Musicgoat.com » Music Promotion

Why You Need An Artist Management Company

Corey Koehler — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:36:54 +0000

In the music business, you need to strike while the iron is hot, and take your chances when you get them. You never know when a once in a lifetime opportunity will present itself, and when it does, you need to be ready to step up to the microphone and rock it.

You need an artist management company who knows how to function in the fast paced world of the music business.

Best Kept Secret

The best kept secret in the music business, though, is that, more often than not, “once in a lifetime” opportunities don’t just happen. Most bands and artists who have achieved any degree of success in the business got their big breaks because of someone in the background pulling the right strings and making sure the pieces fell into place so they could get that legitimate shot at success. Most of the time, the ones behind the scenes are aggressive artist managers or artist management companies.

Finding the right artist manager is one of the most important decisions you will ever make as an artist or a band. Unless you happen to really know what’s what in the music industry (and most don’t), you need someone who can steer you in the right directions. You need someone with the right connections who can make sure that the right people get to hear you perform.

Ideal Candidate

You need someone who has natural leadership ability…someone who can deal with the different personalities and egos both in your band and in the music business in general. You also need someone who has a great deal of salesmanship, someone who’s going to be able to convince others in the business that, out of all the up and coming artists, you are the one they should give the gig or recording contract to.

On top of all of this, you need an artist manager you can trust. The music business, like any other business, runs on trust. Be people of your word, and expect the same of your management company. Don’t accept any less. Your career depends on it.

Guest post: Matthew Downes is committed to helping this up and coming generation of musicians optimize their careers by giving them consummate guidance in all areas of the music industry. As president of ktc mgmt, a company specializing in helping artists achieve maximum profits with real world business advice and career consulting, he can help you reach your goals and maximize your profit in the music industry.

For more information about Matthew and his company ktc mgmt please visit http://www.ktcmgmt.com/

PHOTO CREDIT: photo credit: Epiclectic

Join The First Global House Concert Network

Corey Koehler — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:04:34 +0000

photo credit: B Rosen

At a time when music is gradually perceived as a streamed commodity for most listeners (as opposed to the traditional ownership model which peaked in the era of CDs), we think there is room for new initiatives that will reinvent a sustainable ecosystem for both the end-user and the artist.

We’ve just launched a GLOBAL musical social network bringing together private hosts of house concerts and solo artists. The idea of house concerts has been around for a few years but there have been few attempts to organize it properly on a global level. This will be our challenge. Our ambition is to build the network of hosts during a few months to gain enough traction before launching the first tours.

Serious People Only

We believe in a form of curation to guarantee the quality of the experience for all parties involved: we won’t grant automatic membership. We want motivated & talented individuals to join the network. Slowbizz does not equal showbizz. We position ourselves in the “slow movement”.

Whereas most music online marketeers advocate ways to entice wildfire “click & forget” like/follow behaviour, we strongly recommend to grow a genuine fanbase in the not-so-outdated real world, one gig at a time, one fan at a time. Slowly but surely. And there’s no better way to do it than via an organically built network of engaged music lovers.

Slowbizz.com is already open for both hosts & artists submissions.

It’s only the beginning of a great adventure. There’s no rush, we’ll take our time.

Slowbizz.com will be slowly built with passion, by music lovers for music lovers.

Go Take a Look for Yourself

Join the artist community here.

Join the host community here.

Look Who’s Talking

We’ve just been featured on Springwise & Hypebot.

Guest post by Frederick Tubiermont the owner and manager of Slowbizz.com.

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photo credit: B Rosen

Do You Need A Custom Album Cover? This Designer Can Help!

Corey Koehler — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:23:38 +0000

Are you thinking about having a custom album cover done for your next release? Well then you are going to want to read this.

I sat down (virtually) with album cover designer Jennifer Paganessi of JL Album Art (and latest Musicgoat partner) to pick her brain about the importance of album covers, why she is passionate about them and why you should let her do yours.

Oh and she even reveals some of her favorites from the past andpresent (one may surprise you).

Musicgoat: Can you give me a few reasons why a musician would want a custom album cover

Jennifer Paganessi of JL Designs: A custom cover will display your style. As a musician you put so much hard work and effort into making your album and that effort should not stop at what is in it but also create a cover that will reflect that work.

Your cover is really an album identity. To promote your album you should use that same design for a Facebook skin, t-shirt design, set design, possible new website design and more.

Building a solid brand identity is crucial for success in this modern market, and your cover becomes the visual identity of your music.

MG: How did you get into the album cover business?

JP: I have always loved music and art is my passion. Typically in my business I have done more corporate work. While I do enjoy that side I was missing the creative freedom, the ability to get a little wild from time to time So my thought was to combine my two passions and create a division dedicated to album design.

It’s an art that I think was lost for awhile but is making it’s way back to the music community. Especially with the digital age more and more you are seeing covers for singles, albums and remixes.

MG: Why should they get them from JL?

JP: Experience. JL Design has been actively in the design business for over 14 years. We started as a print design company but have progressively been pursuing the digital design world. With experience in both you can be assured that your design will work in both platforms well.

MG: What are some of your favorite album covers past and present?

JP: There are so many to choose from, I guess my present favorite would have to be Maroon 5′s, Hands all over. It’s just one of those you glance at and think ‘oh that is just a naked chick’ and then you do a double take and realize she has 4 arms. It’s a little crazy, weird and sexy and I really think it matches their music style.

From the past I would have to say any of Metallica’s albums or pretty much any of the heavy metal artists from the late 80′s. The artwork displayed on those are incredible and done at a time where there wasn’t photoshop.

I also really remember the reaction I had to Sting’s The Soul Cages album. I remember that packaging was made out of folding cardboard. Sting was making a statement on how the longboxes were damaging to the environment (this was in the early 90′s). The CD package was a longbox that folded into a jewel case size. It was very fitting since Sting was huge into world events and the environment.

So there you have it. Does Jennifer sound like somebody you want to work with? Well then visit her website now.

And what about you? What are some of your favorite album covers?

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Google Plus For Musicians Update: How To Build Your Page

Corey Koehler — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:12:52 +0000

To keep you posted on the whole Google Plus Page thing, I have a few things for you to check out. I came across a great resource on how to create your Google Plus page as well as another post outlining some of the things you can’t do with Google Plus Pages.

How To Get Started With Google Plus Pages For Business

Yeah it says business but if it makes you feel better, pretend it say musicians or bands or whatever. Either way, Christopher Penn puts out top shelf info on anything related to marketing and social media. This post gives you a quick guide to setting up your Page.

UPDATE: Create A Google Plus Business Page in 2 Minutes

Like to learn via a video better? Check out Paul Colligan’s how-to video

Why You Should Get A Google Plus Page For Your Music ASAP

Wondering why you even need yet another page? Read this and you’ll see.

I Wish I Never Heard of Google Brand Pages

Uber Social Guru Robert Scoble has a few interesting point in this post. It will give you an idea of what you can’t do with Google Plus (like not being able to have more than one admin for your page).

My Google Plus page is a work in progress but you can check it out if you’d like.

Corey Koehler Music on Google Plus

Do you have any tips or know of any other resources that can help us musicians get the most out of Google Plus? Great, feel free to share them below.

photo credit: The Daring Librarian

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Send Your Music To Sirenstories

Corey Koehler — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:29:02 +0000

Dear Songwriters and Composers,

I’d like to invite you to share your unique songwriting talent with me for my new project, Sirenstories.

My goal is to post 1 new song—and information about the songwriter—each week for 1 year at http://www.sirenstories.com
(Occasionally there will be a post about a book, book trailer or other creative project on the site.)

INSTRUCTIONS:

FIRST: UPLOAD *YOUR SONG to the Sirenstories group on SoundCloud http://soundcloud.com/groups/sirenstories

SECOND: PLEEEEASE make this easy for me by answering the following questions in your notes:

1. What’s your name, or your band’s name? *If the song was not written by the person or band performing it, tell me the name of the songwriter.

2. What’s the title of your song?

3. Where are you from?

4. Best websites to see/hear/contact you.
(Be warned, I’ll probably go there and get a pic of you or your album art.)
**If your music is for a book trailer or movie, please give me the url to embed.**

5. Briefly describe your music.
Include quotes from the press if you’d like, as well as info about the track’s producer or the players.

6. What’s your song about? PLEASE PASTE THE LYRICS IN YOUR NOTES.

Please upload 2 tracks in case I want to feature you twice

Beginning June 1st 2011 go to http://www.sirenstories.com to hear 1 new song every week for 1 year. How awesome is that?

Hope to hear you soon, and thanks!

Very best,

Mimi

Guest post: Mimi Cross is currently writing novels, which she says are just really long songs. She created Sirenstories because before she was a singer/songwriter, she was a fan.

Singers + Songs = Sirenstories http://www.sirenstories.com

Your Internet Music Marketing Plan Should Include This Powerful Force

Navigating The Indie Music Mindfield (Part 1)

Corey Koehler — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:23:16 +0000

A lot has been spoken about concerning indie artists and the ‘Long Tail’, but with the introduction of more advanced in-home studio software, the gap has been widening into a chasm that so many artists fall into and can sometimes never return from.

The Long Tail

The Long Tail is a term that was first coined by Wired Magazine editor Chris Anderson. It is actually a very simple concept that describes the phenomenon of the online environment. It operates on the principle that 20% of the artists earn 80% of the music income and 80% of the artists earn 20% of the music income. In recent times the top of the tail has become even steeper with closer to 5% of the artists earning 95% of the income. This whole scenario is particularly relevant to the indie music market as it rushes headlong into the future.

It has become even more important than ever for an artist to hone their craft and prepare for the onslaught that is the independent music market. So exactly how does an artist navigate through the minefield that has become indie music? The answer – know your market.

A Clever Move

Two case studies from completely different fields are Ben Craven, indie progressive rock artist from Brisbane, Australia; and another Aussie sensation, Stonefield who have scored a distribution agreement through former Warner Music Australia President of A & R, Michael Parisi’s indie label, Wunderkind.

I first met Ben Craven several years ago and his demo version of his latest album “Great and Terrible Potions” blew me away. Playing every instrument and inserting every sound meticulously, he created an album that has been getting outstanding reviews particularly across Europe. He hasn’t toured or played his album live yet, but there has been no need. The album was given the stamp of approval by Roger Dean (album artist for Yes, Asia, Uriah Heap). Mr Dean designed the album cover and this point alone has put the prog-rock fans into a feeding frenzy. If Roger likes it, then it must be good.

The move was a clever one on Ben’s behalf; it opened the door for fans of prog-rock to at least take a listen. He knew he was sitting in the tail end of the long tail and decided to do something different to gather the attention of his target audience. He knew his market would be super critical of anyone sounding remotely similar to the greats like Pink Floyd so he made sure his approval was gained before the critics had their say.

The Payoff

The gamble of paying for a well-known prog-rock artist to prepare the album art paid off with online reviews calling him the spiritual grandchild of Rick Wakeman and Keith Emerson. His is now being released to music stores around Australia and across Europe and USA…and he did it all independently.

In the next post we will find out about all-girl band Stonefield and how they managed the indie minefield to get a major label’s notice.

The Indie Guy

Guest Post: The Indie Guy is the presenter of Indie Uncovered on the new online radio…The Indie Project FM launching in November. If you want your music to be played on the show, head over to theindieproject.org

Bands and Musicians! Here’s A Great Google Plus Music Marketing Circle For You

Corey Koehler — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:15:38 +0000

Google Plus Music Marketing Circle

If you are a band or musician looking for some great music marketing resources to follow on Google Plus, look no further.

Here is a link to my Google Plus Music Marketing Circle . All you need to do is click on “Add Circle” and you will automatically have your own circle filled with all of the great music marketing gurus I’ve come across.

Oh and if there is anyone I missed, let me know in the comments below so I can add them.

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How To Have Your Own Band Merch Store Up and Running in an Hour or Less

Corey Koehler — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 21:08:27 +0000

Looking for a quick and simple way to offer your fans some merch (or even make your own custom swag)? No problem. I have an simple solution for you to get a band merch store up and running fast. Check it out.

Here is a Musicgoat store that I whipped up a in about an hour using a site called Zazzle.

Zazzle Dazzle…

I went with Zazzle because they seem to cater to musicians and artistic types plus – and this is a big plus – they give you a commission on sales for stuff sold outside of your store. Meaning, should one of your fans decide to look around and find other stuff and buy it, you get a little somethin, somethin yourself. Cool huh?

Plus, they have a ton of cool stuff to slap your band logo on. Besides the obvious stuff like T-shirts, buttons and posters they also have cool stuff like skateboards, shoes and iPod cases.

I Know What You’re Thinking…

For the record, I am sure there are better deals out there if you are looking to buy merch in bulk for your shows or for a tour BUT if you are looking for a very quick way to throw up a merch store without worrying about building your own online store where you have to do the shipping and handling, this is the way to go.

