SAFE SELL

If you're looking to sell your music on your own website this site could be worth taking a look at. SafeSell offers free software to protect your songs (DRM). No need to have your own e-commerce account, no set up costs and sell downloads through your own website. You can also set your own prices in any currency.

[Resource http://www.myspace.com/safesell]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, sell+your+own+music+downloads, digital+music+downloads

I LIKE MUSIC....BECAUSE IT'S GONNA MAKE ME RICH ONE DAY

Here's an interview I came accross with a young UK Hip Hop artist called SWAY.

SWAY has managed to self record, produce and release 3 CD releases, get himself a nomination the UK's prestigious Mercury Prize and beat 50 Cent to a MOBO - and all while unsigned.

I know I don't need to continue to 'convert' you to believe in the DIY independent way. More and more artists are establishing an independent comfortable career doing what they love to do and all without the money and support from major record companies.

I like to feature these stories as both inspirational and as an opportunity to pick up tips on what strategies these artists adopted to succeed.

Read the interview here


[Resource http://www.ilikemusic.com/interviews/SWAY_interview_2006-2983]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

EUROPEAN DIGITAL MUSIC SALES

Here's an informative article on some digital download stats and a prediction of future trends. Click here for the answers to the following questions, which of course may also be handy to know for your music marketing strategies.

What countries are leading the digital downloads ?
What is the profile of the typical person who downloads digital music ?
What music is mostly being downloaded ?
What countries are NOT buying digital downloads ?
Who's pocketing most of the money from digital downloads ?
Who are the new big music publishers ?


[Resource http://euobserver.com/871/22429]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, music+publishing, digital+music, music+download, music+marketing

NEW ONLINE MAGAZINE ROCKS SYDNEY

A new digital magazine called Sydney Rocks is soon to be launched as a resource centre for music biz info. They also plan to be presenting some unsigned showcase gigs and band comps. Check out their myspace site here.

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, music+magazine, sydney+music, myspace+music+resource, musician

EARN A LIVING WITH YOUR MUSIC CAREER GAURANTEED!

You DON'T need a record deal to make millions!

You can learn everything you need to know about marketing for independent artists, singer songwriters, DJ's, singers and Hip Hop artists here.

Learn how to start building a huge fan base, drive a massive amount of traffic to your website and have your fans eager to purchase your CD's.

[Resource http://www.musicbizcoach.com/?hop=milando]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, sell+your+own+cds

WANT MORE GIGS, MORE, FANS & MORE CD SALES?

Here is a pod cast for musicians by musicians with advice on how you can get more Gigs, more, fans and more CD sales.

Click here to get the pod cast.

[Resource http://www.musicianscooler.com/]

technorati tags:musician+podcast, indie+musician, independent+musician, sell+you+cd

PROMOTE YOUR CONCERT

Have you ever wondered how a top concert promoter would book your show ?

Have you ever watched as a buzz spread for a gig with a band you have never heard of and wondered what their promoter knew about organising a successful show, that you don't ?

Some of Australia's best known venues are available for hire to people just like you. Ever considered putting together a line-up of bands. What about under age nights, genre specific shows, holiday 'theme' shows ?

Well, now you can share in the SECRETS TO PROMOTING A SUCCESSFUL SHOW.

In this step-by-step book you will learn how to create a budget, secure a performance contract, make a sponsorship proposal, advertise, learn about public relations and much more.

Click here to learn how you can book your show as a top concert promoter.

[Resource http://www.concertpromotions.net/?hop=milando]

technorati tags:indie+musician, independent+musician, Concert+promoter, Successful+gigs

DIY WEBSITES

If you are a musician without a website, I'd strongly advise you to get one ASAP.

You can get yourself a website without parting with a lot of cash and you can even produce a DIY website.

You'll need 3 things:

A Domain Name

A Web Hosting Company

A Web Design

Here is a DIY website model if you don't have the $$ to pay a web designer

Click here for your FREE DIY website design guide.

[Resource http://www.ezau.com/latest/articles/0252.shtml]

technorati tags:diy+websites, free+website+resource, indie+musician, independent, musician

AUSTRALIAN MUSIC RESOURCES

Here's a website with some top 10 style resources. There's a bit of a mix but it's Australian websites and worth a glance.

