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09 Aug 2011
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Social Media Boundaries for the Artist and Fan

Because Our Love’s That Strong

With the use of social media networks, artists have a whole new world to tap into and a means of developing their business by launching an online fan base. This is a very cool world that generates potential success for artists but it also hosts many possible dangers. I have run into many issues with social media in the music business and it also has affected my life personally because of it I have noticed that some of the social interactions found on these networks can cause real harm in the lives of artists, affecting their personal relationships.  Although my job is to help artists achieve their dreams, it is now appropriate to protect their personal lives –and even defend those they love–from poor networking decisions and the occasional disruptive fan(s).

When an artist develops a fan page, the concept is to get people to interact with them on Facebook, Twitter or other social media platforms of their choice. If the artist is an attractive one, they are obviously going to stir a lot of attention. Some of the feedback can be positive, encouraging, and innocent; on other occasions it can be rude, unwelcome, improper — even childish at times.  These situations create not only a conflict between the artist and the fan, but also potential issues affecting the spouse or significant other of the artist.

Not everyone will agree with me on this blog and that is ok, but I feel I have a considerable amount of experience in this subject.  I want to correct the misconception as follows: Many people believe an artist has to keep his personal life private if married or involved with another person, in order to keep the mystery out there.  Some think that when you are a “rock star” you get to live by different standards when it comes to flirting, online interactions, or live performance behavior. The idea is that it is always important to have an air of availability to keep people attracted and interested in you. You feel you should not offend anybody because you cannot afford to lose fans, or ticket and merchandise sales. These are the circumstances in which an artist allows inappropriate conduct via social media. The things that would not be tolerated in every day, real life.

I feel we should never act any different online than we do in public with our spouses or significant others there. If you made a decision to be in a relationship, honor that decision. There is no job in the world that allows you to treat others without consideration for their feelings.  If you are in an entertainment career, these  situations need to be discussed with each other and decisions need to be made on how to handle it. Hopefully both people can get on the same page and work it out.

We can interact with, and respond to people who are maybe a little too flirtatious in a professional manner and let them know we appreciate their interest in our music or careers rather than resort to flirting with them in return or getting ourselves into trouble. If you have a more open relationship with your partner and they don’t mind innocent flirting that is up to you, but just remember that this type of relationship doesn’t usually last forever. As an artist you should always protect yourself from the people with no moral boundaries in order to protect your personal relationships. It is completely amazing how many people send sexual or flirtatious advances to attached artists and this from both male and female fans, equally. Many of the people sending these inappropriate messages are married or involved themselves. This is wrong on so many levels I can’t even begin to explain. If you are an artist who receives these types of messages and that would probably be most of us, then politely thank them for their comments but also tell them to be respectful of your relationship and you would be more than happy to interact with them appropriately. Trust me you will earn more respect this way, not only from your fans but also from your partner.

I have been in relationships with artists that let people flirt with them. It is never easy to watch people hit on the ones you love. I watched my partner let the conversation continue even after they confronted the person about their behavior. Instead of simply blocking the person who wouldn’t stop, that one fan or CD sale was more important than my feelings. This person was even spreading lies about me to my partner and many others and my partner still kept interacting with him because the fan was nice to them and bought her CD and she didn’t want to hurt their feelings.  No matter how I felt about the constant flirting with her and her not dealing with it appropriately, it wasn’t worth it to her to deal with it in the right way and put me first. You as the artist need to decide which is more important, your career (which for most of the artists reading this really doesn’t exist yet), the fan who will never be there for you, or the one who loves you and gives everything they have to you.

When dealing with your “fans” just let me say that unless they are buying your merchandise, tickets and so forth, they are not keeping you in a career. Even if they purchase your $15.00 CD, you don’t have to put up with inappropriate behavior. You can’t be afraid to lose a fan over inappropriate conduct. For every fan you lose you will gain 100 more.

For the fans who read this, if you know the artist is married or in a relationship and you cross those boundaries, shame on you. I am pretty sure I would know how you would feel if your partner was doing the same thing to you. Grow up and act appropriately. As a fan of the artist, I would hope you would only want the best for them and to truly support them. Don’t risk someone else’s relationship for your need to flirt with someone else’s partner. That is completely disrespectful and pathetic.

Artists: use social media for its strengths but don’t get caught up in the games or risk your relationships for someone you don’t even know. Make smart decisions, be respectful to your partners and let your music do the talking. It should be more than enough to win over your fans without the need for inappropriate behavior.

Good Luck!

20 Jul 2011
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“Rubicon Cross” EP Review

R U Angry

I get the opportunity to listen to all kinds of new music, and to be honest when it comes to rock/metal over the last few years I am usually very disappointed. It seems that the art of good songwriting and melodic lines have completely gone out the window. I rarely even get to hear good playing, let alone amazing guitar solos or great vocal harmonies. So when CJ Snare, the lead singer of the Grammy award-winning rock band “Firehouse” asked me to listen to his new four song self-titled EP “Rubicon Cross” that he cowrote with “Furyon” guitarist Chris Green, I was very excited. CJ has proven in the past he knows how to write a hit song and has always excelled in the vocal department, so I had fairly high expectations when I first decided to listen to and review this EP.

