Marketing Your Releases: Old and New

Marketing Music: Old and New

There are many great discs out there, and many to come. Here are some tips on how and why to market both.





New Releases

It is wise to start your plan well in advance of release date. Say, 3 months minimum. Why? Well, there are many reasons and I’ll just name a few:



There is the remote chance that your CD will be reviewed by traditional media (magazines). If so, their lead time is 3-4 months. Regardless of whether you get the review or not, you don’t want it to be based on your missing a deadline.
You want to get your CD to radio at least one week before release date. I recommend 3 weeks, as the music directors have tons of CDs to look through to find yours.
All of your materials should be approved, prepared and ready to go when the release hits. This includes:
Media Release About the CD

Hi Resolution Photos

One-Sheet

Artist Bio

Radio Drops

Tour schedule with all details filled in (time, date, cost, etc)

MP3’s of all tracks

MP3’s of singles

Physical Copies of Discs (50 min) if you plan to press

Your interview schedule (times you are available) and what you are/are not willing to do

Website complete with purchase options and links to all Blogs, Social Networking Sites, etc.

EPK for download on your Website

Story angles and pitches

Quote Sheet of previous reviews and any press clippings in pdf form





So, as you can see, it can take some time to pull this all together. Don’t be caught releasing your next disc without being prepared.



Old Music

It’s kind of harsh and also somewhat of a misconception to use the words “old music.” I mean, in today’s day and age of digital downloads and very few record stores, nothing is really “old.” And at the same time, things move so fast that everything is “old”! However, let’s, for the sake of argument, call any CD released more than 8-12 months ago, “old.”



Older releases which were never marketed properly upon the release do have a chance to gain airplay and media attention. Is it the same process or plan as new releases? Yes and no. I say yes because the list of items you need to have prepared in order to launch your campaign is the same as #3 above. I say no because there is no sense of urgency to marketing older releases. The chances of your getting reviews in magazines are slim to none. The chances of you charting on radio are slim to none. So, what can you do? A lot.



Older releases can be pushed very much in the same way as new releases, especially if this is your “current” release. Many artists take years between recordings, but that doesn’t mean they stop working on their “current” release. Here are some ideas for working with older music:



Pick a new track that has never been pushed and work it at internet radio. You may think that internet radio is unimportant, but it is the fastest growing radio market. In addition, internet stations can and will help your cross promote on the web via their sites and social networking sites.



Work a few tracks at once. Why not? There really is no “single” on older releases, so go for it!



Make friends with webzines and podcasters. They are much less picky about “release” dates. And again, they can help you cross promote.



Tour and play songs from the release. Yes, you make be sick of them, you make have new material you like better, etc. but you want to sell merchandise. So, play the music on your CD and let everyone know that they can buy it there.



Offer incentives- offer a free download of a never before released track with the purchase of the disc. If you are selling physical copies, offer something as well- a piece of merchandise or the download.



Be realistic- the goal with older releases should be to deplete your inventory if you have physical discs, or to reach a target you personally set for digital releases. So the strategy is really inbound marketing- cultivating your fan base, growing it to support your music.



Your second strategy/purpose is to create an awareness of the band so that with the next release you already have a foundation.



Don’t confuse the issue: Posting videos on YouTube of you performing new material while you are trying to sell older material? Umm… bad idea. Keep everything focused on what you are trying to accomplish.

Good luck!

PTE/Universal's ABM Talks to Skope! Tons of Locations to Buy New T.O.N.E-z CD!

Read about ABM's conversation with SKOPE here!
http://skopemag.com/2010/11/02/abm-opens-stoli-up-to-the-platinum-trini-sound

Can't find T.O.N.E-z' new disc... here are tons of links for music and ringtones!

http://www.apple.com/itunes/ (Music and Video Download)

http://www.shockhound.com/
http://www.napster.com/index.html?darwin_ttl=1257889413&darwin=s1009beta
http://www.rhapsody.com/home.html
http://www.emusic.com/
http://www.mndigital.com/
http://mp3.walmart.com/store/home
http://www.djdownload.com/
http://www.djmrmusicdownload.com/
http://www.juno.co.uk/
http://us.puretracks.com/content/viewer.aspx?cid=GlobalNav_Home
http://www.247entertainment.com/
http://www.7digital.com/
http://www.amazon.com/
http://amiestreet.com/
http://www.boostmobile.com/
http://www.dancetracksdigital.com/
http://www.djtunes.com/
http://www.fnac.com/
http://www.funmobility.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.groovemobile.com/
http://www.ilike.com/
http://www.imeem.com/ (Music and Video Download)

junketboy http://www.junketboy.com/
http://www.lala.com/
http://www.last.fm/ (Music and Video download)
https://www.masterbeat.com/
https://www.mixedupmusic.com/
http://www.modsystems.com/
http://www.mspot.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.zune.net/en-US/
http://www.myspace.com/(Music and Video download)
http://www.boostmobile.com/
http://www.pocketgroup.co.uk/
http://www.slacker.com/
Spotify http://www.spotify.com/en/
http://www.sprint.com/index.html
http://www.thumbplay.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.touchtunes.com/
http://www.we7.com/#/
http://www.xlr8mobile.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.9squared.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.verisign.com/c/index.html (RINGTONE)
http://www.hudson.co.jp/index.html (RINGTONE)
http://www.jamster.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.mobilestreams.com/ (RINGTONE)
http://www.modtones.com/ (RINGTONE)

http://gotvnetworks.com/ (Video download)

http://www.vidzone.tv/ (Video download)

http://www.youtube.com/ (Video download)

T.O.N.E-z New Video for "Gotta Make This Happen" Featuring Marka on YouTube Now!

Another great track from T.O.N.E-z! Please comment and share!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpfA_8AxO5s

Hip Hop Artist T.O.N.E-z Ready to Conquer the Mainstream with New Release!