There are links to sites for guitar TABS, gig guide listings, promoting your band and specialist genre links for Punk, Jazz, Rave & Club, Blues, Indie Pop/Rock/Alternative, musicians and even one for Air guitarists!

The website is called Chart Central.

[Resource http://www.chartcentral.com/Top/Music_and_Artists/Music_Resources/Australian_Music_Resources/]

technorati tags:music+resource, indie, independent, musician

FREE MARKETING PODCAST

Here is a FREE resource I found which offers tips for small business owners.

If you're thinking that you don't have a small business you may need to take a closer look. Are you an independent musician ? Do you have a website and products to sell ?

The speakers include a copy writing expert, a small business marketing expert, public relations Pro and a successful musician and motivational speaker.

The 4 pod cast interviews each go for around 20minutes. Although they started on Friday 8th September, you can still access the first one here and the second one here.

September 8, 2006

Copy writing: Write Your Own Ticket

September 15, 2006

Marketing Street Warriors

Don't miss the 3rd one on Friday September 22nd which features Mark Romero of Mark Romero Music.

All pod cast interviews are posted every Friday to http://www.10stepmarketingconnection.com/ as well as being featured on iTunes.

[Resource http://www.prweb.com/releases/2006/8/prweb430163.htm]

technorati tags:music+marketing, indie+musician

TURN YOUR MUSIC CAREER AROUND

Don't forget to sign up for the 60 minute live teleseminar this Wednesday 20th September.

Learn the secrets on how you can get many gigs week in week out.

Click here to learn more.

[Resource http://www.innerrhythm.org/zonebooking/]

technorati tags:indie+musician, independent, musician, get+more+gigs, successful+music+career

GET MOGGING!

Another social networking site has officially been launched. It's called "MOG" (music blog).

It allows the user to upload standard social networking features, profile pages and MP3 files.

To check it out, click here.

[Resource http://www.marketingvox.com/archives/2006/06/20/music_social_network_mog_launched/index.php]

technorati tags:indie+musician, independent+musician, social+networking

YOUR MUSIC TO MILLIONS

Mozaika are an Australian music duo from Katoomba, NSW. They are a good example of how Internet music marketing can help the indie musician reach many people all over the globe, all from the comfort of you own home.

[Resource http://australianit.news.com.au/articles/0,7204,20378840%5E15388%5E%5Enbv%5E,00.html]

technorati tags:indie+musician, independent+musician, music+marketing, internet+music+marketing

SHARE YOUR MUSIC TASTE

By combining social networking with a high-tech music recommendation system, the Spanish startup may have a hit. Next move: mobile phones. ...

Using a simple concept, MyStrands is a website that installs software on the PC of it's members. This software then keeps track of what music the member buys and listens to and then introduces new music to the member based on patterns of other listeners to similar music.

Indie musicians also check out MyStrandsIndie

[Resource http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/sep2006/tc20060911_735858.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_technology]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, marketing+music

FREE RESOURCE FOR BRISBANE MUSICIANS

Brisbane muso's can pick up a free map to more than 30 Brisbane live music venues. The map contains addresses and short descriptions of the types of music you can find at the venue.

The maps will be handed out by Brisbane City Council this Sunday 17th September between 11am and 2pm in the Brunswick Street Mall.

[Resource http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,20404640-5003421,00.html]

If you're looking for a complete indie musician gig booking guide for Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, take a look at 100 Aussie Gigs where you'll find everything you'll need to organise a gig or tour in the three major east coast cities.

Includes: Venue name, address phone number & website, Style of music suited to each venue, Venue booking procedure and booking contact details, Location guide for each venue, Accommodation, Transport, DIY Distribution, Radio, Press, Promotion and marketing tips, Online resource guide, Printable tour checklist, Printable booking sheet, 10 Step Guide to booking your gig and much more.

Click here to read more.

[Resource http://100aussiegigs.rjfmedia.com/]

technorati tags:indie, indpendent, musician, free+musician+resource, gigs+brisbane+sydney+melbourne, venues+brisbane+sydney+melbourne

CALLING WA BANDS AND ARTISTS

Are you a WA band or artist ?

If so, you are invited to submit an application to WAM (West Australian Music Industry) for the 2007 WAMi Festival showcases and the Kiss My WAMi promotional CD and DVD.

