Great new album from this wonderful NYC songstress!!
Get the album:: HERE!!
follow me:: Pete Carma
Sunday
Kayce Laine, 'The Kids' New Video From The Album 'Lucid'
KAYCE LAINE just released video 'The Kids' Enjoy.
Great new album from this wonderful NYC songstress!!
Get the album:: HERE!!
follow me:: Pete Carma
Great new album from this wonderful NYC songstress!!
Get the album:: HERE!!
follow me:: Pete Carma
StreetcredMusic, Pete Carma...My 2cents Part lll 'Stayin' Alive'
Part lll. 'Stayin' Alive'.
With the attention span of Americans now about 20 seconds, you indie musicians better take note. Pardon the pun.
If you come on stage with a raggedy ass band, who think they are doing the audience a favor by showing up, you're done from jump street. If you have a crack in your armor, failure will seek it out and destroy you, for that gig anyway.
"Thanks to all who came out to my show last night"...On facebook, won't cut it, either.
I know I'm probably beating a dead horse here, but I feel if I did not say anything, I will be contributing to this 'problem'~ 'trend'~ 'epidemic', call it whatever.
I have sat with Fred Ebb, Liza Minelli, and Burt Bacharach, (he's weird, like really weird) and watched them put staged musical numbers together. I know, I know, they have resources far beyond the indie artists in Greenwich Village. BUT~~~~
The young artist has their feet, their mouth, their instrument, their wardrobe, their music, and the people on stage with them. They are YOUR resources! Use them!!
*********************************************
Why is MaryC consistently able to electrify audiences from the stage...Yeah, she has a stage presents beyond the norm, and her mom would kick her butt if she gave a poor showing, but she also does it with leadership and organization. Why is she able to have a cover at all her shows and still pack em in?? Watch this video:: no slackers! 'MaryC medley'
....everyone on that stage has a mission:: Entertain, and support the lead!!
...They are not there to play some chords and have a beer sitting on the piano.
Getting back To Ebb, Liza etal....I remember once Donna Summer was sound checking, it was a tour gig in NYC and her musicians were new, as they sound checked she walked the front of the stage and looked at what the audience would see...prior to the sound check she told them all to perform as if it were show time. She had a mic in her hand so all could hear her, she stopped the band, and said to the drummer.."do you know I have 3 tunes in the top 40 now'...she said, "the audience made that happen, they are coming here to be entertained, so get with it".
They are all superstars and paid attention to every detail on the stage, and so should YOU!
Little League baseball or major league, the goal is the same do all you can to play together and put your best effort out there.
Remember, yeah you have a degree in music, continuing education..you rehearse you write, compose,
but don't forget you are in the entertainment business.
....here's another example of engaging the audience with your music, a personal touch, and everyone on the same page!!
Video, Enjoy::Yula&TheXFM
I also know some of you don't pay your band members....you guys have a tough sell, to get them motivated...But if you do, get them in line.
I realized I picked two of the very best out there, to use as examples MaryC and Yula Beeri
........but you can catch up!!
Stay Alive
'My2cents' Parts 1 & 2..HERE 1&2
Follow:: Yula and the XFM
Follow:: MaryC and the Stellars
follow me:: Pete Carma
With the attention span of Americans now about 20 seconds, you indie musicians better take note. Pardon the pun.
If you come on stage with a raggedy ass band, who think they are doing the audience a favor by showing up, you're done from jump street. If you have a crack in your armor, failure will seek it out and destroy you, for that gig anyway.
"Thanks to all who came out to my show last night"...On facebook, won't cut it, either.
I know I'm probably beating a dead horse here, but I feel if I did not say anything, I will be contributing to this 'problem'~ 'trend'~ 'epidemic', call it whatever.
I have sat with Fred Ebb, Liza Minelli, and Burt Bacharach, (he's weird, like really weird) and watched them put staged musical numbers together. I know, I know, they have resources far beyond the indie artists in Greenwich Village. BUT~~~~
The young artist has their feet, their mouth, their instrument, their wardrobe, their music, and the people on stage with them. They are YOUR resources! Use them!!