Emmy Nominated Artist Shows Lyrical and Rhythmic Mastery on EP Available Now!

T.O.N.E-z, the Emmy nominated hip hop artist who has had years of underground success, is now gaining momentum in the mainstream music world. While he has already an amassed an impressive recording history with an array of musical projects, T.O.N.E-z is poised to expand his exposure and reach new audiences with the October 12 release of “The Lime Light: The Warm Up EP” on PTE/Universal, to be followed in 2011 by a full length release, “The Lime Light.” The new music from T.O.N.E-z is expected to continue the tradition of his incisive lyrical depth and pulsing rhythms. “The Lime Light: The Warm Up EP” will also feature some new twists and collaborations, showcasing the diversity of T.O.N.E-z’s talents.

T.O.N.E-z’s career has been heading steadily and strongly forward over the past several months. Earlier this year, he was nominated for an Emmy Award in the Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music category for the song, “Long Hard Times to Come.” The song, which serves as the theme for the television program Justified on FX Networks, was an instant hit, and the honor made T.O.N.E-z the first rapper ever nominated in this Emmy category, solidifying his place in musical history. Performed by Gangstagrass, written by T.O.N.E-z and Gangstagrass founder Rench, the YouTube promo video for the song continues to gain hits well into the hundreds of thousands and Sony is including a video for the song in the Justified Box Set, due out this winter.

T.O.N.E-z has enjoyed an impressive musical career that intertwines with the origins of hip hop. He was signed with Select Records in the early 1990’s, the label that has produced artists such as Chubb Rock, Kid N’ Play, and M.O.P. Using the alias “Style,” his first record was entitled "In Tone We Trust." He also released two singles, “The Assassinator,” and “What a Brother Know.” Previously, T.O.N.E-z was featured alongside Denzel Washington and Tom Hanks in the movie, Philadelphia, and is one of the most popular artists in the world of mix tapes. And for T.O.N.E-z, it’s all in the family. His prolific musical family includes brothers Special K, formerly of the Treacherous Three, and T La Rock.

To purchase “The Lime Light: The Warm Up EP,” please visit itunes.com, amazon.com, or any online retailer. For more information about T.O.N.E.-z, concert dates, music, and other online content, please go to: http://www.myspace.com/tonezworld.
For media inquiries, please contact Laurena Marrone at Grit PR & Promotion, 503.887.2644 or email gritpr@gmail.com

T.O.N.E-z Live Today on World Vibe Radio's Midday Maddness Show!

Listen to T.O.N.E-z live TODAY on World Vibe Radio today during Foxy Lady's Show Midday Maddness! Midday Madness Radio airs live Mondays from Noon - 3p C.S.T.
www.wvrvibe.com
World Vibe Radio 1
www.wvrvibe.com

T.O.N.E-z connects with DJ Foxy Lady today live to talk about his new projects, Gangstagrass and more. Tune in and enjoy!

Interview with Pro Boxer and IBF Holder Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi

I recently had the honor of interviewing renowned boxer Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi. I was very much looking forward to this interview for many reasons. First, I am from Brooklyn, so I support my home town heroes vehemently from afar. Secondly, his personality in the ring and mere presence on television are so strong, that I was curious to see if that cocky attitude would come across in the interview.

But I have to say, Paulie was incredibly honest and humble. I was almost stunned by his answers and I think that there is a remarkable depth and sense of self to Paulie. If more boxers knew how to put on a show but also reveal their true selves as Paulie did, this would be an even greater sport. Thank you, Paulie.

And yes... I did reply to his question for me about Amir Khan!

INTERVIEW WITH PAULIE "MAGIC MAN" MAGNAGGI

1. How would you best describe your boxing style? Do you feel that your style developed early on in your training or has evolved over time? I would consider my self a slick boxer, this is the sport of boxing. So, I like to box and move. You always evolve in this sport, you can only keep learning and changing different things as you go along.

2. Do you sense a renewed and greater interest in boxing now than in recent years? If so, do you attribute this to the incredible star-like popularity of Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather or to just trends in what people like/follow sports-wise over the years?

Honestly, not sure if boxing has a renewed interest, hopefully it changes.

3. What has been your most memorable fight and why?

Probably the Cotto fight has to be my most memorable fight, but also winning the IBF belt as well. The Cotto was just the highlight of my career, it put Malignaggi on the map. It had a great crowd, great atmosphere, I won't forget that day.

4. Is there anyone you have not fought that you would like to fight? Everyone knows Paulie Malignaggi will fight anyone, I always stepped up to the plate.

5. Did you expect Amir Khan to be such a strong opponent?

Personally, I was a bit surprised so I am curious to know what you thought. He was just a great opponent period, just had skills. He's an all around fighter, that will go far in this sport.

6. You can’t deny that you are somewhat of a polarizing “personality” in boxing. People seem to love or hate you; oddly enough more based on your choice of fashion, your vibrant personality and persona in the ring. Are you just being you or do you deliberately want to bring this element to boxing?

That's just me being me, I have fun with this sport, if you can't enjoy what your doing, no sense of doing it. If people dislike me, then I accept that, it comes with the territory.

7. Do you have any fights scheduled for the near future?

Nothing right now, shooting towards the end of the year, possibly in Italy. I'm filming a movie right now and that has my focus.

8. Any last words or anything you’d like to share with the public?

I'd like to thank everyone for supporting me, and standing behind me 100 percent! I've got the best fans in the world. Also check out my website www.officialmalignaggi.com and follow me on twitter!!! twitter.com/paulmalignaggi

Terry Currier's Record Store Insights!