I have had CJ on my radio show “Live From Music City” a number of times, he even guest hosted with me for its one year anniversary, so I wanted to make sure I was giving this a fair listen and review and not letting my personal feelings cloud my judgment. Therefore, I have taken my time and listened to this EP many, many times. With that being said, please know, I have written this review from as honest and straightforward a point of view as I can with no bias whatsoever.

The first song, “Moving On” starts with an acoustic guitar instrumental and CJ’s vocal lines setting the tone or so we think until about 50 seconds into the song when it picks up into an energetic rock song with a great guitar riff. This song does what so many of them don’t anymore; it uses dynamics very successfully and adds so much more depth and dimension to the feel and mood of the song. Chris Green’s use of space, acoustic playing remind you that there is so much more you can do with a guitar than is being done with most rock music today. The guitar tone here is perfect. It is heavy with plenty of “aunch” but also crystal clear. You can hear everything perfectly which speaks highly of Chris’s ear and the production of this song. CJ has written another lyrically solid song with a good hook and his ability to create great vocal melodies to keep the listener tuned in doesn’t fail here. The guitar solo never strays from its purpose of telling a story within a story. Chris uses octaves and melodic runs very effectively without taking away from the song or feel. Nothing about this song feels out-of-place and the overall arrangement is very strong. “Moving On” sets the tone for the rest of the EP very effectively and is a very strong effort for CJ and Chris.

Song number two, “Next Worst Enemy” starts off strong right out the gate. A heavy, fun guitar riff with a different guitar tone, and to be honest Chris’ use of varying the use of rhythmic patterns and riffs keeps the song fresh at all times. This song has “hit” written all over it, as the hook is strong! CJ brings a great growl to the song but yet keeps the vocal melodies in place and has really excelled here at bringing back the something that is missing in rock music today, fun, while not messing with the integrity of the song. It still rocks your face off and makes you want to pump your fist in the air along with it. Again Chris Green proves he belongs in the big leagues with his guitar solo. Another very melodic song within a song. He never overplays and yet shows that he has the chops to hang with anybody. That is a sign of a mature songwriter and guitar player. There is a lot to be said in that and kudos to Chris for doing exactly what the song needs and nothing else. “Next Worst Enemy” provides a great example in rhythmic syncopation, which just keeps the song punching through without ever plodding or getting lost or boring.

“R U Angry” is the third song on the EP. Starting off mellow but immediately bursting into a great rock riff then settling into a chord arpeggiation for the verse. Chris then picks it up in the pre-chorus with a faster arpeggiation before big chords, single lines and variations in the chorus. Another huge hook for the chorus with a big CJ scream sets the stage for another “I told you so” it’s all in the songwriting moment from CJ. Chris lets it all hang out in this solo. I truly wish that more guitar players would listen to Chris and learn what it means to write a great solo. Chris has brought back something sorely lacking in today’s rock music. Solos with a purpose, statement, melody and just enough flash to make you go wow! The songs are so good that sometimes you forget that they were written out of their experiences and the message shouldn’t be lost on prowess of the individuals and that is another area where CJ tops most vocalists. He keeps you engaged and emotionally tied to the songs so that you experience the meaning behind the lyrics.

“Shine” is the fourth and last song on the EP. It starts off as an acoustic ballad and harkens back to a time when songwriting was about saying something not how outrageous you can be to get attention. As good as CJ is at writing a hook, he never lets the message get lost for the sake of a hit. The song builds a bit in the second verse with addition of clean electric guitars, bass and drums. Chris plays a sweet melodic solo with the use of wah-wah pedal that thankfully sounds like someone who knows how to use it correctly. “Shine” is another solid effort from CJ and Chris that sits perfectly in their wheelhouse of good contemporary songwriting.

In summary, “Rubicon Cross” is a very good EP that should remind people of what good songwriting, talent, production and creativity should bring to the table. Every song works here, there are no filler songs taking up space. CJ and Chris have shown that they have what it takes to make great music that never goes out of style and also the chops to take their songwriting to a different level then most. That is what good song writing is, songs that paint a musical picture in one’s mind and that is exactly what “Rubicon Cross” pulls off.

You can purchase the EP here: http://ht.ly/5JTa9 

Note: At the time of this writing, The Lowry Agency has no affiliation with “Rubicon Cross”, CJ Snare, Chris Green or “Furyon.”

17 Jun 2011
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The Difference Between a Booking Agent and a Real Booking Agent

The Difference Between a Booking Agent and a Real Booking Agent

I Know The Sun Will Call

A couple of days ago I had the privilege of talking with a “booking agent” who was no longer a booking agent but had just recently told my client that they were going to be booking shows for them. There was no agreement between the two, which was good for my client in this instance. The “booking agent” had only booked one show in two years, so obviously I wanted to find out their game plan to increase their output for my client. I was hoping maybe it would start with something like waking up or getting out of bed or something that would at least start with movement as that would have seemed to been more effort than anything previously tried after two years.

