FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR 2006 NEW MUSIC WEEKLY AWARDS
AC Promotion Person/Company of the Year: Jerry Lembo (Lembo Entertainment)
Los Angeles, CA - New Music Weekly magazine has announced the nominees for the 2006 New Music Weekly Awards. Gnarls Barkley, KT Tunstall & Heartland are among top contenders in various categories for the main event to be held November 18th at the famous Avalon theater in Hollywood, California. American Idol Carmen Rasmusen will co-host along with NMW syndicated radio host Buck McCoy honoring recording artists, record labels, radio stations and their programmers in the genres of Top40, Country, Adult Contemporary, Hot AC & College.
Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group
742 Bergen Boulevard
Ridgefield, N.J. 07657-1435
Tel: 201-840-9980
Fax: 201-840-9921
Web: www.lemboentertainment.com
Friday, October 06, 2006
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Boom Chick
| Music video by Dreammakersmp3.com recording artists Coundd for their song "Boom Chick." The video was directed by Nick Briscoe of Belvedere Producitons and features Nicole Rayburn and Brian Matthews. The video was recorded in King of Prussia, PA and in New Egypt, NJ. Paul Van Haute was the cinematographer. | |
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
BMI Music World
I was thumbing through the Summer 2006 edition of BMI MusicWorld magazine and a few factoids jumped out of the articles on the artists/bands showcased.
Shinedown:
Pounded out over 200 concerts a year.
Spent a solid 23 months of touring behind debut album Leave a Whisper.
Ne-Yo (probably my favorite R&B artist right now):
Real name: Shaffer C. Smith
Ne-Yo's CD In My Own Words is platinum.
Carrie Underwood:
Prior to American Idol, Carrie "had...never been on national television."
Underwood's first CD Some Hearts is now triple platinum.
Daniel Powter:
"Bad Day" first became a hit in Europe, where it was the number one most played song of 2005 for this thirty-five year old Canadian songwriter and musician.
James Blunt:
Lest one start throwing about the term "overnight sensation," Blunt says, "Well, I'm twenty-eight now and I've been planning this since I was fourteen..."
Teddy Geiger:
Started writing songs at age eight. Geiger wrote or co-wrote eleven of the twelve songs on his major label debut CD Underage Thinking. Now seventeen, Geiger is a multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, piano, bass, and drums.
Take note how everyone's journey has a different origin. Change of name, geography, TV, touring, teens, twenties, thirties, etc. There is no "one size fits all" formula for success.
Thank you BMI for your informative publication and profiles.
Shinedown:
Pounded out over 200 concerts a year.
Spent a solid 23 months of touring behind debut album Leave a Whisper.
Ne-Yo (probably my favorite R&B artist right now):
Real name: Shaffer C. Smith
Ne-Yo's CD In My Own Words is platinum.
Carrie Underwood:
Prior to American Idol, Carrie "had...never been on national television."
Underwood's first CD Some Hearts is now triple platinum.
Daniel Powter:
"Bad Day" first became a hit in Europe, where it was the number one most played song of 2005 for this thirty-five year old Canadian songwriter and musician.
James Blunt:
Lest one start throwing about the term "overnight sensation," Blunt says, "Well, I'm twenty-eight now and I've been planning this since I was fourteen..."
Teddy Geiger:
Started writing songs at age eight. Geiger wrote or co-wrote eleven of the twelve songs on his major label debut CD Underage Thinking. Now seventeen, Geiger is a multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, piano, bass, and drums.
Take note how everyone's journey has a different origin. Change of name, geography, TV, touring, teens, twenties, thirties, etc. There is no "one size fits all" formula for success.
Thank you BMI for your informative publication and profiles.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Platinum Projections
Generating platinum sales these days (one million units) has become increasingly difficult but is still achievable. Generally it takes a combination of factors, including radio airplay, internet exposure, live performance, critical press, a great video, and inclusion in a film, tv show, or advertising campaign.
