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LOS ANGELES, Dec. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- "1, 2, 3, 4"....that's right, 4 Grammy nominations for Feist today for the 50th Annual Grammy Awards celebration taking place February 10th in Los Angeles.
'1, 2, 3, 4'....That's Right, 4 Grammy Nominations for Feist. (PRNewsFoto/Cherry Tree/Interscope) Feist was nominated in the following categories: Best New Artist Best Pop Vocal Album Best Female Pop Vocal Best Short Form Music Video
The Grammy Awards -- appropriately dubbed their Golden Anniversary -- will be held February 10 in Los Angeles and broadcast live on CBS.
Source: Cherry Tree/Interscope
by Lionel Wayne
Helping new entertainers and musicians drive their careers to new and increased levels of profitability. The Music Media Entertainment Group wishes to bring new talent to the public. Our approach is to provide an internet based community that nurtures and supports the creative talent of our clients and assists them in realizing their career goals. We serve you a world of entertainment, check this out: • Lots of free articles and free audio tutorials focused on helping you get more exposure. • Our music Sponsorship Blog with tips and articles on finding sponsors and getting money for your band. • A webmaster Resource Area containing all the tools, scripts and resources we have used to successfully generate huge amounts of traffic to our website. • A complete suite of web design services tailored to the special needs and budgets of aspiring musicians. Complete with all the tools, and marketing services to ensure you get massive exposure for your music. • A music piracy section with information and resources for musicians wishing to protect their music from online theft. • A resource section featuring links to our affiliate web sites, a music glossary, software downloads, and our blog. • A comprehensive musicians resource directory featuring links to web sites of special interest to musicians, and bands wishing to break into the music industry. • All that and MUCH MORE! Our professional staff are here to help you break into the big time. Keep your audience coming back and have them spend their money on your music.
Lionel Wayne, President Music Media Entertainment Group Placing the tools for success in the palm of your hand' Visit http://www.musicmediaentertainmentgroup.com and get our "Free tips to music Industry Success" newsletter.Lionel Wayne may be contacted at http://www.musicmediaentertainmentgroup.com/
by Jason Cole
Radio has been lagging for some years now, seeming to be a dinosaur compared to streaming internet radio, podcasting, XM satellite radio, and the plethora of other technologies that have reared their heads in the past 10 years. One of these new technologies is basically the same thing as old-school AM/FM radio, and that is internet radio. They both serve the same basic function, except with internet radio, you can set up your own station and play the music you want to play. I find this to be really exciting. So, with this knowledge in hand, how would one go about setting up their own internet radio station?
Internet radio stations use streaming audio technology to deliver audio content to your listeners. Basically, streaming audio is a more efficient and effective solution for delivering audio content. Instead of someone having to download the full audio file to listen to it, it is “streamed” off of a server so the end user can listen to the content live instead of having the file’s data stored on their computer. There are special servers that deliver streaming media, and most ISPs have streaming media abilities, so you need to ask your internet provider first to make sure that you’ll be able to do so.
This tutorial is concerned with setting up and working a internet radio station utilizing pre-recorded content. (You can also broadcast live, but that’s another tutorial in itself.) So, let’s jump right into what hardware you’ll need to get going.
Gear you’ll need to get going:
1. CD Player – You’ll most likely be using and audio player on your computer, such as Real Player. You can set-up your playlist as you see fit. Some ISPs offer streaming radio services that utilize your media player playlist to figure out what you want played, and when to play it. You will need to check with your ISP to find out the details, as every one is different.
2. CD ripping software (To gather your audio files) – I personally use Windows Media Player to rip my audio cds, it seems to be the easiest I’ve come across. Please keep in mind that there are special rules for broadcasting copyrighted content, and you will be liable if you broadcast any copyrighted content.
3. Audio editing software – If you decide to record anything yourself, station identification bits and the like, you’ll need a microphone too. I use Sony Soundforge for any audio editing, as it’s a very simple, intuitive program. This will also benefit you if you’d like to censor any of the songs, or add anything to them. It also helps out if you want to cut down on the song’s file sizes. You can pull a .wav file into Soundforge and output a compressed MP3 file in seconds.
4. A standard hosting account with an ISP – Every ISP is different, so you’ll have to check with yours. All you really need to ask is if they support streaming internet radio, and if they do, you’re good to go.