When I first called, I introduced myself and simply asked the status of her relationship with my client. Did she have an agreement with my client? Did she have a game plan? Well of course no one likes to be questioned, but that is my job after all and my client’s income is of paramount importance to me, so of course I am going to ask if the “booking agent” has any plans to book my client.

Well Miss “booking agent” proceeded to tell me that she wasn’t really a booking agent anymore but more into promotions. I asked what she was promoting and why she just told my client a few weeks before she was going to be booking shows for him if she wasn’t a booking agent. She said that she was working on a couple of shows coming up and that she really just meant that she was talking about those shows with my client. I asked her why then my client is listed as her artist if she wasn’t going to book him and if she had a copy of the email agreement she said she had with my client. She replied, “Well wouldn’t it be easier if you got it from him?” Of course by this time I am beginning to have fun and you know how I like my fun with people in the business. I replied to her, “I already asked him and he doesn’t have it. However, if you are the person who sent it, you should have a copy, especially if you are professional and I asked you for one so you should send it and not pass the buck.” Of course she didn’t have a copy of it.

She kept telling me “If you look at my website…” and that she had all these connections and blah, blah, blah. It’s not my job to review their website to figure out what they do. They told my client they were going to book shows for them so that is what should be done no matter what her website says.

I wanted to tell her that her website was very bad, that it said it was booking my client for 2011 right on the top of the page and that she no dates listed for her “supposed” promotions. If you don’t have any promotions going on then you aren’t a promoter. What I did say was “Well if you have all these connections, why haven’t you been able to book my client in the last two years?” Her reply was “Well if you want me to take him off my website, I will, just let me know.” Of course I said, “That is exactly what I want.” She replied “I don’t see why it hurts to have him up there. It’s all promotion for him and makes him look better.” I said, “Please just take him down and I’ll find another booking agent.” Of course that didn’t go over well and she hung up on me. This is of course paraphrased.

To all the musicians reading this and the booking agents who are just starting out or are not doing anything for their clients, please understand this. If you are telling a musician that you will do something for them — do it! If you can’t, then be honest and let them know. You are really helping to cause the burn out and depression that artists go through because they are relying on you to do your job and you simply aren’t. It creates great frustration and makes everyone want to give up on his or her dreams. Don’t be another “professional” that doesn’t get it done and adds to the stigma we all face.

Also realize that being on your website is not promotion for the artist especially if you are not getting a ton of hits on it or if you aren’t running a social media campaign. Promotion is a verb. It means you are actively doing something consistently. Not a picture on a page no one sees. Add to that, if your website and professional image is poor quality, then you are hurting the artist not helping. Your image and professionalism reflects on them and the other professionals and fans who see it. It gives a very poor image of the level the artist is at instead of putting them in the best light possible.

If you can’t put your business and image on the same level an artists has to be at, then you are not helping. Appearance and perception is everything in the entertainment world. You run a business and if you want to achieve success you should reflect it, not have poor quality imagery. You and the artist must always show growth in this area, not stagnation.

Artists beware, it’s ok while starting out to work with people that will help you even at the begging level, but after a while if they aren’t doing anything for you or they are hurting your image then it’s time to move on. Your booking agent should have goals set to meet every month so that your goals, as well as theirs, are being met. One thing I have noticed is that if they book enough shows to pay all their bills then they quit working. They don’t think about your bills, which is actually their job. They are supposed to be making you enough income for you to make a living at this. They should have goals that meet your income needs within a realistic time frame with the other agents. If they don’t meet the goals consistently then it’s time to let go.

Just remember that we all have bad months, sometimes a couple in a row. Also you should be working with multiple agents at this level with all non-exclusive contracts. This will vary depending on length of tours and other things. If you aren’t going on tour then don’t expect them to be booking you unless you ask for a couple gigs to stay up on your skills.

Being a booking agent is a sales job. All sales jobs have sales goals. If you don’t meet your goals each day you shouldn’t stop working till you do. That’s how you make it in sales. Set some key things that have to be done everyday and you will be successful if you are consistent with your day-to-day goals.

Good luck!

04 Jun 2011
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People In The Industry Who Make A Difference

People In The Industry Who Make A Difference

Livin’ For Tomorrow

I want to take a moment to recognize people that interact with my business and that make my life a lot easier by being professional, working hard and doing it for the love of music. First and foremost, I want to thank my staff at The Lowry Agency. There is no way on this planet I could do what we do without them. I owe them everything and realize they make me look way better than I really am. I am so proud to be working with them and so very thankful for all that they do for me and for actually believing in what we do.

In a previous blog I wrote about Ray and Patti LeGrande (http://www.facebook.com/NashvilleMetalBands.) I just want to mention them again real quick because as we have gotten to know each other better, I can see I wasn’t wrong. They are not only great for the local rock/metal scene in Nashville; these are two people who truly care about everyone on a personal level. They are real, more real than most people I have ever met. I am truly blessed to call them friends first and business associates second. Thank you Ray and Patti!

