DverCITY Magazine
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by Steve Peterson
Last week, the hit Fox reality television series American Idol premiered two special episodes in support of its Idol Gives Back charity campaign. The event aired April 24 and 25, and benefited charities in Africa, as well as here in the U.S.
Titled "Idol Gives Back, the two-night mega event featured appearances by some of music's top performers, including Celine Dion, Pink, recent Idol mentor Gwen Stefani, Bono and Earth, Wind & Fire. In addition, the original Idol, Kelly Clarkson, performed at L.A.'s Walt Disney Concert Hall. Her performance was open to the public.
Also, Carrie Underwood, the Idol champion of season four was in attendance. Ellen Degeneres served as MC for the event.
For the most part, it was a worthwhile and entertaining event that reportedly raised between $30 and $60 million, which I think is fantastic. Here's the problem I had with the show.
It was announced during the event that Fox's parent company donated $5 million...an impressive amount to be sure. However, the donation amounts of other corporate sponsors were not disclosed. My question is why not? What's the big secret? Don't viewers have the right to know what everyone involved with the program actually donated? After all, it was a charity event.
Here's something else that bothered me. It was supposed to be a charity event. Why not suspend the performances of the contestants for one week, since the show already had plenty of guest performers lined up for the event. I just think the focus of the program was split in too many different directions. Then again, not having the contestants perform would have almost certainly affected viewership. So I somewhat understand that particular business decision.
As for the performances by the stars themselves, they really weren't bad at all. Celine Dion performing with a hologram of Elvis was seamless and very interesting to watch.
All in all, the show was actually pretty good, and a huge success. And although there were a couple of things that bothered me, since it was all for charity, I'll give Fox an A+ for its effort.
* * *
Author Steve Peterson is the owner of the hot new family website, HomeandFamily101.com
http://homeandfamily101.com
Author Steve Peterson is the owner of the hot new family website, HomeandFamily101.com
http://homeandfamily101.com
Steve Peterson may be contacted at httP//homeandfamily101.com or homeandfamily101@yahoo.com
by Timothy Chirillo
Ok, there is no doubt Sanjaya Malakar was not the most talented idol contestant, but I really do believe, he was one of the most entertaining. I personally would tune in just to see what his hairstyle would be the current week, and hoping his performances would get better. Millions of viewers will concur with me on his entertainment value, as he survived all the way to the top 7. My question is, could he have gone farther? Did American Idol boot him before his time?
After the top 12 results show , Sanjaya was gaining momentum each and every week. He was not even in the bottom three until he was voted off. Contestants such as Chris Richardson and Phil Stacy were consistently in the bottom three. However, when Sanjaya was voted off, these two were in the top bracket!
Sanjaya had the support of Howard Stern, and his millions of fans. Sure, Stern does not have the audience he used to when he was on terrestrial radio, but he does have approximately five to six million. He urged his fans to vote early and often for the San-Man, and many did. They used any method available to register as many votes as possible for the lovable underdog. This is what may have lead to Sanjaya's demise.
At the end of each American Idol broadcast, read the fine print. It says something to the affect that the producers have the final decision and the rights to disqualify any votes that appear to have been automated or unfair to give one contestant an advantage. Now, some Stern fans have admitted they used fiendish software to cast hundreds if not thousands of votes in one shot for Sanjaya. Were thousands of votes eliminated or disqualified?
Look, sure American Idol lets us, the viewers, vote for the next superstar. However, do you really think they would let the least talented become the next idol? Sanjaya had fans, but he was not the best singer, not by a longshot. In the end, American Idol will do what's best for American Idol.
Farewell Sanjaya. You will not be forgotten for at least another week or so, when your done with the talk show circuit.
Timothy is a internet developer, part time private investigator, tv buff. He resides in sunny Florida
Visit his website Yawn Tv for more on american idol
Timothy Chirillo may be contacted at http://www.monitorher.com or webmaster@monitorher.com
Beloved Award-Winning Duo, Bebe & Cece Winans, Kicks Off Reunion With American Idol Performance
(Photo l to r:) BeBe Winans, Melinda Doolittle, Rickey Minor (AI Music Director) and CeCe Winans.
Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com 5/24/07) - After more than 13 years apart and successful solo careers, look for inspirational gospel superstars BEBE & CECE WINANS to come together again for a much-anticipated reunion with a new album and tour in the works. The multi-award winning platinum-selling duo, officially, kicked off their reunion with an appearance on American Idol's sixth season finale. The brother & sister duo showed their support for AI's super-talented and vocally gifted, Melinda Doolittle. The trio gave a powerful performance of Percy Bady's smash hit written for BeBe & CeCe back in the early 90's. The song was, initially, recorded with pop princess, Whitney Houston appearing on the Heaven CD. The duo's performance marks the first gospel artist to perform on American Idol.
Bebe & Cece Winans
The illustrious career of BEBE & CECE WINANS--two of the ten children of gospel music's most renowned musical families--began their career in 1987, going on to become one of the most commercially successful gospel artist in the business. As a duo, BEBE & CECE's accolades include 5 Grammy Awards, 8 Dove Awards, 2 NAACP Image Awards, one Soul Train Award and over a dozen Stellar Awards. They also racked up 12 chart topping R&B singles, as well as numerous #1 singles on Christian AC and CHR radio, three gold albums and one platinum album. After an amazing run of smash hits and albums, BeBe & CeCe went on to pursue incredibly successful solo careers.
Accomplished singer/songwriter/producer BeBe pursued not only his musical passions with a number of solo albums, but also added acting to his repertoire with appearances on stage and films. Of this newest chapter in their career BeBe says, "I'm so grateful for BEBE & CECE's past accomplishments. But I'm so excited about coming back together and blazing new trails of hope into the hearts of people all around the world." Singer/songwriter CeCe--who released seven award-winning platinum and gold certified albums says, "I'm very excited that the time has finally come for BeBe and I to reunite and encourage the world with uplifting, soul-changing music."
The new album will see the duo reaching for new plateaus to add to their list of ground-breaking achievements. And music fans won't have to wait much longer than that to hear the inspirational delivery and powerful music of BeBe's warm soulful tenor and CeCe's distinct power-house vocals. Additional news about this reunion will be released in the coming months.
- Clarkson and Underwood Lead, While Daughtry, McPhee and Many Others Emerge -
LOS ANGELES, March 13 /PRNewswire/ -- American Idol, has had a massive impact on radio airplay since its debut six years ago, according to Mediabase, which monitors more than 1,800 radio stations 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, in more than 180 U.S. and Canadian markets. The blockbuster hit television show is now responsible for generating more than six million radio spins. This week alone, 12 former American Idol contestants are on the charts or close to making it on.
The airplay derby has been led by Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, who have dominated the radio airplay charts in recent years, among American Idol alumni. The winners of season one and four respectively, have racked up an impressive four million plus radio spins between them. Others who have become household names include Fantasia, Josh Gracin, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Chris Daughtry and 2007 Oscar and Soul Train Award Winner, Jennifer Hudson.
