If YOU want to take your songwriting to the next level
TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
as well as PITCH Opportunities, critiques, mentoring and networking

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Where on the web do you have your songs?
If you PITCH online it's important for you to make your songs
EASY to FIND and EASY to PLAY, Give Broadjam a try:
you can check em out and sign up at:
http://tinyurl.com/mb48w

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

If you want to RECEIVE IFS or CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS with IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS readers,

I hope this email finds you well. Today I'm going to Stanford
California and I'll be there till Tuesday August 8th swimming in the
FINA Masters (swimming) Championships
http://www.2006finamasters.org/v2/
Let me know if you live in the area or have a gig.
I love meeting IFS readers
Email me or
call me at
512-217-2728

I very much enjoyed speaking to songu on:
How Non-Performing Songwriters Get Indie Cuts
Thanks to those who participated and
it's now archived on songu
drop by and have a listen.
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

I'm sad to miss this Texas Chapter Grammy event
From: "Texas Chapter" texas@...
Subject: Invitation to Recording Academy event with Reckless
KellyThe Recording Academy� Texas Chapter presents
IN THE MIX: Celebrating Americana Music
Hosted and Special Performance by
Reckless Kelly
Tuesday, August 8, 2006
6:30 � 8:30 p.m.
Houlihan's
Rooftop Deck
309 East 3rd
(at the corner of Trinity and 3rd next to the Austin Convention
Center)
Austin, TX  78701
512.474.5757

Austin, a city flourishing with diverse musical talents, is the
perfect setting
for The Recording Academy Texas Chapter to bring together fellow
members for an
informal evening of networking and camaraderie.

From artists like James McMurtry and Kathleen Edwards to bands such
as Drive-By
Truckers and The Greencards, Americana music plays an important role
in today's
music industry, not only in Texas but on a national level.  Recently
The
Recording Academy renamed its Contemporary Folk category to
Contemporary
Folk/Americana to recognize the significance of this genre.
Join the Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy for an IN THE MIX as
we support,
cultivate, and recognize Americana music.
Admission:  Complimentary for members and a guest;
$25 for non-members
RSVP required to
Texas@... or call 512.328.8176
www.grammy.com/texas


Ande


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In the last IFS issue I let you know that songU offers PITCH
OPPORTUNITIES as well as educational opps, critiques, mentoring and
networking

Several IFS readers asked me questions
so below are the PITCH Opportunites, SongU's Spin n Pitch FAQs and
answers

Drop by
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

SongU's current list of Pitch Opportunities
Below you'll find answers to their FAQs, which I think is great
information.

Instruction:
Look at and read the pitch descriptions below. You may submit up to
the available number of pitches indicated for any opportunity. Pitch
opportunities are typically updated around the 1st and 15th of every
month. Pitch opportunities fall into one of two categories.

Screened Pitches - These will be for very competitive pitches (e.g.,
major label, major-station TV show) where you are competing against
the best songwriters in the world for the cut. Also look for
special "street pitch" opportunities indicated in red.

Unscreened Pitches - Each month we will feature pitches that will
not be screened, but instead, will go directly to the artist and/or
contact person. These may be primarily independent artists and other
on-going pitch opportunities like The Slideshow Company. We're
trusting you to read the details of the pitch and pitch
appropriately.


Pitch opportunities (screened)

Ref# Description   Deadline Available Pitches

#197  (Street Pitch) Major label FEMALE country artist looking for
UPTEMPO, swampy, raw, in- your-face, rockin' attitude songs.
deadline 8/15/2006   you may Submit  2 songs

#198  (Street Pitch) Major-label MALE country artist seeking
bluesy , southern rock, NO DITTIES ala Charlie Daniels, and Travis
Tritt.
  8/15/2006  you may Submit  2 songs

#199  (Street Pitch) Multi-Platinum BAND with male lead vocalist
with a big range looking for an "out of the box" smash song. Submit
songs with tempo (aka a groove or beat, at least mid-tempo,
preferably up-tempo). Should be more in the CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY
realm ala Rascal Flatts.
  8/15/2006      you may Submit  2 songs

#200  (Street Pitch) Major-label FEMALE country artist. Think female
Alan Jackson.
  8/15/2006     you may Submit  2 songs

#201  (Street Pitch) Major-label MALE country artist. Pitch the kind
of old school standards that you would pitch for Randy Travis.
  8/15/2006  you may Submit  2 songs


Pitch opportunities (unscreened)

Ref# Description   Deadline Available Pitches

#64  Slideshow For A Child/New Baby (ongoing). Note: Please read
details here before pitching to this opportunity.
  7/28/2006  you may Submit  2 songs


#65   Slideshow For A Slideshow For A Teen Milestone/Graduating
Senior.
Need uptempos ala "Just A Job To Do" by Genesis with a 2000's sound
or "Bring Me to Life" by Evanescence. Listen to sample to get an
idea of tempo needed(ongoing). Note: Please read details here before
pitching to this opportunity.
  7/28/2006 you may Submit  2 songs

#66  Slideshow For A Wedding (ongoing). Note: Please read details
here before pitching to this opportunity.
  7/28/2006 you may Submit  2 songs


#67  Instrumentals for a slideshow (ongoing). Note: Please read
details here before pitching to this opportunity.
  7/28/2006 you may Submit  2 songs

#75  SongU.com member Karen K. is seeking Jazz, Blues and Pop songs
for an upcoming album. She has a four octave range. Karen also
writes lyrics and is interested in co-writing for the project if you
are strong musically.
  7/30/2006 you may Submit  2 songs

#191  Established Nashville based MALE band with major label
connections looking for great commercial radio songs. Pitch your A-
list only, or write a great new song to pitch. Listen to sound
sample for casting ideas.
  7/30/2006 you may Submit  2 songs


#194  Independent FEMALE country artist. SongU.com members, PLEASE
direct your pitches appropriately! The producer is a friend of ours.
Here is the email I received from him: We're very specific in what
we need right now. One song. Radio single. UPTEMPO! Gretchen meets
Tanya Tucker meets JoDee. Sassy but not male bashing. A lyric that's
empowering to young women. We DO NOT need any ballads, period. We've
already got 'em covered and recorded. I repeat...UPTEMPO - No one
can seem to get that in their head.
8/15/2006 you may Submit  2 songs

#195  Female HIP-HOP/R&B artist looking for songs to record as she
shops a deal. Songs should be appropriate for a teenager, no
explicit sexual content please.
  8/31/2006 you may Submit  3 songs

#196  All-MALE Alt-Country band is looking for songs for a short run
demo CD on an independent label. This high powered group is
primarily looking for up tempo songs, though will consider slower
tempo pieces. The band image is best decribed as all American
renegade cowboys with a little bad boy rock and roll edge. The 23-
year old lead singer has a distinctively southern accent/drawl and a
low to mid range voice. Think George Strait meets Elvis meets Garth
Brooks and add a bit of VanZant edge.
8/31/2006 you may Submit  3 songs

#204  Four piece Bluegrass BAND featuring guitar, mando, banjo and
upright bass looking for traditional and modern bluegrass songs and
gospel bluegrass songs. Also willing to listen to other types of
songs that lend themselves to harmony singing and have 3 male
singers.
  8/31/2006 you may Submit  2 songs


#205  FEMALE country artist with major label interest is looking for
songs
with smart lyrical content (please no redneck or alchol songs). They
should be either up tempos with an edgy-bluesy feel and driving
beats, or soulful ballads that build in intensity a la Martina
McBride or Carrie Underwood. MEMBER NOTE: We are getting special
permission to submit mp3s from this producer who is a friend of
SongU.com. Please submit appropriate material only so he stays a
friend. Thanks!
you may Submit  2 songs

to pitch your songs on SongU drop by
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Spin N' Pitch FAQs

What Is Spin N' Pitch?
Is There A Separate Fee For Spin N' Pitch?
How Does Spin N' Pitch Work?
Coaching Versus Pitching
Am I Ready To Pitch My Songs?
Who Are The Spin N' Pitch Guests?
Do I Need A Professional Demo?
Can I Submit A Lyric Only?
In What Format Should I Submit My Songs?
Can I Use A Format Other Than MP3?
Can I Mail You A CD?
Do I Need To Upload Lyrics With My MP3?
At What Time Does A Pitch Opportunity End?
Can I Submit A Song After The Deadline?
What Are Screened Pitches?
What Are Street Pitches?
What Are Unscreened Pitches?
Why Screen Songs At All?
  Can I Cancel A Song I Pitched?
How Long Before I Hear Anything?
Why Would A Song Not Get Forwarded?
Can I Get More Specific Feedback?
I'm Getting Different Opinions On The Same Song
But My Coach LOVED This Song!
What If Someone Is Interested In My Song?
And Then What Happens After That?
Do I Have To Give SongU.com My Publishing?
What's The "Terms Of Use" Checkbox For?
Help! I'm Having Problems Uploading My MP3
Help! My Song Sounds Like The Chipmunks
I'm Getting Different Opinions On The Same Song
How Do I Create An MP3 In iTunes?
Help! I've Been Rejected
Ugh! I'm Feeling Discouraged
I Can't Handle Rejection
What If I Have Other Problems Or Questions?


---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------

What Is Spin N' Pitch?
Spin N' Pitch is a special feature of SongU.com that gives members
an opportunity to pitch their songs to a variety of music industry
professionals in various musical genres, including Pop/Rock,
Country, CCM, Urban and Film & TV. It is a way for SongU.com members
to gain access to top music industry professionals and have their
songs heard.



Is There A Separate Fee For Spin N' Pitch?
No. SongU.com does not charge any per pitch fees no ask for any
publishing on the songs. Spin N' Pitch is simply a benefit for our
platinum members so those who are writing competitive songs have
opportunities and outlets to pitch them.



What Is The Difference Between Coaching And Pitching?
Your coach has one primary focus -- to work with you on the song you
submit to make it as good as possible. Naturally, by definition, a
coach will also try to bring out the best in your writing. With
coaching, the only competition when you submit a song is yourself.
However, pitching requires an entirely different mindset because
every song and every idea is competing against every other song and
idea, including those of other hit writers. So, it may be that even
if you've written the best possible song you can, it still may be
not be a strong enough idea, etc. to make the song stand out from
the crowd when pitching it. The crowd is not just SongU.com members -
- the crowd is every songwriter writing and pitching songs. So
that's a pretty big crowd where you and your song need to stand out.
By the way, if you want your coach to compare you to the "crowd"
with the song you've submitted, put that in the notes section of
your coaching submission so they'll know how to approach the song.



Am I Ready To Pitch My Songs?
That depends. The guiding philosophy at SongU.com is education. Spin
N' Pitch is educational in that it will give you real world
experience pitching. But there's good and bad that goes along with
that. It's exciting to be able to pitch your songs, but it's
frustrating when they don't get forwarded or you don't hear anything
back. That is part of what you must learn as a professional writer.
You should only jump into pitching if your coach or one of the
instructors feels you are ready to be pitching songs and you should
be prepared for some rejection (well, a lot of rejection). Just
remember that pitching alone is not what makes a professional
songwriter -- it's continuing to hone your craft while forming
relationships with co-writers and others. Ultimately, this is what
will improve your odds of something happening with one of your songs.



How Does Spin N' Pitch Work?
Each month SongU.com will have several pitch opportunities listed.
Pitch opportunities are typically updated about twice a month
(usually on the 1st and 15th of the month). Details about each
opportunity will appear in My Pitching area of the website. For each
pitch opportunity you will be allowed to submit songs through the
SongU.com uploader in much the same way as you do for the SongU.com
coaching service. Note that each pitch opportunity will also have a
maximum number of songs that you may submit as well as a submission
deadline.



Who Are The Spin N' Pitch Guests?
Guests will represent a variety of outlets that songwriters normally
pursue to have their songs heard. Among the guests will be A&R
representatives from major record labels, producers, publishers,
independent songpluggers, managers, independent artists, etc.



Do I Need A Professional Demo?
Yes. Unlike with coaching where you don't need a professional demo,
for pitching purposes, you want to present your song as very
professionally. This doesn't mean that you need a full band demo for
every song. In many cases, a good quality guitar/vocal or
piano/vocal will probably be fine. But some Spin N' Pitch sessions
such as the ones directed toward Film/TV may require more fully
produced demos. Be sure to carefully read the pitch description
prior to submitting any of your songs for the Spin N' Pitch. For an
interesting discussion on demos, check out Cole Wright's talk in the
SongU.com library where he plays examples of guitar/vocal and
piano/vocal demos that went on to become hit songs. At SongU.com we
highly recommend you have you song evaluated prior to investing in a
demo of a song.



Can I Submit A Lyric Only?
No. Unlike coaching where you can submit lyric-only, pitching is
restricted to complete songs (lyric and MP3). This isn't because
SongU.com restricts it. It's simply because no one in the industry
will consider just a lyric only for a pitch. You might consider
trying to meet a collaborator through one of the SongU.com Clubs on
the discussion board or Yearbook or by participating in one of our
regular song challenges where we will hook you up with a co-writer.



In What Format Should I Submit My Songs?
Your songs must be uploaded in the same format that is used for your
personal website or for coaching. This should be an MP3 that is
128kbps or less. Keep in mind that if the guest is listening on a
dialup and it takes 30 seconds for your song to load because you
created it in 128kbps, the guest will likely not take the time to
listen to your song. So find a good balance between quality and file
size. For more information, see the course GEN 110 - Preparing Your
Audio For Uploading. Note: there is a 5M limit on filesize for your
song.



Can I Use A Format Other Than MP3 Like Midi Or Wav?
No. All songs submitted need to be in MP3 format which is the
standard format for pitching songs via the Internet. For more
information on the MP3 format, see the course GEN 110 - Preparing
Your Audio For Uploading.



Can I Mail You A CD?
No. Spin N' Pitch is done entirely online. You will have to submit
your songs in the appropriate MP3 format to participate in Spin N'
Pitch. If you are not sure how to do this, see the course GEN 110 -
Preparing Your Audio For Uploading. This will give you additional
details on how to get your audio files in the correct MP3 format.



Do I Need To Upload Lyrics With My MP3?
Yes. This way if the guest has any trouble understanding any words
on the song, they will have easy access to viewing the lyrics. You
should also try to make sure that the words and vocal are loud
enough over the music and are set at the proper levels. For more
information about appropriate vocal levels on a demo see the course
TECH 110 - Demo Essentials.



When (At What Time) Does The Pitch Opportunity End?
All submission deadlines are listed as midnight ET (i.e., Eastern
Time - New York City time). For more information, view the world
time zone clock at: www.timeanddate.com/worldclock.



Can I Submit A Song After The Submission Deadline, PLEASE?
No. We simply list the deadline provided to us either by our A&R
consultant who is listening for upcoming meetings or by the contact
who has submitted the pitch listing. If we do hear the date has been
extended for any particular pitch, we will certainly extend it at
SongU.com. Note that all submission deadlines are listed as midnight
ET (i.e., Eastern Time - New York City time).



What Are Screened Pitches?
Screened pitches very competitive pitches (e.g., major label, major-
station TV show) where you are competing against the best
songwriters in the world for the cut. Here's a brief summary of how
screened pitches work at SongU.com:

Screened pitches are very competitive. The bar for getting forwarded
on these is that your song must be competitive against other
professional writers, not just other SU members. Music industry
professionals have very good memories for songs. If we invite a top
producer to listen to songs from our members and they hear songs
that they believe aren't competitive, it's unlikely we will be able
to get that producer to listen to our members' songs again (and
that's not good for anyone). So if none of the songs are competitive
enough for a pitch, none will get forwarded. If all of them are
competitive, all of them will get forwarded.
You will receive notification from the screeners. You will be
notified when your song is screened and whether or not it's
forwarded. Sometimes you will receive this feedback before the pitch
deadline while other times it may be after the pitch deadline.
But you will not receive detailed feedback from the screeners. A
screener may include some information why your song isn't forwarded,
but their function is really that of a yes/no person. While you may
not agree with their decisions all the time (particularly when
they "pass" on one of your new "babies"), we have to respect their
judgment. If your song isn't forwarded, run it by one of the SU
coaches or bring it to a feedback class where we can all decide
whether the screener is off their rocker or whether something is
inherently wrong with the song.
You probably will not receive notification from the industry guest.
As is customary in the industry, you will only receive notification
if someone is interested in your song (that's the only time we're
notified). That's just customary practice. In a perfect world, we'd
get a personal phone call anytime anyone listened to our song with
the reasons why they don't think it's appropriate for their artist.
But in the imperfect music industry where A&R reps and producers
listen to over a 1000 songs per week, it just doesn't happen.
Believe me, if they love a song, they will hunt you down and find
you somehow. If we do receive any other information, we will be sure
to forward it on to you.


What Are Street Pitches?
This is a special type of "screened" pitch. We have contracted with
a professional A&R consultant who will be screening songs for
upcoming pitch meetings. If your song is accepted, it will be burned
onto CD and will go with the A&R consultant to the meeting to be
hand delivered. You will also see special types of "street" pitches
indicated as a "Quick Pitch". These are street pitches with a very
quick turnaround. In other words, the artist may already be in the
studio or they may have dropped a song and suddenly need another
one. Here's a brief summary of how street pitches work at SongU.com:

Street pitches are very, very competitive. The bar for getting
forwarded on these it that the A&R consultant (who will screen all
these pitches) must feel confident enough about the song to walk
into a meeting with it or hand deliver it personally to the contact
person.
You will receive notification from the screener. You will be
notified when your song is listened to by our A&R consultant and
told whether or not the song will be pitched to the contact.
Sometimes you will receive this feedback before the pitch deadline
while other times it may be after the pitch deadline.
You will not received detailed feedback from the screener. The A&R
consultant may include some information why your song isn't
forwarded, but their function is really that of a yes/no person.
While you may not agree with their decisions all the time
(particularly when they "pass" on one of your new "babies"), we have
to respect their judgment since they are the ones who have to
present the song.
You probably will not receive notification from the industry guest.
As is customary in the industry, you will only receive notification
if someone is interested in your song (that's the only time we're
notified). That's just customary practice. In a perfect world, we'd
get a personal phone call anytime anyone listened to our song with
the reasons why they don't think it's appropriate for their artist.
But in the imperfect music industry where A&R reps and producers
listen to over a 1000 songs per week, it just doesn't happen.
Believe me, if they love a song, they will hunt you down and find
you somehow. If we do receive any other information from the guest
or our A&R consultant, we will be sure to forward it on to you.


What Are Unscreened Pitches?
This is your opportunity to be your own screener! Each month we will
also be adding pitches that will not be screened, but instead, will
go directly to the artist and/or contact person. These may be
primarily independent artists and other on-going pitch opportunities
like The Slideshow Company. We're trusting you to read the details
of the pitch and pitch appropriately. Here's a brief summary of how
street pitches work at SongU.com:

Unscreened pitches go directly to the contact. Since there is no
screening on this process, what you pitch will go directly to the
contact person. Because of this, you can't "cancel" or remove a
pitch (i.e., take it back). As soon as you submit it, it's on its
way. Therefore we ask that you cast your pitches objectively like a
professional songwriter.
You MUST pitch appropriately. Read the entire pitch description and
pitch appropriately. Don't waste the artist's time. While there may
be occasions when you're sitting in a meeting with someone when you
can say, "hey, I know you want uptempos, but take a listen to this
ballad" -- we cannot do this online. If an artist requests uptempos,
pitch only uptempos. If they request Jazz, do not pitch a country
demo with pedal steel or a hip-hop track. Anything you pitch
inappropriately not only reflects poorly on you and also hurts other
SU members because it makes it less likely the artist will take
other pitches from SongU.com members seriously. If we hear back from
a contact that they have received poorly cast songs from an SU
member, that member will receive a one-time warning. Any further
infraction will result in a loss of pitching privileges.
You may or may not receive notification from the contact. There's no
way to know whether or not the contact will respond personally. It
probably just depends on the number of submissions they receive.
Again, the custom in the industry is that you only receive
notification if someone is interested in your song. If we do receive
any other information, we will be sure to forward it on to you.


How Long Before I Hear Anything?
Remember that with unscreened pitches, you will only be notified if
the guest expresses an interest in the song. With screened pitches,
you will always receive a notification from the screener, but the
timing of this may vary. Screeners sometimes listen before the pitch
deadline and sometimes right after the pitch deadline. So unlike
coaching where you will usually hear something in 5-7 days, you may
not receive a notification from the screener until a week after the
pitch deadline. If the pitch deadline for a screened pitch passed
over a week ago and you have not heard anything, please send an
email to pitching@.... Be sure to include the song title and
pitch ID# so we can follow-up on the status of your song with the
screener.



Why Screen Songs At All?
Songs are screened primarily for two reasons -- your reputation and
our reputation. And while there is always a certain amount of
subjectivity when listening to songs, music industry professionals
have very good memories for bad songs. In general, if you have a
meeting with a publisher and pitch songs that the publisher feels
aren't competitive, you will most likely have a difficult time
getting an appointment to see that publisher again. If we invite the
head of A&R at a major label to listen to songs from our members or
our consultant plays songs for a top producer and they hear songs
that they believe aren't competitive, it's unlikely we will be able
to get that producer to listen to our members' songs again. We want
to establish SongU.com as a place where quality songs are the end
result of learning and working at the craft of songwriting.



Why Would A Song Not Get Forwarded?
The email you receive will list the reasons why the screener did not
forward the song. The SongU.com screeners may "pass" on a song for
one of the following reasons:

Almost - The screener may mark this is they believe your song style
was very close to being on target but overall just wasn't the best
match for this pitch. You should however continue to pitch this song
for other pitch opportunities since it may be appropriate for
another artist at a different time.
Strength of song - The screener may not believe the song is strong
enough to be competitive for this particular pitch. While you may
not agree with their decisions all the time, we do have to respect
their judgment (see dealing with rejection below). You might
consider running the song by one of the SongU.com coaches or
bringing it to a feedback class where we can all decide whether the
screener is off their rocker or whether something is inherently
wrong with the song.
Demo - The screener will may also "pass" on a song if they don't
believe the demo is competitive enough for a particular pitch. Songs
do not need to be fully demoed, but they do need to presented
professionally since they are being pitched to industry
professionals. For example, a song played on an out of tune guitar
with a dog barking in the background will most certainly not get
forwarded.
Casting - The screener may not forward a song if they don't believe
it's a good match for this particular pitch opportunity. If the
pitch is for an Urban Music Producer from NYC looking for Rap songs,
a traditional country song will not get forwarded even if it's a
great song with a fabulous demo.


Can I Get More Specific Feedback From The Screener?
The purpose of Spin N' Pitch is to provide "real world" experience
in pitching for SongU.com members. Typically, in the real world of
pitching, you get no feedback why someone "passed" on your song
except for a simple yes or no. You can get more specific feedback on
your song using the SongU.com song evaluation service or by brining
it to one of the feedback courses.



I'm Getting Different Opinions On The Same Song
Like movies, everyone has an opinion on every song and often they
don't agree. This is a dilemma that every professional songwriter
faces. I'd love to tell you it gets better or goes away, but it
never does. You play something for the producer and he loves it, but
A&R doesn't. You play something for one plugger at your company and
he loves it and pitches it while the other plugger at your company
isn't in to the song. A&R, the producer and the lead singer of the
band love the song, but the artist's wife doesn't like the song so
it doesn't get cut. Sometimes you play the song for the same person
who rejected it two months ago and suddenly they love it. Generally
speaking, if you get two different opinions, you might want to try
for a third opinion to see if you can get a consensus about the
song. You can always get another opinion from a different coach or
by bringing the song to one of the SongU.com feedback courses.



But My Coach LOVED This Song. Why Wasn't It Forwarded?
The more common reasons for this would include that the song isn't
the right song for this particular pitch or that the demo isn't
strong enough for the song to be pitched. A demo that might be
acceptable for a publisher pitch, might not be acceptable for a
Film/TV pitch or an A&R pitch. Occasionally, it may be that the
screener simply does not "hear" your song. In this case, if you've
already had your song evaluated by a SongU.com coach, you might try
pitching that song again for a different pitch and see if a
different screener reacts differently. Or, you might consider
getting a second opinion on the song from a different SongU.com
coach.



Can I Cancel A Song I Pitched Before It's Been Screened?
It depends. It's not possible to cancel unscreened pitches since
they are sent directly to the guest, but it is possible to remove a
song for a screened pitch as long as the screener hasn't listened to
your song. Just go to the "Songs Submitted " area below the pitch
listings on the My Pitching page and you'll see a link that you can
click to remove the pitch if it hasn't been screened. If the
screener has already listened to your song, the link to remove your
song will not be present.



What Happens If Someone Is Interested In My Song?
That's great! You'll be notified via email and asked to contact the
SongU.com staff for the correct follow-up procedure. Depending on
the guest, the follow-up procedure may vary from simply supplying a
leadsheet and a CD quality MP3, to being offered a contract for one
of your songs. In all such cases, SongU.com is simply the means that
connects your song to the Spin N' Pitch guest. So you are under no
obligation to accept any offers from any of these pitch
opportunities should someone be interested in your song. Naturally,
if you are offered a contract, SongU.com strongly encourages you to
seek the advice of an experienced entertainment attorney prior to
signing it.



And Then What Happens After A Guest Is Interested In A Song?
Since Spin N' Pitch mirrors what happens in the music industry, the
results are the same. Sometimes guests respond immediately and ask
for a contract -- this is common with our publisher guests. Often
with the artist projects, you still have a few more hoops to jump
through and most times you won't know anything concrete for several
more weeks or even months. It may be that the artist needs to play
the songs they like for the producer or A&R. Or, A&R needs to play
them for the artist or the producer. You get the idea. A good
example of this practice in action was our pitch ID #160 (a well-
known choir). They have expressed an interest in several SongU.com
members songs (and have raved about the quality of songs submitted).
But like all projects, they have been gathering up songs that
they're interested in from lots of sources. Right before they cut,
they'll narrow it down to the final ones that will make the project
(yes, that's exactly what happens in the industry). Here's the note
we received from the head of A&R at their label explaining this
process:

"We'll be selecting the 24 songs that will be going on the 2-CD
project in the next 3 weeks, after which I'll be contacting the
writers of the songs that are selected. We have a total of about 125
songs to chose from and over the course of 3 days we'll be selecting
the final 24. Feel free to relay this message to the writers.
Thanks!"



Do I Have To Give SongU.com My Publishing?
No. You retain all rights to your song and SongU.com takes no money
or publishing (however, a thank you in your Grammy acceptance speech
would be appreciated ;-). SongU.com is merely the means that
connects your song to the Spin N' Pitch guest. You are under no
obligation to accept any offers from the SongU Spin N' Pitch guests.
If you are offered a contract, SongU.com strongly encourages you to
seek the advice of an experienced entertainment attorney prior to
signing it.



What's The "Terms Of Use" Checkbox For?
Our lawyers have requested all members agree to a release/consent
form with each pitch. It's a simple checkbox on the bottom of the
page where you paste in your lyrics and basically is there to cover
stuff related to the street pitches (like giving us permission to
burn a CD for pitching purposes, etc) as well as the unscreened
pitches.



Help! I'm Having Problems Uploading My MP3
If you have a problem uploading an MP3, it's usually due to one of
the following reasons:

Strange characters in the filename - Be sure that the filename
itself isn't over 40 characters and doesn't have any strange
characters in it like an question mark or exclamation mark. If your
song title is "Why Don't They Stay Together?", one example of a
filename that might be appropriate might be stayTogether.mp3.
The file is too big - If the file in question is at CD quality MP3
compression (256k), it may be too large to upload or take too long
on your connection. There is a 5M limit on any uploads to the site,
so it's important to compress the MP3 file before uploading it. For
more information on how to compress the MP3 file, see the course GEN
110 - Preparing Your Audio For Uploading.
The file actually uploaded but the notification didn't work -
Sometimes, that pop-up won't that tells you that your file is
uploading either doesn't appear or doesn't disappear even thought
the file uploads correctly. Make sure your pop-up blocker is off.
Don't forget that you can always check your file by looking at the
pending evaluation to see if it appears and whether or not the file
plays correctly. If it plays correctly, then it uploaded properly
and the notification simply didn't appear/disappear.
The file isn't actually an MP3 - Make sure the file in question is
an MP3 file. Simply renaming a file and putting MP3 on the file
extension won't make it an MP3 if it was recorded using RealPlayer
for example.


Help! My Song Sounds Like The Chipmunks
There's a bug in the Flash Player audio streamer that causes this
effect sometimes. It's not a SongU.com bug, but a Flash player bug.
This bug often appears if the sampling rate is not a multiple of the
common rates of 11khz, 22khz or 44khz. We are aware of this bug and
have provided all screeners an alternate means to listen to the song
without using the Flash player in the event this happens. So you
don't know need to worry about it because the screener will be able
to hear your song normally.



How Do I Create An MP3 In iTunes Using The Right Settings?
You can find detailed information on converting to MP3 formats in
the SongU.com course, GEN 110 - Preparing Your Audio For Uploading.
But I've included below a quick run down of the steps to create your
MP3 using iTunes. iTunes is a great little MP3 player/converter
that's available for both PC and Mac (you can download iTunes for
free from www.iTunes.com). If you run into problems, you can also
email our resident MP3 guru, Kent Forward at: kent@....

STEP I: Set iTunes to the proper MP3 compression (you only need to
do this once)
Start up iTunes
Go under edit -> preferences -> advanced
Click on the "importing" tab
Make sure the "import using" dropdown box has "MP3 encoder" selected
Under the setting dropdown box, choose "custom". A box with settings
will pop-up
In the customs settings box, set it to 64kbps (or some value less
than 128kbps)
Uncheck the VBR checkbox if it's checked
Leave the sample rate dropdown box at "auto"
Change the channels to "mono"
Click "ok"
STEP II: Create and Save The MP3:
Pop in your CD with your song and it should appear in the iTunes
playlist
Right-click on it and you can choose "convert to MP3". Note that it
will save it in whatever location on your computer is specified in
the settings in iTunes
You can change that or see where it is by going to edit ->
preferences -> advanced and then clicking on the "general" tab
You should now have an MP3 of your song that you can upload!


Help! I've Been Rejected
No, you haven't been rejected -- your song just didn't find its home
on a particular pitch. That is part of the education of Spin N'
Pitch -- dealing with the inevitable rejection that comes with being
a professional songwriter. Hall of fame writer, Gary Burr, has
hundreds of songs that he's written that haven't been cut as has
every other professional songwriter. Pitching songs and having them
rejected is just part of the job description of the professional
songwriter. No one enjoys it because it 99 times out of 100 your
song will be rejected. A professional songwriter who gets even 5-10%
of his/her catalog recorded, is considered extremely successful.
That's without looking at how many times each song that eventually
got recorded was previously rejected. You could curl up in a hole
and avoid pitching songs, but an interesting thing happens when you
don't pitch your songs -- they don't get cut!



Ugh! I'm Feeling Discouraged
If you think about it, every song that is pitched is rejected
(except for the 11 or 12 that actually made the record). This means
that hundreds of songs by hit writers are turned down for every
project. So you're in very good company. And you can bet that even
the songs that made the record have been rejected plenty of times
too. For example, "I Swear" was turned down over 40 times by various
A&R reps, producers, etc. before John Michael Montgomery eventually
turned it into a #1 country smash that was also re-recorded by the
group All-4-One and spent several weeks at #1 on the pop
charts. "There's Your Trouble" was turned down by two A&R
representatives at Sony before songplugger Tommy Williams pitched it
to one of the Dixie Chicks producers who cut the song...the Dixie
Chicks of course were on the Sony label. Just because a song wasn't
forwarded doesn't mean it's the end of the line for that song.



I Can't Handle Rejection
Eat chocolate. Throw eggs off the back porch. Take up kick boxing.
Or, find another career. Rejection is unavoidable in the music
business. As hall of fame songwriter, Rory Bourke once said --
"If you're not getting rejected every single day, then you're not
doing your job."


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

jonas@... writes:
Hey Ande,
     I'm Jonas Alvarez a songwriter from Austin. I
receive your IFS news letter...I really enjoy reading
all the info. you send. I'v read your bio before and
went to your myspace and heard your songs...wow really
enjoyed them.

     I've entered songs of mine in the 2005 and 2006
Austin Songwriters Contest and have won 1st place in 3
catagories rock, jazz, general(world music), I play live
with my band Alteza...my lyrics are in Spanish and
music is latin based. What do I do to get involved
with others in same genre...or where do I go to find
others doing something similar? I've talked to Lee
Duffy, Monte Warden and others...What's your advice?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thanks for all you do!

Jonas

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's a note from Austin SongWRitersGroup

The Fall ASG Song Contest & Conference Kick Off

We will have further details in the coming weeks, but start getting
your best songs together to enter in ASG's Fall Song Contest. While
details are still developing, what we do know at this time is that
the Awards Show will take place on Friday evening, November 17th at
Threadgill's on the eve of the ASG Songwriter's Conference, which
commences the very next morning at the Embassy Suites hotel.

We will have full information on both of these events confirmed in a
few weeks, but make sure you mark your calendars now for the entire
weekend of November 17-19. You don't want to miss a minute of what
we have in store that weekend.

Need for Additional Board Members:

Through the passing of time, changing personal circumstances and
your basic attrition, every now and then it becomes necessary to
bring in some new members to the ASG Board. In 2006, two of our
Board Members have ended their tenures with ASG and it is time the
remaining Board Members begin looking for suitable candidates to
help guide ASG in the coming years. If you think you may have an
interest, as well as a special set of skills that would enhance the
ASG Board's efforts to assist developing songwriters, then I
encourage you to email me and let your intentions be known. While
the Board won't be making an immediate decision in these matters,
there is no time like the present to set an intention to grow your
own dream a little bigger. So, speak up if you want to get more
involved with ASG.

That's all for now, y'all.

Peace,
Rick Busby
ASG Publicity Director
Email: rickbusby@...
Web: http://austinsongwritersgroup.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Performing Songwriters Boot Camp returns to the foot of the
majestic Grand
Teton Mountains near Jackson, Wyoming, August 6-13. A fun and
intensive week of
creativity and songwriting workshops with JoAnn and John Braheny
(author of the
best-seller, The Craft and Business of Songwriting and TAXI
screener). Also
renowned voice/performance coach Steven Memel will help you hone
your stage
skills. Includes production of a song demo by producer/event
organizer Lauren
Adams. For info on the program, go to
www.performingsongwritersbootcamp.org.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


SongRamp Has a new look and many new features, I've gone in the new
management area and poked around. I'm having trouble figuring out
how to do that used to be simple.  I did finally figure out how to
edit lyrics but I'm struggling with figuring out how to change song
order and moving songs from my public page to my private page.
http://www.songramp.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

check out
http://www.westcoastsongwriters.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Congratulations to FAITH RIVERA
on her Wednesday, August 02, 2006 myspace blog I read that

"Colors of Praise" awarded the "Most Uniting Song"

The New Thought Songwriters Tribute awarded "Colors of Praise" as
the "Most Uniting Song" this past Wed 7/26 in Scottsdale, Arizona!

Charts & Karaoke tracks are available for Colors of Praise at
http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Store.html
if you and/or your choir would like to perform this song!

*Home of the New Thought Songwriters Tribute awards & where you can
nominate your favorite new thought songwriter for the 2007 awards
http://www.itoiministries.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

If YOU want to take your  songwriting to a whole new level
TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Where on the web do you have your songs?
Consider Broadjam
you can check it out and sign up at:
http://affiliate.broadjam.net/signup?
a_aid=930de708&a_bid=4a8ac13e&target=4

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS readers,

I hope this email finds you well.


Tonight at 8:00 pm CT I'm giving an online talk at songu in their E-
Auditorium my topic is:
How Non-Performing Songwriters Get Indie Cuts
drop by
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
Maybe I'll see you there

I attended my first Texas Grammy Chapter Retreat on tuesday July
25th.

Are you a Grammy Voting member?
Could you be a voting member?
I feel a sense of pride carrying my Grammy voting member card,
attending their events and participating in the Grammy process.


I'll be in Stanford CA from Friday August 4th till Tuesday August
8th at the FINA Masters Championships (swimming)
http://www.2006finamasters.org/v2/
Contact me if you live in the area

Ande


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

songU offers pitch opportunities
Drop by
www.SongU.com/ifs

here's their current list

songu opps

Pitch opportunities (screened)

Ref# Description   Deadline Available
Pitches

#197
(Street Pitch) Major label FEMALE country artist looking for
UPTEMPO, swampy, raw, in- your-face, rockin' attitude songs.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

#198
(Street Pitch) Major-label MALE country artist seeking bluesy ,
southern rock, NO DITTIES ala Charlie Daniels, and Travis Tritt.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

#199
(Street Pitch) Multi-Platinum BAND with male lead vocalist with a
big range looking for an "out of the box" smash song. Submit songs
with tempo (aka a groove or beat, at least mid-tempo, preferably up-
tempo). Should be more in the CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY realm ala Rascall
Flatts.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

#200
(Street Pitch) Major-label FEMALE country artist. Think female Alan
Jackson.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

#201
(Street Pitch) Major-label MALE country artist. Pitch the kind of
old school standards that you would pitch for Randy Travis.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

Pitch opportunities (unscreened)
Ref# Description   Deadline Available
Pitches

#64
Slideshow For A Child/New Baby (ongoing). Note: Please read details
here before pitching to this opportunity.

7/28/2006
2 - Submit

#65
Slideshow For A Slideshow For A Teen Milestone/Graduating Senior.
Need uptempos ala "Just A Job To Do" by Genesis with a 2000's sound
or "Bring Me to Life" by Evanescence. Listen to sample to get an
idea of tempo needed(ongoing). Note: Please read details here before
pitching to this opportunity.

7/28/2006
2 - Submit

#66
Slideshow For A Wedding (ongoing). Note: Please read details here
before pitching to this opportunity.

7/28/2006
2 - Submit

#67
Instrumentals for a slideshow (ongoing). Note: Please read details
here before pitching to this opportunity.

7/28/2006
2 - Submit

#75
SongU.com member Karen K. is seeking Jazz, Blues and Pop songs for
an upcoming album. She has a four octave range. Karen also writes
lyrics and is interested in co-writing for the project if you are
strong musically.

7/30/2006
1 - Submit

#191
Established Nashville based MALE band with major label connections
looking for great commercial radio songs. Pitch your A-list only, or
write a great new song to pitch. Listen to sound sample for casting
ideas.

7/30/2006
2 - Submit

#194
Independent FEMALE country artist. SongU.com members, PLEASE direct
your pitches appropriately! The producer is a friend of ours. Here
is the email I received from him: We're very specific in what we
need right now. One song. Radio single. UPTEMPO! Gretchen meets
Tanya Tucker meets JoDee. Sassy but not male bashing. A lyric that's
empowering to young women. We DO NOT need any ballads, period. We've
already got 'em covered and recorded. I repeat...UPTEMPO - No one
can seem to get that in their head.

8/15/2006
2 - Submit

#195
Female HIP-HOP/R&B artist looking for songs to record as she shops a
deal. Songs should be appropriate for a teenager, no explicit sexual
content please.

8/31/2006
3 - Submit

#196
All-MALE Alt-Country band is looking for songs for a short run demo
CD on an independent label. This high powered group is primarily
looking for up tempo songs, though will consider slower tempo
pieces. The band image is best decribed as all American renegade
cowboys with a little bad boy rock and roll edge. The 23-year old
lead singer has a distinctively southern accent/drawl and a low to
mid range voice. Think George Strait meets Elvis meets Garth Brooks
and add a bit of VanZant edge.

8/31/2006
3 - Submit

#204
Four piece Bluegrass BAND featuring guitar, mando, banjo and upright
bass looking for traditional and modern bluegrass songs and gospel
bluegrass songs. Also willing to listen to other types of songs that
lend themselves to harmony singing and have 3 male singers.

8/31/2006
3 - Submit

#205
FEMALE country artist with major label interest is looking for songs
with smart lyrical content (please no redneck or alchol songs). They
should be either up tempos with an edgy-bluesy feel and driving
beats, or soulful ballads that build in intensity a la Martina
McBride or Carrie Underwood. MEMBER NOTE: We are getting special
permission to submit mp3s from this producer who is a friend of
SongU.com. Please submit appropriate material only so he stays a
friend. Thanks!

to pitch your songs on SongU drop by
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SongRamp Has a new look and many new features
http://www.songramp.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Call for Scores: Please post the following announcement i your next
newsletter or publication. Thank You, Howard Quilling, Director, New
Directions Concerts.

The Bakersfield Symphony New Directions Concerts is making its
annual call for scores. We are looking for scores for chamber
ensembles of up to seven instruments. Our basic group is made up of
flute, oboe, clarinet, violin, cello, piano and percussion. Other
standard orchestral instruments, such as organ, guitar, voice or
brass instruments are on call if needed. The submitting deadline is
December 1, 2006. There is a $25.00 non-refundable processing fee,
and a SASE is required if you want your material returned. Please
send scores only, no parts, and a recording (CD or tape) for each
piece. Please do not send orchestral pieces or pieces with
electronics because there is no way we are able to perform them.
Send scores and recordings to the

Bakersfield Symphony,
New Directions Concerts,
1328 34th Street,
Bakersfield, CA 93301


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

American Idol AUDITION INFORMATION

Los Angeles, CA
Pasadena Rose Bowl
Tuesday, August 8, 2006

San Antonio, TX
Alamodome
Friday, August 11, 2006

East Rutherford, NJ
Continental Airlines Arena
Monday, August 14, 2006

Birmingham, AL
BJCC
Monday, August 21, 2006

Memphis, TN
FedExForum
Sunday, September 3, 2006

Minneapolis, MN
Target Center
Friday, September 8, 2006

Seattle, WA
KeyArena
Tuesday, September 19, 2006

http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ABC discontinued The One due to poor ratings.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

PRESS RELEASE:

August 1, 2006



Denver native and Nashville rising country music star Kate Sansing is
teaming up with Southwest Airlines to promote their new non-stop
Nashville-Denver service.   On Friday, August 4, Kate will be helping
Southwest celebrate the new route by riding the inaugural outbound
and
return flights, greeting passengers and passing out commemorative
copies of
her current radio single, "Go Sit In The Truck, imprinted with the
Southwest
logo.  The new single can be found on her self-titled debut album
that was
released in June. Trivia contests and fun prizes will be given away
during
the day's festivities on the airborne flights and at the gates while
passengers are waiting to board.   Kate will also give a live
acoustic
performance in front of the Southwest gates on the concourse at DIA
prior to
the departure back to Nashville.



The Southwest promotion is the latest among a growing list of
Colorado
events that Kate Sansing has been involved with this summer as the
hometown
girl celebrating the release of her new CD.  In June she performed
in front
of thousands during the ceremony at the Capitol marking the release
of
Colorado's new commemorative quarter. On July 22, Kate gave a
concert at the
100th Anniversary of the Arapahoe County Fair.

For interviews, photos and copies of Kate's CD,
contact Doak Turner
615-354-6400 or doakt@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Recording Academy Texas Chapter:  Weekly Reminders

This is a reminder of important dates and deadlines. Please enter
them into your calendars:

August 1:  Awards: Member Online Entry Process Opens

August 4: Deadline to turn in a list of your top 3 priorities from
ideas generated at the retreat - see attached document, select 3
ideas, and email them to Fiona and Theresa

August 8: IN THE MIX: Celebrating Americana Music, Austin
          6:30-8:30 pm
                 Houlihan's Rooftop Deck
                 309 E. 3rd Street
                 Austin, TX 78701
         512-474-5757

August 10: LARAS - first round Latin GRAMMY ballots mailed


August 26: Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Opens (Round
2 of 2)

August 31: LARAS - deadline to join to receive final Latin GRAMMY
ballot and to be eligible to purchase telecast tickets


September 1: Awards: Member Online Entry Process Closes


September 6: Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes
(Round 2 of 2)


September 6: ADVOCACY: Recording Arts Day on Capitol Hill

September 8: LARAS - First round Latin GRAMMY ballots due


September 13: Chapter Board Meeting, Austin

September 14: GRAMMY SoundCheck: ACL Festival


September 26: 7th Annual Latin GRAMMY Nominee Press Conference

September 28: GRAMMY SoundCheck: Asleep at the Wheel, Tulsa, OK


October 1: Awards: Deadline to join to receive first round GRAMMY
ballot

October 29: Latin GRAMMY Street Party, Dallas


If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact
our office at 512-328-7997.

All the best,


Fiona

*****************************
Fiona Worrall
Texas Chapter Assistant
The Recording Academy
3601 South Congress Ave., Ste. G-500
Austin, TX 78704
Phone: 512-328-7997
Fax: 512-328-7998
fiona.worrall@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Want to submit a CD to KUT for airplay consideration?


KUT does accept unsolicited CDs. In order to be considered for
airplay, your CD must be available commercially that is, it must be
for sale on the Internet and/or in stores.

If you're wondering whether your music fits our station, take a look
at our weekly chart.  You'll get an idea of the kinds of artists
that get the most spins at KUT.

Please note that KUT does not play demos or singles. Submitted CDs
should be final (artwork) copies of full albums or EPs. It's also
helpful to include a one sheet: a single piece of paper that
includes a short bio, contact information, a song list highlighting
your strongest tracks as well as any that have lyrics that the FCC
wouldn't like us to play on the radio as well as a few press quotes
(if you have them). If you are inquiring about a live appearance on
KUT as well as airplay,
please send us two copies of your CD.

Also, be aware that we receive an enormous amount of music, and we
do not have the resources to provide individual feedback on every CD
we receive. We are unable to return materials sent to us.

Materials should be sent to:
Music Director
KUT Radio
UT Austin
1 University Station, A0704
Austin, TX  78712

Any additional questions should be e-mailed to music@....

http://www.kut.org/site/PageServer?pagename=airplay_consideration_2

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

KUT has a wonderful program called Eklektikos
http://www.kut.org/site/PageServer?pagename=mus_eklektikos

Archives
http://www.kut.org/site/PageServer?pagename=mus_eklektikosarchive
Have you missed any live performances on Eklektikos recently?
Is there one you really loved that you'd like to hear again?

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear Creative Friends,

I thought you might be interested in this Austin Chamber of Commerce
lunch on Wed Aug 16.  Our representative, Lamar Smith,  is the
chairman of the House Intellectual Property Subcommittee.  Their
activities of can greatly affect the long term interests of
copyright owners.

Hope to see you there,

Ande Rasmussen



2006 Congressman Lamar Smith Policy Luncheon

Sponsor:
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------


---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
  Description:
You are invited to hear Congressman Lamar Smith, the Chairman of the
House Intellectual Property Subcommittee, discuss his initiatives on
patent reform, renewable and alternative energy, immigration and
other issues of interest to the business community.

Congressman Smith has represented the residents of the 21st
Congressional District since 1987. The Dean of the Travis County
Congressional Delegation, he has long been an active partner to the
capital area and has represented Travis County since 2002. The
current 21st Congressional District stretches along Interstate 35
from Austin to San Antonio and encompasses one third of the
residents of Travis County as well as portions of Bexar, Comal and
Hays counties and all of Blanco County. Recognized nationally for
his policy leadership on high tech, he has also been instrumental in
securing transportation funding for the Austin region and promoting
legislation of great importance to Central Texas industry.