*********************************************
Why is MaryC consistently able to electrify audiences from the stage...Yeah, she has a stage presents beyond the norm, and her mom would kick her butt if she gave a poor showing, but she also does it with leadership and organization. Why is she able to have a cover at all her shows and still pack em in?? Watch this video:: no slackers! 'MaryC medley'
....everyone on that stage has a mission:: Entertain, and support the lead!!
...They are not there to play some chords and have a beer sitting on the piano.
 |
| MaryC and the Stellars |
Getting back To Ebb, Liza etal....I remember once Donna Summer was sound checking, it was a tour gig in NYC and her musicians were new, as they sound checked she walked the front of the stage and looked at what the audience would see...prior to the sound check she told them all to perform as if it were show time. She had a mic in her hand so all could hear her, she stopped the band, and said to the drummer.."do you know I have 3 tunes in the top 40 now'...she said, "the audience made that happen, they are coming here to be entertained, so get with it".
They are all superstars and paid attention to every detail on the stage, and so should YOU!
Little League baseball or major league, the goal is the same do all you can to play together and put your best effort out there.
Remember, yeah you have a degree in music, continuing education..you rehearse you write, compose,
but don't forget you are in the entertainment business.
....here's another example of engaging the audience with your music, a personal touch, and everyone on the same page!!
Video, Enjoy::Yula&TheXFM
 |
| Yula and the eXtended Family |
I realized I picked two of the very best out there, to use as examples MaryC and Yula Beeri
........but you can catch up!!
Stay Alive
'My2cents' Parts 1 & 2..HERE 1&2
Follow:: Yula and the XFM
Follow:: MaryC and the Stellars
follow me:: Pete Carma
Tuesday
Latin 'World' Music' ~Eleanora Bianchini, Ivete Sangalo, Rosa Passos
I met Eleanora Bianchini in New York City a few years ago, and she introduced me to her 'Latin World' music. World being the key word....here's a bit of it and how much love is attached....
Enjoy this video of Eleanora and the legendary Brazilian songstress Rosa Passos
Originally from Perugia, Italy, Eleonora Bianchini is an Italian singer who creates a warm and charming atmosphere through the sound of her voice. She is inspired by many Brazilian and Latin American artists such as Rosa Passos, Djavan, Caetano Veloso, Mayte Martin and Eva Ayllon; they have all greatly influenced her music, and it is thanks to their art, that she has discovered a secret place inside herself where a passion for Latin music has always existed.
**********************************************
Ivete Sangalo:
... is a Latin Grammy Award-winning Brazilian singer, songwriter, and occasional actress and television show host. She is one of the most popular and best-selling Brazilian female singers of the present, with six albums released with "Banda Eva",and seven more albums in a solo career. Sangalo is most often recognized by her powerful voice, charisma and live performances. Her music is also very popular in Portugal.
Video::Enjoy Ivete here again, with the wonderful:: Rosa Passos
follow:: Eleanora Bianchini
Follow me::Pete Carma
Enjoy this video of Eleanora and the legendary Brazilian songstress Rosa Passos
Originally from Perugia, Italy, Eleonora Bianchini is an Italian singer who creates a warm and charming atmosphere through the sound of her voice. She is inspired by many Brazilian and Latin American artists such as Rosa Passos, Djavan, Caetano Veloso, Mayte Martin and Eva Ayllon; they have all greatly influenced her music, and it is thanks to their art, that she has discovered a secret place inside herself where a passion for Latin music has always existed.
**********************************************
... is a Latin Grammy Award-winning Brazilian singer, songwriter, and occasional actress and television show host. She is one of the most popular and best-selling Brazilian female singers of the present, with six albums released with "Banda Eva",and seven more albums in a solo career. Sangalo is most often recognized by her powerful voice, charisma and live performances. Her music is also very popular in Portugal.
Video::Enjoy Ivete here again, with the wonderful:: Rosa Passos
follow:: Eleanora Bianchini
Follow me::Pete Carma
Friday
'Pictures of Us'...The Follow up CD by Kosi
Can a person be bold and polite? Can their music supersede what traditional blues emanate, and go deeper, with universal appeal.
Yeah...Kosi can. This wonderfully unique young woman, is for 'my2cents' the best new indie artist I have heard in my four years of supporting artists with my blog.