The following are a few current releases that I project will achieve Platinum status and, therefore, should be listened to for their content:
Justin Timberlake "FutureSex/Love Sounds"
Beyonce' "B'Day"
Hinder "Extreme Behavior"
Christina Aguilera "Back To Basics"
Fray "How To Save A Life"
Gnarls Barkley "St. Elsewhere"
Rihanna "Girl Like Me"
Nelly Furtado "Loose"
KT Tunstall "Eye To The Telescope"
Yung Joc "New Joc City"
Although it is more difficult to read the fine print on CD jackets, there are a wealth of credits worth noting: A&R, guest vocalists, legal, management, mastering, musicians, photography, producers, publishers, record label, songwriters, web sites, and more.
Don't copy the same formula as your competition, but use the knowledge you gain from studying them. Set out on your own unique path to Platinum.
The following are a few current releases that I project will achieve Platinum status and, therefore, should be listened to for their content:
Justin Timberlake "FutureSex/Love Sounds"
Beyonce' "B'Day"
Hinder "Extreme Behavior"
Christina Aguilera "Back To Basics"
Fray "How To Save A Life"
Gnarls Barkley "St. Elsewhere"
Rihanna "Girl Like Me"
Nelly Furtado "Loose"
KT Tunstall "Eye To The Telescope"
Yung Joc "New Joc City"
Although it is more difficult to read the fine print on CD jackets, there are a wealth of credits worth noting: A&R, guest vocalists, legal, management, mastering, musicians, photography, producers, publishers, record label, songwriters, web sites, and more.
Don't copy the same formula as your competition, but use the knowledge you gain from studying them. Set out on your own unique path to Platinum.
Friday, September 22, 2006
The Soul of a Superstar
On my return flight from the Radio and Records/National Association of Broadcasters convention in Dallas, I was reading the cover story in the Friday, September 22nd edition of USA Today titled Soul of a Champion. Over the next ten weeks, USA Today will examine the intangibles that separate champions from other elite athletes with essentially the same physical skills. The series will go inside the lives of competitors who exemplify four intangible traits sports psychologists say champions possess: competitiveness, self-confidence, focus, and composure under pressure.
This led me to think about the parallels between athletes and entertainers. One of the most challenging aspects of my consultancy is determining what "IT" is that separates superstars from "close but no cigar stars." If there was a simple answer, I would market it on one of those late night infomercials and be counting my coins on a beach in Maui.
Some of the common denominators suggested in the article were:
What's inside of you. How much are you willing to do? How much are you willing to sacrifice? (Are you willing to be on the road, away from family and friends for extended periods of time?)
Mental toughness. Can you keep your head on straight and stay sober?
(Can you avoid the excesses of drugs and alcohol?)
Courage to go for it and not think about failure.
(Are you a smart risk taker?)
Testing your skills against others.
(Do you thrive on Battles of the Bands and other competitions that challenge your musical and songwriting skills?)
Belief in your ability and total confidence.
(Can you envision yourself making an acceptance speech at the Grammys?)
Keeping your cool under pressure.
(Will you be able to refrain from swearing at the sound man when the system isn't performing to your standards? Will you stop short of asking the audience when they last had their hearing checked when their response is tepid?)
The ability to deal with mistakes.
(Will you live up to that age-old adage "the show must go on" even when you're off key, miss a note, or break a guitar string?)
Focus.
(Can you key in your audience, putting on a "big show" in a small venue and creating an intimate environment in an arena, making every fan feel like you are performing just for him/her?)
To achieve platinum status, it takes great talent and hard work. You must continuosly raise the bar; find ways to get better. Always work at improving your technical skills while maintaining a superior physical, psychological, and professional profile.
If you truly believe you possess The Soul of a Superstar, then you will not be denied.
This led me to think about the parallels between athletes and entertainers. One of the most challenging aspects of my consultancy is determining what "IT" is that separates superstars from "close but no cigar stars." If there was a simple answer, I would market it on one of those late night infomercials and be counting my coins on a beach in Maui.
Some of the common denominators suggested in the article were:
What's inside of you. How much are you willing to do? How much are you willing to sacrifice? (Are you willing to be on the road, away from family and friends for extended periods of time?)
Mental toughness. Can you keep your head on straight and stay sober?
(Can you avoid the excesses of drugs and alcohol?)
Courage to go for it and not think about failure.
(Are you a smart risk taker?)
Testing your skills against others.
(Do you thrive on Battles of the Bands and other competitions that challenge your musical and songwriting skills?)