This is a very simplified guide to setting up and internet radio station, but it should be an adequate primer if you have no knowledge of streaming internet radio. There are many programs out there, free and paid, that will help you get the job done too. There is a great repository of resources over at http://www.webdevelopersjournal.com/software/multimedia_goodies.html that I suggest you check out. Anyways, I learned a lot writing this article, I hope you learned just as much reading it.
Jason Cole and DiskFaktory Jams offer free downloadable music videos and music lyrics. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting DFJams.com. Jason Cole may be contacted at http://www.diskfaktory.com or jason@diskfaktory.com
by Jason Cole
If you have been recording or producing music via a computer, you may have heard the term VST. What is VST and how does it figure in to playing, recording, and editing music?
What is VST? VST, Virtual Studio Technology, is an interface standard for connecting synthesizers and effects to audio editors and recording systems. Invented and developed by Steinberg, makers of the Cubase audio recording programs; VST replaces traditional audio recording hardware with software equivalents. So instead of having to route your audio out of your computer into your hardware effects units and then back into your computer, all the routing is done internally. If you have a powerful enough computer, you can do real time effects processing, utilizing either a MIDI controller or through envelope tweaks using MIDI.
There are 2 different types of VST plug-ins, with thousands of different varities, making it the most widely used plug-in type. The 2 main types are:
VST instruments – Also know as a VSTi, they take the form of synthesizers and sampler units. They can be played in real time, or also used in conjunction with MIDI for live performance. They are basically a software version of a piece of hardware. I have and use the Master Hammond B3 VST soft synth very often, which is the software version of the Hammond organ. Let me tell you, lugging the soft synth version of the B3 around in my laptop is a whole lot easier than having to carry around the hardware version!
VST effects – VST effects are used to process audio, like any other type of audio effect. These can also be used in real time, most effectively when coupled with an appropriate low-latency soundcard. There are VST equivalents to every type of audio effect available as hardware. I use all of the standard VST effects that come with Cubase SX, plus quite a few standalone units as well. One great VST effects bundle is the WaveLab 6 package offered by Steinberg.
VST instruments and effects must be used in conjunction with a VST host to be used at all. A VST host is usually a software application or a hardware device. I use Cubase SX as a host for my VST instruments and effects, and I recommend the program not just for its VST support. As a multi-track recording program that supports MIDI and VST technologies, there aren’t many other programs out there as robust and user-friendly as Cubase SX.
As a computer savvy musician, if you aren’t familiar with VST technology, I suggest that you get acquainted. It will cut down on your equipment costs and potentially streamline your recording and editing processes.
Jason Cole and DiskFaktory Jams offer free MP3 downloads and music lyrics. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting DFJams.com.
Jason Cole and DiskFaktory offer great tips and information regarding CD DVD Duplication Get the information you are seeking now by visiting http://www.diskfaktory.com/tips/CD-duplication-tutorials.aspJason Cole may be contacted at http://www.diskfaktory.com or jason@diskfaktory.com
by Chyna Dolores
This is Part three of my Lyric Writing guide. Here you will learn how to accompany words by using samples and ghost songs.
AUTHORS NOTE: I don’t personally use this method of song writing. I don’t write rap music and don’t listen to enough of this form to have a deeper understanding of the writing process. I do, however, use a slightly different technique that I will try to explain in the Hints and Tips section of this article. What you will find below is my observations of this form of writing. If you do find any errors in my explanation please let me know and I’ll edit accordingly.
What is it?
Sampling refers to the taking of a portion of an already established track and using it as the framework for a new song. This is generally used to serve as the foundation for a rap vocal. There are actually two styles of sampling:
1) The most popular form of sampling takes a part of a track, hence the name ‘sample’. It usually takes a specific beat from a song [most common samples are taken from drum or bass tracks], though you can use a ‘vocal’ sample for your “new” song.
* For an example of sampling just listen to any rap, dance or rave song, they all make use of samples.
* For an example of vocal sampling, take a look at Eminem’s song “Stan”. It uses a vocal sample from Dido’s song “Thank-you”.