Registration and Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. Reservations are
required for this event by August 14. Cost is $35. A $5 fee will be
charged for cancellations prior to August 8. NO REFUNDS after August
8. For more information email Cyndi Robles at or call 322.5644.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------

Details:
Date and Time: Aug 16, 2006
11:30 am - 01:00 pm
Location: Omni Austin Hotel - Downtown
700 San Jacinto St.
Austin, TX

For Purchase: Luncheon Ticket (220.927)
NO REFUNDS AFTER AUGUST 8: $35.00
drop by
http://www.austinchamber.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

here's my list of Indie cuts


Ande Rasmussen
http://www.AndeRasmussen.com

Editor and Publisher of IFS
http://www.songwriterblog.com


Song Sites
http://songramp.com/ande
http://www.soundclick.com/anders
http://www.myspace.com/anders
http://www.broadjam.com/ande


Ande's Indie Cuts


John Arthur Martinez  http://www.johnarthurmartinez.net/
CD: Lone Starry Night Label: Dualtone with dist. by SONY

Song: Home Made of Stone cowritten with john Arthur martinez and
Steve Seskin
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=34089

Song: "Lone Starry Night" cowritten with john Arthur martinez
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=22873

"Lone Starry Night" T shirt with lyrics
http://www.theconnextion.com/jam_index.cfm?ArtistID=184

CD: Stand Your Ground
Song: "Married to your Memory" Cowriters: John Arthur Martinez &
Donna Aylor
Song: "Here's to Boys" cowriter: John Arthur Martinez

CD: Live In New England
Song: "Lone Starry Night" cowritten with john Arthur martinez


Abi Tapia
CD: One Foot Out The Door
Song:  "Hand Over Your Heart" Cowriter: Abi Tapia
http://cdbaby.com/cd/abitapia2/from/ande


Wake Eastman
CD: Against the Grain
Song:  "Light at the End of the Tunnel" Cowriter: Wake Eastman
http://cdbaby.com/cd/wakeeastman/from/ande


Jen Rathbun
CD "Coffee, Chocolate & Men"
Song: "Married, Buried or Gay" Cowriter: Jen Rathbun
Song: "Coffee, Chocolate & Men" Cowriter: Jen Rathbun
Song: "Seven Digits" Cowriter: Jen Rathbun
http://cdbaby.com/cd/rathbun2/from/ande


Kristyn Leigh
CD: Glimpse
Song: "Becoming the Me"
Cowriter: Eric Copeland
http://cdbaby.com/cd/kristyn/from/ande


Sienna
CD: Steps
Song: "Come to Me"  Cowriter: Eric Copeland
http://cdbaby.com/cd/siennamusic/from/ande


Adam Donmoyer from Austin TX
CD: Naughty Bits
Song: "Stand Still with Me"  Cowriter: Adam Donmoyer
http://cdbaby.com/cd/donmoyer/from/ande


Ashley Culler
CD: Dream On
Song: "Suddenly"  Cowriters: Donna Aylor & Marinus Vandertogt
Song: "All of Us Together"  Cowriter: Tommy Byrd
http://cdbaby.com/cd/ashleyculler/from/ande


Ronda Wynn from Lebanon, TN
CD: Kid Tunes with Piano Press (compilation CD and song book)
Song: "All of Us Together" Cowriter: Tommy Byrd
http://cdbaby.com/cd/pianopress/from/ande


Sheila Marshall ~ top 10 Nashville Star 2 finalist
CD: Makes Perfect Sense
Song:  Zip Zero
http://cdbaby.com/cd/sheila3/from/ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Want to know how to write a great song?
http://www.sundayherald.com/56981

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

For those of you who missed this great event, here is a recap...


Event Recap

Here, There & Everywhere:
A Conversation with The Beatles' Engineer, Geoff Emerick


Date/Time
Producers & Engineers Event
Saturday, July 15, 2006
5:30 p.m. � 8:00 p.m.


Location
Austin City Limits Studio
2504 B Whitis Avenue,
Austin, TX


Summary

Taking advantage of having music product industry professionals from
60 countries visiting Austin during Summer NAMM, the P&E Committee
of the Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy hosted an exclusive
event with Engineer Geoff Emerick.

The event started off with an acoustic performance by Sarah Sharp
who immediately captured the audience with her beautiful, angelic
vocals.

Geoff Emerick was behind the sound board for some of the greatest
pop music ever made: the Beatles' singles "Strawberry Fields
Forever" and "Penny Lane," and their albums Revolver, Sgt. Pepper's
Lonely Hearts Club Band, Magical Mystery Tour and Abbey Road.  In
addition to his work with the Beatles, Emerick is a four-time
GRAMMY�-winner with a lengthy roster of credits that include
America, Jeff Beck, Split Enz, Supertramp, Paul McCartney, the
Zombies, and Elvis Costello.  The interview was moderated by Chuck
Rainey one of the most recorded bass players in the history of
music. He has toured and/or recorded with artists including King
Curtis, Sam Cooke, Etta James, The Crusaders, The Supremes, Aretha
Franklin, Quincy Jones, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, Rickie Lee
Jones, the Rascals, and Steely Dan to name a few.  The event had 130
attendees, 80 of which were members.  The evening concluded with
Emerick and co-author Howard Massey signing copies of Here, There
and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of The Beatles.

Conclusion

The buzz continues about this well received event.

Consider getting Involved with your local Grammy Chapter.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

If YOU want to take your  songwriting to a whole new level
TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS readers,

I hope this email finds you well.  I'm back from NYC, while I was
there I met with Mary Beth Stone (the NYC NSAI co-coordinator) and
we dropped by the NYC grammy office which was near my hotel. It's
funny how the week just blows by.  I saw the following broadway
productions: Hot Feet, The Wedding Singer, and Hair Spray.  I also
saw American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks perform in a park near 42nd
street.

Tomorrow I have my first Grammy Retreat. I'll give you a report soon

ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

There are several IFS readers who are great enough to be idol
finalists. I also encourage you to encourage someone who you feel
has the talent to be an Idol finalist.

Season 6 Auditions

AMERICAN IDOL begins its search for the next singing superstar and
will host auditions in 7 cities across the country starting this
August!

The quest to become the next American Idol starts now. Auditions for
the sixth edition of AMERICAN IDOL begin in Los Angeles on Tuesday,
Aug. 8, at the Pasadena Rose Bowl.

Men and women 16 to 28 years old on Aug. 6, 2006, and eligible to
work in the United States are welcome to audition. Restrictions
apply � a full list of FAQs and Release Forms will be posted
shortly. Additionally, coming soon, we will have video guides to
audition cities, and photos and videos from every audition.


AUDITION INFORMATION

Los Angeles, CA
Pasadena Rose Bowl
Tuesday, August 8, 2006

San Antonio, TX
Alamodome
Friday, August 11, 2006

East Rutherford, NJ
Continental Airlines Arena
Monday, August 14, 2006

Birmingham, AL
BJCC
Monday, August 21, 2006

Memphis, TN
FedExForum
Sunday, September 3, 2006

Minneapolis, MN
Target Center
Friday, September 8, 2006

Seattle, WA
KeyArena
Tuesday, September 19, 2006


http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/

http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/faqs.htm

http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/rules.htm

http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/info.htm

http://www.idolonfox.com/auditions/20060711season6release.pdf

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's a quote from a Nashville Star producer about Auditioning

I sent an email to the producer thanking him for his time in OKC. He
asked that I share the following.

"Do me a favor - if anyone on the board ever asks advice on what they
should do at auditions - please stress to them that they should be a
STAR right when they step up on stage for their 30 second audition! I
wish I could tell every peson that. If you have a great voice - let
us
know right away - come out of the gate on fire. Make us notice you,
because in 30 seconds, we don't have time to search for that star
inside of you."


Ande's advice on Auditioning for Reality shows

1) Be Great

2) Let your personality shine

3) If you're talented, costumes aren't important,
Rely on your talent.   Dress for comfort.

4) if you have no talent and are just trying to get on the show,
gimmicks could be critical.

5) Be Prepared
Know the lyrics
Know the melody

6) Slay them from the start

7) Be outstanding and stand out.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NSAI pro member JERRY VANDIVER (www.jerryvandiver.com), whose cuts
include "Athens Grease" (Phil Vassar) and "For A Little While" (Tim
McGraw), made this unsolicited comment regarding our upcoming
workshop (Sunday, 7/30) with Bob Regan and Liz Hengber:

I just want to put my 2 cents in here to say that I've done
gatherings with both these writers and they are absolutely great.
Bob is a wealth of knowledge and info and Liz's Do's and Don't's of
Music Row is second to none.  I have her sheet on my refrigerator.

$40 is a bargain for these two.  You'd spend 20 times that much
flying to Nashville, getting a car, hotel and spinning your wheels
and not get as much info as you will out of this little workshop.

Have a great one.


THERE'S STILL SPACE!
Sunday, July 30th, Noon to 6 PM
520 Eighth Ave. (between 36th & 37th Sts.), 16th Floor

NSAI, ASCAP, SGA and NAPM members:    $40
All others:    $50
Please bring cash or a check payable to "NSAI."

Come join us for a fabulous afternoon of information and inspiration
with:

LIZ HENGBER


The Dos and Donts of Music Row


Liz perspective is so critical for the New York songwriter.
Originally from Brooklyn, she has forged a successful career for
herself in Nashville as a songwriter with four number ones for Reba
and other chartbusters like
Shes More for Andy Griggs and
Unconditional for Clay Davidsonand now can guide us on how to avoid
some of the mistakes she made in transforming from an outsider to an
insider.

  BOB REGAN

Great Ideas


Bob also came to Nashville from far away (California) and has had a
significant impact on Music Row.  With hits as wide-ranging as
Your Everything (Keith Urban),
Busy Man (Billy Ray Cyrus) and
Soon (Tanya Tucker),
he contends that strong, fresh song ideas may possibly be the most
important ingredient in becoming a success as a Nashville songwriter
this will be his focus at the workshop.




CRITIQUES

In our previous announcements, we mentioned that critiques would be
guaranteed to the first ten NSAI members to sign up--that quota has
been met.  Additional songs, if time permits, will be chosen at
random, as follows:  first from NSAI members and then from all
others.  Naturally, we will try to accommodate as many people as
possible.  In anticipation of this, please bring your song, either
on CD (with the track number clearly marked) or cassette (cued to
your song), along with two typed lyric sheets.  Both your recording
and your lyric sheets must be clearly marked with your name and the
name of the song.  The lyric sheets should be folded and attached to
the back of the recording with a rubber band.  Following these
simple rules will help us speed along the process, so we can
maximize the number of songs critiqued.  Sorry, at this workshop, we
cannot accommodate live or live-to-track presentations.

Regional Co-ordinators:

Randi    nashrand@...
Mary Beth    stonepulse@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Memphis lyricist Michael Porter is offering a two-session workshop
for the
Memphis Songwriter's Association.

He promises to make your drive worthwhile! But it is a two
Saturday workshop with homework during the week.

I call it the

"Who? Whose? To Whom? What? Where? When? Why? And How?"
of Songwriting.

It's a jam-packed eight hour workshop.

I have put it together from various sources I've compiled over the
years as well as added some creative spins of my own. The
concentration is on lyrics and NOT music.

Plus, I've added some exercises on how to expand your creative
thinking, which can apply to any endeavor.

I'll be conducting it on
Saturday August 19th &
Saturday August 26th from
10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
We're having it at a local coffee house / restaurant that is very
friendly to local writers and performers.

MO's (stands for Memphis Originals) @
3521 Walker Avenue in the
Highland Street District near the University of Memphis.

Rates are as follows:
$20.00 MSA Members & Students
$30.00 Non-Members
Optional $18.00 Lunch For Both Sessions

MO's has great food but if you don't wish to pay for the optional
lunch special, we'll have a 30 minute lunch break. There are plenty
of fast food and pizza places in the area.

Anyone interested should call MSA President
Philip Beasley at
626-4127 for reservations.

Any IFS subscriber can email me directly for questions but I cannot
make their reservations. I want to keep it small and have lots of
interaction so we will probably max it out at around 20 - 22 people.

Plus, there will be a homework assignment during the week that all
participants must complete and have ready! I will break everyone into
songwriting teams for that.

This workshop is NOT for the faint of heart. You must be serious
about
your songwriting. I may even give out grades and there will be
NO BELL  CURVE AND NO EXTRA CREDIT!

As a U of M college professor, I am used to talking tough...

Places are limited so if interested, please act ASAP.

Thanks

MP
wmporter@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS

Joani Tabor is looking for uptempo contemporary Christian and praise
songs.
www.JoaniTabor.org
GJTabor@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

If YOU want to take your  songwriting to a whole new level
TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS readers

since I don't perform I'd be HONORED if you'd consider trying out,
performing or recording one or a few of mysongs
please drop by:
http://songramp.com/ande
browse through my catalog and
let me know if you hear any you love

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  The Texas Chapter & The Producers & Engineers Wing of
The Recording Academy
Present:

Here, There & Everywhere:
A Conversation with The Beatles Engineer,
Geoff Emerick

Moderated by Chuck Rainey

Austin City Limits Studio
2504 B Whitis Avenue, Austin, TX

Saturday, July 15, 2006
5:30 p.m.  - 8:00 p.m.

Special musical performance by Sarah Sharp

Engineer Geoff Emerick was behind the sound board for some of the
greatest pop music ever made: the Beatles singles Strawberry Fields
Forever and Penny Lane, and their albums Revolver, Sgt. Peppers
Lonely Hearts Club Band, Magical Mystery Tour and Abbey Road. Just
19 when he began engineering for the Beatles, Emerick quickly became
renowned for creating groundbreaking sounds. A maverick who helped
bring record engineering into the modern era, he challenged
tradition and developed many of the recording techniques that todays
music-makers take for granted. In addition to his work with the
Beatles, Emerick is a four-time GRAMMY-winner with a lengthy roster
of credits that include America, Jeff Beck, Split Enz, Supertramp,
Paul McCartney, the Zombies, and Elvis Costello. His book, Here,
There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of The Beatles,
(co-authored with Howard Massey), has just been released on Gotham
Books.

Chuck Rainey is one of the most recorded bass players in the history
of music. He has toured and/or recorded with artists including  King
Curtis, Sam Cooke, Etta James, The Crusaders, The Supremes, Aretha
Franklin, Quincy Jones, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, Rickie Lee
Jones, the Rascals, and Steely Dan, to name a few. His unique bass
lines have accented hundreds of commercials and television and film
soundtracks, and throughout his career he has amassed numerous
composing, arranging and production credits. Rainey is also active
in music education as a textbook writer, magazine columnist,
teacher, and creator of instructional videos.
The Recording Academy, Texas Chapter invites you this very exclusive
evening.

Complimentary admission for Recording Academy members
Guests and non-members $50

Join as a member and receive complimentary admission

Please RSVP to 512-328-8176 or email texas@...

Hors doeuvres from Ranch 616

Hosted bar compliments of Capitol Beverage Company and Blackstone
Wine

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's my

Notes from ASG's 7/11 meeting featuring NSAI director Bart Herbison

  I attended ASG's Tuesday 7/11 meeting at Threadgills south in
Austin.

First there was an open mic from 6:30 - 8:00, each writer performed
3 songs.  Wake Eastman was one of the performers.

A little after 8:00 the program began ASG board member Brent Allen
introduced NSAI's director Bart Herbison and songwriter Danny Wells,
both sat on the Stage.  NSAI's development director Erika Wollam
Nichols sat in the audience.  Bart spoke a few opening comments.

Danny "Check Yes or No" Wells performed his George Strait
hit, "Check Yes or NO" that he cowrote with Dana Hunt.

Then Bart told us how NSAI got started in 1967 when there weren't
many songwriters in Nashville.  How they worked to get record
companies to put songwriters names on records. How NSAI now has
workshops in 120 cities and 5 countries.  Then he explained the
history of recordings and copyrights. Back in 1909 when Edison's
Ediphone Company was the first record company.  Cylinders sold for
$2.00, they were an expensive novelty.the company attempted to
exclude paying royalties to songwriters and then songwriters earned
a penny for each cyllinder sold.  One 200th of the revenue.

Bart said he's the biggest songwriters fan and he's here to tell the
songwriters story.

NSAI is working to protect songwriters rights in Washington.  NSAI
has gotten legislation passed and blocked.  He said NSAI has had
over 2,000 sit down visits in Congress in the last 5 years, usually
him and a songwriter or 2 in those meetings. Our Texas Congressman,
Lamar Smith is the Chairman of Courts, the Internet, and
Intellectual Property Subcommittee of the House Judiciary
Committee.  This means he's the go-to-guy for copyright protection
legislation.  http://lamarsmith.house.gov

He told us about Eldred vs Ashcroft, NSAI files and "amicus brief"
with the US Supreme Court in a case that determined how long
songwriters and their heirs own copyrights.  The case threatened
Article 1 Section 8

They made references to entries in James Madison's diaries

NSAI was instrumental in getting the "Songwriters Capital Gains Tax
Equity Act" legislation passed. It allows songwriters who sell their
publishing to be treated the same as publishers. It was signed May
17th, 2007 and will be effective Jan 1st 2007

He said Mechs pay 9.1 cents and
Airplay pays about 6 cents a spin.

He then told the story of how the illegal downloading companies were
trying to pass legislation to slash what they were required to pay
songwriters.  They were about to get away with it. NSAI sent a group
of songwriters to washington including Mark Allen Springer.  Mark
told a congressman his story and how songwriters get paid.  The
congressman said, Y'all changed my vote.

The congressman who introduced the bill said, "I withdraw my bill."

He said the entire way songwriters get paid is about to change.

He said "your hill billy cousins" in Nashville are working on
legislation that affects how songwriters get paid from Satellite
radio.  Satellite radios allow people to stream music and also
record 55 hours of music, so songwriters should be paid a
performance royalty and a mechanical. He said songwriters will
receive a % of total revs and ad $.

He said that discounting mech rates is about to go away.

NSAI working to get income averaging for songwriters
Songwriters have years with no hits and low income then when they
have a hit they pay taxes at maximum rates.  Other creative
professions are able negotiate contracts to receive payments over
several years rather than all of it at once. Which allows them to
pay lower taxes.

Songwriting is the only profession where how much we get paid is
controlled by law

There are 535 votes in congress,
Tennessee has 9 congressmen
1 out of 11 are from Texas
1 out of 9 are from California.

He offered to create Austin Night at the Bluebird
He said, "If y'all want that, (it's) Done

He offered for ASG to send a CD with 12 of best songs and he'd
invite A&R, producers and industry players to come to his office to
hear them.

He said I may be contacting y'all to write a letter.

Bart said he intends to come back.

They had a brief Q&A session

The talk ended, they held a raffle for an ASG member to attend an
NSAI song camp

Then Danny Wells performed his Rascal Flatts hit "These Days"

One of the brochures they handed out provided info on recapturing
copyrights.
I'll send you the articles if you like.
A person from this company wrote one of the articles
http://legacyworkscopyright.com/creator.html


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Just wanted to share some good news with you.  The Unisong
International
Songwriting Contest just announced that my song "Danger!!" was
selected as a 1st
place winner in the World/Reggae category.  In addition to this, my
song "Freaks
Of A Feather" was selected as a top 20 winner in the R&B/Hip-Hop
category.  You
can see the posted results at www.unisong.com  While I have your
attention,
allow me to thank you for all that you are doing with and for
songwriters all
over this nation.  Your newsletter has been true to its name as I
have been
inspired with each issue.  Having been in the music industry for
over 40 years
with very little compensation, I am truly ecstatic about this great
news
concerning my songs.  By the way, in May of this year I had two
songs signed to
publishing deals by All Things Music inc. in Miami.  Guess I am
having a very
good year huh?

Best Regards,

Stoneman
www.stonemanavenue.com


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's some Important Recording Academy / Grammy Dates and Events


July 15:
"Here, There & Everywhere: An Evening With Beatles Engineer
Geoff Emerick" at ACL Studio in Austin

August 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Opens

August 22:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Opens (Round 2 of 2)

September 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Closes

September 6:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes (Round 2 of 2)

September 6:
ADVOCACY: Recording Arts Day on Capitol Hill

September 26:
7th Annual Latin GRAMMY Nominee Press Conference

September 29:
Awards: Last day to join The Academy and receive voting ballot

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The 2nd Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise is a event where aspiring
songwriters attend a songwriting conference aboard the Carnival
Funship "Ecstasy".  Participants will hear discussions on the craft
and business of songwriting from some of the most successful
professional songwriters, publishers, and A&R reps in the music
industry.  Participants will also receive opportunities to pitch
their songs to these pro's while on board ship.

The cruise will leave from Galveston Texas on
December 2nd, 2006,
for a 5-day cruise to Cozumel and Progresso in the eastern Carribean.

Songwriters from New York, Ohio, Michigan, Louisiana, Pennsylvania,
Oklahoma, Utah, Tennessee, California, and Texas, as well as
Australia, Canada, and the US Virgin Islands, have already reserved
their cabin for this event.  Put your name on a cabin too while
they're still available.

Some of the confirmed attending Music Industry Pro's include:

Ted Lowe, President-ChoiceTracks, Inc., Los Angeles.
Placements include spots for "16 Blocks" and "Take The Lead" movie
trailers, Ad music for clients such as Coors and Honda; Television
shows including " Without A Trace", "Ghost
Whisperer", "Numb3rs", "Las Vegas", "Bones", "The
Shield", "America's Next Top Model", and extensive placements on
numerous MTV Network's shows.

Norman De Vasure, Owner-Sunset Music/Norman Productions, Nashville.
Placed Tracy Byrd's mega-hit;
Keeper of the Stars &
Cuts with Montgomery Gentry, Ty Herndon, George Strait, Reba
McEntire, Jeff Bates, and many more.

Mike Geiger, Hit songwriter, Nashville, Penned Niel McCoy's "City
Put The Country Back In Me" and George Strait's "Adalida", and many
more.

Brian Rawlings, Vice President-Creative, Disney Music Publishing, Los
Angeles Current credits include the platinum "High School Musical"
soundtrack, the "Shaggy Dog" soundtrack, Santana featuring Steven
Tyler "Just Feel Better", and responsible for cuts on Aly and AJ,
Jesse McCartney, JoJo, Lonestar, and Travis Tritt. (to name a few).

Monte Warden, Hit Songwriter, Austin, Texas.
Warden's biggest success in recent years has been as a professional
songwriter, landing cuts in several movies and television shows, as
well as with artists like Kelly Willis, Patty Loveless, George
Jones, Bruce Robison, Travis Tritt, and George Strait, to name a
few. Warden co-wrote Strait's smash, "Desperately".

Perry Howard
Songwriter/Publisher Relations BMI, Nashville

Jason Blume, Hit Songwriter/Songwriting Author With credits for
writing songs that have been on albums with more than 50 million
sales and the author of best-selling songwriting books, Jason will
headline our teaching faculty. Click Here for Jasons Bio and
Credits. Jason will speak on a variety of topics regarding the craft
and business of songwriting and expand on topics presented at last
years conference.

Carie Long, A & R Representative, Sony/BMG, Nashville

Max T. Barnes, Hit Songwriter, BRO 'N SIS Music, Nashville Wrote his
first hit song at the age of 19, Vern Gosdin's "Way Down Deep".
Since then, he's had cuts with John Anderson, John Schneider, Randy
Travis, and Joe Diffe.  Max T. also wrote the #1 hit "Thats How Your
Love Makes Me Feel" by Diamond Rio, and Colin Raye's CMA Song of the
Year Nominee "Love Me". Max T. is in business now with BRO N' SIS
MUSIC , who copyrights hundreds of huge standards from "I'll Be Home
for Christmas" to "Back in Black". His production experience comes
from 24 years in the studio as a guitar player and songwriter, as
well as producing Jeff Carson, Rodney Atkins, Blake and Brian and
Amy Dally for Curb Records and The Marie Sisters for Universal.

Cabin prices start at $476 per person.  Enter the Texas Songwriters
Cruise Songwriting Contest for a chance to win a free cabin,
conference, and transportation to and from the cruise within the
continental US.

Visit
www.txsongwriterscruise.com
for more info.  We'll see you there!

Lealean Peace
founder - Texas Songwriters Cruise

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Rights to song sold on ebay
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2006/07/11/rights-to-song-sold-on-ebay/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Web Site to Offer Cheap Licensed Music for Amateur Filmmakers
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,202882,00.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

update from
http://www.myspace.com/evienicolemusic

     Okay okay, here it is....I got the axe....no go....I made it to
the top 23 and out of that last group they chose the 11 that are to
be on the show and live in a house together..  It was an amazing
experience but  freakin draining. A major roller coaster ride.
Psychological testing and interview, reality interview where I sat 3
feet in front of a camera and three frat like boys who asked me
silly questions and picked on me to try and I don't know bring out
the "real Evie." But that was actually pretty fun.  What
else....meetings with our lawyer to try and understand all the
friggin contracts that were ridiculous. Singing for ABC execs and
Interscope execs and the production company people...that was
awesome though.  I felt so important because they were like sitting
there and  all they were there to do was listen to me. me me me....
(  : Ummm...I met some freakin incredible people there.  Technically
we weren't allowed to hang with the other contestants but some of us
just couldn't deal with that and sort bent the rules a bit.  There
was an amazing restaurant and bar on the top floor of this hotel and
since we had no transportation and were always "on-call," we
couldn't really go anywhere for very long.  So we'd head up to the
bar daily and a few of us would sit with one chair between us and
look staraight ahead like we were talking to the bartender but were
really talking to each other.  Then after a couple drinks we'd get
sloppy and just say screw it let's have fun.  The ABC guys were so
so amazing though and tolerant and encouraging and I just fell in
love with them. They had to put up with a bunch of nutcases all
week. I know some of us will keep in touch and we'll definitely
never forget that week.  I am so thrilled for the folks that did
make it...A few of 'em I really got attached to and it will be so
freakin exciting to watch them on tv every week!! ABC starting July
18th 2 hour season premiere.  A couple from Nashville although I'm
not allowed to name names, made it and I just wish them all the
best.  And 2 boys who I just fell in love with and are freakin
hysterical, will I'm sure steal all the girls' hearts....so watch
watch!!! 8 PM I think, there's previews on all the time.  And thanks
to EVERYBODY who supported me through the whole ordeal.  I'm doing
totally fine, I feel like what's meant to be will be.

Chuck Cannon told me the coolest thing the night I found out I
didn't get on.  He said, 'go look at yourself in the mirror and
say, '"okay....now watch this."'

  Signin off.....

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

new contact info for Galen Breen at
www.thegatorhole.com
I've moved to a new location.

Galen Breen
1315 Bundy Drive
Smyrna, TN  37167

615-223-6319
galenbreen@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

Tell me What you like about IFS?

Do you have any success stories because you acted on INFO you found
in IFS?

If YOU want to take your
songwriting to a whole new level
TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Did you know in the IFS issues that have
SSS in the subject field
SSS means Singer Searching for Songs
those are pitch opportunities

where basically you send the singer an email that says

~ ~ ~

hello

I read in IFS that you're looking for songs
please drop by
http://songramp.com/ande
browse through my catalog and
let me know if you hear any you love

Ande

~ ~ ~

You could also name specific songs for an artist to check out

here's an example of a blurb and my response to the artist

~ ~ ~

From: a really good boy singer
Date: Jul 9, 2006 2:28 PM

Well I like what I hear. I would love to hear some other ballads you
may have. Power pop ballads....for a boyband. Something with an
acoustic guitar .... give me a message back when you can. I have a
major deal going on, on my end and we're searching for songs.
Talk to you soon!

~ ~ ~

my response to him was

hello singer,

I have several for you to check out
there's a piano vocal of "eventually" featured on my myspace site
and also a pop demo of
"Vividly" also on my myspace site

I have another pop demo of Eventually which you can find at
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=12740
Alex Anders from LA produced this demo
his brother is Adam Anders who cowrote "More than That for the
Backstreet boys and Alex produced many of Adams demos

Tumble
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=12547

you woke up my heart
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=12729

are you there yet
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=15006

guards at the gate of my heart
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=14393

If you wanna rock out I've got a really good rock song called
"Aint Gonna Stop"
here's the rough version
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=31697

here's a Kiss like demo
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=32584

I have other songs at
http://SongRamp.com/ande
browse through and you might hear something you love

let me know if you hear anything you love

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The thing is if you have great songs and let the artist know about
them, they might find a few they love.
PITCH PITCH PITCH

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you great.

I finally got around to loading a few of my pics up on
www.MySpace.com/anders

My Friend john Arthur now has a myspace site
please send him a friend invite
http://www.myspace.com/johnarthurmartinez


Wed June 28th I went to the NUTTY BROWN in Dripping Springs and met
Sandy Knox and saw the BomShels perform.  They were truly terrific.
The lead singer Buffy Lawson is a dear friend of Sandy's. It was
wonderful to meet her
www.myspace.com/bomshel
Both are featured in my TOP 24 on
www.MySpace.com/anders


Sat July 15th - 22nd NYC
I'm going to be in NYC,
I'll be there with my family, I don't have my whole daily schedule
mapped out yet, but I'd love to meet IFS readers or catch one of
your gigs. Please send me an email
in the subject field please write
IFS NYC
my cell phone is 512-217-2728


Friday Aug 4 - Tuesday August 8th I'm going to be near Stanford CA
at the FINA world Masters championships
http://www.2006finamasters.org/v2/
I'll be spending most of my time at the stanford pool but if you are
an IFS reader or one of my swimblog readers I'd love to meet meet
you.
Please send me an email
in the subject field please write
IFS CA
my cell phone is 512-217-2728


mary beth stone songwriter/singer
nsai, nyc regional co-ordinator
stonepulse@...
let me know about the following gig

I'm hoping to catch Jeffery Steele Rivers Rutherford, and Bob
Dipiero on the 15th
July 15 - New York City, NY
Joe's Pub
Country Music Association Songwriter's Series
show times 6:30 PM & 9:30 PM
$20.00
For tickets, please call: 212-239-6202


"constant and determined effort that breaks down all resistance and
sweeps away all obstacles."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

texas@... writes:
The Texas Chapter & The Producers & Engineers Wing of
The Recording Academy
Present:

Here, There & Everywhere:
A Conversation with The Beatles Engineer,
Geoff Emerick

Moderated by Chuck Rainey

Austin City Limits Studio
2504 B Whitis Avenue, Austin, TX

Saturday, July 15, 2006
5:30 p.m.  - 8:00 p.m.

Special musical performance by Sarah Sharpe

Engineer Geoff Emerick was behind the sound board for some of the
greatest pop music ever made: the Beatles singles Strawberry Fields
Forever and Penny Lane, and their albums Revolver, Sgt. Peppers
Lonely Hearts Club Band, Magical Mystery Tour and Abbey Road. Just
19 when he began engineering for the Beatles, Emerick quickly became
renowned for creating groundbreaking sounds. A maverick who helped
bring record engineering into the modern era, he challenged
tradition and developed many of the recording techniques that todays
music-makers take for granted. In addition to his work with the
Beatles, Emerick is a four-time GRAMMY-winner with a lengthy roster
of credits that include America, Jeff Beck, Split Enz, Supertramp,
Paul McCartney, the Zombies, and Elvis Costello. His book, Here,
There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of The Beatles,
(co-authored with Howard Massey), has just been released on Gotham
Books.
Chuck Rainey is one of the most recorded bass players in the history
of music. He has toured and/or recorded with artists including  King
Curtis, Sam Cooke, Etta James, The Crusaders, The Supremes, Aretha
Franklin, Quincy Jones, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, Rickie Lee
Jones, the Rascals, and Steely Dan, to name a few. His unique bass
lines have accented hundreds of commercials and television and film
soundtracks, and throughout his career he has amassed numerous
composing, arranging and production credits. Rainey is also active
in music education as a textbook writer, magazine columnist,
teacher, and creator of instructional videos.
The Recording Academy, Texas Chapter invites you this very exclusive
evening.

Complimentary admission for Recording Academy members
Guests and non-members $50

Join as a member and receive complimentary admission

Please RSVP to 512-328-8176 or email texas@...

Hors doeuvres from Ranch 616
Hosted bar compliments of Capitol Beverage Company and Blackstone
Wine

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Songwriter Opportunity

By: Editorial Dept
E-mail: writings@...

Company: Blue Mountain Arts, Inc
Address: PO Box 1007 Boulder CO 80306

Subject: Lyrics for Greeting Cards

Comment:
Blue Mountain Arts is interested in reviewing writings suitable for
publication on greeting cards. We are looking for highly original
and creative submissions on friendship, family, special occasions,
positive living, and other topics one person might want to share
with another person. We do not accept rhyming verse. Submissions may
also be considered for inclusion in book anthologies.
We pay $300 for all rights and $50 if your poem is used only in an
anthology.
To request a copy of our writer's guidelines,
please send a blank email to
writings@...
with
Send Me Guidelines
in the subject line, or
write to us at:
Blue Mountain Arts, Inc.
Editorial Department
Post Office Box 1007 Boulder, CO 80306.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

E-mail: Leprechaun_0317@...

Subject: Vocalist in need of songs

Comment:
Hi i am 18 and just started thinking about getting myself out there.
the problem is, i cant play any instrument (well, a little piano)
and i cant really write songs. if anyone can help me as far as songs
go that would be wonderful. i have been singing since i was 8. i can
sing almost anything but i do best with alternative rock, country,
bluegrass, things like that. my favorite band whos songs i love to
sing is nickel creek. if you even know who they are, if you have
songs along that line i wouldnt hesitate to listen. but other things
are fine too. im willing to try anything. but id like to hear even
just a demo for free. not really interested if i have to pay before
ive even heard the song. thank you so much! hope i get some replies
soon. Erin

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A note from Austin Songwriters Group

Good afternoon ASG members, supporters and friends!

It's VP Brent Allen here and I just wanted to briefly remind you
about the upcoming special event we have going on next
Tuesday evening, July 11th at
Threadgill's World Headquarters
(301 West Riverside Drive -
Austin, Texas 78704 -
(512) 472-9304).

I wanted to be sure you were aware of this at least one more time,
due to its importance to the songwriting community as a whole.

ASG is proudly presenting

Bart Herbison
Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI)
Executive Director

Erika Wollam Nichols
NSAI Director of Development and

James Dean Hicks
hit singer/songwriter
(www.jamesdeanhicks.com/discography.htm)

who will be joining us that evening for a workshop you really should
not miss. We'll kick it off with an open mic opportunity, so be sure
to bring your instruments if you'd like to play for a bit on the
Threadgill's stage. Their presentation will begin at approximately
8:00 pm, and they will be here to present some very important
information concerning new legislation in regards to your
copyrights, as well as Q & A afterwards.  Please bring your songs
and your questions for this very rare opportunity.

That's all for now, my friends. Remember to take time out for
yourselves and each other whenever you can and support your fellow
songwriters around town. You never know where it may lead you.
Network, network, network! If you see any of us out, be sure and say
hello!

Take care and we'll see you Tuesday evening!

-brent

Brent Allen
Vice President
www.austinsongwritersgroup.com
brentallen@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Consider entering the DSA 2006 Song Contest
http://dallassongwriters.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's some Important
Recording Academy / Grammy
Grammy.com Dates and Events

July 26
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes (Round 1 of 2)

July 15:
"Here, There & Everywhere: An Evening With Beatles Engineer
Geoff Emerick" at ACL Studio in Austin

August 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Opens

August 22:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Opens (Round 2 of 2)

September 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Closes

September 6:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes (Round 2 of 2)

September 6:
ADVOCACY: Recording Arts Day on Capitol Hill

September 26:
7th Annual Latin GRAMMY Nominee Press Conference

September 29:
Awards: Last day to join The Academy and receive voting ballot

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

allison sattinger is going to be one of Will Ferrell's backup
singers at the ESPY awards, July 16th
http://www.myspace.com/allisonsattinger

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Check out Kelly Sweet
I love her We Are One song
http://www.myspace.com/kellysweetmusic

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever checked out
Donna Galbraith's songs
I think she is a wonderful songwriter and singer
http://songramp.com/donnagalbraith

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Anyone ever heard of
www.chilenmusic.com
what are your thoughts?

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I'm super impressed with Gregory Watton's
Accomplishments and MySpace site
He's made himself a MAGNET for artists
http://www.myspace.com/prosongwriter

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever dropped by
http://www.myspace.com/143records

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ASK ANDE


LAURA asked me
In a message dated 7/7/2006

I had a question...
i want to give it a shot a being a songwriter,
is there a process to it, or
do you just submit your songs in hopes it gets noticed, or
hopefully not stolen? I have no idea where to begin...
It wouldn't be Christian songwriting, more of love songs, breakup
stuff, life, etc... or who know, maybe ill give it a shot in
Christian music... but where does one start when they just decided
they want to do this as a career? (ive been writing poetry, and
stories for years, but not songwriting, so i am clueless)

Laura

~ ~ ~

my reply was

hello Laura,

nice to hear from you

the first thing I suggest is don't get into songwriting for the
money, it's really hard to come by and might take years to get any
cash flowing from songs you've written

Write songs because you have to write
because you can't not write

if you want to write commercial songs
you must strive to be great


the first thing I suggest you do is study:

+ read books about commercial songwriting
start with Jason Blume and Sheila Davis

+ go to conferences

+ study the kind of songs you want to write

+ Listen to songs and write out the lyrics by hand

+ search for incredible song ideas

+ if you just do lyrics you must find talented collaborators

+ write every day

+ begin a songwriting journal

+ begin a list of song ideas and titles


I've also written about much of the songwriting process in my ezine
drop by
http://songwriterblog.com
and read through the message archive
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/DIFS/messages

I suggest you read every message

It's gonna take a while but
you will know much more about songwriting after you do that

also drop by just plainfolks and read many of those threads
http://www.justplainfolks.org/cgi-bin/forumdisplay.cgi?
action=topics&number=2
http://www.justplainfolks.org/cgi-bin/forumdisplay.cgi?
action=topics&number=4

http://www.justplainfolks.org/cgi-bin/forumdisplay.cgi?
action=topics&forum=Lyric+Feedback+Forum+3&number=112

post your lyrics online
critique the lyrics of other writers

My suggestion is, if you're good at something else, do that,
build a career, earn a living, have health insurance, and create a
retirement then write songs and persue music on the side.

good luck

hope this helps

ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The 2nd Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise is a event where aspiring
songwriters attend a songwriting conference aboard the Carnival
Funship "Ecstasy".  Participants will hear discussions on the craft
and business of songwriting from some of the most successful
professional songwriters, publishers, and A&R reps in the music
industry.  Participants will also receive opportunities to pitch
their songs to these pro's while on board ship.

The cruise will leave from Galveston Texas on December 2nd, 2006,
for a 5-day cruise to Cozumel and Progresso in the eastern Carribean.

Songwriters from New York, Ohio, Michigan, Louisiana, Pennsylvania,
Oklahoma, Utah, Tennessee, California, and Texas, as well as
Australia, Canada, and the US Virgin Islands, have already reserved
their cabin for this event.  Put your name on a cabin too while
they're still available.

Some of the confirmed attending Music Industry Pro's include:

Ted Lowe, President-ChoiceTracks, Inc., Los Angeles.
Placements include spots for "16 Blocks" and "Take The Lead" movie
trailers, Ad music for clients such as Coors and Honda; Television
shows including " Without A Trace", "Ghost
Whisperer", "Numb3rs", "Las Vegas", "Bones", "The
Shield", "America's Next Top Model", and extensive placements on
numerous MTV Network's shows.

Norman De Vasure, Owner-Sunset Music/Norman Productions, Nashville.
Placed Tracy Byrd's mega-hit;
Keeper of the Stars &
Cuts with Montgomery Gentry, Ty Herndon, George Strait, Reba
McEntire, Jeff Bates, and many more.

Mike Geiger, Hit songwriter, Nashville, Penned Niel McCoy's "City
Put The Country Back In Me" and George Strait's "Adalida", and many
more.

Brian Rawlings, Vice President-Creative, Disney Music Publishing, Los
Angeles Current credits include the platinum "High School Musical"
soundtrack, the "Shaggy Dog" soundtrack, Santana featuring Steven
Tyler "Just Feel Better", and responsible for cuts on Aly and AJ,
Jesse McCartney, JoJo, Lonestar, and Travis Tritt. (to name a few).

Monte Warden, Hit Songwriter, Austin, Texas.
Warden's biggest success in recent years has been as a professional
songwriter, landing cuts in several movies and television shows, as
well as with artists like Kelly Willis, Patty Loveless, George
Jones, Bruce Robison, Travis Tritt, and George Strait, to name a
few. Warden co-wrote Strait's smash, "Desperately".

Perry Howard
Songwriter/Publisher Relations BMI, Nashville

Jason Blume, Hit Songwriter/Songwriting Author With credits for
writing songs that have been on albums with more than 50 million
sales and the author of best-selling songwriting books, Jason will
headline our teaching faculty. Click Here for Jasons Bio and
Credits. Jason will speak on a variety of topics regarding the craft
and business of songwriting and expand on topics presented at last
years conference.

Carie Long, A & R Representative, Sony/BMG, Nashville

Max T. Barnes, Hit Songwriter, BRO 'N SIS Music, Nashville Wrote his
first hit song at the age of 19, Vern Gosdin's "Way Down Deep".
Since then, he's had cuts with John Anderson, John Schneider, Randy
Travis, and Joe Diffe.  Max T. also wrote the #1 hit "Thats How Your
Love Makes Me Feel" by Diamond Rio, and Colin Raye's CMA Song of the
Year Nominee "Love Me". Max T. is in business now with BRO N' SIS
MUSIC , who copyrights hundreds of huge standards from "I'll Be Home
for Christmas" to "Back in Black". His production experience comes
from 24 years in the studio as a guitar player and songwriter, as
well as producing Jeff Carson, Rodney Atkins, Blake and Brian and
Amy Dally for Curb Records and The Marie Sisters for Universal.

Cabin prices start at $476 per person.  Enter the Texas Songwriters
Cruise Songwriting Contest for a chance to win a free cabin,
conference, and transportation to and from the cruise within the
continental US.

Visit
www.txsongwriterscruise.com
for more info.  We'll see you there!

Lealean Peace
founder - Texas Songwriters Cruise

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

friends

my wife asked me the following

Can you help me think of songs that go with the theme persistence?
Megan may use it as her theme for this year's show.

Songs like
the theme song from Rocky,
We are the champions,
climb every mountain?...
just songs about succeeding .

Can you think of any incredible songs on the topic
Please send your list to

AndeRasmussen@...
in the subject field write
IFS SUCCESS

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I went with my wife to get her hair cut
as I waited in the lobby there was an article about
Linda Septien in the July 2006 Texas Monthly Mag

http://www.texasmonthly.com/preview/2006-07-01/feature4

http://www.theseptiengroup.com/index.html

http://www.theseptiengroup.com/about_us/linda.html

http://www.dallasobserver.com/Issues/2006-03-02/news/feature.html




THE SEPTIEN MUSIC CONFERENCE FOR SINGERS AND SONGWRITERS DALLAS,
TEXAS.
"The New Age of Music and Self-Promotion!  It's Working!"
August 25th-27th, 2006
Embassy Suites Hotel Dallas-Frisco
ONLY $189 if you register before July 15th!
INCLUDES $75 KEYNOTE DINNER FREE!!!


Special classes for Parents of Young Artists! ONLY $100!


* Experts from Disney will share what TV and record companies are
really looking for in young artists!

* Get tips for getting gigs, booking tours and managing your
musicians!

* Learn how to encourage children without pushing them too hard!
University experts who specialize in performance anxiety and the
psychology  of young performers will be teaching invaluable tips for
life!

* Getting a manager when you are not a paid performer!

* Music contracts--What you need to know and how to negotiate the
best deal!

COMPETITION INFORMATION

Over 20,000 in Prizes!!!


SINGER competition!

WINNERS WILL RECEIVE:
1st Place
  $1,000 Cash!
6 months of voice lessons at the SEPTIEN CENTER FOR ARTISTS TRAINING
1 private consultation and voice lesson with Linda Septien
1 private consultation with a panelist of your choice
2-song vocal demo at Septien Recording Studios
A Feature story on the Septien Music Conference Website

1st Runner-up
6 voice lessons at the SEPTIEN CENTER FOR ARTISTS TRAINING
1-song demo at Septien Recording Studios
1 voice lesson with Linda Septien
A Link on the Septien Music Conference Website

2nd Runner up
3 voice lessons at the SEPTIEN CENTER FOR ARTISTS TRAINING
1 Septien Vocal Boot Camp
6-CD training set
A Link on the Septien Music Conference Website

A CD, DVD or VHS (no audio cassettes) of you performing the song you
would like to be considered for the showcase must be mailed in by
August 9th, 2006.  One song only will be considered.
The entry MUST have your name and CONTACT information on the entry.

Septien Singing Competition
PO box 800887
Dallas, TX 75380

All genres and ages will compete against one another, and
contestants will be judged on vocal quality and commercial
potential.  The finalists will be notified at the Friday Night
Keynote dinner and will perform Saturday night for the competition.
ALL artists in this competition MUST come to the Conference prepared
to sing, and must bring with them a KAROKE TRACK on CD of the song
they wish to perform with their name on the CD, and the Track number
of the song.  The track must be clear with no lead vocals.  Anyone
with Lead vocals will be disqualified.  Finalists may accompany
themselves as well.  They do not have to sing with a track.  The
finalists will sing for a panel of industry pros and record
companies.  A written evaluation will be given to all finalists.

SONGWRITING competition!

WINNERS WILL RECEIVE:

1st place
$1,000 in Cash!
A meeting with panelist of their choice
1 Co-writing session with a Grammy award-winning songwriter
A featured story on the Septien Music Conference Website
1 Consultation with Linda Septien

2nd Place
Lyrics featured on the Septien Music Conference Website
1 consultation with Linda Septien

3rd Place
Lyrics featured in the Septien Music Conference Site

All entries (CD of song{s} with title{s} and contact info written ON
the DISC-quality is NOT important, and typed lyrics)

must be mailed by August 9th, 2006 to:

SEPTIEN SONGWRITING COMPETITION
PO Box 800887
Dallas, TX 75380

All entries are considered, although one prize per writer is allowed
(1st, 2nd or 3rd).  All Genres and ages will compete against one
another.  All entries will be professionally evaluated on the
grounds of form, originality and commercial potential; and the
evaluations will be sent to the writers post-event.  Materials WILL
NOT be returned.



THE BAND COMPETITION

A CD, DVD or VHS containing ONLY your original song (appearance is
NOT a factor) must be mailed by August 9th, 2006 to:

Septien Band Competition
PO box 800887
Dallas, TX 75380

or an EPK can be sent to info@... by the same date
specifying the song you would like considered.

The title of the song and your contact info must be written on
physical submissions.

Finalists will be notified by August 12th, 2006.  Bands will be
required to bring guitar and keyboard equipment.  Bass amp and drums
will be provided.  All genres and ages will compete against one
another and finalists will receive written evaluations by industry
professionals following their performance at the Saturday Night
Showcase.  All entries will be judged on musicality, originality and
commercial potential.
Once again, all members must 16 or over.