Belief in your ability and total confidence.
(Can you envision yourself making an acceptance speech at the Grammys?)
Keeping your cool under pressure.
(Will you be able to refrain from swearing at the sound man when the system isn't performing to your standards? Will you stop short of asking the audience when they last had their hearing checked when their response is tepid?)
The ability to deal with mistakes.
(Will you live up to that age-old adage "the show must go on" even when you're off key, miss a note, or break a guitar string?)
Focus.
(Can you key in your audience, putting on a "big show" in a small venue and creating an intimate environment in an arena, making every fan feel like you are performing just for him/her?)
To achieve platinum status, it takes great talent and hard work. You must continuosly raise the bar; find ways to get better. Always work at improving your technical skills while maintaining a superior physical, psychological, and professional profile.
If you truly believe you possess The Soul of a Superstar, then you will not be denied.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
MUSEXPO 2006...EX-CEPTIONAL!
Sat Bisla, A&R Worldwide and one of the founders of MUSEXPO (April 30-May 3), said he hoped attendees of the conference would feel that they were part of something intimate, special, and inspirational. Kudos to Sat and his staff; you hit the bull’s-eye on all three objectives.
The panels were qualitative in representation and dialogue, covering most, if not all, current music industry key issues. The showcases were smartly consolidated into three clubs (Viper Room, Key Club, and the Roxy) and the Bel Age rooftop, allowing everyone maximum opportunity to see all the acts. Wine tastings, continental breakfasts, poolside luncheons, coffee and tea breaks, and cocktail receptions with food at the clubs created ample time for networking with all attendees.
Many of the executives on panels provided 'breaking news' regarding the latest developments at their companies. Napster Chairman/CEO Chris Gorog announced that consumers could now listen to every track in Napster's two million song catalog up to five times for FREE!
Ken Lombard, President, Starbucks Entertainment, discussed in detail the release of Words Come Back to Me, the first album by Sonya Kitchell, only the second artist featured in the company's innovative Hear Music Debut CD Series. Starbucks has also entered the motion picture marketing business, co-partnering with Lionsgate and 2929 Entertainment on the release of Akeelah and the Bee.
The Future of Music, a discussion projecting “what our business model would look like in 2011,” moderated by Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music, Electronic Arts, provided dialogue from a panel of experts that included Terry McBride, Founder, CEO, Nettwerk; and Donald Pressman, who recently released the fifth edition of All You Need to Know About the Music Business (Free Press).
As a panelist for Music's Supporting Role in Visual Media, Imogen Heap spoke of her successes, including "Can't Take It In," the lead track from the soundtrack of Disney's The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Billed as the United Nations of Music and Media, MUSEXPO attracted executives and artists from over 30 countries. Trade group representatives serving as panelists were: Anders Hjelmtorp (Sweden), Brendan Smyth (New Zealand), Jennifer Price (Canada), Kristian Riis (Denmark), Larry Bringsjord (Norway), Matt Glover (UK), Paulina Ahokas (Finland), and Tina Radburn (Australia).
Whether it was a discussion of global music publishing, digital development and distribution, artist discovery, pushing the boundaries of radio programming, or fighting for independence, industry leaders had something to contribute. David Mantel, President, Zomba Music Publishing; Ted Cohen, SVP, EMI Music; Peter Asher, President, Sanctuary Artist Management; Jay Frank, Head of Artist and Label Relations, Yahoo! Music; Jack Isquith, Executive Director Music Relations, AOL Music and AOL Radio; Derek Silvers, Founder of CD Baby and dozens of others gave 'take away' advice that attendees could integrate into their current business models.
I encourage you to visit A&R Worldwide regularly and to listen to many of the artists that showcased at MUSEXPO.
I look forward to scanning the globe at MUSEXPO 2007.
The panels were qualitative in representation and dialogue, covering most, if not all, current music industry key issues. The showcases were smartly consolidated into three clubs (Viper Room, Key Club, and the Roxy) and the Bel Age rooftop, allowing everyone maximum opportunity to see all the acts. Wine tastings, continental breakfasts, poolside luncheons, coffee and tea breaks, and cocktail receptions with food at the clubs created ample time for networking with all attendees.