WHO: Bands and musicians, all styles

WHEN: By Tuesday October 3rd, 2006

WHERE: Apply online at wam.asn.au or phone for application (08) 9227 7962 (regional WA 1800 007 962)

[Resource http://www.xpressmag.com.au/archives/2006/09/wami_cd_call_ou.php]

technorati tags:indie, idependent, musician, WA+new+music

PANDORA'S BOX - EXPOSING NEW MUSIC

For most people, hearing a song on the radio is the main way they are introduced to new music.

However, a new website called Pandora.com which was launched eight months ago has an innovative way to expose people to new music they would be unlikely to come across in there day to day music listening habits.

With over 3 million registered users, Pandora.com provides free streaming audio of similar sounding artists that the user selects as liking.

Read the article here.

[Resource http://www.roanoke.com/news/nrv/wb/wb/xp-81480]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, new+music+exposure,

AXE BOOM

If you're looking or a guitarist for your band's line up you could be in luck. According to this SydneyMorningHerald article, Australian guitar sales are booming.

Maybe those looking at taking up an instrument should consider an instrument other than the guitar, in order to be 'in demand'.

The guitar player image of that of a young male may not necessarily be so predominant as baby boomers and women take up the guitar in larger numbers.

This trend is reported to have been helped along by a worldwide popular culture trend away from dance music towards guitar bands.

Yes, it seems rock and roll will live on and there will be plenty of axe action to come.

Read the article here.

[Resource http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/guitar-boom-strikes-a-chord-as-all-types-get-in-on-the-axe/2006/09/09/1157222379590.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, guitar

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS - MAKE A JET VIDEO

Jet are asking fans to create their own video which will be played on YouTube on the 2nd October, 2006.

The song is called 'Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is' and you can download it for free from Jet's website www.jetmusic.co.uk.

To read how it works click here.

[Resource http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/article/jet%20ask%20fans%20to%20make%20music%20videos_1007041]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, jet+music+video

TOUR MANAGER SECRETS REVEALED

Here is a review I came accross, of an ebook all about becoming an artist tour manager.

The book is called TourDoggSecrets and it gives step-by-step instructions on how to become an artist tour manager.

For a touring musician, a tour manager can be a vital member of the band's entourage. If you don't have the luxury of hiring someone to be a tour manager you can DIY by learning some valuable tricks on managing a successful tour.

[Resource http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/54998/tour_manager_larry_stevensons_tour.html]

technorati tags:indie, artist+tour+manager, independent, musician

RED HOT QUALITIES FOR SUCCESS

Formed in 1983 and still rated as one of the world's most sucessful bands, are the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

They must know something about what it takes to become such a successful band and in this revealing interview I came accross in the N.J - ParamusPost, Flea (bass player for RHCP) reveals the 3 qualities that make the difference between an average band and a top rate group, as well as why they are so important. Flea also talks about his own music style influences and early days of the RHCP.

Read the full article here.

[Resource http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/2006090121350185]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician, red+hot+chili+peppers

GIGS 4 ALL

Increase your band's exposure. Gigs4All is a US 'musician connection website'.

[Resource http://www.gigs4all.com/bands-get-gigs.php]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

SCHOOL OF ROCK

A new 3 year bachelor degree in Australian Popular Music will be introduced in 2007 at Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE.

For more information, email lisamitch@ozemail.com.au

[Resource http://www.theage.com.au/news/education-news/campus-chatter/2006/08/18/1155408009863.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

ANOTHER WEBSITE TO PUT YOUR PROFILE UP AT

Looking for a website to upload your band's profile and songs?

Here's a new Australian site called OzSoundCheck and here's what they say:

...It is a stage for great artists to showcase themselves, be heard and hear what people think.

... allows artists to register, create a profile, upload their mp3 songs,list their gigs and upload their photos.

To sign your band up click here

[Resource http://www.ozsoundcheck.com.au/artist-register.aspx]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

IT'S ALL IN A NAME

Seems you can sell almost any music style as long you 'market' it properly. I came accross this interesting article about how classical music sells very little under the genre 'classical'. However, smart musicians and music companies are inventing new ways to sell it.

Read here, about this clever little marketing trick.