PRIZES INCLUDE: WINNER -
$1,000 in cash
6 voice lessons at the SEPTIEN CENTER FOR ARTISTS TRAINING
1 private consultation with Linda Septien
1 private consultation with a panelist of your choice
1 co-writing session with a Grammy-award winning songwriter
A Feature story on the Septien Music Conference Website

RUNNER-UP: -

3 voice lessons at the SEPTIEN CENTER FOR ARTISTS TRAINING Linda1
Septien Vocal Boot Camp 6-Cd training set3 lessonsLink on the
Septien Music Conference Site

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singer SEARCHING FOR SONGS

Tarintay writes:
Hi.

Thank you so much for the blurb you put on your IFS site.  I've had
lots of responses.  I was wondering if you could do me a favor and
let's de-emphasize the smooth-jazz and put more emphasis on
funk/rock/pop.  I'm re-focusing my direction a bit.

I can't tell you how much I appreciate your assistance.

Tari

Funk/Rock/Pop songs needed for recording project.

My Background:
have been a part of opening act for: (Not in any order)
Loggins and Messina
Dave Mason
Albert King
J Giles Band
Elvin Bishop
Ricky Nelson
John Mayhall
Lydia Pense &Friends
The Pointer Sisters
Jackson Browne
some I've forgotten

Have performed with: (Not in any order)
Elvin Bishop
Dave Mason
Tommy Castro Band
Lydia Pense &Friends
Pete Escovito &Sheila E.
Bruce Conti
John Mayhall
many I've forgotten

Recorded a movie soundtrack with Ronnie Montrose

Most Complimentary Genre: funk/rock/blues/r&b

voice(s) I most resemble:  Ruthie Foster / Bonnie Raitt / Lydia Pense
I don't look like any of them.

Project to be "for sale" and submitted to labels.

Web Site coming soon.

In the meantime contact info is:

Tari LaCourt
2175 Norse Drive
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

tarintay@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

Tell me What you like about IFS?

Do you have any success stories because you acted on INFO you found
in IFS?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
they do so much, it will truly blow you away as you take your
songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you great.

Tonight I'm going to be at the NUTTY BROWN in Dripping Springs at
8:00 pm with Sandy Knox to see the BomShels do a  short acoustic
set.  Buffy Lawson is one of Sandy's longtime friends, she's a great
singer and songwriter. I look forward to meeting her. Maybe I'll see
you there.  Please walk up to me and say Hi if you do.

I'm going to be in NYC from Sat July 15th - 22nd, maybe I can meet a
few IFS readers or catch one of your gigs

I've exchanged emails with Adam Anders who cowrote More than That
for the BackStreet Boys
www.AndersMusic.com

Take Care,

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Consider entering the DSA 2006 Song Contest
http://dallassongwriters.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's some Important
Recording Academy / Grammy
Grammy.com Dates and Events

June 27:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Opens
(Round 1 of 2)

June 30:
Awards: Last day for to join The Academy and have access to online
entry process

July 26
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes (Round 1 of 2)

July 15:
"Here, There & Everywhere: An Evening With Beatles Engineer Geoff
Emerick" at ACL Studio in Austin

August 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Opens

August 22:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Opens (Round 2 of 2)

September 1:
Awards: Member Online Entry Process Closes

September 6:
Awards: Record Company Online Entry Process Closes (Round 2 of 2)

September 6:
ADVOCACY: Recording Arts Day on Capitol Hill

September 26:
7th Annual Latin GRAMMY Nominee Press Conference

September 29:
Awards: Last day to join The Academy and receive voting ballot

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ever Heard of Taylor Swift
her dad does the same job I do and I read about her on our companies
website.
http://www.myspace.com/taylorswift

I play a 12-string guitar, and have since I was 12. I'm a songwriter
first and foremost, and I have never written anything I didn't mean.
I am obsessed with lyrics. I love Tennessee. And talking to people.
I write for Sony/ATV Music Publishing and I recently signed with Big
Machine/ Show Dog Records. When you love what you do, you can't
really consider it work.. So I consider myself lucky. I am the most
competetive person I know. I never really got into sports, so I
guess you could say music is my game. I love people who are nice to
me, I've never been one to say things like "All you people think you
know me, well you don't". I'm not that complicated. My complications
come out in my songs. All you need to do to be my friend is like me.
I sing country music, I am obsessed with that too. I guess you kinda
have to be. I love everyone I've ever gone creeking with. I have
beautiful friends. Be one. I really like it when people tell me they
like my music, it's everything I've got so it really means alot to
me. I'm really weird sometimes, but you are too. I need everything
to be organized. All the time. I love trucks. They are works of art.
I'm a thinker and an over-analyzer. I'm not jaded. And to all the
people who have ever blasted my songs from their car stereo, thank
you from the bottom of my heart.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Derek Sivers, the founder of CDBaby, offers many wonderful music
career tips at:
http://cdbaby.net/tips
I believe these should be required reading for anyone who wants to
carve out ANY career.


Introduction by Derek Sivers
http://cdbaby.net/derekintro
http://dallassongwriters.org

Be Considerate : Think of everything from their point of view

Constantly ask, What do they really want?
http://cdbaby.net/what-do-they-really-want

Reach them like you would want to be reached
http://cdbaby.net/reach-like-you

They know nothing about you. Don't assume anything.
http://cdbaby.net/dont-assume

Read about new music. Use the tricks that worked on you.
http://cdbaby.net/what-worked-on-you

Have the confidence to target

If you don't say what you sound like, you won't make any fans
http://cdbaby.net/say-what-you-sound-like

Proudly exclude some people
http://cdbaby.net/proudly-exclude-most

The Most Expensive Vodka
http://cdbaby.net/most-expensive-vodka

If you target sharp enough, you will own your niche
http://cdbaby.net/target-sharp

Bad Targeting Example: progressive rocker targeting teenybopper
http://cdbaby.net/progrock-teenybop

Grab people's attention, senses and emotions
Touch as many of their senses as you can
http://cdbaby.net/touch-all-senses

Never use corporate-speak
http://cdbaby.net/no-corporate-speak

Leave 'em wanting more
http://cdbaby.net/wanting-more

All the world's a stage. What character are you?

Imagine a play with 1000 actors on stage
http://cdbaby.net/thousand-actors

Be an extreme version of yourself
http://cdbaby.net/extreme-version

Even conservative legends were extreme
http://cdbaby.net/conservatives-were-extreme

Well-Rounded Doesn't Cut
http://cdbaby.net/well-rounded

Think test marketing - proof of success
Test. Improve. Perfect. Announce.
http://cdbaby.net/test-marketing

A good biz plan wins no matter what happens
http://cdbaby.net/good-biz-plan

Was 10%, now 90%
http://cdbaby.net/was-10-now-90

DIY = Decide It Yourself
http://cdbaby.net/diy

This is only a test. See what happens.
http://cdbaby.net/this-is-a-test

Business is Creative
http://cdbaby.net/creative-business

Captain T
http://cdbaby.net/captain-t

The Power of People
Someone you know
http://cdbaby.net/someone-you-know

Be a friend, not a mosquito
http://cdbaby.net/mosquito

Persistence is Polite
http://cdbaby.net/persistence

Stay in close touch with hundreds of people
http://cdbaby.net/close-with-hundreds

Get used to the idea of database and quantity
http://cdbaby.net/database-quantity

Database tips
http://cdbaby.net/database-tips

Meet three new people every week
http://cdbaby.net/people-per-week

Always think how you can help someone
http://cdbaby.net/how-you-help

Get personal
http://cdbaby.net/get-personal

Don't be afraid to ask for favors
http://cdbaby.net/ask-favors

Small gifts go a long way
http://cdbaby.net/small-gifts

Life is like High School
http://cdbaby.net/high-school

Shining example: Rayko
http://cdbaby.net/rayko-example

Make these habits, and they won't seem hard
http://cdbaby.net/habits-not-hard

More thoughts about people
http://cdbaby.net/keep-in-touch2

The Power of Words
Why words matter more than ever
http://cdbaby.net/words-matter

A short description - 10 seconds or less
http://cdbaby.net/short-description

How to describe your music
http://cdbaby.net/description-how

Hillbilly Flamenco
http://cdbaby.net/hillbilly-flamenco

Tell people why they should care
http://cdbaby.net/sound-like-someone

Blah blah blah... What NOT to say
http://cdbaby.net/what-not-to-say

Think like a person or poet, not a musician
http://cdbaby.net/not-musician

Have fun - do NOT be corporate
http://cdbaby.net/not-corporate

Or you can not talk at all
http://cdbaby.net/not-talk

Tools and Skills
Know the important skills
http://cdbaby.net/internet-skills

Promo box on your desktop
http://cdbaby.net/desktop-box

Your Interactive Website
http://cdbaby.net/interactive-website

Big Strategies
Call the destination, and ask for directions
http://cdbaby.net/call-the-destination

Put your fans to work
http://cdbaby.net/fans-to-work

Make your success a we or us. Include everyone.
http://cdbaby.net/include-everyone

Photos of your audience on your website
http://cdbaby.net/photos-of-audience

Go where the filters are
http://cdbaby.net/get-filtered

Assume the basic sale, and go for quantity
http://cdbaby.net/quantity

Have someone work the inside of the industry
http://cdbaby.net/work-industry

Be a novice marketer, not an expert
http://cdbaby.net/novice-not-expert

Extreme results = extreme actions
http://cdbaby.net/extreme-results

Stay In Over Your Head
http://cdbaby.net/over-your-head

If this is draining your energy, please stop!
http://cdbaby.net/dont-drain

Compass in Your Gut
http://cdbaby.net/compass

How to get into the college market in 4 steps
http://cdbaby.net/college

A Musician's Advice About the College Market
http://cdbaby.net/college2

The Philosophies of Fame (source anonymous)
http://cdbaby.net/fame

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

BMI INVITES SONGWRITERS 'BACK TO SCHOOL'
with Jason Blume

June 15, 2006 --Nashville-- BMI remains dedicated to educating the
creative community through its popular Songwriters' Workshop Series
in Nashville. The 2006 / 2007 season kicks off July 11 under the
continued tutelage of hit songwriter and best-selling author Jason
Blume. The workshop offers a building-block style curriculum
designed to supply songwriters with invaluable creative tips and
business counsel.


Jason Blume appears fresh off the triumphant release of his latest
book published by Billboard Books entitled This Business of
Songwriting, an exhaustive guide to navigating the murky waters of
copyright law, publishing contracts and other realities of the
business world that don't always come naturally to creative minds.
With songs on albums that have sold more than 50 million copies,
Blume is well-known among new and established songwriter circles
alike. The BMI songwriting guru has established himself as a cross-
genre go-to guy, penning tunes for pop superstars like Britney
Spears, Jesse McCartney and the Backstreet Boys, along with hits for
country artists Collin Raye, John Berry and the Oak Ridge Boys.


In addition to his artistic pursuits, Blume formerly served as
Assistant to the Director of A&R for RCA/BMG Records, broadening his
knowledge of the industry on "both sides of the desk." He expounds
upon such versatility and success in his books including "This
Business of Songwriting," as well as "Inside Songwriting" and the
No.1 best-seller "6 Steps to Songwriting Success: The Comprehensive
Guide to Writing and Marketing Hit Songs." The songwriter and author
also produced the acclaimed instructional CD series, "Writing Hit
Melodies with Jason Blume" and "Writing Hit Lyrics with Jason
Blume." Blume routinely rolls up his sleeves and teaches songwriting
and music business workshops for BMI and Nashville Songwriters
Association International (NSAI) all over the world.


Each session is held from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in BMI's Music Row
offices, and dates and topics set for the series are as follows:


July 11.............................Creating Melodies Listeners
Can't Forget

August 16........................Writing Lyrics That Communicate
What's In Your Heart

September 12.................Producing Successful Demos

October 24......................Taking Care of Business

                                           (Pitching and Publishing
Your Songs)

January 9.........................Creating Melodies Listeners Can't
Forget

February 13 ....................Writing Lyrics That Communicate
What's In Your Heart

March 13..........................Producing Successful Demos

April 10.............................Taking Care of Business

                                            (Pitching and Publishing
Your Songs)

May 15..............................Creating Melodies Listeners
Can't Forget

June 12.............................Writing Lyrics That Communicate
What's In Your Heart


The workshop series is open to all on a first-come, first-served
basis; last year's series was quickly filled to capacity. There is
no cost to attend, but applicants must pre-register.


For registration and additional information, contact Chrissy by e-
mail at nashvilleworkshops@....


Now celebrating more than 65 years in business, BMI is an American
performing rights organization that represents more than 300,000
songwriters, composers and publishers in all genres of music. With a
repertoire of more than 6.5 million musical works from around the
world, the non-profit-making corporation collects license fees from
businesses that use music, which it then distributes as royalties to
the musical creators and copyright owners it represents.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Consider Consulting as Another Revenue Source

Join Faith for a Private Lesson/Consultation
in VEGAS Thurs 6/29 - Fri 6/30
http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Consultations.html


I will be offering 30 min & 60 min Lessons/Consultations in Vegas on
Thurs
6/29 & 6/30 to support any & all of your musical dreams & pursuits
from
singing, to songwriting, to launching a career in music & more!  You
can
get all of the information here:
http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Consultations.html and of course feel
free
to email me about any questions you might have.

With all the travel & performance I do now, I rarely have a chance
to do
these one-on-one lessons/consultations that I know make such a big
impact for those of you that really have music in your hearts.  Years
ago before I traveled so much as an artist, I ran into Bert Minter -
a
beautiful 70 something year old who cried through his lessons
because he
was just so moved by music & had kept it hidden because of a
traumatic
childhood experience.  He had about 2 teeth left, emphysema which
made
it hard to breathe, he sang off pitch and as I mentioned, he cried
through the songs.  I wasn't sure at first what I could do for him or
help him with, but with commitment on both our parts we found out he
was
a great songwriter!  We developed this talent of his & before he
passed
away just a few years later, he wrote & recorded 4 beautiful
songs...they weren't songs destined for radio, but they were songs
that
freed his soul, his talent & he let it shine bright before he moved
on.

I hold onto this story & others like it and know that there is much I
can do to support the musical dreams of others, the way I have been
supported.  So if you feel called, it would be my joy to share with
you
what I can for the limited time I am in your city.

Again all the information including available time-slots are at:
http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Consultations.html.  Please share this
with any friends that you think might benefit from it.

See ya in Vegas!!! ~Faith

+++++++++++++++++++++++

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I'm enjoying the CMT series
unsung stories
below you'll find info on the series and episodes

The stories that make headline news today -- a reunion, a rescue, a
relationship -- come to life through the words and music of country
music's top songwriters. Each episode focuses on one real-life story
that provides the inspiration for a song. This behind-the-scenes
look at the songwriting process will be driven step-by-step by the
firsthand account of a particular tale by those who lived it. At the
end of each episode, the songwriter will perform the song for the
family or individuals whose life the song was based on.

http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/series.jhtml


Episode 1 (Football)

Jake would suit up for every high school football game and never
seemed to question not playing on the field, according to his
mother, Liz, and his coach, Dave Frantz.

The premiere episode of Unsung Stories begins with songwriters Keith
Anderson ("Pickin' Wildflowers") and Jeffrey Steele ("These Days")
who are inspired by the story of a young man from McDermott, Ohio,
who scores the touchdown of a lifetime. Jake Porter, a
developmentally-challenged student at Northwest High School, had
practiced with the school's football team for four years but had
never played in a game. Now, in the final game of the season,
Porter's coach comes up with a plan to put him on the field for the
first time. With the help of the opposing team's coach, Porter not
only took the field but ran the ball for a touchdown that touched an
entire community. Using that story, Anderson and Steele pen the
song, "Jake's Goin' All the Way," and travel to the Northwest High
School to perform for Porter, his coaches, the players and the
community.

http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/98998/episode.jhtml



Episode 2 (Tattoo convoy)

Jack Martin, a tattoo shop owner, and his friend, James Livingston,
were provoked into action by news footage of Hurricane Katrina.
Their rough, tattooed exteriors exposed them as unlikely
candidates...

Jack Martin, a tattoo shop owner, and his friend, James Livingston,
were provoked into action by news footage of Hurricane Katrina.
Their rough, tattooed exteriors exposed them as unlikely candidates
for becoming civic leaders, but they took charge and amassed
everything from clothing and sleeping bags to water and cash. These
two men from Lake Elsinore, Calif., were able to round up 86 tons of
aid to be hauled to the Houston Astrodome, where many hurricane
survivors were taken. Their story is told in the song, "On My
Sleeve," written by Travis Howard and Dennis Matkosky.

Howard debuted as a contestant on the first season of Nashville Star
in 2003. On this show, he began to write some of the hits that
kicked off the blazing career of rising country star Miranda
Lambert. He is currently writing songs for the follow-up to her gold-
selling debut CD, Kerosene. Howard also has music featured in Justin
Timberlake's upcoming debut film, Alpha Dog, and The Virgin of
Juarez, starring Minnie Driver and Esai Morales.

Matkosky's career spans over two decades and his work can be found
in practically every genre of music and film. He has written and
produced hit songs in the pop, R&B, country and Christian genres,
for artists including Diana Ross ("Mirror, Mirror"), LeAnn Rimes ("I
Need You"), Keith Urban ("You'll Think of Me") and the No. 1
single, "Maniac," from the movie Flashdance. His production and
songwriting credits are included in more than 50 million records
sold.

http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/98999/episode.jhtml



Episode 3 (Sin and Redemption)

By the time Tom Miller was 37, he had 36 felonies to his name. After
spending time in a maximum security prison, he knew what it felt
like to lose his faith. Determined to change his life, he went from
being convicted for organized crime to working as a prison minister
traveling the country attempting to bring hope to thousands of
prisoners. Within the pages of a stolen Bible, he found forgiveness
and his faith was restored.

Songwriters Brett James and Bill Luther captured Miller's story in
the gospel-flavored song, "Heed the Call," which explores how Miller
found the strength that helped him get back on his feet and pursue
the mission to help others.

James had more singles on Billboard's Top 40 country singles chart
in 2001 than any other songwriter. In the past five years, he's had
more than 150 songs recorded by major label artists, including Kenny
Chesney and Uncle Kracker ("When the Sun Goes Down"), Jessica
Andrews ("Who I Am") and Martina McBride ("Blessed"). In addition to
songwriting, James works in production and artist development.

Luther was named Billboard's No. 2 country writer of the year in
2000. That year, he had two Top 5 country singles -- Chesney's "What
I Need to Do" and Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's "Let's Make Love." In
2001, Luther co-wrote four songs on McGraw's album, Set This Circus
Down. He also co-wrote Chesney's "Who You'd Be Today."
http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/104784/episode.jhtml


Episode 4 (Adoption)

Tammy Overholt was 16 when she decided to give her daughter,
Candace, up for adoption. Seventeen years later, Tammy realized that
the biggest mistake she made was going to turn into one of the best
things in her life.

The summer before Candace was starting her senior year of high
school, she found out she was pregnant. Candace immediately knew
adoption was an option, so she reached out to the one person she
knew could understand her situation -- her birth mother. Tammy
discovered she was getting a second chance when she got a call from
Candace asking for advice. Written by Jeffrey Steele and Kip
Raines, "A Long Way Around" tells the story of how really good
things in life can take a long time to get to.

With a career beginning in 1990, Steele performed as bassist and
lead singer for the country group Boy Howdy for six years. The band
scored a major country hit with "She'd Give Anything." His
songwriting put nine songs on the Billboard country charts in 2002.
In 2003, he was named BMI's country songwriter of the tear, for
writing Trace Adkins' "Chrome," Tim McGraw's "The Cowboy in Me,"
Montgomery Gentry's "My Town" and Rascal Flatts' "These Days." That
same year he was named Nashville Songwriters Association
International songwriter of the year. Some of his other cuts include
Faith Hill's "When the Lights Go Down" and LeAnn Rimes' "Big Deal."

Raines penned Tim McGraw's 1998 hit, "One of These Days." He also co-
wrote Van Zant's 2005 hit single, "Help Somebody." Raines currently
writes for Windswept Pacific Music and 3 Ring Circus Music. In
addition to songwriting, he played drums on the hits "Every Once in
a While" and "Sure Can Smell the Rain" for country trio BlackHawk,
sang on Steven Curtis Chapman's album The Great Adventure and wrote
the novel, The Ink Stain.

http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/104785/episode.jhtml


Episode 5 (Army)

Despite her mother's protests, Billie Grimes, of Lebanon, Ind.,
joined the Army in March 2002 only six months after 9/11. She had
been part of the Army Reserve in college, then went on Active Duty
as an Army Medic in March 2002, keeping her enlistment secret from
her folks for two months.
When her mother, Wanda Grimes, learned of Billie's decision, she was
very concerned. After all, she had very different plans for her
daughter. Mrs. Grimes, who is a registered nurse, wanted to see her
daughter use her college degree in a more traditional setting, but
Billie had made up her mind. Additionally, Wanda Grimes already had
one child in the Army, Billie's brother, Sgt. Christopher Grimes,
who is a Military Police Officer with Mighty 118th.

Though Billie's father had once been in the Air Force, she wanted to
travel her own path, so she joined the Army. She was deployed to
Iraq on Mother's Day 2003. She was the only female member of her
platoon nicknamed the Tomb Raiders, based in Giessen, Germany, and
she was sent to Baghdad to work as a medic.

On Dec. 10, 2003, Billie jumped into a Humvee seconds after a
grenade explosion and rendered medical aid to two soldiers and two
civilian journalists. One of the journalists, Time reporter Michael
Weisskopf lost his hand in the explosion and would have bled to
death had it not been for Billie. She also treated photographer
James Nachtwey, Pfc. Jim Beverly and Pvt. Orion Jenks, all of whom
had suffered shrapnel wounds.

All the training she received as a trauma medic came into play when
Grimes was called in to help treat the journalists. "I did what I am
trained to do," she said. "There wasn't time to think about what to
do. I reacted like it's second nature."

A couple of weeks after the December attack, Grimes turned up on the
cover of Time with two sergeants from her unit, Sgt. Marquette
Whiteside and Sgt. Ronald Buxton. The three were chosen to represent
all American soldiers (but inevitably these three have been in the
spotlight). None of the three feel it's a singular award, but that
it recognizes all soldiers.

Billie didn't even know she was featured on the cover. A stranger
recognized her and showed her a copy of the magazine. She returned
home on Dec. 24 to a flurry of phone calls from folks who wanted to
congratulate her, interview her, etc.

Billie made her dream of saving lives a reality. She's now been in
the Army for five years and believes it has helped her grow as a
person. She has re-enlisted with the Army through November 2008, and
will start Orthopaedic Specialist School in August 2006 to further
her career as an Army Medic (and hopefully lead to a promotion to
Staff Sergeant). Her mother has come around to be not only
supportive but downright proud of her daughter (and her son). While
the Army wasn't something she would have chosen for her daughter,
Wanda Grimes realizes that her daughter has chosen the right path
for her life.

Born and raised in Westland, Mich., about 30 minutes west of
Detroit, Josh Gracin grew up listening to his parents' favorites --
Elvis, the Beatles and the vintage rock and pop on a favorite local
station. Then, when he was 11, the station's format changed to
country, and he started getting into artists such as Garth Brooks,
Joe Diffie, George Strait and Randy Travis. His first public
appearance was at an eighth grade talent competition where he sang
Brooks' 1993 hit "Standing Outside the Fire" and managed to win over
an audience full of dance music-loving peers.

Growing up as the only boy among four sisters, Gracin found his
parents unwilling to sign a release for him to play sports, so he
took up saxophone instead. He also had experience singing everything
from opera (as a member of his school choir) to Motown (as the only
male singer in a review called the Fairlane Youth Pop Orchestra).
While still in school, he was part of a talent competition that took
him to the stage of the Grand Ole Opry.

After high school, he enlisted in the Marines and a few years later
got married. About two years into his four-year term of the Marines,
he saw the first American Idol show. Though he hadn't sung in a
couple of years, he auditioned and was chosen as a finalist in the
second year of the series, ultimately placing fourth.

Well after he became part of the show, the U.S. invaded Iraq and the
military's world changed. Although he had no control over his
deployment or that of his unit in Camp Pendleton, he did some soul-
searching nonetheless. "The toughest moment through all of this was
when we were doing the show, and I was staying up until four or five
in the morning just watching the news and trying to keep track of
how the Marines were doing over there. I felt guilty because I was
singing on this show, and there were fellow Marines over there in
foxholes."

Gracin's transition from reality show contestant to recording star
began when he sang Rascal Flatts' "I'm Moving On" on one episode.
The guys in Rascal Flatts happened to be watching the show on their
tour bus that night. Bass player Jay DeMarcus, impressed with
Gracin's talent, called and put him in touch with Marty Williams,
who had co-produced both the band's breakthrough album and its
successful follow-up. That set in motion a series of events that led
to a record deal with Lyric Street, the same label that signed
Rascal Flatts.

Gracin's debut album, featuring the first single "I Want to Live,"
was released in 2004.

http://www.cmt.com/asm/shows/unsung_stories/?_requestid=17177



Episode 6 (Habitat for Humanity)
Millard and Linda Fuller realized it was a calling from God to build
homes for the poor, which led to Habitat for Humanity.

With dreams of becoming a millionaire, Millard Fuller's career
overshadowed his family, leaving his wife, Linda, painfully lonely
because he was always gone. Their marriage fell apart, and Millard
realized what he needed to do to save what mattered most -- his
family.

After giving up his money and career, the Fullers decided to live a
life of Christian service, building modest homes for the
underprivileged. Believing that everyone should have a decent place
to sleep, Habitat for Humanity started with a single house in
Georgia. Today, new houses go up every 30 minutes. Songwriters Jamie
O'Neal, Tim Nichols and Shaye Smith tell the powerful story behind
the Alabama couple who founded Habitat for Humanity in "Look What
Love Built."

O'Neal's 2000 country debut, Shiver, had two No. 1 hits -- "There Is
No Arizona" and "When I think About Angels," earning her three
Grammy nominations. She has recorded songs for the soundtracks of
Bridget Jones's Diary and When We Were Soldiers. She co-wrote nine
of the 11 songs on her album, Brave, including the hit, "Somebody's
Hero." She has also written songs recorded by Martina McBride, LeAnn
Rimes and Chely Wright.

For one week in 2004, Nichols had two songs at No. 1 at the same
time: Terri Clark's "Girls Lie Too" was on top of Billboard's
country chart, while Tim McGraw's "Live Like You Were Dying" stayed
No. 1 a record-setting 10 weeks on the Radio & Records country
chart. "Live Like You Were Dying" won a Grammy for best country song
in 2005, as well as song of the year from the Country Music
Association and the Nashville Songwriters Associations International
in 2004.

Smith has a string of No. 1 hits, including Kenny Chesney's "That's
Why I'm Here," O'Neal's "There Is No Arizona," Collin Raye's "One
Boy, One Girl" and Wright's "Single White Female." Smith has also
written for Trace Adkins, Faith Hill, Carolyn Dawn Johnson and
McBride, in addition to co-writing five songs on O'Neal's album,
Brave, including "Somebody's Hero."

http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/unsung_stories/104787/episode.jhtml

~ ~ ~

Hear Your Life in Song

Many people have achieved personal success despite difficulties. We
asked CMT.com fans to share their story for a chance to have it put
to music. Thousands entered, and the winning entry has been chosen.

Winner Announced In the Unsung Stories "Born With It" Contest

Melissa Williamson's story has been chosen as the winning entry for
the Unsung Stories "Born With It" Contest. Songwriters Gary Burr and
Victoria Shaw have turned her story into a song, "I Like That Girl
in the Mirror." Read Williamson's story in her own words, and see a
performance of the song by Burr and Shaw.

Melissa Williamson's story:

Dad left when I was 9. Hasn't been a Dad since. Raised by
Grandmother since Mother was alcoholic and had no job. Mother was
around as much as possible, and did the best she was able to, which
wasn't much.

I became pregnant at 15, made to marry the father who was physically
abusive. Dropped out of school. Everyone said I wouldn't amount to
anything. After birth of beautiful son, got GED, divorced abusive
husband, went to business school and graduated with 4.0 GPA. Got job
as secretary and have since gone thru the ranks to Chief Financial
Officer.

Now married to my best friend for 11 years, and am enjoying my
biggest life's accomplishment! Raising my son -- who is now 19 and
in college himself!

My Mother died 10 years ago, Grandmother, who is 92, has now lived
with me for over 7 years, and I now get to repay her for encouraging
me to achieve everything I have been blessed with.

from
http://www.cmt.com/asm/contests/unsung_stories/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IMDB.com
list songs in movies like:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0209475/soundtrack

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

you might enjoy reading the bios on
http://www.tinpansouth.com/performers_a_e.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Artist and Peeps in SHOWBIZ

If your a musician, director, artist, ANYTHING...when you go to
promote your product...KNOW IT!  Know your product (that is)!

I'm really amazed at how many people come on my shows (TV and/or
RADIO) and they have no idea when they are playing, what shows are
coming up, website addresses, so on and so forth....

I know this may sound crazy to you (crazy to me too)...but, I can't
get over how many people have no idea how to utilize promotion of
their product.

ANYWHO...I'm just venting a little b/c I go through the trouble of
booking people to come on the shows to promote themselves...they get
there, and it's like they have no idea about ANYTHING!!

It really doesn't bother me personally...I just think to
myself..."Do these people have any idea how silly they look"!  I
also know, after one interview, who is serious about their career.
Sad to say...the numbers are low!

I know only a handful of people will understand this blog...BUT, if
your one of them...Get prepared!

If you don't care...why should we???

That's all...just an observation about my business.

www.myspace.com/annehudson

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,
Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
they do so much, it will truly blow you away as you take your
songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE IFS or
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS WITH IFS
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you great.

I have lot's of cool stuff to share with you in this issue.

hope you enjoy it.

First of all,
What are your songwriting goals?
a few of mine were, I wanted to:

+ have a song on the charts.
DONE as of Feb 2004

+ become a voting member of the Grammy organization
DONE as of May 2004

+ become a Texas Chapter Grammy Governor
DONE as of May 2006

so IFS readers,
I challenge YOU dream your songwriting goals
write them down then
work hard to make them happen.

I have many other goals I'm STILL WORKING ON


The Texas Grammy Chapter website updated and now lists my name
http://www.grammy.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/Texas

I attended my first Grammy Governors Gathering on Wed June 14th and
met many of my fellow governors. I sat beside Lisa Schickel and
across from Madukwu Chinwah.


So far I've received emails asking for me to approve the members of
various committees pertaining to voting in technical areas in the
upcoming Grammys awards. like
RECORD PACKAGING CRAFT COMMITTEE for the 49th GRAMMY Awards
ENGINEERING  CRAFT COMMITTEE for the 49th GRAMMY Awards.
Producer of the Year Craft Committee for the 49th GRAMMY Awards.


I also received short form Grammy Applications and cards that list
the what the Grammy Foundation does and what Musicares does.

I also found out that the Grammy org is changing with the times and
is now allowing digital download songs to count in their credits
requirement to become a voting member.  (more below)


Tuesday, July 25th I'll be attending the Texas Grammy Chapter Board
Retreat and Orientation at the new Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in
Bastrop, TX (about 15 miles east of Austin).

A one day program (10:00 am - 5:00 pm) will encompass all aspects of
the Recording Academy including membership, the Foundation, awards,
events, etc., that all Governors should be familiar with in order to
better serve the Chapter in meeting programming goals and
objectives.  This wonderful resort is an ideal setting for us to
also brainstorm and discuss new projects.

anyway IFS readers if you'd like to know more about how to become a
Grammy member I'd be happy to talk with you. I also suggest you get
on the email lists of the Grammy Chapter closest to you.


Last Sunday I went to see Terri Hendrix at the San Marcos River Pub,
I saw Lloyd Maines as well. Lloyd told me he voted for me in the
Grammy ballot.  During Terri's gig she shared this amazing quote by
Woody Gutherie

