself! To get a better idea of the main differences between a Mac and a PC check out these links:
http://www.tweakheadz.com/Mac_vs_Pc_DAWS.htm

http://www.pc.com/learn/beforeyoubuy/establishyourneeds/macvspc

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1016554/mac_vs_pc_which_is_the_better_platform.html

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An "Amazing" License

If you came out to I dO MUSIC then you have been schooled to the art of licensing. All you can do is sit back and smirk at the artists and corporate relationships that come together through proper placements. Megastar Kayne West has made his latest move on the hardwood with the NBA.






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Who's in The Studio?

In Studio 995

After the 2008 major-label debut, of SELF-MADE, Atlanta rapper Rocko is back in the studio hard at work on more hits. Rocko was in Studio B at PatchWerk working with engineer Mike “Snotty” Miller, assisted by Tripp Tiller.

Drumma Boy, who produced Rocko’s first hit “Umma Do Me” was also in PatchWerk this past March. In for a couple days, Drumma Boy, knocked out tracks with PatchWerk engineer Kori Anders, assisted by Dee Brown.

Amerie recently revealed that she has been recording new music for her upcoming release Break Ups to Make Ups, and that a summer July/June release date is confirmed, with a possible 1st single in April. Amerie stopped through PatchWerk to work with Producers Sean Garrett, Shondrae “Bangladesh” Crawford, and Eric Hudson. Sources say it will be also expecting contributions from Christopher "Tricky", Stewart, DJ Toomp, Warryn Campbell, No I.D., Will.I.Am, Cool & Dre, Dallas Austin, Justice League, L.O.S. Da Maestro, Salaam Remi and Eivan "Ricco" Bj . It will be executive produced by Bryan Michael Cox.

Sean Garrett, in addition to working with Amerie, was also in PatchWerk working on tracks for Fantasia. Sessions were engineered by Miles Walker and assisted by Mike “Snotty” Miller.

Bangladesh was in working on tracks for Rihanna with his session engineered by Kori Anders.

Other sessions in 995 included those for Letoya Luckett T-Boz, Mario, Tha Bizness, Yung Gutta, Lil Ru, Alley Mob Bosses, Rah Fontaine, OJ, Wease, Amiyj, 2 Da Relaness, Nefarious Sound, Bro Dash, Azin, Fast Lane Money, Chuck, Young FA

In Studio 9000

Ludacris is working in part with Leslie Brathwaite having songs mixed at PatchWerk Studios. Ludacris’ Battle of the Sexes is the upcoming collaboration album between Ludacris & Shawnna. It will be the seventh studio album released by Ludacris and the third released by Shawnna. The album is set to be released in Summer 2009. Theater of the Mind 2, Luda’s solo project, is also slated for a 2009 Release.

Rick Ross studio album was set to be release on March 24, 2009 however it was pushed back, much like his previous album Trilla, due to a lukewarm response to the first single. It is now scheduled to be release on April 21st, 2009. The album is set to be released under his own label, Maybach Music Group. Currently he is having records mixed by Leslie Brathwaite at PatchWerk Studios.

Kawan “KP” Prather & Malay of Ghet-O-Vision brought to work with them a couple of artists , Kentrell and Mike Finley. Both artists’ sessions were produced by Malay and Mixed by Leslie Brathwaite with assistance from Mike Pratt.

Gucci Mane was also in PatchWerk working with Producers Nitty, Juicy J of Three Six Mafia and Drumma Boy. All Gucci’s sessions were engineered by Kori Anders.

Other sessions in 9000 included those for Akon, Rocko, Rock City, Spud, Verse, Young Gator, The Obstacles.


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I Am Not A FAN!

Almost everyday I get a dozen emails from artists that I do not know asking me to "request this song" or "download that track" - I'm sure this happens to you as well right? My question to them is... "now why in the world would I want to do that??" lol - But honestly, as artists, when trying to build a fanbase for yourself it is crucial that you understand the process people generally go through in becoming a fan. And by fan, I mean "DIE HARD" - someone that WILL download your music, request you on their local radio station, buy your album, and come to all your shows.

The fact of the matter is too many artist are making fan-type request on people that they just haven't taken the time to make fans of their music. No! - I will not download or request your music if you haven't given me a reason to! No I will not join your email list! No, I will not follow you on Twitter or check out your Myspace page...IF YOU HAVEN'T GIVEN ME A REASON TO! And I can assure you that no one else will either, unless you take the time to build a relationship with them. This is true especially in the beginning of your career when your a new artist with little or no fan base at all. As you gain more popularity it gets somewhat harder to hold a real conversation with a fan but as an "up and commer" this should actually be your edge. Ludacris and Jay-Z don't have time to sit down and personally answer every email they get from a potential fan...you do! Keri Hilson doesn't have the mind capacity to remember fans and call on them by name...you do! Use this to your benefit. The difference between artists that go on to build lucrative, long lasting careers and artist that spend a lifetime making premature requests on people who could care less about what they're doing is effort. Make an effort to be personable, warm, and honest, and your fans will reciprocate.

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Think "Inside" The Box...