We recently had the pleasure of an interview with Terry Currier of Music Millennium, who graciously agreed to answer questions on the changing state of the music industry and the status of indie music. The Portland, OR. based record store is the oldest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest, and not just a local favorite! SPIN Magazine ranked it the 9th Best Indie Record Store in America, and Paste Magazine named it one of the Coolest Record Stores in America. In anticipation of the Independent Music Conference in MA in November, we asked Terry about his extensive experience selling music and what indie artists can and should be doing. The IMC is an opportunity for indie artists to gather and learn from both each other and industry professionals. Workshops, lectures, and performances, will help independent musicians learn how to promote themselves and create the opportunities they need to succeed.

1. How have you managed to stay open and thrive in the midst of the virtual collapse of all retail outlets, both large and small?

It has not been easy. Business has continued to be on the slide since 2001. The past two years have been the toughest as not only are we dealing with the problems faced by the industry but the economy really hit us and other record music stores hard. There were 7500 record stores in the country in 2002 and less than 2000 today. One of the big problems with today’s landscape of music retail is that almost 80% of the business is being done in the big box retail stores like Wall-Mart, Best Buy and Target. Only 20% of the physical goods business is being done in record store. This is the opposite of what was being done in the mid-70's when the industry was thriving. 80% of the business is being done by people who really don't have any passionate people working on the floor and turning people on to all the great music that still comes out. Most physical music consumers do not go away from those places remembering a good music experience...they definitely are not getting turned onto music there.

2. How familiar are you with the Independent Music Conference?(http://www.imc2010.com/) ? I've heard it is a great place for artists to get a good education on getting their music out to the world. That’s so important and I am glad that there are people who want to share their expertise directly with the musician.

3. Have you noticed any recent trends? For example, are people coming back around, so to speak, to wanting something tangible (ie: CDs, Vinyl, etc)

Vinyl is seeing some revival. Some young music fans are getting into vinyl in a good way. They may have never bought a CD or may digitally download their music but they love the realness of vinyl. CDs should be doing better than they are as prices have dropped quite a bit in recent years, especially on catalog CDs. You can get Ramones classic titles for $7.99....that's a steal! The industry has not done a good job of exploiting this fact to consumers. There are so many great CDs that are cheaper to get than buying the digital album so why are CDs not doing better?

4. What is the percentage of your online sales vs. in-store sales?
Online sales are only about 1% of our business for new product. For used it is about 5%. We have had an online store for over 10 years but it's hard to compete with Amazon , who really has a big lock on the physical goods in the recorded music industry. We have to remember they were spending as much as $15 per CD sold in the beginning to promote what they were doing. They lost tons of money for those first 5 years doing that but they built a brand that a great deal of consumers think of when they think about buying physical recorded music.

5. You still do wonderful things like in-stores and artist promotions. Have you noticed a change in attendance, do you see these appearances impact sales, and how do you select the artists you feature?

We pioneered live music in a record store in 1989 when we put in a permanent stage with a sound system. In 1995 we moved our second location in to a location with live music a main focus of the design. We were doing over 300 live performances a year there. We were forced to shut that location 3 years ago due to rising rents. We still do about 150 performances a year at this location . With the layout of the multi-room store, we can only accommodate up to 250 people to see a performance and that is sardine snug but still a great intimate experience for music fans. Most of the instore performances are not that large as we do a lot of upcoming artists, both local and national. Some instores really help sell product. We have noticed that a certain younger demo that is attracted to some of the performances don't. In many cases they may be digital downloaders and don't buy physical goods. Then there are others where the younger demo will buy the artist on vinyl. We did a street date instore performance with Menomena, a great Portland band on Barsuk Records. We sold 41 Vinyl and 83 CDs that day. That meant about every other person bought something....that is great success for an instore. The most interesting fact to me in that equation is the fact that we sold 1 vinyl to every 2 CDs sold. That is a bright spot to see.

6. Can true Indie artists (self-released) get their product into your store? How?

We really try to back the indie artist all we can. We will take any title in on consignment. We go the extra mile for local artist especially. It's hard for an unknown artist in Pennsylvania to sell in our store if they are not doing something to create a story here in our town so it doesn't make sense to put product in our store all the time. If you are going to tour through here or you get some press in the area (or a national press outlet) by all means you should try to put a few pieces in the store. We will do an instore with a totally unknown band if we like their music. It's important that the artist is trying to do all they can to create a fan base in the area. It doesn't do a lot of good to go through the motions of setting up a live performance in the store for us or the artist if no one is going to come. We will always do what we can on our end and send out press releases to all the local media, twitter, Facebook, displays, etc. However there has to be a compelling reason to get people to make a detour in their lives to come see you. Artists have to remember that great music is not going to get people off their rears unless the people have heard it or someone they believe in endorses it.

7. Any suggestions you have for indie musicians regarding the current state of retail, dealing with stores, and getting their product out there?

I always say that an artist needs to draw a circle with their home-base/fan-base in the center. Once you have done a good job of getting the word out and building that core fan-base you can make that circle bigger by expanding your live shows to other towns, possibly states and growing your fan-base. With modern technology you can also so this on the internet. The music is always the most important piece of the equation. You have to have something that is good and that you really believe in. Do your music because of the music. You then have to look at your musical career as a job and you have to put time into it. You need to learn for others who have done this before and try to learn as much as you can and avoid the pitfalls they may have gone through to get to this point. You need to surround yourself with people that can help you. Not all artists are capable of promoting themselves, managing themselves, putting together their first recorded music project, etc. I bet most have enthusiastic friends or fans that can help them. After building up a following they may even find professionals who want to work with them or professionals they can now afford to help them get press, do marketing, etc.

Thanks to Terry Currier of Music Millennium for taking the time to share his experience! Check out the Independent Music Conference, where people will be gathering to do exactly this: learn from the experts how to make 'indie' a positive and not a negative. We'll be doing more interviews on the same theme and posting them over here, so don't forget to check back there for more industry insights. And for those of you living in Portland, there's a bus, bike, or car waiting to take you to 3158 E. Burnside.