"I hate a song that makes you think that you are not any good. I
hate a song that makes you think you are just born to lose, bound to
lose, no good to nobody, no good for nothing because you are too old
or too young or too fat or too slim, too ugly or too this or too
that...songs that run you down or poke fun at you on account of your
bad luck or hard traveling. I am out to fight those songs to my very
last breath of air and my last drop of blood. I am out to sing songs
that will prove to you that this is your world and that if it has
hit you pretty hard and knocked you for a dozen loops, no matter
what color, what size you are,how you are built.. I am out to sing
the songs that make you take pride in yourself and in your work, and
the songs that I sing are made up for the most part by all sorts of
folks just about like you. I could hire out to the other side, the
big money side, and get several dollars every week just to quit
singing my own kind of songs and to sing the kind that knock you
down still farther and the ones that poke fun at you even more and
the ones that make you think you've not got any sense at all. But I
decided a long time ago that I'd starve to death before I'd sing any
such songs as that. The radio waves and your movies and your
jukeboxes and your songbooks are already loaded with such no good
songs as that anyhow."

~~~ Woody Gutherie


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: Recording Academy Voting Membership Qualifications
Recognizing Digital/Online Distribution

If you're a recording professional today, then you're well aware how
digital
distribution is changing the way music is delivered to consumers �
in other
words, your fans.  The rapid growth of legal digital downloading and
retail
sales online has provided new outlets for independent artists and
even major
labels.

We want to support music professionals who choose to distribute
their music
online. Accordingly, The Recording Academy, with the support of its
Board of
Trustees, has updated its membership qualifications. These new
guidelines
embrace recording professionals who release their product digitally
and who wish
to become Voting members and participate in the GRAMMY Awards
process.

Currently, The Academy's qualification procedure allows applicants
who have six
commercially released tracks which are distributed on a non-
consignment basis to
become eligible to vote in the GRAMMY Awards*.  The new digital
qualification
process now gives prospective members two ways to apply for Voting
membership
consideration:

Option 1: Digital Distribution
1.  Applicant must be credited on a minimum of 12 tracks, consisting
of one
release or multiple releases, or two full length releases.
2.  Applicant must have a Web site promoting him/herself as an
artist.
Promotion could include upcoming releases, tour schedule and other
non-defined
criteria establishing the fact the artist is supporting his/her
craft through
promotion. (The need for a Web page as a self promotion tool is not
necessary
for applicants who are applying in non-performance categories such
as engineer,
producer, songwriter, art director, notes writer, etc.).
3.  Album must be available for sale to the general public in an
established
online retail setting.  Examples: Amazon.com, CD Baby, iTunes,
Rhapsody, Yahoo,
Emusic, Musicmatch, CD Universe, etc.
4.  Any other pertinent information that may establish the applicant
as pursuing
a career in the business of recorded sound.

Option 2: Member Endorsement
Applicant may be endorsed by two current Voting members of The
Academy. Specific
forms and criteria for this avenue of membership will soon be
available on
GRAMMY.com by clicking "The Recording Academy" button and then
clicking the
"Join Us" button.

The Academy is in the process of updating its Web site and membership
applications to reflect this new criterion.  In August, The Academy
will contact
all current Associate members, inviting those who think they may
qualify under
the new guidelines to submit a form for Voting membership
consideration.

These steps will strengthen The Academy by recognizing your peers
who distribute
their music electronically and opening the door to a diverse group
of industry
professionals to become potential Voting members.  Welcoming new
Voting members
further solidifies the GRAMMY as a true peer-to-peer award.

If you have any questions about these new membership guidelines,
please call
your local Chapter or e-mail memservices@...

* does not apply to certain craft categories.

Terry Lickona
Chairman Of The Recording Academy

Rob Accatino
Director, Membership & Marketing

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Thank you for your patience with the final tabulations of votes for
the Associate at-Large category.  The ballots have been counted and
tabulated by the accounting firm of Deloitte and Touche and the
results are in �" here are the final results of the 2006 Board of
Governors elections:



Newly-elected Governors
Chris Bell, Mathew Knowles,  Paul Levatino, Michael Mordecai, Ande
Rasmussen, Dick Reeves, Stefani Sullivan and Catherine Tabor.
Congratulations new Governors!


Second-Term re-elected Governors
Yolanda Adams , Maureen Doherty, Sara Hickman, Jeff Peterson.



Sadly, we will be saying goodbye to several first term Governors, as
well as Governors who have completed their second term. We can’t
express enough how appreciative we are to Don Pitts, Randall Hage
Jamail, Rodney Meyers, Freddy Fletcher, Sandy Knox, Ruben Ramos,
Madukwu Chinwah, Jill McGuckin and Dan Workman  for their hard work
and contributions to the Chapter. We hope to continue relationships
with all of you in the future.



An “informal” board luncheon for both old and new board members
is scheduled for Wednesday, June 14th at 12:30 PM, at Ms. B’s
Restaurant located at 1050 East 11th Street in Austin.  We will be
sending out a reminder requesting RSVPs soon.





The complete 2006-07 Texas Chapter Board of Governors is as follows:



Governors
Jay Adams

Yolanda Adams

Christine Albert

Ray Benson

Chris Bell

Scott Booker

Craig Calvert

Maureen Doherty

Kim Espy

Sara Hickman

Bob Gallarza

Andreas Klein

Mathew Knowles

Paul Levatino

Freddie Martinez, Jr.

Jan Mirkin

Connie Mims

Michael Mordecai

Jeff Peterson

Ande Rasmussen

Fred Remmert

Dick Reeves

Lisa Schickel

Carlos Sosa

Stefani Sullivan

Sam Taylor

Catherine Tabor

Gilbert Velasquez

Heather Wagner

Kevin Wommack



President: Malcolm Harper

Vice President: Carlos Sosa

Secretary: Lisa Schickel

Trustees: Ray Benson and Chris Bell




*****************************
Theresa L. Jenkins
Executive Director
The Recording Academy, Texas Chapter
512.328.7997, 512.328.7998 Fax

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Congratulations to the Finalists and Winners of
ASG's 2006 Song Contest


Song Contest Finalists

INSPIRATIONAL

Women At the Well - Teresa Ann Garner
A Little More Time - Michael J. Lewis
Church For Sale - Ben Krahne & Donna Aylor
No Tears - Thomas Scott Pearce
America What's Happened To You - D. Hearne, T. Spurlock & D. Berry
Live Strong - Ray Hoese

SINGER-SONGWRITER

Short Time Here -Thomas Scott Pearce
Be With Me - Bill Rice
Ladies - Rick Hornyak
Never Mind - B. Hill, D. Aylor & B. Goodwin
Five More Minutes - Bill Rice

COUNTRY

Old Pickers - Michael Ballew & Bill Colbert
Viva - Kim Townsend
Paint Your Toes - Mary Stone & David Wade
Be With Me - Bill Rice
You're Not Gone - Ed Williams
It Ain't Love - Jon Denning
West Starts Here - Joe Strouse
It Is What It Is - Joe Strouse
Don't Say Maybe - Ed Williams
Faded Town - Lee Edwards

INSTRUMENTAL

November Song - Billy Winston
Eden's Ridge - Bruce Peterson
Fab Eyes - Charles Moster
Phoeson - Michael Lewis
Frosty - Steve Bernstein
Mix n Shake - Michael Lewis

GENERAL

A 50's Kind of Love - Charles Moster & Galen Brun
Best Fight We Ever Had - Lee Edwards
Suenos de Alegria - Jonas Alvarez
A Little More Time - Michael Lewis
Glad I'm Here With You Again - Donnie Mills

ROCK

Malice in Wonderland -David Hetrick
Look At This Place - Sharon Bousquet
Jenny Took A Walk - Timothy Gangwer
28 Years - Gadget White
When You Come Around - April Hall & Jason Hall

POP

Again - Liz Parker
Nothing Means More Than Love - Ray Hoese
Hide Away - Ed Williams
Just A Fantasy - D. B. Martin
So Many Things - Laura Giammona

BLUES

Fat Bottom Sally - Robert Parish
Don't Give Up On Me - Jonas Alvarez
Stars In the Heaven - Stars in the Heavens
Laundromat - Jimi Lee
I Lost Again - Steve Shedd
Hooked On You - Jimi Lee

JAZZ

What'll I Do With Me - Jannie Ernst
New Potatoes - Joe Strouse
Just Like That - Billy Winston
I Need A Man - Jannie Ernst
Sin City - Charles Green
After You're Gone - D.B. Martin



ASG 2006 Song Contest Winners:
I see many IFS readers in the lists below:


GRAND PRIZE WINNER: THOMAS SCOTT PEARCE

Lyrics
1. Hearts and Bones (Jannie "Funster" Ernst)
2. Faded Town (Lee Edwards)
3. Where She Ends and I Begin   (Troy Neal Tucker)

Inspirational
1. No Tears  (Thomas Scott Pearce)
2  Church For Sale (Ben Krahne & Donna Aylor)
3. America What Happened To You (David Hearne, Tommy Spurlock & Deb
Berry)

Country
1. You're Not Gone  (Ed Williams)
2. Old Pickers   (Michael Ballew & Bill Colbert)
3. Be With Me  (Bill Rice)

Instrumental
1. Blue Skies   (Brenda Renfrew)
2  Frosty  (Steve Bernstein)
3. Phoeson  (Michael Lewis)

Blues
1. Laundromat  (Jimi Lee)
2. Fat Bottom Sally  (Robert Parish)
3. I Lost Again  (Steve Shedd)

Pop
1. Hide Away  (Ed Williams)
2. So Many Things  (Laura Giammona)
3. Again  (Liz Parker)

General
1. Suenos de Alegria   (Jonas Alvarez)
2.  A 50's Kind of Love (Charles Moster)
3. Best Fight We Ever Had  (Lee Edwards)

Jazz
1. Just Like That  (Billy Winston)
2. Sin City  (Charles Green)
3.After You're Gone  (DB Martin)

Rock
1. Jenny Took A Walk  (Timothy Gangwer)
2. Look At This Place (Sharon Bousquet)
3. 28 years  (Gadget White)

Singer-Songwriter
1. Short Time Here  (Thomas Scott Pearce)
2. Never Mind  (Blake Hill, Donna Aylor & Brock Goodwin)
3. Five More Minutes   (Bill Rice)

http://austinsongwritersgroup.com

Congratulations again.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

i really like paris hilton's new song"stars are blind"
it's a beautiful sexy song with a reggae beat
http://mp.aol.com/video.index.adp?pmmsid=1657622

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SongRamp has a bunch of IMprovements on the way

Site Changes/New SongRamp coming August 8th, 2006!  by tammy on
06/20 21:28

I wanted to give everyone an update on the site changes and
migrating to a new site. I know it has been somewhat frustrating
because we have not provided a specific date to launch but it has
been difficult due to getting all the things done that we have
needed. Our official launch date is August 8th, 2006. Our
development time has taken longer than expected but we are getting
it done. We very much appreciate your patience. Here are the new
features coming your way.

Open mic Features
-No limit on uploads per song instead a total space allocation and
bandwidth. So you will be able to upload songs no matter what their
size.
-Ability to edit songs and make changes
-SongRamp player
-Playing music via HiFi or LoFi
-Options to sell digital music via the Open Mic (may come weeks
after launch but coming shortly after)

Forum Features
-Editor within the forum where you can bold, change text, color,
etc..
-Ability to edit forum posts
-Avatars
-Signatures
-Subscribe to a Thread - Allows you to keep track of when someone
has posted to the thread without having to post to the thread.
-Quotes- Can be used to post a witty saying or to copy a post of
another person then answer them so people can know what you are
talking about.
-Stickies - keeping important information at the top
-Announcements - Used by the SongRamp Team to post Special
Announcements and news of interest

Site Email currently known as Instant Messaging
-Like web mail
-Has a sent, inbox and archive section
-Editor like the forums
-Clicking the member name will auto-populated their username in
the "TO" box.

Memberships
-Will offer 3 different levels of memberships with various levels of
features, storage and bandwidth.

Gifts
-You can buy a SongRamp gift certificate for others. This gives them
so much money to spend on whatever they would like at SongRamp OR
-You can gift products, music or memberships to others.

Photo Album Gallery
-You will now have a place to share your photos areas like…..
-People - It is nice to put a face to a name. :) Images of SongRamp
members and the people they know.
-Places - Images of Places that you have visited. Tours-Concerts-
Events-Vacations.
-RampBash - Images from the annual SongRamp Bash. If you haven't
attended you are missing out.
-General Stuff - If your images do not fit within the other albums,
it will fit here.

Blogs �" a place for your personal accounts of whatever interests
you and what you would like to share with the world (within limits
of course especially within the TOS).

How you move around will change for example…. You will upload
music to the Open Mic not the homepage but it will still display on
your homepage. There will be 2 areas that will be pulled together My
Profile and My Homepage. We have learned some things over time and
trying to create faster speed and better functionality on the site.
So give yourself some time to learn your way around. We hope you
will enjoy all the changes. Expect some things to be different from
they way they are now. Some people love change other people hate it
and some people fall in the middle but no matter which one you are
it takes a little bit of getting use to….. all in all SongRamp
will have much more features. We will be able to move faster with
new things than ever before. So get ready because a new SongRamp is
coming!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Exclusive Interview With Teena Marie
By Chris Rolls
Conducted June 20, 2006, 11:08 AM
R&B legend Teena Marie discusses Rick James' influence on Sapphire,
her love of Smokey Robinson, and her relationship with Cash Money.

MP3: You're a singer, a songwriter, a producer, arranger--truly a
multidimensional artist. And most of the singers that came after you
were not as talented. What do you think about the fact that there
are quite a few singers who do not produce or write their own songs?
Teena Marie: I just think it's a blessing that I was able to have
the gift of words and to be able to put them into music. I was given
a great gift all the way around. I didn't ever have to really go out
and look for songs, you know. That can be a problem, you know, if
you are out looking for songs and you're not finding great ones. But
I'm not adverse to recording other people's music either, you know.

Marvin Gaye wrote some incredible music while he was on this earth,
but he also recorded other people's music, and I think that was why
he was such an amazing artist, because he would record "Ain't No
Mountain High Enough" by Ashford and Simpson and "Your Precious
Love," but then he had the gift himself. You know, and I have done
cover songs in my career, as well, if I found that my stuff wasn't
what I felt was up to par. There is still great songs on the earth,
and I look for those songs.


http://www.mp3.com/features/stories/4996.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

drop by and listen to allison crowe sing Halleluja
http://www.myspace.com/allisoncrowe

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

send some prayers out to Autumns mom

I am cancelling my show at The Tap Room tomorrow night, my mom had a
severe heart attack and is in ICU..we are at Westlake Regional
Hospital and I have to thank Dr. Samuel DeMaio for saving my mama's
life yesterday. We are not completely clear yet, but this hospital
is absolutely stellar, beautiful. I've lived here the past 2
days...and will stay here until my mom is healed, scary stuff - -
life is definitely unpredictable.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My sincere condolences go out to my friend and cowriter Steve
Brooks, his father recently passed away in an accident.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A note from the NYC NSAI workshop

Our next workshop is on
Sunday, June 25, 2006
2:00 to 5:30 PM
520 8th Ave. (36th/37th Sts.)
Room 16A
$5 NSAI members; $10 non-NSAI members

Agenda:

1.  Lyric-writing exercises developed by Jason Blume
2.  Group critiques - please bring 15 lyric sheets


~ ~ ~

NEXT MONTH...

On Sunday, July 30th, from noon to 6 PM, we will have a special
workshop featuring NSAI president BOB REGAN ("Busy Man" - Billy Ray
Cyrus) and LIZ HENGBER ("For My Broken Heart" - Reba McIntyre).  All
aspects of the craft and business of songwriting will be up for
grabs, but Bob's main topic will be "Great Ideas" and Liz' will
be "Avoiding the Mistakes I Made as a New Yorker in Nashville."  The
fee to attend is:  $40 for NSAI members and $50 for non-members.
The NSAI member price is also offered to NAPM and SGA members.  A $5
discount is extended to anyone whose registration is postmarked July
15th or sooner.  To register, please send your check, payable
to "NSAI," to Randi Drucker, 17 Wayne Drive, Plainview, NY 11803.
Please include your organizational affiliation (NSAI, SGA or NAPM),
if any, your full name, e-mail address and phone number.  The first
ten NSAI members to reply will get a guaranteed critique.  If time
permits, critiques will be given on songs chosen at random first
from NSAI members' songs and then from all others.  For more
information on the workshop--and the meaning of life--please reply
to this e-mail or call us at 516/822-7942 or 212/740-2072.  This
event is sponsored by Song Cellar (www.songcellar.com), a full-
service Nashville music production company for songwriters,
publishers and artists.


~ ~ ~

Special thanks to DAVE BERG (www.daveberg.com) for a wonderful
workshop and performance in May and our great appreciation for the
generous support of Dave's visit by CLIFF GOLDMACHER
(www.cliffgoldmacher.com), who streams Nashville musicians/singers
in real time/full fidelity for your recordings in his Manhattan
studio .

~ ~ ~


MEMBER NEWS

Former Long-Islander Dave Isaacs, who led a great guitar workshop
for us last year, will be in the 6 PM songwriters' round at the
Bluebird on Wednesday, June 28th.

Mary Lamont and her band have some great gigs coming up:  they'll be
at the Queens Zoo (53-51 111th St., Flushing Meadows Corona Park,
718-271-1500) for the "Bison Bonanza" from noon to 4 PM on Saturday
and Sunday, June 24th and 25th; at the Jones Beach Bandshell at 8 PM
on Tuesday, June 27th (call 516-785-1600 for more info on this gig);
at Makor in the city (39 W. 67th St. - between Columbus and CPW) at
10 PM on Wednesday, June 28th; at Belmont Racetrack from noon to 4
PM on July 4th; and at the Town of Smithtown Summer concert Series
(Hoyt Farm, New Highway).at 7 PM on Sunday, July 9th.

Rich O'Brien's Blue Guitar Internet Radio Show features NSAI
members' songs this month:  "Hearts on Fire " (Alison
Hogan), "Sawdust on the Floor" (Bill Maier/Janet Goodman), "Carry
Me" (Julie Durden), "Fifteen Minutes" (Pete Columbo/Steve
Farella/Bill Maier), "Disappearing Act" (Mary Beth Stone/Randi
Drucker), "That's What We Call Love" (Jerry Silverstein/Rich
Bach), "Something Bigger Than Me" (Rich O'Brien) and "That's the Way
Love is Supposed to Be" (Jo Dell).  http://www.robrien.net/radio/

David Stewart will be doing the 6 PM songwriters' round at the
Bluebird, this Thursday, June 22nd.  If you're in Nashville, stop by
to lend your support and hear a great show.

Mary Beth Stone's song, "Paint Your Toes," co-written with David
Wade ("No Holes in These Hands" - David Allan Coe), was just named a
finalist in the country category in the Austin Songwriters Group
songwriting contest.


~ ~ ~


PRO MEMBERS' GIGS/LESSONS

Denny Sarokin, founding member of Every Mother's Son and creator of
the "Lick*tionary," a songwriter's guitar guide on DVD, will be in
town from July 21st to 28th and will be offering private guitar
intensives.  Please contact Denny directly at info@....
Beginners to advanced, make your guitar sound like a whole band.
Classic chord progressions, grooves, fingerstyle, moving bass lines
and much more.  Denny is also available for one-on-one song
critiques.

Gary Talley, creator of the excellent DVD/video "Guitar Playing for
Songwriters," will be performing with his legendary band, the Box
Tops, at the South Street Seaport the evening of Friday, August
18th.  That morning--and possibly Saturday, the 19th (he will stay
an extra day if enough people sign up)--Gary will be available to
give private guitar lessons.  An excellent opportunity!  To book a
lesson, contact Gary directly at gary@....

Gary Burr, Victoria Shaw and Lari White will be performing at
Birdland (315 W. 44th St.) on July 17th.  For reservations to this
not-to-be-missed show, call 212/581-3080.

~ ~ ~

Contact NSAI, NYC:

Randi Drucker, Regional Co-ordinator    nashrand@...
MaryBeth Stone, Cegional Co-ordinator    stonepulse@...

Tim, Adopt-a-Shop Pro    tbuppert@...

www.nashvillesongwriters.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

One of only four people in history to win both an Oscar and a Grammy
Jamie Foxx is one of them

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Got this email from an IFS reader

hardy328@... writes:

Hi, Ande,

I am a serious Austin songwriter looking for a  co-writer and was
impressed with your bio on the aol.hometown website. Rereading it
just now, I realized that  I liked it so much because what you said
about songwriting  I could have written myself, especially the part
about "fresh imagery, active verbs, comcrete nouns....Most important
I want what I write to stir the emotions. I love catchy melodies."
Also  that bit about songwriting as a puzzle  that you don't give up
on....I can really relate to that!

A little about my background: I graduated from Rice University in
1972 with an English major,  worked as an au pair girl for a year
in Paris, then came back to Austin and worked first as a
photographer, then as a reporter for the Austin American  Statesman
for almost five years, before deciding to go to medical school. I
graduated from medical school when I was 33, a few months before my
first child was born. I never got back to medicine, though I have
kept up my license and I currently volunteer as an interpretor for
doctors at  the clinic El Buen Samaritano. I'm very happily married
with two sons, age 20 and 22.

I began writing songs in 1990. In the mid 90's  I won  third place
in the ASG Contest,  Blues/Jazz category,  and  around that time I
won first place in two categories of the Bare Bones contest:
Children's and Foreign Language. Tom and Holly Watson's Publishing
Company, TennTex, I believe it was called, had several of my songs
in their catalog, including two that I co-wrote with Tommy Byrd.

The songs I wrote with Tommy developed in this way: Holly liked two
of my country songs but suggested that Tommy could give them a more
contemporary sound, which he did, and we reworked the lyrcis in the
process.  One of them  placed in the  Louisville Song Contest and
Barabara Payan used one for her personal demo.

Apart from one song featured  on an Advent Devotional CD, I don't
have any cuts, though the Piano Press told me they are holding two
of my children's songs for consideration in  an upcoming publication.

My longterm songwriting goal is to write a classic...something you
can't resist dancing to when you hear it in the grocery store, years
after it was first popular!

My immediate goals are to find a melody for a Christian song I've
just written and to make some songs I've already demo'd even
stronger... then get them cut!
Does any of that sound interesting to you?  I'm seeing someone this
week to get my earlier songs tranferred from cassette to CD, so the
earliest I could send you the CD would be Wednesday.  I could send
you the lyrics to the Christian song anytime...I'm sure you could
improve on them!  Hoping to hear from you soon!

Linda Hardy
hardy328@...

PS: If you know anyone who'd like to co-write with me in French or
Spanish, I would really love to do that!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singer Searching for songs

  Date: Jun/05/2006
By: Diana Liner
E-mail: Info@...

Title: President
Company: Liner Entertainment Group
Address: P.O. Box 96400 Houston Texas 77213
Telephone: 888-239-6564

Subject: Seeking songs for artist

Comment:
We are an artist management company in Houston Texas. We are
currently seeking songs for our artists. Seeking songs in the style
of POP, ROCK, ALTERNATIVE and R&B.. IF interested, please send a CD
of your work to:
Liner Entertainment Group
P.O. Box 96400
Houston Texas, 77213

THanks Liner Entertainment Group

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

It is time to gear up for the Next AMF Boot Camp!
Get ready for
"Generation Next: Internet Marketing for Indies"
June 2006

Dear Ande,

The AMF team is happy to announce our 30th Boot Camp titled,
Generation Next: Internet Marketing for Indies. The panel will cover
the online social networking phenomenon, the most effective uses of
these sites and services, as well as explore what is next for the
online marketing world. AMF has worked hard to line up a stellar
panel of experts to make this an information packed event!

A special thank you to all who assisted us with the primary research
for this event, including those who made the time to take the survey
as well as those who helped spread the word. The AMF team is number
crunching as we speak and will deliver the results from our
pioneering Myspace research at the Boot Camp.

For those of you planning to attend Boot Camp on the 26th, please
bring your questions, success stories, and out-of-the-box ideas you
want to share with the rest of the local music community. Since
everyone has their own stories about the online marketing world, we
are dedicating time for the audience to share their thoughts.

AMF has invited the local online community to the meet and greet
portion of the evening so attendees can learn about the many
resources we have available right here in Austin. Businesses that
will be present include digital aggregators, online publications,
and website designers. If you are a local business catering to the
artist community through online ventures and would like to attend
email brittani@... to RSVP.

What: AMF's Music Industry Boot Camp, Generation Next: Internet
Marketing for Indies
Where: Lucky Lounge, 209 A West 5th Street
When: Monday, June 26th at 6:30pm
Panelists Include: Travis Higden- Owner, Peek-a-Boo Records, Chris
Gray, Austin Chronicle and Marc Gunn, Bard's Crier
Who should attend: The local music community including industry
professionals and artists.

Musically Yours,

The AMF Team
austinmusicfoundation.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Congrats to Evie Nicole

Okay...so....this could be a big deal, or not, but I still wanna
tell people..... I'm 1 of 56 finalists chosen from all over the
country to be on this reality show starting July 19th on ABC
called "The One: Making of a Music Star." How this all happened is
kinda crazy, cause first, I didn't even know about it.  We were
having our regular Sunday afternoon brunch with the girls, when my
friend Dede asked me if I'd consider auditioning for a reality music
show that's more about the whole artist package and developing
people with potential.....rather than the American Idol deal.  And I
said yeah I might be.  So a few days later I get a text message from
one of the ABC guys who were in town for the auditions and hanging
out at Radius 10 where Dede works to try and convince her to do
it....She had no interest in it but graciously referred moi, and I
was like, whatever, what do I have to lose?  So I talked to the guy
and we set up an audition time.  I sang three songs, two covers and
1 original...and they dug it and said some nice things about my
voice and asked me to move on to the interview.  So they interviewed
me for a while asking crazy crazy questions that lead me to believe,
they definitely wanted drama, in addition to talent.  I thought I
wasn't dramatic enough, and I didn't have the most exciting answers
or explanations to things but I guess they liked something.  Or
maybe I'm just more dramatic than I think....(I can see all my
friends nodding their heads right now)....Anyway, I don't know a few
days or maybe a week later, I get a call from someone at ABC in LA,
informing me that the producers in LA had seen my audition tape and
loved it, and that I was one of 15 chosen from Nashville, and to
clear my schedule for the week of the finals just in case and be
ready for a drug test....so I thought, wow, this is getting
interesting.  Then, a few calls later and a few weeks later, and a
25 page background check later, I got THE CALL....the call
congratulating me on making it to the finals and giving me my flight
information.  And that's where it stands now....I leave the 25th and
could be cut at anytime during that week and it would all be
over....OR I could make it to the actual show and be on your
freakin' TV screen July 19th.....It's a bit nausiating to think
about actually, so I'm just gonna take it one day at a time.  Just
wanted to let you all know, and please say a prayer that the best
thing for my career happens....oh....for those of you that haven't
seen the previews, they put 10 people up in a house in LA for like
10 weeks, and turn it into a music academy.  It will be filmed like
a reality show, with all the happenings of everyday life in the
house, and then each week there will also be a performance where the
audience votes one person off per week like American
Idol....SO....we'll see....okay, I'm sick from this....I gotta go
get skinny.....BYE!!!!
http://www.myspace.com/evienicolemusic

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS

Still Looking for Songs

tarintay@...
Date: 2006-06-06, 2:17PM PDT

I'm doing a recording project and would like to use unknown, or
relatively unknown songs. I fall into a unique genre. Smooth Jazz-
Bonnie Raitte-Lydia Pense. Interesting huh? I am not Mariah-Beyonce.

If you can help, please contact me.

Tari


Oh, by the way, you said to drop a few names.  These are OLD names,
but here goes:

I've been part of opening act for: Loggins and Messina, Dave Mason,
John Mayall, J Giles Band, Ricky Nelson, Albert King, Cold Blood,
and many more I've forgotten.

I've performed with: Elvin Bishop, Tommy Castro Band, Lydia Pense
and Friends, Tower of Power, to name a few.

I recorded a song for a movie soundtrack with Ronnie Montrose, back
in the late 70's as well.

You may share this info too if you feel it's necessary.

Tari LaCourt
2175 Norse Drive
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  ActiveAandE@...

Hi Ande,
We are producers looking for great Country songs for a new male
artist recording an album.  He's early 20's, baritone.  If you have
any songs that you'd like us to hear, please send MP3's.

Thank you,

Ken and Becky Rash
Active Audio &Entertainment
www.4ActiveAudio.com

(858) 673-5441

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JUNE 13, 2006

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: PAMELA LOVELACE: 615-293-4944

Music Fest 2006 was very, very good to Nashville-based singer Kyle
Wyley even though things actually got rather out of hand. Kyle
worked very hard, spending some time at his booth each day of the
festival and visiting with over 1000 friends. In fact, some of these
friends were so anxious to see Kyle that when he arrived at his
booth on the Thursday security had to intervene.

This happened again on Friday and by Saturday more stanchions had to
be put in place and business associates posted at the corners to
further keep order.

Another indication of Kyle's popularity at the event was that
security had to cut off the autograph line at his booth each day. By
Sunday, the security guard joked with his manager that she was
looking forward to seeing what kind of melee occurs next year when
Kyle enters the building.

Channel 4 reporter Cindy Carter chose Kyle to represent the new
artist perspective of Music Fest as part of her coverage of the
event. She interviewed him at his booth and later told management
that she couldn't hear herself think while asking Kyle questions
because of the excitement and size of the surrounding crowd.

Passion about Kyle was not confined to his booth. As reported online
in MusicRow's "Bobby Karl Works the CMA Music Festival" column,
chapter 224, "handsome Kyle Wyley doesn't even have a record, but
that didn't stop fans from mobbing his Acoustic Corner set".

His first-ever fan club party was a sold-out success at the
Renaissance Hotel and again, enthusiasm was the order of the day.
The excitable and very supportive group of fans had to be moved to a
different room because the noise was disturbing a board meeting
being held next door.

During the party prizes were given away prompting several bold fans
to ask Kyle for the shirt off of his back. Kyle turned this into an
auction and raised $400 on the spot for the Children's Miracle
Network. Another $100 was raised by auctioning a gift certificate
that was previously given as a door prize but donated back for the
cause.

To learn more about Kyle please visit his fan site kylewyley.com.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

have you checked out
www.storybehindthesong.net


Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
they do so much, it will truly blow you away as you take your
songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

got some time sensitive stuff I want to get out today, plus I'm
going to NYC Thursday and Friday


I do have a new song I haven't told y'all about yet. The title is:
The MAN I NO LONGER AM
I cowrote it with Robert Deitch.  Robert is someone I found on
songramp and I was super impressed with him so I asked him to
cowrite. you can hear it at:
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=45817

I had an interesting conversation with john arthur martinez and he
shared this nugget of advice.
"It's important (for artists) to pick and choose where you share
your art."

Last Sunday I went to see Hayes Carll perform at the San Marcos
River pub. He was great and I encourage you to study his music and
catch a show if you get the chance.  www.HayesCarll.com

Hope you enjoy this issue,

Ande


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A note from Gary Powell:

Amy and I are delighted to present Philippe Bertaud in our
intimate "In the Studio with Gary Powell" concert series.  If you
missed Philippe last year, read the reviews of his show on our
website.

Amy will be serving "The Cheeses of France" as light hors d'oeuvres
before the show with  coffee at intermission.  Please feel free to
bring your own beer or wine and we'll keep it chilled for you.

Miramuse Presents

World Guitarist
Philippe Bertaud
"In the Studio with Gary Powell"

Saturday, June 10, 2006
$75.00

In his shows in Brazil, Mexico, USA, Canada or in Europe, Philippe
Bertaud brings his audience a touch of French refinement topped with
warm Latin character. Each concert is a delightful cultural journey
where everyone enjoys the superior quality of his playing, unique
expressions and captivating speech.

Doors open at 7:00pm
Showtime 8:00pm


For details about all the artists, the experience
or ticket information, please visit:
http://www.studioconcerts.com
512-301-0555

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

you'll find a great interview with Jason Blume at:
www.SongwriterPro.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever checked out puremusic
you'll find some great articles there

http://www.puremusic.com/

http://www.puremusic.com/archives.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I found this blog interesting
http://txlonghornwife.blogspot.com/2006/05/song-of-your-life.html

and I challenge you to write a song so great that someone somewhere
who you've never met is so touched by your song that they write
about it and tell their friends about it


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Alexi Murdoch has a new CD out, he's going on tour and will be in
Austin.  I've heard his ong Orange Sky on TV shows and in movies.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A Starry Night

An intemate evening under the stars honoring Mayor Antonio
Villaraigosa
With the Grammy Foundation Leadership Award

the grammy organization is having an awesome event on Saturday July
22, 2006 in a private estate setting in Malibu.
Reception 6 pm
Dinner and Concert 7:30 pm

Join David Foster and Friends
Natasha Bedingfield
Eric Benet
Peter Cincotti
Kenneth "BabyFace" Edmonds
Josh Groban
Renee Olstead
Dionne Warwick

for more information or to make a donation
please contact Taworia Davis at
310 392 3777

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

PRESS RELEASE

June 3, 2006

For immediate release


Wyley's Inc and Lovelace Entertainment Organization are proud to
announce that Kyle Wyley has been selected as an artist endorsee

by Cinch Jeans, a subsidiary of Rocky Mountain Clothing Company,
based in Denver, CO.

As one of only eight artists in the program Kyle will represent
Cinch at fairs, festivals and events throughout the country.

He will also participate in their Country Weekly print advertising
campaigns.

Kyle is in the studio working on his new CD to be released in
September.

More can be learned about Cinch at cinchjeans.com.

To learn more about Kyle please visit his websites: his newly re-
launched fan site is
www.kylewyley.com
and he has a business-to-business site at
www.kylewyleylive.com.

For further information please contact Pamela Lovelace at
615.293.4944 or at pjlovelace@....

Please let us know if you wish to unsubscribe from this list by
replying to this message with "remove" in the subject line.

Thank you.

Copyright � 2006 Pamela Lovelace Management and Wyley's Inc. All
rights reserved

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.myspace.com/hayescarll

hayescarll.com

Hayes Carll is one of the best of a new breed of Texas
singer/songwriters. He has cut his teeth working the same coffee
houses, honky-tonks and bars that have spawned the likes of Lyle
Lovett and Townes Van Zandt. 2005 saw him traveling back and forth
across the US performing over 200 shows in support of his second cd,
Little Rock.

This self-released album went number 1 and ranked number 3 overall
for the year on the Americana Radio chart with over 13,000 spins.
Little Rock is full of songs that deliver a gut-punch of honesty and
gritty realism. He teamed with roots producer R.S. Field (Billy Joe
Shaver, Sonny Landreth, Buddy Guy) for this project. The album
features Alison Moorer on guest vocals and guitarist Kenny Vaughn
(Lucinda Williams, Rodney Crowell). Carll also managed to track down
two of his songwriting heroes, Guy Clark and Ray Wyllie Hubbard, to
write songs for the album.

Hayes is a gambler and the gamble is paying off. True to his
maverick mentality, the decision to release the album on his own
Highway 87 label was easy. I just couldn't see spending the next 10
years of my life not controlling what I have.

So how's he getting all that attention for his new record? It's all
because of one thing great music. Songs that rock like the opening
Wish I Hadn't Stayed So Long and songs that roll out of the speaker
like a lullaby (Take Me Away). Great music has a way of reaching the
surface and finding an audience. Relentless touring, radio airplay
and word of mouth have been reaching fans across the country and
introducing them to Hayes and his music.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

note from an IFS Reader

peggyleamu@... writes:

Dear Ande, I just wanted to thank you and let you know I appreciate
your IFS letters. I've been getting them a number of months now. In
a singer/songwriting world where people seem to want money just to
breath the same air and converse something free is certainly a
breath of fresh air.  Did I say that???
Peggy Lea Keuler

http://www.myspace.com/peggyleakeuler

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Another note from an IFS reader

StonePulse writes:

Ande, how are you?  I was so backed up on my e-mail, I never even
noticed you'd reproduced our announcement on our Dave Berg events in
IFS.  Thanks so much!  Not only is your assistance much appreciated,
but it is gratifying to know someone actually reads our
newsletter!!!  The event went really well, by the way, with great
attendance at the workshop (less so at the open mic, but it was
nonetheless inspiring and fun) and lots of deceptively simple wisdom
from Dave (he approached all critiques as he imagined his publisher
would--VERY helpful!).

Regarding your interest in getting demos of songs that artists have
cut, I've had some success obtaining them from publishers--for
example, we got Rivers Rutherford's demo of "Man of Me" from
Universal Publishing.  It was a great example we used in the
workshop to demonstrate the power of a demo--we played it side by
side with Gary Allan's hit, which is taken almost note for note from
the demo.

Hoping you're well.

Kind regards,
Mary Beth

mary beth stone
songwriter/singer
regional co-ordinator
nsai, nyc
212/740-2072
stonepulse@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
they do so much, it will truly blow you away as you take your
songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope you are doing great.

It's been a while since I launched the last issue.
Lot's of stuff is going on as always.

I recently received Jason Blume's latest book and I highly recommend
that you order yours. No Songwriters personal songwriting book
library would

Last night I saw my buddy John Gilliam at Cheatham Street in San
Marcos, John told me a songwriter asked to cover one of his songs. I
congratulated him, it's always an honor when someone does that.

If you're out somewhere and you hear a truly great song, that you
want to try out, walk up to the artist and talk. Compliment her and
her song and ask her,
"Would it be alright with you if I tried out your song?"
My cowriter Steve Brooks, just got a cut with Slaid Cleaves.

yesterday I had lunch with Gary Powell at Austin's Headliners Club.
www.GaryPowell.com

I have a few cuts in the works, a few songs in the mill.

Saturday I got an email from a cowriter on a song we worked on a few
years ago, we never really put the finishing touches on it and it's
a really good idea.  He wanted to invite a melody writer in on the
song to help take it to the next level.  So I told him I'm fine with
that. I hope I'm not being too difficult with them, I just want to
love every line, word and note. I want us to have super high
standards so we make the song as great as it can be.

I met Kyle Wyley at Sandy Knox's house. Kyle is truly phenomenal.
www.KyleWyley.com
Lately He's been cowriting with Karen Staley, Jeffery Steele, Sandy
Knox, and other well known hit writers.
I believe Kyle will get a deal.


Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Pat Pattison is doing a workshop in Austin
June 3rd and 4th

there maybe still be time to sign up
contact Joe
strousongs@...

You've received this email because you're signed up to be a part of
this great workshop! We will definitely have a diverse group of
songwriters.

First and foremost, thanks go out to Jan Bozarth for arranging the
location (again!), Erin Guerra (for being so helpful with the
location) and Bitsy Rice, Debbie Beinhorn, Mary Shanahan and Ande
Rasmussen for helping spread the word about this workshop.  And of
course, Pat, for coming back!

As past participants will agree, Pat will give us a lot of great
songwriting information and everyone should expect to actively
participate. And we should anticipate some sort of homework
assignment as well. (Oh oh!)

Wear comfortable clothes - dress for the weather - Kindergarten
rules apply!

Location: We'll be meeting in the Main Building, Room G-18 (just
south of the soccer fields). The is the same classroom we've had and
is located on the southeast corner of the Main Building, but watch
for signs, just in case there's a slight change in location. The map
is located here: http://www.stedwards.edu/map/campmap.htm

Parking is anywhere on the map marked in yellow or blue. I usually
try to find a spot in the lot near the Mary Moody Theater.

Time: 10 am to 5 pm both days with an hour or so for lunch. I'll be
there early on Saturday morning to set up (I'll bring the tasty
empanadas), so get some coffee and come by any time after 9 am!

Lunch: You can bring your own lunch if you like � we may order in or
wander about the area. There's also a cafeteria and coffee shop
across from the Main Building and even though it's institutional
food, it's pretty good. One caveat � since school is out, the hours
of operation may be limited, so stay flexible.

Song Critiques: Pat will do these Sunday on a limited basis - as
time allows. However, please be sure to bring your lyrics on a
transparency so they can be projected for the class to see. You can
usually get these done on a computer printer or Ginny's or Kinko's
for a relatively nominal fee. Sign up will be on Saturday so be sure
to have the transparency ready on Sunday. You can bring a CD,
guitar, a capella or cassette � it's all up to you.

Field Trip: Strictly optional. Let's visit about this on Saturday-
any suggestions?

Please email me if you have any questions.

See you Saturday morning, June 3rd and thank you again for taking
the time to further your songwriting career!

Joe
strousongs@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Singers Searching for Songs

Date: May/17/2006
By: Peter Shields
E-mail: shields@...


Subject: Harvard Boy Band

Comment:
My friends & I are making a boy band @ Harvard. We are interested in
hot, uptempo, and CATCHY pop songs. We are not looking to earn
credibility points - we're talking Britney & N'Sync style. We are
performers who sing... You can check out one of my solo projects
here, ( a song I wrote & recorded by myself... tis amateur, but to
have a glimpse at the style:)
http://kingstoneentertainment.com/AfroditiLayout.htm Thanks!!!!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Grammy Awards return to Sunday night in 2007

The Grammy Awards will return to Sunday night in 2007. The 49th
annual event will air live on CBS from the Staples Center in Los
Angeles on Feb. 11, Recording Academy President Neil Portnow
announced Tuesday.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Legendary club owner Clifford Antone dies
http://www.news8austin.com/content/top_stories/default.asp?
ArID=162598

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ever heard of Jenna Lee?
She's an IFS reader, an actress and a songwriter.
She played the mom in Rascall Flatts video
"What Hurts the Most"

you can see her headshot and resume at:
http://tinyurl.com/jk9l9

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I loved this quote:

To be an artist one must first be a man vitally concerned with all
problems of social struggle, unflinching in portraying them without
concealment or evasion, never shirking the truth as he understands
it, never withdrawing from life. As a painter his problems are those
of his craft, he is a workman and an artisan. As an artist he must
be a dreamer; he must interpret the unexpressed hopes, fears and
desires of his people and of his time, he must be the conscience of
his culture. His work must contain the whole substance of morality
not in content but rather by the sheer force of its aesthetic facts.
~ Diego Rivera

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

have you seen Paul Oakenfold's new song?
http://music.yahoo.com/ar-288173-videos--Paul-Oakenfold

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


ever heard of
http://www.myspace.com/antjeduvekot
I think she's great.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I loved this quote, maybe you will too

"what I like doing best is writing.
Nothing matches this feeling.
Nothing brings me this particular joy.
I need it. I crave it.
When i don't have it
I suffer."
~ Elizabeth Berg

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

congratulations to David Choi

www.broadjam.com/davidchoi
www.myspace.com/davidchoimusic


DAVID CHOI signed on as a staff writer for WARNER/CHAPPELL
Publishing

Here's his story:

Where do I start? lol...

Well, as a staff writer, you write a certain number of songs; in my
case, 10 this year. A co-write equals half a song. My awesome
publisher Judy Stakee sets me up with various writers and artists
and we basically just write. The focus is to write for either the
artist I'm working with, or people who are looking for material
(Kelly Clarkson, Backstreet Boys, Cher, etc.). Other than that,
there's not much else. I get an advance for the year. Sometimes, all
in one check or as a salary.

How I got there was luck and persistence. As I posted on LTM awhile
ago, I was in ASCAP's Lester Sill Workshop which Judy was one of the
hosts. I was 1 among 15 artists/writers/producers (luck) who were
pre-screened for the workshop, so it was fairly private. Keith
Emrick from ASCAP was the one who selected my song (That Girl) and
he told me he fought to get me in lol (luck. That's why I'm
switching over to ASCAP lol). I learned about the workshop through
browsing the internet (luck). I knew this was my big chance, so I
seized every opportunity I could at the workshop. During the
workshop all 15 of us were paired up to write a song together and to
make a long story short, me and my collaborator's song was the only
one recorded on CD while everyone else performed it live, so I think
that showed the seriousness of music I have. I'm not really sure
what went on in the "talks backstage" right after the workshop, but
I know Brendan Okrent (another host at the ASCAP workshop) had a lot
to do with getting the ball rolling to get me signed. She really
believes in me and tries hard to connect me with various industry
people.

So I guess a lot of factors came about to getting me signed. I gave
the best impression I could, was nice, and showed how much music is
what I wanted to do, while making sure I didn't sound too desperate
or annoying. Age also played a big role in my opinion, as I did a
lot compared to most people my age (20), which shows my work ethic.
I also had a lot in common with Judy including having the same type
of dog lol...

I also have to say, the music you write needs to sound like what's
on the radio NOW. Cookie cutter music, or "bad" music...whatever you
want to call it. That's what's selling, so if you don't want to or
can't write that, there's the film/tv industry to pitch your songs
to which isn't bad at all.

Another very important thing I learned which everyone should drill
in their heads... "networking" is not knowing someone... networking
means becoming their friend. Whether it be A&R reps, publishers,
music supervisors, etc.

If I think of anything else, I'll write it down here.

PS. Casey, you can add 2 more years to the age of your socks lol...


Thanks again everyone for their support!!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My friend Kyle Wyley appears in some scenes in danielle pecks video
"findin a good man"   He's after the married guy

you can see the video at
http://www.myspace.com/daniellepeckmusic

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Why are Fall Out Boy's song titles so long?
you can find the article at:
http://www.daytondailynews.com/life/content/life/daily/0513wentzasaps
ide.html

audio clip where
Wentz explains the art of song titles.
http://asap.ap.org/data/audio//20060508/20060508112633-8539.mp3

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

the 5th Annual CMT/NSAI Song Contest announced Winners
I see several IFS readers in the list,
Congratulations
http://www.nashvillesongwriters.com/news.ez?viewStory=90

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

What process do you use to write songs to be as great as you can?
Recently I listened to a few demos a friend of mine did and I felt
like she demoed them too soon and could really benefit from getting
pro critiques before she demoed his songs.

as far as a critique service
there's
www.jasonblume.com

kim copeland
http://www.songwritersconnection.com/page21.html
but I read she's not accepting new clients

www.NashvilleSongwriters.com


I also created a peer critiquing group called
Advanced Lyric Writers
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/advancedlyricwriters/

another peer critiquing group is
http://www.songramp.com/forums.ez

there's jpf message boards
http://www.justplainfolks.org/cgi-bin/Ultimate.cgi
they have several lyric critique boards

just remember to give critiques on 4 or 5 lyrics for each one you
ask for
if you participate on peer critique sites

I also encourage you to cowrite
find talented people to cowrite with
locally and globally

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

are you using google alerts
find out where your name is popping up on the web
follow the news on topics that interest you
http://www.google.com/alerts

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

'BLESSED' SONGWRITER HILLARY LINDSEY BLOSSOMS
  http://magazine.angrycountry.com/article.php?story=20060530113618779

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I love what Adrina Thorpe wrote

*** "Emptiness inspires me. Silence beckons me, thrills me, fills me
with ideas. Vacant amphitheaters, like a blank canvas of delight,
dazzle me with visions only I seem to see... I love to write... it's
a passion I've had since I was very little. Melodies are all little
miracles, and the perfect arrangements are like discovering heaven.
I hope I can contribute beauty to the silence in the air. It's such
an ache... to create something truly beautiful... you have no idea
how many little melodies have flitted from my mind onto the same
tape player I've had since I was hardly ten years old. Even though
I've had the opportunity to work with several top notch producers,
that beat up little tape recorder always ends up being more
convenient at the moment of inspiration. My favorite place to stand
is right under the stage of a giant amphitheater, looking out over
the seas of empty chairs... envisioning a stage of lights and
sound ...becoming lost in the swirl of it all, singing for the world
to hear. Its the most exciting spot in the whole world to me." -
Adrina
http://www.myspace.com/adrinathorpe

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SongwriterUniverse Monthly Newsletter

In This Issue:  May 2006

�    Rising singer/songwriter Holly Brook talks about her
hit "Where'd You Go" with Fort Minor and her debut album; watch her
videos
�    The deadline to enter the next song contest is May 31
�    Superstar Pink talks about her new album "I'm Not Dead," and
about her songs and collaborations; hear her two singles
�    Message from our New Sponsor: MasterWriter
�    New "Best Song Of The Month" Winners Announced
�    Message from Dale Kawashima (head of SongwriterUniverse)



Rising singer/songwriter Holly Brook talks about her hit "Where'd
You Go" with Fort Minor and her debut album; watch her videos

Our latest article is an interview with talented, young
singer/songwriter, HOLLY BROOKS, who is already on the charts as the
featured vocalist on the Fort Minor smash hit, "Where'd You Go." She
talks about having a Top 5 hit, and how she teamed up with Fort
Minor. Brooks also talks about her debut album, which will be
released shortly on Machine Shop/Warner Bros. Records. You can watch
the video of her hit "Where'd You Go," and also the video of her new
song, "Curious," from her album.

NEW ARTICLES COMING SOON: We're also lining up many new
interviews/articles, such as country star Gretchen Wilson, R&B
superstar writer/producer Jermaine Dupri, Jesse McCartney, Michelle
Branch, DMC of Run-DMC, India.Arie, Teena Marie and others.
Click here to read the Holly Brook article




Superstar Pink talks about her new album "I'm Not Dead," and about
her songs and collaborations; hear her two singles

Grammy-winning, multi-platinum artist PINK talks about her hot new
album, I'm Not Dead," which includes her hit "Stupid Girls" and her
new single "Who Knew." She talks about all the writer/producers
she's worked with on her albums, and whom she worked with for her
new album. Pink co-wrote 45 songs for the album with such top
writer/producers as Billy Mann, Max Martin, Butch Walker and Mike
Elizondo. You can also listen to her singles "Stupid Girls" and "Who
Knew."
Click here to read the Pink article




New "Best Song Of The Month" Winners Announced

Meg Allison (pictured right) a modern pop/rock singer/songwriter
from Chicago, IL, has won this month's song contest, for her
song, "Old Soul."

In addition, here are the other Top Five songs of the month:

"Broken". Written by Will Brock of Philadelphia, PA.

"Beautiful". Written by Felicia Rives and Carl Rives of
Fayetteville, GA.

"My Gravity." Written by Melody Verdugo of Los Angeles, CA.

"Could You Be." Written by Jon Gillette of North Hollywood, CA.

You can listen to their mp3s, and contact them directly. Their
contact info and links are listed on the "Best Song Of The Month"
Winners page.

Click here to read the Winners article




The deadline to enter the next song contest is May 31

ENTRIES ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE NEXT, 'BEST SONG OF THE
MONTH" CONTEST. ALSO, THERE IS A NEW PRIZE ADDED: THE MUSIC
PUBLISHER REGISTRY BOOK.

The deadline for the next, monthly contest is May 31. The winning
songwriter will be written about for a very positive article at
SongwriterUniverse. This monthly Winners article is now read by
industry music execs, plus thousands of songwriters and artists. The
three, free prizes for the contest winner are: (1) a copy of
the "A&R Registry" directory book (pictured right); (2) a copy of
the "Music Publisher Registry" directory book; (3) a copy of
the "Indie Bible" resource book for independent artists; and (4) the
instructional video, "Guitar Playing For Songwriters," by top
Nashville session guitarist Gary Talley.

TWO PRIZES NOW FOR THE TOP FIVE FINALISTS

There are now two free prizes for the Top Five finalists each month.
First, the finalists will be offered to become Gold Artists at the
popular RadioIndy.com website/online radio network. Each finalist
can have their own, free web page on the RadioIndy site, and have
their songs broadcast on the RadioIndy radio network.

Second, each finalist will receive a free, three-month subscription
to the Songbridge pitch sheet. This comprehensive tip sheet has good
listings for U.S. and Canadian artists who are looking for songs.

The entry fee is only $12 per song (or $20 to enter two songs).
Click here to read the song contest instuctions





Message from Dale Kawashima (head of SongwriterUniverse)

I hope everyone's year is going well.

We're working hard to continue to bring you the best magazine
content and resources for songwriters, artists and the general music
community. We're looking forward to further building the site
throughout the summer.

BRIEF MUSIC BUSINESS NEWS UPDATE:

Is the slump in the music industry finally coming to an end? There
is evidence that CD sales have stabilized this year, with digital
online sales booming. The EMI Group has just announced that their
profits rose 14% this past year, and their sales increased for the
first time in five years. Some industry pros are saying that the
music biz rebound may finally be near.

However, to the people working in the music business, it seems that
the job market is still shrinking. There is heavy speculation that
EMI is about to acquire Warner Music, which would lead to many more
layoffs. If this should happen, then there would be only three, huge
music comglomerates remaining: Sony/BMG, Universal and EMI/Warner.
So it's still a nervous time to be in the industry, especially if
you work for EMI or Warner Music.

That's the latest for now. Thank you very much for reading our
latest newsletter, and for your continued interest in our sites.

Best regards,
Dale Kawashima
http://www.songwriteruniverse.com/ SingerUniverse
Los Angeles
Please click here to visit the SongwriterUniverse site


Write On,

Ande Rasmussen
Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this issue finds you doing great.

first a BIG thank you
to everyone who wrote me about my recent great news, I very much
appreciate it.
http://www.grammy.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/Texas/

Every songwriter should be on the email list for their local or
closest Grammy chapter.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Wasn't Idol a shocker?
I thought the final 2 was going to be
Chris Vs Katharine.
here's an interview with Chris
http://tinyurl.com/gau9p

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

What advice do you have for aspiring songwriters?

You absolutely MUST do it for the love of the process. If you don't
get satisfaction from just having "the gift" it will be a long and
frustrating road. This business is not worth it any other way. The
chances of anyone having a hit (no matter how awesomely talented
they are) is probably bigger odds than the lottery. You have to
accept that sometimes the most special songs you write will only be
heard by you , a few friends and family and God. Not everyone is
meant to be on the radio. You can touch people with your music in so
many ways. If you forget that and place all of your validation on
industry success you will have missed the whole point. If you are
lucky enough to have one song recorded you have done more than 99.9%
of people on the planet, let alone the industry. Writing a great
song is a miracle unto itself. I go through my catalog and wonder
why certain songs will never be heard when I think they are a
million times better than the ones I've gotten cut. I have no idea
why. But it was a gift to me to write it, so maybe that's all that
song was meant to accomplish. We won't know until we're in Heaven
and can look back over the big picture to see who was touched by our
songs that we didn't even realize.

http://www.karenstaley.com/bio.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  the 2nd Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise December 2, 2006
www.txsongwriterscruise.com

This event provides instruction regarding the craft and business of
songwriting from some of the most successful songwriters, label
representatives, publishers and industry
pro's in the nation.  Participants also receive the opportunity to
personally pitch their songs to these incredible pro's.  We have
added two new Music Industry pro's to our lineup of pro's actually
attending this year's event on December 2, 2006...

Monte Warden
won his first Austin Music Award (for Best New Band) when he
was all of 15 years old. The band in question was the country trio
Whoa
Trigger!, which the young Warden rode all the way into his next
project -
the even more popular Wagoneers, which scored a major-label deal
with A&M
after performing at the 1st SXSW. The band's "Stout and High" debut
was
released to worldwide critical acclaim and is widely considered one
of the
best country albums of the 80s. The early-to-mid '90s found Warden
launching
a solo career, resulting in three albums showcasing his signature
blend of
Buddy Holly hooks, hot rockabilly guitar licks and straight-up Texas
honky-tonk. Warden's biggest success in recent years has been as a
professional songwriter, landing cuts in several movies and
television
shows, as well as with artists like Kelly Willis, Patty Loveless,
George
Jones, Bruce Robison, Travis Tritt, and George Strait, to name a
few.
Warden co-wrote Strait's smash, "Desperately". In the fall of 2005,
Warden was
awarded his first BMI songwriting award for success in the country
field.
In March 2006, Warden was awarded the prestigious BMI 'Million-Air'
Award
signifying over 1 million radio performances of his
song, "Desperately".

Brandi Warden
comes from a long line of country music veterans.  Her grandparents,
Don & Gladys Scaife, father, Phil Thomas, uncle, Ronny  Scaife, and
cousin, Joe Scaife, are all award-winning songwriters and /or
producers, with the familys record sales in excess of 100 million.
She began her  own music career in the mid 90s in A&R with Decca
Records, before moving to Austin, TX to marry songwriter / recording
artist, Monte Warden.  Since founding her publishing company,
Moonkiss Music, in 2002, she has earned numerous Gold & Platinum
records, had major label cuts in both country & rock, and several
charted singles, including George Straits  "Desperately" which
earned a BMI Award in 2005 and a BMI Million-Air Award in 2006.
Brandi & Monte live with their three sons in Austin, TX.

Monte will manage a song pitch critique session and will provide one
on one
instruction on how to get your songs heard by top music labels and
pro's
without having to live in Nashville, NY or LA.  Something he has
been very
successful at.  Brandi will participate in panel discussions and
will be
listening for songs that might be suitable for Moonkiss Publishing.

Brandi and Monte will join the following music industry pro's on the
2nd
Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise:

Ted Lowe, President-ChoiceTracks, Inc., Los Angeles. Placed songs in
  "Americas Top Modelâ�, â��"Making the Videoâ�, â
��"Desperate
Housewives�, �"Punk�d
�,
and many more.

Norman DeVasure, Owner-Sunset Music/Norman Productions, Nashville.
Placed
Tracy Byrds mega-hit "Keeper of the Stars". Cuts with Montgomery
Gentry, Ty Herndon, George Strait, Reba McEntire, and many more.

Mike Geiger, Hit songwriter, Nashville, penned Neil McCoy's "City
Put The
Country Back In Me" and George Strait's "Adalida", and many more.

Perry Howard- Songwriter/Publisher Relations BMI, Nashville

Brian Rawlings, Director of Publishing, Disney Music, Los Angeles

Brice Long, Songwriter/Artist, RCA - As an new artist his new single
just
charted and he wrote Gary Allen's "Nothing On But The Radio".

Shannan Neese, Writer/Publisher Relations, SESAC, Nashville

Roxie Dean, Hit songwriter, Nashville

Carie Long, A & R Representative, Sony/BMG, Nashville

Jason Blume- With credits for writing songs that have been on albums
with
more than 50 million sales and the author of best-selling
songwriting
books.

Look for our ad in the May-June issue of American Songwriter
Magazine or go
to our website at www.txsongwriterscruise.com for more info.

Thanks

Lealean Peace
Founder/Coordinator
Texas Songwriters Cruise
www.txsongwriterscruise.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Got a street team?

here's a recent street team email I received

jake@... writes:
It's time to start helping Cross Canadian Ragweed get on the upper
ranks of CMT.com!  This will help get them up high on the charts,
and also provide more exposure for Cross Canadian Ragweed on CMT!

How can you help?

1. Post messages about Cross Canadian Ragweed on CMT.com by clicking
the link below:
http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/cross_canadian_ragweed/artist.jhtml

2. Post messages about Cross Canadian Ragweed and general discussion
on their CMT.com message board:
http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/cross_canadian_ragweed/message_board.jh
tml

3. Stream their videos often, and send their video stream link to
friends, family, and post on other message boards for people to
check them out!   The more streams they get, the more CMT recognizes
Cross Canadian Ragweed fans want more of them on CMT!

To stream their videos, please click the link below:
http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/cross_canadian_ragweed/videos.jhtml

Use the i-Squad e-mail system to e-mail the Cross Canadian Ragweed i-
Squad administrator that you have streamed, posted, and recruited
other people to do stream and post - and we will manually award you
points each month for your efforts.  We have just received word that
are new items for the Cross Canadian Ragweed i-Squad store is on the
way, so look for the new items to be on the store in the next few
weeks.  In the meantime - go ahead and rack up points by recruiting
for them now!

THANKS SO MUCH FOR HELPING CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A Asked me the following question:

Hi Ande,

Now that I have a myspace site and music,
what would you recommend is the best way to use it?
You seem to be especially smart about these things.
Thanks for your help.

A

~ ~ ~

hi A,

you could use myspace to be a sexual predator
to find fake children
to ruin your life when you wind up on the
"to catch a predator" TV show

but I suggest you use myspace to:

+ market your music

+ find great artists who are looking for songs

+ stay in touch with artists and writers

+ blog stuff

+ increase the number of myspace friends you have

+ read other peoples blogs (sometimes comment)

+ stay in touch with REAL friends

+ post bulletins

+ share your calendar and updates

so right now I am conducting an experiment to determine if the
effort to do all this is worth it or not

ande

I'll also ask IFS readers how they use myspace and what's happened
because of it.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Blurb from a Talented singer

My name is Cameron Maxwell- I'm a young singer and songwriter and I
sing contemporary pop/soul/R&B. You can hear a few older samples of
my work on
www.SoundClick.com/CameronMaxwell
I'm looking for talented producers, songwriters,arrangers, other
lyricists to work on contemporary projects to pitch to major
artists. I co-write with songwriters both in LA and NY who have big
label management, so if we come up with something commercial, it
WILL be heard. Thanks y'all

http://www.justplainfolks.org/ubb/Forum4/HTML/002431.html


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ever Heard of Kelly Archer

  I am a songwriter. Why? Well, that's just where I landed. I hopped
in my 88 Mazda 323 on Jan 7th 2001 and drove across the country with
no plan, just a gut feeling like I was pointed in the right
direction. So far, my gut was right. You can trace the last five
years through my song catalogue. Nashville isn't your typical town
and the 'music business' isn't your typical business. I'm adapting
as I go and i'm figuring things out as I go, most of the time with a
smile on my face. I have big goals and places I want to go that
expand beyond my music and Tennessee but I know already that there
will come a day when I will miss these days of struggle and trial
and error. The days in my crappy/cute little apartment, learning new
chords, and trying to be a business woman when most of the time I
still feel like a kid. I am happy to say I care alot more about what
the music lovers, the country bar patron's, CD buyer's, concert
goers, and country music festival beer drinker's think of my song's
then those here on the row. I hope more then anything that I can
look back and have a great story to tell. I have recently signed as
a staff writer with BMG Publishing and I am very grateful for the
opportunity to continue my treck out here in Nashville. I have a
GREAT family without whom I wouldn't be doing what I am doing. I
have a wonderful support system of friends out here too. We are
cheerleaders for one another and that is crucial. I Love my
friends!! I also have a gorgeous Australian Shepherd named Lizzie
and a fat and friendly Cat named Roja but pronounced 'Roger w/an
english accent. I hope you enjoy the tunes and if you catch a show I
hope you have a great time. To all of those who take the time to
leave me messages and comments and come to the shows and sing
along........YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW IMPORTANT YOU ARE!!!! THANK YOU :)
k
  http://www.myspace.com/kellyarcher

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

anyone following

109th U.S. Congress (2005-2006)
H.R. 2594: Songwriters Capital Gains Tax Equity Act

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h109-2594

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

you might enjoy
www.storybehindthesong.net

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

here was my reply to an anrtist who is considering recording one of
my songs

hello C,

great to hear from you
glad you think all of us together is Awesome

you wrote: "1) if i wanted to record it, what steps would i have to
take to record it, and what paper-work/red-tape i would have to go
through"

~~~> are you recording it to
make a NOT for sale demo or
a for sale CD

a not for sale demo:
no paperwork,
I just ask you to properly credit the writers and
provide us with a copy of what you record

for sale CD:
we need to send you a mechanical license,
it will state you need to
+ pay the standard mechanical fee,
(which is currently 9.1 cents per song per CD),
+ properly credit us (the writers and publishers) on the CD and
+ provide us with a copy of the recording and the CD


you wrote: "2) do you have this song done or demoed with male
vocals, just seem like the arrangement is high, and also if you
happen to do you have it where i could listen to it."
~~~> the orignal demo is a male vocal but I we made it back in 1998
and my cowriter didn't have a CD burner at the time, so I only have
it on cassette
It isn't as dynamic as the female vocal

(3) if everything worked out and does the track come with the just
the music or with the background vocals included, sort of like an
accompanent track or soundtrack some people call them, you know they
usually use them when they don't have a live band or musicians. If
you could get back with me on this i would appreacite it,
~~~> unfortunately I do not have backing tracks for this song, even
if I did they wouldn't work for you. (the key is too high)   I have
friends in Nashville who could easily and affordably rebuild one for
you that would be in your key and designed to perfectly fit you
Galen Breen ~ www.thegatorhole.com
or
Denny Martin www.dennymartinmusic.com

and I'm Glad you like "Send me out," It is a simple hymn some
churches are using it around the country.

