Recent News & Blog Articles

What is a Production Deal?

by Robert Marshall

A production deal is an agreement between a producer and an artist to produce a record. Simple, right? Just like the search for a record label, the decision is much easier once the artist understands what types of deals are available, and which one works for the artist’s vision.

No two production deals are exactly alike, but there are three categories to which most of today’s deals are trending: the Mini-Record Deal, the Joint Venture, and the Work-for-Hire Deal.

Read more: What is a Production Deal?

1Pick songs that fit the gig and also songs that your audience will want to hear. Performing is about your audience – especially if you want them to come back and support you again.

2Dress well and dress so you fit in at the venue and gig. Many musicians do not realize how important appearance is. If you are not good with style, then ask a friend who has great style to help you. Professional artists have the complete package.

3Preparation is key – know the venue and try to see another performer/group perform there prior to your gig. You might pick up on some things to be aware of with sound, lighting, accompanying musicians, and stage setup.  Also practice, practice, practice…you are what you practice.

Read more: 12 Performance Secrets Revealed

Practice Techniques: It is all in the routine!

1Keep a written assignment book: Ask your instructor to write down your assignment each week or you write down your assignment before leaving your lesson/class. Writing down the assignment with details is very important … a few days later things become fuzzy as to the details of what you are supposed to practice.

Read more: Practice Doesn’t Make Perfect…Perfect Practice Makes Perfect

So You Want a Career in the Record Label Business?

by Robert Marshall

Saying you want a career in the record label business is just about as broad as saying you want a career in music. The possibilities are almost endless! To succeed you must find your niche, and to do this it is best to have a clear idea of what positions are available in the field.

Read more: So You Want a Career in the Record Label Business?

What is Music Licensing and How does it Work for You as the Songwriter?

by Robert Marshall

music (n.): an art of sound in time that express ideas and emotions

licensing (n.): formal permission from a governmental or other constituted authority to do something*

Music licensing is the licensed use of copyrighted music which serves to insure that the creators of the music are paid for their work. Every time you tune into a radio station, play your favorite CD or mp3, hear a song on TV or in the movies, watch a live show or even eat at a restaurant where music is played, you are witnessing the product of music licensing. A license, in this case, is “the right, granted by the copyright holder, for a given person or entity to broadcast, recreate, perform, or listen to a recorded copy of a copyrighted work.” ¹

Don’t quit your day job!

By Clint Clark

You may have taken voice lessons all your life. Maybe you’ve been performing in community theater and high school musical theater productions for years. But, unless you’re lucky enough to be born to a wealthy and supportive family, there is one thing you will need if you decide to make the big move to the BIG APPLE to pursue your Broadway dreams. A DAY JOB!

Read more: Don't Quit Your Day Job!