Go check out Zazzle now.

What do you think?

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photo credit: chucknado

Cool Ass Way To Make Music Videos For YouTube

Cool Ass Way To Make Music Videos For YouTube

Corey Koehler — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:45:49 +0000

Looking for a cool way to make music videos for YouTube without spending a ton of time or money? Check out this video.

I saw this video on my Google Plus stream and thought it was a great example of a simple video that keeps you watching.

It looks like something any one on a limited budget, very limited time or limited equipment could do.

Here it is -

What about you? Do you have any simple, cost effective ways to make videos?

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Why Musicians Should Consider Google Plus For Online Music Marketing

Vinyl Albums And Cassette Tapes: Why You Shouldn’t Stick A Fork In Them Yet!

Corey Koehler — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 19:26:15 +0000

Vinyl is Back Baby!

Over the past week a fellow musician Erik Peterson and I got into some heavy vinyl and cassette chat over on Google Plus (Click if you need an invitation).

He shared a few articles that were great food for thought if you are thinking of some alternative ways to release your album,have a fanbase that is receptive to these types of media or are looking at cracking a new marketing of people looking for new music on these formats.

Check out the articles he shared.

Vinyl records make comeback in digital age

The thing that surprised me most in this article is the age of the fans that were spurring the comeback on.

“…Fleming [owner of] Ear Candy [record store], he says teenagers and twentysomethings make up a large amount of his record buyers.

Indy Record Label Puts Spin on Cassettes

This is the article that really surprised me. I didn’t think there was a chance in hell that cassettes would still be even remotely relevant but I was dead wrong.

Notice how inexpensive they are to make and you don’t need a very large quantity. This got me thinking that perhaps this could make for a nice headline grabber. I mean who isn’t going to click on a press release that says “[Artist] Releases New Album on Cassette”. Just a thought.

Anyway, check those out and stop back to let us know what you think.

Can you see yourself releasing anything on vinyl or cassette?

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4 Strategic Rules Of Waging War In Today’s Music Industry

Corey Koehler — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:27:27 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

Even with the right strategy the battle is only half won if the strategy succeeds only with professional execution of tactics. In today’s music industry….the important thing is to get started.

Many potentially great artist spend too much time in the ” waiting for something to happen stage. ” The artist who get that phone call, that one much needed connection or that big break that they’ve always dreamed of are the ones who shake themselves out of that waiting stage and make something happen.

It is far better to engage in some form of simultaneous planning and implementation. Tactical plans must be shaped in relation to reality with the information learned form contact. The Master Bruce Lee said it best in relation to training: ” Boards don’t hit back. “

The 4 Rules

Here are 4 Strategic Rules Of Waging War In Today’s Music Industry:

1) Marshal Adequate Resources

In every battle, the one with the most resources has the odds in his favor. ” The battle may not go to the strong, or the race to the swift, but that’s the way to bet. ” The problem of adequate resources is especially critical for artist/labels who are just starting out because they do not have the base of loyal customers, customers who’ve been converted as such from once being fans, friends, and family within their networks.

2) Make Time Your Ally

Building strength rapidly is, in itself, a clever advantage either because you take the opponent unaware or because the swift concentration of multiple elements creates the force of simultaneous action. So it is that the first one to the river usually crosses without difficulty. The speed with which a position is occupied is critical.

Think in terms of particular genres. Those who own a position early within a certain genre may need to expend less resources representing it than those who come later and must try to break into that genre to have their name become well-knowingly attached to it.

Example, back in the early 90′s when people heard the term gangsta-rap….they immediately associated that with N.W.A. All gangsta-rappers after that had to work extremely hard to earn that tag. Here are a key few key issues in making time an ally:

As a rule, earliest is best.
Time saved is time gained.
The later you start, the more you require.
The more urgent the need for a decision, the longer it takes.
Rapid decision making produces rapid execution.
Rapid action is simultaneous action. Delayed decisions inevitably lose their positive quality.
All the positive consequences of speed accrue to the early offensive.
The less you delay, the less apt you are to be surprised, the less ready will be your competitor, the greater the probability your time of attack will be earlier than expected.

3) Share the Wealth

Everyone On Your Team Must Profit From Victories

4.Know Your Craft

In layman’s terms- Stay in your lane. Stick to what you do best.!!

Guest post: I’m Quintius Monte Walker, CEO and D.I.Y artist of Loced-Out Recordz. I’m better know by my stage name Peta’Loc. You can catch more of me here: http://www.locedoutrecordz.com

Which Came First – the Tweet, the Facebook Page or the Gig?

Corey Koehler — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:12:51 +0000

Image by Ecstatic Mark via Flickr

Do you create an on-line buzz to get the fans along to the gig, or use the energy created at the gig to get the fans to sign up your Facebook page and follow you on Twitter?

Real life and internet marketing aren’t as segregated as you might think. You need to combine on-line and off-line marketing to create the big picture. And get the big audience. But you still need to turn these fans into paying customers.

Take advantage of all the help that digital music distribution channels can give you, like embeddable players and sales tracking. It’s not unreasonable to want to sell more gig tickets, or make money from your music.

One of the best ways to get more fans, whether out to see you play live or on your Facebook page or even following you on Twitter, is to get your existing fans to help you out. People listen to other people, especially when they’re all part of a community. What you really want is for your fans to recommend you to their friends. Personal recommendations work.

You should be connecting with your fans on a regular basis already, at your gigs and through all of your social media channels. So engage with your fan base. And don’t just talk to them, entertain them! You know your fans and followers better than anybody, so you know what they want to hear from you. If you don’t – then you should.

Don’t forget to offer them something in return. Maybe a free download from your website? Maybe a free badge at your gig? All of these things can be shared with others. At no extra cost to you. The free download should net you an email address. You can use that for future marketing. The free badge is free advertising at minimal cost to you.

Don’t discount any channel, however minor it may seem. With all the excitement over internet hype it seems that good old fashioned word of mouth gets forgotten, but it still works.

You still need to turn your fans into paying customers. They want to hear your music, you want to be able to afford to make it. They buy gig tickets, you get to play live. Everybody’s happy.

Guest post: This is a guest post by Selina Murray of independent digital distribution leaders Zimbalam

Great Resources on Google Plus For Bands And Musicians

Corey Koehler — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:46:18 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

Since writing a post about Google Plus from a musicians perspectiveabout a month ago, I’ve been tracking what other people have been saying about it.

I want to learn more myself and I to see if artists and music “Guru’s” where seeing what I was seeing.

Today I share all that info with you. Enjoy…

Hypebot – Warning: Do NOT Start a Google+ Account for Your Band, Label, Studio or Store. Here’s Why

Bands, I am starting with this one because many of you been asking how to start a band page and here is your answer. IMPORTANT: I would still recommend check out the rest of articles below though so that you understand it. Also you might find a few tips on you an your band mates could use it in the meantime.

Bob Baker – Google Plus for Music Marketing

Bob has been helping musicians market their stuff for eons. He has really jumped on this whole Google Plus thing. In this article he show a few examples of how musicians are using Google Plus Hangouts (Hmmm, now where have I heard that before…? hint).

Gen Y Rockstars – Why Social Media is Actually Ruining Your Ability to Obtain Fans

Eric Hebert points out the dangers of chasing fans on the latest social media craze. Even though I feel some of his angst is directed at guys like me (“Led Astray by Music Industry Bloggers”) and he comes off as a little whiny (“these music bloggers are making my job so hard”…just being honest), he knows what he is talking about and I think he makes some great points.

Internet Marketing This Week – If You Want To Pull A Persons Eye

It is not specifically geared towards music marketing but that’s fine. I typically learn more from the non-music internet marketers – who are often more ahead of the curve – than I do from the music marketing guys. This is the most “put it in perspective” discussion i’ve heard or read on the subject of Google Plus.

Marketing Over Coffee – Now With More Google Plus

Chris and John are awesome and each listen generate so many ideas on marketing in general. anything they say about Google Plus is worthy of your attention. OH and here’s a bonus for you, make sure you check out their Derek Sivers (CDBaby founder) interview.

That should do it for today. Book mark this post becuase I will update it when I find other things great things about Google Plus.

What about you? Have you been using Google Plus with any success or otherwise?

Also, if you have any great resources that you’ve come across, share. Put a link in the comments below.

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Here’s Why If You Can’t Bring It Live, Don’t Bring It at All

Corey Koehler — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:07:36 +0000

I’ve worked in the music industry for over 20 years and, even as so many things have changed, one thing remains the same: Your live show can make or break you. Much like Marvin Mosby wrote in his “Why Nobody Is Buying Your Music” post, you really can’t fake it… not if you really want to make it.

Old School 101

The artists that pretty much everyone agrees are classic – whether you enjoy their music or not – all have toured consistently throughout their careers and continue to do so. At 63, Stevie Nicks is about to kick off a solo trek and she’s well aware of the passing time: “At the moment, I can’t stop. If I ever feel I’m doing things that are age-inappropriate, I might reconsider. But female opera singers work into their 70s. Why not a rock singer?”

Yes, why not? Even when their records sales have faltered, truly talented artists’ ticket sales have remained robust. (Think Paul McCartney.) Some are even known more for their live performances than their records. Sure their albums sell well, but their tours go crazy. Prince is a great example, having just completed a 21-night run in Los Angeles. Can you name his last release?

Biggers Not Always Better

U2, Dave Matthews Band, Neil Young, Pearl Jam, Elton John, Bob Dylan… these guys are all still out on the road causing a ruckus with a minimum of 20 years of touring on their resumes. Though U2 still makes a big to-do of it all, bigger isn’t always better. And it’s certainly not required, despite what Katy Perry might think. She told Rolling Stone recently, “Touring is no longer an ordinary thing where you play an instrument in jeans and a T-shirt. It has some pizzazz these days, and I’m definitely bringing the pizzazz with a lot of bells and whistles.”

In contrast, Janet Jackson, who is embarking upon her Up Close and Personal Tour, has re-established her footing on stage by actually taking it down a notch. One critic noted, “This straightforward but effective production goes a long way toward restoring Janet Jackson’s reputation as one of the finest female pop superstars of the modern era. As a total package she’s still leagues ahead of perennially popular Britney Spears and suddenly stalled Christina Aguilera.” If she’s leagues ahead of those two, she can’t even see Perry in her rear view mirror.

And that’s just it – you can have “pizzazz,” but if that’s all you have, then you really don’t have much. Janet Jackson has broken record after record throughout her lengthy career. Sure, Katy Perry has enjoyed some hits, but will anyone still pay to see her in 20 years?

Bright Future

But the younger, emerging generation of artists does have some bright spots, some future classics in its midst. Brandi Carlile, The Avett Brothers, Ray LaMontagne, and others not only make great records but they rock the socks off their live audiences, to boot. My money’s on them.

Do you agree or disagree? Let us know in the comments below. Be honest!

Guest Post: Writer and music biz veteran Kelly McCartney cites Shaun Cassidy, Kenny Rogers, and Rick James among her early musical loves. These days, she’s more likely to be listening to Josh Garrels, Gillian Welch, and TV on the Radio. Learn more about how Kelly could help you at http://www.thekelword.com/.

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Why Musicians Should Consider Google Plus For Online Music Marketing

Corey Koehler — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 19:23:16 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

Marketing music online isn’t an easy job these days. There are many places to be and a gazillion tools to use. With all the learning and managing required your head can start spinning pretty quickly and your precious time can evaporate quicker than Windex on sun-drenched windshield. But I think Google Plus might just help us with that.

Brogan Knows

At first thought Google Plus looked like another take it or leave it ploy by Google to grab some attention away from the Facebooks and Twitters of the world. But after reading Chris Brogan’s Google Plus 50 post, I have changed my mind, BIG time.

He goes through and points out how Google plus – along with some of the new features like Circles (more on that below) – will bring all of their stand alone tools like Picasa, Gchat, Gmail, etc together for a one stop social party. Which got even more weight a day later when Google announces is will rebrand Picasa and Blogger.

Add that to fact 400,000+ Android phones are being activate per day it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see Google might have something here that is useful for music promotion.

Here is the part of the Chris’s post that really perked my interest.

“How long before we see our first Hangout live music “jam?” That’s one record button away from being supercool. And one “name your price” Google Checkout tweak away from being instant micro content for sale.”

How cool would that be? Monetized (or not) push button live shows – with all the promotion tools included – at your finger tips. Almost makes sites like Ustream and StageIt sound complicated.