2) The second kind of sampling is not as commonly used. It generally takes the entire melodic track of a pre-existing song and creates a completely new lyric for the song. This form of sampling is also known as a ghost song/track. This form of song writing should not be mistaken for alternate lyrics, as you need to totally disregard the lyrical arrangement of the song and focus on the remaining melody.
* The Puff Daddy song “Come With Me” from the Godzilla soundtrack is a sample, or ghost song, of Led Zepplin’s “Kashmir”. You will notice that the lyrical arrangement of the original song has been completely abandoned in this ‘new’ track, which is the main difference between a ghost song and alternate lyrics.
* The Limp Bizkit song “Take A Look Around” is a slightly different style of a ghost song. It takes its sample from a melodic piece, the most well known part of the Mission Impossible theme. If I remember correctly they were actually commissioned to ‘write’ this song. This serves as a reminder that any kind of melody can be adapted to use for a song.
Why use ghost songs
We all know that sampling is mainly used in rap, dance and techno music. Reasons for this vary, and I’m not entirely sure as to the exact reasoning for it. I don’t generally listen to these styles of music, I don’t write it, so I can’t honestly comment on that aspect of sampling. I can, however, tell you about the use of these techniques.
Many inexperienced songwriters make the mistake of trying to write lyrics without music. I can’t stress enough how important it is to work with a tune when writing lyrics. If you don’t work with a tune, it will show. The inability to play a musical instrument is no excuse, that is what ghost songs are for.
Getting Started
This section will deal solely with ghost songs as I’ve stated before, I don’t know enough about this form of song writing to comment effectively on it.
First you will need to find a song, choose one that you are comfortable with and preferably one in a genre you are familiar with. Try to pick a song whose lyrics you don’t know by heart, it will make it easier to ignore the lyric arrangement. Play this song until you are familiar with the melody and can hum it to yourself.
Remember: You need to ignore the lyrical portion of this song, if possible get a copy of just the melodic arrangement. If you don’t think that you can ignore the lyrics make a recording of the music yourself, if you don’t play an instrument see if a friend can do it for you.
What are you going to write about? It is important that you have a clear idea of what you want to say in your song. What do you want to say? What message do you want to leave the listener to leave with? Jot down any ideas or thoughts that occur. Try using the word association exercises found in Part 1 of this series to help extend on your ideas.
Start to feel the music, add some lyrics to places you feel comfortable doing so. If need be just sing “la la la” [or something similar] where you feel lyrics need to go, you can always add the actual lyrics at a later point in date. What you are doing here is starting the lyrical arrangement, play around with it see what fits, what doesn’t. Don’t expect it to be perfect the first time, there is nothing wrong with trial and error. Don’t forget to keep the tune in your head or play it often to ensure that your lyrics follow the basic beat of the track.
As with I’ve stated before, I can’t give you the exact formula to writing lyrics. It is a personal thing, everyone is different in how they write. Everyone has their own unique styles and methods. If you have attempted to write alternate lyrics you will have an understanding of how to combine your words with a melody. You will need to apply this knowledge to your ghost song. Read over the Alternate Lyrics article to refresh your memory and keep some of these pointers in mind.
Hints and Tips
# Try to match what you what to say [i.e. your lyrics] with the music. For example if you are writing a happy, upbeat song, you will need to find music that has a faster tempo [speed/beat] than that of a sad song or a ballad.
# You don’t need to keep the ghost song exactly as is. If there is a specific part you would like to keep over the rest of the song, change an instrument or make the melody sound ‘heavier’ or ‘softer’ – then by all means do it. Play around with the drums and bass, if the ghost song ends up becoming a normal sample or disappears completely, that’s okay - there is nothing wrong with that. All it shows is your greater understanding and advancement in song writing.
* -- * For example the Guns n’ Roses song “Sweet Child of Mine” underwent a drastic change when it was covered by Sheryl Crow [from rock to acoustic]. This example is not a ghost song but a cover. It is, however, an example of how you can go about altering a melody. Other examples of this can be found in Part 1 of the series.
# Your sample does not have to come from a well know or successful track. Any song you feel is right to work with is a possibility, whether it comes from an obscure b-side track by a relatively unheard of band or even a sample of one of your own existing songs
# Want to try something different? There are many software programs available that are capable of generating melody and rhythm tracks for you. Many of these programs are either downloadable from the ‘net or have free demos available for you to use.