[Resource http://news.moneycontrol.com/india/news/entertainment/musictodaysgurmeetsingh/howtomakeclassicalmusiccoolfunky/18/23/article/236913]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

LOOKING FOR UNSIGNED MELBOURNE BANDS

Found this opportunity on Christie Eliezer's Business News section on TheMusic.com -

A competition for unsigned bands with prizes to be won and proceeds generously given to two worthwhile charites.

Not mention getting to perform in one of Melbourne's great live music venue.

Entries close October 2nd, click here to find out all the info.

You'll find it under the heading:

ATTENTION UNSIGNED ACTS

[Resource http://www.themusic.com.au/im_m/eliezer.php]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

FREE MUSIC DOWNLOADS

FREE music downloads starting December, 2006

Just in time for the Christmas season:

When the world's largest music company 'agrees' to FREE music downloads - one wonders's where the revenue is going to come from?

The 'majors' are experimenting with different ways of distributing digital music, in an effort to profit in an the area of selling downloadable music, which is still dominated by illegal file-sharing networks.

Read the article here to find out.

And on the same topic, here's an article from London's TheDailMail.

Again about Universal Music's joint venture with SpiralFrog, an online music store which will rely on advertising for its revenue.

Read the full article here

[Resource http://www.ft.com/cms/s/b194883e-36b2-11db-89d6-0000779e2340.html]

[Resource http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=402679&in_page_id=1770]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

ONLINE MUSIC SALES BOOM

Where there's 'bad' news there's good news! Many stories I'm coming across lately all tell a similar story:

Traditional retail sales of recorded music is down and online music sales is booming.

Now the history of 'selling' music only goes back a few decades and the one constant is the continuing evolution of the means of 'storing' music and the means of selling of music.

We've gone from selling sheet music (before Thomas Edison's invention) then to primitive recording mediums (at least by today's standards) to sophisticated recordings available in both a 'hard' version or digital version.

Now we could analyse statistics all day :-) however, apart from knowing and accepting that change is inevitble. Evolution happens! It's just life. As independent musicians we have worldwide market available to us, music has never in history been so easy to be a DIY musician. Write, produce, record and sell your own music creations.

This truly is amazing when you stop to think about it.

If you want to read one of the many articles on the state of retails Vs online music sales click here.

[Resource http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/articlenews.aspx?type=internetNews&storyID=2006-08-24T103321Z_01_L24306742_RTRIDST_0_OUKIN-UK-LEISURE-MUSIC-ONLINE.XML]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

TOM WAITS TO JUDGE YOUR MUSIC

INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITING COMPETITION

Brian Wilson, Tom Waits, Robert Smith, Isaac Brock (Modest Mouse), and more are all judging the contest.

The competition welcomes original songs from musicians (amateur through professional) everywhere, judging them in one of 18 categories: Rock, Pop/Top 40, AAA (AdultAlbumAlternative), Americana, Jazz, Folk/Singer-Songwriter, Latin,R&B/Hip-Hop,Country, World Music, Gospel/Christian, Instrumental, Dance/Electronica, Blues, Children's Music, Lyrics Only, Teen, and Performance. Entrants can submit as many tracks as they care to in one or more genres.

[Resource http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/page/news/2006/8/23/Brian_Wilson_Tom_Waits_Judge_Your_Music]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

THE ROOT CAUSE OF MUSIC SUCCESS

REVEALED: The Root Cause for Music Success - And How To Rapidly Achieve It Is To Build A Success Mindset!

Are you sick and tired of..

• Not being able to promote your music to a wider crowd?

• Not being able to grow a large fans base?

• Not being able to get enough gigs to large enough crowds that can produce media attention?

• Not getting your band into the spotlight?

• Not sure how to get signed?

• Not enough money to help you through...

Would you like to learn the secrets that can make a musician successful?

My friend, Kavit Haria is a world-renowned Musicians Coach supporting talented artists worldwide through personal coaching and seminars to work to achieve their great potential. He has performed with and interviewed many great musicians and music industry professionals in the world and has summarised all the tools for music success in FIVE SIMPLE PRINCIPLES and shares this through his ebook "The Five Principles of Music Success" and his national seminars.

If you're ready to get serious about your music career, click here to find out more about the book:

[Resource http://www.innerrhythm.org/ebook/]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

DO YOU MOOG?

Synth pioneer Robert Moog's daughter Michelle, has set up a foundation called The Bob Moog Foundation for Electronic Music.