Many of the executives on panels provided 'breaking news' regarding the latest developments at their companies. Napster Chairman/CEO Chris Gorog announced that consumers could now listen to every track in Napster's two million song catalog up to five times for FREE!
Ken Lombard, President, Starbucks Entertainment, discussed in detail the release of Words Come Back to Me, the first album by Sonya Kitchell, only the second artist featured in the company's innovative Hear Music Debut CD Series. Starbucks has also entered the motion picture marketing business, co-partnering with Lionsgate and 2929 Entertainment on the release of Akeelah and the Bee.
The Future of Music, a discussion projecting “what our business model would look like in 2011,” moderated by Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music, Electronic Arts, provided dialogue from a panel of experts that included Terry McBride, Founder, CEO, Nettwerk; and Donald Pressman, who recently released the fifth edition of All You Need to Know About the Music Business (Free Press).
As a panelist for Music's Supporting Role in Visual Media, Imogen Heap spoke of her successes, including "Can't Take It In," the lead track from the soundtrack of Disney's The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Billed as the United Nations of Music and Media, MUSEXPO attracted executives and artists from over 30 countries. Trade group representatives serving as panelists were: Anders Hjelmtorp (Sweden), Brendan Smyth (New Zealand), Jennifer Price (Canada), Kristian Riis (Denmark), Larry Bringsjord (Norway), Matt Glover (UK), Paulina Ahokas (Finland), and Tina Radburn (Australia).
Whether it was a discussion of global music publishing, digital development and distribution, artist discovery, pushing the boundaries of radio programming, or fighting for independence, industry leaders had something to contribute. David Mantel, President, Zomba Music Publishing; Ted Cohen, SVP, EMI Music; Peter Asher, President, Sanctuary Artist Management; Jay Frank, Head of Artist and Label Relations, Yahoo! Music; Jack Isquith, Executive Director Music Relations, AOL Music and AOL Radio; Derek Silvers, Founder of CD Baby and dozens of others gave 'take away' advice that attendees could integrate into their current business models.
I encourage you to visit A&R Worldwide regularly and to listen to many of the artists that showcased at MUSEXPO.
I look forward to scanning the globe at MUSEXPO 2007.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Platinum Plans...Lots of Bands
I am always looking for opportunities to surround myself with music, creative people and continued learning experiences, especially at this time when the music and entertainment industry is in a period of radical transformation.
Recently, I attended the Billboard Music and Money Symposium, the National NACA Convention, and SXSW. In April, I will be at ASCAPEXPO (April 20-22 in Los Angeles) and MUSEXPO (April 30, May 1-3 in Los Angeles).
Looking ahead, other conferences (schedule permitting) where you will see me:
Recently, I attended the Billboard Music and Money Symposium, the National NACA Convention, and SXSW. In April, I will be at ASCAPEXPO (April 20-22 in Los Angeles) and MUSEXPO (April 30, May 1-3 in Los Angeles).
Looking ahead, other conferences (schedule permitting) where you will see me:
6/22-25 Millennium Music Conference
7/13-16 The Conclave
8/30-9/4 Independent Music Conference
9/20-22 Radio & Records Convention
9/28-30 NEMO Music Festival
9/28-10/1 Dewey Beach Music Festival and Conference
10/4-7 Atlantis Music Conference and Festival
10/31-11/4 CMJ Music Marathon
11/14-15 Hollywood Reporter, Billboard Film and TV Music Conference
If you plan on attending any of the above, please let me know; I'd welcome the opportunity to meet you. If you are not attending and I can represent you, please email me a list of your goals and objectives. Should I be able to help you achieve them, I will submit a proposal for your consideration.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
April 4, 1964
On that day in music history the Top 5 songs on the Billboard singles chart were occupied by the same group -- the Beatles! To the best of my knowledge, the Top 5 slots on the Billboard chart being held by the same group has never happened since, nor is it likely to happen again.
What was striking about those songs was the simplicity of the lyrical content and how the melody had you hooked after just one listen:
#1 "Can't Buy Me Love"
#2 "Twist and Shout"
#3 "She Loves You"
#4 "I Want to Hold Your Hand"
#5 "Please Please Me"
Fast forward to April 4, 2006 and, for me, the only song on the current chart that has a similar vibe is Daniel Powter's "Bad Day."
