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:

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.

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:

• "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 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.