Amoungst scholorships, event sponsorship and an outreach program for disadvantaged children, the foundation has introduced a podcast called Moog Foundation Podcast.

The idea is to feature artists performing Moog-based music and they are looking for submissions for future podcasts.

Read here to find out how you can submit your music.

[Resource http://www.synthtopia.com/news/06_08/Bob_Moog_Podcast.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

NEW TACTICS FOR NEW MUSIC

Read here of the successful tactics used by indie musician Justin Hunter from Katoomba NSW.

"I've had some serious knock backs. . .

At 17, he finished all of his grades, and began to perform at local cafes.

After getting $70 tips a night, it became apparent his tunes were striking a chord with listeners.

A friend suggested Justin put his music onto cd. With a ‘what have Igot to lose' mentality, he produced 200 copies. They sold in four days.

If you haven't guessed already, Justin is an upbeat, unflinching optimist. His musical career is built upon his demeanour, and it's finally starting to pay off.

[Resource http://bluemountains.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=news&subclass=features&story_id=502934&category=News%20Features&m=8&y=2006]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

NEW MUSIC MARKETING STRATEGIES

This article tells how Cory Brown, the owner of a California based record label sells the music of his stable of 20 bands.

Cory tells about the fundamental changes that have occurred in he the last 2 years in marketing of music and how he has shifted from a 'traditional' marketing strategy to online and digital marketing.

"What once was a waiting game -- bands hoping to catch the attention of high-powered record executives -- has become an exercise in vigilance, with bands seeking out new ways to reach an audience and make their own luck."

Read the full article here

[Resource http://www.nj.com/entertainment/ledger/index.ssf?/base/entertainment-1/11554445104100.xml&coll=1]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

LAUNCH YOUR INDIE MUSIC CAREER ON THE INTERNET

Here's how one US based indie musician launched a music career using iTunes and MySpace.

"She has no financial backing or marketing plan, but with the help ofnew technology, the 25-year-old who performs as Jaymay has quickly graduated from Manhattan open-mic nights to become a folk music darling."

"I've been offered conventional contracts from major record labels and very indie-friendly, unconventional contracts," Seerman said during abreak from recording. "They have offered me everything I could want."

Keep reading here to find out how Jamie "Jaymay" Kristine Seerman has managed to get more than 75,000 people to listen to her songs, sales of more than 1,300 EPs and 2,500 songs sold on iTunes.

[Resource http://news.com.com/Using+iTunes,+MySpace+to+launch+a+music+career/2100-1027_3-6103185.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

10 STEPS TO BECOMING A POWERFUL STREET PERFORMER

Kristen Anderberg has been performing as a successful busker for almost 30 years and shares in this articles some tips and things she's learned along the way.

Some (if not all) of these principles could be applied to 'stage' performing as well.

"In my fantasy world of women’s equality and a high artistic bar for street performance, I would probably recommend the following steps for a woman street performer, if my opinion was asked: 1) Memorize your music/act, 2) Stand up!, 3) Learn how to be loud, 4) Don't be a Linda McCartney, 5) Don't resort to cheesey signs, 6) Grow emotional armor,7) Excel at something, 8) Learn to perform clothed first, 9) Do not let men choose or arrange your material, 10) Lead, don't follow; Create, don't imitate!"

Read the full article here

[Resource http://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2006/08/15/18297687.php]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

DUET WITH MYSPACE

"Social-networking site MySpace's growing role as a powerful force inthe music business is sparking followers, which are offering broader features for bands and music fans in hopes of attracting the giant's audience.

On Monday, relative newcomer TagWorld launched its own music ambitions with the support of a core group of popular indie rock groups, including The Shins and Death Cab For Cutie. Like MySpace, it's offering a home for bands to post songs and connect directly to fans, but TagWorld is hoping that its design attracts viewers more specifically interested in exploring and listening to music."

Finish reading article here

[Resource http://news.com.com/Rivals+try+to+sing+along+with+MySpace/2100-1027_3-5991785.html?tag=nl]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

GOOGLE MUSIC TRENDS

From the Google Labs project, Google has launched 'Google Music Trends'.

Now you can check out the musical tastes of a broad community of Google Talk listeners.

This new Google tool could prove itself to be a valuable tool in marketing for indie musicians.