I recognized her previous CD, 'One More Cup Of Coffee' as the best new CD of 2013.
I spoke with her about the follow up: 'Pictures Of Us' ...Enjoy~~
Video Kosi interview::
'Pictures of Us' has everything JAZZZZ is about. From the opening tune, 'Wild Is The Wind' which features the sexy flugelhorn passages of Angeleisha Rodgers, and the vocal story telling of Kosi.
'Star Crossed Lovers' is an astrological trip on Kosi's vocal magic, kept above the stratosphere by the guitar of Aron Marchak and bass bottom of Julian Smith.
********************
"Times I made you cry....times you made me hate you....times I'd wonder why
we kept these pictures of the past...these cocktails in a broken glass".....
That's the up tempo title tune...'Pictures Of Us' ...
'Your Angel' is the show stopper for me. Only thing I can say about it is, there is no doubt this song was written from deep in Kosi's heart and she sings it from deep in her gut. Wonderful tune!
'Hoboken Blues' is just what it says....Kosi and the band kick you in the chest and stomp some badass blues shit in your face.....a great change of pace that shows the diversity of this work.
Ten songs in all, and all WORK! >>
**************************************************
We chatted about a tune that hooked me from her previous CD::VIDEO: 'The Last Shot'
Love her, Love this album!!!
It's available Here on line
Kosi:: In Boston:: You can now find 'Pictures of Us' in:
Cheapo Records~~In Your Ear records~~Store 54~~Weirdo Records~~Newbury Comics
In Chicago at:: Reckless, 2 stores.
Show some love..like her facebook page HERE
follow me:: Pete Carma
Yeah...Kosi can. This wonderfully unique young woman, is for 'my2cents' the best new indie artist I have heard in my four years of supporting artists with my blog.
I recognized her previous CD, 'One More Cup Of Coffee' as the best new CD of 2013.
I spoke with her about the follow up: 'Pictures Of Us' ...Enjoy~~
Video Kosi interview::
 |
| Kosi |
'Pictures of Us' has everything JAZZZZ is about. From the opening tune, 'Wild Is The Wind' which features the sexy flugelhorn passages of Angeleisha Rodgers, and the vocal story telling of Kosi.
'Star Crossed Lovers' is an astrological trip on Kosi's vocal magic, kept above the stratosphere by the guitar of Aron Marchak and bass bottom of Julian Smith.
********************
"Times I made you cry....times you made me hate you....times I'd wonder why
we kept these pictures of the past...these cocktails in a broken glass".....
That's the up tempo title tune...'Pictures Of Us' ...
'Your Angel' is the show stopper for me. Only thing I can say about it is, there is no doubt this song was written from deep in Kosi's heart and she sings it from deep in her gut. Wonderful tune!
 |
| Kosi at StreetcredMusic, Chicago. |
Ten songs in all, and all WORK! >>
**************************************************
We chatted about a tune that hooked me from her previous CD::VIDEO: 'The Last Shot'
Love her, Love this album!!!
It's available Here on line
Kosi:: In Boston:: You can now find 'Pictures of Us' in:
Cheapo Records~~In Your Ear records~~Store 54~~Weirdo Records~~Newbury Comics
In Chicago at:: Reckless, 2 stores.
Show some love..like her facebook page HERE
follow me:: Pete Carma
Sunday
Before and After, Diva vs Diva, Greta~Mina
Anna Maria Quaini or Mina Mazzini, known as Mina, is one of the most successful Italian singers of all time. She was a staple of Italian television variety shows and a dominant figure in Italian pop music from the mid-1960s to mid-1970s.
Enjoy "Parole Perole" ...Mina Video:: From 1972
Mina fell in love with actor Corrado Pani in 1962. Their relationship shocked Italian audiences as he was already married although separated from his wife. Their son, was born on 18 April 1963. Due to Mina's refusal to hide the relationship, the singer was banned from performing on public Italian television or radio channels.
*****************************************
Fast forward to 2014, Greta's Bakery featuring Greta Panettieri....has put together a new CD,
'Non Gioco Piu' which once again brings to life, with new arrangements and the best musicians available, the tunes of Mina.