I'd also be happy to send you mp3's of the songs that interest you
there's no cost and no paperwork if you just want to try out a song
or work it up

thanks again and let me know

ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kristin Armstrong wrote an article that contained the phrase

fearlessly MSH
(our acronym for "Make shit happen)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever heard of Kimber manning?
www.myspace.com/kimbermanning

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

KIND NOTES FROM IFS READERS

Ande~
You send out so many wonderful Inspirations... I think that the
thing that Inspires me most is just the mere fact that you "Show
up".  Often, and with great intention and enthusiasm.  That is what
great work comes from.  I think my teacher's got it right.  He's
always saying the people that make it don't sit in judgement of
themselves or anyone else ~ they don't get on their own back ~ they
just keep sweepin.  Just sweep the ally.  With a smile and a good
attitude.  Just keep sweepin.  Thanks again and I hope your weekend
was beautiful.  It's certainly been gorgeous here  :)
Peace & Love,
Jenna

~ ~ ~

Hey Ande~

You are amazing!  Your issues do inspire people to re-member their
Hearts and live what they Love.

I have been so busy out here in LA doing acting, makeup, and now
real estate.  It has been all too easy to forget to sit down and
write.  I have been on a huge learning curve that is finally coming
around.  Sometimes doing what you Love successfully requires
reorganizing your life in a way that brings your life together and
allows you to Focus.  For me, having so much to do, has been a
little confusing.  But I can swear now, that as long as I Believe in
all I am doing, I am able to do it all, provided that I keep an
environment  (organized files, logs, etc.)  and a schedule that
allows me to Focus.

And because of your constant Inspiration and re-minders, even though
I've found Los Angeles difficult, I have never given up on my Love
for songwriting.  I've written a couple of good things while here
but that was a while ago.  And most recently, I was inspired by one
of your IFS pieces.  And music has been coming back in my life.
It's really incredible how life works.  I think things do come to
you when you open yourself to them.  Key ~ staying Open to the
wonderful possibilities.

Anyway, long story, (a little shorter), I have set a session
tomorrow with someone I believe in who is extremely talented ~ who I
met and have worked with at The Beverly Hills Playhouse.  He's a
wonderful actor, an excellent singer, and a stellar human being.  I
sometimes wonder why we as Artists so often refuse to utilize the
Gifts that exist right in front of our faces.  My best guess is that
we, often times, Focus too far away, or in the wrong direction.  I'm
thinking the more I get clear on "Focus", the more successes I will
have in life.

In any case, I am writing out what Inspires me, in an effort to
share how much you are part of that.  And I think most of us are
never told when we greatly affect people around us.  We all need to
be more aware as Artists, that we re-present Hope to the world.  It
is the Artist's vision that refuses to believe only what it is
told.  It is the Artist who can take the ugliest things in life and
turn them into an Inspiration of thought and/or beauty.  It is the
true Artist that needs no particular language or religion to
communicate to the world.  An Artist helps all people think with
their Hearts and Spirits.

An Artist doesn't rely on anyone, or anything, that would seek to
dictate a Soul's journey.

Each Artist in this world takes a singular journey, and the only
directions given come from deep within the Soul.  God gave us all
all of the tools necessary to be an Artist in life.

We create our world from the depths of our Souls.  And from that, we
offer the world the Gift of seeing the world from perspectives
unimagined.  Most people are good and beautiful, but they get caught
up in thinking as the world would have them think, and in believing
thoughts that are not their own, and they don't even know it.

Artists re-mind the world that things may not always be as they are
perceived, and that God gave us all a mind to think with, and the
gifts of our own re-creation.

You are a very important Artist.  You share the depths of your Soul
and Inspire others to do the same.
That is what I am doing now.  Thank you Ande and Congratulations on
your journey.  God only knows your Devine Destination.  When you
have Faith in that, all paths in your Soul are open to you.
And the Artist in you will keep you in the Constructive universe of
Creation.  That is the Universe of God.  You are there.  To me,
anyway.

Xoxo!!!
   :)
Peace & Love, Jenna Lee
Manhattan Beach, CA

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here was a question someone asked me followed by my response:


Hi Ande,

Thanks for the add. Great songs. Is that you singing the first one?
If so, really like your voice. Funny thing is my friend thought it
sounded like me at first. Like when I sing a mellow tune like that.

I'd love to start pitching some of my other songs to people. Any
pitching services you'd recommend?

Xtina aka Christina

http://www.myspace.com/christinarasch

hi xtina

you are a great singer, thanks for dropping by

that's not me singing, I'm a non performing songwriter, I just dream
up songs & cowrite them. the singer on BH is Halie Loren.
myspace.com/halieloren

you've done the first 2 steps in pitching
1) write strong songs &
2) create great demos

work on getting them heard, put yourself in a position where you get
invited on projects

my suggestions to you are

1) network locally & globally

2) find producers & cowrite with them

3) find awesome up & coming artists and help them,

4) find amazing songwriters and be friends, get to the point where
you can ask, "If I found a really great song idea would it be
alright if I ran it past you?

how many cell phone numbers and email addresses do you have of great
songwriters, producers and artists?

how many doors are open to hearing song ideas from you?

5) as far as pitching lists
there's
musicrow or row fax
song link
taxi
www.songu.com/ifs

6) you should also work to place your songs on TV and in Films

7) become the go to person in your community on songwriting

8) take actions every day on each front of your songwriting

9) create clear goals of what you hope to accomplish and find a way
to make them happen

10) persist, be patient

11) take a different approach than everyone else,

12) trust flashes of intuition that arrive
think them write them down
do them

13) save great song ideas to cowrite, like bottles of fine wine to
share with a special person,

14) write down ideas you get and do them

15) take so many long shots that you forget about all the things
you've done, then months later something you did will pan out.

16) subscribe to songwriterblog.com

17) find out what other people are trying to accomplish and help
them, encourage them.
the more you care about other people the more they'll care about you

Think up more ideas

you deserve much success

ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: Recording Academy Member Benefit: Register For Your FREE
NAMM Summer Session badgeThe 2006 NAMM Summer Session Is Coming
To "The Live Music Capital Of The World"
� Austin, Texas, July 14-16 and NAMM and The Recording Academy Want
You There.

NAMM has graciously offered Recording Academy members the
opportunity to be a
part of one of largest gatherings of music products retailers and
manufacturers
in the country.  Recording Academy members can register for the NAMM
Summer
Session absolutely FREE! (a savings of $200!)

Come see the gear, make some new contacts and enjoy some great live
music
after-show hours.  For more information about the show, please visit
www.nammsummersession.com  And don't forget to stop by The Recording
Academy
booth in the Austin Convention Center.

To register for your FREE NAMM Summer Session badge, please RSVP by
June 1 to
texas@....  Due to the volume of on-site NAMM member
registrations,
Recording Academy members will not be able to pick up badges on show
site.
Please respond today as RSVPs received after June 1 will not be
honored by NAMM.

If you have any questions, please call the Texas Chapter of The
Recording
Academy at 512.328.7997

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Note from an IFS reader


  Hi Folks...my song, "Never Been To Carolina" is in the running for
Song Of The Month on Folk Alley, an internet Folk music broadcast.
You can go and vote for the song if you want to.....thanks
Bob

just go to :

www.folkalley.com

on the homepage you will see a link that says
"go to monthly song contest"...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Piano Press is currently accepting submissions of:

Spring songs
Earth Day songs
Easter songs
Passover songs
Mother's Day songs
Father's Day songs
Patriotic songs
Irish folk song piano arrangements
International folk song piano arrangements

Please send CDs or cassettes w/lyrics
(and lead sheets and/or piano scores if available) to:

Piano Press Submissions Dept.
PO Box 85
Del Mar, CA 92014-0085

__________________________________________

The 6th Annual Art of Music Writing Contest

Since 2001, The Art of Music Annual Writing Contest has
encouraged poets, authors, and songwriters to write on
music-related topics as well as come forward with music-related
poems, short stories, essays, and song lyrics they have written
which might have otherwise gone unnoticed. The winning
entries, along with the top 75 entries, are published in our
anthology, "The Art of Music - A Collection of Writings." The
anthology gives writers a chance to share their music-related
pieces and experience those written by others. "The Art of Music -
A Collection of Writings" has been used in university-level poetry
courses and can be found in libraries and bookstores as well as
museum and performing art center gift shops. Portions of the
proceeds from the anthology are donated to Breast Cancer
Research. The editor, Elizabeth C. Axford, is a ten-year breast
cancer survivor.

Please read the contest rules below.

Visit http://www.pianopress.com/artofmusic.htm
for a printable contest entry form. (78K PDF)

---------------------------------------------------------------------
---
The Art of Music Annual Writing Contest
RULES & REGULATIONS

Each entry must include the following:

*    Completed entry form (photocopy is acceptable) with original
signature.
*    Typed manuscript including title and music-related written work
only. Do not include any identification on the actual manuscript.
*    $20 entry fee per entry.

Checks and money orders should be made payable to Piano
Press. Payment from countries outside the US must be in the
form of an international money order.

All entries must be postmarked on or before June 30, 2006

Categories include:

*    Poem
*    Short Story
*    Essay
*    Song Lyric
*    Illustration for Cover Art

Mail entries to:
Piano Press Contest Dept.
PO Box 85
Del Mar, CA 92014-0085

All entries submitted must be original and shall not infringe any
copyrights or any other rights of any third parties. Entrant shall,
by
entering, indemnify and hold Piano Press harmless from and
against any claims inconsistent with the foregoing.

The Art of Music Annual Writing Contest is open to all amateur
and professional writers and anyone regardless of nationality or
origin. Employees of Piano Press, its families, subsidiaries, and
affiliates are not eligible. If entrant is under 18 years old, the
signature of a parent or guardian is required.

Entrant may submit as many writings as desired in each
category. Multiple entries must be sent in one package with one
check or money order. All entry fees are non-refundable.

Entry materials submitted will not be returned. Piano Press is
not responsible for late, lost, damaged, misdirected, postage
due, stolen, or misappropriated entries.

Piano Press will screen all entries, and the finalists will be sent
to the judges who will select the winners. The 2006 judging
committee consists of published authors, poets, and
songwriters.

Winners will be announced by October 31, 2006. Winners will be
notified by mail. Winners will be required to sign an affidavit
confirming that winner's entry is original and he/she holds the
rights to the writing. Failure to sign and return the form within
fourteen days or provision of false information will result in
immediate disqualification and an alternate winner will be
selected. Affidavits are subject to verification by Piano Press and
its agents. Entry constitutes permission to use winner's name,
likeness, and voice for future advertising and publicity purposes
without additional compensation.

Contest prizes include publication in The Art of Music - A
Collection of Writings (in the upcoming Complete Edition) or
publication by Piano Press, one copy of each poetry anthology,
an engraved trophy, a certificate, and a cash prize ($150 1st,
$100 2nd, $50 3rd). All federal, state, and local taxes, and
customs fees, when applicable, are the sole responsibility of the
winner. Piano Press will not pay any winners' taxes. Prizes will
be sent out within a reasonable amount of time, and Piano
Press will use its best efforts to send prizes out in a timely
fashion.

Entrant retains all ownership rights to the submitted writing(s).

Piano Press reserves the right to exclude any entries deemed
inappropriate.

By submitting an application form to Piano Press, entrant agrees
to be bound by the Piano Press contest entry rules and
regulations established herein.

� 2006 Piano Press Newsletter

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: Recording Academy Member Benefit: Register For Your FREE
NAMM Summer Session badgeThe 2006 NAMM Summer Session Is Coming
To "The Live Music Capital Of The World"
� Austin, Texas, July 14-16 and NAMM and The Recording Academy Want
You There.

NAMM has graciously offered Recording Academy members the
opportunity to be a
part of one of largest gatherings of music products retailers and
manufacturers
in the country.  Recording Academy members can register for the NAMM
Summer
Session absolutely FREE! (a savings of $200!)

Come see the gear, make some new contacts and enjoy some great live
music
after-show hours.  For more information about the show, please visit
www.nammsummersession.com  And don't forget to stop by The Recording
Academy
booth in the Austin Convention Center.

To register for your FREE NAMM Summer Session badge, please RSVP by
June 1 to
texas@....  Due to the volume of on-site NAMM member
registrations,
Recording Academy members will not be able to pick up badges on show
site.
Please respond today as RSVPs received after June 1 will not be
honored by NAMM.

If you have any questions, please call the Texas Chapter of The
Recording
Academy at 512.328.7997.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

      SongwriterUniverse Monthly Newsletter

In This Issue:  April 2006

  �    Special new interview with Jewel; watch her new video
   �    The deadline to enter the next song contest is April 30


  �    New interview with gospel superstar Kirk Franklin; hear his
new single
   �    Message from our New Sponsor: MasterWriter


  �    New "Best Song Of The Month" Contest Winners Announced
   �    Message from Dale Kawashima (head of SongwriterUniverse)



Special new interview with Jewel; watch her new video

Our latest article is an in-depth interview with singer/songwriter,
multi-platinum artist JEWEL. She talks about her new album "Goodbye
Alice In Wonderland," and how it's her most autobiographical album
since her debut album "Pieces Of You." The album marks a return to
her more acoustic, pop and rock roots. She also talks about co-
producing the album with renowned producer, Rob Cavallo (Green Day,
Goo Goo Dolls). You can also watch the video of her current hit
single, "Again And Again."

NEW ARTICLES COMING SOON: We're also lining up interviews/articles
with R&B; superstar writer/producer Jermaine Dupri, acclaimed rock
bands Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the All-American Rejects, and new pop idol
Teddy Geiger.
Click here to read the Jewel article




New interview with gospel superstar Kirk Franklin; hear his new
single

KIRK FRANKLIN, gospel/R&B; star who has won three Grammy Awards and
has had five platinum albums, talks about his latest album, "Hero."
He talks about how his religious faith inspires his music, and how
he wrote the songs on his album. Franklin also talks about
collaborating with Stevie Wonder. Wonder sings on Franklin's
song "Why," and Franklin directed the gospel choir on two songs on
Wonder's "A Time To Love" album. You can also listen to Franklin's
hit single, "Looking For You."
Click here to read the Kirk Franklin article




New "Best Song Of The Month" Contest Winners Announced

Amanda Droste (pictured right) a modern rock/pop singer/songwriter
from New York, NY, has won this month's song contest, for her
song, "Thank You."

In addition, here are the other Top Five songs of the month:

"Driving Away". Written by SVOY of New York, NY.

"Far From Home ". Written by Erin Hobson of Rhinebeck, NY.

"A Dream." Written by Craig A. Thompson of Toledo, OH.

"I'm Not Laughing Anymore." Written by Stephen Desjardins of
Orlando, FL.

You can listen to their mp3s, and contact them directly. Their
contact info and links are listed on the "Best Song Of The Month"
Winners page.

Click here to read the Winners article




The deadline to enter the next song contest is April 30

ENTRIES ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE NEXT, 'BEST SONG OF THE
MONTH" CONTEST. ALSO, THERE IS A NEW PRIZE ADDED: THE MUSIC
PUBLISHER REGISTRY BOOK.

The deadline for the next, monthly contest is April 30. The winning
songwriter will be written about for a very positive article at
SongwriterUniverse. This monthly Winners article is now read by
industry music execs, plus thousands of songwriters and artists. The
three, free prizes for the contest winner are: (1) a copy of
the "A&R; Registry" directory book (pictured right); (2) a copy of
the "Music Publisher Registry" directory book; (3) a copy of
the "Indie Bible" resource book for independent artists; and (4) the
instructional video, "Guitar Playing For Songwriters," by top
Nashville session guitarist Gary Talley.

TWO PRIZES NOW FOR THE TOP FIVE FINALISTS

There are now two free prizes for the Top Five finalists each month.
First, the finalists will be offered to become Gold Artists at the
popular RadioIndy.com website/online radio network. Each finalist
can have their own, free web page on the RadioIndy site, and have
their songs broadcast on the RadioIndy radio network.

Second, each finalist will receive a free, three-month subscription
to the Songbridge pitch sheet. This comprehensive tip sheet has good
listings for U.S. and Canadian artists who are looking for songs.

The entry fee is only $12 per song (or $20 to enter two songs).
Click here to read the song contest instuctions




Message from our New Sponsor: MasterWriter

MasterWriter is the most powerful suite of songwriting tools ever
assembled in one program. This revolutionary new software won Best
of Show at MacWorld Expo and has received rave reviews in every
major music magazine. MasterWriter is endorsed by BMI, ASCAP, SESAC,
NSAI and is currently used by some of the world's leading
songwriters including Gwen Stefani, Rob Thomas, Jimmy Webb, Kenny
Loggins, Trent Reznor, Clint Black, and many more. Regular Price:
$289. SongwriterUniverse Special: $219. Use discount number 4007 to
receive your $70 discount. Take the Tour and download a free 30-Day
Trial by clicking here the MasterWriter link below.
Click here to visit the MasterWriter site and download the free, 30-
day trial:




Message from Dale Kawashima (head of SongwriterUniverse)

I hope everyone's year is going well.

We're pleased to report that last month's "Best Song Of The Month"
Winner, 15-year-old Antonio Pontarelli of Los Angeles, has been
offered a deal with a major label, and he has also received an offer
to be represented by a top manager. It's exciting to see one of our
song contest winners do so well.

BRIEF MUSIC BUSINESS NEWS UPDATE:

Music sales seem to be holding up pretty well so far this year. CD
sales are only down between 1-2% in 2006, while legal download sales
(such as iTunes) continues to grow at a very fast pace. Regarding
legal downloads, the major labels have all agreed that they want to
implement variable pricing on the downloading of songs. For example,
a hit single should cost more than the current standard of 99 cents
per download, and lesser or obscure album cuts could be sold for
less than 99 cents. However, at this time Apple iTunes is holding
firm to its position of charging 99 cents for all downloads.

Sony Corp. and its Sony Music division have been in the news lately.
First Sony/ATV Music Publishing has acquired half of Michael
Jackson's share of this company. So Sony now owns 75% of Sony/ATV,
while Jackson now owns 25%. There is also talk that Sony wants to
buy out BMG's 50% share of the merged Sony/BMG label. And this month
in Nashville, Sony's country division merged with BMG's RCA country
label division, thereby reducing the number of major labels in
Nashville.

That's the latest for now. Thank you very much for reading our
latest newsletter, and for your continued interest in our sites.

Best regards,
Dale Kawashima
SongwriterUniverse &; SingerUniverse
Los Angeles
Please click here to visit the SongwriterUniverse site

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande Rasmussen
Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

Dear IFS Friends,

I just received some wonderful news few minutes ago

oday I found out I was elected to serve a 2 year term on the the
Board of Governors for the  Texas Grammy Chapter.

I was on the ballot in 2004 and in 2005
but didn't get elected

guess third time's a charm.

Thanks to everyone who voted for me and offered advice on what my 50
word message should say.
Especially Sandy Knox, www.SandyKnox.com
Brian Austin Whitney, www.jpfolks.org and
Gary Powell, www.GaryPowell.com

If you'd like to read the announcement email the Texas Chapter sent
me
you can find it in my myspace blog at
www.myspace.com/anders

As I serve my term my plan is to
be the voice for songwriters and
work to serve songwriter needs

Thanks Again,

Ande Rasmussen

SSS = SINGERS SEARCHING FOR SONGS
which means you'll find 3 blurbs in the issue

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this issue finds you well.
As I write this I'm super frustrated because yesterday I wrote an
entire IFS issue, sent it and for some strange reason it didn't go,
it didn't launch, I forgot to copy it before I launched it so I lost
it.

AAAARRRRGGG!!!

it was a really good one. so here I am now retyping it.

Thanks to everyone who replied to the last IFS issue.

On May 9th IFS will Celebrate it's 6th anniversary!

here's a little history on IFS

in 2000 I created a yahoogroup called
PitchOpps
short for pitch opportunities where I gathered  "SInger Searching for
Songs" info and shared it with readers.  I also started sharing
songwriting tips, suggestions and stories. At some point I decided to
separate the tips from pitch opps and named it "Daily Inspirations
for Songwriters"  Then I got burned out on sending it out daily so I
changed it to Inspirations for Songwriters and I send out issues
whenever I feel like it or have the time to assemble a message of
have an urgent message I want to share.  A few years ago I bought
www.SongWriterBlog.com and I pointed it to the IFS home page.

I think I continue doing IFS to share songwriting info with me peers
and to be a prodder and encourager for songwriters.  My hope is you
will read something in IFS and it will inspire you into action. You
will do something that will help your songwriting.

There were times when I considered quitting, but so far I've always
managed to launch another issue.
if you'd like to read previous IFS issues you can find them at
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/DIFS/messages

so thanks to everyone who reads IFS

I hope it helps you accomplish what you are capable of.

Ande

Several IFS readers have suggested to me that I should create and
offer a
Best of IFS
what do you think?
should I?

~ ~ ~

What the Artist Actually Heard

Are you a Songwriter with Major Label Cuts?

"What the Artist Actually Heard" was created by Ande Rasmussen the
editor and publisher of "Inspirations for Songwriters" /
http://www.songwriterblog.com/.  Ande is collecting demo recordings
of the
actual demos major label artists heard that made them decide to cut
particular songs.

At this point his plan is to:
Listen to them,
Study them,
Write about them in his ezine http://www.songwriterblog.com/, and
Play them at songwriting events so beginning songwriters can hear
the same demos the artists heard,
Beginning songwriters need to know, how great their
songs and demos need to be

songwriters can email one mp3 at a time to
AndeRasmussen@...
IN THE SUBJECT FIELD WRITE
IFS WAAH
or
mail CD's and info to

Ande Rasmussen
835 martindale falls
martindale, tx 78655

if you like
Please include info about the Demo's

Song Title
cowriters
artist who cut it
Date written and date cut
CD it was on
how it the song did on the charts (if it was a single)
Publishers
songwriter contact info

Story behind the song
Story behind getting it cut
any other info you'd like to add

Thank you!

Ande Rasmussen
Please let other songwriters with cuts know
I've gotten a few so far and sincerely thank the writers who have
contributed.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

today I found Serena Matthews on MYSPACE

she is a unique artist with some poignant dark songs
I love what she wrote on her page

http://www.myspace.com/serenamatthews

Hello out there.... welcome to my music place at myspace. Thanks
kindly for visiting and even more-so if you settle on in and stay for
awhile.

My name is Serena and I'm originally from Byrdstown, Tennessee.
(you've probably never heard of it, it's a super small town located
in the smallest county in Tennessee)

I now live just outside of Nashville and I work for a photography
company doing digital retouching and other interesting things
involving photoshop and ImageMatch. In my spare time I write music
and songs, play my guitar, and spend time with my family. (I am very
happily married and have a beautiful baby girl named Emma). I have a
soft spot in my heart for children, animals and the environment, and
I think it's important to be kind to all the people you meet in life,
because well, that's just how it should be. Imagine a world where
everybody was kind to one another.. would be nice wouldn't it?

I came to myspace originally to share my music with people and then
decided it's a nice place to find music by other people and to find
kindred spirits with similar insterests. If I've added you as a
friend it's because I took the time to look at your profile and
sincerely enjoyed what I found or heard there. I'm not a "serial
friend adder" that just clicks without reading/listening.

I'm a very simple gal. I'm a sucker for poetry (particularly Emily
Dickinson) and good music (see my list to the left and that only
scratches the surface), oh yeah and I live for good coffee and dark
chocolate..

My songs are pretty dark and sad sometimes, but honestly, I'm a
pretty happy person, I just do most of my writing when I'm a bit blue
because it tends to make me feel better. Something about sad songs
that just make me feel happy.

My CD's "Dreams for the Broken" and "Soul Searching" were recently
picked up and added to the artist catalog at Lost Cat Records.


It's a very nice little independent label with an emphasis on folk
rock and Americana genres. It's owned by Jerry Jodice, who is also a
singer/songwriter. He isn't too pushy and he lets me do my own thing,
and he really believes in my music which is why I signed a CD
contract with him.

Truthfully, I sing to get my feelings out, and to feel good inside,
and sometimes for no other reason than just to keep myself company
when I'm alone. That's enough for me. I'm not planning on making it
big, I don't think I would enjoy that ride anyway, I'm too
introverted and honestly I'm happy where I now stand. I love to
travel but I ain't the tour-bus type.

I have a wonderful husband, Jeff Hightower. He also has a spot here
at myspace, to visit him here, click here. Also, he is a music
columnist for nashvillerock.net. He has interviewed some wonderful
musicians such as Jeff Healey and John Cafferty, and is in the
process of interviewing Lisa Loeb. Check out his column and say
hello, tell him his wife sent ya. He's a good man.

If you want to know more about me then take a stroll over to my
website, goodness knows it gets lonely over there:

~*~Hear all the songs on "Dreams for the Broken" and "Soul Searching"
at CDBaby.com

~*~Click here to purchase an autographed copy of my new CD "Soul
Searching" for $8.50

If you're iTunes friendly, "Dreams for the Broken" and "Soul
Searching" are both there now available there as well, courtesy of
Lost Cat Records.


okay to blatant spamming advertisers please know this: If you send me
a private message and I don't know you and you are just promoting
your music and don't say anything at all about me in your message, in
a manner that is spam-like, well here's the thing I probably will
just delete it without listening to your music because that really
ticks me off when people do that.

I LOVE finding great new music, it is quite an addiction for me,
however I also like to connect with people on a much higher level
than being the obvious recipient of a bulk spam message that doesn't
even say Dear Serena...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SINGERS SEARCHING FOR SONGS

By: Jennifer McGrew
E-mail: JENNIFERMCGREW@...

Address: po box 3386
Telephone: 281-250-7055

Subject: aspiring singer looking for songs

Comment:
I am a young woman with a powerful voice. I am looking for
songwriters that have songs that have not been published for my demo.

SINGERS SEARCHING FOR SONGS

By: David
E-mail: dave@...

Title: Band Manager

Subject: Looking for country songs

Comment:
Looking for country songs. Well established country cover band ready
to take that next step. Seeking something modern. Great opportunity
for song writer willing to take a chance. Got a great song that you
think fits us? Lets talk! Below are a few url's for demo's recorded
live utilizing one microphone and a Tascam Porta Studio.
http://www.thenighttrainband.com/demos/turn_the_page.mp3
http://www.thenighttrainband.com/demos/freebird.mp3
http://www.thenighttrainband.com/demos/marie_lavoux.mp3
http://www.thenighttrainband.com/demos/bring_it_on_home.mp3
http://www.thenighttrainband.com/demos/stand_by_me.mp3


SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS

envisionseminar@... writes:
Ande,

Thanks for the advice.  I will work on the article and check the
website.  Very appreciated.

I am working on a country rock album with an independent Iowa-based
label very interested in working with me.  They have affiliates in LA
and Nashville.  I've been performing in Iowa for 15 years.  I was
lead vocalist and founder of a country rock band for over 8 years,
and have performed with a couple of rock bands along the way.  I'm
going solo and this album will be cut with studio musicians rather
than an organized band.



My vocal sound and style is versatile and energetic.  I'm known not
only for my upbeat stage presence but my ability to bring a ballad to
life.  People have likened my tonal quality and range to Wynonna
Judd, JoDee Messina, Terri Clark, Reba MacEntire, Trisha Yearwood,
Faith Hill, and Shania Twain.  My band opened for the likes of Joe
Diffie, Ricky Van Shelton, and Jeff Carson.  We were the featured
band for a national classic balloon festival in our area that draws
over 10,000 people every year, for four years straight, a national
rodeo event held in Iowa, as well as the National Quarterhorse Expo.
I have won 3 vocal competitions in the Iowa/Nebraska area. An
original piece I wrote a few years back was featured on an Iowa radio
station. I do write some of my own work and I am looking for material
that has “top 40” quality.  The album project I am working on is
for sales distribution and I intend to put a publicity/marketing tour
together once the album is completed.  I am looking for material that
is unique, and has a good hook. I am open to the possibilities and
would particularly like to hear material that has a good story and
empowers the listener.


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jason Blume has a new Book

Billboard Books presents
Jason Blume's This Business of Songwriting,
the newest in their #1 best-selling "This Business of ...." series.
Pre-order your copy today!

Retail: $24.95

Order an autographed copy today for $21.95
with FREE SHIPPING (in the US)

PRE-ORDER AND SAVE $5.90

The first book to demystify the process of doing business as a
songwriter.

Includes samples of virtually every contract a songwriter would ever
likely encounter  and Translates each paragraph from legalese into
plain English. Includes:


SINGLE SONG PUBLISHING AGREEMENT
STAFF-WRITING CONTRACT
MECHANICAL LICENSE
COLLABORATORS AGRMT
TV/FILM SYNC LICENSE
CO-PUBLISHING AGRMT
ADMINISTRATION AGRMT
COPYRIGHT FORM
FOREIGN SUB-PUBLISHING

The book also explains: how to successfully do business as a
songwriter; how to pitch your songs; how to get a publisher �" and
why; performance rights organizations; understanding and monitoring
royalties; placing music in TV and films, AND MUCH MORE.

To  receive your autographed copy as soon as it is released, contact
Neil Rice at JBSongdoc1@... or 615-665-2381. Check out the
additional songwriting products at http://www.jasonblume.com/. For
Mastercard or Visa orders, I'll need the card number, expiration
date, and three digit security code. Mail orders (charge, check, or
money order) should be sent to:

Moondream Music
PMB 352
9 Music Square South
Nashville, TN 37203-3203


Jason Blume has created songwriting's Rosetta Stone.  Encyclopedic in
scope, This Business of Songwriting unravels industry enigmas and
firmly imparts a sense of direction to tomorrow's hit makers.
  -  Paul Corbin, VP  BMI Writer/Publisher Relations

*    *    *

  If you are serious about being a professional writer, Jason has
compiled the most comprehensive how-to guide I have ever read. All
the way from getting a writing deal to understanding it once you get
one. This is a must read!

  - Tom Luteran, Director of A&R, EMI Music Publishing


*    *    *

Author/songwriter Jason Blume has produced one of the most
comprehensive, no-nonsense, true-to-life guides for understanding and
succeeding in the highly competitive world of professional
songwriting and music publishing. For anyone seriously considering a
career in professional songwriting, This Business of Songwriting is
the quintessential resource you don't want to be without.
  - Kirk Boyer, Director, A&R, Disney/Lyric Street Records


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IFS reader Gina Fant Saez has started a new company for professional
musicians and producers called essession.com, the Austin paper ran an
article about it.

http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/technology/
05/3esession.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Special Event!

NSAI, NYC

presents

hit Nashville songwriter

DAVE BERG



#1 for Reba with Somebody
Top-5 for Ty Herndon with I Want My Goodbye Back
Critically-acclaimed alt rock singer-songwriter
Cal IV staff writer in Nashville
Rising on the charts NOW (#26 last week, this week #23!) with
If You're Going Through Hell by Curb recording artist, Rodney Atkins
Other singles by Tracy Byrd and Aaron Lines
Cuts by Ronnie Milsap, Lorrie Morgan, Sammy Kershaw, Terri Clark,
Tracy Lawrence and Meredith Brooks
Upcoming cuts by Emerson Drive, Sarah Buxton and Gary Nichols
First-place winner in International Songwriting Contest AAA Category
First-place winner in USA Songwriting Competition in Rock Category

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------

OPEN MIC/SHOWCASE featuring Dave �" 6 PM, Sunday, May 21st
The Baggot Inn, 82 W. 3rd Street
$5 admission; 2-drink minimum; open to all.
a Bring your acoustic guitar (pick-up preferred); we'll have a
keyboard; sorry, no live-to-track; arrive early to sign up..
SONGWRITING WORKSHOP with Dave 6 PM, Monday, May 22nd

520 8th Avenue, Room 17C

$25 for NSAI, SGA, NAPM members; $35 for non-members

  a For a critique, bring your song on cued tape or CD with track
number marked, along with a typed lyric sheet�"both recording and
lyric sheet must contain your name, phone number and the song name.

To register for the workshop, send a check payable to
NSAI to
Randi Drucker,
17 Wayne Dr.,
Plainview, New York 11803,
including your full name, phone number, e-mail address and
organization affiliation (if any).

For more information:    212/740-2072 or 516/822-7942 <>
stonepulse@... or nashrand@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

got this from Steve Seskin

Sunday, May 7 - In concert with Allen Shamblin at the Throckmorton
Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Avenue in Mill Valley, CA. The show starts
at 7 pm. Tickets are $20 general and $15 students/seniors. For more
info and advance tickets go to www.throckmortontheatre.com or call
415-383-9600.

Friday, May 12 - In Concert with Amy Speace at the Ukiah Players
Theatre, 1041 Low Gap Road in Ukiah, CA. The show starts at 8 pm. For
more info call 707-462-1210

Saturday, May 13 - House Concert in Cotati, CA. For location and more
information, email Matt Kramer at mkramer@...

Saturday, May 20 - benefit for Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue
Foundation. Two solo shows at noon and 2 pm at Broadway Plaza in
Walnut Creek, CA. This show is free - unless you take home a pet, in
which case it will cost plenty but will be well worth every penny.
Call 925-256-1273 or go to www.arf.net for more information.

Wednesday, June 7 - The Kerrville Folk Festival in Kerrville, Texas.
Teacher in-service during the day about Operation Respect. Evening
concert with the Dreamsicles at the Threadgill Theatre. Call 830-257-
3600 for more info.

Friday or Saturday, June 24 or 25 - The San Francisco Free Folk
Festival. I'm not sure what day yet. Details in next email

Sunday, July 16 - Friday, July 21 - Five day Songwriting Seminar with
Pat Pattison, Kathy Mattea and Jon Vezner in beautiful British
Columbia. For more info or to sign up contact Jill Klosowski,
REO Rafting Resort (jill@...) or call 604-461-7238 or 800-
736-7238.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Songwriter AMANDA GHOST is grateful she co-wrote JAMES BLUNT's
phenomenally successful single YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL, because otherwise
she might never have revitalised her stagnant career.

Ghost was nominated for two Ivor Novello awards last week
(ends28APR06), for co-writing the song, after years of unsuccessfully
trying to break into the music industry.

And now she finds herself in high demand.  Ghost says, "Nobody
thought I could write a song. 'Oh, she's got a great voice but she
can't write a hit. We need somebody who can write a hit, then it will
be fine.'

"Now I'm written one, and everyone's saying, 'Great songwriter, can
she be an artist?'
"I've been an artist all my life. I'm being asked to write with all
these humongous stars, and I won't do it unless I think they're
great. I'm not a musical whore. How soulless would that be?
"I'd hate to be called a professional songwriter." (FA/WNSTIS/GES)

Entertainment News by: www.pr-inside.com
Contact information: e-mail



http://www.pr-inside.com/blunt-songwriters-career-boost-r3861.htm

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.ascap.com/about/specialawardsinfo.html

ASCAPLUS is an awards program that provides cash and recognition to:

1) Active writers in the early and mid stages of their careers, and

2) To established writers whose main activity is outside of broadcast
media.


WHO IS ELIGIBLE
The ASCAPLUS Awards Program is for writer members of any genre whose
performances are primarily in venues not surveyed; and/or writer
members whose catalogs have prestige value for which they would not
otherwise be compensated.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE
To be considered for an ASCAPLUS Award, complete the application
form. All applications must be postmarked by JUNE 1.

WHO DETERMINES AWARDS
ASCAPLUS Awards are determined annually by a panel of distinguished
music experts who are neither members, nor employees of ASCAP, and
are completely independent in their Award adjudication.

HOW AWARDS ARE DETERMINED
ASCAPLUS Awards are based on panel review of recent activity of
writer applicants. Each applicant is considered on merit and in the
context of all others applying. ASCAPLUS is not a contest or
competition involving the critical evaluation of any specific work or
works. The primary basis for panel determinations is the activity
generated by each member's catalog, with emphasis on recent
performances.

Please take a few moments to review the Application Form and
Guidelines.
If you qualify, we encourage you to apply.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: JUNE 1





ELIGIBILITY
The ASCAPLUS Awards Program is available to those writers who earn
less than $25,000 in annual domestic performance royalties.

AREAS REVIEWED BY DIVISION


Concert: Symphonic, Chamber, Operatic, Choral, Electronic, Liturgical
(formal), Educational, Solo Vocal and Instrumental, etc. (Concert
performance information should be sent timely to the Concert Music
Department. Performances in non-traditional venues such as clubs,
restaurants, etc., should be listed on the application form.)


Jazz: All styles of music within the jazz idiom, including jazz works
used in educational settings.


Popular: Pop, Rock, Rap, Reggae, R&B, Dance/Techno, Folk, Country,
Bluegrass, Latin, Hawaiian, World, Gospel/Contemporary Christian, New
Age, Musical Theatre, Cabaret, Works for Children, etc.

HOW TO APPLY


Select ONE division to review your activity, in accordance with the
outline above. If you have activity in more than one area, select the
panel that represents the majority of your performances to consider
your application.


All information should be typed or printed CLEARLY.


Include your name exactly as it appears on ASCAP records.


DO NOT refer to your website in lieu of providing the information
requested on the form.


ASCAPLUS Awards are made on an annual basis, therefore, report only
activity which has taken place over the past year. Be sure to
complete the Awards application form in as much detail as possible.
DO NOT include information that has been previously submitted.


Please summarize your performance activity on the application form.
DO NOT submit programs, flyers, or other printed material as a
substitute for a performance summary. Supplementary materials should
be limited to a small, representative sample. Supplementary materials
will NOT be returned unless specifically requested at the time of
submission. Unsolicited scores and recordings will not be reviewed by
the panel.

PAYMENT OF AWARDS
ALL AWARDS WILL BE PAID IN FULL IN THE JANUARY DISTRIBUTION.

* Note: all information submitted for awards consideration is used
solely within that context. it is not a substitute for registering
works with our repertory department, or for advising the society of
performances which may be credited through the surveys.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande Rasmussen
Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this issue finds you well.

I've started working on a couple new projects

The first is called

What the Artist Actually Heard

~ ~ ~

Are you a Songwriter with Major Label Cuts?

"What the Artist Actually Heard" was created by Ande Rasmussen the
editor and publisher of "Inspirations for Songwriters" /
www.SongWriterBlog.com.  Ande is collecting demo recordings of the
actual demos major label artists heard that made them decide to cut
particular songs.

At this point his plan is to:
Listen to them,
Study them,
Write about them in his ezine www.SongWriterBlog.com, and
Play them at songwriting events so beginning songwriters can hear
the same demos the artists heard,
Beginning songwriters need to know, how great their
songs and demos need to be

songwriters can email one mp3 at a time to
AndeRasmussen@...
IN THE SUBJECT FIELD WRITE
IFS WAAH
or
mail CD's and info to

Ande Rasmussen
835 martindale falls
martindale, tx 78655

Please include info about the Demo's

Song Title
cowriters
artist who cut it
Date written and date cut
CD it was on
how it the song did on the charts (if it was a single)
Publishers
songwriter contact info
Story behind the song
Story behind getting it cut
any other info you'd like to add

Thank you!

Ande Rasmussen
Please let other songwriters with cuts know

I've gotten a few so far and sincerely thank the writers who have
contributed.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


The other project I'm working on is

The Central Texas IFS Music Business Network

We all love music but for most of us, the income we make from our
music isn't enough to make ends meet, so many of us have day jobs.
like the book says:

Should I Do What I love
or
Do What I What I do
So I Can Do What I Love on the Side?

One way each of us can help songwriters and artists is to do
business with them, do business with them in music related areas and
do business with them in their day jobs, many musicans are self
employed and you might be able to help musicians and songwriters by
choosing to do business with them.

so I'm going to build a directory / referral list of Austin /
Central Texas
songwriters,
musicians,
Music Industry Businesses,
businesses who are music friendly or
run by musicians
That are IFS Readers / members

Even if you are a waiter, I want your info and updates:
Let people know who you are and what you do
People can ask for you to serve them

If you are an IFS member
if you'd like to be included
Send me your info
(i'm going to verify you are an IFS reader)

your email should contain

your name
Music Category
your music offerings
Music contact info / how to engage you for your music services

Your day job / business
Location / Contact info
Elevator speech: (a very brief interesting compelling creative
statement of who you are and what you do)

like as an example yesterday at the Grammy Event I had a chance to
visit with Chelle Murray and I found out she has a book keeping
business. I NEVER KNEW THAT

So her Entry in this directory would be:


Chelle Murray
Music: Singer Songwriter
www.ChelleMurray.com
Day Job: Book Keeper, Organizer, Planner, Administrator
www.RockerGirlBookKeeping.com
chelle@...
512-422-1520


I found out that Sara Hickman has a design business

Sara Hickman
www.SaraHickman.com
443 2147
StingRay Design
Graphic Design for CD covers


It will list traditional music businesses Like

Gary Powell
Producer
www.GaryPowell.com

Layne Lauritzen
CPA
www.MusicCPA.com

So if you'd like to be included and
you are an IFS member

Send me your info

Email:
AndeRasmussen@...
in the subject field write
IFS Net

I'll build this and put the info somewhere on the web.
It's bound to lead to cool things for those who are on it.
People just need to know
Who you are and What you do
Then at some point when someone needs what you do or offer
you might get the business.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Yesterday I attend Grammy Career Day and facilitated on 2
SongWriting Workshops with Connie Mims, Sara Hickman, and Chelle
Murray.

Below is the press release the Grammy org sent out to Media
contacts.

Below that you'll find some of my notes and recollections.


GRAMMY PRESS RELEASE:

AUSTIN AND BUDA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS GAIN PERSPECTIVE ON THE MUSIC
INDUSTRY AT GRAMMY� CAREER DAY ON APRIL 27th

Industry Professionals to Offer Candid Career Close-Ups at GRAMMY
Foundation Program Presented by the Texas Chapter of the Recording
Academy�

WHO: The GRAMMY Foundation, the Texas Chapter of the Recording
Academy and fine arts students from Jack C. Hays High School, the
Academy at Hays, Albert S. Johnston High School, and James Bowie
High School.

WHAT: Music industry professionals based in Texas will share
potential career paths with high school students who are interested
in the entertainment business.

Panelists include

Casey Monahan
director of the Texas Music Office;

George Sanger
video game music composer;

Troupe Gammage
film and video game music composer and current high school student;

Danny Levin
founding member of Tequila Mockingbird;

Chris Bell
GRAMMY- nominated engineer;

Christine Albert
self-managed vocalist and musician,

Craig Calvert
co-founder of the Austin Songwriters Group,

Maureen Doherty
entertainment attorney/industry veteran,

Sara Hickman
artist and producer,

Connie Mims
performer and songwriter,

Monte Warden
singer/songwriter,

Fred Remmert
engineer,

George Oldziey
orchestrator and score composer/producer, and

Carlos Sosa
arranger/composer/producer/artist.

Students will be given a once in a lifetime chance to learn about
the day-to-day business of music from these industry professionals.
After being given an overview of all aspects of the music industry
in a super panel, students will split up into interactive workshops
depending on their specific interests. The workshops will be:
Recording In The Studio (Engineering and Sound);
Songcrafters & Tunesmiths;
The Business of Music: Management & Music Law; and
Music in Film, Games, and Advertising.

Students will be treated to a closing performance by Boombox, a
prominent Texas hip-hop band.

WHERE: Hays CISD Performing Arts Center
979 Kohler's Krossing
Kyle, Texas 78640

WHEN: Thursday, April 27, 2006
9:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.     Orientation/Super Panels
10:35 a.m. - 11:35 a.m.     Workshop Session I
11:40 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.     Lunch
12:15 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.       Workshop Session II
1:20 p.m. -  2:00p.m.       Closing Performance

ADD'L INFO: The GRAMMY Foundation was founded in 1989 to cultivate
the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution
recorded music has made to American culture --- from the artistic
and technical legends of the past to the still unimagined musical
breakthroughs of the future generations of music professionals. The
Foundation accomplishes this mission through programs and activities
designed to engage the music industry and cultural community as well
as the general public. The Foundation works in partnership year-
round with the Recording Academy and its regional offices to bring
national attention to important issues such as the value and impact
of music and arts education and the urgency of preserving our rich
cultural legacy. For more information about the Foundation and its
programs, please visit www.grammy.com/foundation.

The Texas Chapter of the Recording Academy serves as a direct
connection between the national organization and its regional
members. The Chapter reaches out to the regional music community of
Texas through professional development and networking events, health
and human services, advocacy initiatives, and music education
programs for students including GRAMMY In The Schools.

Contact:

Theresa Jenkins
The Recording Academy, Texas Chapter
512.328.7997
theresaj@...

~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~

Here's a few of my notes from the Grammy event
written by Ande Rasmussen

before the event started I spoke with Monte Warden, I sure admire
how he's always willing to help with these kind of events.

I asked Monte what he's been up to.
He first told me
"I'm trying to find something new that rhymes with love."

Then he let me know that BMI recently awarded him and his publisher
wife Brandi, with Millionaire awards because their song Desperately
received over 1,000,000 radio plays. Monte told me he has a few
holds with various artists in Nashville.  He's making trips there
about one week out of each month. He's been cowriting with Jon
Randall, Phillip White, Odie Blackmon, and Wake Eastman to mention a
few.

He also told me about the importance of REPITCHING
Pitching the same song (that you really believe in) to the same
producer or artist. Sometimes a particular song won't work on one
project, but will fit on another.  He also mentioned you need to
show up if you want to win.

Then the Event started with the super panel moderated by Casey
Monahan who works in the Governors Texas Music office
www.EnjoyTexasMusic.com, Casey asked people to talk about mistakes
they've made

Monte: Said that he used to not listen to commercial music.
But now he does, because that is what people are buying
a hit song can put your grandkids through college
perpetuity

Sonny Sauceda: have a good manager to run your business

George Sanger: Taste limits your world

Fred Remmert: I bought equipment too quickly, I paid off the things
I bought then years later got the things I needed to improve sonic
quality. It's not OK to get wasted in the studio. Stay away from all
that crap. It slows you down.