According to Mediabase, Clarkson has received a staggering 3.3 million spins since winning the American Idol title in its inaugural season. American Idol, hosted by Ryan Seacrest, is now midway into its sixth year of competition, translating to an average of more than 730,000 spins annually for Clarkson, since winning the coveted crown. Underwood has amassed 725,000 spins, and is firmly entrenched in the number two position, averaging more than 450,000 spins per year according to the radio monitoring firm.
"American Idol has become a dominant force in radio, particularly in the current driven formats," commented Mediabase President Rich Meyer. "The vast majority of radio programmers obviously feel that Clarkson and Underwood possess major star power and feel the same about a number of emerging Idol talent following in their footsteps. Finalists like Chris Daughtry, Katharine McPhee, Josh Gracin and Kimberley Locke are bursting on to the scene in a big way with their new releases, and other contestants like Mario Vazquez and Clay Aiken have certainly been formidable forces in radio as well."
Here are the airplay leaders, September 1, 2002, through March 11, 2007. 1) Kelly Clarkson Season One Winner 3,301,282 spins 2) Carrie Underwood Season Four Winner 725,441 spins 3) Josh Gracin Season Three Finalist 582,285 spins 4) Fantasia Barrino Season Three Winner 374,081 spins 5) Ruben Studdard Season Two Winner 293,588 spins 6) Clay Aiken Season Two Runner-Up 224,960 spins 7) Kimberley Locke Season Two Finalist 210,428 spins 8) Chris Daughtry Season Five Finalist 146,714 spins 9) Mario Vazquez Season Five Contestant 123,432 spins 10) Bo Bice Season Four Runner-Up 115,702 spins Here are the song leaders, September 1, 2002, through March 11, 2007. 1) Kelly Clarkson Breakaway 628,094 spins 2) Kelly Clarkson Because Of You 545,971 spins 3) Kelly Clarkson Since U Been Gone 543,913 spins 4) Kelly Clarkson Behind These Hazel Eyes 496,951 spins 5) Kelly Clarkson Walk Away 361,161 spins 6) Kelly Clarkson Miss Independent 356,682 spins 7) Josh Gracin Nothin' To Lose 270,478 spins 8) Carrie Underwood Jesus, Take The Wheel 252,276 spins 9) Kelly Clarkson A Moment Like This 250,716 spins 10) Carrie Underwood Before He Cheats 198,446 spins ABOUT MEDIABASE
Mediabase monitors more than 1,800 radio stations in 180 U.S. and Canadian markets, 24 hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week. In addition to providing vital airplay and programming information to more than 1,700 affiliate radio stations and every major broadcast group, Mediabase 24/7, a division of Premiere Radio Networks, is the data source for popular countdown and syndicated shows like American Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest, American Top 20 with Casey Kasem, After MidNite with Blair Garner, Ben & Brian's Big Top 20 Country Countdown, Country Countdown USA with Lon Helton, Jeff Foxworthy Countdown, Country Top 40 Countdown with Bob Kingsley, and others. Mediabase also provides its airplay research to every major record label in North America. Mediabase pioneered the concept of monitored airplay in 1987. Its charts can be found weekly in numerous trade and consumer publications and websites.
Source: Premiere Radio Networks
CONTACT: Amir Forester of Premiere Radio Networks, +1-818-461-5404
If you want a career in the music or entertament industry, then you are going to have to audition. Most singing auditions are on a small stage or in a small room . The first round of singing auditions is more than reminiscent of American Idol or any other singing competition seen on TV.If you've watched the early singing auditions for some of these shows,
If you've watched the early singing auditions for some of these shows,you might well have wondered whether you could do a whole lot better.It is amusing to see all these singing auditions on TV, but make sure you also notice how much stress and pressure is involved.
There are many resources that will offer to help you find singing auditions in your local area and there are many internet resources to help beginners find singing auditions.
But just like how churning the ocean can also lead to a lethal pot of poison turning up, singing auditions can also inadvertently shine a glaring spotlight upon the malodorous dregs of society who walk this planet secure in the misguided belief that their singing talents lie somewhere between excellent and divine.
You can't be successful on talent alone, so when you go to singing auditions, you must know what to be prepared for.You should know all facets of singing auditions from gauging your skills and preparing your songs, to handling the audition itself and also what to sing in any given situation, and how to sing it.
One thorny point that cames up from most auditions, that seemed to make almost everyone nervous is: what the song is about, what show or singer it is from , who is the original singer of the song, all the words of the whole song and not just the 16 bars that have been chosen,and how to work with a background singer at singing auditions.
At the singing auditions the judges are looking for potential and enthusiasm as much as experience and a "'finished product'.
You will likely be judged on the following criteria: -Tonal Quality: Does the voice sound focused, clear, open, warm and mature,Presentations:How you present yourself to the judges and Singing style and uniqueness.
In other words, singing auditions are held in order to choose the vocalists who will be presenting the "individual flowers encompassing the garland of songs that is the show".
For more information and to gain the advantage in singing auditions, get your FREE copy of "8 Things You Should Know Before Walking Into That Audition Room" e-report today at http://www.singingauditionsecrets.com
Rajinderpal Singh may be contacted at http://wwww.singingauditionsecrets.com or imnewsinfo@gmail.com
Singing Sensation and American Idol Season 5 Finalist Elliott Yamin Signs on to Kick-Off Search
Lucky Winners to Appear in National Oscar Mayer Commercial
MADISON, Wis., May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Calling all "hot dogs" with a taste for Hollywood! It's icon meets Idol as the Oscar Mayer brand today announced its official partnership with FremantleMedia for sponsorship of American Idol Season 7. America's favorite hot dog company will amplify the partnership to support their "Sing the Jingle, Be a Star" promotion via broadcast and online advertising, on-pack, and online at http://www.singthejingle.com/.
Now in its second year, the Oscar Mayer Sing the Jingle, Be a Star contest invites eager songsters to see if they can cut the mustard by singing their own unique rendition of one of the popular Oscar Mayer jingles. Whether rapped, yodeled or sung in three-part harmony, interested hopefuls are encouraged to put their own relish on the Oscar Mayer Wiener Jingle, the Bologna Song, or an Oscar Mayer Spanish Jingle. Solo artists and -- new this year -- duos and groups of up to five people -- can enter from May 24 to October 31, 2007. As part of the promotion, the American Idol name and imagery will be featured on 250 million packs of Oscar Mayer lunch meats, hot dogs, corn dogs and bacon.
"The Oscar Mayer jingles have collectively delighted people for more than a century so what better way to celebrate our iconic melodies than by harmonizing with America's biggest singing competition," says Oscar Mayer Marketing Director Heather Fries. "We're looking forward to hearing this year's entries and can't wait to hit the road this summer!"