Circle Jerks Works

CDBaby also recognized the potential of the Google Plus Circles feature in a post . They bring up a great point:

Basically, you can put your friends into different categories and communicate with each of them separately. For most users, circles would probably include “family,” “close friends,” “acquaintances,” “work associates,” etc. But for musicians, this function could have some added benefits if account holders are allowed to create circles for in-town fans, fellow musicians, booking contacts, studio owners, journalists and bloggers, etc

That will be pretty slick. How many times do you want to share links, vids or chit chat with other artists about music marketing on various social networks but don’t because you don’t want to share that conversation with your fans and vice-versa?

Being able to segment conversations means you may not have to have two Twitter accounts or multiple fanpages to log in and out of.

Only The Beginning

And really that is the tip of the iceberg. I can’t get in to try out Google Plus at the moment to really poke and prod but you can bet I will be in there playing around the minute I get a chance. Stay tuned

In the meantime, go check out Google+ for yourself. And I strongly encourage you to go and read Chris Brogan’s Google Plus 50 post and check out the conversation going on in the comments because he goes into way more depth than I have time or first hand knowledge to here.

Oh and as a side note, Google getting bigger and better is kind of freaky. Hell, between my email, my reader, my phone, etc, the conspiracy theorist in me knows they have a crap load of my information. But [fingers crossed] hopefully it is much ado about nothing and I can reap some time saving and fan finding benefits of pretty innovative thinking on their part.

Enough from me. What about you? Do you know something I don’t? Will you use Google Plus?

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3 Reasons Why You Should Cooperate With Other Musicians

Corey Koehler — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 01:10:47 +0000

Image by rick via Flickr

It’s a tough old world out there, and with record sales plummeting it’s easy to see every other musician as just another competitor for the paltry cash available. However, something that we’ve learnt in the post rock scene is that having an active community surrounding your music by cooperating with like minded musicians has tremendous benefits.

Here are just 3 of the reasons why.

1. You can share each other’s fanbase

Let’s face it, most marketing is about getting your product in front of other people’s audiences. Whether that means getting on a popular radio show, mentioned on a high traffic blog or retweeted by an ‘influencer’, marketing is about reaching out to new people.

With a niche genre like post rock a lot of these opportunities aren’t so available as the most popular broadcasters don’t get there by concentrating on relatively unpopular music.

By being associated with other similar bands, you’re getting a direct line to the people most likely to be into your sound.

2. It makes fans more dedicated

Operating in a like minded community is how you create a ‘scene’ around your music. If you’re seen often playing on the same bill as a handful of similar bands, it creates the idea that there’s a thing happening here which is something fans can buy into.

Rather than just being a fan of a band, they’ll feel like they’re part of something, and that’s a lot more exciting than just liking some band. It means they’re more likely to talk about it, and try and introduce their friends into this great scene they’re a part of.

Particularly in the early days when you’re still very underground, having an underground ‘scene’ rather than just a band hardly anybody’s heard of increases the atmosphere of exclusivity. People like to feel like they’re early adopters, give them something to adopt.

3. It opens up opportunities

If out of your handful of bands one of you gets radio play on a particular station, you can now immediately namedrop them when you approach the station, or even get your mates who already have a contact to have a word for you.

The world works on recommendations. If a particular DJ or blogger is really into a band that you’re associated with, and that band tells them to check you out, they probably will. Or at the very least, they’re far more likely to than if you approach them cold.

It also makes an easy jump for A&R guys to make if they snap one of you up. Labels like to follow a trend and you’ve just made it easier to identify one for them to follow.

An opportunity for one is an opportunity for all.
What you can do today

Chances are, there are already a few bands or artists that you run into on the gig circuit that do something quite similar to you. These are the people you need to build your community. Here are just a few ways to go about it:

Where possible, always make sure to invite them to play gigs with you.
Organise your own shows, always putting on bands you’re associated with (or would like to be).
Go on tour together.
Actively promote each other online – mention each other’s gigs and releases on Facebook, Twitter et al.
Release joint singles.
Guest on each other’s recordings.
If you really want to, formally announce a collective, put a website together and plug it on all your flyers and posters.

It’s a dog eat dog world out there, and your best chance is by traveling in a pack.

This is a guest post by Nick Lewis on behalf of post rock label and promotions company Nice Weather for Airstrikes. Find some of the best post rock bands in the UK at http://niceweatherforairstrikes.co.uk

Why Nobody is Buying Your Music

Corey Koehler — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:59:43 +0000

Image by the.barb via Flickr

I love music. I loved the industry. I pretty much love everything about it. From A&R, to advertising & promotions, to radio, the studio, the songwriting process, beat-making, etc…I can go on & on & on.

The state of the music industry is a sad one. I think it is hilarious that artists & musicians question why people are not playing their songs, videos, or buying their albums. Let me help you out.

Why should we go spend our money (that could go in the gas tank, towards a meal, or a bill..) to buy music that sounds RECYCLED, BORING & LAME?

Yes, I said it. Music lovers want to hear and buy music that is unlike anything or anyone we have ever heard. There is already one Beyonce, stop copy-catting. Whenever Beyonce comes out with new music, it does NOT sound like the songs that are being played on the radio and her videos and performances are not like the ones you constantly see on MTV, VH1, 106 & Park…Take note: Bey aims to release music that nobody else can pull off.. This is why she is relevant. This is why she sells records and sells out shows.

Singers, songwriters, artists..stop making music to make money. If you make music to make good music, you will have fans; you will have people requesting your songs & buying your LPs.

Living in St. Louis, we now only have ONE hip-hop/R&B station that plays the same 7 songs all day. Cut it out. There is so much talent bubbling under the radar waiting to be heard & seen but we are too busy celebrating music that I can make using an app on my phone. I want to hear a voice unlike no other. I want to hear beats and instrumentation that takes me to another world. I want to hear a hook that I will remember for years down the line..

Nobody is buying your music because you don’t really have musical talent. For example, Cassie. I love Cassie’s swag & sometimes her style, but she cannot sing. She is a pretty face that Diddy thought could make him money, but boo, you cannot sing. Ryan Leslie’s beats could not mask that.

It is 2011. We as music buyers look for music that is fresh, exciting, bold, and original. You have to have SOMETHING TO SAY…something listeners can relate to. There is only so much hood sh*t that we can take without getting fed up. You can look good, have a nice body, and take good pics, but you still cannot make good music.

Although Kanye is arrogant, he aims to make GOOD music. He strives to go into the studio and crank out tracks that his counter parts are afraid to do. He dares to be different. He isn’t afraid to take risks with his music & his career.

So, for all of you singers and artists, if you have NOT been selling records, take notice of what you have been doing and do the opposite.

Guest post by Marvin Mosby. Marvin is a rising entrepreneur and lover of the music industry. He hopes to be able to make a name for himself in the music industry by sharing his passion and knowledge with others.

Bands and Musicians: How You Can Be A Philanthropist Like Bono

Corey Koehler — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 13:34:17 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

So you are a musician that would like to give back to your community in some way, but you have not become quite as successful as being able to give $3 million like Madonna. Yet, that does not mean that you cannot be a philanthropist. You can give your most valuable asset – your voice.

Charities often hold special events to attract new donors and/or show appreciation for current donors and volunteers. Often the budgets for these events are very small with little or no allocation for performers. These charitable events provide a perfect opportunity for you as a new artist to showcase your talents, hone your performance skills, and begin to generate some buzz about you. Take advantage of these opportunities by offering to perform at the event without monetary compensation. You will still want and need to be compensated, but you will not likely receive cash.

Confused?? The non-profit does not likely have the funds to pay you your typical booking fee. They may have a few hundred dollars to pay your sound equipment fees, but even that may be a stretch. However, what they do have is an ardent base of supporters with discretionary funds, which is exactly the target audience – people that love your music and will pay for it by buying concert tickets or downloading music- that you seek. In lieu of cash payments, ask the nonprofit if they can do all of the following to highlight your contribution:

Promote your performance in all promotional materials advertising the event including newspaper ads, radio promos, invitations, event programs, etc. (This creates buzz for your brand by exposing more people to you.)
Ask the event’s emcee to formally introduce you to the crowd and invite them to fill out performance feedback cards (Emcees at the event are generally local TV personalities, so this is an opportunity to make an acquaintance that could help you perform on local TV.)
Distribute performance feedback cards that solicit comments asking how the audience felt about your performance, what could be improved, what was excellent, and requests basic information from them such as name, email address, phone, etc. (This provides you with valuable information about how to improve your performance and also provides you with names and contact information for your fan base/mailing list.)
Ask if you can sell CD’s or merchandise at the event (This might be a tricky one with non-profits, who want their attendees to spend their money on the charity, but if you have the comment cards, you can and should follow up with guests after the event.)
Provide you with a donation receipt indicating that you donated your services for the evening (If the value of your services exceeds $250, then the organization is required by law to provide you with a donation receipt. You value your contribution (at a fair market value which means what you would typically charge and receive) and can deduct that amount from your taxes for the year.)
Request acknowledgement for your donation on thank you announcements that the organization does on print ads and their website (Consumers feel better about brands that give back. This warm, fuzzy feeling can extend to your band as well, if those consumers know that you donated services.)

By sharing your voice at these events, you can improve your performance skills and gain fans for your mailing list, which is the first step in becoming a musical philanthropist like Madonna or Bono. Once you have been performing at a few benefits, word will spread that you are the “go to” act for entertainment. At this point, you can begin to request a fee or begin to be more selective in your choice of events.

Catherine (Katie) Chapman, CFRE is a philanthropic consultant at Fullanthropy. Fullanthropy works with entertainers and charities to create partnerships to generate awareness and revenue that benefit both the entertainer and the charity. For more information about how Fullanthropy can work with you, please contact Katie at kate@fullanthropy.com.

Tips on Songwriting Anyone?

Corey Koehler — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 21:18:12 +0000

Image by Simon J Campbell via Flickr

The Curse

As songwriters you and I are cursed (in a good way of course) when it comes to looking for ways to write better songs and improve the overall songwriting process. We will travel around the world on horseback, study a new religion and drink the blood of a African shaman if we think it will craft a better song.

Also, if you and I want to be able to market our songs, it needs to market itself first. It needs to be good enough to cut through the static, tap your ideal listener on the shoulder and pull them inside.

For these reasons I always have my eyes peeled. I am constantly looking and listening for any scrap of information that can help me write a better tune.

The Cure

Back in January I found a free songwriting e-course (affiliate link) that really opened my eyes. It only took about two emails for me to start seeing many of my songs in a different light. And to be honest it kinda sucked because I thought I was a pretty strongwriter…WRONG.

With each email I was seeing holes. An unfinished thought here, a dead ends verses there and a bunch of words that weren’t pulling their weight when it came to painting pictures in the mind of listeners (very important).

Anyway, go check it out for yourself. Go sign up for the free Strong Songwriting e-course now by clicking here (affiliate link).

Maybe these tips will be just what your need to get your songs heard and, most importantly, remembered. Peace!

Finally, An Internet Music Marketing Plan With Promise (Join Me)!

Your Internet Music Marketing Plan Should Include This Powerful Force

Corey Koehler — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 12:38:34 +0000

I was reading an article on CDBaby about being overly protective of your music and frustrating your fans (you can read it here). I understand where they are coming from but they are implying that it is the only way, and I think that’s a mistake.

I too used to think that this was the law when it came to attracting fans but not anymore. All because of one of the most powerful forces in the universe – curiosity. Let me explain.

Check out the landing page I use to promote my music – Free Love Song. Notice there is no music.

Believe it or not it has signed up over 160 fans at a +20% conversion rate since January 3rd. In other words 1 in 5 people that visit this page site become fans without hear even a note. Here are the actual stats.

Landing Page Stats

I just use some compelling copy to invoke curiosity (will it really melt my heart?) and some testimonials from fans and media (they like it, maybe I will too).

When I think it about it isn’t much different than the record store days. Hell, there were many times my friends and I bought tapes/albums/cd’s from bands and artists we never heard of based on the album cover (or its location in the store or on the rack). Sure we got burned here and there but that’s part of the thrill of discovery. I think this proves that there are still music fans like us out there today.The best part is, they don’t risk $10-$15.

Don’t get me wrong, I still have full tracks featured on my main site. I think that is a good idea for those people who do need to hear my stuff plus it is handy for me to send people there if they ask where they can check me out.

All I am saying is don’t think that you HAVE to have music samples to get new fans. Experiment with some good ole curiosity.

Anyway, that’s my two cents. What do you think?

This Internet Music Marketing Plan Is Working

Corey Koehler — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 21:48:01 +0000

Your Next Music Marketing Plan?

As you may or may not know, I am an indie musician just like you. Like you, and I am making an assumption here, I’ve been trying everything under the freakin sun to promote my music online and off.

A month ago I told you I was trying a new internet music marketing plan and today I will share some of the early results with of the Music Marketing Manifesto with you.

I bought the course in early December 2010. I watched every video, set-up and executed everything exactly as John (the course instructor) teaches, I’ve drilled John with a million questions (as you’ll see in the comments if you sign-up) and put the stuff I learned to work. So far, I am really jacked-up about the results.