* -- * Ejay is a program specifically designed for rap, dance and rave music, though it can easily be applied to the basics of other musical genres to give you a feel for the melody or beat of a song in order to get the lyrics started. You are also able to download a variety of new samples from the website to expand on the existing choices [visit http://www.ejay.com to take a look at the program]. This is only one program; there are others out there if you are willing to look for them.
# As I stated at the beginning of this article, I don’t exactly use ghost songs. What I use is a similar process but it doesn’t have an actual track or beat for you to listen and follow. It is a harder technique and probably shouldn’t be attempted unless you have a deeper understanding of how music is put together or are able to create a tune in your own head. I’m not entirely sure if I can explain it correctly or coherently but I’ll try my best [let me know if you don’t understand it]
How does it work? Say, for example, I want to write a song in the vein of a Korn song. Instead of finding a song by this artist I could use as a ghost track [or even sample their work] I call to mind how their songs sound while I write the lyrics for my song. This can really only work properly if you are able to create and hold a tune in your head while working and applying it to the draft to your lyric.
This form of song writing gives you a little more freedom then samples or ghost tracks when it comes time to create/add the instrumental background to your song. By using this technique you allow yourself the freedom to mix different genres together or change the basic sound of the song with minimal effort. Even though I started with the basic sound of a Korn track, I have the freedom to expand on the idea. The final result may have more of a Linkin Park sound or more of a Marilyn Manson sound to it, possibly even a mixed of all these artists. This song writing technique allows you to explore and find your own voice. Sometimes the lyric portion of the song will need some altering, other times not, it all really depends on how the music alters from the original idea.
* -- * For example, my piece Forsaken [http://www2.writing.com/main/view_item/item_id/716277] was written using this technique. Although it started [and has thus far remained] heavily influenced by Disturbed and Korn, there is the possibility that it may change slightly from this form. I have been told by some people that they felt it may have been more in the vein of Creed or possibly a mixture of the two styles, which is a drastic change from the original idea/style of the song. Personally, I don’t see that connection but it shows how genre swapping can occur.
* * * * * * * * * *
The inability to play an instrument should not affect you song writing abilities. By using a ghost song or sample you are able to create a basic framework for your song. This track does not necessarily mean that it is the final draft of your song, it may simply be a rough draft, or a guide for how the lyric portion should sound. The final ‘draft’ of the song may not occur until much later when you collaborate with your band or another artist who you are working with. As with any sort of writing, re-writes are inevitable. Don’t expect your work to be ‘perfect’ first time round.
As with alternate lyrics, the use of sampling and ghost songs can be an excellent tool for learning the techniques of song writing. By utilizing these two forms of song writing, you should be able to see how to accompany words with music. When you feel comfortable enough with these two forms of song writing try using my form of a ghost track or even try your hand at writing your own music [or collaborate with a friend].
Look out for Part 4 of this series where you will learn about hooks and other writing tips for when you start to write.
Chyna Dolores is an author on http://www.Writing.Com which is a site for Creative Writing. You can view her personal work at http://www.chyna_doll.writing.comChyna Dolores may be contacted at http://www.fabbodies.com
Mariah Carey's Single "We Belong Together" Returns to Billboard Number 1 Spot
6-30-05. Bo Bice has the top-selling single (Billboard's Hot Singles Sales chart) in the U.S with his version of "Inside Your Heaven," a song that took American Idol winner Carrie Underwood to the number one spot last week. His double A-sided RCA single also includes the Ides of March's "Vehicle." He also holds the number one spot on the Pop 100 (Carey's 2 and Underwood's 3), the first solo male artist in the short history of this chart to reach that spot. Bice's single had very healthy sales; however, lacked radio airplay, especially in light of the record-setting airply level attained by Carey's "We Belong Together." Underwood was number one on the Hot 100, Pop 100, Hot Singles Sales, and Country Singles Sales charts.
In total, there have now been 64 number ones by American Idol singers: Kelly Clarkson (18), Ruben Studdard (10), Clay Aiken (8), Fantasia (6), Josh Gracin (6), Carrie Underwood (4), Bo Bice (2), Kimberly Locke (2), Diana DeGarmo (1), Tamyra Gray (1), William Hung (1), and American Idol Finalists (5).
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