Michele Welch, Director of Integrated Marketing FremantleMedia added, "American Idol is the ultimate talent search so it only makes sense to partner with the Oscar Mayer brand for this promotion. We know that there are so many talented people across the country; we just hope that this campaign discovers more."
Lyrical Launch
AMERICAN IDOL Season 5 finalist Elliott Yamin will help the Oscar Mayer team kick-off the search for the next jingle stars on June 13 in the Central Courtyard at the Hollywood & Highland Center, just steps away from the Kodak Theatre where the season finale of AMERICAN IDOL took place. Elliott will assist the Hotdoggers, official drivers of the WIENERMOBILE vehicles, as eager entrants sing their hearts out at the first open casting call of the hot dog season.
Hittin' the Road
The search will continue throughout the summer, as the WIENERMOBILE vehicles cruise the country hosting open casting calls to give Oscar Mayer fans the opportunity to enter the contest. Contestants ages six and up may enter at official WIENERMOBILE vehicle stops, where their entry will be videotaped, or mail-in a VHS videotape or DVD along with an official entry form, available on http://www.singthejingle.com/. They may also upload their entry videos at the contest website http://www.singthejingle.com/. Mailed entries should be sent to: Sing the Jingle Entries, P.O. Box 5600, Blair, NE 68009-5600. All entries must be received by October 31, 2007.
OH, I WISH...I were an Oscar Mayer Winner
Twelve finalists will be selected by a panel of Oscar Mayer appointed judges and posted online at http://www.singthejingle.com/ from January 15 to February 15, 2008. During this time, Americans can log onto singthejingle.com to vote for their favorite jingle contest entry or to find additional details on how to vote via ballot form or mail.
America's vote, along with the panel of Oscar Mayer appointed judges, will help select three Grand Prize winners, who will receive the chance to appear in a nationally televised Oscar Mayer commercial, a trip for two to the American Idol Season 7 Finale* and commercial taping location. Judging will be based on overall performance, style, creativity and suitability for an Oscar Mayer TV commercial.
For official Oscar Mayer Sing the Jingle, Be a Star entry materials, complete rules and more information, visit http://www.singthejingle.com/. No purchase necessary.
Kraft Foods is one of the world's largest food and beverage companies with annual revenues of more than $34 billion. For over 100 years, Kraft has offered consumers delicious and wholesome foods that fit the way they live. Kraft markets a broad portfolio of iconic brands in 155 countries, including seven brands with revenue of more than $1 billion, such as Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; Oscar Mayer meats; Philadelphia cream cheese; Post cereals; Nabisco cookies and crackers; Jacobs coffees and Milka chocolates. Kraft became a fully independent company on March 30, 2007, and is listed in the Standard and Poor's 100 and 500 indexes. The company also is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more information, visit the company's website at http://www.kraft.com/.
* In the event a winner or winning group member is less than 8 years old
at the time of intended travel to the American Idol Finale, he/she will
be awarded a Sponsor-specified prize of equal or greater value in lieu
of the trip.
About Fremantle Media
FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas (FLW, Americas) is the licensing arm of FremantleMedia for North and South America. FremantleMedia one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world, with leading prime time drama, serial drama, entertainment and factual entertainment programming in over 40 territories. FLW, Americas exploits FremantleMedia's many strong brands, including the award winning, American Idol, the world's longest running gameshow The Price Is Right, the ever-popular Family Feud, and other classic gameshows, across multiple off-screen platforms including merchandising campaigns, live events, sponsorship, interactive and wireless support, home entertainment and music publishing. FLW, Americas is also responsible for additional business diversification initiatives including Atomic Wedgie, a pioneering wireless channel delivering original made-for-mobile video content on demand.
FLW, Americas is part of FremantleMedia North America (FMNA). FremantleMedia North America (FMNA) is a division of global media giant FremantleMedia, one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world. Based in Burbank, California, FMNA currently produces some of the most innovative and highest-rated entertainment on television, including Emmy-nominated musical/reality phenomenon "American Idol" for Fox, "America's Got Talent" for NBC, "American Inventor" for ABC, "The Janet Dickinson Modeling Agency" for Oxygen, "Property Ladder" for TLC, the daily syndicated "Family Feud," and the longest-running game show in television history, "The Price Is Right" for CBS.
FremantleMedia is the production arm of the RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company. With interests in 34 television channels and 30 radio stations in 11 countries, RTL Group is a division of leading integrated media and entertainment company, Bertelsmann AG.
About American Idol:
Twenty-two-time Emmy-nominated AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Nigel Lythgoe, President, 19 Television; and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.
About 19 Entertainment:
19 Entertainment, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CKX, Inc. (NASDAQ:CKXE) , was founded by Simon Fuller 21 years ago and acquired by CKX in March 2005. The company is recognized as a leading creator, provider and promoter of globally successful, music-based entertainment, or "Entertainment Brands."
Simon Fuller, who serves as Chief Executive Officer of 19 Entertainment, is the creator of AMERICAN IDOL in the United States, "Pop Idol" in the UK, as well as versions of the IDOL format in more than 30 countries around the world. Fuller is also the co-creator of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, which aired in the U.S. on FOX during summer 2005 and was the top-rated television show in its time slot.
Fuller has made music history in the UK and the U.S.A., producing a stream of No. 1 hits and managing multi-platinum-selling acts. Fuller recently became the world's most successful manager -- breaking a record set by the Beatles' manager Brian Epstein in the 1960s -- when three of his artists occupied the No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 positions on the U.S. single chart as well as the No. 1 position on the album chart.
19 Entertainment has been involved in the creation of 109 No. 1 singles and 87 No. 1 albums in the UK alone, with an impressive tally of 296 Top-40 albums and 465 Top-40 singles.
Source: Kraft Foods
Poptarts.com Features Webisodes and Special Offers for American Idol Fans
BATTLE CREEK, Mich., May 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting May 24, 2007, American Idol fans will have all-access passes to one of the summer's most highly anticipated music tours. For the second consecutive year, Kellogg's(R) Pop-Tarts(TM) will stream 15 webisodes throughout the summer featuring fresh content and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the 2007 Pop-Tarts Presents American Idols Live! Tour.
This year fans can experience even more of the action and see what life is really like for the American Idols as they get ready to tour, rehearse for shows, prepare backstage and travel the country. The new, free webisodes will be featured on www.poptarts.com and will be accessible to all American Idol fans. In fact, the first webisode will be available following the TV show's season finale, which airs on Wednesday, May 23, 2007.
"We are so excited to bring people the details about their favorite American Idols on tour this summer," said Mark Brittain of 19 Entertainment. "Fans will be able to get up close and personal with the Idols, experience what life is really like after the season finale and follow them behind the scenes on the road."