In about a months time – including two weeks of set-up (all working in my spare time) – I have added 50+ new fans to my mailing list, sold both CD’s and singles as well as increased my following and chatter on sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. And that is just a start. Some of the results aren’t even in yet because some of the techniques take time to brew (for lack of a better word).

Anyway, if you are serious about building your fan list and increasing your sales, this is something you should take a look at. it is working for me. If you have any questions about it, slap them in the comments below and I’ll answer them ASAP.

Click Here to watch the free video.

Disclaimer: For the record, not only am I a customer of the Music Marketing Manifesto, but I am also an affiliate. I figured it was working so well that it made a lot of sense to raise some money for future projects by helping out my fellow musicians like you.

Advice From The Certified Genius – 1/12/2011

C.G. — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 15:58:41 +0000

C.G.’s Tips of the Week – Advice From The Certified Genius

How’s everyone doing? Good I hope. Happy new year everyone, here’s some new advice for the new year from your favorite producer.

Tips for life: Be thankful. The only thing guaranteed to us in life is death so I’ve come to realize that a lot of things that we take for granted like food, shelter, health and clothing really are blessings. If you look at any third world countries there are people starving to death and dying of malnutrition. Be grateful for what you do have and try not to focus on what you do not have.

Tips for producing/beat making: Diversify. Try new things musically. Don’t be afraid to go out of your element and make a pop or hip-hop beat. Even try some R&B or cross genre tracks. I used to strictly do more rugged and grimey east coast hip-hop. Over the past two years though I really worked on creating my own style and just doing my own thing musically and I have been getting a lot of great feedback. For an example, check out my new remix/cover song to G-Unit’s “Stunt 101″ here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFF1CsN4ZQU or here C.G. Productionz \”Stunt 101\” Remix/Cover Song (same link)

Tips for song writers/artists: Promote. However you want to do it is up to you but you need to promote yourself. Whether you want to use Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, etc. is your choice but you need to get your music out there. People need to know and hear what you’re doing. In most cases a label doesn’t sign artists that don’t already have somewhat of a fan base (not in all cases but generally speaking). Even if you don’t want to end up with a major label you still need to promote because independent artists need a fan base to. Once you have the music or the movement that catches people’s attention you’re halfway there; now you just need to keep their attention.

Tips for finance: Buy assets, not liabilities. Keep this in mind especially when you start making excess money or get a raise or nice bonus. Even if you’re an artist, producer or song writer. Don’t blow your big check on a brand new Benz or big mansion (liabilities: items that depreciate in value and don’t make you any money). Instead, buy some real estate or talk to a stock broker and invest in some stock (assets: items that can make you money, if done correctly). Before investing in anything or buying any real estate it’s very important to educate yourself and make sure you’re working reliable and professional people on your investments. There’s no sense in blowing a few thousand dollars on new designer clothing and then struggling when the money dries up. The truth is, you never know when you might be out of a job or when your music won’t be the center of attention anymore. For these reasons, I believe it’s very important to purchase assets rather than liabilities. Suggested reading: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, A Random Walk Down Wall Street by Burton Malkiel.

I hope this advice helps to bring in the new year on a positive note for everyone and I wish everyone much love and success for 2011. Ending on that note, I’ll talk to you guys in another two weeks. Don’t forget to leave some comments and feedback too!

Thanks,

Posted by Christopher “C.G.” Gallucci of C.G. Productionz

P.S. My second mixtape Payback: Certified Genius Volume 2 will be released on Monday, February 28th. Stay tuned for that, especially if you like the remix that I posted!

Finally, An Internet Music Marketing Plan With Promise (Join Me)!

Corey Koehler — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 19:06:19 +0000

Your Next Music Marketing Plan?

If you, like me, are a musician trying to market yourself and your music online these days, chances are your head is spinning. Spinning because you have advice coming from every freakin direction. But a new music marketing plan could offer light at the end of the tunnel.

The Problem

Half the time something you read today conflicts with something you read last week. Or some music marketing info comes from promoters working with established artist which often times has nothing to do with the little man (why should you or I give a shit what Trent Reznor or Radiohead are doing). And some of it is just plain bullshit.

Hell, even if the info is good, chances are it is only a small piece of the puzzle and only focuses on a small aspect of marketing.

I want something that covers more than just “How To Market Your Music on Twitter” or “How To set Up A Kick Ass Band Website.” I want something proven, that cover most, if not all, of the bases so I can get my hands dirty and take action.

Believe it or not, I think I finally found it.

Promising Solution

For the past few weeks I have been watching videos, watching comments and checking facts presented by a new music marketing course that I believe is gonna help me and a lot of musicians like you sell a bunch of music online. I believed in it so much that I put my money where my mouth is and ponied up the cash to became a member about two hours ago (see picture below).

The course is called the Music Marketing Manifesto (affiliate link).

Stop by, check it out (affiliate link) and see if you agree.

When you decide to join, let me know so I can look for you in the members area and we can compare notes. Or if you think it is bullshit, tell me why in the comments below.

So You Know I Am Not Full Of Shit, Here's Me In The Members Area!

Find Music Sponsors For Your Tunes Here

Corey Koehler — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 05:48:33 +0000

Here’s some good news for you! According to a Sponsorship.com article, music sponsorships opportunities are growing fast and are even outpacing sports.

Why is that good news?

Well, as musicians, you and I are always looking out for new ways to support what we love doing – make music. Right?

So, I figured I would share a little info on a service that can help you and I with that. The service is called Liquid Online Media.

They are like matchmakers. Instead of hooking up men and women, they hook up musicians and companies looking to use music to advertise their wares. For the savvy musician there are plenty of opportunities out there to partner up with potential advertisers BUT this is sort of a hands of, cut-to-the-chase variety which frees up our time up for more important things.

After hearing about this new service I had a few questions for one the founders, Shayne Locke (an occasional guest poster on Musicgoat), and he was more than happy to answer them. Oh and it is a little long but the insight is worth it. Judge for yourself!

Musicgoat: How did this concept come about?
Shayne Locke: With the increase of piracy and the fact that it is so hard for the average artist to police, unless artists are prepared to give the music away in the hope that fans will pay them (a la Radiohead), we needed to find another way for artists to gain income and exposure. Whilst licensing deals are nothing new, the whole concept of licensing music for advertisers is something that really needed attention…and a name…hence the Sound Branding concept. Matching up bands with brands gives an artist an income and builds their profile by linking with an ad campaign.

“…the concept [of their service] was so unique that it actually caught the attention of actor/musicians such as Harold Perrineau (from Lost and the Matrix series) who believe the Liquid concept could extend beyond the music industry and spill over to actor endorsements.” – Shayne Locke

MG: What make you think that you will be successful?
SL: There are so many bands out in independent land that can’t seem to get the exposure they need. With this site we give them exposure directly to the advertisers, agencies and music supervisors….cutting out the middle man. On the other side, an advertiser can go through the site and listen to music that is in the genre or style that they are looking for. This means that they can specifically pinpoint the sound of their brand and find artists that match. It is a service that has been lacking in the music industry to date or, in some cases, only available if an artist signs over their whole catalogue. In fact the concept was so unique that it actually caught the attention of actor/musicians such as Harold Perrineau (from Lost and the Matrix series) who believe the Liquid concept could extend beyond the music industry and spill over to actor endorsements.

MG: How does LiquidOnlineMedia make money?
SL: We only make money when the artist does. We take 15% of every deal and that is it. No publishing contract, no ongoing fee, just a fee for service based on a master license agreement between the buyer (advertiser) and the seller (musician). The site is free for all artists however we do have some fees for extended services such as websites, newsletters, banner ads, etc. We have kept the costs as low as possible so all artists can benefit.

“If each product has a different sound brand then it makes sense that every artist has a shot.” – Shayne Locke

MG: What sort of artist or band is ideal for this program?
SL: I am going to go out on a limb and say every artist because there are millions of different products out there. If each product has a different sound brand then it makes sense that every artist has a shot. We already have everything from standard indie rock like Omaha’s Oxygen to artists like Australia’s Blue King Brown that are Urban Roots. It is our job to match them up with the right type of advertiser. This may be in both sound and belief….artists can be selective about the product they are being branded with.

MG: What sort of company is ideal for this program?
SL: Every company should know what their brand sounds like, be it words and music or just instrumental. Likewise with TV shows and movies. If an advertiser can’t find their sound brand on our Liquid then it becomes our job to search for the sound.

MG: What are some successful examples of the program?
SL: Well we have only just launched but a perfect example would be Jack Daniels. Everyone knows what they sound like…country rock…and they use that so well in ads, campaigns and even competitions. Another perfect example is Cadbury chocolate with the Gorilla Ad. A monkey playing drums to Phil Collins “In The Air Tonight” was so popular, it caused the song to re-enter the charts in England.

MG: What are some not so successful examples of the program and how do you plan on correcting it?
SL: I cant point to a specific source, but i think they are the agencies, companies, films, tv shows that fail to help the advertiser make the connection for the potential consumer. I am not sure there are many, if any, companies like liquid. This is what we created liquid for, to ensure that some connection will be made, and at the same time, bring new, extremely talented artists into the main stream.

MG: Is this only available in certain counties or are you worldwide?
SL: It is available worldwide however we are taking special interest in areas that have been unreachable up to now such as China. Naturally because our home base is Australia we will be active down under plus west coast US because our partners are based in LA.

MG: As an indie artist who is just starting out, I am taking a very local/regional approach. Is the program limited to build relationships/match making on a more country wide/regional approach OR do you plan on marketing your matchmaking services locally?
SL: The campaigns can be as broad or as regional as you desire however maximum exposure equals maximum gain. If you have a song that is liked by a national or international advertiser, why wouldn’t you accept it.

MG: In your experience, what sort of brands are typically looking to for artists to partner up with?
SL: Naturally the big ones like alcohol, food and fashion but then there are so many companies and brands out there that the sky is the limit. There are new shows and movies every week, the opportunities are there, it is just a matter of exposure to the right areas.

“I remember reading a story about Chris Levy who had his song featured on the show Smallville. Now I don’t know how much was paid to Chris but the response was so overwhelming the label had to push forward his album release.” – Shayne Locke

MG: How much money could one of these deals be worth? What can an artist look for?
SL: I remember reading a story about Chris Levy who had his song featured on the show Smallville. Now I don’t know how much was paid to Chris but the response was so overwhelming the label had to push forward his album release. This is the sort of deal that is a dream to an artist. It becomes not how much is a deal worth in upfront dollars, but how much the exposure is worth and the repercussion from the exposure. In saying that, we will be obviously be trying to structure an upfront fee for artists otherwise we don’t get paid.

MG: What types of things do brands require of the artist?
SL: Every campaign will be different. Some brands may just want to do a straight music license whilst other may want to have band endorsements.

MG: What are some examples of endorsement deals?
SL: In Australia, Levi Jeans have just launched Levity Records where they have taken a bunch of artists and are using them in campaigns and promotional opportunities. Probably one of the most famous campaigns was the iPod deal with U2 for Vertigo. By appearing in the commercial, U2 were fully endorsing the product as opposed to just having their music appear.

MG: Are there ways other than with money that artists are compensated?
SL: Let’s face it, everyone loves product. Maybe some bottles of Jim Beam or Jack Daniels? I guess really the best way an artist can be compensated is exposure. To me that is the ultimate aim for any artist. Once exposure occurs the music sales vs piracy issue start to weigh in the artist’s favor.

Whew! I know it was kind of long but there was a lot of info.

What do you think? Did i miss any questions? If so, chuck them into the comments below and I’ll see if Shayne will stop by and answer them.

In the meantime, check out the site and sign up now.

BTW…Like This Stuff? So do 700 plus Musicgoat diehards. Stop by and introduce yourself now. And if you’d like to check out my music and get a couple free downloads ta boot, visit my site PlanetCorey.com.

How I Promote My Music For Free With Grooveshark

Corey Koehler — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:16:13 +0000

Hey bands, solo artists and promoters! Are you looking to get your music heard by a targeted audience of people who would love to become your fan? Dumb question I know but check out this promotion over at Grooveshark that I am taking advantage of to promote my music

Basically, they are willing to give you free plays for helping them drive other bands and artists to their service. Here’s an excerpt from their blog;

Make sure you’re registered at Grooveshark Artists, have at least one song in your profile, and get your fellow musicians to sign up to. THAT’S IT. We will play your music for potential fans via Grooveshark Radio! Here’s the breakdown:

5 referrals = 2,000 targeted Radio plays + 1 month VIP
10 referrals = 4,000 targeted Radio plays + 6 months VIP + chance to win site skin
15 referrals = 6,000 targeted Radio plays + 1 year VIP + chance to win site skin
20 referrals = 20,000 targeted Radio plays + lifetime VIP + chance to win site skin
Top 10 referrals overall = Featured on Grooveshark social media (50k+ readers)
Top 5 referrals overall = Custom banner ads featured on Grooveshark
Winner will receive a free custom site skin on Grooveshark ($10,000+ value)

Cool huh? Just think of all the people you could reach with thousands of plays. You could really bump up email sign-ups and sales.