Imagine making thousands of dollars performing for hundreds of thousands of screaming, fans, selling a ton of music, and doing post-concert Q&A's with die hard followers...now imagine making "real" money doing all that without leaving your desk top computer. Just when we thought we've seen it all technology proves to us that there are no limits to what we can do!!! If you haven't heard, an online virtual world called "Second Life", is helping artist do all that and some! Second life resembles the more popular "Sims" PC game but allows users to do soooo much more....even make real world cash. Yup! You heard me!! Virtual celebrities are turning virtual cash into "dollars" just like you would a euro or franc. Even professional musicians are catching on to this new revenue stream...just ask 50Cent. It's unbelievable!!! You have to see it for yourself.

Click here to read the full story on CNN


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How To Create A Traffic Jam

How do you turn initial curiosity into growing, long lasting interest? The answer is content. Always giving just enough to come back for more. The importance of Building A Relationship is aforce that should not be taken lightly. The websites that prove to be most effective include:

• Biographical information
• Tour schedules
• A forum where fans can converse and exchange messages
• Current news about the artist
• An email option for fans, allowing them to send messages to the artist
• Info regarding purchase of recordings
• Audio clips of old songs and sneak previews of works in progress
• Video clips of the artist
• Links to other sites of interest for fans
• SONG LYRICS
• Separate page and e-mail option for bookings and the press

Knowing a site is updated constantly will definitely peek the visitors interest. Offering tidbits of information unavailable anywhere else.

• Rare photographs
• Contest, with prizes such as meet and greet
• Tickets to a performance with a gas card(LOL!)
• Exclusive downloads or streams of works in progress or remixes

When you are the artist the perception can become cloudy. Put yourself in the shoes of the visitor. Utilizing any of these ideas can lead to a nice response. I'm talking Fail Whale action!(Twitter Heads know what I mean!)

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I dO MUSIC Photos - April 2009 Edition

I dO MUSIC Photos - April 2009 Edition





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Social Networking Sites

I am convinced that every one in the world has a myspace page. I think its impossible to be considered an entertainer and not have a social networking site to view. Interested parties should be able to simply type your name and click. Its important to get outside the box with your networking. There is more to offer online then myspace and facebook. Take the time to check each of these sites out and stay connected!

AmieStreet.com - A social network and music marketplace for indie artists. They give the artists 70% of the sale.

AnyGig.com - A place for musicians to get listed for small gigs, or find venues to play at.

Artistopia.com - An online venue for performers to give themselves an online presence with a profile and display their work.

BandBuzz.com - A social network where artists can set up a profile, upload their music and get reviewed and recommended by users.

BandChemistry.com - A site for musicians to find new members for their group or form a whole new band.

Bandwagon.co.uk - A social network for lovers of indie music where the bands can sell mobile content such as ringtones and wallpapers.

ChampionSound.com - Free mailing list manager for artists, promoters, and venues.

Elisteningpost.com - A way for musicians to upload their music and sell it just about anywhere they want such as MySpace and Facebook.

FireGigs.com - A site with the aim of promoting unsigned bands by arranging to get their music to be played in the background at cafes, coffee shops and more. Also promote you through a Facebook app and MySpace widget.

Fuzz.com - Lets performers upload their music sell it, as well as manage mailing lists and more.

HumbleVoice.com - A place for all types of independent artists, including musicians, to upload their work and promote it.

iJamr.com - Indie musicians upload their music and bloggers can display your songs on their sites for free, and if a sale is made, they blogger gets a cut.

Indistr.com - A company letting independent artists sell their music directly to the public and the musicians receive 75% of the sale.

mTraks.com - An online marketplace and network for indie artists to promote and sell their music.

Mubito.com - Allows you to set up a band website easily and sell MP3s. Two levels of stores with one of them being free.

Musicane.com - Promote and sell your music and ringtones.

MusicNation.com - A community of musician profile pages that engage regularly in competition for various prizes.

Myspace- A community for the artist and fans to interact

Panjea.com - Bring all your clips from the web together and put them in to one player so they take up less space on your page, so you can promote all your music easily.

PocketFuzz.com - A place for musicians to sell ringtones of their works and notify their fans of news via mobiles.

Popfolio.net - A music widget provider for blogs that lets independent musicians upload their songs for inclusion, and possible sales.

PumpAudio.com - A service for indie artists to get their music licensed for television and film.

ReverbNation - A site created for artist to manage other online profiles as well and various options to sell music.

Ripple9.com - A site to help bands promote themselves on mobile devices to their fans. New sign-ups are frozen while they are being purchased by Google.

Scriggleit.com - Software you can use on a laptop at your merchandise table so people can sign up for your mailing list.

SessionSound.com - A site for independent musicians to try to stay indie by selling their music online.

Sonicbids.com - Allows you to construct a low cost electronic press kit that can be constantly updated so the recipients always get the latest version.

Unsigned.com - A site for unsigned bands to put up a profile page and host a playlist of MP3s to attract new listeners.

New sites are created daily. If you don't see your network on here please leave a comment listing the address and service.


Don't forget to come out and experience "I do Music" for yourself on the 1ST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH!




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