Specially marked packages of Pop-Tarts feature a token to put toward an exclusive American Idol t-shirt signed by all top 10 finalists. Those who mail in four tokens or one token plus $4.99 will receive this exclusive Crazy Good(TM) offer. Fans are encouraged to check out the webisodes to see their favorite finalists wearing the exclusive American Idol t-shirt. In addition to the webisodes, PopTarts.com will also feature an interactive U.S. map identifying the 53 cities hosting concerts, an Idol trivia game, biographical information on each performer, and interactive concert tour information. The Pop-Tarts Presents American Idols Live! Tour opens on Friday, July 6 in Sunrise, Florida and will make its final stop on Saturday, September 22 in Manchester, New Hampshire.
The original webisodes are created and developed by the American Idols Live! Tour producers, 19 Entertainment, in collaboration with Kellogg Company.
About the Kellogg Company
With 2006 sales of almost $11 billion, Kellogg Company (NYSE:K) is the world's leading producer of cereal and a leading producer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, toaster pastries, fruit snacks, cereal bars, frozen waffles, and veggie foods. The company's brands include Kellogg's, Keebler, Pop-Tarts, Eggo, Cheez-It, Nutri-Grain, Rice Krispies, Murray, Austin, Morningstar Farms, Famous Amos, Carr's, Plantation, Ready Crust and Kashi. Kellogg products are manufactured in 17 countries and marketed in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information, visit Kellogg's Web site at www.kelloggcompany.com.
About 19 Entertainment (A CKX Company)
19 Entertainment is recognized as a leading creator, provider and promoter of globally successful, music based entertainment, or "Entertainment Brands". 19 has attracted a unique collection of expertise in people who work together to integrate and leverage activity across television, music film, merchandising, music publishing, recording, artist/writer and producer management, sponsorship and promotion. To date, 19 has been involved in the creation of 101 Number 1 singles and 81 Number 1 albums with an impressive tally of 233 Top 40 albums and 389 Top 40 singles.
About AEG LIVE
AEG Live, the live-entertainment division of Anschutz Entertainment Group, is dedicated to all aspects of live entertainment and multi-media production. AEG LIVE, the nation's second largest concert promotion and touring company is comprised of special event, broadcast and exhibition divisions, eight regional offices and numerous state of the art venues nationwide. The company's national promotion arm is currently producing tours and productions including Celine Dion A New Day ... Presented By Chrysler now appearing at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas and "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," an international tour of the artifacts of King Tut. Recent and upcoming promoted concert tours have included artists such as Justin Timberlake, Bon Jovi, Prince, Christina Aguilera, Usher, Kenny Chesney, Rod Stewart, Paul McCartney, Dixie Chicks, American Idols Live and So You Think You Can Dance. Goldenvoice, the company's southern California-based regional promotion division created and operates the award winning annual Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. The company operates Nokia Theatre at Grand Prairie (Texas) and the Nokia Theatre Times Square, a 2,100-seat concert venue in Times Square, and will be booking the new Prudential Center in New Jersey set to open October 2007. With a seating capacity of 16,500+ for concerts, Prudential Center is the first major sports/entertainment venue to open in the NJ/NY area in over 25 years, and will be a prime location for booking AEG Live's popular roster.
Source: Kellogg Company
Web site: http://www.kelloggcompany.com/
http://www.poptarts.com/
by Jaci Rae
The Cattle Call has begun as season six of American Idol is underway. Tens of thousands of people are lining up all over the USA hoping to be chosen for a chance to be the next American Idol. Only a few will be selected for the final competition, but what about the others? Will they go back home broken hearted believing that their 'big chance' has passed them by, never to be heard from again? Or will they take control of their own career and propel themselves to the top without Simon, Paula, or Randy’s help?
Award winning singer and author Jaci Rae did it alone and built a successful music career the hard way. "Artists all over the world are hoping for their big break. They think if they get a recording contract their music career is set for life. What they don't realize is that the music industry is about making money and doesn't necessarily care about them as a person." Jaci says.
"The aspiring artist needs to know the business side of the music industry before they attempt to navigate it so they won't be ripped off or surprised when they find out it's a loan they're receiving, should they be signed, and not a large sum of money that was given to them."
Some professionals hide their secrets, but not Jaci Rae. She has generously given struggling artists the keys to the music business, showing artists how to market themselves and get much needed publicity with little or no money inside her book, The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. But she didn't stop there. Jaci Rae also includes music industry personnel's address, phone numbers and email addresses so artists can use the knowledge they have gained at the bargaining table of a record company, management firm or booking agency.
Before you step off into the music or entertainment industry, take a step back and check out The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money.
The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money is available at http://www.jacirae.com and amazon.com
Jaci Rae’s grit and determination brought her from a poor childhood to a successful singer and performer who tours around the world. She is the recipient of the "Female Vocalist of the Year" award at the Golden Music Awards in Nashville, as well as a Barnes and Noble and Amazon #1 Best seller. Jaci is also co-host of the show Concerts in the Sky with broadcasting mogul Jesse Dylan.
She is the author of The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. Jaci Rae spends her spare time helping others, working on her music, writing and hanging out with family and friends. For more information, go to http://www.jacirae.com
If you would like to book Jaci for your show, please go to: http://www.jacirae.com and click on the contact button to reach one of Jaci’s publicists.
Jaci Rae’s grit and determination brought her from a poor
childhood to become the owner of several successful corporations.
A singer and #1 Best selling author who tours around the world,
Jaci is also well known for her unique and successful marketing
strategies. Jaci is on the dating team of Savvymiss.com, the
relationship expert for lovingyou.com and is a relationship advisor
for loveisgreat.com and singlescafe.net. Jaci Rae is also a co-host
for the show Concert's in the Sky with Jesse Dylan.
Jaci Rae's latest books are, Shop for a Day with Jaci Rae –
How to Get Almost Anything for Free or Next to It and Collista's
Search for the True Meaning of Christmas. Other books are Winning
Points With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time and
The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. For more information
http://www.shopforaday.com
, http://www.grannysnaturalpopcorn.com
, http://www.winningromance.com
http://www.christmaswithlove.com
or http://www.jacirae.com
About.com Dating Guide lists Jaci's book, Winning Points
With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time in the top
six of all time dating / relationship books. http://dating.about.com/od/datingadvice/ss/RelateBooks_6.htmJaci
Rae may be contacted at http://www.jacirae.com
Kelly Clarkson Poster
Buy
at AllPosters.com
Season
3 Finalists
by Jaci Rae
(1-17-07) American Idol premiered this season with high expectations from the audience and critics as well as record setting ratings. Despite all the fan fair and funny moments, American Idol had too much of a bad thing this year, humiliating people beyond what is tolerable.
Paula Abdul was her usual tactful self, offering a lot of encouragement to music industry hopefuls and Randy Jackson remained calm despite some obvious flaws in performance techniques to say the least, but Simon Cowell was his usual tactless self (part of the shows appeal).