In my consulting sessions I often encounter talented singer/songwriters who try to cram their entire music education into one song. Sometimes less is more and a simple statement repeated over a strong melody is all the hook you need, especially when today's attention spans are so short. In radio, callout hooks are only between 10 and 15 seconds.
Some of the songs that followed "Can't Buy Me Love" to number one in 1964:
What was striking about those songs was the simplicity of the lyrical content and how the melody had you hooked after just one listen:
#1 "Can't Buy Me Love"
#2 "Twist and Shout"
#3 "She Loves You"
#4 "I Want to Hold Your Hand"
#5 "Please Please Me"
Fast forward to April 4, 2006 and, for me, the only song on the current chart that has a similar vibe is Daniel Powter's "Bad Day."
In my consulting sessions I often encounter talented singer/songwriters who try to cram their entire music education into one song. Sometimes less is more and a simple statement repeated over a strong melody is all the hook you need, especially when today's attention spans are so short. In radio, callout hooks are only between 10 and 15 seconds.
Some of the songs that followed "Can't Buy Me Love" to number one in 1964:
- "Hello Dolly!"
- "My Guy"
- "Love Me Do"
- "Chapel of Love"
- "I Get Around"
- "Rag Doll"
- "A Hard Day's Night"
- "Everybody Loves Somebody"
- "Where Did Our Love Go"
- "The House of the Rising Sun"
- "Oh, Pretty Woman"
- "Do Wah Diddy Diddy"
- "Baby Love"
- "Leader of the Pack"
- "Ringo"
- "Mr. Lonely"
- "Come See About Me"
- "I Feel Fine"
I truly enjoy discussing song titles and hooks during my consulting calls. Sign up for a 30 or 60 minute session and let's work on coming up with your number 1 hit!
Monday, April 03, 2006
Monday Morning Memo 4/3/06
I have been exchanging emails with several clients today and the following is a random "To Do" list of ideas discussed:
- Create a discount coupon (10% - 20% off) the total purchase of your CD, DVD, or band merch.
- Offer a free downloadable single.
- Produce a single with 2 alternate mixes.
- Record a five song EP.
- Record a live performance and stream it on your website.
- Donate a reasonable quantity of your CD to a charity.
- Perform at a benefit concert.
- Schedule an acoustic in store performance.
- Start booking spring and summer festivals.
- Put together plans to release a Christmas song or full holiday CD.
- Create a new item of merchandise (other than a T-shirt).
- Manufacture "Little Black Books" for giveaways at your shows. On page 1, have your contact info and web address.
- Go retro -- release a collectable 7 inch vinyl picture disc.
Hopefully, these ideas will create a little stimuli for you. The alternative to jump starting your brain -- drink an extra large Starbucks House Blend coffee and book a 30 or 60 minute consultation call with me.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Billboard Music & Money Symposium
Radical changes in the music industry landscape continue to transform the way we acquire and listen to music. At Billboard's Music & Money Symposium, held in the 20th floor Penthouse Ballroom of the St. Regis in New York City on March 2, 2006, cautiously optimistic leaders involved in the digital music revolution provided informative and spirited debates on acquisition, financing, licensing, distribution, business models, and opportunities in new technologies.
Tamara Conniff, Billboard's first female and youngest ever Executive Editor at age 33, opened the conference with an overview of the magazine, highlighting its redesign along with its online and digital strategies.
In session one, "Digital Days: View from the Top," witty moderator Bill Werde, Senior News Editor, Billboard, identified interoperability (the ability of software and hardware on different machines from different vendors to share data), as an issue plaguing the current music distribution model. Jim Griffin, Managing Editor, Cherry Lane Music, redefined music as "a service, not a product." Thomas Ryan, SVP Digital & Mobile Strategy & Development, EMI Music, highlighted his company's new partnerships with Robbie Williams and Korn. The Robbie Williams deal is a multi-platform approach, whereby EMI takes a share of touring, publishing profits, and merchandise in addition to cd sales. The Korn partnership involves three entities: the band, EMI, and Live Nation (the recently spun-off concert division of Clear Channel Communications). Each party gets a piece of the band's recording, publishing, touring, merchandising, sponsorship, and other activities. Brian Taptich, SVP Business Development, BitTorrent (free open-source file-sharing application effective for distributing very large software and media files), indicated the industry is undergoing a crisis of democratization of content. Shawn Gold, SVP of Marketing and Content, MySpace.com, emphasized how his company's virtual community has empowered both artist and audience. Greg Scholl, CEO, The Orchard, revealed that indie music accounts for 30% of his market. Jack Isquith, Executive Director of Music Industry Relations, AOL Music, stressed the importance of being a good partner to the music industry.