"Learn how to opt in to Music Trends to contribute your vote, or download Google Talk now to get started. You don't need to be a Google Talk user to simply view the Music Trends page and learn more about the music that people are listening to…"

[Resource http://blogs.zdnet.com/micro-markets/index.php?p=345]

technorati tags:indie, indpendent, musician

I LIKE MUSIC

The latest news from UK website ILikeMusic is the announcement of a partership with Ministry OfSound.

"Determinedly independent, www.ilikemusic.com proves that a small team of genuine music enthusiasts can more than hold their own against music sites that have a lot of cash, but little soul. As such, I Like Music is testament to the opportunity for organic growth that the Internet provides, and the importance of fresh content and good visitor figures. Five years after taking the site to the public by launching at Music Live, the small but talented team have a great understanding of good quality music and very well established industry contacts."

"The partnership sees Ministry of Sound take on digital media representation for I Like Music, introducing the independent site to the commercial world for the first time."

Read all about it here

[Resource http://www.ilikemusic.com/music_news/I_Like_Music_Partnership_With_Ministry_of_Sound-2808]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

INDEPENDENT - THE WAIFS WAY

It's always great to read about the success of independent artists and amoungst their stories are 'clues' to their success.

This comes from a recent interview in the San Francisco Chronicle with Australian band The Waifs

"...We made a cassette of six tunes to get gigs and sold 1,800 copies, which funded our first album. We started our own indie label and sold almost 30,000 records out of the back of our van. We'd pop into local record stores and leave them albums. Donna developed a distribution network and started dealing directly with big chain stores, which was unheard of. I did the publicity and Josh did the booking. When our first album jumped onto the charts, it took everyone by surprise. We were already one of the biggest touring acts, but nobody in the music business had heard of us. We'd been working underground, outside the normal music industry channels."

Read complete article here

[Resource http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/08/20/PKG4OK4J981.DTL&type=music]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

EXCLUDE SOME PEOPLE

Here's some good advice from those indie CD sales experts CDBaby!

This may seem like a strange thing to say but it does make a lot of sense.

Read all these tips here.

"Proudly say what you're NOT"

"You can't please everyone in this world. Recklessly exclude people."

"Loudly leave out 99% of the world."

[Resource http://cdbaby.net/proudly-exclude-most]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

ADELAIDE HIP-HOP MAKES HISTORY

Read here how the Hilltop Hoods have made Australian music history.

"...the first time an Australian hip-hop act had debuted at the top of the charts."

"The hip-hop community was overjoyed because it signalled the end of an era when Aussie hip-hop was dismissed by many as nothing more than a pale imitation of American hip-hop. It was also a wake-up call to the music industry that there was a mainstream market and fan base for this type of music."

[Resourcehttp://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,20069697-5003421,00.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

NEW RADIO STARS

“The radio industry wants to hear from artists and bands who have at least three songs ready to be played on commercial radio but who have not yet been signed by a record label,”

"The search for new and emerging Australian music talent is on again with the commercial radio industry announcing that the New Artist to Radio Showcase (NA2R), its annual event, aimed at unveiling the chart-toppers of tomorrow, will be held on October 13 in Sydney. The NA2R will be held in conjunction with the Australian Radio Conference and 2006 Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) at Luna Park."

Read more here.

[Resource http://www.commercialradio.com.au/]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

9 ONLINE BRANDING TIPS

9 Ways to Create a Rock-Solid
Brand Identity Online

by Bob Baker

Branding has been a business buzzword for many years. But the term has implications far beyond corporate logos, slick packaging and commercial jingles. Effective branding is all about telling customers who you are, what you do and how you do it. Despite a sluggish economy and uncertainty throughout the world, more people are spending time and money online than ever before. That's why it's vitally important for small businesses and solo entrepreneurs alike to use the Internet to make an impact.

Here are nine tips to help you carve a focused identity online.

1. Define your brand up front. When visitors arrive at your web site, let them know immediately what you do and why they should care. Far too many web sites shroud their identity in flashy graphics and ambiguous slogans without telling people what the company or person actually does. View your site through the eyes of a new visitor. Does it spell out exactly what your brand stands for? If not, redesign it so your purpose and identity are unmistakable. For example, Terri Lonier's Working Solo site at www.workingsolo.com does a good job of establishing her as a resource for freelancers. The opening paragraph lets visitors know exactly who the site is for.