MC Overlord: My biggest mistake was thinking it was going to be
easy.
be extremely dedicated
put everything you have into it
Athletes practice
Keep working
Keep getting better

Sara Hickman rattled off a list:
find opportunities to expand
find like minded go getters who share your vision
get a business manager, lawyer, assistants
network all the time
accept constructive criticism
Right to say NO: a director of my music video asked me to be naked
and painted blue in a video scene
be unique
be prepared to spend your own money for a long time
don't be afraid to cross market
don't be afraid to ask
learn about and understand all aspects of the music business

Troupe Gammage:
I have a tendancy to say yes too often and accept projects I don't
really have time for
he first started out trying to collaborate with his heros, they
turned him down so he worked for 4 years with his friend, he
improved and now he's working with some impressive folks

Maureen Doherty:
Because she's a lawyer she didn't get into her mistakes but talked
about how to help clients avoid making mistakes.
Go where the business is
Help people protect themselves from themselves
If someone wants you to sign something have and attorney look it
over before you sign.
NETWORK
the people you know open doors and help you get to your next level

Monte Warden chimed in:
You must be present to win.
Go where they are

Casey Monahan: Said you can start in Austin but you probably won't
end in Austin

Ed Baily from ACL
learn to make a bigger space for the artist
help art flourish
become an enabler
appreciate the power of ART
take yourself out of the spotlight and help those who are

then they asked if anyone had questions
Hannah from San Antonio said, I went to Nashville, wrote a few
songs, recorded 3 demos, my parents spent $5,000 but I'm just not
feeling it.

MC Overlord said
If you're not feeling it
Nobody else is either.

Monte: suggested she explore the great album cuts that were never
singles.

Another student asked:
Should I go to college.

Every panelist said YES

Monte added Belmont and MSU offer strong music programs

Maureen Doherty told the students they need to leanr how to manage
their money and function in the business aspects of music.

the superpanel ended and folks Dave told the students to check out
www.grammyIntheSchools.com

I very much enjoyed the events, had a blast in the songwriting
workshops and I encourage you to get involved with helping out your
local grammyintheschools events.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Yesterday at the Grammy event, I spoke with Christine Albert and she
told me about her latest project.

http://swansongs.org

Swan Songs is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit community based project
designed to organize private concerts for individuals and families
struggling with life threatening illness.  Patients have the
opportunity to request a favorite style of music or specific Austin,
Texas area musician.  By bringing live music directly to the home,
hospital or hospice facility, Swan Songs helps to create a healing
and comforting environment in the face of catastrophic illness.

Christine Albert - Executive Director
P.O. Box 41021
Austin, TX  78704
512-416-SWAN
fax: 512-707-1763
email: info@...

Christine told me, that in the past a few dying patients requested
that she play for them and their friends. She found the work very
rewarding.  She told me she wanted the musicians to get paid.  She
created the organization and built a strong board.

Soon SwanSongs is doing a few fund raising events in the near
future. I'll let you know about them.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tuesday May 4th is the
Nashville Star Final show
They will announce the Winner


Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

Does anyone ever read IFS to the VERY END?

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well.

Tonight Nashville Star Reveals it's top 3 and TONIGHTS VOTE
determines the WINNER,  I give my support to:
CHRIS YOUNG
I believe Casey Rivers will be runner up and Matt Mason will be
second runner up.
The show comes on tonight at 9:00 CST on the USANetwork which I
think is cable channel 66 in the Austin Area
VOTING BEGINS 10:00 CST
http://www.usanetwork.com/series/nashvillestar
http://www.myspace.com/chrisyoungmusic

plus john Arthur will be there as well
here's what he wrote me

Nashville, TN, Nashville Star 9 P.M. (I'll be in the audience as
guest of producers) and Nashville Star   Alumni After Party at
Gibson Guitar Stage (I'll be performing with my old friends from
Nashville Star and NS Band) at Opryland 10:00 P.M. Tickets at door.


I'm still enjoying MYSPACE and my site is approaching 2,000 friends.
I've found some incredibly talented songwriters and artists and I've
had a few singers contact me about using some of the songs I've
cowritten.
Send me a FRIEND INVITE
Read and Subscribe to my Blog
Check out my top 8
Explore my friend list, find singers and songs you love
www.myspace.com/anders
NOT www.myspace.com/ande <~~~ this address is NOT me

like
http://www.myspace.com/terranaomi
really impresses me

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IFS readers This thought arrived the other day as I was driving
through Wimberly Texas:

Ordinary?

As songwriters we put a spotlight on ordinary moments, situations
and stories. We describe them in ways no one else ever has before.
We work on our songs.

Sometimes we get lucky and our songs seem to drop down from Heaven
like gifts that we transcribe, but more often than not, songs arrive
in bits and pieces.  It's like we're trying to solve a difficult
puzzle.  We agonize over each note and word till we love them and
find the courage to stamp DONE on on this new song.

Then we reveal them to our unsuspecting listeners with conviction
and emotion, hopefully the combination lyrics, vocal melody and
music moves them in unexpected and satisfying ways.

Through this process we realize, what we thought was ordinary isn't.
It is sacred. Songs are our gifts to the world.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's a Opportunity for songwriters and artists to earn money and
gain exposure.


https://www.trusonic.com/artists.html

New Artists

If you are already a Trusonic Independent artist, sign in now to
access your Artist Admin area. Artist Admin allows you to:

Upload songs for review
Administer existing songs
Create new Artists that you administer
Trusonic is always on the lookout for fresh upcoming acts with
artistic vision and control of their own content. If you would like
to upload your music to Trusonic for consideration, click here to
sign up.

Here is what some of our Artists have to say about Trusonic:

"Part of the NEW music business, Trusonic provides national exposure
and creates an invaluable opportunity for independent artists to be
both heard and paid for their work."
Cindy Alexander
Trusonic Independent Artist
www.cindyalexander.com

"Trusonic is very cool! I can't tell you how many times people all
around the country have contacted me saying they heard my songs in
retail stores while shopping. It's also a little money I wouldn't
otherwise be seeing with no extra effort on my part."
Michael Brandmeier
Trusonic Independent Artist
www.michaelbrandmeier.com

"Trusonic without a doubt represents a valuable and viable way for
an artist to have their music heard".
Curtis S.D. Macdonald
Trusonic Independent Artist
www.ampcast.com/CurtisSDMacdonald

"I like Trusonic because it is non-exclusive, and it puts my music
out into new places that I have never been. And they pay me!"
George Kahn
Trusonic Independent Artist
www.georgekahn.com


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This Email arrived regarding the
Create a Ripple Story
I shared in the last IFS Issue.

Dear Ande,

  You stated "this next article doesn't reflect my political beliefs
it's just songwriting news"  I don't know who wrote it and I don't
know why you feel that it was important songwriting news. I think
the comments regarding how  the person feels about the President
were very inappropriate. There are many of  us who feel completely
opposite of what was stated. Perhaps according to the election 3
million more. We just choose to not make too many waves about it.
It is offensive to a lot of people and this is not the forum to be
voicing it. I think the President has done what he thinks needs to
be done. And from most accounts I hear that our soldiers fighting
this war are 100% behind him,  just as many of us are. We know a few
soldiers who are in Iraq and they want to be there. They do not feel
that are pawns. I think if someone  wants to write a  song about
how they feel about it, that is their right ... but to make the
remarks made to all who subscribe to this newsletter to read,
thinking that we all feel that way is wrong.  I would not have
included that article in the newsletter, it feels like a very
political statement and it sours the whole newsletter.

Thank you,

Debbie

~ ~ ~

Here was my response:


Dear debbie,

You are entitled to your opinion

I sometimes feature songs that make an impact.

The story is about the creation of 2 politically charged songs
written that were written questionioning choices our leaders have
made and actions our leaders have taken.  the article chronicles the
stories of

what inspired Neil Young,
what one singer described who was at the recording session and
what another singer (who was also part of the recording session did)
after she left.
The article was called "Create a Ripple"

If you disagree with their point of view, write a song, create
another ripple

Ande

PS   Facts have shown that we never found the weapons of mass
destruction we invaded Iraq to find, months ago we declared victory,
yet, we're still there, americans are dying, and we'll be there for
years to come.   Many more mothers and fathers, wives or husbands,
brothers and sisters and sons and  daughters will hear a knock on
their doors, two soldiers will be waiting to inform them that their
loved one is dead.

Are you happy that "At least 2,378 members of the US military have
died since the war began in March 2003" and "At least 17,648 have
been wounded."
http://www.boston.com/news/world/middleeast/articles/2006/04/20/ameri
can_deaths/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS

Hi Ande!

My name is Alison Nolan, and I just recently saw your post about
singers searching for songs. So, I am going to take a crack at
writing an effective singer searching for songs blurb. (c:

To get to the point, I am a singer who just graduated college, and I
am really just starting in the music scene. I spent most of college
singing show tunes and jazz, and recently have broken into
classical, madrigal and some traditional tunes. During college I
made a demo, which, unfortunately I didn't get to spend enough time
with. The demo turned out okay, but I never felt that it got enough
love in the studio. There are some pitch problems, and a lot of
problems with the accompaniment. I think I made every mistake I
could have in creating my first demo (not rehearsed well enough, not
enough time spent on the project, etc). So, I don't feel I really
have a product worth showing people in the industry.

Because I just graduated, and the loan payments will be starting
soon, I am not looking to hurry into a project. However, I am always
looking for songs to include in a future project; whether that be
one I produce myself (full release or demo), or one that I create
through a label or another producer.

More about me: I am from the Twin Cities (Minnesota), I am 23 years
old, and I have a website which I have created myself.
www.alisonnolan.com I have a friend who is doing some design for me,
but because he is still in college, the finished product is slow in
the coming. On my site you can listen to a few live samples of my
voice, and see a few videos. I also have my demo songs online, but I
prefer to give those links out on an individual basis to those who
ask. I did not pay for the rights to these songs, and it would be
wrong to distribute them freely. Plus, I would prefer that someone
hear me live rather than in my first awkward studio experience.

My influences in music came from two people; Linda Eder and Bette
Midler. I have a very powerful belt, and a very large range. I
prefer to sing in my alto range and in the belt, but am working hard
on the soprano portion of my voice with lessons.

The types of songs I am looking for would most likely be classified
as "easy listening". However, I am open to any style that someone
thinks I could do well with. I don't believe in just sticking with
one genre for my whole life. Give me a rock song you think I could
sing, and you better believe I'll try it. Same with country, folk,
pop, etc. The only genre of music I'm not interested would be rap.

If anyone wanted to send me songs, the best way would be by e-mail.
However, I am currently awaiting a song by snail mail, and would
gladly give out my address for such purposes through a private e-
mail. My e-mail address is alison@....

Again, I would like to stress that I don't have any projects in the
works, and I am not in a hurry to find songs, but I would like to
put myself and my interest out there so that when I do have the
money and time to put into a production that I can spring right into
it.

I hope that included anything. Feel free to ask me anything I may
have left out. And thanks for the opportunity you are giving to
singers. It's great to know that theres someone out there working
for us.

-Alison Nolan
www.alisonnolan.com
alison@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


MUSIC IN FILM & TV WORKSHOP

Harriet Schock, Award Winning Songwriter
www.harrietschock.com

MONDAY, MAY 1st 6-9PM
Brook Mays Music 3940 Pipestone Rd. Dallas, TX 75212
$45,                                 $35 Members
Please RSVP to info@..., Space is limited,
Pay at the door with cash or check, or in the DSA store with credit
card.

Harriet just wrote all the music for Henry Jaglom's wonderful new
film,
"Going Shopping" which opened September 30! For information on it,
and to hear part of the opening song, go to:
http://www.goingshopping-themovie.com/ See a screening of "Going
Shopping" at the USA Film Festival in Dallas on April 30, 5PM.
NorthPark Center is 8080 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75206.
Tickets for the film are $8. Q&A afterwards.

Tuesday, May 2, 2006 8:00PM-Harriet Schock in concert
                                                      Andrea Ross-
Greene singing backup
Poor David's Pub 1313 South Lamar St., Dallas, Texas 75215 $15.00

Harriet Schock wrote the words and music to the Grammy-nominated #1
hit for Helen Reddy, "Ain't No Way To Treat A Lady" plus many songs
for other artists including Nancy Wilson, Smokey Robinson, Lee
Greenwood, Carl Anderson, Gloria Loring, Manfred Mann and the Little
Mermaid. Her songs have been featured in numerous films and TV
shows, including "The New Adventures of Pippi
Longstocking, " "Matters of the Heart," "Berry Gordy's The Last
Dragon," "Baby Geniuses II," "Delta Force II," and the
animated "Secret Garden."  Currently she has a PBS series theme
song, "Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks" playing weekly (and
nominated for 4 Emmys) and two cuts on the new Jeannie Kendall album
All The Girls I Am, one of which was nominated for hot AC single of
the year by New Music Weekly. Her fourth, fifth and sixth CDs,
American Romance, Rosebud and Harriet Schock - Live from Fairfax to
Pasadena are in national release, as well as her book, BECOMING
REMARKABLE: For Songwriters And Those Who Love Songs.    She
recently scored the new Henry Jaglom film, "Going Shopping," which
was released in September currently being screened at the USA Film
Festival in Dallas. Harriet is currently scoring his
film, "Hollywood Dreams". She also won a Dramalogue award for her
live show which she has performed worldwide. She teaches songwriting
for the Songwriters Guild of America, as well as privately and by
correspondence. For her performance schedule, list of credits and
samples of her work or information on her songwriting consultation,
go to www.harrietschock.com.

We're so lucky to find out at the last minute that Harriet is
planning to be in Dallas and will do a workshop for us. Also, It was
good of Julie Romeo ( 214 631-0928 x80446 julieromeo@...)
at Brook Mays to find us a room at this late date. At the last
meeting, many of you expressed interest in this workshop. I know you
will enjoy it. It's been about 10 years since we've had a workshop
with Harriet. The last one was really super. Folks couldn't quit
talking about it.  To those of you who do not live in Dallas,
forgive me for teasing you, and for sending this email, but we
didn't know about this soon enough to get into the monthly email,
sorry  - Barbe

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


The NSAI chapter is opening this event up to all songwriters
interested in attending.

When: Wednesday May 17th,  6:30 pm to 8:30pm

Where: The Black Lab, 4100 Montrose, 77006,   713-529-1199

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?
addr=4100+Montrose&csz=77006&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Charge: $10 for non NSAI members.

Dinner:  Order off the menu, (your expense).

RSVP: to guarantee a seat.

We are meeting in the Cezanne room upstairs.

Don is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet.  I'm sure this will
be an informative discussion you won't want to miss.

I hope to see you there.

Dave Bannen

NSAI Houston
http://NSAI-Houston.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Apple iTunes now the ultimate music retailer
http://www.itwire.com.au/content/view/4000/937/

UMG executive says gift cards fueling digital music

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jennifer Applequist "Beautiful Life"
http://www.myspace.com/jennifermusic

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Susie Suh impressed the heck out of me, plus he worked with Glen
Ballard.

  On Susie Suh's self-titled debut from Epic Records, the soulful
singer-songwriter takes listeners on an emotional journey. Forging
her own path, Suh brings her introspective songs to life by boiling
each of them down to their essence. "I wanted this first album to be
as honest and sincere as possible with the intent focused around my
voice, guitar and words."

The album's organic instrumentation complements Suh's smoky voice,
tender delivery and gift for melody, which gives these 10 deeply
personal songs an air of intimacy and a timeless appeal. Recorded
over an eight-month period at various studios in California, SUSIE
SUH was produced by Grammy Award-winner Glen Ballard (Alanis
Morissette, Michael Jackson, No Doubt) and engineered and mixed by
Scott Campbell (Dave Matthews, Shelby Lynne).

"There is a world-weary and wise power in her burnished amber
voice," Ballard says. "These stories come from a woman impossibly
young to communicate so much experience, with the sexual urgency and
poignancy of a Billie Holiday and the lyrical clarity of a John
Cheever short story. I feel like every drop of every line is oozing
from her pores, no crocodile tears, no excess musical or verbal
baggage. I'm mesmerized by her ability to express the ineffable in
her lyrics and by her ability to capture the human heart in conflict
with itself. There is shade and dappled sunlight in her landscapes
of the soul, but ultimately hope of love, of fulfillment, of
connection."

ALBUM AVAILABLE on iTunes | Rhapsody | Real | Napster | Walmart

WANT TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT SUSIE SUH? Cut and paste the
banner code in the boxes below and insert it into anything that is
HTML compatible. Thank you!

  http://www.myspace.com/susiesuh

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Got this note from john arthur martinez

**April 25 '06 Nashville, TN, Nashville Star 9 P.M. (I'll be in the
audience as guest of producers) and Nashville Star   Alumni After
Party at Gibson Guitar Stage (I'll be performing with my old friends
from Nashville Star and NS Band) at Opryland 10:00 P.M. Tickets at
door.

April 28, '06 Private Party Thurman Mansion, Salt Lick, Austin,

April 29-30 '06 Featured artist at Benini Art Gallery, Sat. 1:30 &
3:30 P.M., Sun. 1:30 P.M. www.ArtsEncountersatBeninis.com

April 30, '06 Johnson City, TX, The Silver K, 209 East Main St.
(U.S. 290) 11-2:00

April 30, '06 Sunrise Beach, TX WCR Scholarship Fundraiser at Lost
Creek Vineyards, 4-6, show at 5 P.M. contact: Zina at: 830-265-0310,
zina@..., bring lawn chairs please.

April 30, '06 Austin, TX Benefit for Correa family 9:00 P.M. H & H
Ballroom, 4402 Brandt Road, Austin 78744



Here are a few details...

Cruise Dates  Feb 5-10, 2007 (5 Day Cruise)
Leaves from Miami...visits Key West and Grand Cayman and has 2
relaxing days at sea.

At present, the cost of the cruise is as follows;

Inside stateroom $479
Outside stateroom $599
Balcony stateroom $719
These prices are the current and may change in the future.
All food and entertainment is included.
Port charges are included.
At the time you book the cruise a $100/per person deposit will
reserve your cabin.
You pay only for acoholic drinks, Off ship sightseeing Tours
packages and Tips and your transportation to and from the port of
Miami.

The ship is going into dry dock to be refitted to add 130 balconies
in April so it should be beautifully appointed and look like new.

Do not book this cruise directly with Celebrity, We are working with
a travel agent who has set up special pricing should we want to
proceed.

Here are a couple links which will help you decide..

The Century

http://www.celebritycruises.com/plancruise/ships/ship.do?shipCode=CN

The Itinerary

http://www.celebritycruises.com/search/vacationSearchResults.do;jsess
ionid=0000_90h4WrLXPtkYpg5jdQq9Uy:1051tg3ld?
dest=ANY&date=200701&ship=CN&price=ANY&x=10&y=4

Russ

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

just a reminder to watch
Nashville Star at
9:00 pm CST
this coming
Tuesday April 25th on the
USANetwork Cable Channel (channel 66 where I live)

my favorite and my votes go to:

Chris Young
http://www.myspace.com/chrisyoungmusic


Ande

Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well. Last night we had a big hail
storm, our house and pets faired well.

Here's some info you might find useful

Enjoy,

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

(this next article doesn't reflect my political beleifs it's just
songwriting news)


Neil Young attended this years South by Southwest Music Conference
in Austin. Roland Swenson, the SXSW boss asked Neil for a favor.
Roland told Neil "We need another song." (about the Bush
administration and its current war.

Neil Young wrote it and recently recorded a song called "Impeach the
President" that will be on his new CD coming out soon.

Some of the songs on the CD have a 100-voice choir, according to a
California singer who sang on it.
http://lastleftb4hooterville.blogspot.com/2006/04/i-am-luckiest-girl-
in-world.html

  In Neil's keynote interview he let folks know "he had been hearing
giant, noisy guitars in his head lately, and that his next album was
likely to be a rock record. And he explained that when inspiration
hits, he clears the decks and drops whatever he's doing to capture
the sound and the mood before it vanishes, comparing his muse to an
animal he's trying to coax out of a hole."

But the story doesn't stop there, here's the story of the singers in
that session.


On April 5th I was asked to be part of a choir that would sing
backup vocals for Neil Young's new album. I was excited, thrilled,
wondered about the money I would make and whether it would help pay
my rent for the coming month.

I had no idea what I was about to experience.

April 6th was the day of the recording. 100 of the finest singers in
Los Angeles gathered at the Capitol Records building in Hollywood.
Studio A. We began a 12 hour recording session that would change me
in many ways.

Neil walked around the studio, singing harmonies that he wanted us
to try... as new lyrics popped up on the screen people cheered,
laughed, clapped ... he had written the words that we all wanted to
say. The album is political, provocative. He held nothing back. And
the fact that he is Neil Young insured that these words would at
least have the chance of being heard.

On our way out of the studio Neil said to me and my friend Franne,

"What we did in here today will create a ripple."

I was overwhelmed, emotional, angry, scared, optimistic - and that
night words flooded my head almost faster than I could write them
down on paper. I laid in bed in the dark with my notebook on the
pillow next to me and scribbled phrases, words, ideas. The following
morning I sat at the piano and wrote this song.

Neil Young and the people who were there that day ignited something
in me. I felt like a vessel blessed to carry these words.

Let me say something very important -

This song is pro-humanity, not anti-government and especially NOT
anti-soldier. The young men and women being used as pawns in a war
we can't win are not at fault in any way and I have the highest
respect for them. I feel that America has been hijacked by a
government with a very specific agenda. We have been beaten into
submission by a campaign of fear. We are looking with apathy at the
rest of the world and we have completely lost sight of the fact the
we are all one. I cannot even say that I hate the President. He is
merely a manifestation of all of us. We created him, we put him in
power.

We have the ability to change the course we seem to be on. We have
the ability to make a difference in the world. We are not beyond
hope. We are not beyond help.

Soon WWW.SOMETHINGGOODTOSHOWYOU.COM will be online. I am partnering
with other like-minded individuals, companies and foundations who
share the same vision - uniting people across the globe through self-
expression and creativity. Uniting to affect change. The website
will pull it all together with multimedia user-generated content.
That means remixes and videos for the song from anyone and everyone.
I encourage people to create and share what we have created.

It is not too late. It is only just beginning...

http://www.myspace.com/somethinggoodtoshowu

http://www.myspace.com/terranaomi

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A few ande Suggestions are:

As songwriters it's our job to chronicle our times and write about
what's going on.

If you have a really great song with a unique title consider getting
a URL for it. own the dot com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

joe@... wrote:
Hi Anders,

My friend Bill Maier down in Nashville suggested I send you a blurb
about
a project I've just begun working on.

I'm seeking demo submissions by women artists for a Neil Young
tribute CD
titled "Cinnamon Girl - Women Artists Cover Neil Young".

I’ve posted info and submission guidelines on my website. Here is
the
direct link:
http://www.americanlaundromatrecords.com/cinnamongirl.html

I'd sincerely appreciate it if you could pass this along to your
network
of musicians and songwriters. I'll be releasing an official press
release
next Wednesday (April 19th). I'm trying to get the word out.

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration. Let me know if
you have
any questions.

All the best,

Joe

Joseph H. Spadaro
Founder & Pres.
American Laundromat Records
P.O. Box 1514
Huntington, NY 11743 USA
www.americanlaundromatrecords.com

it's all about the music!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Volunteers Needed for GRAMMY Career Day

I'm not sure if anyone received my invitation last week regarding
volunteering for the upcoming

GRAMMY Career Day on
Thursday, April 27th,
9:00am to 2:00pm at the
Hays Performing Arts Center in
Kyle, TX.

Sara Hickman and I will be facilitating two songwriter workshops for
senior high students that day.  Other workshops include
recording,
scoring music for advertising, movies, TV and video games;
music business and other events.  We have secured Monte Warden as
our artist/songwriter representative for the "super panel" starting
off the day.  It will be a fun, informative and memorable day for
these young people, and maybe even ourselves.

We wanted to extend the invitation to any ASG members who would like
to help us wrangle about 250+ kids that day in several capacities,
from check-in to herding, to mentoring during the songwriter
workshops.  The perks are a free lunch and the opportunity to share
knowledge and creative inspiration with some young minds.

We'd love to have some more volunteers.
Let me know if you need additional information.

thanks,

Connie Mims Pinkerton
713.628.5625 cell (best)
Board of Governors, Texas Chapter
The Recording Academy
cpinkerton@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ANY ONE KNOW PAUL SCOTT

Andy,

Im looking for a songwriter by the name of Paul Scott. he sent me a
song a
while back, as a reply to the ad you had up for me in your
newsletter. I at
the time chose not to do anything with one of his songs but have
recently
changed my mind. Anyways, I was wondering if I could get his contact
info if
you have it so I can approach him about cutting his song. Thanks and
I love
your newsletter by the way.

Thanks!

Paul Cummings
paul@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Why a Song Catalog Doesn't Go for a Song
New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/16/weekinreview/16basicb.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: "Studio Concerts" Craig Toungate May 20th
From: Gary Powell tickets@...

"Studio Concerts" Craig Toungate May 20th

We are pleased to announce another appearance and performance of
Craig Toungate on May 20th.  As you may have experienced our shows
reach capacity within a couple of days after posting them.  Either
this is a really fun thing to do for everyone or we just don't have
that many seats to sell :).  Maybe it's Amy's cooking?  Whatever it
is, if you are interested, please contact us early.

We're having great fun with this and will be announcing more unique
shows and events soon.  Stay tuned and start practicing, because I
think it's about to get exciting.  Thank you for your participation
and for supporting our artists.  My best.  --- Gary Powell

-----------------------------------------------


Amy will be serving "heavy hors d'oeuvres" before the show with
dessert and coffee at intermission.  Please feel free to bring your
own beer or wine and we'll keep it chilled for you.


For details about all the artists, the experience
or ticket information, please visit:
http://www.studioconcerts.com

Craig Toungate
Vocalist Extradinaire
http://www.craigtoungate.com
Saturday, May 20th - 7:30pm - $75 per person
(Doors Open at 6:30pm)


Come see and experience Austin's most amazing singer in the very
studio where he becomes the voice of some of the world's favorite
characters.  Craig Toungate has international credits on over twenty
album projects being sold in 47 countries.

Meet many of these "voices" and more...in this one extraordinary
singer in concert and "in the studio". - Gary Powell

"Just because no one understands you, doesn't mean you're an artist"

http://www.studioconcerts.com
512-301-0555 (studio)
512-301-0909 (fax)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Strings Attached Closes 5th Season with One-of-a-Kind Performances
Local artists interpret the Beatles' White Album
On Friday, May 5th, artist John Stapleton creates a new painting
inspired by the live music of Will Taylor and Strings Attached with
Slaid Cleaves. View John's art at http://www.sta pletonart.com.

Will Taylor and Strings Attached pair some of Austin's most popular
singer-songwriters with acoustic "chamber" instruments in a musical
experiment of creativity and fun. The result is a one- night-only
performance that blurs the boundaries between pop, jazz, rock, and
classical music.

On Friday, May 19th, Strings Attached presents the complete Beatles'
White Album in concert with many guest artists from the Austin music
community. Some of the featured performers include Joe Ely, Matt the
Electrician, Carolyn Wonderland, Brian Keane and others. The late
show will include light projection art by Charles Beard. View a
sample at http://stringsattached.org/shows.php.

Both events include two shows, at 7:30 and 10:00 pm at University
Baptist Church, 2130 Guadalupe, across from UT. For tickets visit
www.stringsa ttached.org or call 512-477-9837. The 10:00 pm shows
will broadcast live on 107.1 KGSR and kgsr.com.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

here's something that Shooter Jennings had to say about Shelly
Fairchild
http://www.shellyfairchild.com

"Country music was built on, and can only benefit from the artists
who threw caution to the wind, stepped up to the plate and told
their real stories and sang their real blues. It's rare that you
find an artist whose unique style, personality, voice and presence
transcends the genre around them and creates a place in history of
their own. These are the kind of artists that will advance the music
and allow it to evolve and change through time without boundaries.
Shelly is truly one of those artists."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

An IFS reader wrote:

Hi Ande,

         First -- though I've enjoyed reading your mailings for a
year or so, and have learned much through all your efforts, and that
of your readers, I've never expressed my gratitude.  So THANK YOU
for all the work you do in support of songwriters!  It's a blessing
to all of us.
         I wanted to make a suggestion to those who post a "singer
looking for songs" message.  As a songwriter, I find it helpful to
be able to hear clips of an artist's recordings so I can match the
song to the singer and his or her style.   For example, if someone's
style is "edgy and rebellious", maybe like Gretchen Wilson, it's
somewhat silly for a songwriter to waste the singer's time by
sending them "sweet and tender family values" types of songs--and
vise versa.  An artist whose style and desired image is "clean and
conservative", probably doesn't want to be sent songs with lyrics
portraying beer guzzling or cheating as a fun or acceptable thing to
do.
       Additionally, a photo helps in determining age appropriate
songs for the singer.
In today's MTV/CMT video world, a singer who is very young and looks
like an 18-21 year old,  can't get away with singing a 1st
person "married with 5 kids and twins on the way" song.  (I'd like
to see someone write THAT one! :)  Unlikely, but I think you'll see
my point. .
      I've just noticed that often, people write in saying that
they're looking for songs but don't list a website or a link to any
recordings.  Sometimes they don't have one, but I find them VERY
helpful, and other songwriters may as well.

Thanks so much!
Tracy

~ ~ ~

my response was

hello Tracy,

wonderful to hear from you

I totally agree on the singer searching for songs blurbs
more info is better

a few years ago I wrote this article on the topic


HOW to write an EFFECTIVE SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS BLURB
http://www.justplainfolks.org/ubb/Forum2/HTML/002676.html

ande



Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well. Sorry I have written in a while, I
have a lot of material to share I just haven't gotten around to
putting the latest issue together.  Lately I've been working on my
garden.

I'm on the ballot to serve as a Grammy Governor for the Texas
Chapter. The letter arrived last week. If you're a Texas Chapter
Grammy member I'd very much appreciate your vote.

Lately I've started dabbling with my myspace blog, writing little
things here and there. Please sign up for it. Start your own as well.

What's going on with you?

Write On,

Ande

YOU'LL FIND SEVERAL SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS BLURBS IN THIS ISSUE

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

House Concert Under Attack: Federal Court Case Filed:

We've been having a lively discussion about a pending federal court
case filed
to allow Cindy Harris to continue with her Pennsylvania House
Concerts against a
cease and desist order and other threats from her local politicians.
If you
have any opinions on this topic, you can find links to the info and a
lot of
heated opinions for both sides of the issue here on our JPF message
boards.  We
welcome your opinion!

http://www.justplainfolks.org/ubb/Forum2/HTML/005428.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever heard of

http://www.erinboheme.com

  http://www.myspace.com/erinboheme

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

congratulations to Autumn
she just signed with record label Highway 29
  http://www.myspace.com/autumnonline
http://www.autumnonline.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever heard of the mamasitas

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mamasitas/from/ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

you might enjoy this message board

http://www.berkleemusic.com/discuss/


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kaci has become an in demand demo singer in Nashville, singing the
demos for songs that have been cut by artists such as LeAnn Rimes,
Carrie Underwood, Julie Roberts, Sara Evans, and more. She can't wait
to cut some of the songs she’s sung on her own album �" to be
announced!!
http://www.myspace.com/kacibolls

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~



here's an interesting thread on CDBABY.org
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/04/04/8939926.html


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Date: Sat, 8 Apr 2006 18:07:31 -0700 (PDT)
From: Joe Strouse strousongs@...
Subject: Pat Pattison Workshop in Austin, June 3 and 4, 2006
To: strousongs@... Hey Y'all!

This is the first announcement of Pat Pattison's two-day (Saturday,
June 3rd and Sunday the 4th) songwriting workshop on:

Tools and Strategies - Sharpen your lyric writing skills and discover
the techniques that have helped his students, including John Mayer
and Gillian Welch win Grammys and write number one songs. In this
seminar, you'll learn how to craft more vivid lyrics by mastering the
elements of structure and the process of building great lyrical ideas
into great songs. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned writer, this
course will help you structure your lyrics more effectively. And, as
always, Pat will critique songs on Sunday as time allows.

"I took a class with Pat Pattison, a really great teacher... I
learned a lot of stuff in that class, and I still read Writing Better
Lyrics. I've still got it on the tank of my toilet ... I think it's
great." --Grammy winning artist/songwriter John Mayer, 2004 --

Pat Pattison is a Professor at Berklee College of Music, where he
teaches Lyric Writing and Poetry. In addition to his three books,
Writing Better Lyrics, The Essential Guide to Lyric Form and
Structure, and The Essential Guide to Rhyming, Pat has developed
three online lyric writing courses for Berklee's online school,
available through www.patpattison.com. He has written over 30
articles for Home & Studio Recording Magazine, and The Performing
Songwriter. Pat continues to present songwriting clinics across the
US, Canada, and the UK. Several of his students have won Grammys, in
addition to John Mayer and Gillian Welch.

Cost? $100 per person for the two-day workshop. Berklee College
students and alumni pay $75.

Added bonus! You bring a friend at full price and you can take 20%
off ($80 for non-Berklee students and $60 for Berklee students!) for
your admission!

Please make checks payable to Pat Pattison. You can make them out to
me, but I'll just use it for the Ireland Bicycle Trip Special
Vacation Account instead...

Meals/Accommodations: On your own. We may order in for lunch -
depending on the group's preference. We're planning on another "field
trip" Saturday night, depending on the quantity of homework!

Location: St. Edward's University - an excellent location! The same
great classroom as the last two workshops! Directions and details
will be provided to participant at the end of May.

Time: 10 am - 5 pm both days.

Class size: Limited to the first 30 who send a check payable to "Pat
Pattison". No extra points if the check is made payable to Joe.

Mail checks to: Pat Pattison Workshop, c/o Joe Strouse, P.O. Box
80444, Austin, Texas 78708-0444

Questions? Contact Joe Strouse @ strousongs@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


How to follow up after a conference

> [some conference] offered to place copies of my CD in
> bags that will be handed to an impressive list of attendees.
> Do you think that that is a good idea?


No! Don't! It would be a HUGE waste of money.

Nobody listens to CDs in a bag at a conference.

In fact, don't even BRING your CDs to the conference. All the
attendees go back home with stacks of CDs that are just too
overwhelming to listen to.

Instead, go prepared to MEET a LOT of people, and get THEIR cards, so
that you can contact them one-at-a-time AFTERWARDS, directly by mail,
where you can address THEIR needs, not yours.

Putting your CDs in all bags says, "Here's my music. I don't care who
you are, just listen."

But instead if you go and talk to people, find out what THEY do, ask
questions, then you can contact them one at a time afterwards,
saying, "I spoke with you in Los Angeles last week. You said you were
looking for music for an upcoming tour of Germany. You said you
needed something that was not too hard, but with an edge. I think
this is exactly what you were looking for. Please take a listen and
I'll talk to you in a few days."

Then follow-up with each.

THAT will cost you almost NO money and get a LOT more results than
just putting a ton of CDs into a ton of bags.

Trust me. I'm a conference slut. I've been to 100 conferences. This
is the way to do it.
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/04/13/1840557.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ACL Fest Tix are on sale
  http://www.aclfestival.com/tickets.aspx

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I LOVE TO HEAR FROM IFS READERS


In a message dated 4/4/06 5:10:25 P.M. Central Daylight Time,
RTausch236 writes:
Just wanted to let you know I got the song done and it is now
titled "City of Light". What is shocking is the tracks minus the
vocals cost only $185.00 for a production demo and this demo sounds
better than anything I paid twice as much for. And Jayron Weaver of
Nashville Star did the vocals.  He charges $80.00 and the song sounds
sheer radio hit quality. I wanted to thank you for all the links and
information you gave me! So I thought I would give you a copy of the
final product for you to keep and play, it is now titled "City of
Light".  Take care Ande!! This is my best song ever, hands down.

Richard
my reply was

hi richard,

I hope you're doing well, it's great to hear from you

you're welcome
I'm always happy to help my fellow songwriters and artists
your song sounds great

i'll run what you wrote in IFS
maybe we'll get folks to listen to your song at:
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=43772
and jayron a little business

thanks for sharing your song and story with me

take care,

Ande
www.AndeRasmussen.com
www.SongWriterBlog.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
  ~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Billy White posted these great suggestions

Monday, April 10, 2006

   Advice for the music bidness


Over the years for, some unknown reason, a number of people (usually
younger) have asked me for advice about the music business. I
honestly have no idea why they would think I know more than anyone
else, but they ask. For what it's worth, here are a few pieces of
advice I usually have for people about music and/or life in general.

The first is to never lose sight of why you, hopefully, started
making music in the first place. It's supposed to be FUN! Making
music isnt really worth doing if you dont enjoy it. So when what
you're doing isn't fun anymore, change and do something else. Musical
or not. You can certainly make more money faster by doing a host of
other things. So have as much fun as possible in your music.

Second is to write, sing or perform the music YOU like and want to
do. Be honest with yourself & your music and, as much as possible,
stay true to who you are & what you enjoy (there's that fun thing
again). If you're honest it will come through in the music and will
work. Most people can sense a fake even if they don't understand why
and they, the audience, will generally reject it.



I always worry when I hear people talk about writing songs or
tailoring their act to a particular market. Its like they dont know
who they are, they just want to be famous or think they can succeed
by fooling everyone. If thats what they want they should just run for
political office like the rest of the phonies. In other words, if
you're true to yourself, honest in your performance and have the
talent, success on some level will follow. True musicians make music
because they just have to.
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]-->

Third would come under the general behavior category. Be polite, be
punctual, be respectful & just be nice. 90% of the people Ive met in
this business are all of the above as well as generous and easy to
know. But the last thing they need or want is some arrogant jerk of a
tardy prima donna to deal with. I guess its still stated best as; Do
unto others as you would have them do unto you.


Finally we come to what I always say was the single best piece of
advice I ever heard regarding the entertainment biz and life in
general. It came from the legendary comedian Phyllis Diller. When
asked what advice she would give someone starting out in the bidness
she just said;



"Never go against a gut instinct."



In other words, when that little voice inside tells you not to do
something, like sign a contract, walk down a street, get in a car
with somebody or answer a myspace message, DONT! Conversely if
something just feels right for some reason, even if you cant say why,
you might want to go with it. Ive tried to adhere to that and when I
havent Ive always regretted it.

So, to sum up, that would be fun, honesty, respect and guts.

There you have the sum total of wisdom from some guitar player from
Texas you've probably never heard of. That and $3.00 American will
buy you a gallon of gas. Take it for what it's worth.

I wish you all the best of luck in your musical endeavors and I hope
you have great success or at least a lot of fun.

Advisingly yours,
Billy

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

anyone notice that google has rolled out google music?  anderasmussen
  Offline
  Send Email

     http://www.google.com/musica?aid=WqyRz9S4ZeI

http://www.google.com/musicsearch

http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&ned=us&q=%22google+music%22

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Hey Ande!

Hope things are going well for you over there.

Could you please kindly put this in your next newsletter....


Australian female country artist Mellissa Baker looking for songs:

Twice National Toyota Starmaker finalist and local award winning
artist with almost guaranteed radio play in Australia is looking for
songs for her next recording project.

Genre: country to country contemporary

Please email Mellissa at: powerplay_music@...


Thanks so much!

Andrew Cochrane

~ ~ ~

  My name is Clayton A. Roy. I'm from ontario canada, and am planning
on recording, and releasing my first album this year. The only
drawback is, i have NO INSTRUMENTAL SKILL, and therefore am not very
good at writing my own songs. I'm looking for unique music with a
classical feel, but with some new age things in it too. I also LOVE
singing itallian songs. If anybody has songs that just need lyrics, i
am also a lyracist and am very capable of taking those songs on too.
If you are interested please contact me at

nemesis_0_@...

- Clayton A. Roy







The Project: 10 song Smooth jazz CD
Instrumental featuring and established Sothern California Sax Player.
All songs will be produced with top session players and you will get
a copy for your portfolio.
My production company tree hill media is considering songs in the
smooth jazz, neo soul, rnb, catagories. influences range from euge
groove, warren hill, maxwell, Joe sample, the comodores..

The tracks need to be contemporary and funky. slower tempos are ok.

visit http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/keithjacobson to hear another artist
we just finished. The new tunes need to be along the same lines.

Please email submissions to songs@...
You may also mail charts and cds with no more than 3 tunes on it to:
att Jeff McCullough
Tree Hill Media
1835A S. Center City Parkway #408
Escondido, CA 92025

Regards
Jeff McCullough
760-747-2004



~ ~ ~ ~

From: nosweatt@...
To: AndeRasmussen@...
Sent: Wed, 29 Mar 2006 16:21:00 -0600
Subject: Singer Searching For Songs.


Hi Ande,

Would you please put this blurb out for me in your next new letter. I
am looking for songs for a demo project.  My producer/songwriter will
be selecting songs for a artist development project.  I am working
with a very successful, highly respected hit songwriter/producer in
Nashville with good label connections.  Songs that are selected will
be re-cut and mastered for the project.

We are looking for MAINSTREAM COUNTRY SONGS a la Sara Evans, Miranda
Lambert, early Faith Hill, Sugarland, LeeAnn Rimes, etc. in all
styles of country music.

All writers interested, are welcome to submit their material.  Please
inquire by email to me at Lindsey@... or my website
www.LindseyLea.com , My website also offers a web page where anyone
can listen to my songs that I've previously recorded.

Thanks So Much,
Lindsey Lea

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Aloha Music Buddies,

I know we're all soooo busy these days, but if you could answer any or
all of the questions below ~ I'd sure appreciate it.  The songwriting
organization www.JPFolks.com that I volunteer for has an event coming
up
this Saturday & though you can't make it, it would be wonderful to
share
any ideas/resources/lessons you've learned on your path to success
with
fellow artists & songwriters trying to make their own way in this biz.
Just add your name, website, & your answer below.

Thanks for considering it!  If you could send something by this Friday
4/14, that would be great!

Here's to more success to you on all your music adventures :)

Faith

p.s. please forward to any friends that might have some valuable info
to
share

=============

QUESTIONS for BUILDING YOUR DREAM TEAM
(Answers by www.CindyAlexander.com, www.MaraSong.com,
www.FaithRivera.com)


1)  Is it critical to get management? If so, what's your best advice
on
seeking out the "right" manager & when is the "right" time to pursue
one?

CINDY
I've been through 5 in 10 years....they are right when they are
working
for you and not riding your coat-tails biding time for you to succeed.
They are right when they call you more than you call them. They are
right when they can convince YOU how great you are, and not the other
way around. They are right when they are making you more money than
you
could make on your own. Try to find your manager through attraction
rather than promotion...meaning that rather than blindly sending a
bunch
of packages, you make a buzz for yourself so that they come find you.
At some point, it IS important to have someone else to champion your
cause rather than you...it just gives you credibility. The best time
to
get one is when you've set the ball in motion already, you're prepared
to succeed, and you're prepared if the opportunities come along to
tour,
etc... I believe in finding your voice, your niche, your artistic
identity and THEN bringing someone on board, rather than trying to
find
a manager to GIVE you that identity. Otherwise I think you lose too
much
control over direction.

MARA
NO!  I was signed to a management deal with Barry Manilow's management
company for 6 months, and though I got a great photo shoot and free
rehearsal space out of it, I knew more about the indie thing they they
did and it ended being very disappointing.  Yes, it's great to have
someone in your corner helping you to get gigs and contact labels, but
unless they are the RIGHT person with the right contacts for you, it's
not going to be worth your while.  When you need a manager, they will
contact you.  Same with labels.  If you've got a fan base and are
selling out clubs and selling CDs, they will smell your success and
seek
you out.  The bands I've known to be signed to a label or manager, or
even get a distribution deal, before they have all that stuff on their
own have ended up not selling and being dropped.

FAITH
I think you can enjoy a certain level of success as an indy artist
without management.  I think at the point when it becomes critical to
have management (say when you're being called to do tv spots, magazine
interviews, etc) credible managers would be attracted to you versus
you
soliciting them.  The "right" manager has to have solid contacts you
don't have, a passion to propel you & your music to the next level,
the
same or even better work ethic than you, savvy business sense, the
bucks/the hours/the resources to truly move you forward.  Up to this
point, I have not found the "right" fit for me management-wise, but it
might also be that I like having the control.  You give up a lot of
control & pretty much put your career in their hands.  I really feel
when the time is "right", management will find you...I don't think you
sit in the corner waiting ~ you're actively out there achieving
success
after success & at certain point, management is required to get you to
the next level because you're just too busy to handle all the
logisitics.

-------------

2)  Do you book yourselves or have an outside company/person handling
this for you?

CINDY
Both. No matter how many people I have had working for me, I never
stop
working for myself and seeking out opportunities. Getting an agent is
HARD... you don't necessarily need one if you are comfortable making
calls and soliciting shows, but it's helpful. It's easier to get an
agent if you already have a manager. Let your manager find you the
agent.

MARA
Allllll byyyy myyyseeeeeeelf.  :-)  Better to do it on your own, make
the
contacts, and have them for life.  BOOK SMART!!!   If you're not
enjoying
the gigs you are booking for yourself, STOP PLAYING THEM!  Find more
fun
places with built-in crowds.  Even ones that pay a little.  They're
rare, but worth the effort.  Otherwise you'll sour on the whole
industry
before anyone gets to hear your brilliance.

FAITH
I've been doing all of my own bookings till recently...now I have
Chris
Fletcher from Coast to Coast Music who does bookings for JPF Mentor
www.HaroldPayne.com helping me out.  Also a great resource has been
www.gigmasters.com  especially if you have niche music...I still get a
lot of requests since I was once listed in the Hawaiian & Salsa
category.  Another resource I used early on was www.festivalnet.com
which is so worth the low fee to join - they list events by state,
date,
the type of music they're requesting, etc.  I've established myself
more
in my niche market of positive/interfaith/ spiritual music that calls
&
bookings come a lot to me now.  Having Chris Fletcher helps to ease
the
load a bit because doing your own bookings is a job unto itself ~
Chris
helps me pursue specific leads, negotiate my terms, confirm bookings,
while I continue planning the logistics of my performances/travel.
Chris is a bit busy now, but touch base to see what she can do for you
even if in the future: ccmusic@... (818) 376-1380

-------------

3)  Can you recommend some great publicists that work with indy
artists?

CINDY
NO. The only ones I've met are a waste of money. Let me know if anyone
says anything differently! The best publicity right now is through
MySpace...and it's free.

MARA
Nope.  But I'll write your bios and press releases for ya for cheap!
www.flyingcoasterpr.com

FAITH
NO...the only one I hired I'm sorry to say was a BIG disappointment
and
taught me yet again, until I find someone who can do a better job than
me, I'm my own publicist.  I agree with Cindy that MySpace and really
web presence, placing yourself in search engines & indy artist pages,
aligning yourself with organizations/companies again on the web are
the
ways to go.

-------------

4)  Do you have a "team" behind you?  If yes, who are they?  What do
they do? How are they forwarding your career?