In the next session, "It's a Wireless World After All: How to Make Money in the Mobile Space," Antony Bruno, Digital Mobile Editor, Billboard, led his panel in discussing how investment opportunities are matched in number only by the degree of risk. Mark Desantels, VP Wireless Internet Development, CTIA, discussed his DC based international association dedicated to expanding the wireless frontier and his belief that the anytime, anywhere availability offered by wireless broadband has the potential to change the economic structure of our society. Ted Casey, Head of Mobile Music, Verizon Wireless, updated the audience on VCast (the ability to download music, videos, and more straight to your phone). The service already boasts a catalog of 500,000 songs. Shadid Khan, Partner, Interactive Broadband Consulting Group, serves leading broadband related product and service providers in the cable, mobile, and media industries. Khan, an acclaimed thought leader who has served Bertelsmann, Sony BMG, Warner Music Group, and the RIAA, said, "This is perhaps the most exciting time in the converging media and telecommunications industry." Greg Clayman, VP, Wireless Strategy & Operations, MTV Networks, announced that hit music, comedy, and entertainment programming form the nation's premier music brands (CMT, MTV, VH1) and Comedy Central is now available on demand on the Sprint TV lineup.
The keynote address was presented by Robert F.X. Sillerman, Chairman and CEO of CKX, Inc, which engages in the ownership, development, and commercial utilization of entertainment content. It owns 100% interest in 19 Entertainment Limited (American Idol and local adaptations of the Idols television show airing in approximately 30 countries). CKX. Inc. also has an 85% controlling interest in Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. and Elvis Presley Enterprises, LLC. Sillerman discussed how to best position music in the changing distribution opportunities. He suggested we define the term 'music business' as selling music, not recordings. Sillerman asserted that content is king and must be compelling; the emphasis should be on talent.
Susan Butler, Legal and Music Publishing Editor, Billboard, and her panel of experts explored ways of "Financing and Acquiring Music Publishing Catalogs." Mark Levinsohn, Jerome Levy, Joel Katz, and Nicholas Firth raised concerns on how intellectual property would be protected, multiples on net publishers' shares, new sources of income, and the recent increase of mechanical royalties to 9.1 cents.
John Frankenheimer, Co-Chairman, Loeb and Loeb, LLP moderated the discussion on 'What Venture Capitalists Are Looking For." Firms like Abry Partners, one of the most experienced and successful media-focused private equity investment firms in North America believe that content will increase in value and that thought leaders with teams of vision can create enduring business models.
Billboard Executive Editor Tamara Conniff returned to center stage for an exclusive Q&A with Doug Morris, Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Group. Doug spoke of the Universal Culture, consisting of people who respect each other and leadership steeped in the music business. His company continues to lead the music industry in global sales with a U.S. market share estimated at 34%.
The final session, chaired by Brian Garrity, Business Editor, Billboard, focused on the future: "Valuations, Deal Making, and Predictions For 2006." Harold Vogel (Vogel Capital Management) sees legal downloading gaining traction, becoming less expensive and easier to use. John Rudolph (Music Analytics, Inc.) continues to see music treated as a commodity. Hilary Rosen (Berman Rosen Global Strategies) predicted more advertising direct to consumers and increases in adult buyers. Rich Greenfield (Pali Research) noted significant increases in digital strength. Duncan Reid (Ingenious) shared a positive and enthusiastic approach to the media sector. He cited the success of MySpace.com and its influence on creating awareness of Arctic Monkeys.
In summation, the general climate is one of optimism, growth, and higher returns. Congratulations to the staff at Billboard for providing a classy, intellectual forum and networking environment that was personally enriching. Learn more about the many ways the Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group can help you achieve your artistic and financial goal to become a full-time musician.