While this "judge" can't help but wonder if many of those "real" performances were attempts to gain one minutes worth of fame, some of the wise cracks about the physical appearance of American Idol hopefuls by Simon, were downright rude and uncalled for.
To Simon's defense, he did show incredible tact and reserve with other less fortunate talent imitators, as well as a lot of reserve when the Taylor Hicks wannabe approached him to fix his hair. Win or lose, the world can't get enough of American Idol, and I am one of those who will watch with baited breath.
Jaci Rae’s grit and determination have brought her from
an impoverished childhood to a career as an award-winning singer,
No. 1 best-selling author and entrepreneur who has toured around
the world. Jaci shares her down-to-earth advice as the relationship
advisor/expert/dating coach for igniteromance.com, savvymiss.com,
lovingyou.com, loveisgreat.com and singlescafe.net.
Jaci Rae's latest books are, Shop for a Day with Jaci Rae –
How to Get Almost Anything for Free or Next to It and Collista's
Search for the True Meaning of Christmas. Other books are Winning
Points With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time and
The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. For more information
http://www.shopforaday.com
, http://www.grannysnaturalpopcorn.com
, http://www.winningromance.com
http://www.christmaswithlove.com
or http://www.jacirae.com
About.com Dating Guide lists Jaci's book, Winning Points With
The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time in the top six
of all time dating / relationship books. http://dating.about.com/od/datingadvice/ss/RelateBooks_6.htmJaci
Rae may be contacted at http://www.jacirae.com
by Randallthe Vandal
In the history of show business, there have been some phrases so fearful, so terrifying that it's hard to believe they were ever uttered. Shaft starring Ron Palillo. And the Oscar goes to Roberto Benigni. Introducing the main attraction of the evening, Elaine Boosler. Spandau Ballet to headline OzzFest '97. Although I have to admit once those boys finished crooning True to that mob on opening night, there was nothing Cypress Hill could do but sit back and worship at the feet of the masters. But even all those blunders don't compare to these dreaded words: Broadway Night On American Idol.
It's hard to get in the mood for such a bad night of singing, but Ryan appears to have done just that. Either that or he no longer is hiding the fact that he went to a Bing Crosby auction before dressing himself this week. Now if only he had a pipe and a smooth charisma about him, he'd be just like the original. Oh well, at least he could go out and buy a pipe. But enough of that. Let's have a bunch of people barely out of their teens chop up some of the classics of the Great White Way. At least the ones Maureen McGovern didn't get to first.
Scott Savol, you're out on bail! Thanks for joining us. Boy, it sure was nice of Paula do lend you her lawyer for the weekend, huh? Scott decides to sing The Impossible Dream, which was made famous by Richard Kiley. Afterwards, he'll be drinking a bottle of Jack Daniels. Also made famous by Richard Kiley. Scott is looking daper in a classic dark blue suit, perfect for performing on talent shows yet classic enough for those pesky court appearances during the day. His performance leaves a little to be desired. For instance, I'm desiring Richard Kiley. And a bottle of Jack Daniels. And Richard Kiley is optional. The judges commend his bravery for picking such a tough song. I commend his bravery on still resisting the urge to not shave off that semi-beard. Not that anyone would notice if he had.
Constantine thinks its still February, so he's going to sing My Funny Valentine. He also tells us that this song was written for the show Babes In Arms, which is a Michael Jackson joke that practically tells itself. Constantine also recalls the movie Pal Joey, starring Frank Sinatra and Kim Novak. Both of whom are more rebellious than Constantine himself. The big guy is doing a pretty good job though, even wearing one of Sinatra's old skeleton pinkie rings for good luck. If Jilly Rizzo were alive, he'd be saying "who the heck is writing this drivel, and can I whack him off for ya, Mr. Sinatra?' I never really cared for Jilly myself. I've always been a Peter Lawford man myself.
Carrie is up, and picks a song dedicated to me and Vonzell, Hello Young Lovers. The judges think the song is boring. Richard Rodgers and his seventeen truck loads of Tony Awards disagree. But Randy was a backup singer for Journey, so I guess that means something. Like Neil Schon had more vocal range than he had. I didn't know Neil Schon had more vocal range than anybody. Carrie really reminds me of my prom date, except she's blonde, perky and can heft 75lb bales of hay with no problem. Also she doesn't have a mole with three stray hairs sticking out like my prom date had. But other than that, she's a dead ringer.
Dum-dum-da-dum. Dum-dum-da-dum. Dearly beloved. We are gathered together to watch my future Mrs take another step in winning this competition. Vonzell has settled on singing People, from Funny Girl. Somewhere in Bittersville, New York, Mikalah is preparing to frantically call the eight numbers not assigned to Vonzell. See, Mikalah, THAT's what a Streisand song is supposed to sound like. The judges all agree that Vonzell is awesome. Actually, they didn't say that, but if they can dig their head in the sand and ignore some things, then so can I.
Anthony Fedorov is up, and surprisingly eschews the chance to sing a song as Tevye from Fiddler On The Roof. The scary thing is that I didn't have to look that part up on Google. The scarier thing is that I'm in my 30s and still use words like eschews in my sparsely read recaps. Instead, Anthony sings Climb Ev'ry Mountain. Unfortunately he mangles ev'ry note and just lost his chance to win ev'ry vote. That was alot funnier in my head. Also, if anyone is counting tonight, it's Richard Rodgers 3, Randy Jackson 0.
Nikko could be in trouble, since Richard Rodgers never wrote any R&B songs. So instead he sings One Hand One Heart from West Side Story. While wearing a suit vest and fedora. Nothing says gritty gang musical like dressing like one of Gladys Knights' pips. Nikko seems also to be cheating, since the high notes of this song are being sung by someone else. I was wondering what Mario Vasquez had been up to. Paula leads the cheers for Nikko, calling him the 'Comeback' kid. Actually, he's more like the 'We Thought We Got Rid Of You Once But At Least You're Not As Bad As Leah LaBelle' kid. But he'll take what he can get.
Anwar is up now, and he will sing If Ever I Would Leave You, which shockingly wasn't written by Richard Rodgers. The slacker. Fearing that half of America would be losing sleep over what show his song came from, Anwar fills us in. He reads cue cards really well. He's like Robert Osbourne, before he became the Green Goblin. Anwar obviously signed a sponsorship deal with four different coat makers, and decided to wear them all tonight. Anwar does a pretty good impersonation of Robert Goulet, though he doesn't have nearly the awesome hair. The judges all agree that Anwar is back. They also agree that Anwar is black. Nothing gets by these three.
And now for the comic relief of the evening. God knows you're not getting any from this recap. Bo Bice will now sing a Broadway song. This is gonna be good. Unless he picks something from Hair or Tommy. Luckily, he picks Corner Of The Sky, a song I've never heard of. It's apparently from the show Pippin, which chronicles the growth of a young boy from Central Arkansas to the heights of NBA fame. Or not. Bo feared a lot of egg-throwing from the audience, so he's wearing a sleek-looking red slicker. It also appears that Bo is using highlights in his hair this week. Did I just notice another man's changing hair color? I need a beer, a bar and a Toby Keith song. Fast.