Laurena Selected as the 2010 Independent Music Conference Publicist

GRIT is thrilled to announce that Laurena Marrone Campos has been selected as the official publicist for the 2010 Independent Music Conference! In addition to handling the PR for the conference, she will also offer a workshop for musicians and participate in the music industry panels, representing Indie PR & Promotion. To give a little taste of what is to come, Laurena asked Noel Ramos, Executive Director of the Independence Music Conference, a few questions about independent music and what makes the IMC different and beneficial for you.

Laurena: Give us a brief history of the IMC, please.

Noel: I spent years working with other music conferences, and I found a large number of problems with them. Most notable was the "showcase for us and you might get signed" hype that many of them used to entice musicians to pay $25 to $40 as a "showcase application fee." In truth, no act ever got signed after playing one gig at one music conference. Over the last three decades, hundreds of thousands of bands have "showcased," so if their claims were true, there should have been tens of thousands of signings as a result of all those conference "showcases."

The baloney used to cajole artists into submitting an "application" created an ethos in the music industry like no other profession. Do Teachers, Doctors, Lawyers etc. attend their annual conferences with no other goal in mind than to party, hang out in bars and completely avoid the actual workshops? No, those professionals attend their annual gatherings to learn, network and advance their respective disciplines. I founded the Independent Music Conference as a true professional industry conference for the new independent music market, which I have been heavily involved in since the earliest days of its creation.

The IMC's Mission Statement reads as follows...

The Independent Music Conference seeks first and foremost to help independent musicians achieve their goals as entrepreneurial business owners through the presentation of educational seminars, workshops, panel discussions, mentor sessions networking opportunities, performance instruction, evaluation and critique, and live performances. Secondarily, the IMC seeks to positively affect the entire music conference industry, which for too long, has not presented true professional conferences to the music industry in keeping with standards set by other professions. The IMC seeks to alter the erroneous perceptions of conferences as "festivals," "gigs," and "concerts." The main purposes of any worthwhile industry conference should focus on education and networking. At the Independent Music Conference, musicians are treated like any other professional business person, and by setting a higher standard for music conferences in general, the IMC helps encourage and promote the profession of music to the benefit of all.

Laurena: What do you feel are the top 3 things that set IMC apart from other music conferences?

Noel:
1.) No "showcases," "showcase application fees" or "selections." We charge an extremely low registration fee, that's it. There are no other fees to attend, learn and perform at the IMC. All registrants are encouraged to perform and slots are filled on a first-come first served basis. There is no arbitrary, unrealistic "selection" process. Artists are not promised an audience of "industry people" and no wild claims are made about the performance aspect of the event. Our focus is where it should be, on the education and networking.

2.) Our fee is the lowest, and our conference is the most fully packed with workshops, panels, seminars, mentor sessions, performance instruction and critique, networking opportunities and more. The IMC costs as little as $35 for four full days and nights of intensive education. For the last seven years and 11 events The IMC has consistently attracted over 100 of the most experienced, accessible and knowledgeable industry instructors in the independent music business.

3.) Our track record of credibility. Since 2003 The IMC has persevered using the very same indie methodologies that we teach. For 7 years and more than 11 events The IMC has overcome the same obstacles our attendees face, survived, grown, and expanded into cities all over the country. What we offer is clearly worthwhile, and needed by the serious, professional independent musicians who attend. Most conferences see less than 10% of their registrants actually attending the workshops, but at the IMC we consistently see between 75% - 90%! The core values driving the IMC are, honesty, integrity, courage, commitment, dedication, motivation, inspiration, and perspiration. We strive to educate by example, and remain flexible and adaptive, always seeking to be cutting edge, and present information, contacts, resources and services which are aimed at the future, but rooted in reality.

Laurena: Historically, where have most of the musicians who attend come from (mostly the NE or all over, etc)? Any international participants?

Noel: We have always drawn a significant number of attendees from great distances! Since its inception the IMC has been a truly national conference, with attendees traveling from all over the United States, and from as far away as Canada, Australia, Iceland, Japan and Europe.

Laurena: Media has really exploded over the past year. How will the IMC help to educate musicians as to how to keep up with it all?

Noel: In the 90s, I founded the very first email discussion group for independent music on the web. Since the late 80s I've been a trailblazer for the independent music market, and as an early adopter, I used the internet to promote and advance the industry, helping it grow from a handful of artists and businesses into a multi-billion dollar, global industry. The IMC has always been on the cutting edge of the internet and new technologies. We have long been teaching the techniques, tactics, tips and methods for utilizing social networking sites as well as all other effective technologies that indies can use to their advantage. We help our attendees zero in on what works and what will only distract. In an age of media overload, sometimes less is more, and effectiveness is always key. Each IMC features a number of panels, workshops and mentor sessions specifically geared toward helping our attendees stay focused and make sense of it all.

Laurena: What can an unsigned indie artist expect to take away from the Conference?

Noel: Well we don't feel that "getting signed" was ever a truly viable business model. Therefore we don't invite "unsigned" artists, we invite independent entrepreneurs, who may or may not wish to sign a contract with a company that might serve as their "record label" dependent on any number of factors. So I'd say that's one of the most important take-aways right there... we help them define their business goals, and implement a plan to achieve them. None of our attendees are "UN" anything! They are "IN," as in independent, and even if they choose to enter into various contractual relationships to advance their career, they will still remain; INdependent, IN charge, IN control, INspired and INvincible!

Laurena: What made you decide against paid "showcases"? About how many artists will be performing and at how many venues?

Noel: I detailed most of my reasons in my answer to question no.1, but let me add that I call it the "S-word" because to me it's become much like a curse word that represents all that was wrong with the music conference industry. Over the years, "showcases" have been at the root of all the dissatisfaction, unrealistic expectations, missed opportunities and in many cases blatant scams that have plagued the events that SHOULD have been professional industry gatherings, not an excuse to exploit the musicians.