Here’s that that link again, Grooveshark Artists. Go sign up now!

Make sure you stop back and let me know how it works out for you.

Your Internet Music Marketing Plan Should Include This Powerful Force

Headliner.fm: Let’s Try It Together

Corey Koehler — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 17:28:16 +0000

Image via CrunchBase

I just wanted to run something by my fellow artists out there. I am not sure where but I found this site called Headliner.fm and it seems like it could be worth a shot.

Now I know what your thinking, new services promising to help bands and artist “reach the top” and explode their fanbase are a dime a dozen these days, but, this one kind of jumped out at me as one to try out. See what you think.

The Skinny

It is an interesting concept. Basically they allow bands and artists the opportunity to leverage the fans of other bands and artists – on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, etc – by swapping promotions with them. In other words, you can have your music shared with fans of other bands/artists if you agree to share there music with your fans, on your social networks.

You can run promotions with artists in your genre each with a varying degree of popularity. they can be anywhere from your small local acts all the way up to artist like Diddy and Rob Thomas (not sure exactly how that works but those artists are on Headliners.fm’s homepage).

It is definitely an intriguing concept and could be a nice way to get your music in front of a very targeted audience for a very low investment. Plus I like the idea of hard-working bands and artist working together and helping each other out. After all, we are in this together.

Coming Clean

Now, just so you know, I haven’t done anything other than sign up, connect to my Facebook fanpage and Twitter account and watch as other bands approach me with promotion ideas. Sign up was simple and I was able to get a little over 20,000 plus of what they call band bucks for my 500+ fan base.

As far as promoting the other bands that have approached me, no band or artist has really been anything I wanted to promote to my fans – at least not until I am more familiar with how it works and/or the band/artist is someone I like myself.

I haven’t done a promotion myself – to see if I can parlay any of this into an increased fan base and/or sales – but I am currently in the process of revamping my mailing list and am waiting for that to get done before going full throttle.

Anyway, I figured I would tell you about it in case you thought it would come in handy and to hear your thoughts. Also, I get some more band bucks when other artists sign up using my link (hows that for full disclosure?). I figured I would stock pile some of those band bucks until I have my mailing list revamped.

So go take a look and if you think it is worth a shot, try it out. And if you would, please use my Headliners.fm link to do so. Thanks in advance!

Oh, and if you are already using it, please share your thoughts below so we can all learn.

UPDATE: Read comments below about a few of the experiences had with this service. Also, if you know something we don’t please share.

Like This Shit? So do 700 plus Musicgoat diehards. Stop by and introduce yourself now. And if you’d like to check out my music and get a couple free downloads ta boot, visit my site PlanetCorey.com.

What Is Joyride Rock? Check Out L.A. Based EggShell Egoz And Find Out (Video)

Corey Koehler — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 04:30:55 +0000

Here’s a nice find for you. I met the lead singer David Whitton of the band Eggshell Egoz in Vegas a few weeks ago. He came off as a very cool, smart guy who isn’t afraid to work. Other than finding the time for writing, recording AND pimping his music to the masses, he is a family man, owns his own club and works at another (welcome to the world of the indie artist).

I just wanted to share some of his music with all of you because – not only is he’s a good guy and deserves to be heard – BUT his music is fucking good AND is about as Musicgoat friendly as it gets. The tunes throughout their “Funky Poetz” CD incorporate a variety of influences; funk, metal, pop and a few others things I can’t really pinpoint cuz I’m writing this at a point way past my bedtime.

Anyway, check out this laid back video for one of their newest tunes, “We Ain’t Saying Nothin” and then head over to EggshellEgoz.com, listen to more and pick up a CD.

Thoughts on ‘Success Strategies for Musicians in the Digital Era’

Shayne — Mon, 31 May 2010 03:10:10 +0000

I’m Casey Stewart, the Online Marketing Coordinator for Cowbell Digital Music. I’m sure you have read some of the regular posts by Shayne Locke (CEO of Cowbell) offering his thoughts on the label side of the business and the establishment of a new digital music platform with a focus on the music community and industry insights.

In my position at Cowbell, I take care of our online presence and assist artists in establishing a presence for themselves online. Sometimes they are ahead of the game, spread across the Internet, posting regular Youtube videos etc, while some are not even aware of the power behind social platforms like Twitter. I also source relevant information for independent artists to provide them with the necessary tools to remain relevant, present and engaging with the people that matter the most – their fans.

I came across this video over the weekend from the latest Tech Crunch conference, DISRUPT, in New York. The title of the video alone peaked my interest, “Success Strategies for Musicians in the Digital Era.”

Hmmm, what magical formula will they suggest? This is probably just another ‘social media expert’ with their run-of-the-mill ‘tips and tricks’. Well actually, I was wrong…

The two speakers are Troy Carter, Founder & CEO, Coalition Media Group and worldwide Manager for Lady Gaga and Scooter Braun, Founder & Chair, SB Projects and worldwide Manager for Justin Bieber … only the two biggest stars of the current music world … and incidentaly, the two artists that have indeed successfully harnessed online strategies to their advantage.

Here is the video link.

And here is a quick run down on the main points of the video, what I personally derived from the discussion and how that may relate to the independent artist.

1. Youtube is one of the main places that artists are now ‘discovered’ by both labels, managers and most importantly … fans.

A lot of people think they already know this, but:

* How many Youtube videos have you uploaded?
* How often do you provide Youtube content?
* Are you using a variety of techniques on Youtube? (i.e are you speaking to your fans, with your fans, about your fans … as opposed to posting a new music clip every now and then).

Justin Bieber, while a unique case, did not automatically have hundreds of millions of Youtube views. Even he had to build that (with the help, strategy and knowledge of his manager and team).
At Cowbell Digital Music, we are looking to introduce Cowbell TV so that the artists on our platform have a ready-made audience and can be promoted effectively but your own Youtube channel is important to make that connection with your fans.

2. The speakers were quite reluctant to discuss the monetization of Youtube, though it is a difficult topic to side-step with such huge names. They did however, stress the importance of treating social media as a communication device, not a ‘tool’. Whether it is true or not, their argument lies in the fact that both Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga like to interact with their fans on a personal level. The catch? The artist has to want to be engaged. You may be wondering what that even means – in a practical sense. An example from the video is that Justin Bieber spends 2 hours a day on Twitter. If you don’t have two hours to spend on twitter, spend one hour, or even 30 minutes, simply engaging with people online and watch as your fan base builds.

3. There is a balance between using social media to a ‘business advantage’ and engaging with people on a relatable and personal level.

Some people just don’t know how to use social media. They aren’t sure what they can say, when they can say it, or are worried about how it may come across. Do not worry about this! Write what you want to write, when you feel like writing it (within reason!). This is expected across social media. Fans, followers and facebook ‘likers’ know that you have something to sell, they know that you will tell them about your upcoming show or ask them to buy the album or single BUT they also expect something in return … and that is to get to know who you are.

4. Activity on Twitter is essential if only for the immediacy it provides and the personal relationship that it can potentially build.

Twitter is an amazing platform for the immediacy it provides. If you start talking with someone on Twitter, it’s not hard work (140 characters!) an the chances that they will follow back are high because you have shown an interest. If you have no interest, don’t talk to people on twitter; but also be prepared to have no followers!

5. In the “new music economy,” music has to become a multimedia business.

While you still have to engage the traditional channels – as Scooter states – “It’s hard work … you still have to pay homage to radio and kiss a lot of butt,” it is essential to embrace all forms of media, (including – or I should say, especially – social media) to succeed and build a fanbase that will turn up to the ‘main game’ (touring) and build a network that will support you and buy your merchandise when you are at that stage.

6. I think the final point is still important and that is “if you’re promoting shit, it’s still shit.” The indie artist should be sure to produce the best product possible and let it speak for itself … with (of course) some assistance from Youtube, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter…….

Go and upload a Youtube video engaging with your fans and send it through for us to check out!

Casey Stewart

Online Marketing Coordinator, Cowbell Digital Music

Online Music Marketing Just Got Easier

Corey Koehler — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 02:38:09 +0000

: Image by mandiberg via Flickr

The ugly truth about being a musician is that it’s not only about the music. For evidence of this, simply turn on the radio.

Truly making it requires an understanding of business, marketing, PR, social media, distribution … the list is huge.

Problem is, those of us who care spent most of our time honing our sound, not getting an MBA. The moment I started to understand this is the moment I started becoming a collector of information in answer to these very key questions:

How do I get as many people to hear my music as possible for the smallest amount of money?
What the heck is online music marketing?
How do I sort out all the junk on the Internet to find what truly works?

I was a bit lucky. Having a bit of a background in marketing, I knew all I had to do was find a way to apply those strategies to music. The problem was trying to condense all this information into a usable package.

Then I found Label 2.0, a site that not only professes to help you publish, communicate, distribute, convert and monetize your music, but also lays out everything I ever sought to learn in one neat, tidy package.

For weeks now, I’ve been soaking up everything they have to offer like a sponge and I’m proud to say that their strategies for Internet music marketing simply work.

Founders {Eric and Greg} built this course from the ground up out of proven real life, field tested techniques that translate your efforts into a tenfold marketing blitz. They understand the big picture. They understand musicians.

Within one week I was seeing fruit: over 20 new fans on my mailing list, and $30 worth of music sold. Those are real results, and over time, a real return on your investments in both my time and money.

If you want a winning career playing the music you love and you’re willing to do the legwork, this is the course for you. Check out Label 2.0 now!

Into the Future – Music Like Water

Shayne — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 06:02:07 +0000

Some interesting changes are taking place in the music industry lately. Labels suing ISP’s, new pirate sites opening up every day and musicians wondering where their next dollar will come from. It makes you stop and really consider where the whole digital music world is heading.

Soon I will be starting a series on Piracy but until then let’s take stock of today and where we see ourselves being in the future. One authority is “music futurist”, Gerd Leonhard. His site, http://mediafuturist.com gives us an inkling. Music 2.0 is Gerd’s way of describing where we are all poised, the brink of a new era that will see more mobile content and less physical cds.

This is where the future starts, with a term called “Music like Water.” The Future of Music is treating music like water. Music readily available whenever it is needed and as important to life as water is to the body. The ability to buy music will be as easy as turning on a tap. An almost unconscious decision because it is so accessible.

Once the change occurs, issues such as piracy will become a moot point. What is the point of piracy when a song is so readily available anyway. Does this mean that as musicians we lose the value of the song along with the income. We shouldn’t lose either. Even under the Music Like Water model, the music only “Feels Like Free”. There are plenty of models that operate under the almost free system. It not only encourages the embracing of new music, it allows the artists towards the end of “the long tail” to finally be heard.

There are several terms used in this blog like “The Long Tail” and “Feels Like Free” that need to be explained so stay tuned for the next couple of weeks as I look into the concept of each and how it will affect us all in the music industry.

The Future of the music industry is about to be turned on its head. Are you ready?

Shayne Locke
Cowbell Digital Music – It’s Your Choice

Launching in the Digital Age

Shayne — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 01:16:04 +0000

Last night Cowbell launched a new artist, Mutto (www.mutto.com.au). No stranger to the stage, Mutto, was originally in a band called Soulframe until his stint on Australian Idol 2006 started an unraveling process that led to a 3 year hiatus. Now back with a new single and a renewed passion, Mutto has had to become re-educated into the digital age.

Focusing on digital downloads, the release of Mutto’s single ‘Wish’ is a momentous occasion as he is one of the first Australian artists ever to release an exclusively digital single available for download from the iTunes store, his own website, and through the use of a ‘Bandtag’ Card.

‘Bandtag’ has been supplying promotional download cards for artists to give away songs for a few years now, however Mutto is the first artist to use the card as a replacement for the standard CD single, in fact the first artist in Australia to publicly shun cds in favor of a digital download card that allows buyers to download high quality mp3′s to play on iTunes or Windows Media Player.

It also allows fans to download a copy of the video in a format that will work on ipods and iphones. Check it out here Mutto – “Wish” video

To top it off, apart from radio giveaways and promotion, last night’s launch was exclusively promoted through the use of social media platforms like Facebook. With over 200 attendees, the success of the night is a perfect example of the importance of social media marketing in a digital age. It is a new digital era and artists like Mutto demonstrate how results can be achieved online.