Nadia isn't going to supply any of those, but at least she's better looking than Bo. Plus she spends less time in front of the mirror. She's also more comfortable with this theme, singing As Long As He Needs Me from the show Oliver! That's not my exclamation point, it's theirs! Okay, that last one was mine! And that one! This is fun! Nadia is great as usual, and all three judges agree! This recap is more over than the career of the Climax Blues Band! So stop reading already! And go vote and destroy someone's dream!
Randall the Vandal is a humor writer who covers all the reality shows on television with his own brand of humor, stolen from more original writers. When not recapping these shows on a weekly basis, he spends his free time working for minimum wage, prentending to be more famous than he is and talking incessantly in the third person.Randallthe Vandal may be contacted at www.randallthevandal.com or randallthevandal2004@yahoo.com
by Keith Hannaleck
Los Angeles, CA--October 30, 2006-- The public’s fascination with “American Idol” is evident by the success that not only the winners, but finalists enjoy after their season’s competition is over. But what about those who lose in the earlier rounds – what does the experience do to their dreams? For Patrick Hall, being eliminated the very first week after getting to the top 24 on last season’s “American Idol” turned out to be the inspiration for him to take his music career to the next level and go for it.
“What a lot of people may not realize is that before the season even hits the TV screen, the competition has been going on for months. You keep getting to the next rung and you start believing you have a chance to be the next American Idol,” Hall explains. “When the actual televised competition began, I told myself that the initial goal was to get to the Top 12. When I got eliminated so early in the televised competition, I had a lot of pent up sadness and anger. I found myself questioning my song choice, my wardrobe, and of course my performance. I really felt I never had a chance to show what I am capable of.”
Instead of letting those emotions hold him back or beat him down, though, Hall decided to turn that negative into a positive. “I was helped when Nayan Lassiter, a music industry executive and producer, gave me a call after I was off the show. I remember he was very encouraging. He told me ‘Everyone loses sometimes, even Tiger Woods. Nobody wins all of the time.’” That conversation was the spark, and it sent Lassiter and Patrick back into the studio where they wrote “One For The Ages” which is not only about Patrick’s personal experience of being on “American Idol” and falling short, but about the whole process of trying to win at anything in life. “After the song was done,” Patrick goes on, “Nayan told me that he was starting a new record label and asked me if I’d be interested in being his debut release. Think about it,” Hall laughs, “from one day to the next I go from being eliminated to having a record deal.”
Now, the song, which is the first single off Patrick’s upcoming album, also titled One For The Ages, on Ni-Fi Records, has been made into a video which takes an amusing look at the whole talent competition procedure. “There’s a little bit of parody of Randy, Simon and Paula,” Hall teases, “but also a lot of poking fun at myself. I remember all the trepidation I had in my earliest talent recitals back in grade school that was as much a motivation for the video as American Idol was.”
“One For The Ages”, the single, will be released
on October 31. One For The Ages, the album, is slated for a February
2007 release.
Contact: Chip Schutzman
Company: Miles High Productions
Address: 6622 Delongpre Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028
Telephone: 323-806-0400
Fax: 323-462-0829
Email
Website
Myspace
YouTube
Video Link
Author Laura Kaufman-PR Distributed By MuzikReviews.com
for Miles High
Productions
Keith Hannaleck, known as “MuzikMan” is a Journalist specializing in independent and major music reviews and the promotion of artists via the various media outlets flourishing online. He has worked closely with artists, management, publicity directors, and webmasters to provide some of the best and far-reaching coverage an artist could have. Focusing primarily on the internet as a medium for his work, Keith has been a pioneer in the industry changing the way a reviewer with his various talents are used by many artists, PR folks, and labels. He has provided strong and valuable work to labels, artists, and publicity people, writing reviews, press releases, and biographies and much more over the years, giving the people he works with the maximum amount of exposure through several top-notch websites that post his content on their sites. Hannaleck built and maintained his own website in 1998 while networking and building his reputation through thousands of reviews and interviews, creating a special niche for himself. Through many years of dedication and hard work, he has reached a respected level of competence and knowledge that is frequently sought by the music industry today. Known for his speaking from the heart interpretations of music and being able to put it in layman’s terms for music fans, his work is found everywhere in cyberspace and in traditional print media, from press kits to quotes from reviews in magazine advertisements. Keith Hannaleck may be contacted at http://www.muzikreviews.com or khannaleck@yahoo.com
by Alejandra Incera
Everyone snickered a month ago when there were still 8 singers in contention for the coveted American Idol crown and at 18-1, I must have been the only person in the world that suggested you plunk down so hard earned cash on Elliot Yamin. Yesterday highly touted publications were predicting the demise of my main man.
I mean even one of my own employer’s followed up my so called perceived ridiculous statement, with a rebuttal from another writer. Hey, to each his own and it’s like I am bang on with every one of my predictions.
Let’s turn the clock back to April 14, 2006:
AT 18-1 ELLIOT YANIN WILL SHOCK THE WORLD!
Okay I admit I have hit rock bottom as I am about to write an article on American Idol, but on the flip side, you have to admit, this show has power! I have in this competition sat on my couch with my wife who loves the show and in this particular competition have seen the contestants twice. The first time I saw Elliot Yamin sing he was doing a Stevie Wonder tune called ‘If You Really Love Me” and I said then and there that the competition was over.
This guy blew the competition out of the water and even Simon had to admit the guy has the chops. This past week I watched the competition and it was the show with the “Queen “theme and this is not an easy group to imitate. I was stunned they did the voting and he was placed in the bottom three which meant there was a chance he would get eliminated. BS I cried out to my wife, but then it call hit me like a ton of bricks, the guy is short and ugly and the superficial callers, could not get past this issue.
I can't be the only one to notice that Elliott Yamin has the worst teeth on American Idol. But could his dental dilemma be due to diabetes and not poor hygiene?
But Elliott's teeth aren't the only unusual feature on the 27 year-old contestant from Richmond, Virginia. His Abe Lincoln-style sideburns make him look like a cross between an Amish farmer and street gangster. And sometimes he even looks like a leprechaun cautiously coveting his pot of gold. But seriously, Elliott can use his weirdo/outsider/creepy look to his advantage. Think about it - if his confidence continues to grow (and it should if Simon keeps stroking Elliott's ego), he could be the unlikely long-shot that is the next American Idol.
American Idol sells the sizzle that anyone can win this competition and what better way then to select a Diabetes sufferer from a poverty stricken family to be the next winner. Believe me folks American Idol will by the show Extreme Makeover and send Yamin there and he will come out looking by Brad Pitt.