At IMC2010, we expect to have well over 100 performances. We currently have 5 stages confirmed. Other venues may confirm their involvement, which will increase our capacity for more shows. I'd like to have as many as 150 performances occurring over 4 nights at the hotel itself and throughout Northampton.

Laurena: How do the sponsors interact with the participants, what is their role?

Noel: Sponsors are the life-blood of the IMC, more so than any other conference, because in the independent music industry, we all wear many hats, so our sponsors are also instructors, staff members, volunteers, Mentors, Panelists, performers and more. The IMC has been extremely fortunate to have the support of a large number of key industry people who have been with us since the very beginning. Their contributions of time, money, goods and services, experience, knowledge, skill, networking and most importantly BELIEF and SUPPORT are what make each IMC as effective and successful as they have been.

Laurena: What should a musician do to make the most out of the conference?

Noel: I wrote an entire Primer on the subject, entitled appropriately, "How to Get the Most Out of Attending a Music Conference" and I invite musicians to download it for free:
http://intermixx.com/downloads

Laurena: What types of industry representatives take part in the conference? (DJs, label owners, distributors, etc)

Noel: Each IMC has featured a large number of industry attendees, more than most conferences, even those that are much larger and more expensive. Sometimes as many as 125 independent music industry people converge on the IMC, to teach, network, Mentor, instruct, critique, demonstrate their products and services, and contribute to the conference in many ways. They come from every corner of the market: Managers, Booking Agents, Venue Owners, Authors, Publicists, Media People, Recording Studio owners, Performance Coaches, Producers, Lawyers, Financial Experts, Technology Gurus, Internet pioneers, indie label owners, successful musicians, music organization owners, industry icons and famous performers and so many more...

Laurena: Are there any artists we may be familiar with scheduled to perform?

Noel: That's a topic we discuss actually! What is the new definition of "success?" Does an artist have to be "famous" in order to succeed? If "we" don't recognize their name, does that mean they are not famous, or successful, or... HAPPY? There are many artists scheduled to perform who are famous... to their fans, and in the new independent music market, that is more valid than you might imagine.

Laurena: Tell us how to register and if there's a limit on the number of registrations.

Noel: No limit! http://www.IMC2010.com, click the REGISTER link.

Laurena: Thank you!!

We'll post more news here as we move towards the Conference! If you like what you've heard, or just want an excuse to visit beautiful Massachusetts in the fall, head on over and check out the agenda.

Grit PR Expands Into the Athletic Arena

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!
August 4, 2010 -- Amateur and professional athletes looking for a publicist have a new option: independent PR firm Grit PR & Consulting LLC. Already an accomplished firm with clients like the Emmy-nominated musicians Gangstagrass, Grit PR is officially opening its doors to athletes, with a particular focus on boxers. The firm provides their clients with publicity, marketing, radio promotion, tour press, product launches, social networking and more.
"Our client base is so diverse that this is a natural expansion," said Laurena Marrone Campos, the firm's president. Representing music groups, fashion designers, and even clowns, Grit PR has already established a colorful clientele. Selecting athletics generally and boxers specifically was a natural next step for the firm. A boxer herself, Ms. Campos's love of the sport drove her to represent athletes hoping to establish a name for themselves in both the professional and amateur worlds. "I love the sport," Ms. Campos said, "I love the complexity, the challenge and the camaraderie."
This will undoubtedly be a boon for athletes as there are currently very few economical publicists in sports. Sports franchises Alive MMA and Jana Simms Boxing have already signed up, and more are expected soon. Interested candidates can contact Grit PR at gritpc@gmail.com, or call (503)887-2644. The firm is currently reviewing candidates for an introductory 3 month complimentary media and marketing campaign.
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Interview with Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist Patterson Regarding NOVA Fashion Week!

Interview with Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist Susan Patterson

1. What made you decide to participate in NOVA Fashion Week (NOVAFW) and how do you feel about the event concept and location overall?
I have always wanted to become involved in a community based event in my hometown region that was a good fit for my professional talents and cosmetics retail business, and that shared a passion for charity work. NOVAFW was that perfect opportunity that finally came along, and I jumped at the chance to be a part of a fast growing popular event that was very successful in its maiden run last year. I very much like the fact that this is run like good business plan which, as a business owner, I can really identify with! Best of all, their business focus is on raising money for worthy charities.

2. As an artist working with another artist (the designer), do you incorporate and/or suggest your own ideas for each model?
I definitely think that good collaboration between the clothing designer and the makeup/hair stylists is essential in pulling off a fabulous look for the model that shows the piece well on the runway. The designers are just as visual as the artists, so they often contribute great ideas that help build the budding concept into the best design achievement. It’s very much similar to the way a movie or TV series makeup/hair department is run. We will have production meetings with the director’s conceptual input on the character’s look that we incorporate in to our makeup designs. We then work up charting within the actor’s ability to carry off the look.

As the show’s makeup and hair department head, I have to have the best Key Makeup Artist on the line with the best makeup artists and assists working under her. My key on this event, Victoria Stiles, is a highly accomplished Virginia fashion/editorial/print makeup artist in her own right and fashion shows are one of her specialties. The hair stylists we bring in will also be working with us to bring the concept full circle in hair design.

3. Can you please tell me a little about your Emmy(s) and what that means to you as an artist?
It was a great honor to be nominated again, and this year for a National Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in Makeup Design. It was for special makeup effects on an Easter special shown on CBN-TV last year. My previous win was a Regional Team Emmy for a commercial for the ABC-TV regional series, Choose to Save. It also involved special makeup effects.

Just being nominated for Televisions’ highest award is a great achievement because it comes from your peers who are at the top of the craft, and who find your work worthy of this prestigious nod.