One of the musicians that always steps up to the plate for me and helps is CJ Snare, the lead singer of “Firehouse” and “Rubicon Cross.” CJ has been a guest on “Live From Music City” 4 times and one of those as a co-host. A couple weeks ago, when a show was about to be cancelled, CJ stepped up to the plate with one hour and ten minutes to go, got his friend Chris Green to come on the show and knocked it out of the park again. CJ is always a great guest and such a gracious person. He truly adds a lot to every broadcast we do and it such a pleasure to have him on and we always have a blast. I have never, ever heard CJ utter a negative thing. He is as professional as they come. Thank you CJ for not being an unreachable person and looking past yourself to help others and spread your knowledge.

The one person here in Nashville that I think gets nowhere near the recognition she should is Dungeon Bonnie with Dungeon Promotions (www.dungeonpromotions.com.) This woman does so much promotion for the local scene and most definitely all for the love of music because she isn’t getting rich off of the industry here. Bonnie works harder than just about anyone I have ever scene and does it for so many bands. If one band put as much work into their career as Bonnie did in theirs, they might get somewhere. I am even more impressed because from what I see, most bands don’t appreciate her enough and really take advantage of her and yet she keeps plugging on, so here is a note to those bands. Get off your lazy butts, promote your shows that she does for you, quit ruining her reputation with your crappy online and in person behavior and work hard so that you actually get people to show up to a show she put you on so her business will grow. There is no point in her helping you if you aren’t going to take advantage of it and actually make something happen at a show she booked you on. It’s her reputation for the talent she brings in and if you don’t bring in fans, she shouldn’t be booking you anymore. And please don’t give me the its Nashville BS, Fools For Rowan kick your butts every time they play here. People, who want it, find a way to make it happen. Bonnie the Nashville rock and metal scene owe you a huge debt over the last couple years so let me thank you on behalf of them.

Bob Bender (www.bobbenderproductions.com) not only has been a guest many times on “Live From Music City,” but I have had the pleasure of listening to Bob speak at several events here in Nashville. Not only is Bob wiling to help and answer questions with people like me but also the local artist. There aren’t a whole lot people that to do that. Here’s to Bob and his willingness to help the scene grow just by being nice and always helping out the little guy!

Another person that I love working with that not only helps to get the word out with the major acts in rock and metal, but also small independent bands is Holly Jade with Metalholic Magazine (www.metalholicmagazine.com.) Holly is a great person, promoter and she also has the strength to keep pushing people in an industry where people can get burnt out real quick. Holly has also co-hosted “Live From Music City” with me once and hopefully with do it again.  Thank you Holly for all you do!

Dan Shaw with Dream Row Productions (www.dreamrow.com) has come along way in his time here with the Nashville scene. Not only has he created the “Rock Over Broadway” series at the Hard Rock Cafe, he constantly is looking to work with other professionals to take the local scene to new heights at his own expense. It has been great to get to know him and work on a few things with him. Stay tuned  for great things to come from Dream Row Productions in the near future! Dan, thank you for all your support and hard work!

So again I want to thank each and every one of you. You do make a huge difference in the music scene and I for one am a better person for knowing all of you. You make the job of The Lowry Agency a lot easier because you are top-notch professionals! Of course there are more to mention and I don’t want to leave anyone out but I will leave it for another blog.

Let’s make it happen!

04 Jun 2011
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It’s All About The Music… Or Is It?

It’s all about the music . . . Or is it?

And Fools Shine On

The great debate out there is it should be all about the music and not your image. This is true in a perfect world, but in a perfect world, people wouldn’t judge the book by its cover, all the band members would work equally as hard as the one currently doing all the work, and people would actually click on the music before seeing your pics, website or press kit. This isn’t a perfect world, not even close. Don’t get me wrong; I am not downplaying the importance of your songwriting. What I am saying is, if you think that your songwriting alone is going to be enough, then make sure you have the patience of Job. You need every advantage you can get in this business to get noticed.

Part of realizing why your image is so important is having an understanding of your core audience and understanding what the general public is looking for. Not everyone wants a deep song like Dylan would write, and not everyone likes a Lady Gaga pop tune that can be incessantly silly but catchy as hell.

Most people who go to live shows go to be entertained. Musicians sometimes forget that they are entertainers just as much as they are musicians or storytellers. Some musicians don’t have the immense musical talent others do, but they are much better entertainers, so they may have a much better selling tour than the more talented musicians. When I pay money to see a live band, I want to be entertained. I can see how talented you are by what you play, how you play, your phrasing, etc.

Most of us grew up wanting to be “Rock Stars” clutching a hairbrush microphone in front of the mirror, or playing air guitar to our favorite songs. We wanted to be larger than life. We wanted to help other people escape their busy stressful lives and transport them to a different place like all of our favorites did for us!

Most of the audience has dreamed of wanting to be that “larger than life rock star.” They look up to their favorite artists; want to get to know them. They want to spread the word about them. Well a big part of that is the image they put forward, the mystique they put out and being very cool while still somewhat accessible.