I gave you the White Sox, I gave you Mickleson and now you have an 18-1 longshot!
Now I don’t want to come across as some pompous you know what, but this whole American Idol is no different them betting on pro sports. The Phoenix Suns were buried by the public after game 5 of their series against Lakers and everyone was talking about the great Kobe and Phil Jackson for coach of the year.
After game 7 it was all Steve Nash and his posse. The Suns then took apart the Clippers in game one and everyone was talking about all the unsung heroes on the Phoenix team. I warned you that the spread of Suns -4 ½ was too low, but the guys with all the money in Vegas, knew that betting is 90% public perception. The Clippers mauled the Suns last night!
American Idol attracts millions of viewers and wants to continue that trend. They sell the American Dream that anything is possible, plus they want controversy at the water cooler the next day!
Elliott Yamin is the Steve Nash of American Idol that suggests that it is alright to “Dare to Dream”!
Alejandra Incera may be contacted at http://www.sportsbook.com or seo@playersonly.com
by Timothy Rea
If you are a fan of ‘American Idol’, or just a casual observer, you may wonder whether the system for choosing the final winner really selects the most talented performer.
‘American Idol’ is the popular TV phenomenon, and spin-off of the U.K. reality series called ‘Pop Idol’. The goal of this show is to find the BEST undiscovered talent in the U.S. and reward them with a recording contract from one of the BMG record labels (a company owned by the producer of the ‘American Idol’ television show).
But, does this show produce the most talented, most deserving singer at the end of the season?
Before you answer that question, consider all the variables that affect who goes on to appear on the next week’s ‘American Idol’ show, and who, ultimately, becomes the singer to take home the coveted ‘American Idol’ prize (the recording contract).
Let’s start with the early auditions. These are held in selected cities across the United States. If you don’t live in one of those cities, you are not likely to get to audition (so we’ve cut out quite a few talented people in that first selection).
Secondly, a panel looks at thousands of people who line up in the convention center in the city selected for an audition visit. This panel chooses contestants based on singing ability AND on human interest and novelty, or humor.
This selection is designed to make the early audition shows more interesting, funny and entertaining so that people won’t turn off the TV before the competition gets to the finalists. THEN, producers choose a certain number of contestants to appear before the judges.
This is the FIRST time the ‘American Idol’ judges have seen any of these contestants, and already there may be many talented people left in the dust in favor of someone who is SO bad that the ‘American Idol’ TV audience may find them humorous and like to watch them for that reason.
After all the city auditions are completed, auditions are held in Hollywood and a final selection is made for the initial shows. Although the age limit was raised in the fourth season, the age limitation is still below age 30, so many very talented contestants are ruled out based on age alone. This is because MOST of the ‘American Idol’ viewers are young and the producers don’t feel that an older contestant would be interesting to a younger viewer.
Finally, the ‘American Idol’ contestants parade their talents in front of the panel of judges and the TV audience. And here is where the question of talent really SHOULD come into play – but often does not! Although the judges provide feedback to the contestants on ways to improve their performance, and each contestant works with a coach throughout the week to prepare the song they will sing that week on the ‘American Idol’ broadcast, the final decision on who stays and who goes lies with the voters. Unlike the American political process, voters are not allowed just ONE vote to express their opinion. They may call in or text message as many votes as they wish within the prescribed voting period for their time zone.
In most communities, teenagers talk to their friends and influence one another to vote for one ‘American Idol’ contestant. Blogs and message boards and web sites discuss the finer points of the performer’s clothes, hair cut and looks. ‘American Idol’ talent is judged by less than professional knowledge of vocal talent, and many contestants struggle to learn proper vocal technique from the coaches backstage even as teens are text messaging their fingers off to vote for what may be described by some as ‘screaming’ instead of singing. So, it can be said that the final contestants are chosen by popularity contest, rather than by singing talent.
Even as very talented people are voted off the show, other ‘American Idol’ contestants will go on to the next show, because they are more ‘popular’ with the teenage audience, or because some very enterprising group of kids decided to push their favorite ‘American Idol’ contestant over the top by text messaging 200 votes.
So, after all of those variables are considered, can it be said that the most talented ‘undiscovered’ singer will be awarded the coveted ‘American Idol’ recording contract? Perhaps it would be more appropriate to say that the luckiest, most popular person in the appropriate age range will win!
American Idol Resource Box
Visit our web site to learn everything you need to know about American Idol and all of your favorite contestants: We Love American Idol
Timothy Rea has been a writer for over three decades. He has written a number of e-books as well as articles for computer publication. He resides in Boulder Co. and enjoys writing, family, and the outdoors. If you have any questions or comments they are welcome.Timothy Rea may be contacted at or rowan11@comcast.net
by Michael Nalbone
American Idol Wannabees: Do Us All A Favor? by Mike Nalbone
Don't practice. Dress funny.
Seriously. That's why we watch. We love to see you struggle, embarrass yourselves & get tortured by Simon.
Come on, admit it. You like it too, right?
Sure, Clay Aiken and Kelly Clarkson made us cheer and dial the phone until our fingers were raw (I nearly cried when my pick for 2004, Fantasia Barrino, won), but the real joy comes from watching those of you who don't have a chance.
Who will forget William Hung's painful, yet stoic audition? It'll go down in history as one of the best moments on TV.
But, have you ever wondered why we find pleasure in seeing others fail so miserably in public?
The answer is simple: "There but for the grace of God, go I".
I'll be the first to admit it: I have no singing talent. I know it. So do my neighbors. But would I dare to go on national TV, even if I thought I had an ounce of vocal ability? No way. I'm not brave enough.
You see, we laugh at you & discuss your misery at work the next morning after the show, but deep down inside, we're jealous of you.
That's right, jealous.
We're jealous because you're willing to take that chance that most of us never will. We'll all die wondering "What if?".
Not you though, you're different. You're willing to be exposed before a Nation. You're willing to be mocked, and made fun of. You have heart. You choose to live your life the way you want & not worry about what the rest of us think of you.
You have the guts to do what 99% of us don't. You put your heart on your sleeve & let it all hang out.
So, mock you we may, but when we go to sleep at night, we're all secretly dreaming that we were the ones up there on the TV screen.
Go for it. Make us laugh. Make us proud. Make us jealous.
Mike Nalbone is a music lover & guitar enthusiast. If you want to unleash & hone your vocal abilities in the privacy of your own home, Mike recommends: http://sing.dastreet.com
Mike Nalbone is the Webmaster at MikeNalbone.com - Visit Mike's site & he will show you how to earn a full-time living with affiliate marketing.Michael Nalbone may be contacted at http://www.mikenalbone.com/DADAIncome/
Marketing and Money
by Jaci Rae
As a musician, bands have it easier than a solo artist in terms of cost to make a CD. Other than that, there are little or no differences. For bands/artists who wish to start the process of making, distributing, and getting radio airplay by themselves, believe it or not, you are starting your own record label. Even if your goal is to land a major recording contract, you will still need to gather more attention for your music by cutting, distributing and promoting your own music. You’ll have a much better chance at getting a great record deal with a major label if you are successful on your own first. You may even find out that initially you can even be more financially successful on your own than if you had a record deal.