Enjoy the Diva's renditions of these classics...
Enjoy. this VIDEO, from 2014 :: 'Parole, Parole'
follow: Greta on FB here;
follow me:: Pete Carma
 |
| Mina |
Enjoy "Parole Perole" ...Mina Video:: From 1972
Mina fell in love with actor Corrado Pani in 1962. Their relationship shocked Italian audiences as he was already married although separated from his wife. Their son, was born on 18 April 1963. Due to Mina's refusal to hide the relationship, the singer was banned from performing on public Italian television or radio channels.
*****************************************
Fast forward to 2014, Greta's Bakery featuring Greta Panettieri....has put together a new CD,
'Non Gioco Piu' which once again brings to life, with new arrangements and the best musicians available, the tunes of Mina.
Enjoy the Diva's renditions of these classics...
 |
| Greta |
follow: Greta on FB here;
follow me:: Pete Carma
Wednesday
StreetcredMusic, Pete Carma...My 2cents Part II
....staying completely positive, here's Part due. You can see Part uno here:: MY2cents Part I
There are so many different indie artists in New York City, and I think the most diverse group I have encountered, and a group I am ALWAYS interested in are what I call the 'rookies'. That speaks to my background as a sports writer, and it is an affectionate term in this case.
(and for the purpose of keeping my blog articles brief, I will eliminate the artists who comes to NYC financially secure, and yes that artists does exist.)
'Rookies':: They all come to NYC knowing they will have to work their butts off. Some will have musician friends in the city, some will not.
Alicia, is a young woman who came from Puerto Rico. She did not have a connection to NYC at all.
She contacted me, because she happened to be playing in Union Square Park, in May and I gave her my card. I told her I live in Chicago and check out the blog.
So she had no fear, she was friendly, and said she would check out the blog. I asked her what she needed most, in a very quick five minute chat.
She said gigs. I'm not going to tell you anything about her or her music that will come in another article. I got her two gigs, one at Rockwood and one at The Stone...solo gigs.
SOOO, back to what this piece is about:: this is the artist I will bend over backwards for, artists like this make me feel good because they want my help, AND if I could find one a month like her, (and believe me I try) I could start a network that could do soooo much good for all connected to it.
Alicia has, since May, hooked up with another wonderful young woman, that I gave her a lead on, who plays piano and a mean blues fiddle...so they now are putting some blues together.
Open, unafraid, knowing she needs help, of course on guard but, not unwilling to take the help of someone with no strings, most find that scary......Soooo.
**************************************************
...That takes me to the other group. The ones who either I find on line and go see live in NYC when I'm there, or the artist who contacts me. The ones who are not really looking for help, as I see it.
I have one example here too, I mean there have been many, but I'll use this most recent one.
She, let's call her Lady L...she contacted me, never saying where she heard of me or my blog. She sent a FB message saying..Hi, blah, blah, can you look at my music, and perhaps put me on the blog...
OK, this is what I want...I know my word is out there and it means content and diversity for the blog.
But this fell apart in about five minutes, maybe less. I messaged her back and we were chatting..
I said thanks for the shout ..and she had a name that was not American so I was curious, and I asked her where she was from...cause I have women from all over the world on my FB and blog.
She said I live in NYC now...so I asked, where are you from originally? She said, what does that matter? You don't need that. Then I gave her the benefit of all doubt and I said (when I knew I should have ended it there)...Here's what I do...I usually write an introductory piece about you with basic info, and put links to your sites and photos~~~~and you send me a few words about you, your music NYC, whatever you want to say
........She said, "you can get all that from my bio on facebook"
I was done. So my question...What did she want?? Did she really even look at the blog??
I'm not a critic, I write about people, their music speaks for itself.
So, spread the word, I'm a scary guy, who might want to know who you are before I trust you,
....who is nonprofit and helps people!!
Follow me:: twitter Pete Carma facebook:: Pete Carma
My pages:: My doc film StreetcredMusic
There are so many different indie artists in New York City, and I think the most diverse group I have encountered, and a group I am ALWAYS interested in are what I call the 'rookies'. That speaks to my background as a sports writer, and it is an affectionate term in this case.
