A person asks you, “What kind of music do you do?” Musicians say, “All styles. Everything.” That person then asks, “So who do you sound like?” Musicians say, “Nobody. We’re … Continue reading
Derek’s Archive
The Philosophies of Fame (source anonymous)
Information is the key to success Producer is businessman more than musicman or glorified arranger. Never spend your own $$$. Never borrow against current. Fame w/o Fortune = new car … Continue reading
Musicians and Bands : Follow the Compass in Your Gut
When I do my 1-2 hour talk to a crowd, I leave this point until the end, because I consider this the most important lesson I ever learned. For YEARS I … Continue reading
Have Someone Work the Inside of the Industry
I prefer to ignore the music industry. Maybe that’s why you don’t see me on the cover of Rolling Stone. One of my only regrets about my own band was … Continue reading
Music Marketing : Assume the Basic Sale, and Go for Quantity
My first job ever was telemarketing: renewing people’s subscriptions to Time magazine. We worked on commission. When I started, I used to meekly ask, “Um. Hello. Your subscription is coming … Continue reading
Go Where the Filters Are
Have you been filtered? If not, you should start now. With the internet, there are more “media outlets” than anyone can digest. People in the music biz get piles of … Continue reading
Music Promotion Tip : Take Photos of your Audience at Gigs
Secret trick to get people in the audience to sign your mailing list AND be part of your inside club. At every show you do, from now on, bring a … Continue reading
Musicians and Bands : Make your Success a We or Us. Include Everyone.
If you’re putting your fans to work, let them know they’re on the “inside family” now. That if you hit it big, THEY hit it big. No need to make … Continue reading
Musicians and Bands : Put your Fans to Work
You know those loyal few people who are in the front row every time you perform? You know those people that sat down to write you an email to say … Continue reading
Call the Destination, and Ask for Directions
Work backwards. Define your goal (your final destination) – then contact someone who’s there, and ask how to get there. If you want to be in Rolling Stone magazine, pick … Continue reading