Small independent artists don’t usually have a back catalogue of hits to tour off of.  That means it’s a much harder road to book shows and win over fans. Decide what your goals are as a musician or band and then decide if you’re ok with possibly not having as many fans or not making as much money due to where your musical priorities lie, or if you’re going to be amazing entertainers who still write great songs people can related to and identify with.

There is no right or wrong here but there is reality. For artists that completely and totally have the drive like Tori Amos or Ani DeFranco to get their music out there and don’t take no for answer, you can make it in the business with non-stop hard work. But note, they both had a very distinct and defined image. For the artists that don’t have that skill set, the business mindset or a band where everyone is putting 110% forward in every aspect of growing the business, image becomes absolutely critical to set yourself apart and attract attention to you.

Here are a few hints to think about if you are going for an image. Don’t dress on stage like you are going to Wal-Mart.  Don’t wear a wife-beater tank top if you don’t have the body for it — it looks pathetic and laughable, not cool, plus no one wants to see your man boobs. Everyone in the band should look like they “fit” in the band, not half one way and the other half like they are going to go chop wood. Be original and find your own image and quit copying everyone else. If I see one more Dimebag Darrell wannabe, I’ll find another use for that very pointy guitar of yours. But most importantly, don’t skimp on your photography, artwork and press kit.  You get what you pay for, so take it very seriously and plan it out ahead of time. Know what you are doing and why you are doing it.

Good Luck!

24 May 2011
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No More Excuses!

No More Excuses!

I Lie In the Bed I Make

When I go out and watch live music, I try to be as anonymous as possible. I don’t go in telling people what I do or trying to impress anyone. I stay very quiet. I watch everything, listen to everything and notice everything. I observe very intently the musicians and how they perform, how they interact with the crowd, how they market themselves and their merchandise booths.

I am going to break this blog down a bit and address each of the above as it is all very important. This blog will be very to the point as I don’t believe in holding back and pampering people. Most of the people I run into say they have been doing this for so many years. Well if that is the case then why don’t learn from those years? Why don’t they do some research and figure things out to change the state of their current situation as an artist or a band?

One of the things that really prevail among most musicians is an attitude that the city/scene or people hold them back; that they or their band are better than everyone else’s and if someone would just give them a chance they’d make it. Granted, some cities have more dominant scenes for certain genres than others and that can provide an obstacle but that is never an excuse, it is just an obstacle to be overcome.

No one is out to stop you from making it and there aren’t any evil overlords who try to hold you back. People and politics really don’t come into play until you have made a real “buzz’ in the scene. Until then, the only thing holding you back is you and your effort, whether you are a solo artist or a band.

As I watch musicians promote their shows on social media or in person, I have to say most of the time — and I mean 95% — it is pretty pathetic. It’s always pretty much one person doing all the promoting. Most band members barely or don’t even promote on their own Facebook profiles. If they do, it’s just a couple of hours before a show, so no one even knows about it, or it’s too late to make or change plans. This is so absolutely ridiculous and there is no excuse whatsoever for it to happen. They don’t even click the “like” option on most of the posts made about them or by other band members, limiting the amount of impressions that can be had. How do people expect to make it if they won’t even promote themselves? Really?

Being in a band and telling everyone how you want to make it and make a career at it means EVERYONE has to promote ALL THE TIME. Not everyone will agree with me here but in my honest opinion, if you don’t, you have no business being in the band. You are doing nothing but holding them back. A band is a team effort; it is everyone’s responsibility to promote the music, shows, websites etc. If you aren’t willing to step outside your comfort zone and help, then step aside and let someone join the band who wants it enough to work for it. Quit posing and pretending you’re something you’re not, which is hungry and wanting to make it.

I never, ever see local bands handing out fliers for their shows. They complain about how the scene doesn’t change, yet no one is enticing new people to the shows. They sit around at the venue before the show getting stoned or hanging with the same people they always talk to. Here they are, downtown, on a strip that is completely packed with tourists all night long and they are hiding out in the venue. How does a band or solo act expect new fans when they do very little or nowhere near enough to promote? How do they expect a scene to change when they do nothing to change it?

When new people, or even old fans, don’t show up for concerts, the only ones to blame are the band. The venues advertise, the promoters advertise and do better for multiple acts even if they have no budget but the bands do almost nothing. You know what you get when you do nothing? Nothing! Get off your lazy butts and make it happen. Stop making excuses. Don’t tell me or anyone else “It’s not my thing,” or “I don’t understand how to do it.” Learn! All the resources are there and mostly free. You have no excuse whatsoever. You yourself are to blame not anyone else.

When watching the artists or bands in the crowd, they usually don’t work it at all. They talk to their friends but never approach those new people they don’t know or try to get them to stay and check out their music. They don’t engage them and develop any rapport to bring in a new fan. It is so absolutely crazy. Never have I scene such a poor job of this as of late. It’s like social media has made people forget how to be social. You are in the entertainment business. You better learn how to entertain and talk to people. It is a pre-requisite.