2. Lead with what you do, not who you are. It may defy logic,but making your company name the most visible element on your home page may not be the most effective way to reinforce your brand. A web-basedor e-mail marketing message should state a benefit right off the bat. Which of these paints a clearer identity: The business name "Dog Owner Central" displayed in large letters or the more specific description "Training tips for busy dog owners"?

3. Use a real person as a figure head. The online world can be a cold, mechanical place. Your branding efforts are more effective when you add a recognizable, consistent human element. Think of the way Dave Thomas used to promote Wendy's. If your company has a CEO or spokesperson who is closely identified with the company offline, make sure that connection carries to the cyberworld. If you run a business by yourself, by all means, put your name, photo and personal message on your web site. Nothing creates mystery and distrust more than a site that is void of a human contact and asks visitors to send e-mail to the "webmaster."

4. Develop a fan-club mentality. Most online marketers try to generate readers, visitors or users. I encourage you to switch gears and create fans. "Users" are people who visit your web site, subscribe to your newsletter or buy your products and services. "Fans," on the other hand, cheer you on, rave about you to their friends, and eagerly follow everything you do. Which would you rather have?

5. Make good use of words. Verbal content is not only king, it's the entire kingdom. Even though designers try to squeeze as much graphic impact as they can out of limited bandwidths, what matters most online are the words you use. I don't buy into the less-is-more, bullet-point mentality of writing for the web. To create fans online,you must deliver useful brand-related information and speak to readers in a conversational tone. If it takes more than one or two scrolling screens to do that, so be it. As an example, illustrator Bob Staake has designed a web site that uses his personality effectively at www.bobstaake.com.

6. Make sure visual elements reinforce your identity. While words are important, the look of your web site must also support your brand image. Is your brand best served by hard edges or softer, rounded shapes? Do primary colors capture your personality or would earth tones be a better match? Find the design scheme that best compliments your identity.

7. Become a one-stop destination. Let's say your company sells unicorn-themed knick-knacks, posters and greeting cards. You might simply post an online catalog and a few profiles of your products. However, a far better approach would be to set up your siteas a clearing house for all things unicorn-related -- articles on the history of unicorns, personal stories from customers who have been touched by their unicorn possessions, unicorn-related photo galleries and message boards, etc. Your online presence should establish you as the primary resource in your field. For a great example of this concept in action, check out Hot Air Ballooning at www.launch.net.

8. Publish an e-mail newsletter. Having a brand-centered website is great, but you must rely on people taking it upon themselves to visit it. Offering a free e-mail newsletter allows you to build a database of subscribers who are specifically interested in what your brand represents. Best yet, being able to deliver your message bye-mail puts you in control of the frequency with which your audience is exposed to your brand. Repetition is crucial. To generate subscribers,place a newsletter sign-up form on every page of your site. Note how I've done this at my www.thebuzzfactor.com site.

9. Be visible through online forums. Small business owners should also regularly post to online forums, such as message boards and discussion lists widely read by people likely to be attracted to the brand. If your area of expertise caters to motorcycle enthusiasts, make sure you offer useful information -- not just a sales pitch -- in the places where motorcycle enthusiasts gather. Be sure to include a link to your web site in a signature file at the end of each message.

The Internet is still a gold mine of opportunity, especially for those who use it to create a recognizable brand identity. Use these tips to create your own indelible image online.

Bob Baker is the author of "Branding Yourself Online: How to Use the Internet to Become a Celebrity or Expert in Your Field." Download two chapters and get more branding tips at www.BrandingYourselfOnline.com.

[Resource http://www.bob-baker.com/branding/9ways.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

HOW TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL RECORDING ARTIST

InternetDJ Guide: How to Become a Professional Recording Artist

"Stepping up - taking dreams to success. Study this thorough article from our editor on how to succeed in the industry as an artist. Only on InternetDJ."

"...We have seen the file sharing revolution come and go as well as the rise of iTunes but now the field is opening up with a multitude of other companies jumping on the bandwagon. The end result is the death of the major labels and the rise of the successful independent artist."

Read the entire article here.

[Resource http://www.internetdj.com/article.php?storyid=805]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

BASS PLAYING TECHNIQUES

At this link you'll find some short videos on various bass techniques.