MARA
My "team" consists of the venue bookers that I've developed
relationships with who have it in their best interests to help me
promote my shows at THEIR venues, and the hard-core fans - even if
it's
just 5 or 10 - who come to every show and keep their eyes out for
opportunities for me.  That is my career.  Playing music for people.
Everything else either comes or it doesn't...while I'm playing music
for
people.  :-)

FAITH
The "team" behind me interestingly enough are my artist friends...over
the years we've formed an informal circle of artist friends that send
each other leads, refers us for gigs, tells each other  this company's
good - this one isn't, give advice based on each of our own lessons &
successes.  I guess that's truly the coolest thing about JPFolks & the
idea of JPFolks...we are each other's greatest resource.  In
addition, I
would say my fans that have become my friends & have a personal
interest
in sharing my music with others, referring me to great events, even a
few who have felt compelled to write/email Oprah (so cute!).  There's
my
hubby, Nolan, who shares my career right alongside me & helps to make
those key decisions.  And lastly those business contacts, who again
are
friends, like Chris Fletcher who helps with booking or the cool guy I
contacted years ago about booking my original music who has kept up
with
my career.

I think with each interaction & relationship you make, no matter how
related or not they seem to be with your music career, they are a
potential part of your "team".  In this way, your "team" could bigger
than you ever dreamt of...which I think also makes for great
publicity...they're all talking about you & your music!

-------------

5)  Do you effectively use a street team? What do they do for you?

CINDY
YES. My fan club is the greatest. They help sell merchandise at shows,
they put up posters, they tell the world about me. They book shows,
they
house me on tour (the sane ones...do your check-ups before you agree
to
stay with a fan....many stories about this one, too long to type).

MARA
Nope

FAITH
I don't effectively use a street team per se, though I'm looking to
utilize my enthusiastic fans more.  I have a couple venues out of
state
where I visit often enough that my fans there do help out a lot...from
housing, driving, to selling my product, feeding me, etc.  I have
found
though that giving my fans opportunities to participate & support my
career even via my email newsletters have done awesome things. I have
some ideas of involving your fans to support your music at this link:
http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Connection.html  Just a few fans/friends
have been really involved, but each one has been significant so I
don't
think you lose anything by reaching out to them for support.


-------------

6)  What are some ways that you have recruited street team members?

CINDY
Once again, attraction rather than promotion is always the best way:
put
on a great show, have an email sign up - and stay in touch with your
fans. Again, MySpace....great way to recruit fans and street team.

MARA
I play music, people have fun and want to come back with friends.

FAITH
I don't if it's because I'm in a niche market, but I have never been
able though I haven't officially tried to "recruit" street team
members
via MySpace or even MP3.com when I was on there way back when.  As of
now, I guess the way I recruit would be at my live performances with
my
email sign-up list.  It has grown a lot & I have the sign-up sheet
prominenetly set on my product table with a sturdy clipboard & a
pretty
pen :)   I think it was Ali Handal who had the idea of giving a free
sticker or some free something for signing up.

Last thing, visit my friends site www.ErnieHalter.com who has so
effectively used MySpace recruit street team members.  When he has
time,
he'll definitely present to our group.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

2006 Nashville SongWriters Festival On Music Row
June14-18 Check out our New SongWriter Forum.
Visit www.songwritersfestival.com to register for the fest. Or call
615-424-1491.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sex may very well sell boys and girls....
Current mood:  contemplative

Ok... I have been doing a little experiement boys, girls, ladies and
gentlemen ... I have been changing the picture on my profile.. I
don't know... every week or two... between this one of me thats black
and white and really cool... very artistic ( I think!) to this color
photo of me that looks... a little "suggestive" lets say.
Anyway..Over the last six months I have found that I get WAY more
hits on my myspace account when the sex pot picture is up than when
the cool picture is up. I guess I just hate jumping on the damn band
wagon but it seems like "they" are right. Sex sells... people want
it. And all these years I have been trying to avoid it like the
plague.... It's hard as a woman to find that line. And to come to the
realization that the world seems to revolve around one thing.

It would be nice if people just wanted to hear your music... but I
guess to find the broadest audience... and grab people's attention...
you have to ride that line... I don't know if anyone cares or is even
reading this for that matter... but I have found a great lesson in
this. And I was taught it by the good people at myspace... now what
to do with this information.

http://www.myspace.com/brandonjane

http://www.myspace.com/brandonjane

www.brandonjane.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

KOSHi: What would be your advice to any aspiring singer- songwriters
reading this right now?

ALLiSON: Do it for love. Cease wanting your music to give something
back to you, especially something glamorous. You have created it:
that's what your job was. Put on a new hat and help gently shoo it
out into the world. Where it goes from there is a result of some
really interesting variables, not the least of which is that you must
simply love it and continue to believe in what you've done. Don't be
swayed by criticism or praise. Listen to advice openly and check with
your heart to see if it matches your vision. Be a little vessel and
fill your sails up with good wind!!!


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Songwriting with Darden Smith
This weeklong camp is for budding songwriters with some musical
ability and a desire to be creative!  Plus, you get to work closely
with Darden Smith, one of the world's most respected
singer/songwriters.  Topics covered will be structure, lyricism,
chorus, the magic of simplicity, and collaboration.   Students will
write a number of songs during the week and make rough demos of at
least one song.
Half-day camp for 12-18 year olds
June 5-9, 2006
Monday - Friday, 1:00pm-4:00pm
$200.00

Advanced Songwriting with Darden Smith
This weeklong camp is for those who have been writing songs for a
while (ages 15 to adult) and are looking to make a big jump forward
in their craft and discipline.  Class size is limited to ensure
specialized attention.   You will work extensively on structure,
lyricism, melody, learning to self-edit and critique, and
collaboration.  Students will be expected to come to the first class
session with an original song to play, and to do work at home between
classes.
Half-day camp, limited enrollment
June 12-16, 2006
Monday - Friday 1:00pm-4:00pm
$500.00

Classical Vocal Workshop
Polish your performance technique through movement classes, diction,
and daily vocal masterclasses.  This workshop is designed for high
school students seriously interested in continuing their study of
singing at the college level.  Singers must bring at least 2 prepared
classical songs to work on during the week.  This weeklong camp
culminates in a vocal recital on Saturday.  Class materials will
include Cindy Sadler's book The Student Singer's Starter Kit.
Classes will be taught by ACMS voice faculty and staff, and daily
masterclasses will be led by ACMS voice teacher Liz Cass
Evening camp for 14-18 year olds
June 5-10, 2006
Monday - Friday 6:00pm-8:00pm
Saturday Recital June 10th @ 5:00pm
$235.00

Call (512) 474-2331 for more information and to register
www.AustinLyricOpera.org/ACMS

ACMS is located at 901 Barton Springs Road.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We're a productionteam of three people from Norway
looking for songs to produce and good lyrics. Our style
is ranging from: Pop, R'n'B, Rock to Reggae and ambient
kind of styles. But we are currently looking for: ComPop,
R'n'B like:Britney, Kylie Minogue, Atomic Kitten Robbie Williams,
Boyzone, Backstreet, Boys 2 Men....
Our goals is to produce Nr.1 Hits for futher publishing.

christian.freeman@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande Rasmussen

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well.
A lot of cool things have been going on

Last week I attended the Texas Grammy event at the 4 seasons hotel
where Charlie Sexton interviewed Jimmy Jam.

Jimmy JAm and his partner Terry Lewis are so impressive
do yourself a favor read everything you can on
http://www.flytetyme.com
(ESPECIALLY if you write killer POP R&B songs, you might find a
super treat on their website)

at the end of this IFS I've included their writings on

What A Producer Looks For

~ ~ ~


I'm on the ballot to serve as a Grammy Governor for the Texas
Chapter. If you're a Grammy member with the Texas Chapter I'd very
much appreciate your vote.

I faced the challenge of having to write a 50 word or less bio that
would explain who I am and why I'm qualified to serve.  I sent my
first 50 word draft out to several friends and asked them for help
to recraft my message.  Big thanks to Sandy Knox and Brian Austin
Whitney for guiding me in what to write:

so my first draft was:

ANDE RASMUSSEN � Austin, TX:
Ande's a songwriter with over 20 cuts. He's the editor and publisher
of www.SongWriterBlog.com (3,900 recipients) He served as president
of the Austin Songwriters Group in 2003. Ande works at Merrill Lynch
as a Wealth Management Advisor and serves several music industry
clients.


My final draft was:

ANDE RASMUSSEN  Austin, TX:
Former President Austin Songwriters Group; worked with Sandy Knox,
Steve Seskin, Allen Shamblin, Paul Overstreet, and Jan Mirkin;
Cuts with John Arthur Martinez; ASCAP; Creator/Editor of IFS
(http://www.SongWriterBlog.com) (3,900 Members); Respected Music
Community Educator;  Advisor for http://justplainfolks.org (40,000+
Members); Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch specializing in
Music Industry Clients

~ ~ ~

I've cowritten a new song with john Arthur martinez and he's now
testing it out at gigs.

I'm working on a new cabaret / music theater song with Dennis
Livingston.

I've got a couple cuts in the works.

Google alerts let me know that Abi Tapia mentioned my name in her
journal
http://www.abitapia.com/journal.htm



What's going on with you?

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A Message From Neil Portnow and David Foster

March 21, 2006

Dear Academy Member:

On behalf of the Board of The GRAMMY Foundation, we are writing to
encourage
your active support of an important and exciting program.

Recently we announced that The GRAMMY Foundation will conduct its
second GRAMMY
Camp from July 15-31, 2006.  Building on the phenomenal success we
experienced
in our first year, we are expanding Grammy Camp to two full weeks.
We will
accommodate 120 young musicians ages 15-19 at the Citrus College
Entertainment
Technology Complex, as well as other venues throughout Los Angeles.

Students attending GRAMMY Camp will have the opportunity work
directly with
highly regarded industry professionals in a program designed to
explore 14 music
career tracks. Artistic, technical and business curriculum will be
integrated
together to culminate in a CD recording and showcase performance.
Because of The
GRAMMY Foundation's history, experience and connection to industry
professionals, GRAMMY Camp is an interactive educational opportunity
unlike any
other currently available.

Our goal is to reach out to as many accomplished young musicians as
possible.
We are almost tripling our student enrollment and doubling the
length of GRAMMY
Camp for 2006.  An important part of our mission is to insure that
we can
include qualified students regardless of their financial status.
You can help
us reach this goal by funding a GRAMMY Camp scholarship.  A full
scholarship
($5,000) will cover all costs for one student including room, board
and
instructional materials.  A scholarship contribution form is
attached.  Please
print this form and return it to The Grammy Foundation.

Educating young people about the myriad career opportunities in
music is central
to The GRAMMY Foundation's philosophy.  GRAMMY Camp is a clear
example of
bringing this philosophy to life.  As a Recording Academy member we
urge you to
join us.

Our thanks for your commitment and generosity in support of GRAMMY
Camp.

Neil Portnow
President
The Recording Academy

David Foster
Chairman of the Board
The GRAMMY Foundation

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Question from an IFS reader

hi ande,

i was hoping to get a bit of advice from you, as you seem well
versed in this type of thing (just from what i've gathered from your
IFS letters!). i received the following email:

"Meg, My name is Brian and I live in Texas. I'm writing and
producing a short film for a local film festival (and maybe SxSW
next year) and I'm really interested in using one of your songs
(which I heard on garageband.com) for the short. I'd be happy to fax
some kind of form or something to your label stating exactly what
the song would be used for, when in the film, etc.. Honestly, since
I'm pretty much self-financing this short, and I'm never going to
make any money off of it, I don't think I'd have the means to pay
much in the way of fees, but I'd be interested in listening to
proposals for fees. The best thing would be if I could have the
right to use a :30-:45 or so clip of some songs in exchange for a
copy of the short film on DVD to show off. Please let me know some
information as soon as possible as my deadline for submitting the
film to a local film fest is April 1st. Thanks!"

...so my first inclination is just to say, sure! that sounds great!
anything you need! let me know how it goes! but i'm sure that may
not be the wisest way to go, and i was hoping you'd have some advice
as far as how i should respond. i don't have a label or a manager or
anything like that, and obviously the idea is to keep it quick,
painless and simple while protecting my music and me from getting
screwed.

i don't want to take up too much of your time, but if you have any
advice that you don't have to think about much, i'd appreciate it!

-meg in motown

Ande's Response:

hey there,

I'd be inclined to say yes you may use my song
with stipulations that my permission is just for use of the film in
the film festival circuit and if the project became better funded or
took off or sold lot's of DVD's
you'd participate with that and get paid more

but it's great to have a credit in a film
and he doesn't seem to have much of a budget

you could also find out what he could afford
my cowriters and i licensed one song in a film for $100

ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I found this in a myspace blog
maybe you can relate

What a blessing it is to pursue your passion, I thank the Lord
everyday....
however, as it should, and as it does, it comes with "the struggle".
We all know the struggle at some point. With every endeavor that we
pursue, that comes from within us, an earnest desire to do something
or be something great, we confront adversity, from dental school, to
relationships to the music biz. There are all kinds of adversity,
both external and internal. But the kind of Struggle I am talking
about, is mostly the Internal battle, whats going on, on the inside.
How the external influences how we think, and feel about ourselves
and what we are diligently trying to accomplish with our lives. I go
through this regularly, as I am attempting to  forge a path in the
music industry, the interrogations I put myself through; what makes
you think you can do this? are you cut out for this? is this really
gonna happen? What if the critics are right, or wrong?  Really now,
what are your chances???Gosh, the emotional stuggle it can be.
Yesterday someone asked me "so why did you decide to get into the
hardest business in the world?" , wow, that's a good question...
sometimes I ask myself the same thing! Why something so hard,
brutal, harsh,corrupt, impossible as the music business seems? I
guess I will answer with this; though I have tried more than once to
escape it, I can't deny music, I can't let it go, can't quit, I
can't walk away from something that won't leave me alone. This is
beyond a choice, it's a responsibility and obligation to use what
you're given. And this is what we have to come to grips with, that
we must be who we are intended to be, whether we think we are cut
out for it or not. And yes the stuggle is there, but for good
reason, to remind us of our need for constant improvement, growth,
motivation, will power and of course humility. I guess what I really
should fear is the urge to be complacent, that would be the
scariest, and most dangerous place to be. So I guess you just have
to cry your tears, give in, but ONLY for a moment till you're on the
other side. Bring on the struggle, let it mold me into what I need
to be, I say that with some trepidation, but with conviction that
it's going to be okay, it's going to be more than okay, it's going
to be great.

PS...One of the comments left in response to this blog, brought some
enlightening thoughts, a little peice of truth. See...this is what I
love about myspace. This thought being, you do what you do for the
Love of it, and the rest will take care of itself, it will relieve
the burden and give us hope. So I add this great thought and thank
you Allison,  for reminding me that which is of the greatest
importance,  that is to LOVE first.... like they say (they being the
beatle's)... All you NEED is love...
http://www.myspace.com/brookewhite

~ ~ ~
reply:

WOW! ANOTHER CHICK SINGER WHO GET'S IT!!!

Preach Sista!! I can C O M P L E T E L YYYYYYY RELATE to everything
you are saying. I found your site by chance... and really love your
voice. Then I saw your blog and the title struck a chord in me, so I
read on.  Only to find another sister soul mate in the music world
w/ the same thoughts and feelings.  I'm sure there are a lot of us
out there w/ the same views, but it seems to be the one's WITH the
talent, who struggle and doubt the most. You really sound great,
look great and have a lot going for you.  Sometimes life is not just
about 'making it' but being who we are 'created' to be and using the
gifts we have been blessed with WHILE enjoying the journey. It does
get to a point where most artists consume themselves w/ the struggle
and forget to just relax and enjoy what we do (not always... but
sometimes).  I'm glad I've stumbled upon your site and hope to share
some encouragement and light into your world as you have mine.
Hope to hear from you soon and keep in touch. Great voice - would
love to jam with you sometime!!  I may be making a trip out to LA
for some radio stuff... we should meet up and grab a coffee and
chat.  YOU ROCK GIRL!! YOU ARE RIGHT... it can be hard... BUT IT'S
GONNA BE GREAT!! Keep being YOU!!!

Soul Sista!

Angel
http://www.myspace.com/angelnash

~ ~ ~
Reply:

Remember in the middle of all of this struggle that if you do it for
love it will be easier, which you are learning as you grow. The
critics are neither wrong nor right: they are motivated from their
own complexities and environments, and they are confident that they
will be heard. Let anyone's opinion be a mere satellite around your
art, neither touching it nor changing its atmosphere, but its own
enitity independent of what you have created, linked to you only by
what power you bestow upon it. I wish you strength and beauty in the
lovely way you are working through your destiny. And I understand :)
http://www.myspace.com/allisonsattinger

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Song doesn't get old

`ONE SHINING MOMENT' GETS 20TH YEAR OF PLAY

By John Ryan
Mercury News

The ball is tipped, and there you are.

You're sitting on your couch, waiting for a star.

Beginning today, NCAA tournament die-hards will make mental notes
about the buzzer-beaters, tear-jerkers and cheerleaders likely to
reappear on the ``One Shining Moment'' highlight video after the
championship game April 3. David Barrett has gotten pretty good at
it. Of course, he might know what CBS is looking for.

The song Barrett wrote on a whim celebrates its 20th year as the
tournament's soundtrack. Barrett isn't involved in editing the
highlights, which is a good thing because he's too busy anyway. He
wrote a short book with the same title and has a Web site
www.oneshiningmoment.com
There's a CD, and the song is available for download on iTunes.
Not bad for an idea that started in a bar in East Lansing, Mich.,
with no real intended target. Barrett played the song for friend
Armen Keteyian, who was then working for Sports Illustrated and sent
it on to a friend at CBS (where Keteyian now works).

``I have no idea'' why he wrote it, Barrett said this week. ``I will
say that the minute I wrote it I knew I had written something
special, that's the truth. But I've never tried to limit what I
wrote about. I've written about several subjects, some more
successful than others.''

Barrett's long career has included two Emmy-winning scores, but this
is his . . . his . . . his masterpiece. (You didn't think we'd say
it was his Shining Moment, did you?)

Coach K is probably the only more identifiable image of the
tournament's past two decades. Barrett's voice, featured through
1996, has given way to Teddy Pendergrass and now Luther Vandross.
(``Yeah, a lot of people confuse me and Luther,'' Barrett says.)
More crossover appeal: Earlier this year, ``The Daily Show'' sampled
it, to hilarious effect, as a tribute to retiring Federal Reserve
Chairman Alan Greenspan. As Greenspan scampered across a busy street
to the line ``you're running for your life . . .''

How significant is the song? Put it this way: In three weeks, no
matter the length of the end-of-tournament credits that precede the
song -- and they get looooooonger every year -- we'll watch.
So start guessing.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

from http://www.flytetyme.com

What A Producer Looks For

MANY MUSICIANS WANT TO KNOW WHAT A PRODUCER LOOKS FOR WHEN CHECKING
OUT A DEMO. HERE'S WHAT I LOOK FOR:

I want to know everything that can possibly be known about what's
going on. You should:

* Detail the recording equipment and explain how the demo was
recorded. Your demo may have the greatest sound in the world, and
maybe it was done on a four-track. If so, that tells me you really
know sounds, and you worked to get the demo happening.

* Explain the demo's purpose.
What am I listening for?
Do you want to be a producer?
A writer?
Do you want to be a singer?
A lot of times I get a tape from someone who wants to be a singer,
and the singing is horrible, but the song is great.
Well, did you write the song?
I don't want you for a singer, but I can use the song.
You just got to communicate.
You got to let me know what I am listening for.
The more I know, the more accurately I can make a decision.

* Keep the songs short and avoid long intros. When I listen to a
tape, I put it on, and I listen to the intro for about 10 or 15
seconds. If there isn't a verse starting or something happening in
the first 10 or 15 seconds of a song, forget it. I'll fast-forward
to the next song.

* Start the song at its strongest section. I don't have time to sit
and listen to the whole song. So if the hippest part of the song is
two minutes into it, just start the song at the two-minute point!
* Name your influences.
* Include a photo.

What About Casting

For a song demo, cast the material. When you're sending a song,
indicate the artist you think it would be a good song for. Is it a
good Madonna song? A good Janet Jackson song? A good Johnny Gill
song? What is it? Who did you have in mind?





Dealing With Rejection

You have to realize that if someone turns on your demo, they may
like the music, but it's not what they're looking for. They might
pass it along to the next guy. There are different people we'll send
tapes to. A producer might call us and say, "This could be good, I
don't really know. What do you guys think?" Maybe the third or
fourth person who hears your tape is the one who snaps their fingers
and says, "Hey, this is it. This is what I've been looking for."


Summary

Let me know what I'm listening for, get to the point as fast as you
can, and make the information as thorough as possible. When I look
at your package, I should have everything I need in my hands-a
photo, videotape of a live performance, lyrics, cassette tape,
information on the instruments you used and how you recorded your
demo, and who your influences are.

from
http://www.flytetyme.com




Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as
take
your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well. There are many singer searching
for song blurbs in this email.

Things are going great for me

I'm working on a new song with john Arthur martinez,
I've got a new one with Robert Deitch.

Several cuts in the works with various artists.

I have many more ideas stirring in the pot.

I'll be in
LA from Saturday March 11 - Wednesday March 15
NY on Thursday March 23 and
Atlanta on Wednesday March 29 and Thursday March 30th

I wish you the best.

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Patricia at Next No 1 send this to me:

Remember Jayron from Nashville Star last season?

If anyone is interested in a great demo singer...

well, this guy is awesome. He was a finalist in the Nashville Star
competition last year and I LOVE his voice. He is available for demo
work upon request. He has that voice that is very pitchable for
mainstream country. If you'd like to hear his vocals, I'll be glad
to send you a sample anytime after this Monday (if you can accept
mp3's). Besides, he is just the nicest guy you will ever meet!!

Here is his contact info:

Jayron Weaver
(678) 234-2766
Jayronweaver@...
BigJrun@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy�
invites you to the
2006 Annual Membership Meeting

Featuring an Up Close & Personal
with GRAMMY� -winning Producer
Jimmy Jam

Moderated by
Charlie Sexton


Special Presentations by
Recording Academy President Neil Portnow & Chairman Terry Lickona


Live musical performances by
GRAMMY-winning artist Yolanda Adams
GRAMMY-winning artists Sunny Sauceda, Joel Guzman & David Lee Garza


Thursday, March 16, 2006
5 p.m. 8:30 p.m.
Four Seasons Austin Grand Ballroom
98 San Jacinto Blvd.
Austin, Texas

Hors d'oeuvres  Cash Bar

Complimentary admission for Recording Academy members and one guest
Additional guests and non-members $25
Kindly RSVP to
512-328-8176 or email
texas@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jason Blume, author of "6 Steps to Songwriting Success - The
Comprehensive Guide to Writing and Marketing Hit Songs", will be in
Greenville, South Carolina on June 10th for an all-day songwriting
workshop hosted by NSAI Greenville. For more information and to
register, visit www.NSAIGreenville.com.
Jason Blume, author of
"6 Steps to Songwriting Success - The Comprehensive Guide to Writing
and Marketing Hit Songs", is doing an an
all-day songwriting workshop hosted by
NSAI Greenville in
Greenville, South Carolina on
Saturday June 10th  For more information and to register, visit
www.NSAIGreenville.com
or contact
Greg Valente at
greg@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

You might enjoy Bob Lefsetz's Ezine
(don't sign up if cuss words offend you)
http://www.lefsetz.com/lists/?p=subscribe&id=1
http:lefsetz.com/wordpress

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singer Searching for Songs

Greg  Valente thats over the Nashville Songwriters Association
International Greenville, SC Chapter reffered me. I  told him that i
am currently working on a solo project, and i have been looking for
songs to put on the album. He gave me your contact information, and
told me that you have a website/songwriters group or resources of
songwriters. If you would post this for me i would so greatly
appreacite it. You can word this however you would like but here
goes.

Male Vocalist looking for material to go on album, would like the
genre to be Pop, R&B, Slow Ballads Contemporary Christian Musc that
can also be considered crossover. My influences stem from Natalie
Grant, Brian Mc Knight, Backstreet Boys,
Crystal Lewis, Stacie Orrico, Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, Clay
Aiken, and those are to just give you an idea of my influences &
Styles i like and would like to do. Please make the sure the songs
are complete and ready to be record if picked. I can either be
emailed the songs or they can also send them to me if they would
like. My contact information goes as follow

Email  me at  rcbutler04@...

Or mail material to
Christopher Butler
  P.O Box 3922
Greenville S.C 29608

Thank you in advance,
Christopher Butler

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Sager@... writes:
My web site is http://www.johnsager.com  I would like to see if you
have songs for me to sing too.  Please take a look.
Thank You,

John Sager

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Date: Feb/25/2006
By: Linda Hamilton
E-mail: lhamilton12@...

Company: Hamilton Productions

Subject: Up & Coming Female Artist , produced by well-known

Comment:
We are looking for songs for a young female artist who will be
recording in the next year. She has an eclectic style, similar to
Sade, but can do other styles as well. Looking for as much material
as we can gather, so if you have songs you'd like to send, please
contact us. Thank you

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Date: Feb/24/2006
By: randy norris
E-mail: ren_3200@...

Subject: singer looking for songs country

Comment:
Recently established nashville recording artist looking for more
songs to record.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Date: Feb/19/2006
By: phil dalmolin
E-mail: pdalmolin@...

Title: producer
Company: potters wheel productions
Telephone: 210 204 1309

Subject: need good songs

Comment:
I need great songs for a new artist. Singer is ballsy, not pretty
song bird type

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Date: Feb/27/2006
By: Cristina Mullins
E-mail: raisingeinstein@...

Address: 1710 Old Potters Ln, Clarksville, IN 47129
Telephone: 502-727-4539
Fax: 812-280-7929

Subject: looking for songs

Comment:
I am a vocalist looking for songs to record. I have performed a wide
variety of music and while my first passion lies in rock, I have
been thinking about going country. I needs songs to record a country
album...visit me at
www.raisingeinstein.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singers Searching for Songs

Date: Feb/05/2006
By: Ashley
E-mail: AshleyUSA3@...

Subject: Female Country Singer looking for "A" quality song

Comment:
Hello! I am a writer myself and am putting together a demo of my
material (like everyone else is this town!) but I would like a few
songs by other writers to keep my sound well-rounded. I am looking
for country up tempos or really strong ballads. Story songs are
great, anything sassy with a honky-tonk edge is great!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~



Singers Searching for Songs

stolenz2002@... writes:
Hello,

My name is Tom.  I'm a singer out of Cincinnati Ohio looking for
good material.  i have a raspy style soulful, rock voice and I'm
working on my first album.  i need to hook up with someone who can
write intelligent (non-cheesy) lyrics as well as compose music
tracks.  I do write myself, but it is tough for me to compose the
music since i do not play any particular instrument well enough to
write with.  i like the sound of real guitars, drums, keys even sax
and harmonica.  not looking for pop or hip hop beats.  looking for
real music.  i would love the chance to work with you if you feel we
have something in common.  please contact me at your convenience to
discuss further.  here is a link to an artist that most resembles
the sound i have and am looking for.  let me know what you think.
his name is Marc Broussard at www.marcbroussard.com .  hope we get
the chance to work together.

thank you,

Tom

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


troymcc@... writes:

Hello Ande,

Doak Turner referred you as a good contact in Texas. (see below)

My home town is Houston, Texas and I am making plans to tour Texas
in the coming months. I will be working on a new CD project and need
information on the Texas circuit.

A brief bio: I've been in Nashville since 1997 and have worked as a
staff writer for several major publishing companies, as well as
producing artist development projects - one of which landed a record
contract with an MCA subsidiary. I also teach songwriter workshops
and do one-on-one song critiques, and want to incorporate that into
my tour.

I have contacts in Houston but I'm talking to as many folks as I can
around the state. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me.

Please call me when you have time.

Warmest Regards,

Troy McConnell
615 330-4967

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hello Everyone,

It's been nearly 2 years since the Nashville2u Conference in Houston
and time and space make it hard to keep in touch!  I don't just
email you via group emailings unless I feel it is worthy to do so.
This is very worthy.

Pat Pattison, author of "Writing Better Lyrics," is coming to
Austin on
June 3 and 4th.  Pat teaches at Berkley College of Music.  I've
attached his credentials at the bottom of this email.  I attended
Pat's class in Austin a month ago, entitled "2nd Verse Hell."  His
course is 2 days.  $100.  Saturday and Sunday.  And he's able to
critique your songs, and your styles.  I promise that you'll come
away with tools you've never had before that will increase your
ability to write better songs.  I can't say enough about his
personality and friendliness to his approach.  If you are really
serious about songwriting, then you need to attend his class.

Email  strousongs@...,
Joe Strouse, if you are interested.
Hope you can plan to be there.

Let me know how you are doing!

Here is Pat's website:
http://members.aol.com/ptpattison/lyricpages/bio.html

This is from his website:

Pat Pattison is a Professor of lyric writing and poetry at Berklee
College of Music, where he developed the curriculum for the only
Songwriting Major in the country.
In addition to his three books, Pat has written for Recording
Magazine, The Performing Songwriter, and the LASS Musepaper. He also
presents songwriting clinics across the country.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

have you heard of this austin Violinist

Rebecca Browne, Juilliard graduate, is currently completing a
masters degree in violin performance at the University of Texas at
Austin, studying classical violin with Brian Lewis and Daniel Ching
and jazz violin with Jeff Hellmer.

Rebecca is a very active violinist in Austin and can be seen
performing in gigs ranging from Austin Symphony Concerts and Austin
Eurythmie Ensemble Performances to playing at Austin's premier jazz
club, the Elephant Room. Rebecca plays and improvises on the violin
in many styles including classical, rock, jazz, Texas-style
fiddling, Celtic, worship, bluegrass and Gospel. She puts these
skills to use on the stage and as a studio musician, playing for
bands and on soundtracks.

This last summer, she, along with two fellow Juilliard graduates,
traveled to Eastern Europe with 30 violins and founded a violin
program for orphaned and impoverished children. Rebecca is deeply
committed to unlocking the joy of music in young people's lives and
maintains a private violin studio in Austin.


http://www.rebeccabrowne.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's Steve Seskin's latest Announcements

Greetings!  I have been traveling to very cold but wonderful places
recently.  I just got back from a week in Ireland.  Before that it
was Calgary and Edmonton and northern Minnesota. That was the
coldest place (17 below zero brrrrrr!)  Very warm and friendly
folks, though.

I'm hard at work on a new recording, and happy to announce that
Allen Shamblin and I have a new children's book, "A Chance To
Shine," coming out in May.  Details in the next email.  Speaking of
Allen, he'll be coming out to the Bay area in early May for a few
shows with me in San Ramon, Berkeley and Mill Valley on May 5th, 6th
and 7th.  I've got some shows in March and a house concert at my
house on April 1st.  Here are the details.  As always.... Thanks for
your continued support of me and the music I make.  Take care.....



Friday, March 24 -  Fresno Folklore Concert in Fresno, California.
Featuring Steve Seskin, Brian Joseph and Kenny Edwards.  For more
info go to www.fresnofolklore.org or call 559-431-3653.

Saturday, March 25 - All Day Songwriting Workshop in Clovis,
California.  For more info call Annette at 559-940-4655.

Saturday, March 25 - Espresso Garden Caf�, 814 S. Bascom Avenue in
San Jose, California. An evening with Steve Seskin, Brian Joseph and
Kenny Edwards. Doors open at 7:00 PM, show starts at 8:00 PM.
Tickets are $18 and are available at the door or in advance at
www.virtuous.com. Advance reservations are recommended.  For more
info go to www.espresso-garden.com or call 408-298-0808.

Sunday, March 26 - Freight and Salvage Coffee House, 1111 Addison
Street in Berkeley, California.  An evening with Steve Seskin, Brian
Joseph and Kenny Edwards.  The doors open at 7:30 PM, show starts at
8:00 PM.  Tickets are $17.50 available in advance at the box office
or at www.freightandsalvage.org, and $18.50 at the door.  Call 510-
548-1761 for more information.

Saturday, April 1 - House Concert, 929 36th Street in Richmond,
California.  I will be performing with my good friend Craig
Carothers. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 7:30 PM.
Tickets are $17 which includes dessert goodies.  For advance
reservations, send a check to 929 36th Street, Richmond CA 94805.
For more info call 510-236-9666.



You have been sent this e-mail because you or someone else requested
that your address be added to our gigs e-mail list.  If you wish to
be removed from this list, please let us know and we will remove
your address.  We maintain the list only to notify people who want
to know about Steve's concerts and career development.  Thanks!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Have songs on Itunes?
you can use Itunes Linkmaker
http://www.apple.com/itunes/linkmaker

john Arthur's links are

Itunes Linkmaker

Home Made of Stone
john Arthur martinez
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?
s=143441&i=5677569&id=5677574


Lone Starry Night track
john Arthur martinez
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?
s=143441&i=6544718&id=6544722

john Arthur martinez
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?
id=5677571&s=143441


Lone Starry Night CD
john Arthur martinez
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?
s=143441&i=6544694&id=6544722

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kids Music is showing strong numbers
http://money.cnn.com/2006/03/01/news/companies/kiddie_rock/?cnn=yes

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs
plus they do so much more it will truly blow you away as well as take
your songwriting to a whole new level.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope this email finds you well.

I first extend my condolences to my friend Monte Warden, his mother
Seareatha Carson Matetich passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on
Saturday, February 18, 2006, while visiting Austin.

Please keep Monte and his family in your prayers during this
difficult time.

Ande



Itunes had it's billionth download last week.



As of this week I now have over 1,500 friends on
http://www.myspace.com/anders
Send me an invite or post a comment
I've found some tremendous songwriters and singers. like
http://www.myspace.com/karynrochellesongs
http://www.myspace.com/evienicolemusic



A new cowrite arrived last week, it's called "Let's Make"

the artist and cowriter is Bret Bingham
Bret Bingham is the artist and my cowriter
http://www.myspace.com/bretbingham

you can hear it at
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=42279

if that link doesn't work try clicking on:
http://www.songramp.com/homepage.ez?playcatalog=Yes&Who=ande




I'm enjoying this years American Idol. My favorites are
Katharine McPhee and Chris Daughtry
I also really like Paris Bennett, Taylor Hicks, Kellie Pickler,and
Ace Young.

Mandisa, Elliott Yamin, Jose "sway" Penala, Lisa Tucker, and Ayla
Brown are quite good as well.

Bobby Bennett, Stevie Scott, Patrick Hall, and Becky O'Donohue were
eliminated last week.
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/



Nashville Star is about to start up on March 14th
you can now see videos of the contestants
I'm very impressed with Chris Young  and Kristen McNamera.
I also like Shy Blakeman and Nicole Jamrose.
http://www.usanetwork.com/series/nashvillestar/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

TRULY EXCELLENT EVENT

Texas Heritage Songwriters Association

On Sunday, March 12th
3:00 pm at
Hills Cafe in
Austin, TX (4700 South Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78745)
the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association
www.texasheritagesongwriters.com
will be honoring the following Texas Songwriters
Freddy Powers,
Sonny Throckmorton, and
Kris Kristofferson.
Each writer will perform thirty minute sets with their bands.
Also the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association will be honoring
former UT football coach Darrell Royal for his contributions in
supporting Texas songwriters.

The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association will be honoring several
songwriters who are deceased and
Allen Shamblin, Monty Warden, Kimmie Rhodes and a few others will
perform tributes to these writers.
The seating is limited
The event will be at Hills Cafe in Austin, TX.
Tickets are $15.00.
You can only get them on line at
www.texasheritagesongwriters.com

There will be other surprise guests!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I'm EXTREMELY pleased with the demos, Eric Copeland produced for me.
He is a true Christian Craftsman. Have a listen and decide for
yourself.  ~ Ande Rasmussen
Tumble
http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=12547
http://www.creativesoulonline.com/listen.htm


Creative Soul is a production company based in Nashville, TN and
can  take your musical idea from bare demo to complete arrangement
on any  budget.

Producer Eric Copeland has been helping artists around the US and
the  world for years, producing hundreds of albums, singles, and
demos.

"We have access to the best musicians, studios, and engineers in
the  world for higher budgets, or we can just help you put together
a lower  cost, pro demo of your music. We are artist-based, not
industry-based.  This means we want to help you be successful with
your music any way we  can."

Creative Soul serves many in the CCM market, being located near
Franklin, TN, but also specializes in pop, rocks, R&B, and jazz
styles.

For more information, check out
www.creativesoulonline.com/music.htm

_____

EC
-------------------------------------------------------------
Eric Copeland
Creative Soul  |  Music Production, Demo Services, Consultation
www.CreativeSoulOnline.com
Nashville, TN  |  615-400-3910

Free New Christian Music Radio
www.CreativeSoulRadio.com
-------------------------------------------------------------

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

rachelhauck@... writes:

Hey Ande,

I'm writing a fictional book, Lost In NashVegas, that comes out in
October 2006. My publisher is Thomas Nelson's WestBow Press out of
Nashville.

Anyway, my protagonist is a songwriter. She moves to Nashville
to "make it."

I'd love to hear real experiences from those who've moved to
Nashville, or have spent some time there pitching songs, singing open
mics, networked. Is it possible to post a request to your email? They
can email their experience or stories to me at:

rachelhauck@...

Thanks, Rachel

*************************
www.rachelhauck.com
Heartsong Presents Lambert's Peace - February 2006
Steeple Hill Caf� "Georgia On Her Mind" - August 2006
WestBow Press "Lost In Nashvegas" October 2006

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Singer Searching for Songs

Rustie Blue is preparing to record her next cd! While Rustie is a
great songwriter, she knows there are some great, unrecorded songs
out there! Rustie is looking for upbeat as well as strong ballads,
traditional country as well as mainstream. Rustie has quite a range
to her voice, so send her something challenging!

Rustie has been getting a lot of attention lately! Her current
single, "Cloud Of Dust," debuted on the R&R chart, and was "picked"
during Blair Garner's "Pick it or Flick it". She has appeared in
Country Weekly, and was Music City News "Artist of Interest" in
August. Her current cd, Chip Chip, includes a duet with Bill Anderson
and a song written by Deborah Allen.

To get a feel for what she can do, please visit her website or e-
press kit (below). Please mail (no MP3s, please) up to 3 of your best
to:

Center Stage Productions
Robert D. Keister
512 West Sixth Ave.
Lancaster, OH 43130

740.653.1916

www.csphome.com

www.RustieBlue.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Just Plain Folks Member Daniel Ho Wins Grammy: Here's How It
Happened!

http://www.justplainfolks.org/ubb/Forum2/HTML/005227.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ROCK STAR: "THE SERIES"
RETURNS THIS SUMMER TO THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

CBSs ROCK STAR returns for a second season in Summer, 2006.  Casting
for this
sleeper-hit series will begin in early March, 2006.  Applications for
potential
singers can be found at www.CBS.com and

http://rockstar.msn.com.  ROCK STAR:
"THE SERIES" auditions are open to men and women all over the world
who are at
least 21 years-old.

Open calls for ROCK STAR will take place in the following cities on
the
following dates (cities are subject to change; venues will be
announced at a
later date):

March 01, 2006  AUSTIN, TX
March 03, 2006  BOSTON, MA
March 06, 2006  ATLANTA, GA
March 08, 2006 NEW YORK, NY
March 11, 2006  CHICAGO, IL
March 13, 2006  TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
March 16, 2006  MINNEAPOLIS, MN
March 18, 2006  SEATTLE, WA
March 21, 2006  SAN FRANCISCO, CA
March 23, 2006  VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
March 31, 2006 LOS ANGELES, CA

Last summer's inaugural edition of ROCK STAR averaged 6.32 million
viewers on Tuesday, winning its time period in adults 18-49 (3.1/8)
while the Wednesday performance show averaged 5.44 million viewers.
Both the Tuesday and Wednesday shows increased their ratings
throughout the summer, culminating with a season high 7.83 million
viewers for the finale.
The series will be produced by Mark Burnett Productions.

~ ~ ~ ~

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

posted by Derek at CD Baby on Sunday February 19 2006 @ 08:16AM PST

   We're going to start a new section on the CD Baby site about
musician success stories. Artists who have a great/newsworthy success
with something related to CD Baby.

It could be a story of how you sold 1000 CDs, how you got your music
into film/TV, or anything like that.

Send a SHORT summary of the story to ss@... (get it? "ss" =
success stories. ss@...). You can do this any time. Doesn't
need to be now. It could be years from now. This will be an ongoing
thing.

We'll constantly go through the short summaries submitted, and if it
sounds really interesting, we'll ask you to give more details, so we
can turn it into a full-length story. It's limited to one story per-
artist, to give more people a chance.

All I ask is that you keep the information useful to others. Don't
just say "we got played on 300 radio stations" - tell HOW you did it,
and give some advice to your fellow musicians on what you learned and
what you would recommend.

from
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/02/19/5792653.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's an interesting email from TAXI

Dear Passengers,

I promised to turn you on to some of my favorite marketing
techniques, so let's
get down to business!

Did you know that on average, each of us is hit with something crazy
like 3,000 different marketing messages per day? Yep, per day!

So, is it any wonder that it's getting harder and harder to break
through the noise and get your message into the psyche of your
intended targets? Then again,
what IS your message, and
WHO are your intended targets.

If I had a dime for every person I've met who has recorded an album
and pressed a thousand CDs or more, I'd be rich.

If I had a dime for every person who whacked out a thousand CDs and
still has eight hundred sitting in the basement years later, I'd be
Bill Gates!

If you're going to manufacture them, you'd better know how to SELL
them first.
"But Michael, I'm a creative type person. I'm not good at the
business stuff,"
you say.

"Bummer," I say!

It's a new day and age kiddos, and the era of having the label do all
the work
for you is long gone. Everybody's talking about how Indies are going
to rule the
world, and they're probably right. But it's going to be the
Independent artists
with a marketing plan who will win the day.

When I say the word, "Volvo," what do you think of?

Uh-huh, "safety"!

When I say, "BMW," you think of the "Ultimate Driving Machine" don't
you?

"Safety" is Volvo's Unique Selling Proposition, or USP. That
brand "owns" that
little piece of real estate in your brain.

I didn't invent this stuff, but I've read hundreds of books about it,
and know
that it works.

So, now let's use it for your music. When I say, "Your Music," what's
the first
thing that pops in to the heads of your fans?

Did you come up empty handed? If so, then you're robbing yourself of
the best
marketing tool you could have. A USP is the root of most everything
you do in
marketing. Without it, you're just another one of those 3,000
marketing messages
that will hit your potential audience in the face today, and probably
go
unnoticed.

Most artists have never had a USP -- and I'm talking about the big
boys and
girls . . . you know, the major label artists. Just imagine how much
MORE
successful they might have been if they had a USP!

So, that's your homework assignment for this week. Come up with your
USP.
Describe your music in just a few short words. AND, tell me what
makes it unique
in the world.

TAXI's USP is, "The World's Leading Independent A&R Company."

Truly being the world's leading anything makes you unique. It also
tells people
that to use any other company probably means that they're NOT using
the world's
leader, and therefore may be settling for 2nd best. A subtle
implication, but
sometimes that's what makes the difference.

So, what makes your music unique and worth talking about?

Yes, worth TALKING about.

We all know that word of mouth is the best marketing tool of all. So,
not only
do you have to get people talking about you because you're unique,
you have to
give them a concise description they can easily remember and pass
along to their
friends.

And don't fall in to the trap of trying to be all things to all
people. "We do
Rock, Pop, Country, and a little R&B!" the band members said proudly.

"What ARE they?" asked their potential listeners.

This relates back to the "Don't let your music fall between the
cracks" topic,
doesn't it? You've got to be ONE thing, or you risk being nothing at
all. To
clearly define yourself is to make it easier for your "customers" to
understand
what you are, and to tell others about you.

Some other examples of USPs, quoted from Jack Trout's terrific
book, "The Power
of Simplicity":

"You can certainly (derive your USP) in terms of product attributes.
(Volvo:
Drive safely.) Or you can do it by preference. (Tylenol: Pain
reliever hospitals
use the most.) Heritage is always good. (Stolichnaya: The Russian
vodka.)
Reliability is a reliable way. (Maytag: The lonely repairman.) Being
first is
different. (Coke: The real thing.) Convenience is always a winner.
(Fresh
Express: Pre-packaged lettuce.) Being first in sales is the simplest,
easiest
and most direct way to say you're better. (Toyota: The best selling
car in
America.)"

So, what are you? What is your music? What is it about your music that
differentiates it? What makes it remarkable?

Don't fret if you don't come up with a USP in five minutes. It took
me years to
get it right with TAXI, and only then because we HAD become the
world's leading
independent A&R company.

Do your homework! I'm going to go help my kids with theirs, and I'll
talk to you
next week.

Till then,

Michael

P.S. I know it's late in the game, but I just found out about this
very recently
myself. The Digital Music Forum is being held in New York next week,
and I'll be
on the panel discussing the future of Indie music.

This conference is more for digital futurists than for bands or
artists trying
to get signed, but I've got to believe we've got some digital
futurists on this
list.

Here's a link to check out it. It looks GREAT! I hope to see you
there!
www.digitalmusicforum.com

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT "EAR FATIGUE"?

The first step is acknowledging that ear fatigue is a common problem
in the
studio, primarily during overdubs and mixing. The best way to combat
this is to
work at low volume. While turning the monitors up may inspire you to
create a
great mix, you can work much longer with a clear head by keeping the
levels
down. (Naturally, you'll need to crank it up every now and then to
make sure the
mix is exciting.)

Tip: If the guitar player is in the control room and needs to hear it
really
loud -- maybe even to the point of creating feedback through the
control room's
monitors -- wear earplugs and let the musicians' ears bleed if they
want.

One of the keys to a successful mix is to take frequent breaks. Maybe
it's a
five-minute break every hour or a 20-minute break every few hours.
It's easy to
get so deep in the process of tweaking levels and frequencies that
you start to
lose perspective. Eventually, you don't realize that you can't hear
anymore. If
the client is there with you and paying you by the hour, don't be shy
about
stepping away from the console several times.

Also, be careful about packing too many hours into a mix session.
It's tempting
when you're on a roll (or if you've blocked out a studio for 24
hours) to keep
going for 12, 16 or even 20 hours of mixing. But there are two
reasons to cut
your session short before then. One, your ears naturally shut down
after too
much exposure, and finding the right frequency to tweak can get
elusive. Two,
there's a tremendous benefit to sleeping on it. You can learn the
same things in
fifteen minutes the next day as in 3 hours of late night hair-pulling.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The information above came from "Studio Buddy -- The Home Recording
Helper."
It's a self-contained, easy to use database of recording tips designed
specifically for people with home studios. If you find this article
helpful, you
should download the FREE program at:

      http://www.studiobuddy.com

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

Do I need to copyright my material?

Technically, a song is copyrighted at the moment you write it down or
record it.
However, you should always register your copyright with the Copyright
Office so
you can PROVE that the song is yours, and when you created it.

How do I copyright my songs?

Contact the U.S. Copyright office at (202) 707-9100, or download the
forms you
will need to submit.

What are the chances my song will be stolen?

Pretty darn slim. I've been in the business for thirty years, and
I've never
personally known anybody who really had a song stolen. I've met the
occasional
person who had a song that did bear resemblance to another song, but
there was
no connection between the two writers that would have permitted the
theft.

Have you ever noticed that most of the big copyright infringement
cases are
against huge stars like Michael Jackson? My guess is that people who
are looking
for a quick settlement from a wealthy star in order to avoid the
embarrassment
of a lengthy court trial bring many of the high-profile suits.