4. Is there a particular makeup line that you use/endorse?
Having worked in film and television for so many years you come to depend on high performance makeup that not only meets or exceeds the criteria of a long shoot day, but looks completely natural on or off the set, especially in HDTV. Graftobian Makeup and Natural Born Cosmetics are two of my staple lines that I use almost exclusively now because they meet my high standards for the work I have to do in HDTV. I particularly love the skin care from Natural Born, because it was formulated for very hyper-sensitive skins, like mine, so I am definitely a walking testimony to the effectiveness of this line. Good skin care is really crucial now for actors, especially those appearing in HD. It is now more about how good the skin is under makeup rather than how good the makeup looks on the skin! You can see more of the skin in high resolution (HD) than you ever could before, so actors are really having to step up their skin care with good products that really do work.

5. What are two things about you that the media doesn't know, but you wish they did?
Number 1: Our store, Paint and Powder Cosmetics was created nearly 6 years ago solely as a source of income for the charity we support in South Africa, called Baby Haven. All of the proceeds of our sales go to them in support of their work in saving the lives of abandoned and dying newborn aids babies and toddlers.

Number 2: I have been working with the military for the past 7 years utilizing my special makeup effects skills in helping to train military combat medics in casualty simulation. This is the most rewarding experience that I have been involved in, and it’s a tremendous feeling knowing you are using your skills towards an end that may directly help save a life on the battlefield! On a very personal side: as the wife of an Army Colonel, and the mom of two soldiers who served valiantly in Iraq, this is particularly meaningful to me, that I can serve my country this way.

Thank you to Suzanne, a kind and incredible artist. We wish you much continued success!

Why I Love Gangstagrass

Why I love Gangstagrass

As someone in the music business, I rarely get to express myself as a “fan.” I truly love all of my clients, and I am very grateful that they share their careers with me. They place their faith and trust in me and my small but dedicated little company and I do not take this for granted.

But, I can’t deny the fact that not only am I honored to work with Gangstagrass, I am a huge fan. It feels good to be a fan. I listen to their disc several times a day, know all the words, and it never gets old. Every time I listen, I get chills.

I have never been a fan of bluegrass, or of rap, for that matter, but this combination has renewed my absolute love and passion for music. As someone who was the first artist to fuse traditional Korean music with Flamenco, Gangstagrass holds a special place in my heart for taking such polar opposites and bringing them together in a way that is undeniably…. addictive. Brilliant. Groundbreaking.

I believe that they are truly deserving of the Emmy Nomination, and the win; as well as their place in the top 25 discs sold on CD Baby. There are many great CDs out there right now, and I listen to music all day (usually my clients) with enthusiasm and sincere admiration. But awe? Not too often.

Gangstagrass has shattered my belief that nothing truly “new” could be created musically. And perhaps many think that what they have created is not new. But to me, they have renewed my deep-seeded love for music, taught me to respect new musical genres, and above all, made me happy and excited to wake up every day at an ungodly hour to start my work, which I love, and listen to Lightning on the Strings, Thunder on the Mic.

Rench, T.O.N.E-Z, Tomasia and the other amazing musicians on this disc have created something that I believe will transcend the Emmys, the chart topping placements, the press, the radio and the bandwagon syndrome. Once you hop on, you’re not getting off.

Well, at least I’m not.

Thank you Gangtsagrass.

Interview with RAID (Rock Against Illegal Downloading)

Recently, I had the pleasure and honor to be interviewed by RAID, an organization I truly support as an advocate for the arts, and someone who would love to see more musicians survive from their work. You can read the interview here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rock-Against-Illegal-Downloading/124984257518159#!/notes/rock-against-illegal-downloading/raid-exclusive-interview-laurena-marrone-campos/141412185884063

Thank you to all at RAID for your hard work and attention to this issue!

The DIY Musician/Artist Craze... Does it Make Sense?

I just finished reading some DIY music books and articles for musicians. As a publicist, well, part publicist, mostly music advocate and tireless promoter of indie music, I found them to be... well, pretty much the same. There are so many books out there now that are designed, written or even "guaranteed" to teach or coach musicians about the art of the "business" side of the business that I would venture to guess that these books are selling way more than CDs these days.

I have read many of the books, and I feel that each has merit, some great ideas for musicians, and are typically worth the cost of the download or purchase. I admire and applaud many of the authors. However, one thing that many of the books fail to address is how the artist can do it all (implement all of these great ideas) while still remaining, well, artists. In the coming weeks, I will ask a diverse collection of music business professionals this question and more, and I am very much looking forward to that post.

I am not here to provide concrete answers to the questions. I, too, made my living as a working artist for over a decade. Was there one thing that enabled me to survive from my art? No. It was about consistency, dedication, perseverance, constantly pushing myself in new directions and creating newsworthy stories. It was humility, and the belief that I could not rest for one moment. It was a long, long road of determination and gratitude for each and every little accomplishment. It did not happen overnight. It happened over years.

I believe that great art and music comes from artists who spend the time on their craft, their passion, and the sharing of their work with the public through live performances.

With the fall of the retail world, major labels, many indie labels, magazines, and other resources that used to support and help to exposure musicians to fans, everyone is looking for the "magic bullet" that will propel their career to another level.

There are countless philosophies out there- 1,000 fans, free downloads, artists against free downloads, social networking, etc. and they all make strong arguments. Often times there are at least one or two valid points on all sides.

As someone who has been in the music business since the cassette and vinyl were the first items placed on my desk for every new release, my opinion is that there is no one path to success. There is no one philosophy or approach that will work for each and every artist. I have clients with a million fans who can't support themselves, artists who are virtually inactive with social networking who support themselves by touring almost year round, and those who believe that they deserve much more than I can accomplish for them.

I often tell my clients that PR alone will not sell their CDs or bring them fame or fortune. Often they are shocked, as if I am telling them it is not worth hiring me. And to be honest, if an artist is relying solely on a publicist to achieve results in the market today, my opinion is that this is a very poor use of your hard-earned income.