When I watch them on stage, their engagement with the crowd is also pretty bad. I admit, Nashville is a harder crowd, but that doesn’t matter. You should be working on your stage show at all times and getting ready for other gigs in other cities. Quit worrying about your buddies and their bands that are there. It’s your show while you are on stage, OWN it! You are supposed to be separating yourself from them, proving you have the “it” factor. Quit being like everyone else. Quit spending half your time with your back to the crowd. Quit acting like you are bored. Every gig is the most important gig of your life. You have no idea who is watching you or what opportunity could come out of this performance.

Bands need to invest in themselves. Purchase banners, poster boards, decent merchandise, and whatever else you need to grow your brand and show your professionalism, to make an impression and prove how much you want it every single time. You have to be the one the crowd remembers the most. Have people walk the crowd with your merchandise and sell it. Always have your merchandise booth manned at all times. Make sure people are wearing your shirts, especially your merchandise booth personnel. Make sure your people load and unload as quickly as possible to keep the flow going and limit the number of people who leave because you take too long to get set up. It amazes me how this isn’t completely obvious to people.

In this day and age of the artist/band being on the same playing field as everyone else, everyone has the opportunity to have the same technology, same distribution and the same marketing abilities. Truly the only thing holding you back is you and the level of effort you are willing to put into this dream of yours. So please stop making excuses and start making it happen!

Good Luck!

02 May 2011
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Success….At What Cost?

Success…. At What Cost?

by David Lowry

“Everyday” – Damon Johnson

“And the work I put between us, doesn’t keep me warm” – “The Heart of the Matter” – Don Henley

One of my goals with my blog is to not only touch on the business end of things, but also the emotional side of things. This dream you are following has a strong emotional tie to it and usually the people around you, especially your significant other or those closest to you. Something that we managers sometimes have to deal with and that no one really thinks about is the price one pays for being in the entertainment industry. All of us who chase a dream often have to sacrifice so much to achieve it, just make sure it is worth the price.

This blog is going to be a one sided look at this topic as there are so many variables to consider her such as a jealous significant other whether it be of other people or of the career itself. We aren’t going to cover that here, what we will cover is assuming that you have a good stable relationship with the love of your life, what can happen to that when you are willing to sacrifice that for a dream, especially a dream that is nowhere near coming true.

When you are an entertainer of any kind, so many issues can pop up such as jealousy, never being home and not being able to spend enough time with the one you love. In a relationship, both people sacrifice so much for one person’s dream to come true and the person who is pursuing the dream needs to keep this in mind at all times. A very serious effort needs to made to spend time together and not get lost or wrapped up in the dream so much that you emotionally abandon the one you love or that you are willing to sacrifice this person who you say you love more than anything for a dream. It is very hard to be successful at anything without the support of the one you love. It can make or break you sometimes. You know the old saying “Behind every great man, is a great woman.” or vice versa. This holds true especially in an industry that is mostly negative and involves a lot of rejection. It is also my personal opinion that success on any level really means nothing without that special someone to share it with. I have been there and for me at least it falls utterly flat in feeling compared with my being able to share it with the love of my life. Remember that your dream won’t keep you warm at night, it won’t hold you and tell you everything is alright when things are at their worst and it won’t take care of you when you are sick.

Hopefully you have a relationship where you are both on the same page and you both want the other to succeed and are completely supportive. If this is true, then with good communication then you can make it through anything. Keep your eyes on the prize, but as a team. You as the entertainer need to decide what is more important, your dream or the one you love. If it’s the dream then tell the other person now. The three most important and destructive words in the english language are “I Love You.” Don’t say this if you don’t mean or can’t act on it EVER, it doesn’t matter who you are talking too. You are just going to hurt them more when the truth comes out. Don’t let it be a shock down the road to this special person if you decide to leave them for an entertainment career as this person has most likely sunk everything they have emotionally and probably financially into you. If the dream is more important than this person, than this probably isn’t the love of your life. You may care about them, but the love of your life is one person you would sacrifice anything for including your dream. Take it from me, nothing is worse than losing the love of your life. It’s not worth it.

28 Apr 2011
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A Shining Example

A Shining Example

By David Lowry

Every once in a while someone pops up on the radar screen who shows the rest of the people in the scene around them how it should be done. It is this person who seems to “get it.” They may not do everything right, but they try and they try much harder than everyone else. Some scenes have a few such people, others have many but in the rock/metal scene in Nashville there are only a couple. Surprisingly, one of these such persons is also a musician and not just another person like me — a manager, booking agent or promoter.

Ray LeGrand popped up on my radar screen a few months ago and I have been watching him very carefully: wondering if he is for real, will he get burnt our or jaded like everyone else. Will he make excuses or will he prove that the only thing holding him back is, of course, himself. I am happy to say that, from what he has proven so far, Ray is the real deal.

Ray is the front man for “Oblivion Myth” (www.oblivionmyth.com), a local Nashville metal band that just won a contest (by a landslide) to be on “Live From Music City.” As a matter of fact, it was Ray and his incredible wife Patti that woke up the rest of the Nashville rock/metal scene to the contest. Ray and his wife got so many votes I was thoroughly and entirely impressed, especially with all the other long established bands in the running.