(and for the purpose of keeping my blog articles brief, I will eliminate the artists who comes to NYC financially secure, and yes that artists does exist.)
'Rookies':: They all come to NYC knowing they will have to work their butts off. Some will have musician friends in the city, some will not.
 |
| Alicia, more from her, in the coming weeks. |
She contacted me, because she happened to be playing in Union Square Park, in May and I gave her my card. I told her I live in Chicago and check out the blog.
So she had no fear, she was friendly, and said she would check out the blog. I asked her what she needed most, in a very quick five minute chat.
She said gigs. I'm not going to tell you anything about her or her music that will come in another article. I got her two gigs, one at Rockwood and one at The Stone...solo gigs.
SOOO, back to what this piece is about:: this is the artist I will bend over backwards for, artists like this make me feel good because they want my help, AND if I could find one a month like her, (and believe me I try) I could start a network that could do soooo much good for all connected to it.
Alicia has, since May, hooked up with another wonderful young woman, that I gave her a lead on, who plays piano and a mean blues fiddle...so they now are putting some blues together.
Open, unafraid, knowing she needs help, of course on guard but, not unwilling to take the help of someone with no strings, most find that scary......Soooo.
**************************************************
...That takes me to the other group. The ones who either I find on line and go see live in NYC when I'm there, or the artist who contacts me. The ones who are not really looking for help, as I see it.
I have one example here too, I mean there have been many, but I'll use this most recent one.
 |
| Lady L |
She, let's call her Lady L...she contacted me, never saying where she heard of me or my blog. She sent a FB message saying..Hi, blah, blah, can you look at my music, and perhaps put me on the blog...
OK, this is what I want...I know my word is out there and it means content and diversity for the blog.
But this fell apart in about five minutes, maybe less. I messaged her back and we were chatting..
I said thanks for the shout ..and she had a name that was not American so I was curious, and I asked her where she was from...cause I have women from all over the world on my FB and blog.
She said I live in NYC now...so I asked, where are you from originally? She said, what does that matter? You don't need that. Then I gave her the benefit of all doubt and I said (when I knew I should have ended it there)...Here's what I do...I usually write an introductory piece about you with basic info, and put links to your sites and photos~~~~and you send me a few words about you, your music NYC, whatever you want to say
........She said, "you can get all that from my bio on facebook"
I was done. So my question...What did she want?? Did she really even look at the blog??
I'm not a critic, I write about people, their music speaks for itself.
So, spread the word, I'm a scary guy, who might want to know who you are before I trust you,
....who is nonprofit and helps people!!
Follow me:: twitter Pete Carma facebook:: Pete Carma
My pages:: My doc film StreetcredMusic
Sunday
StreetcredMusic, Pete Carma...The Revelation Of 2010
I fell in love with Annabelle 'Annie' Ross, of 'Lambert, Hendricks & Ross' in 1958. Seeing her perform in New York City, on TV and at The Newport Jazz Festival in 1959, she was my all time favorite woman in jazz. Her lead trumpet like solos and her amazing range and timing were what captured me.....and she always looked like she was having FUN!
Here's a video:: Enjoy Annie and some friends!
I got to meet her in 2008, and spent some time with her, and she just reinforced all I saw in her.
Charming, friendly, open and just a joy to reminisce with, about the days of JAZZ in NYC!
**********************************************
Then in 2010, just a few short steps from where I use to see Annie and all the greats of the Golden Age of Jazz, on the lower east side of New York City fifty years earlier...I stopped in to see a young woman who had impressed me from what I saw of her on line....I had some friends in town from Vegas, California and Atlantic City, and I literally dragged them to see her.
...and to coin a really 'corny' phrase, my life changed....as a result of that show, and chatting with Greta Panettieri I started this blog and all the other great things that have happened with this blog....
...and Greta Panettieri took over not only as my all time favorite woman in jazz, but we became friends and worked together, and I have learned soooo much from her...
Here's what Greta can do:: Enjoy: 'Smoke From Incense'
........she is the most fun loving, caring person, always having FUN on stage too...
.........she has me continually asking myself:: how can I have so much fun with her and be soooo much in awe of her talents. 'The Diva'..xo
Greta has released two albums this year: 'Under Control' and 'Non Gioco Piu'
Her band is Greta's Bakery::
you can see all of her great music here~~~~ Greta's Music
Here's one more video from the album 'Under Control' a live take from a show we did in NYC...