Click here.

[Resource http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhYbrORmJ5I]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

BOOSTING YOUR CD SALES AND FAN BASE

Promote your music with a newsletter.

In this article, Ty explains how to go about creating a quality newsletter.

"Who Else Wants To Sky Rocket Their CD Sales, Fan Base And Indie Music Career?"

by Ty Cohen

[Resource http://www.isnare.com/?aid=504&ca=Marketing]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

JUST DIVINE

Female musicians - If you're looking for a bit of female inspiration - think Chrissie Amphlett. Our very own Australian rock n roll icon.

Chrissie's band The Divinyls will be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.

Read here about Chrissie's latest musical adventures, as told to the Melbourne 'Age'.

"...the most dangerous and thrilling rock'n'roll front woman we have ever seen."

"Rocker-turned-musical-star Chrissie Amphlett has spent the past 10 years recovering from her torrid time in the Divinyls. But will the band's induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame wake old demons?"

[Resource http://www.theage.com.au/news/arts/a-fine-line/2006/08/03/1154198267687.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

A SUCCESSFUL MUSIC WEBSITE

Structure Of A Successful Music Website

By: Dan Meiyers

Click here to read some ideas to include in your website and the main purpose of each.

[Resource http://www.isnare.com/?aid=2996&ca=Marketing]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

2 COMMON MUSIC MARKETING MISTAKES

Music Marketing - How To Rectify The Two Most Common Mistakes Everyone Makes

By: Dominic Hough

"Music marketing is by and large difficult for most artists, that is something we need to realise. Marketing yourself, being confident to allow people to listen to your tracks and most importantly, handling criticism takes a bit of time to get used to. In the majority of cases though, marketing plans do fail. you may have a great sounding track, but if it is not marketed properly then it will just be white noise.

However all is not lost.

The main reasons why music marketing fails is that..."

Click here to learn what are 2 most common music marketing mistakes and what you can do to avoid them.

[Resource http://www.isnare.com/?aid=16390&ca=Marketing]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

GETTING RADIO TO PLAY YOUR MUSIC

This, like so many music tips is geared at the USA market. So this will be useful if you're planning on entering the US market at some stage or just adapt the ideas to suit the Australian scene.

Here's 5 Knock 'em Dead Ways to get your music heard on radio.

5 Sure Fire Ways To Get Radio Play For Your “Independent” Music!

By: Ty Cohen

[Resource http://www.isnare.com/?aid=448&ca=Entertainment]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

MUSIC AND COFFEE - A PERFECT MATCH

Here's a great marketing concept from a site I came accross called Sounds Like Cafe.

"SoundsLikeCafe has been established with the specific purpose of distributing quality Australian music to cafes and coffee shops throughout selected areas of Australia. Each SoundsLikeCafe CD features some of Australia's most highly regarded musicians and composers as well as new releases from up and coming artists."

[Resource http://www.soundslikecafe.com/]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

ITS A LONG WAY TO THE TOP

Here's an interview I came accross about a California artist called Timothy John Ramirez aka TJR.

Click on the headline to read the interview.

TJR: A Revealing Portrait of A Determined Music Indie Artist

[Resource http://newsblaze.com/story/20060804182100rich.nb/newsblaze/TOPSTORY/Top-Stories.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician

VENUES BURSTING AT THE SEEMS

Read here about the concert boom Australia is experiencing.

"Australia is experiencing a concert boom, with music fans young and old snapping up tickets to both nostalgia acts and buzz bands."

"This week 18,000 fans were gripped by Arctic Monkey fever, the Strokes play on Sunday at Festival Hall, and the UK's latest sensation, Lily Allen, hits town next week for a small club show.

Billy Joel broke the record for tickets sold at Sydney's Acer Arena (formerly Sydney Super Dome), with 17,000 tickets being snapped in in five hours for his November tour."

By Patrick Donovan , The Melbourne Age.

Things look good for live music and Australian's obviously have money to spend for he 'right' bands. Wherever the digital music world ends up - the experience of live music is still popular.

[Resource http://www.theage.com.au/news/music/venues-to-be-bursting-at-the-scenes-in-summer-of-music/2006/08/04/1154198334325.html]

technorati tags:indie, independent, musician