Ray and his wife Patti started up a movement in Nashville called “Nashville Metal Bands”  (http://www.facebook.com/NashvilleMetalBands?sk=info). Ray unselfishly promotes all metal bands in Nashville, not just his own. He works tirelessly with the help of Patti to make a difference — a major difference — in the local rock/metal scene. Ray works full time, is a husband, father, front man and runs “Nashville Metal Bands.” He does more in a day for the music scene here locally than just about any other band does for themselves in months. Ray proves there is no excuse why you can’t get things done or because you don’t have enough time. Ray possesses a fire not only for his band, but the local scene and has a dream and a goal that he won’t give up till he gets there.

Ray and Patti are constantly learning and most importantly applying what they have learned immediately. It is so much fun to watch and, in some small way, hope that “Live From Music City” or even our meeting together may have had a small part in this. Ray and Patti provide an excitement that this local scene so severely needs. If more people would learn from Ray, we would have a much different scene, a much more productive scene and the local artists would be much farther along in their dreams.

I have had the privilege of meeting both Ray and Patti and can tell you it is an honor to call them friends. I know Ray couldn’t do what he does without a strong supportive wife like Patti behind him. It is truly a team effort. When you see them, please stop and say thank you for what they are doing, especially if they are promoting your band or music. Most importantly, stop and look at what they are doing and learn from it. I know I do.

20 Apr 2011
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What is the Product?

What is the Product?

Leave It All Behind

Meeting after meeting, artists tell me they need to record a new CD, or are just about to record, or are in the process of recording one. The first question I ask is “Great! What are you going to do with it?”

They look at me dumbfounded as if I am stupid. “Well we are gonna try and sell it of course” they say.

“To who?” I ask. “Well, our fans” is the usual response.

“What fans?” I ask probing further. “You mean the 176 fans on your twitter account?” “The same 30 fans that keep coming to your shows in the same city that you never get out of?”

“What are you going to do with the rest of the CD’s that are sitting in your garage after you sell 50 of them and have run out of fans?”

“What is your marketing plan?” “Who are you going to distribute it through?” “Better yet, why are you recording a CD for a fan base that doesn’t exist yet?”

“Do you have a provable demand for new music that will at least allow you to recover the investment cost of making the new CD?” 99% of the time the is of course “No.”

Needless to say from a business standpoint this is bad business. You don’t invest money into something that you have no idea or plan to make money/a profit on.

My point is: If you haven’t developed a sizeable fan base from shows and social media, you have no need for a CD until there is an actual demand for it or at least a big enough fan base to market it to. Let’s say you have a CD but you have only managed to sell 100 copies of it and you still have plenty left over. Don’t you think you should sell those first before making a new CD?

Obviously at this point you still don’t have a demand for your music, so why do you need a new CD? Your current CD still hasn’t been heard by anyone yet, so it isn’t old music to anyone but you. Wouldn’t it make more sense for you to focus on developing a demand for new music by selling your current CD and generating a fan base who actually want to purchase it?

You need to resist the “artist” urge or need to create before it is time. That doesn’t mean stop writing, it means don’t pay for something you can’t sell. Don’t be fooled by the numbers on your social media accounts. I am talking about actual true fans, not just people who follow you because you followed them or because you bought a program to add followers.

The first thing the artist needs to realize is the CD is NOT the product; it’s a piece of merchandise. TheARTIST is the product. The artist has to create the demand for themselves/live performance before sinking a ton of money into multiple CDs, let alone one CD.

You can have t-shirts and other things to sell as merchandise through a developing rabid fan base that actually wants to purchase your merchandise. This will help keep costs down. The priority is developing the artist not the CD. The artist should be working on his/her/their image, social media campaign, the best live show possible and booking only. Once this has achieved a certain level, the artist can then worry about a CD that their fan base will demand. Bottom line is that if no one wants to see you live, you have no need for anything. You have to make them want to see you live and want to make the purchase. That comes from a killer live show. Practice, practice, practice, write killer songs that have a hook and melody and blow them away onstage. Period.

The proof is in the pudding with the live show. You have to win over the audience and develop them into fans. If you do this, they will stay fans and will buy your CD when you finally do release it. Not only that, you will have a nice building up to — and can actually pull off — a great “launch” and have impressive stats from the fan base that is actually demanding and waiting for this merchandise.

“Jesse James Dupree” of “Jackyl” was on my radio show “Live From Music City” and flat out said (which I wholeheartedly agree with) that they didn’t approach anybody in the business or do anything until the were constantly selling out shows at the bars they played all up and down the east coast. That was when they had a need for a team and were ready to shop for a record deal. Then they could take their pick of labels because all the labels wanted them. It was the single best piece of advice on my show ever. Here is the interview for you to listen to: http://ht.ly/4EErD. There is simply no need for much of what most artists THINK they need until there is a demand for the artist themselves.

Simply put, if the artist would focus on the essentials; booking, image, developing a fan base and PR the rest would take care of itself. Everyone wants to do it backwards; they want everything now and have no patience. Business doesn’t work that way and when you work harder and not smarter you tend to not succeed and also are in danger of completely burning yourself out.