The title tune::: Enjoy Greta, with Sandro Albert @The Bitter End
Greta now lives in Rome, but she visits us at least once a year, follow me and you'll know when she is in NYC:: Pete Carma
My facebook page:: Pete Carma FB
Here's a video:: Enjoy Annie and some friends!
I got to meet her in 2008, and spent some time with her, and she just reinforced all I saw in her.
Charming, friendly, open and just a joy to reminisce with, about the days of JAZZ in NYC!
 |
| The Amazing Annie Ross |
Then in 2010, just a few short steps from where I use to see Annie and all the greats of the Golden Age of Jazz, on the lower east side of New York City fifty years earlier...I stopped in to see a young woman who had impressed me from what I saw of her on line....I had some friends in town from Vegas, California and Atlantic City, and I literally dragged them to see her.
...and to coin a really 'corny' phrase, my life changed....as a result of that show, and chatting with Greta Panettieri I started this blog and all the other great things that have happened with this blog....
...and Greta Panettieri took over not only as my all time favorite woman in jazz, but we became friends and worked together, and I have learned soooo much from her...
 | |
| I have nicknamed her "The Diva' |
.........she has me continually asking myself:: how can I have so much fun with her and be soooo much in awe of her talents. 'The Diva'..xo
Greta has released two albums this year: 'Under Control' and 'Non Gioco Piu'
Her band is Greta's Bakery::
you can see all of her great music here~~~~ Greta's Music
Here's one more video from the album 'Under Control' a live take from a show we did in NYC...
The title tune::: Enjoy Greta, with Sandro Albert @The Bitter End
Greta now lives in Rome, but she visits us at least once a year, follow me and you'll know when she is in NYC:: Pete Carma
My facebook page:: Pete Carma FB
StreetcredMusic, Pete Carma...My 2cents Part I
After four years of being in the very center of the Independent scene in New York City...mostly music but some art, sculpture and theater, I want to give my2cents. I want it to be the view of someone who has been through the corporate world, for fifty years, in politics, sports, labor unions and now music.
...before writing this I asked four people in the music industry, who I know won't bullshit me, with a total of 69 years experience between them, all women, still yet to reach their full potential, if I should give my2cents or keep it to myself, because I don't want to sound negative... because I want to help....that's what this is all about, this blog, my documentary film, all of it, help.
They all said the exact same words::DO IT! They got a preview and did not think it was anything but a good read, and made them think. Constructive.
Remember this is only part one:: I got lots to say.
What I see....I think there are at least three categories of inde musicians in NYC.
One is the absolute, the prototype, I call them 'terrorists' who must create music, be on stage, get their message out. They have but one mission. They will sacrifice, yes their lives to fulfill their dream. Like when I asked one of them...'if I could give you any career in the world, President of the United States, Editor of the NY Times, Top Fashion Designer in Paris, but you had to agree to give up music, and I put a gun to your head, which would you choose', she said..."pull the fuckin trigger".
These artists have slept in abandon building in NYC, lived in one room with three others, left their homeland, a secure family, and in some cases did not speak English on arrival, to NYC.
It's in their makeup to make music, they knew it forever.
These artists for the most part I have attached myself to. These artists do not work a day job.
It's all music or nothing, like one said.."no more shitty gigs". (I know bills have to be paid).
That same artist has a skeleton of steel....and the ones I know, a gentle heart, and an open mind.
******************************************
This artist, the absolute, they greet their audience, before and after their gigs, shake a hand, take a photo...they seek out NEW people to approach and thank for coming! And give a person to person promo to their merch table.
They don't delegate much work, they are on it whenever possible. Their band members are alive on stage, not looking like they want to be somewhere else, and appear bored. Or worse, talking to each other when the lead is singing..They don't tolerate it.
....and here's the biggy, they don't go on 'the cheap'. If they do something they want the best, .....BUT, there is a big factor here, if the artist is a step above the rest, they can get others a step above to work with them$$.
This artist knows, the audience is seeing a picture on stage, and wants all the pieces to fit their MO.