Tamara Conniff, Billboard's first female and youngest ever Executive Editor at age 33, opened the conference with an overview of the magazine, highlighting its redesign along with its online and digital strategies.
In session one, "Digital Days: View from the Top," witty moderator Bill Werde, Senior News Editor, Billboard, identified interoperability (the ability of software and hardware on different machines from different vendors to share data), as an issue plaguing the current music distribution model. Jim Griffin, Managing Editor, Cherry Lane Music, redefined music as "a service, not a product." Thomas Ryan, SVP Digital & Mobile Strategy & Development, EMI Music, highlighted his company's new partnerships with Robbie Williams and Korn. The Robbie Williams deal is a multi-platform approach, whereby EMI takes a share of touring, publishing profits, and merchandise in addition to cd sales. The Korn partnership involves three entities: the band, EMI, and Live Nation (the recently spun-off concert division of Clear Channel Communications). Each party gets a piece of the band's recording, publishing, touring, merchandising, sponsorship, and other activities. Brian Taptich, SVP Business Development, BitTorrent (free open-source file-sharing application effective for distributing very large software and media files), indicated the industry is undergoing a crisis of democratization of content. Shawn Gold, SVP of Marketing and Content, MySpace.com, emphasized how his company's virtual community has empowered both artist and audience. Greg Scholl, CEO, The Orchard, revealed that indie music accounts for 30% of his market. Jack Isquith, Executive Director of Music Industry Relations, AOL Music, stressed the importance of being a good partner to the music industry.
In the next session, "It's a Wireless World After All: How to Make Money in the Mobile Space," Antony Bruno, Digital Mobile Editor, Billboard, led his panel in discussing how investment opportunities are matched in number only by the degree of risk. Mark Desantels, VP Wireless Internet Development, CTIA, discussed his DC based international association dedicated to expanding the wireless frontier and his belief that the anytime, anywhere availability offered by wireless broadband has the potential to change the economic structure of our society. Ted Casey, Head of Mobile Music, Verizon Wireless, updated the audience on VCast (the ability to download music, videos, and more straight to your phone). The service already boasts a catalog of 500,000 songs. Shadid Khan, Partner, Interactive Broadband Consulting Group, serves leading broadband related product and service providers in the cable, mobile, and media industries. Khan, an acclaimed thought leader who has served Bertelsmann, Sony BMG, Warner Music Group, and the RIAA, said, "This is perhaps the most exciting time in the converging media and telecommunications industry." Greg Clayman, VP, Wireless Strategy & Operations, MTV Networks, announced that hit music, comedy, and entertainment programming form the nation's premier music brands (CMT, MTV, VH1) and Comedy Central is now available on demand on the Sprint TV lineup.
The keynote address was presented by Robert F.X. Sillerman, Chairman and CEO of CKX, Inc, which engages in the ownership, development, and commercial utilization of entertainment content. It owns 100% interest in 19 Entertainment Limited (American Idol and local adaptations of the Idols television show airing in approximately 30 countries). CKX. Inc. also has an 85% controlling interest in Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. and Elvis Presley Enterprises, LLC. Sillerman discussed how to best position music in the changing distribution opportunities. He suggested we define the term 'music business' as selling music, not recordings. Sillerman asserted that content is king and must be compelling; the emphasis should be on talent.
Susan Butler, Legal and Music Publishing Editor, Billboard, and her panel of experts explored ways of "Financing and Acquiring Music Publishing Catalogs." Mark Levinsohn, Jerome Levy, Joel Katz, and Nicholas Firth raised concerns on how intellectual property would be protected, multiples on net publishers' shares, new sources of income, and the recent increase of mechanical royalties to 9.1 cents.
John Frankenheimer, Co-Chairman, Loeb and Loeb, LLP moderated the discussion on 'What Venture Capitalists Are Looking For." Firms like Abry Partners, one of the most experienced and successful media-focused private equity investment firms in North America believe that content will increase in value and that thought leaders with teams of vision can create enduring business models.
Billboard Executive Editor Tamara Conniff returned to center stage for an exclusive Q&A with Doug Morris, Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Group. Doug spoke of the Universal Culture, consisting of people who respect each other and leadership steeped in the music business. His company continues to lead the music industry in global sales with a U.S. market share estimated at 34%.