A simple strategy you can adopt is to record two or three songs that you can offer on digital download to tide people over until there is a need for a CD and that you can use to help market yourself with.

You can make a couple of videos to put on YouTube that should be very high quality. Rehearse your band till they are perfect and then pay a professional company to video record your performance of these songs at a good venue with a sound man who knows your sound.

Put them up as single songs and market the heck out of it with social media. YouTube is the destination spot for new music discoveries now. This is a much smarter use of your money. This not only allows for people to discover you, but share your music. Most importantly, assuming you play very well live, you can use this to show venues that you are worth booking based on the crowd in front of you and your actual performance and stage presence.

Develop the artist first then once you have a fan base you can create a CD to sell. No point paying for something you can’t sell to anyone. Be strategic in your plans and definitely plan! Don’t just do something without thought of the benefit of it and how you will get it out there.

Good Luck!

18 Apr 2011
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Review of the CD “212” from Neil Zaza

Review of the CD “212” from Neil Zaza

Review by David Lowry

Recently I have had the pleasure of interviewing guitar virtuoso Neil Zaza on “Live From Music City,” about the release of his new CD “212.” Having known about Zaza’s work in the past, I was eager to hear the new music. In my opinion, it’s hard to find a guitar instrumentalist that has his own “voice” and composes songs and melodies in such a rare way that as a listener, you don’t need to hear a vocalist to completely enjoy the music. Zaza is that sort of guitar player. Zaza likes to play in major keys to keep the music sounding positive and happy, which I think is great, as most rock guitar players primarily play in minor tonalities. It’s a real experience to put on the headphones and be bombarded with such expressive and amazing songs.

Starting with the first track “Magnus,” Zaza pulls out all the stops. With a huge arrangement for a short song that is basically an intro, it is big, majestic and a gorgeous piece of music.

The next song “Go!” is jumped right into from the previous track and hits you with a lively beat and never lets you go! It’s like being on a rollercoaster on a clear sunny day. The melody wins here, as it keeps you singing along with it.

“King of The World” changes the feel a bit with an opening of jangly guitars and a soaring melody line that sweeps you off your feet. It is a fine, mid-tempo song with great dynamic breaks and, as always, Zaza’s tasty playing.

“Is This Wonderland?” opens with a whimsical keyboard and a softer guitar line to follow with less distortion. It leads into a more full instrumental track with a nice slow feel that makes you just want to sit back and take it all in.

“To The Moon and Back” sets you into a nice slow groove with very little instrumentation to start before coming in with some big hits. Again the melody lifts you up and takes you places that most music never will.

“Baroque Sky” opens with a melancholy feel before pulling you in with very deep melodic tones and big guitar chords. Zaza never allows the music to do anything but keep you totally enthralled with what the melody line is doing. The chorus builds with huge guitars and ascending notes and brings you back down gently to let your ears appreciate what they just experienced.

“If This is Goodbye” starts with a single jangly guitar and simple melody line. With a bit more of a bluesy feel, it’s a departure from the other tracks and so tastefully done. The organ provides a nice back drop for the guitar to play against, the rhythm perfectly in the pocket. Then Bam! Out of nowhere comes Zaza with a huge melody line. His use of dynamics is the sign of a great arranger and it shows on this song.

“Wild Horses” comes in with a drum groove and a drone guitar before the melody accompanies it. It’s very simple and beautiful. Arpeggiated guitars fill it out and the song gets a boost from the rhythm section. Zaza’s use of laying guitars stands out and the melody provides a bounce in your step for this fun stop. With flashes of speed and mostly just really well played melody lines, “Wild Horses” makes you feel like you are out there with them.

“The Beauty” starts with a finger picked clean guitar and Zaza laying a melody line over it with just a touch more gain. The song lives up to its name as it lulls you in with a sweet soft melody and then brings you up to a new height with its chorus. Harmony lines peppered throughout this song complete this beautiful romantic piece and makes you want to take that special someone for a long walk and remember why you are with them in the first place.

Next up is a cover of The Police’s “Message In A Bottle” which is a refreshing take on the original. While a bit of a heavier feel, it’s very playful and never loses the sense of what the original brought. Zaza captures the melody perfectly, you don’t miss the vocals at all. This is very well done and shows just how well he is able to capture the spirit of the song and make it even better!

Finally, Zaza gives us his version of Ah-Ha’s “Take On Me.” A fun cover that actually made me like this song again after all the overplay it got. He has a knack for taking familiar songs and making them very fresh and exciting.

In summary, “212” is an outstanding musical effort from Neil Zaza. Mr. Zaza is the type of player that knows exactly what to play, when to play it and never over does it. He is incredibly melodic and a very mature songwriter and each song on this CD showcases that. One of the best instrumental albums I have heard in years and on par with the other greats of this genre such as Andy Timmons, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai. 5 out of 5 stars!

Note: At the time of this writing, The Lowry Agency has no affiliation with Neil Zaza.