As more artists like Mutto and Nomy reach their full potential they present a very real opportunity for new artists trying establish a solid base. As advocates of the digital age, Cowbell and I will strive to uncover more examples of how new artists are using the internet and its many tools to advance their careers. Stay tuned!

Their Stage Art Goes Beyond Just Custom Kick Drum Heads

Corey Koehler — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 23:59:47 +0000

You have practiced until every song is flawless, your sound is dialed in, and you have the perfect set list. Other than topless chicks and a sold out crowd, what could possibly be missing?

How about some custom made stage art?

I recently stumbled onto a pretty cool site that offers a service that aims to help bands and artists take their on-stage branding to another level. The site is EloquentCreative.com.

What they can do is take logos and/or any of your artwork and plaster it on almost anything; drum heads, amp grill cloths, pick guards, backdrops and more.

Anyway, I could sit here and talk all day about how cool this stuff is but I think it would be better if I let their work speak for itself.

Go check out EloquentCreative.com now!

Do You Need A Custom Album Cover? This Designer Can Help!

Guest Blogger – Shayne Locke from Cowbell Digital Music

Shayne — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:03:10 +0000

Hi I am Shayne Locke, CEO of Cowbell Digital Music.

I count it an absolute honour to be asked to write for Music Goat, which has been a great source of information on indie artists and the side of the music industry that isn’t often talked about. The Goat has asked me to provide a bit of a background about me, and what I do before I start the whole blogging process. So here goes.

Twelve months ago we started a record label – which is rather ironic since we release everything digitally or on cd! On starting the label, we asked ourselves what we would want if we were artists. The number 1 answer was – To Own Our Music. Not give the rights to our music away.

A big inspiration to our company setup was Terry McBride of Nettwerk Music in Canada. His philosophies answer the question of Copyright Control that we posed so we decided to run with the model that has been so effective for Terry. Cowbell Digital Music was born and the big point of difference was Collapsible Copyright (artists owning their music).

Everything about the label was different. Focus on digital, multiple service agreements and helping artists connect with fans by encouraging the use of social networking.

Another major point to our label has been the establishment of Cowbell China. As of last month, we are the first independent label to be officially on the ground in China with an office in Shandong province and the support of an official government run website. No other indie label has managed to get to this point so we consider it a privilege to be able to take our artists into China.

With all the massive leaps that we are taking as a label, we are also establishing a second platform to help new emerging artists find a voice. With a focus on the music community it totality, it will cover all genres, all styles and give artists a sense of belonging while also allowing an artist’s growing fan base to buy their music at a price set by the artist.

So please keep an eye out for my posts as I shed a bit of light on what is happening in the industry and maybe even provide a few options for the struggling artist in all of us.

For more information about us, head over to www.cowbell.com.au

Shayne Locke
Cowbell Digital Music – It’s Your Choice.

A DIY Musicians Review of The Indie Bible

Corey Koehler — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 04:41:50 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

After experiencing the Indie Bible from a blogger/podcaster perspective for a few years now, I laid down the cash and read it as a musician who’s looking to promote his music.

I have been digesting this bad boy for about a few months now and I can’t believe the info in here. For the indie artist, the Indie Bible is the Swiss Army knife of music promotion. In other words, it is pretty damn handy!

The book is a great resource which provides over 9000 resources in a variety of ways: Radio Stations, journalists, labels, publicists, managers as well as providing a healthy dose of articles from industry guru’s to help you use the resources to the best advantage.

Here’s the breakdown.

The whole thing is divided up by genre, label, radio, publication, region, etc. This is a huge time saver. You are able to really hone in on your the resources that are specific to both your style of music and region of promotion. You do not have to spend hours sifting through a ton of non-related info to find the resources you need to tap.

Info packed articles by indie music guru publicist Ariel Hyatt, CDBaby founder Derek Sivers, and many more. It makes no sense having all this publicity if you don’t know how to use it.

The cover topics like “How To Submit Music For Review”, “How To Be your Own Publicist”, “Band And Press Kit Essentials”, “Building A Music Site That Sells: Promote Your CD Not Yourself” (one of my favorite), and on and on. This information alone is worth the price of admission.

Even the Ads Are Helpful…

The Indie Bible does does a great job of putting together ads that compliment the rest of the content and serve the ultimate purpose of the book – providing a thorough and helpful resource for indie artists. No booze or or get rich quick ads in these pages.

Things I Would Do Different…

Only thing I would change is I would probably order the hard-copy in the mail. When in digital format, the resource is almost too big and hard to use as a reference. If you can wait for a few days and are willing to fork over a couple dollars extra for shipping, I would recommend going this route.

Also, every year there are resources added. If you want your copy of the indie Bible to stay current by getting the yearly updates, you will need to purchase the update packages ahead of time (It is too bad that these are not offered for free but they are worth it).

As a Blogger/Podcaster…

From a Bloggers/Podcasters perspective I can tell you that the Indie Bible works as advertised. I get tons of email and tons of snail mail from artists, record labels and publicists – in many different genres – all over the world. Obviously every artist doesn’t get covered but each and every one gets fair shot at coverage AND has direct access to me in order to follow up or establish a relationship.

So there you have it, a quick and dirty review of the Indie Bible. I highly recommend you get yourself a copy if you are serious about getting the word out about your music. There is no way in hell you would be able to assemble all of this info on your own – you’d be nuts for trying. Besides, you have better things to do with your time, like write and play music.

Click here now and buy the Indie Bible.

Just so you know, I do get a small kick back if you should decide to buy The Indie Bible using a link on this site. I want to thank you for the support. I am an indie artist myself and I will use the cash generated as another revenue stream to cover some of the costs associated with being an indie artist. Rest assured that you are supporting a fellow artist and keeping it in the indie family.

Top Twenty List of Music Review Blogs

Corey Koehler — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:21:54 +0000

: Image by Bright Tal via Flickr

Today, I wanted to share a post with you from a blog I’ve been checking in on lately. The blog is Slowcoustic and they recently did a post which points to another post from a blog called ClickTicket. These posts list what they feel are the Top Twenty Music Review Blogs.

I figured some of you might be looking for a little more in music review department, because, as I’ve admitted in my latest podcast, I am not the most frequent blogger on the planet. (note: the fact that 500+ of you stick around points to the fact that I am possibly the luckiest music blogger on that same planet).

Oh and if you’re wondering why I am sharing the Slowcoustic version of the story – rather than serving it up straight from the ClickTicket tap – it is because I think Slowcoustic’s version gives you a little insight as to what kind a blog Slowcoustic is (since they were on the list themselves).

Its like watching an awards show, many times I think it is more interesting to hear how the artist goes about accepting an award than it is to hear the announcement itself (does that make sense?). I think you will be left with the same impression I was left with, Slowcoustic is appreciative, humble and not afraid to prop up fellow blogs. In other words, good people!

One last thing, without knowing fore sure what the criteria for this top 20 list are, I figured I’d throw in a few that I would consider in mine. If you are into hard rock and metal check out Hard Rock Hideout and Rock My Monkey are both very solid.

Any hey, if there are any that you know of that are on not on this list but you might put in your top 20, please, share in the comments below. Maybe we’ll have enough to put together a Musicgoat top twenty.

Hey Bands and Artists! Do You Have What Willie Has?

Corey Koehler — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:20:45 +0000

: Image via Wikipedia

When most artists and musicians dream about becoming stars they think of private planes, big houses, lots of bling (wow, did I just say bling?), hordes of willing groupies and pretty much anything else described in that Nickelback tune. But, after giving it some serious thought, I think that that kind of thinking is a little shortsighted and may be completely off base. I think that there is something that would be a lot better.

One of my favorite all time music related stories was about when Willie Nelson had to auction off all of his property to pay off his tax debt. The day of the auction, a large group of his fans showed up, purchased various pieces of property and then gave each piece right back back to Willie. Now that is a fan base!

How did he do it? I have a feeling that it had to do with most, or all, of the following; He stay true to himself, worked his ass off, stayed connected to the fans and worried most about how we could help others. I think if we can do that, the rest of the stuff – if it even matters at that point – will take care of itself.

What do you think?

Music Review: Jennifer Dixon, the Face of Alternative Country’s Uncompromising Future

treadmarkz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 06:31:54 +0000

Guest post: Treadmarkz is my brother-in-law, a Human Beatles Encyclopedia and the author of the weblog Treadmarkz.wordpress.com.

Some Country music purists would probably say that anything that warrants the name “Alternative Country” is not really Country. But ultimately it is the domain of the fan to judge what an artist is or is not, to them.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Jennifer Dixon.

A little country sensibility with a style that hovers along the cusp of blues, pop, jazz owing to a stint on Memphis’ legendary Beale Street, and nearly a decade in Nashville, her new CD, “2 Years” is the fruit of experience. She did not come out of nowhere.

Which makes it all the more uncanny that she has been labeled “un-Nashville.”

The intro to “A Little You For Me” sounds like a nod to “I Lie Around” by Paul McCartney and Wings. But this Norah Jones-like tune comes from the heart of a woman who has given all she can give to the world, yet she finds she’s got a little more left for her man if he’ll meet her halfway. Like “I Lie Around” it never really takes off. It threatens to, repeatedly. But when it comes down to it, it’s just right.

“Too Tired To Care” is Dixon, having been there, done that and not doing it again regarding love. When she starts to hear the same old lines, she is just that, too tired to care. It is a mellow funk romp with a lyric delivered in focused rapid fire, highlighted with some sultry vocal inflections.

“Easy Goodbye” seems to be a follow up on the same theme in that, having heard it all before, its easy to let go and move on. These two tracks are the most un-Nashville of the bunch. One can picture many of today’s top female vocalists flagrantly over-doing “Easy Goodbye”, robbing it of its symbolic ease. One of its greatest features is that the musicians, while doing some top-notch work, back off and let the vocals shine.

With these tracks what you get is a many-tiered cynical view of love. In that respect, “If You’re Looking For An Angel” is refreshing. Just when you are expecting something like “Strong Enough” by Cheryl Crow, it turns into something closer to “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt in its vulnerability. For instance, in the chorus, Dixon sings “If you’re looking for an angel…” Having heard a couple of these songs, one may be surprised to hear her continue with “here I am.” It’s sweet, its comforting, and it demonstrates that with a few gentle, sincere words, yes, women can make men, dare I say it, swoon.

Love Me Back” delivers the very subtlest hints of the smoky vocals of Natalie Merchant or Melissa Etheridge, yet tips the scales with those well-executed vocal inflections again.

Dixon finally brings the thunder with “I Need a Man.” It’s gritty, harkening back to Tanya Tucker, matching the vocal strength of Carrie Underwood. Here Dixon is laying it all out on the line as if to say “This is what I need, damn you!”

Four of these tracks can be heard on her homepage www.jenniferdixon.net, and one is featured in the indie film “Shattered”.

Tips for Winning a “Battle of the Bands”

Susan — Tue, 26 May 2009 03:22:46 +0000

Guest post: Susan Kemman resides in South Park (no kidding), is a Prog music nut and is the Assistant Director of - and talent scout for – the The Highest Independent Music Tour in the World, The South Park Music Tour. Take it away Susan!

The Summer will be brimming with competitions, festivals, tours and holiday bashes; many opportunities for getting your Band a gig or a little name recognition. Talent Searches, Tours and Battle of the Bands pay out prize money or comps equal to what you would earn at a gig, ALL for just a one hour performance. Networking with the Bands and Industry people at these Events can offer tremendous earning potential by breaking you into new Venues.

Here are some simple tips to get an edge over your competitors:

1. Play original songs. You’re allowed only one cover song and it’s got to be perfect.
2. Your song should have basic structure. Like in writing; intro, body and conclusion.
3. Songs shouldn’t be longer than 5 minutes.
4. Play for your allotted time or less, but never more.
5. Move. Everyone in the Band needs to be active at the same time.
6. Your timing needs to be impeccable. It proves a Band is well rehearsed.
7. Spend very little time with sound checks; one song only with minor quick adjustments if absolutely required.
8. Get the audience moving. Play your hottest beats and most gut punching riffs from song one and don’t stop.
9. Demonstrate your instrument or vocal talent with a solo. Have a focus song. 45 seconds of fame.
10. Try to go last in the line-up, leaving a lasting impression.

These competitions not only put cash in your hand but promote your Band. You will need to register early or go through an acceptance process with small fees to be a performer. They’re usually sponsored by radio stations, sound companies or huge corporations. Seek out Talent Searchs, Tours and Battle of the Bands to compete and “be seen” in your area. No matter how small the Venue; if you come out as the winner, it’s a feather in your cap so toot your own horn and post that big win on your message boards.

Musicians: Why You Don’t Need to Make an Album

Corey Koehler — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 20:25:52 +0000

Over the past week I’ve come across three music industry pundits discussing the importance – or lack there of – of the album in today’s wide open arena of music marketing. I thought I would share them with you below and then offer up a few of the reasons why, as an aspiring artist, an album isn’t in my immediate plans.