So, why do the professionals still exist if you can do it yourself; and countless people and books tell you that you can? Well, because unless you have an army of experienced, professional, knowledgeable people on your team who have access to all of the tools and contacts (and know how to treat those contacts), plus the countless amounts of time, persistence and dedication it takes to get you to stand out amongst the thousands of others, it is not possible.

And, to be honest, sometimes it is not possible with the help of the biggest or the best. Putting out a CD is not enough. You must have a story, a team, a plan, the dedication to touring and the commitment to supporting your team's efforts. A story that is compelling, not simply because you believe it is. I liken this to a new mother who looks at her newborn and thinks how amazing, how beautiful he/she is. I am sure that every new mother in the maternity ward is thinking the same thing!

Tens of thousands of CDs a pressed every day and I guarantee you that each and every one of those artists think that their music, their story, is unique, captivating... worthy. I understand, it is your "baby."

But the fact remains that even those artists signed to major recording contracts, who have had international exposure (a la "American Idol," for example) and every possible advantage on their side, still fail in their attempt for a comfortable life as an "artist."

So why did I go back to the business side of things? Because I have a passion for music and the arts that exceeds my own ego. Music and the arts have shaped my life, and giving back to others amidst a crumbling industry was a very easy career choice. I am still an artist, and I know that this part of me often creates relationships and connections with my clients that many cannot comprehend.

We are not a patient society. Sometimes results happen quickly. We expect that because we are a society of wanting things "NOW." And actually, I think that's generous. We are a society of wanting things "YESTERDAY." But more often than not, it is a series of small accomplishments made over a long period of time that lead to success. Because of our culture, this feels like an eternity....

Watch for my interview with a vast number of music industry professionals, from bloggers to DJs and editors from publications as small as webzines to the largest in the biz.

Art is the one thing that speaks to everyone. Art transcends time and ties us all together as the human race. (David Dory)

Interview with Scorpion Boxing Equipment CEO!

SCORPION BOXING EQUIPMENT: QUALITY WITH HEART

I had the pleasure of being introduced to Scoprion Boxing Equipment recently. As their presence grows throughout the world, their commitment to quality and passion for the support is genuine and refreshing. Thank you to Hassan Ahmed from Scorpion for being incredibly kind and responsive.

1. When did you start to make MMA and Boxing Equipment and Why?
In MMA and Boxing Equipment, one of the main things we focus on is leather hide. Our Grandfather was making leather in South Africa since 1925. My father was born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1935. He started this business in 1975. There was a good market in Italy, Spain and England, and in little time, we provided leather in Germany too. In the year 2000 we studied the Boxing Equipment market. This is my favorite game and also a rising sport. We started manufacturing in 2007 with the best of experience. My dream is to become a manufacturer to give people good quality and show off my vast experience and techniques.
2. Where are you located, and what are your top markets right now?
Our main office is in Germany and our production unit is in Pakistan as we committed to gave our customer good quality. We have Production Units in India and China to make good leather. As I already told you, leather is main thing for Boxing. We tested the waters in India and China water, but the result was not to our specification. A friend of my father suggested we try Pakistan Sialkot .I had heard a lot of things about this. The result is MMA flew. And now our main market is U.S.A, Europe, and Russia.
3. What sets your products apart from others available on the market?
We believe in quality-- A better Production Unit, advice from professional fighters on what they need and want, experience in leather and boxing equipment. We want to be the best in the world, not just U.S.A, Europe and Russia.
4. Do you plan to sponsor fighters and gyms to promote the Scorpion name?
Yes. Why not? This is great opportunity for the company to promote both fighter and gym. But we also say that it depends upon their quality and experience. If people like your products you will be successful.
5. We have been in contact for a short time now, what is your opinion of women in the sports of MMA and Boxing and do you think this is a growing market?
There is no difference between women and men. They are both equal in hard work, planning, faith, etc., so if men can fight in the ring, why shouldn’t woman do this? According to our experience in U.S.A, boxing is a good and growing market. U.S.A has had great boxers like Muhmmad Ali, Mike Tyson, Kelly Pavlik, and lots more, so why it is not a growing market?
6. What are your top selling products?
We sell lot of equipment. You can see our upcoming website or catalog. There are two categories-- American style and European style. In American style we have SP-4022, 4024, 4027, 4028, 4029. This is part of our regular base production design for American market.
7. Do you also have promotional merchandise like t-shirts, etc?
YES
8. How can gyms interested in Scorpion contact you? Can they contact you directly or are some distributors on board in the US?
Well, those who see our products or check our quality can contact us directly. Credit also goes to the distributors who work hard and also give us oppertunities. They show gym owners our products! Even last week the customer said "this is really a leather glove! I’ve never see that kind of leather in my thirteen year experience!"
9. Anything else you would like to say?
Yes! I would like to thank Mrs. Laurena M Campos for giving us an us a opportunity to describe the market, our experience, and our products. We also thank the entire team of Grit for their work hard! God Bless them!

To learn more about Scorpion Boxing please contact: Hassan Ahmed scorpionboxing@gmail.com

"Harmonizing with Humanity" airs on KXBG Radio

KXBG, The Birth of Radio, has a new show! Harmonizing With Humanity focuses on special needs people and their caregivers through their music.

We asked Ralph Watley, KXBG's excellent DJ, a few questions about the show.

What inspired you to start the show?
I started the Show after talking with Randy Grossman of Orlando, Florida. He is the person behind the Show and owner of the Label that created the CD "The Life That's Chosen Me".

Harmonizing with Humanity is a wonderful title. What do you hope people come away from the show with?
I hope people will have a better understanding of the special needs community and their caregivers. They are too often ignored, feared and shunned by society.