This artist has had their fill of record companies, and is not really striving to 'get signed'.
....and that's where the dedication comes in....getting your music played, and I have been working with two of the best, going to radio stations, emails, follow ups, I have personally done it all....
Not to mention the two CEO's of LAVA Records and KOCH Records, who blew more smoke that Vesuvius. BUT, the terrorist is not scared of this task, of being your own 'agent' 'promoter'.
....and this artist does not 'blow in the wind'...by that I mean change their, style, their band, their genre every few months, just because a promoter or a 'person of knowledge' (a corporate shill) tells them what is trending now on radio.
To survive at this level these artist have a 401K of music...a body of work, AT LEAST a handful of songs, that you do well and that you can give to others, a placement pack, songs that anyone can sell..other artists, and commercials... they realize they can not change the world alone...and it's income! They have quality videos on their youtube page, and an easy to read web site, with a personal touch....not a "sounds like" so and so bio, and in some cases a bio written first person, from their heart.
So that's pretty much what the top level of the indies have shown me...
That's 'my2Cents'.
follow me: Pete Carma
...before writing this I asked four people in the music industry, who I know won't bullshit me, with a total of 69 years experience between them, all women, still yet to reach their full potential, if I should give my2cents or keep it to myself, because I don't want to sound negative... because I want to help....that's what this is all about, this blog, my documentary film, all of it, help.
They all said the exact same words::DO IT! They got a preview and did not think it was anything but a good read, and made them think. Constructive.
Remember this is only part one:: I got lots to say.
What I see....I think there are at least three categories of inde musicians in NYC.
One is the absolute, the prototype, I call them 'terrorists' who must create music, be on stage, get their message out. They have but one mission. They will sacrifice, yes their lives to fulfill their dream. Like when I asked one of them...'if I could give you any career in the world, President of the United States, Editor of the NY Times, Top Fashion Designer in Paris, but you had to agree to give up music, and I put a gun to your head, which would you choose', she said..."pull the fuckin trigger".
These artists have slept in abandon building in NYC, lived in one room with three others, left their homeland, a secure family, and in some cases did not speak English on arrival, to NYC.
It's in their makeup to make music, they knew it forever.
These artists for the most part I have attached myself to. These artists do not work a day job.
It's all music or nothing, like one said.."no more shitty gigs". (I know bills have to be paid).
That same artist has a skeleton of steel....and the ones I know, a gentle heart, and an open mind.
******************************************
This artist, the absolute, they greet their audience, before and after their gigs, shake a hand, take a photo...they seek out NEW people to approach and thank for coming! And give a person to person promo to their merch table.
They don't delegate much work, they are on it whenever possible. Their band members are alive on stage, not looking like they want to be somewhere else, and appear bored. Or worse, talking to each other when the lead is singing..They don't tolerate it.
....and here's the biggy, they don't go on 'the cheap'. If they do something they want the best, .....BUT, there is a big factor here, if the artist is a step above the rest, they can get others a step above to work with them$$.
This artist knows, the audience is seeing a picture on stage, and wants all the pieces to fit their MO.
This artist has had their fill of record companies, and is not really striving to 'get signed'.
....and that's where the dedication comes in....getting your music played, and I have been working with two of the best, going to radio stations, emails, follow ups, I have personally done it all....
Not to mention the two CEO's of LAVA Records and KOCH Records, who blew more smoke that Vesuvius. BUT, the terrorist is not scared of this task, of being your own 'agent' 'promoter'.
....and this artist does not 'blow in the wind'...by that I mean change their, style, their band, their genre every few months, just because a promoter or a 'person of knowledge' (a corporate shill) tells them what is trending now on radio.
To survive at this level these artist have a 401K of music...a body of work, AT LEAST a handful of songs, that you do well and that you can give to others, a placement pack, songs that anyone can sell..other artists, and commercials... they realize they can not change the world alone...and it's income! They have quality videos on their youtube page, and an easy to read web site, with a personal touch....not a "sounds like" so and so bio, and in some cases a bio written first person, from their heart.
So that's pretty much what the top level of the indies have shown me...
That's 'my2Cents'.
follow me: Pete Carma
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)