So, if you are an artist these are great reads. They will give you some perspective into how you might want to formulate your marketing strategy from this point forward.

And, if you are a fan who likes to geek out on anything and everything music, you’ll like it too. After all, you are the most important piece of this entire puzzle. Check it out and let us know what you think.

The Pundits

First, check out Bob Lefsetz over at Lefsetz.com. He feels that the Album is dead and explains why in his posts Albums and More Albums.

Meanwhile, Scott Perry of New Music Tipsheet – by way of Hypebot – thinks that Bob Lefsetz is promoting career suicide, and says so in his post In Defense of the Album. (For the record, considering the nature of his site he may be a tad biased. Just my opinion).

And finally, I saw this post this morning by Dave Allen discussing the “End of the Album as the Organizing Principle” over on the Music Think Tank.

My Two Four Cents

Other than the points made by Bob and Dave, there are a few other reasons why for me – as an aspiring indie artist - that releasing my music song by song makes sense right now.

First, I don’t want to spend the time pouring over 10-12 songs. In the time I was spending contemplating the album, I could have 2-4 songs floating around working the crowd and building a little momentum while at the same time allowing me to getting a better feel for who my audience is. This would allow me to make certain adjustments to my marketing strategy if needed.

Second, I don’t have a ton of experience recording and I don’t want to make an entire CD of half ass recordings. Practice makes perfect right? I might have a few below average recordings out of the shoot but after 2, 3 or 4 I should be kicking out some good stuff.

Third, releasing one track at a time gives me opportunity to monetize and/or promte the song more than once. I plan to use the song as a way to get the fan interested enough to opt in to my list and then, down the line, I could release all the tunes as part of a compilation.

Fourth, I think that focusing on one song at a time will make each song better overall. How many times have you bought a cd’s where you just know 5-6 of the track were nothing more than filler. Had the artist had more time to contemplate the tunes they would have either been better or just thrown out.

Honorable Mention

There are few other reasons why a single by single would make sense for an Indie artist.

If you aren’t recording yourself you may be paying for studio time. Recording a song at a time may not be practical over the long haul but in the short run would be. Plus, if you are savvy, having a single or two could help you raise money for future recordings.

Or, maybe you aren’t sure if you have what it takes. Dipping your toe in the water with a single or two before jumping in head first ccould give you some insight as to what is to come.

Finally, maybe you need a little validation of your or your bands talent. Better to find out after a song or two than after a huge investment of time, money and emotion.

The Finish

In general, I think there is something to be said about not blowing your wad in one shot. Slowly releasing a track or two at a time may create a little anticipation for the listener while giving the artist another legitimate opporutnity to communicate with his audience.

Hell, single by single worked for many of the greats The Beatles, Elvis, Cash, etc.

Besides, you can always do an album at some point if you really want to. Afterall, it is what some of you and I were brought up on and there will always be a little bit of nostalgia for that format.

Bottom line, find what works for you and roll with it. What do you think?

Bring the Live Music to You with a Concert in Your Home

Corey Koehler — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 02:08:29 +0000

Ever thought about hiring an artist or a band to come and play right in your living room? If so, today is your lucky day. Over the last few days, I have stumbled upon three websites that are making it their mission to hook up artists with people like you that are willing to try something different for their next party or social gathering. Those three sites are; PrivateConcerts.com, ConcertsInYourHome.com and MPTrax.com.

Now I didn’t see John Mayer, Springsteen or Metallica looking for work on any of the sites – not that most of us could afford their services anyway – but, if you look listen around, you will find some talented artists for some pretty reasonable prices. And I imagine the talent pool will only get better as the popularity of these sites grows.

I think it is a great idea for both the fans and the artists. Hell, as soon as I get my music up and running, you can bet I will be throwing up a profile on one or all of these sites. I mean, how cool would it be to be invited into someones home to party with someones closest friends AND get paid?

So next time you are looking for a live music fix, why go out to the club or coffee shop? Hop on to one of these sites and then hire yourself a capable musician to entertain you – and your pals – right in the comfort of your own home.

Music Marketing Strategies: Where You Can Send Your Music Demos

Corey Koehler — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 14:02:43 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

If you are an artist or band looking for a place to send your music demo and/or get your music into TV, movies, ads or games, I have a few suggestions for you. Check it.

Music Licensing

Music Licencing 101 – If you are looking into getting your music on TV shows, movies, advertising and/or video games, check this program out. I am taking Aaron’s – the teacher at Music Licensing 101 – 90 Day Challenge now and I have already had my tunes accepted into a few publishing library’s so I can tell you that he knows what he is talking about.

You can sign up to get his free ebook here (affiliate link) to get a solid introduction to getting your music in placed.

Also, you do a Google search for “music industry directory”.

All-in-One

Indie Bible -For a measly $34.95, this 330 page music marketing Swiss Army Knife will show you how to get access to 4000 music publications willing to do reviews, 3200 radio stations willing to play your songs along with 1200 other resources looking to help you get the word out. They also have a long list of labels out there that might be looking for what you have to offer.

I know this works because the Musicgoat is listed in here and I get bombarded with tons of mail – e and snail – filled with CD’s, mp3′s, press releases, review requests, etc. Go get a copy now (affiliate link).

Between those to resources you should be well on your way to getting your music out there. And if I missed any, let me know in the comments below. Good luck!

WAIT! You don’t want to miss the next review, podcast, music promotion tip or whatever else music related we decide to put out here. Subscribe to the Goat now for the all time low price of free and you will get all the kick ass content from the Goat fast and easy. Just subscribe to Musicgoat.com newsletter by email now and have this stuff in your inbox seconds after I post it .

Hear the Owl and Bear Music Podcast

Corey Koehler — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:53:35 +0000

Not only do I host and produce my own podcast BUT I like to listen to others as well (shocking isn’t it?). When you get a chance check out the Owl and Bear podcast. It was recommended to me by a friend – (aka LeeTee) over on Stumbleupon. If you like a great mix of [...] Related posts:

Your 13 Step Guide To Becoming a Beatles Fan

treadmarkz — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:12:20 +0000

Guest post: Treadmarkz is my brother-in-law, a Human Beatles Encyclopedia and the author of the weblog Treadmarkz.wordpress.com.

I am sure you have heard all the hubbub, but maybe you never quite knew what it was all about, this thing, this MANIA called the Beatles. If you have been thinking of getting into the Beatles (and I mean really into the Beatles, not just buying their latest Greatest hits compilation) this is not the Beatles’ Top 12 Best Albums, and I am not reviewing each album. This is just the order you need to buy them in, in order to feel the full effect of what they did.

The chronological order in which they were originally released seems like the most sensible way to do it. But this isn’t sensible. If you get into the Beatles you have to be prepared for a little disjointedness and things that come out of left field. You don’t have to follow this guide exactly, and as you will see, I give you opportunities to make your own choice. Also, this is just the original Beatles Music we are talking about here, not Let It Be…Naked, or the Love Album. Having said that, I give you…The List:

1. Rubber Soul, 1965: This is the album that really showed the progression starting to happen. The two previous albums showed a little bit of experimentation, but it was more superficial, whereas the progress the Beatles made on Rubber Soul had some substance. Better lyrics and more interesting innovations musically. But the main reason why this is the first Beatles album you need to get is that this shows where they had been and where they were going, musically.

NOTE: If you are going to get the Beatles Past Masters I & II albums (compilations of songs that are not on their albums), and I recommend you do, I think you should get them at this point. They will help guide you through.

2./3. A Hard Day’s Night, 1964/Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band, 1967: Okay here is where you get to make a decision on your own. No matter which of these two you choose first, these are the next two albums you need. You will find out quickly from Rubber Soul what you like about the Beatles. So if you liked the poppy, peppy, happy songs from Rubber Soul (mostly Paul’s) then your next move would have to be A Hard Day’s Night. It is the first Beatles album which was composed entirely by the Beatles themselves. No cover tunes. A big step for the Beatles and mankind.

If you found that in Rubber Soul you got more from the down-tempo, more thoughtful songs (mostly John’s) then I would move forward and make your second pick Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band. This is where the progress they were making on Rubber Soul completely came into fruition. Though John did not do as much on Pepper’s as on Rubber Soul, it was his infusion of Bob Dylan-like lyrics into the Beatles repertoire which strongly affected the music on Pepper’s.

4. Revolver, 1966: If your last pick was Pepper’s, you will want to know how they got from Rubber Soul to Pepper’s. It was a hell of a jump, musically, but with Revolver you get to fill in the blank, while still getting a taste of pre-Rubber Soul moptop from Paul. However, if A Hard Day’s Night was your last pick, then Revolver will serve the purpose of blowing your mind. Get ready.

5. Abbey Road, 1969: Simply the Beatles final recorded album giving generations of rockers something to strive for. This is the benchmark.

It was important that you get a taste of every era of the Beatles music before we move on. Now that you have, with the core of the band’s progressive era covered, you need an album that can show you everything that the Beatles were capable of. And I think from country, to reggae to hard rock to classical, we can only find the answer in….

6. The Beatles, aka The White Album, 1968: The Beatles was an album that, like Rubber Soul, gives listeners a chance to decide what they really like about the Beatles. Did you like the straight up rock songs, or did you like it when they tried something unusual for pop/rock? Well the White Album gives you a little bit of both with a splash of something new…Heavy Metal! This is the album that brought us “Helter Skelter” but it also has a few other head-bangers like “Everybody’s Got Something To Hide Except Me and My Monkey”, “Birthday” and “Yer Blues” which is really metal-blues. So if you are hooked on the Beatles, and at this point you should be, then you are probably ready for a double album. Go for it. You will not be disappointed.

7. Help!, 1965: Time to cool it down again. Time for something a little more predictable yet captivating. Help! came out just months before Rubber Soul, where we started. This one is just full of great songs, and I think that is what we need right now. “Yesterday”, “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” “Help!” and “Ticket To Ride” are all essentials and they are all here. This album will prove that song after song about love can still be interesting! And if you like it, then…

8. Beatles For Sale, 1964: Now we are really getting back to the moptop days. But this one is interesting because, just like Help!, it shows of the Beatles country/folk chops, without losing that pop flair. There are a lot of cover songs on here as there will be for the remainder. But the Beatles self-penned songs are introspective, and you are able to put yourself in the story. For the first time the Beatles really “take you there” on Beatles For Sale.

9. Let It Be, 1969: We don’t want you to delve too far back into the catalogue. You should probably now pick up Let It Be. Though it is often considered the Beatles most disappointing album, that is only because of what they had done in the few years leading up to Let It Be. They had changed the entire definition of rock music with Revolver and Sgt. Pepper!! So of course it was disappointing for fans to hear them going back to their roots, which is exactly what this is. But you will still get a little taste of psychedelia from “Across the Universe” and “I Me Mine”.

And if that is what you liked…

10. Magical Mystery Tour, 1967: It is kind of like the Beatles trying to expand on the concept of Sgt. Pepper’s but not quite getting there, but it is chock full of great singles, much like the Help! album, but much weirder. “All You Need Is Love” and “I am The Walrus” are on this one, and it is the only place you will get “Strawberry Fields Forever” or “Penny Lane” unless you’ve already got the “1″ album. And if you do, I hope this list has helped you take your Beatles listening further.

11./12. Please Please Me/With the Beatles, both from 1963: The beginning of the Fab Four. These albums show you where the Beatles came from. On these two albums, which really could be considered Vol. 1 and 2 of the same album, they bring you covers of the music that they loved when they were a struggling bar band, and they bring you their hand-written songs in which they use what they learned from the music they loved. To me, it really doesn’t matter which of these two you get first.

13. Yellow Submarine Songtrack, 1999 or the Yellow Submarine Soundtrack: It is up to you which one you get, but there is a huge difference. Either way you are only getting four songs that you haven’t already heard before. But the difference is this: The Soundtrack has the four songs you have never heard before, along with the song “Yellow Submarine” and “All You Need Is Love”, and rest is instrumentals by the George Martin Orchestra, if you are into that. The Songtrack on the other hand, has the aforementioned four “new” songs, and 11 other random songs taken from Rubber Soul to Magical Mystery Tour which appear in the film. It is a nice mix and you can get your fix of a couple of different eras in Beatles music without having to switch CDs.

Welcome to Beatledom, my friends. Enjoy!

Undercover Hippy Needs Your Help

Corey Koehler — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:33:21 +0000

Just wanted to pass something on to you. I received an email from the Undercover Hippy – a big favorite here on Musicgoat. He is looking for everyones support in getting to the main stage at this years Sunrise Celebration Festival.

If you don’t know who I’m talking about, check out the podcast featuring the Undercover Hippy.

Read his words below and then join me in voting so we can get him some of the exposure he and his music deserve.