In my book, The Indie Guide To Music, Marketing and Money ISBN 978-0-9746229-4-1, I discuss how MC Hammer started out by himself. He knew the bottom line and how much he made working his record in dance clubs. When a record company approached and wanted to sign him, he initially said no. Face it, if we were offered a deal like that or any deal, most of us would be rendered speechless and simply nod our heads to say “yes.” After all, that’s the musician’s dream, right? Why did he say no? Because he knew and understood his business model. MC knew how much he made on his own, and he knew he could make a lot more money on his own than they initially offered. Eventually the record label had to meet him on his terms. They offered him a much better deal in the end.
So, how do you do what MC Hammer did? Marketing, Marketing, Marketing – and it’s not all dependent on having your own label or producing your own music. In my book, “The Ultimate Guide to Music Success” there’s a chapter of do's and don'ts for those of you who aren't interested in creating your own record label and promoting a CD yourself. It will show you the correct ways to send a demo and get heard by the A...R staff of major-labels. It also includes a truck load of fresh contacts, email addresses, phone numbers and web sites to help you on this journey.
If you are one of the lucky few and have a lot of contacts and a lot of extra money, your path will be much easier, but still not guaranteed. If you are like the rest of us, you have a limited budget, fewer contacts, and even less time to spare. What do you do?
First you need to spend some money no matter how limited your funds are. There's no way around that. You must also spend some time to start your business up and make your CD (a budget guide is also available in my book).
It's the same with contacts. You have to put yourself out there and network. You need to spend a lot of very early mornings and very late nights initially surfing the internet for information on how to find and meet the people you need to help you on your path. You will also need to attend various functions and music gatherings where the music makers meet. Remember – it’s a see and be seen world. Join your local version of the BAMM or WAMI association. These are local clubs where musicians meet on a regular basis. Many important local musicians will be members and might be there to network with. Most every major city will have some sort of club like this.
The next step is marketing. Collect all of the write-ups on yourself and your band and put them into a folder. Then based on those, you’ll need to write a one-sheet up and pass it out to the people you meet at the parties. (A one-sheet is a one page marketing tool that emphasis the important aspects of your band/act.) If writing is not your gig, find someone who writes professional one-sheets or bios on a regular basis.
Once you have those marketing tools in hand, start making appointments to audition for local clubs. Take every gig that is offered to you initially, whether you are paid for it or not, and make sure to get the most press out of that gig. If you do get paying gigs when you first start out, great! Make sure you have a contract in your hands that is signed by the person who will be paying you. In case there is a dispute, and they do arise, you have a contract spelling out whether or not you were going to be paid and how much. Although it would be nice if everyone could work on faith and trust, make sure you get your contracts written, signed and in place.
Before you sign any contracts, make sure you get a reputable entertainment attorney to look it over. NEVER sign a contract before you have followed that step. You could lose the shirt off your back and much more!
What’s next? Work it baby! Work it! This is not the time to be shy and bashful about your career. You have to grab onto every single opportunity and use it to your advantage. Unabashed marketing is what you need to do…so go for it! Just do it! No is just a word in the dictionary. It may hurt for a minute, but it’s the people that can take the “no” 50 thousand times that will get the prize in the end.
Something I recommend is to take a few courses at your local community college on Business Management and Accounting. This will help you immensely when it comes to watching your money and the bottom line. Whether you’re producing your own label and watching every penny or whether you’ve signed with a major label, you still need good accounting skills or a good accountant you can trust. With or without an accountant, it’s just good business to look at your books daily. Oprah is notorious for this and look where she is! No-one will care about your money or your success like you do.
Jaci Rae’s grit and determination brought her from a poor
childhood to become the owner of several successful corporations.
A singer and #1 Best selling author who tours around the world,
Jaci is also well known for her unique and successful marketing
strategies. Jaci is on the dating team of Savvymiss.com, the
relationship expert for lovingyou.com and is a relationship advisor
for loveisgreat.com and singlescafe.net. Jaci Rae is also a co-host
for the show Concert's in the Sky with Jesse Dylan.
Jaci Rae's latest books are, Shop for a Day with Jaci Rae –
How to Get Almost Anything for Free or Next to It and Collista's
Search for the True Meaning of Christmas. Other books are Winning
Points With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time and
The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. For more information
http://www.shopforaday.com
, http://www.grannysnaturalpopcorn.com
, http://www.winningromance.com
http://www.christmaswithlove.com
or http://www.jacirae.com
About.com Dating Guide lists Jaci's book, Winning Points
With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time in the top
six of all time dating / relationship books. http://dating.about.com/od/datingadvice/ss/RelateBooks_6.htmJaci
Rae may be contacted at http://www.jacirae.com
by Jaci Rae
When American Idol premiered in 2001, it literally changed the face of the music industry. American Idol made the public realize their voice counted and they could choose who would be the next super-star.
It was no coincidence when around that time, Indie labels and digital download sites such as iTunes and Rhapsody began to dominate sales. No longer did the public need to rely on traditional radio and brick and mortar music stores to supply them with new music. This has caused great concern inside the major record label companies.
Will major-labels recover? They might. Nevertheless, the labels know they need to revamp their systems and start looking at their talent and audiences in a new way if they want to stop being dinosaurs. I wonder when they will have a reality show that looks for the next big music executive to replace the one who passed over the latest Internet super-stars. Donald Trump has The Apprentice, perhaps I should host a show called, The Next Star Maker.
Jaci Rae’s grit and determination have brought her from an impoverished childhood to a career as an award-winning singer, No. 1 best-selling author and entrepreneur who has toured around the world. Jaci shares her down-to-earth advice as the relationship advisor/expert/dating coach for igniteromance.com, savvymiss.com, lovingyou.com, loveisgreat.com and singlescafe.net.
Jaci Rae's latest books are, Shop for a Day with Jaci Rae – How to Get Almost Anything for Free or Next to It and Collista's Search for the True Meaning of Christmas. Other books are Winning Points With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time and The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money. For more information http://www.shopforaday.com , http://www.grannysnaturalpopcorn.com , http://www.winningromance.com http://www.christmaswithlove.com or http://www.jacirae.com
About.com Dating Guide lists Jaci's book, Winning Points With The Woman In Your Life One Touchdown At A Time in the top six of all time dating / relationship books. http://dating.about.com/od/datingadvice/ss/RelateBooks_6.htmJaci Rae may be contacted at http://www.jacirae.com
Peabo Bryson,
host Keith Killgo and Ruben Studdard enjoy a laugh at the close
of the taping
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