What are a few examples of people you've had on the show?
Our show consists of music from the CD, plus 2 Special songs to close the show everyday: God's Special Angel by Amy Barbera and I Sing by Gina Incandela. Both of these Artists also live in Florida. Amy is in the Miami area and Gina resides in Orlando.

When can listeners check the show out, and is there a way to listen to past episodes of Harmonizing with Humanity?
The Show airs every day at 5:30pm Eastern to 7pm Eastern and replays overnight for our Overseas listeners from 3:30am to 5am Eastern time. The show airs every day in its entirety, so listeners can hear it on regular basis, as we want this show to be heard by everyone possible.

You can listen to Harmonizing with Humanity KXBG on Live 365, or check out the webpage! The CD Ralph mentioned contains the material now airing on the show. If you like what you hear, you can purchase it to send to friends or listen to whenever you like!

Gangstagrass nominated for an Emmy!

"Long Hard Times to Come", the theme music written by Gangstagrass exclusively for FX's popular new show Justified, has just been nominated for an Emmy! Byron Beck, the biggest celebrity blogger in Portland, referred to Grit's President Laurena Marrone Campos as "Portland's PR Maven" while posting the news earlier today. For her part, Laurena is "humbled and honored" by the exciting news! Gangstagrass's innovative music continues to impress.

Rench and T.O.N.E-Z (Oscar Owens and Jason Keaton respectively, in the official nomination), have had several other Gangstagrass songs featured on the show. The duo recently released more of their unique sound on the must-hear album "Lightning On The Strings, Thunder On The Mic."

Watch closely on August 29th and give a cheer for Gangstagrass!

GRIT PR President Laurena Marrone Campos featured on Global Talk Radio

Laurena Marrone Campos, President of Grit PR & Consulting, was recently featured on Global Talk Radio. GTR’s “In the News” program spotlights authors and entrepreneurs, exploring the personal slices of ingenuity that made them successful. Join Laurena as she discusses the changes she has seen in the music industry, new opportunities for fresh artists to gain independent recognition, her own artistic passions, and why she loves running Grit PR. Laurena’s personal attention and expertise is one of the factors that distinguishes Grit PR. By working with only a few artists and businesses from each genre, Grit’s broad spectrum means clients won’t be competing.

“I think the pros right now are that independent artists have the opportunities that they never had back in the 80′s and 90′s…now the artists can really put their careers into their own hands and create fantastic looking product…”

Listen to Global Talk Radio’s interview with Laurena here!

KXBG Radio chosen as a Live365 Editor’s Pick!

KXBG Radio, an all original artist country, gospel, rock, and pop indie station, has really taken off! The station was recently honored as an Editor’s Pick on Live365, an internet radio network whose stations number over 6,000. KXBG plays a wide variety of music with a focus on helping independent artists from around the globe. In the five short months since its founding in January 2010, KXBG has rocketed up in ranking, from a starting ranking of 3,900th to being ranked 847th on the network!

Ralph Watley, the DJ behind KXBG, answers a few questions on the station’s purpose and how artists can benefit from it:

What made you decide to create such a diverse station? I created KXBG because as a songwriter myself I know how hard it is to find a place for Independent Music to be heard.

What should listeners expect to find on KXBG? KXBG listeners will find shows that fit their musical taste: we play Country, Rock, Inspirational, Men’s and Women’s Music in designated Shows each day.

Why do you think people are drawn to independent stations like KXBG over better-known am/fm options? This makes it easier for our listeners to hear their favorite Music and remain diverse too. People want to support their favorite Artists that may still be unknown to the music industry. I try to assist each Artist in any way possible.

Are there ways for artists to reinforce their airplay, such as banner ads or other advertising options associated KXBG? We are currently considering several options that will allow an Artist a way to advertise on our Web site. Of course we never charge any Artist for airplay and the option to sell their music thru Itunes and Amazon.com. Being on KXBG is winning option in everyway for our Artists.

Is there a genre of music you won’t play? We won’t play music that contains blatant offensive language. We try our very best to be an enjoyable and fun place to stop by while surfing the net whether at home, work or on your Iphone or Blackberry device.

How should artists go about submitting their songs?
Artists can submit their music on mp3 by emailing kxbgbirthofradio@gmail.com
Or by mailing their CD’s to
KXBG Radio
Attn. Ralph Watley
2203 Cyclone Street
Bryant, Arkansas 72022

KXBG thanks all its loyal listeners and artists for this recognition from the Live 365 network!

You can give KXBG a listen here!

Grit PR's take on "The Power of Print"

Bucking the fears and doubts of the Internet age, magazine interest is on the rise. From within the immersion of Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, young adults are seeking a complementary print experience. Over the past 12 years, as Google has become a daily staple, magazine readership has actually risen by 11%. A recent nationwide ad campaign, “The Power of Print,” celebrates the new understanding of magazine and Internet culture based in cooperation, not competition. Paired with luscious superstar prints, these advertisements reflect statistics showing that readership is on the rise, with those between the ages of 18 and 34 reading more magazine issues than their counterparts, and lingering on them longer. The Internet, it appears, doesn’t have to fade to passé to revitalize print culture. Internet searches yield online magazine subscriptions. In turn, readers respond to magazine advertisements more positively than those from the Internet or TV, prompting Internet searches. This symbiosis shows what Grit has known all along: that traditional PR is still valid, while Internet presence is increasingly crucial. As vinyl returns in the face of digital music, magazines provide a tangible experience that thrives alongside the Internet.

One exciting indication of this trend one is Blurt Magazine, hailed by Folio as “one of the 15 most Notable New Magazine Launches of 2009.” While providing a vibrant and popular site, Blurt is returning to print this year with a new look. “We strongly believe that print is still an irreplaceable format that we care about deeply,” says publisher Stephen Judge. “But we are also equally passionate about recent and upcoming advancements in the digital age of the publishing. The Kindle and iPad make us very excited about the future.”

- Kara Sowles, Grit PR & Consulting