Hi Guys,

if I’ve asked you already, sorry! But I really need everyone to vote for me and to tell their friends to vote! (Details below)
Thanks! Hope you’re all well and happy!

VOTE FOR ME!
Hello my lovely friends!

Once again I need your help! I wasn’t booked to play the Sunrise Celebration festival this year, but I still have one chance at a slot on the Main Stage… it all depends if I can get enough votes!

All you need to do is click on the link below and enter your email address… it’s that simple…

Please show some love and take 30 seconds to do this J Also, please forward this to anyone else you think may want to help…

Here’s the link: Vote for the Undercover Hippy

OTHER NEWS

In other news, I’ve got lots of gigs booked for the coming months… check it all out on my website: www.undercoverhippy.com.

If you’re on FACEBOOK (come on, you know you are), then please become a fan of my Facebook Undercover Hippy page.

That way I can invite you to gigs and stuff…

I’ve got a new band developing as we speak… having our second rehearsal tomorrow, and our first gig on Thursday at the Tao Bar in Bristol . Check my website for details!

Right that’s all for now J

Cheers my dears!
Billy xx

How to Quickly Turn Your Facebook Fans into Email Subscribers

The Beatles’ Studio Revolution of 1962

treadmarkz — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:03:56 +0000

Guest post: Treadmarkz is a Human Beatles Encyclopedia and author of the weblog Treadmarkz.wordpress.com

Buddy Holly wrote his own songs. Chuck Berry wrote his own songs. Little Richard wrote his own songs. Paul McCartney and John Lennon, being devoted followers of all three, began writing their own songs early, and often. McCartney wrote rough versions of “I’ll Follow the Sun” and “When I’m Sixty-Four” in about 1957. And many of the originals from the Beatles first album were written by John and Paul around that same time. They knew that it set them apart from the other up-and-coming bands.

But rock n’ roll had changed drastically by 1960. Holly was dead, Berry was in jail, Little Richard had become a preacher, and Elvis, the King of Rock and Roll himself, had become a balladeer, more interested in making movies than creating a movement. Rock n’ Roll was in trouble. Balladeers singing already-proven hit songs were running the charts. Nothing new was happening!

Fast-forward to September 1962. The Beatles had just been brought in to record their first professional single at Abbey Road Studio. In June of that year, during their audition, they had brought in a number of original songs that they intended to show off. After playing them all, producer George Martin did not think any of them were strong enough to be a single. He also did not like their drummer, Pete Best.

When the Beatles came back in September with Ringo Starr on the skins, Martin suggested a song called “How Do You Do It?” written by Mitch Murray, a professional songwriter. So the Beatles came in and recorded the song. But they knew it did not suit them. They insisted on having another go at a song they had submitted in June, “Love Me Do”, and they continued to argue for it until they got their way.

Their first single, “Love Me Do” was their own song, as was it’s b-side “P.S. I Love You”. Gerry and the Pacemakers went on to success of their own with “How Do You Do It?” but not as much success as the Beatles. The Beatles version of the song can be heard on the Beatles Anthology 1 CD, disc one.

The version of “Love Me Do” recorded on Sept. 4 would become the Beatles first single, but another version would be recorded for the Beatles first album, Please Please Me a week later. It seems that Martin did not like Ringo’s drumming either, at this point, and brought in a professional session drummer, Andy White.
Many fans now point out how painfully simple and repetitive “Love Me Do” is. This may be true, but the Beatles had taken creative control from day one, and went on to inspire generations of musicians to sing their own songs, and do your own thing. September 4, 1962 is certainly the day “The Sixties” began, at least for rock n’ roll.

How To Succeed In Getting Gig/Tour Press Coverage

Kenny — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:06:26 +0000

I recently received a question from a musician who is having more than her fair share of problems obtaining print media coverage in areas where her band is touring.

Hopefully, my advice and ideas that I gave her can benefit you and your band as well should you experience similar difficulties with obtaining print media support for your gigs/tours.

________________________________________________

FROM: Megan

I started touring with my band last fall (we were in New York City before that…), and we are about to leave on another tour for our debut ep. Booking is going as well as can be expected

starting out, but we’re having a hell of a time getting any press…we have a kit and an epk, and a press release, and we send off everywhere, but we’re in that limbo spot where honestly, not many people care about our music enough yet…any suggestions?

________________________________________________

[---MY RESPONSE---]

What has been occurring for several years (if not longer) and, particularly, with local and regional print publications, is a little thing called “nepotism.”

I utilize this phrase to describe print papers that will only devote “ink” (press coverage) to their local/regional up-and-coming musical artists, with the only exceptions being granted for mega superstars or outside artists who are coming into the media sources’ area for performances, of which the latter describes Megan your situation.

And, since you and your band are, indeed, touring and “qualify” for coverage in your performance areas, you should conduct an in-depth search on the web (using Google) for print media in each of your tour stops.

As an example, if you are playing Richmond, Virginia, you should simply use Google to search phrases such as:

* “richmond, virginia print media”

* “richmond, virginia print publications”

* “richmond, virginia music magazines”

* “richmond, virginia arts and entertainment magazines”

* “richmond, virginia daily newspapers”

* “richmond, virginia weekly newspapers”

or similar key phrases.

You should then contact the print editors or music editors in each area where you will appear and inform them on your upcoming performance location, i.e., name of venue, date, time, etc. and also request if the editor would be interested in interviewing you/your band in advance of your performance.

At this time, you should also direct the media to your website for advance review of your music, biography, etc. With print publications, you can do interviews via telephone, or if the media prefers “in person” interviews, you could simply schedule the interview earlier in the day, prior to your performance, which will mean you will need to get into town a bit earlier than

normal set-up time.

You should also bear in mind that, with print publications, “lead time” (the amount of advance time publications require to review projects before writing about them) is very crucial in order to ensure media coverage.

Daily newspapers, generally, demand a minimum of 2-3 weeks “lead time” and, possibly, longer depending on the publication. The “trick” is to stay anywhere from 3-4 weeks ahead with the (“lead time”) of each tour appearance.

Example: For an upcoming May 3, 2008 appearance, daily print media contacts should be initiated around April 10th at the *latest*.

Likewise, you should also contact radio station talk shows, television morning shows, prime time talk/interview shows, television newscasts, and cable music and entertainment shows at *each* station in each of your tour cities.

Should you secure any media interviews, you should then notify other media contacts in the same area that you will be interviewing with the particular source, in an effort to influence other area media to consider you as well, in addition to requesting their reviewing your already-scheduled interview. This can (sometimes) serve to foster a bit of competition between local media, with all being good for the musical group.

To add even better “fuel to the fire,” you should invite all media contacts in *each* area out to your performances. This can, potentially, serve as background media coverage *after* you have performed, and the opportunity to get TWO bits of media coverage, thus, prolonging your exposure in any single given area.

Be sure to provide complementary media passes for all local media contacts that have agreed to come out to the show, as well as inform the venue owners of the media contact names. This should be tightly coordinated and confirmed with venue owners or managers prior to the show.

While this seems a bit more work, as you can see, there are definite advantages as well as “extra” opportunities for media coverage within a single tour location if conducted well.

Now, multiply this degree of opportunity within *each* tour area, and you are likely to create quite a buzz on your tour route as well as have a degree of successful results through implementing this proactive process.

________________________________________________

Editor’s Note: Kenny Love is a radio/video promoter and media publicist, as well as co-owner and Director of Marketing for Eartastic Records. Get more information regarding him from his MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/jazzman795

Organize the Hell Out of Your MP3 Music Collection

Corey Koehler — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:57:45 +0000

I just wanted to pass this on since I imagine most of you have huge library’s of MP3′s, like myself. Here is a post on a site called Killer Tech Tips about organizing your MP3 collection.

Check it out. Let me know if you use any of this stuff already.

Discover the Best New Cover Songs on Coverville

Corey Koehler — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 03:44:28 +0000

If you’ve listened to my podcasts then you know my fondness for good cover songs. If you share that fondness, then you will be all over this site I found. This site is called Coverville.

They have podcasts and articles focusing exclusively on the lovable music retreads. So far I’ve heard very cool versions of The Cults “She Sells Sanctuary” and Pete Townshend’s “Let My Love Open the Door” on episode 414.

I also read an eye opening – yet not surprising – article shedding some light on some of the shady practices of American Idol.

This is solid Musicgoat reading and listening material. I am already a subscriber and you can bet I will be adding it to my blogroll.

Hmm…all covers, all the time. Damn! Now why didn’t I think of that?

Stop by and check out Coverville today.

A List of the Worst Cover Songs

Your Guilt-Free Free Music Downloads Report: We7

Corey Koehler — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 02:57:09 +0000

Are you looking for quality free music downloads that don’t leave you with all that guilt? Who isn’t right? Well check this out.

Lately, finding music downloads is getting easier and easier to do. So easy, that their are a ton of places to look. You could spend hours looking and comparing websites before even doing what you really want to be doing; downloading and listening to free music. Thats where I come in.

Every week or so from now until the foreseeable future, I am going to be doing a weekly post on where you can find free music downloads, what you have to do to get those downloads and point out a few tracks that you might want to check out.

Lets get to it.

Website
Todays source of tasty free music comes from a site called We7. The site was initially funded by Mr. Shock the Monkey himself, Peter Gabriel. The site relies on the use of advertising to sponsor songs to generate revenue so that you and I can get free music.

So far it seems to be working. They have over 100,000 users and have had over one million downloads. I will spare you all the intimate details but if you want to learn more stop by the We7 about page.

What to Like
Other than the fact that all of the downloads don’t cost anything, they are in an mp3 format and are DRM free.

Another feature that you might like is the one that lets you subscribe to your playlist as a podcast either in iTunes or whatever you currently use to aggregate your feeds.

Finally, sign-up is quick and you are hunting for tunes in no time.

What Not to Like
The ads before the songs are only 10 second ads. Which is not bad when your hunting and taste testing but they could get annoying when a bunch of the ad laden songs are in a playlist. But, when you think about it, if you like the track enough to put it in a playlist, just buy it and it will be ad free. Also, after about four weeks you can re-download the song without the ads.

In the pet peeve department, I don’t like the fact that the previews are extremely short. It is difficult to tell if it is worth the download until you actually do so. This is something that is common on a lot of sites so I won’t hold it against them.

Finally, I noticed that there where quite a few tracks that were not available in certain geographic locations. Track links by popular artists like Frank Sinatra, Motorhead, and Willie Nelson – I could go on – where inactive. Not exactly sure why that is. Must be some contractual distribution B.S. or something.

Tracks to Download
Here are a few tunes that should interest you. There are a ton more so stop over and check it out for yourself. If you do find anything that you think I missed, please share. Let us know in the comments below.

Baum “Happy Proud and Free” and “All Down There”
-Good ultra-mellow acoustic Switzerland style. Very good guitar work and introspective lyrics.

Coolio “Gangsta Rap featuring Snoop”
-Polished gangsta from gangsta veterans. Gotta love Snoop.

Natalie Williams “Since you’ve Been Gone”
-Most downloaded when I was there. Soothing R and B from a woman with a A-List vocals. Also love the bluesy organ in this one.

Word on the Street
Multiple opinions are better than one. There are multiple places to learn more about We7. Mashable briefly discusses We7 and Techcrunch has some recent news concerning We7.

Marshall Kirkpatrick over on Read Write Web applies the “girlfriend test” to see how easy it was to use We7.

Most importantly, if you have used the service and have anything to report – like a good experience or great music – let us know in the comments below.

You don’t want to miss the next post or podcast. Subscribe to the Goat now for the all time low price of free. You can subscribe to Musicgoat.com by email and have this stuff in your inbox seconds after I post it or you can subscribe in your feed reader or on your home page. Either way you get the info fast and easy. Don’t understand this whole subscribing thing? Check out this short video on RSS. Isn’t technology great?

Related posts:

Are Downloads Killing The Music Business?

Free and Legal Music Downloading: The Fingertips Digest (September edition)

Free and Legal Music Downloading: The Fingertips Digest (August Edition)

Looking for Music to Fit Your Mood

Corey Koehler — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:44:48 +0000

A good friend of mine sent me a link to a very cool music website called Musicovery. Not only can you select music by genre but you can also select it by mood, hits and non-hits.

After playing with it a little while I can see that it is fairly accurate. That said, it still doesn’t replace a smooth voice and/or intuitive sense of a skilled DJ.

Anyway, I have always felt that mood is a great way to categorize music and this site is definitely a step in the right direction. Kudos to the person who came up with the idea.

WAIT! Are you going through a break-up or missing your Ex? Click Here
because this could help.

Related posts:
Bring the Live Music to You with a Concert in Your Home

Music Review: John Legend – Live at SOB’s

Music Marketing Strategies: Where You Can Send Your Music Demos