The final session, chaired by Brian Garrity, Business Editor, Billboard, focused on the future: "Valuations, Deal Making, and Predictions For 2006." Harold Vogel (Vogel Capital Management) sees legal downloading gaining traction, becoming less expensive and easier to use. John Rudolph (Music Analytics, Inc.) continues to see music treated as a commodity. Hilary Rosen (Berman Rosen Global Strategies) predicted more advertising direct to consumers and increases in adult buyers. Rich Greenfield (Pali Research) noted significant increases in digital strength. Duncan Reid (Ingenious) shared a positive and enthusiastic approach to the media sector. He cited the success of MySpace.com and its influence on creating awareness of Arctic Monkeys.
In summation, the general climate is one of optimism, growth, and higher returns. Congratulations to the staff at Billboard for providing a classy, intellectual forum and networking environment that was personally enriching. Learn more about the many ways the Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group can help you achieve your artistic and financial goal to become a full-time musician.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
In Pursuit of Your Music Biz Degree
Looking to learn how to gain exposure and an enthusiastic audience for your music? Go back to school and see what's happening on college campuses.
mtvU and Billboard magazine are looking for a few good college students to speak their mind on the state of music today. If I were an aspiring singer-songwriter attending college, I would consider using this as a vehicle to gain some invaluable exposure.
The NACA National Convention is rapidly approaching (Feburary 18-22 in Boston). Featuring more than 80 showcasing artists, performers and programs, as well as over 100 educational sessions, NACA is considered the largest campus activities marketplace in the country.
On the touring tip, the 3rd Virgin College Mega Tour is in the planning stages and scheduled to make 18-20 stops in April and May. A new feature this year will have Virgin enlisting local performers to play on the Emerging Artist stage.
Sonicbids is accepting EPKs through 3/31/06 for the second annual CMJ Rock Hall Fest, taking place June 14-18, 2006 in Cleveland, OH. As many as 100 artists are expected to perform for tens of thousands of music fans.
Do your fans give you high marks? The Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group wants to help you graduate to the next level in your musical career.
mtvU and Billboard magazine are looking for a few good college students to speak their mind on the state of music today. If I were an aspiring singer-songwriter attending college, I would consider using this as a vehicle to gain some invaluable exposure.
The NACA National Convention is rapidly approaching (Feburary 18-22 in Boston). Featuring more than 80 showcasing artists, performers and programs, as well as over 100 educational sessions, NACA is considered the largest campus activities marketplace in the country.
On the touring tip, the 3rd Virgin College Mega Tour is in the planning stages and scheduled to make 18-20 stops in April and May. A new feature this year will have Virgin enlisting local performers to play on the Emerging Artist stage.
Sonicbids is accepting EPKs through 3/31/06 for the second annual CMJ Rock Hall Fest, taking place June 14-18, 2006 in Cleveland, OH. As many as 100 artists are expected to perform for tens of thousands of music fans.
Do your fans give you high marks? The Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group wants to help you graduate to the next level in your musical career.
Millions of Reasons to be Cheerful
If you are a developing artist looking for a silver lining or the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, here it is: consumer interest in music continues to accelerate.
"Even given the declines the industry has seen, the real takeaway from 2005 is that consumers made more than 1 billion music purchasing decisions," states Rob Sisco, Nielsen Music President/Nielsen Entertainment East Coast Operations COO.
In more promising news, Billboard's Brian Garrity reports that, in the final week of 2005, millions of consumers set a record by downloading 20 million music tracks from iTunes and other retailers. Steve Jobs says Apple sold 14 million iPods in the holiday quarter and 32 million for all of 2005.
Interest in music is sure to increase as we come up on the Grammy Awards on February 8th. Consumers are bound to check out Best New Artist nominees Ciara (Goodies/Sho' Nuff-La Face, 2.5 million sold), Fall Out Boy (From Under the Cork Tree/Island, 1.7 million sold), Keane (Hopes and Fears/Polydor-Interscope, sales n/a), John Legend (Get Lifted/Columbia, 1.5 million sold), and Sugarland (Twice the Speed of Life/Mercury, 1.6 million sold).
Are you a future Best New Artist? Let the Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group help you achieve your goal of a rewarding career in music.
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