That being said you should always register the copyright to your
material. You
don't want to be the first person to prove my theory wrong.

Should I copyright my material before submitting to TAXI?

Yes. You should copyright it before sending it to anybody. But, don't
wait to
for the registration confirmation to come back to you. The copyright
office
takes months (often 6 months or more!) to get the confirmation back
to you. As
long as you've sent the form(s) in, you're good to go.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Read more in TAXI's "Music Biz FAQs," a helpful collection of
articles and tips
on everything you need to know about the music industry:

http://www.taxi.com/faq


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Derek at CDBaby announced the following
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/02/08/3949734.html

look at how rapidly digital revs are doing vs CD revs

check out CDBaby's month by month growth since the beginning:
http://cdbaby.org/cdbaby-sales-2005-large.png

here's some MORE cool stuff Derek Shared

great advice from other people
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/02/05/7975227.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ever thought about creating a wealth partner program for those who
help you SELL your CD's

http://www.faithrivera.com/fr/Connection.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


I love to hear from IFS Readers

Hey Ande,

I've been reading IFS for a while, and wanted to write you a quick
note to thank you for such a GREAT newsletter.

I'm not much of a songwriter (or maybe I'm just a lazy one), but
have been really encouraged and inspired by IFS... so much so that I
signed up for a year at SongU and signed up at Just Plain Folks this
week!

Thanks again - oh, and if you know of anyone who may need a female
vocalist (for demos or some such - I put a small ad up on SongU's
classifieds board today), please let me know.  I'm really eager to
make some connections and broaden my musical horizons.

Thanks!
Amelia Kleymann
Dallas, Texas

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write songs about Current Events

You've got to be on your toes
Pay attention to current events
Eventually someone famous is going to do something that deserves a
song.

Recently our vice president accidentally shot an attorney on a quail
hunt at a South Texas ranch.

At the Folk Alliance in Austin, they challenged songwriters to write
a song about it, gave them 24 hours to come up with something.  10
songwriters worked on it and submitted entries.   My cowriter,
friend and IFS reader Steve Brooks was selected as the winner.

When something songworthy happens you've got to move fast, write
something strong, record it and get it out before the headlines are
forgotten.

You also need to decide if you're going to create an original or a
parody

The Bob Rivers Show (www.bobrivers.com) heard weekdays from 5-10 am
on 102.5 KZOK FM, in  Seattle's created a parody about the incident
called Cheney's Got a Gun  written to Aerosmith's Janey Got a Gun
http://www.bobrivers.com/audiovault/downloads/downloads.asp
http://top40-charts.com/news.php?nid=20902

Find a great idea to write about and move quick! Get it written, get
it on the radio, get it on itunes,
Time is ticking.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

And the top 24 Idol finalists are


Girls

katherine mcfee
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/katharine_mcphee/

mandisa
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/mandisa/

Melissa McGhee
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/melissa_mcghee/

Lisa Tucker
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/lisa_tucker/

Brenna Gethers
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/brenna_gethers/

Stephanie Scott
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/stevie_scott/

Ayla Brown
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/ayla_brown/

Rebecca O'Donahue
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/becky_odonohue/

Heather Cox
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/heather_cox/

Paris Bennett
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/paris_bennett/

Kellie Pickler
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/kellie_pickler/

Kinnik Sky
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/kinnik_sky/


Boys

ace young
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/ace_young/

robert bennett
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/bobby_bennett/

david radford
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/david_radford/

sway penala
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/jose_sway_penala/

elliot yamin
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/elliott_yamin/

gideon mckinney
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/gedeon_mckinney/

chris daughtrey
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/chris_daughtry/

bucky covington
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/bucky_covington/

patrick hall
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/patrick_hall/

kevin covais
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/kevin_covais/

taylor hicks
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/taylor_hicks/

william makar
http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/will_makar/

http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Blog: Music supervisors should get Oscars
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/entertainment/13880356.htm

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Want to learn "How to Get Somewhere in the Music Business from
Nowhere with Nothing."

Here is an opportunity to meet with Music Industry Publisher Mary
Dawson, of CQK Music.
http://www.iwritethesongs.com/home/home.cfm

Mary will speak to the business and promotional side of
songwriting.  She will follow up with group and individual songs
critiques.


When: Sunday February 19th,  12:00pm to 3pm.
Where: The Black Lab, 4100 Montrose, 77006,   713-529-1199
http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?
addr=4100+Montrose&csz=77006&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Cost: $10 + your lunch cost.
(The Black Lab is pleased to host this event in the Churchill room,
but in return we'll need to order lunch.  Please note The Black Lab
adds a 20% tip on large parties.  You might bring cash to pay for
lunch as separate checks could take a long time to close out).

RSVP:  You will need to RSVP to the event so we know how many to
expect.   The first 6 people to RSVP will receive a free group song
critique.

Agenda:
11:45 - 12:00 Arrive
12:00 - 12:30 order lunch
12:30 Featured Speaker
1:30 � Question & Answer period
2:00 � Group song critiques
3:00 � wrap up, (Begin private critiques)

How the song critiques work:
A group critique will take ~ 8-10 minutes.
You'll need to bring a copy of your lyric and a CD with your song.
Mary will critique your song in front of the group.
Mary is available for private one on one critiques.  These will
being at 3:00.   RSVP to reserve your time slot.
1 song = $25;
2 songs = $40;
3 songs = $50.

for details email
dbannen@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Creative Soul is a production company based in Nashville, TN and
can  take your musical idea from bare demo to complete arrangement
on any  budget.

Producer Eric Copeland has been helping artists around the US and
the  world for years, producing hundreds of albums, singles, and
demos.

"We have access to the best musicians, studios, and engineers in
the  world for higher budgets, or we can just help you put together
a lower  cost, pro demo of your music. We are artist-based, not
industry-based.  This means we want to help you be successful with
your music any way we  can."

** Ande quote here **

Creative Soul serves many in the CCM market, being located near
Franklin, TN, but also specializes in pop, rocks, R&B, and jazz
styles.

For more information, check out
www.creativesoulonline.com/music.htm

_____

EC
-------------------------------------------------------------
Eric Copeland
Creative Soul  |  Music Production, Demo Services, Consultation
www.CreativeSoulOnline.com
Nashville, TN  |  615-400-3910

Free New Christian Music Radio
www.CreativeSoulRadio.com
-------------------------------------------------------------

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's a recent announcement from our friends at SongU
drop by
www.SongU.com/ifs

Hi everyone,

As mentioned in the campus news this week, we're rolling out the NEW
and improved Spin N' Pitch upgrades this week with the February 15th
pitches. There are new opportunities, additional screeners and cool
new features for everyone. As before, we will continue to provide
this service for NO additional cost. In other words, SongU.com
absorbs the cost of storage, screeners, our new A&R consultant,
CD's, labels, etc. What we do ask of you is that you are selective
in what you pitch. We want to establish SongU.com as a place where
quality songs are the end result of learning and working at the
craft of songwriting. We can only do that if you pitch competitive
songs that are ready to go. And while getting songs recorded will
still require a magical combination of a great song, the right
artist, undeterred determination and some luck, we hope you'll enjoy
the new features and opportunities associated with Spin N' Pitch.

There's a lot of information below. But if you are (or plan on)
participating in the Spin N' Pitch opportunities, please do take the
time to read and become familiar with the new procedures.

The NEW Spin N' Pitch Is Here!
I'll run down how the new Spin N' Pitch will now operate, including
listing some of the brand new features below. On a related note,
we've also added several more screeners to our stable of screeners.
This should help cancel out some of the subjectivity that happens in
a very subjective business. Still, if a song consistently does not
get forwarded by the screeners, it's likely that something isn't
working about the song. Also, in combination with our new Spin N'
Pitch features, our lawyers have requested all members now agree to
a release/consent with each pitch. It's a simple checkbox on the
bottom of the page where you paste in your lyrics and basically is
there to cover stuff related to the street pitches (like giving us
permission to burn a CD, etc.) as well as features specific to the
screened and unscreened pitches.

Ok - here we go...
A. Screened Pitches - As before, we will continue to have
screened pitches in a variety of genres. These will typically be
updated every 2 weeks and will be for very competitive pitches
(e.g., major label, major-station TV show) where you are competing
against the best songwriters in the world for the cut.

Summary Of Screened Pitches:
o Screened Pitches Are Very Competitive: The bar for getting
forwarded on these is that your song must be competitive against
other professional writers, not other SU members. Music industry
professionals have very good memories for bad songs. If we invite a
top producer to listen to songs from our members and they hear songs
that they believe aren't competitive, it's unlikely we will be able
to get that producer to listen to our members' songs again (and
that's not good for anyone). So if none of the songs are competitive
enough for a pitch, none will get forwarded. If all of them are
competitive, all of them will get forwarded.
o You Will Receive Notification From Screeners. You will be
notified when your song is screened and whether or not it's
forwarded. Sometimes you will receive this feedback before the pitch
deadline while other times it may be after the pitch deadline.
o But You Will Not Receive Detailed Feedback From The
Screeners. A screener may include some information why your song
isn't forwarded, but their function is really that of a yes/no
person. While you may not agree with their decisions all the time
(particularly when they "pass" on one of your new "babies"), we have
to respect their judgment. Run it by one of the SU coaches or bring
it to a feedback class where we can all decide whether the screener
is off their rocker or whether something is inherently wrong with
the song.
o And You Probably Will Not Receive Notification From Industry
Guest Unless They're Interested. As is customary in the industry,
you will only receive notification if someone is interested in your
song (that's usually the only time we're notified). That's just
customary practice. In a perfect world, we'd get a personal phone
call anytime anyone listened to our song with the reasons why they
don't think it's appropriate for their artist. But in the imperfect
music industry where A&R reps and producers listen to over a 1000
songs per week, it just doesn't happen. Believe me, if they love a
song, they will hunt you down and find you somehow. If we do receive
any other information, we will be sure to forward it on to you.

B. (new!) Street Pitches - This is a new category and
represents a special type of "screened" pitch. We have contracted
with a professional A&R consultant who will be screening songs for
upcoming pitch meetings. If your song is accepted, it will be burned
onto CD and will go with the A&R consultant to the meeting to be
hand delivered. You will also see special types of "street" pitches
indicated as a "Quick Pitch". These are street pitches with a very
quick turnaround. In other words, the artist may already be in the
studio or they may have dropped a song from their project and
suddenly need another one.
Summary Of Street Pitches:
o Street Pitches Are Very, Very Competitive: The bar for
getting forwarded on these is that the A&R consultant (who will
screen all these pitches) must feel confident enough about the song
to walk into a meeting with it or hand deliver it personally to the
contact person.
o You Will Receive Notification From The Screener/A&R
Consultant. You will be notified when your song is listened to by
our A&R consultant and told whether or not the song will be pitched
to the contact. Sometimes you will receive this feedback before the
pitch deadline while other times it may be after the pitch deadline.
o You Will Not Receive Detailed Feedback From The Screener/A&R
Consultant. The A&R consultant may include some information why your
song isn't forwarded, but their function is really that of a yes/no
person. While you may not agree with their decisions all the time
(particularly when they "pass" on one of your new "babies"), we have
to respect their judgment since they are the ones who have to
present the song.
o You Probably Will Not Receive Notification From The Industry
Contact Who Listened Unless They're Interested. As is customary in
the industry, you will only receive notification if someone is
interested in your song (that's usually the only time we're
notified). That's just customary practice. In a perfect world, we'd
get a personal phone call anytime anyone listened to our song with
the reasons why they don't think it's appropriate for their artist.
But in the imperfect music industry where A&R reps and producers
listen to over a 1000 songs per week, it just doesn't happen.
Believe me, if they love a song, they will hunt you down and find
you somehow. If we do receive any other information from the contact
or our A&R consultant, we will be sure to forward it on to you.

C. (new!) Unscreened Pitches - Ok. This is your opportunity to
be your own screener! Each month we will also be adding pitches that
will not be screened, but instead, will go directly to the artist
and/or contact person. These may be primarily independent artists
and other on-going pitch opportunities like The Slideshow Company.
We're trusting you to read the details of the pitch, and pitch your
songs appropriately.
Summary Of Unscreened Pitches:
o These Go Directly To The Contact. Since there is no
screening on this process, what you pitch will go directly to the
contact person. Because of this, you can't "cancel" or remove a
pitch (i.e., take it back). As soon as you submit it, it's on its
way. Therefore we ask that you cast your pitches objectively like a
professional songwriter.
o You MUST Pitch Appropriately. Read the entire pitch
description and pitch appropriately. Don't waste the artist's time.
While there may be occasions when you're sitting in a meeting with
someone when you can say, "hey, I know you want uptempos, but take a
listen to this ballad" -- we cannot do this online. If an artist
requests uptempos, pitch only uptempos. If they request Jazz, do not
pitch a country demo with pedal steel or a hip-hop track and expect
them to hear through it. Anything you pitch inappropriately not only
reflects poorly on you, it also hurts other SU members chances
because it makes it less likely the artist will take other pitches
from SongU.com members seriously. If we hear back from a contact
that they have received poorly cast songs from an SU member, that
member will receive a one-time warning. Any further infraction will
result in a loss of pitching privileges.
o You May Or May Not Receive Notification From The Contact.
There's no way to know whether or not the contact will respond
personally. It probably just depends on the number of submissions
they receive. Again, the custom in the industry is that you only
receive notification if someone is interested in your song. If we do
receive any other information, we will be sure to forward it on to
you.
I've included the above information as part of the Spin N' Pitch FAQ
so that you can refresh your mind from time to time. As far as the
transition to the new Spin N' Pitch goes, we don't anticipate any
technical glitches, but in the world of computers, you never know.
We'll also be doing some technical enhancements to the "My Pitching"
page (pitching history, etc.) over the next month too. As usual, if
you experience anything weird or have any questions, don't hesitate
to email me.

Naturally we'll continue to work toward making new contacts and
finding new outlets for your music and will keep adding to the
variety of pitch opportunities for you. Remember that the guiding
philosophy at SongU.com is educational. Spin N' Pitch is also
educational in that it will give you real world experience pitching.
That's the good and bad...it's exciting to be able to pitch your
songs, and it's frustrating when they don't get forwarded or you
don't hear anything back. But that is part of what you must learn as
a professional writer. You should continue to learn as much as you
can and become the best writer you can while forming relationships
with co-writers and others (don't forget to enjoy the process along
the way too). Ultimately, this is what will improve your odds of
something happening with one of your songs.

See you "on campus",

-Danny
Danny Arena
www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Willie Nelson Released a song called

Cowboys Are Frequently, Secretly (Fond of Each Other)

You can find it on Itunes

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singer Searching for Song

rdkeister@... writes:

Hi Ande,

I hope all is going well.   I'm looking for songs for country artist
Rustie Blue for her next project.  (upbeat as well as ballads).  I'm
just beginning to look for songs.  It will be awhile before she goes
into the studio.  I was wondering if you could help me in putting
the word out?

Thanks so much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great weekend!
Bob

Mailing address:

Center Stage Productions
Robert D. Keister
512 West Sixth Ave.
Lancaster, OH  43130

740.653.1916
www.rustieblue.com

Listen to samples of Rustie's voice/style here:
http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/blue_rustie/1200305/album.jhtml

Rustie also has a page on myspace at www.myspace.com/rustieblue

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.nbc.com/Movies_Specials_More/Star_Tomorrow/

IN A NETWORK FIRST, NBC & FAMED MUSIC EXEC TOMMY MOTTOLA ARE
LAUNCHING 'StarTomorrow,' A NEW ONLINE COMPETITION SERIES THAT LETS
FANS DECIDE THE WINNER!


Send Tapes To:
StarTomorrow
10061 Riverside Drive
Toluca Lake, CA 91602
Does your garage band rock the local scene? Is your musical group
destined to be the next Destiny's Child? Musicians and performers
alike are encouraged to submit their performance tapes to this new,
online competition.

Marking the first time that a network has offered a full national
series on broadband, NBC introduces "StarTomorrow," an interactive
competitive music program that will allow viewers to choose the
first Internet superstar band or singing group - and will reward the
winners with a recording deal with legendary music executive Tommy
Mottola and his Casablanca Record label.

The nationwide search will ultimately narrow the field down to
approximately 100 of America's best groups (singers with no
instruments) and bands that have been screened for entry into the
competition. The final 100 will be rolled out weekly in smaller
groups online at NBC.com.




  SUBMIT YOUR BAND OR GROUP NOW.

Download the release form, click here. Send the completed/signed
release and your VHS tape or DVD to the address list.

Rules To Live By:


All band/group members must be 18 years old in order to be
considered for the competition.
Each person in your band or group must fill out and sign a separate
release form.
Your submission should not include logos or artwork (including that
on clothing) for which you do not own the copyright or trademark.
Bands/groups must submit themselves performing one original song and
one cover song.
Selected participants will be responsible to pay for their own
travel/accomodations to one of four regional competitions to be
determined at a later date.
Only VHS and/or DVD formats accepted.
Official contest rules and eligibility requirements will be posted
at a later date. Bands will also be asked to sign further
authorization and release forms which will be available at a later
date. Failure to meet these requirements will result in elimination
from consideration.
http://www.nbc.com/Movies_Specials_More/Star_Tomorrow/Appearance_Rele
ase_020706.pdf

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs


Here's a TRULY EXCELLENT article about
"God Blessed The Broken Road"
which is nominated as Grammy Song of the YEAR
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ALL SONGWRITERS read it:
http://tinyurl.com/9r9o2

you can hear Marcus Hummon's version of Broken Road at:
http://cdbaby.com/cd/hummon6/from/ande



Dear IFS Readers

I hope this issue finds you well

If anyone's in Austin for the folk alliance
please call me and say hi, my office is 2 blocks from the event
maybe we can have lunch or something.  512-217-2728

Last Saturday my mailman handed me a wonderful surprise, he was
delivering a package I needed to sign for and he held our mail in
his other hand, in the batch of mail was a letter from my cowriter /
artist Jen Rathbun http://www.jenrathbun.com
It was for royalties from CD sales and Itunes downloads from her
"Coffee Chocolate and Men" CD

my cuts and cowrites on her CD are:

7. Married, Buried or Gay
9. Coffee, Chocolate & Men
11. Seven

you can find Jen's CD at
http://cdbaby.com/cd/rathbun2/from/ande

I think these are the first royalty payments I've gotten for Itunes
downloads

thanks to Jen, CDBABY and Itunes,


It surprises me that more people don't invite me to cowrite,
sometimes I stumble upon some really great song ideas and they just
sit there burning a hole in my journal.

IFS IDEAS
I created the IFS_Ideas yahoogroup to archive future IFS story ideas
So if you would like to submit an IFS story idea or BLURB for me to
consider, send an email to

IFS_Ideas@yahoogroups.com

Write the topic in the SUBJECT FIELD

I look forward to seeing your submissions

SOON IFS is gonna run another
LET THE WORLD KNOW ISSUE
LTWK

it's in our archive find out what it's about.

Ande


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Feb. 21 2nd DECADE OF THE ASCAP/DISNEY MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP IN
LA Directed by Stephen Schwartz Tues., February 21     Mon,,
February 27, Tues., February 28, Wed.. March 1, Thurs., March

March  15th-19, SXSW, Austin Tx http://www.sxsw.com

May 19th- 21st  Wildflower Festival, Richardson, Texas
www.wildflowerfestival.com
Wildflower Festival Performing Songwriter Contest
Deadline March 21, 2006

http://www.wildflowerfestival.com




~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.imdb.com
you can pull up just about any movie or TV show
you can click on memorable quotes and you might stumble upon a song
idea

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dallas SongWriters Group Has created 2 yahoogroups
1) for general announcmencements
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dallassongwritersassociation
2) another for members only with pitch opportunity information
=============================================
13.  YAHOO GROUPS & NEWSLETTER - Tell Your Friends
We have 2 Yahoo Groups -
MEMBERS ONLY: dallassongwriters@yahoogroups.com - for members only.
An easy way to get timely e-mails about singers and publishers
searching for songs and last minute events. Members may also inform
the group about performance dates and ask industry related questions
of the membership. Members are verified for current membership and
will have paid a membership fee.
and
ANYONE WHO WANTS E-NEWS:
dallassongwritersassociation@yahoogroups.com . A general list for
anyone interested in keeping up with songwriting events and other
interesting stuff. Generally you will get 1 or 2 emails a month.
This is a Distribution only group - meaning that only
the "moderators"  can send out emails, and they go out to all the
members of the group. The group is listed in the Yahoo directory,
and open for ANYONE to join.
Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dallassongwritersassociation and
click on "JOIN THIS GROUP".

The Dallas Songwriters Association is a non-profit educational
organization dedicated to educating it's members on the craft and
business of Songwriting. Monthly meetings, showcases, workshops,
newsletter, quarterly lyric contest, yearly song contest and
networking events. Join this group to keep up with what's happening
in the music industry.
For more information call 214 750-0916 or visit the
website at www.dallassongwriters.org.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.broadjam.com/

Exposure is everything, and the more places you can sell your music
the better, right? These pages explain how you can sell music
downloads on Broadjam. They also explain how you'll get paid, how
your music will be priced, and how to manage your earnings.

It helps to have a space online where you can sell music to your
fans. Your best fans would love to get your music the day it was
finished. Post your latest stuff and sell it to your fans up to
minutes after it's completed.
Broadjam lets you sell downloads for $.99 and keep over 80% of the
sales. In a market where distributors have the control, this gives
you a rare opportunity to level the playing field.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I really like Daniel Powter's "Bad Day" song
http://www.myspace.com/danielpowter
It's super catchy
http://www.danielpowter.fr

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

John Corbett: 'Acting Simply Meant Money To Launch My Music Career'
http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2006/02/07/john_corbett_actin
g_simply_meant_money_t

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

From: "James Moore" <jemoore667@...>
Subject: Calls for new Christian Music

Hi Eric and the rest,

I wanted to let everyone know that we've added a great new feature
to the Christian Songwriter's Network (CSN) forum, where you can
place calls for music (this is the only place in our forum that you
can post without registering, to make it super easy).  If you're
looking for some new original music, please give the CSN a try - we
now have almost 650 members - there's just about bound to be a
good fit for the type of song you need.  The link is:
http://forum.christiansongwriters.org/viewforum.php?f=25

(this is of course a free resource...)

Thanks and God bless,
James Moore
Panama City Beach, FL

http://forum.christiansongwriters.org <- my forum for Christian
songwriters
http://movingtowardchrist.com <- my personal music ministry site
http://liveagain.freelife.com <- my Himalayan Goji Juice site (or
read about how Goji juice has helped me come off pain medications
for my back at http://gojifactorfiction.com )
Pastors, worship leaders, prospective artists, etc.: email
info@... for access to my hidden free mp3
download page.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.texasmusicawards.org/

Voting has started for this year's Texas Music Awards. jAm is a
finalist in the "Entertainer of the Year" category. The competition
this year is formidable, so every vote for jAm is important.
Encourage
your friends, neighbors, and family to vote, too.

The winners will be announced March 25.

  ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NPR often features stories about singersongwriters

Here's

How to Pitch Story Ideas to NPR

http://www.npr.org/about/pitch/

Suggesting Story Ideas to NPR
The producers, editors, reporters and hosts of NPR programs are
always eager for new stories, fresh ideas, and articulate guests to
communicate those ideas and stories. NPR programs cover every
subject: international news, science, health, business, media,
sports, education, the arts, and entertainment. A number of programs
offer analysis, commentary and opinion, and we are always interested
in the remarkable things people do and the odd things that happen as
a result of life's quirks and coincidences.

How do I submit a commentary or essay?
Please visit our commentary guidelines page.

How to suggest a story: listeners or PR professionals
Please use our story idea submission form.

How to suggest a story: journalists and producers
Most news reports by freelancers and member station reporters come
to NPR's programs via one of our four newsgathering "desks"--
foreign, national, science and arts information. These desks take
pitches and also solicit coverage. Desk editors work with reporters
to shape and focus the story for broadcast. Please do not e-mail our
programs if you want to do a story; contact our liaison to
independents at: freelance@.... Besides news stories, NPR also
accepts audio postcards from freelancers.

Where can I send an idea for a new NPR program?
Please contact Stacey Foxwell, Executive Assistant to the Senior
Vice President for Programming

What is the best way to contact NPR?
The most efficient way is via e-mail. We apologize in advance, but
because of our small staff and budget constraints, we are unable to
respond to telephone enquiries. Although we read every suggestion,
we're unable to personally answer each one. Please use the addresses
listed on the Contact NPR page.

~ ~ ~ ~
How to Suggest a Story Idea
Surprise us. Like all journalists, we are looking for true stories,
events or people that present something new, important and
interesting to a nationwide audience.

Is it for us? Would your story be more interesting to your neighbors
than to people across the country? If so, contact the news
department at your local NPR member station.

Keep it short. One paragraph is best. In all cases, it needs to fit
in the space below. The box will hold about 200 words.

Be specific. Tell us why your story would interest our listeners:
e.g., "For 100 years scientists have assumed they knew all the
orders of insects. Biologist Jim Witherspoon has just proved them
wrong."

Give us a peg. Let us know whether the story is time-sensitive:
e.g., "Witherspoon's story will be published in this week's edition
of Insects Today." Or: "This would be a great story to run with the
anniversary of the Smithsonian next month."

Don't write us with your opinions. This space is for story ideas,
not opinions. You can send your opinions about NPR programming to
the Ombudsman. If you want to submit a commentary, contact a show
directly.

Please, no attachments. You cannot include any attachments with your
message. You can include links to web sites. But don't just send the
link. If you only write, "Hey, look at this!" and include a link,
your idea will not get much attention. Pique our interest with a
message.

Provide contact information. Give us your name, email address and
daytime phone number so we can get in touch with you if we need to.
We will not share this information with anyone outside NPR.
Suggest a Story Idea

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

i found Sara Baker's cute post on Damien Rice's myspace page
http://www.myspace.com/damienrice

check out his song from the movie "Closer" "Blowers Daughter"

I won't shamelessly plug my music or put a huge ass banner that just
annoys most people. I just have one question for you...
will you marry me
http://www.myspace.com/sarabarockstar

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


  "Those Lascivious Biddies could teach us all a thing or two"
CBS Evening News

"Manhattan's hippest Girl Group"
The Washington Post "If The Donnas are rock's answer to girl power,
then
"Angelic vocal harmonies, wordy humor, jazz chops and pop moxie"
Time Out New York

"They're witty and wacky and, to judge by their name, maybe a little
naughty too."
The Boston Globe
www.Biddies4Ever.com for all things Biddy
www.BiddyCast.com for the podcast
www.Biddies4Ever.com/vpk for high-res photos, MP3s, bios, video &
more!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I discovered Renee Olstead on myspace.
She impressed the heck out of me

http://www.reneeolstead.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Your Secretary Can sing


Susan Haynes is a study in contrasts. Beneath her petite frame lies
a steely resolve that willed her to follow a creative path in life
when everyone around her often took the safe route. Her sweet voice
sings with strength about the fragility of honest emotion. She's a
spirited southern belle, cursing and praising with equal ease. And
though she's a perfectionist when it comes to her music, she's
finally found acceptance with being less than perfect herself-an
evolution that's in its full glory on Crooked Little Heart.

"I never said out loud, 'I want to be a singer,'" she surprisingly
admits. "I always wanted to, but I was raised in an atmosphere where
it wasn't appropriate to claim a lot of space or call attention to
yourself. So it took me awhile to be willing to put it out there."

Still, Susan spent her girlhood doing what came naturally, in spite
of a more conventional upbringing. "I have a childhood friend who's
still mad at me," she laughs, "because I always wanted to be Olivia
Newton-John and I made her be Pat Benatar. She brought that up at a
high school reunion. I was like, 'You're a brunette, I'm a blond-
it's not my fault.' There was constant, ridiculous lip-synching. In
the fifth grade I was Snoopy in 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown.'
I sang in high school and college productions. I sang 'Xanadu' on
roller skates one year, and 'Fame' wearing legwarmers. I've got
videotape-it's all very humiliating," she smiles.

The Atlanta, Georgia native-daughter of a corporate litigator father
and a homemaker mother-Susan says singing has always been
her "default" mode. "No matter what I'm doing, I'm always making up
melodies in my head or singing a song. It's always been there, but I
never saw anybody pursue a creative life in my family. I thought
music would be a hobby, although it was always at the very core of
who I am."

So much so that, as a college freshman in Nashville, she finagled a
coveted internship at BNA Records in the A&R department. Upon
graduation, got a job as studio manager at Loud Recording Studio,
owned by legendary producer James Stroud. "I had instinct enough to
say, 'I want to stick around this business just in case,'" remembers
Susan who, at the time was still a "secret" singer. "I thought maybe
I'd be typing a memo and singing loudly and somebody might discover
me," she jokes wryly. "Or maybe somebody would knock on my door one
day and say, 'Hey is anybody here looking for a record deal?'"

As studio manager at Loud-a job title which she says is a "fancy
term for receptionist, cleaning lady and coffee maker"-Susan saw a
string of other singers coming in one by one, recording their albums
or singing demos. "I'd think to myself, 'I can sing as well as
her,'" she jokes. "Whether or not that was true, I don't know, but I
realized, 'Maybe people really can do this for a living.' The more I
was around it, the more it seemed feasible."

And then one day, Susan was discovered almost exactly how she had
once daydreamed. "I was typing up a lyric for a male R&B artist who
happened to be in the studio," she remembers. "It was a song I knew,
and I was singing the lyric so I could type it more easily, from
memory, and he overheard me singing. He went to James Stroud, his
producer, and said, 'Did you know your receptionist can sing?' James
came out and said, 'You sing?' And I stammered, 'Um, maybe...I don't
know...is that bad?' He said, 'Well when you do something, I want to
hear about it.'"

That encouragement spurred Susan to finally start pursuing her
goals. That, and an unraveling marriage. "I got married at 24 and
divorced at 27," she explains. "Before, I had put it off because I'd
been in a real unhealthy marriage that had taken all my energy. I
really didn't do anything to further my career. But when that ended,
I went, 'I have no excuse now.' I knew I had to honor that part of
my spirit if I was going to be happy. And that meant getting to it."

Susan got to it by playing some of her demos for Dann Huff, who was
then Stroud's right hand man and an aspiring producer. He offered to
produce her, but by the time Susan felt she'd found her artistic
voice, Dann had gone from "aspiring" to "most-wanted" producer. He
was at the helm of Faith Hill's multi-platinum Faith album, and a
host of other big names in country music. Susan suddenly found
herself waiting at the back of the line for Dann's busy schedule to
open up. She used the time to develop her writing, as a staff writer
for EMI Publishing.

"That was a turning point for me," says Susan, "because I'd gone
through the divorce and then I finally found my artistic angle. In
that experience, I learned how to be more authentic, genuine and
honest about who I was. Once I discovered that part of myself, I
thought, 'Okay now I'm truly ready to sing something.' Until then, I
didn't even convince myself when I sang."

It was during this time that Susan wrote "Crooked Little Heart"-the
song that is now the first single and the title cut of her debut
album. It's a tortured confession of someone stuck in an unhealthy
relationship, and an unflinching admission of personal
imperfections. The song's tone is a theme running throughout the
album. The musically upbeat "Damn This Tangled Mind" (one of the
five songs Susan co-wrote) speaks of being unable to move on from an
old love; the raucous opener, "Drinkin' In My Sunday Dress,"
celebrates a bed-ridden bender with tongue squarely in cheek; and
the aching ballad "Being Gone" eloquently describes the ending of a
co-dependent relationship.

"I am much more likely to be the person that says, 'I messed up,'
than to look at you and say, 'You did me wrong,'" admits Susan. "For
a long time, as most people do, I tried to hide my imperfections.
You try to hide that part of yourself you don't like very much. I
hit a real wall when my marriage failed and I didn't have a job. My
life wasn't turning out the way I thought it was supposed to. I had
to figure out how to like myself, having 'failed' on several levels.
I would argue now that it wasn't truly a failure. It was something I
needed to go through. It helped me to embrace what wasn't perfect,
and what was flawed and very vulnerable about myself."

Susan brought this newfound self-awareness into the studio when she
finally was able to record with Dann. "It was surreal," she recalls
of that first day. "I was so nervous I made myself sick. I didn't
sleep for three days. I'd gotten so wound up because I'd waited for
so long. But then I walked into the vocal booth and did the first
song. And I went, 'Good God, I could do this every day of my life,
all day long.'

"To hear something all of a sudden in its big fat glory coming at
you through the headphones-it takes on an energy and a life all of
its own. It's overwhelming. It was a good day," she smiles.

Susan says Crooked Little Heart is an accurate reflection of her
personality and her music, as well as the transformation she's
undergone in the process. "I've cut the apron strings from what I
thought I was supposed to be," she states with pride. "This record
truly honors who I really am. And I'm comfortable with that. I'm
perfectly happy with being perfectly flawed."


http://www.susanhaynes.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

when things start happening for you like they have for Abigail
Washburn
http://abigailwashburn.com/

NPR might do a story or two about you
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5049815

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4840756


Ascap might do an audio portrait about you
http://www.ascap.com/audioportraits/abigail_washburn.html


you might have you booking done by a booking agency like
Monterey Peninsula Artists, who have an impressive roster of the
following clients
Abigail Washburn, Jason Michael Carroll, Ricky Skaggs, Aubrey
Collins, Jerome McComb, Robert Earl Keen, Blaine Larsen, John
Pierce, Rodney Atkins, Brenda Lee, Junior Brown, Sawyer Brown,
Charlie Robison, Kasey Chambers, Scotty Emerick, The Del McCoury
Band, The Kentucky Headhunters, Shooter Jennings, Doyle Lawson &
Quicksilver, Lane Turner, The Skeeters, The Drew Davis Band, Mac
McAnally, Steve Holy, Ennis Sisters, Marty Stuart, Toby Keith, G.B.
Leighton, Montgomery Gentry, Tommy Emmanuel, George Canyon, Mountain
Heart, Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, Grand Funk Railroad, Night
Ranger, The Tractors, Hilljack, Old Crow Medicine Show, Travis
Tritt, Hootie & The Blowfish, Paul Thorn, Uncle Kracker, Jack
Ingram, Reckless Kelly, VilleBillies

Monterey Peninsula Artists
    124 12th Ave South
    Nashville, TN 37203
www.mpanashville.com

you might have a cool label like

Nettwerk
    1650 W. 2nd Avenue
    Vancouver, BC V6J 4R3


    Web: nettwerk.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NBC.com To Launch Music Competition Show
by David Goetzl, Friday, Feb 3, 2006 6:00 AM EST
NBC THIS SUMMER WILL LAUNCH a talent-search reality show that will
appear exclusively online.
The show, "StarTomorrow," seeks to tap into the popularity of
both "American Idol" and music on the Web. The program will feature
100 bands competing for a record deal over the course of 16 weeks.
In "Idol" fashion, record mogul Tommy Mottola and guest celebrity
judges will offer their opinions of the bands, but the public will
determine the finalists and winners via Internet voting.
For the first half of the competition, 20 bands a week will audition
in hopes of advancing to the finals. Then, the second half will
include a battle of the bands to determine a champion.
The series will be ad-supported, although no details were available.
Consumers will be able to view the series in non-linear fashion,
picking and choosing which auditions and head-to-head battles they
want to view--even opting to make their own judgments sans the
opinions of Mottola et al.
Word of "StarTomorrow"--NBC's first online-only series--comes only a
few days after NBC made unaired episodes of cancelled series "The
Book of Daniel" available for on-demand viewing on its Web site.
Mottola, a series executive producer, is the ex-chairman-CEO of Sony
Music Entertainment. The "StarTomorrow" winner will receive a
contract with a Mottola label that's part of Universal Music Group.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Fan Memo to Music Industry: Lower Prices

http://www.forbes.com/entrepreneurs/feeds/ap/2006/02/02/ap2494187.htm
l

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://blogcritics.org/archives/2006/02/02/135334.php

Famous Faces Gather to Promote Folk Music
February 02, 2006
Connie Phillips
Over two-thousand artists will gather on February 10 in Austin,
Texas, for the 18th North American Folk Music and Dance Alliance
convention. They will spend four days listening to and discovering
new talent as well as discussing how to effectively market folk
music around the world.
The conference, which studies the business world of traditional and
contemporary folk music and dance through showcases, films and
educational workshops, will feature many well-known names as keynote
speakers including Arlo Guthrie, Kinky Friedman and Peter Yarrow.
There will also be special concerts every evening; performers
include Judy Collins, Peter Yarrow, and Lowen & Navarro. The trade
show, which is sold out, has 115 booths of artists, publications,
recording companies and other aspects of the industry.
Over 200 artists will perform for promoters, booking agents, and
record label representatives. The attendees will also have the
chance to mingle with radio and print media, music publishers and
others in the music industry. During the conference, registrants
will attend panels that provide useful insight for achieving success
in the field of folk music and dance. A complete "Performance Alley"
showcase schedule is up on the web at folk.org.
This year there will be special focus on Texas, with the series of
events called "Texas Trails" which will highlight the blues,
conjunto, Texas swing, mariachi, and cowboy music. It will also
highlight Texas photographers, Austin music business professionals,
and Texas singer/songwriters groups.
On February 13, the first Folk Music Awards and Folk Alliance Music
Business Awards show will be held. It will be hosted by Ray Wylie
Hubbard and feature such names as Jonathan Edwards, Marshall
Crenshaw, Danny O'Keefe, Willis Alan Ramsey, and Susan Gibson.
Lifetime achievement awards will be presented to Tom Paxton, Clifton
Chenier, and Kenneth Goldstein.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant Unite for "Music and Lyrics By"

Two Romantic Comedy Favorites Team Up for "Music and Lyrics By"
Two audience favorites unite for the romantic comedy, "Music and
Lyrics By." Hugh Grant ("Love Actually") and Drew Barrymore ("Fever
Pitch") are set to take starring roles in the rom com from
writer/director Marc Lawrence.

Lawrence's story follows the romantic antics of a lyrics writer and
music writer (hence the film's title).

Drew Barrymore's Flower Hills production company partner Nancy
Juvonen will executive produce the film along with Village
Roadshow's Bruce Berman.

Filming is expected to begin in late March with Warner Bros hoping
to release the film during the 2006 holiday season.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"True music must reflect the thought and aspirations of the people
and time.
My people are Americans.
My time is today."
~ George Gershwin (1898 - 1937), composer

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Kerrville Folk Festival is Currently ACCEPTING NEW FOLK entries
http://kerrvillefolkfestival.com/newfolk.htm

Number of Entries Received as of 1/26/06: approx. 300

You may submit your New Folk entry in one of two ways.  You may
submit electronically using Sonicbids, or you may send your entry
directly to us at the Festival.  Its your choice.
http://www.sonicbids.com/kerrvillenewfolk06


The 2006 GRASSY HILL KERRVILLE NEW FOLK COMPETITION will be held
during the 35th Annual Kerrville Folk Festival on Saturday and
Sunday, May 27 & 28, 2006.  Out of 800 entries, thirty-two writer-
performers will be invited to share their original songs.  Six NEW
FOLK WINNERS will be selected from the thirty-two and will return on
Sunday, June 4 to perform 20 minutes of their original songs and
receive a $250 Award from the Texas Folk Music Foundation, plus $150
from Vic and Reba Heyman and $50 from the Jim Ross Memorial Fund.
They will also win a year's subscription or renewal to Performing
Songwriter Magazine.  Other prizes may be added at a later date.
All of these concerts will be staged at the Threadgill Theater in
the Quiet Valley Ranch campgrounds, 9 miles south of the city of
Kerrville on TX Hwy 16.

Established at the suggestion of Peter Yarrow in 1972, these annual
concerts are one of the high points of the Festival and for
songwriters from all across the country.  The Judges selecting the
six Award Winners for 2006 will be announced shortly.

Here are the official 2006 guidelines:

1.          All writer-performers are invited to send the Kerrville
Folk Festival two original songs only, on one rewound cassette
(without box) or one home-burned CD.  Pre-recorded songs must comply
with requirements set forth in Guideline 2.  If you send a cassette,
both songs should be on the same side.  LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER
SONGWRITER PLEASE.

2.          ONLY SONGS WRITTEN AFTER JANUARY 1, 2004 MAY BE
SUBMITTED.   It does not matter if the songs have been published
and/or recorded, provided they were written after Jan. 1, 2004.
They can be a "live", studio, or garage recordings.  The songs may
be performed by the writer alone or by a group which must include
the writer or writers.  Both songs together should not exceed
roughly 8 minutes in length.

3.          Do not send any lead sheets, lyrics, publicity, bios,
etc.  Your submission package should include ONLY your tape/CD, your
contact information, and your $20 entry fee (check or money order
please).  Please be sure to use sufficient padding to protect your
tape/CD in transit.

4.          If you are selected as a finalist, you will perform the
two songs you submitted at one of the May 27 or May 28 concerts.

5.          The writer(s) retain all rights to the songs.

6.          New Folk Finalists may not appear with a billed
performer on any Kerrville stage during the 2006 Festival prior to
the announcement of the winners on Sunday, May 28.  Doing so will
result in disqualification.

7.          Anyone may enter except those billed as stage performers
in 2006 or those who have been selected as a New Folk Finalist for
both of the past two consecutive years, 2004 & 2005.

8.          Of the 32 finalists, 16 will perform at the festival
each day, Saturday and Sunday, May 27 & 28 to provide the judges
with an opportunity to select the six Award Winners who will perform
at the New Folk Winners Concert on Sun, June 4.  PLEASE DO NOT ENTER
IF YOU CANNOT FULFILL ALL THREE CONCERT OPPORTUNITIES!

9.          The CD/cassette label should be left blank!  As this is
a "blind" listening, no information should be on the disc or tape
itself.  On an accompanying, letter size sheet of paper put the
songwriter's name, address, phone number, and e-mail address so you
can be notified.  Also put the titles of the songs you submitted.
Please print or type clearly!

10.      All entries must be accompanied by a $20 entry fee.  Checks
should be payable to the Texas Folk Music Foundation.  If sending by
U.S. Mail, send to
New Folk,
P.O.Box 291466 ,
Kerrville , TX   78029 .

If using another shipping service (UPS, FedEx, etc.), send to
New Folk,
3876 Medina Hwy. ,
Kerrville , TX   78028

Submission Deadline:
Only the first 800 entries received between December 1, 2005 and
midnight, MARCH 15, 2006, will be accepted.  Entries received after
the deadline (or after we get 800) will be refused at the post
office and will be returned to you unopened.

Throughout the entry period, we will post the number of entries we
have received to date on our website at
www.kerrvillefolkfestival.com/newfolk.htm.

11.      If you choose to have your tape/CD returned to you, they
will be mailed on or about April 15th with the list of finalists.
Note:  If you want your tape/CD to be returned to you, provide us
with a self addressed mailer (Size "0", padded) with proper postage.
Otherwise your tape/CD will be disposed of and you will be notified
by e-mail of the finalists.

12.      In addition to the 32 finalists, up to 10 regional writers
may be selected to perform one of their songs at the Ballad Tree (3-
5 p.m.) May 27 or 28.  Those selected for the Ballad Tree will
receive one, single-day pass to the Festival for that day only.

13.      Scholarships for $80 of the $165 tuition to the May 30 -
June 1 Songwriters School or Roots/Blues Guitar Workshop are
available for as many as ten of the 32 finalists and are awarded on
a first �come basis to those paying the balance of $85 to the Texas
Folk Music Foundation prior to May 24, 2006.

14.      The 32 Finalists will receive five-day passes for you and
one guest for May 25 - 29; those accepting scholarships to the
songwriter's school will receive additional passes for May 30 � June
1; the six Award Winners will receive passes through June 4; those
selected for the Ballad Tree will receive a single one-day pass.
Others performers participating with you, if any, must purchase a
ticket to be admitted with you.  All cars in the campground pay $20
per day, but free parking is provided in the parking meadow.

15.      Any rules that are misprinted or printed incomplete in
other publications are not official and we take no responsibility
for any disqualification resulting from not following the complete
instructions listed above.

Folk Festival dates are May 25 - June 11, 2006 (18 days).  If you
have questions, contact us at (830) 257-3600 or email info@kerrville-
music.com.  You will be notified via E-MAIL of the finalists on or
around April 15th.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Winning song isn't making many airwaves

Here's some text from the article

Just because, in other words, a song wins an industry award doesn't
necessarily mean it's going to land on the radio. Nor does it mean
the song has even been on the radio

radio doesn't necessarily have enough time to sniff out new songs

http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/living/13746496.htm

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

With her unique sound, she sings to an untouched market of listeners
craving honest, heartfelt and emotionally powerful songs.

http://www.myspace.com/jennifermusic

www.sonicbids.com/JenniferAppelquist2

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

bwsongs@... writes:

I'm looking for one more TOP-NOTCH (only) Contemporary Christian/
inspirational songs (UPBEAT or at least mid-tempo) for my upcoming
album with Lamon Records (www.lamonrecords.com). President, Producer
& Singer/Songwriter, Dave Moody (of the Moody Blues) will be
producing. Lamon's roster has garnered Grammy-nominated and Dove
Award-winning albums and singles since 1962, including just last
year. Recording begins in February-- URGENT!  I have plenty of my
own songs, but I want to include a couple by other reputable (or at
least EXCEPTIONAL) writers.

Stylistically, think of Jaci Velasquez, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark
Shultz, Avalon, Natalie Grant, Susan Ashton, Karen Wheaton (but not
southern gospel), edgy Twila Paris (don't need ballads), Joy
Williams, or Jennifer Knapp.  Does "Linda Ronstadt-meets-Jesus" say
anything to you??  If you're not familiar with several of these, it
might be difficult to shoot in the right direction. SO-- please
reply with LYRICS only first, please. If the lyrics fit what I'm
envisioning, I'll ask you for the mp3.

I will consider published or unpublished songs, but they MUST be
copyrighted before you submit anything at all. Send your BEST song
that fits the description to:  bwsongs@...

P.S: Just for ideas, my song "No Denying", on the IH Radio Charts,
will possibly be the title cut. I will also include "Momma Would Be
Proud", a ballad, both of which you may hear at
www.indieheaven.com/artists/becky_wright . Also listen
to "Deliverance Has Come" at
http://www.gospelmusic.org/eprofile/view-detailartist.aspx?iid=8407

ALSO looking for a GREAT co-writer, good with urban gospel (Kirk
Franklin-type) to finish a song (I have the chorus, & one verse, and
music for chorus) to possibly be on the album.

Bio:
      Becky Wright, Award-winning Singer/Songwriter, Recording
Artist, and Publisher (ASCAP), has a current successful single at
Christian radio now, the adoption song called "Child of My Heart".
Climbing to #2 so far [Jan. 2, 2006, Christian Music Weekly Chart,
Christian country genre], this powerful song has spent 10 weeks on
the chart since its debut in Nov. 2005. With two previous indie
projects, a current widely-acclaimed single, and new recording &
distribution agreement with Lamon, Oklahoma is proud once again to
produce the kind of passion and talent that Wright brings.
       Becky Wright has also been nominated for the Franklin, TN
based Indie Heaven Momentum Awards in Five categories: Female
Vocalist, Contemporary Artist, Worship Artist, Song of the Year
(Child of My Heart) and Album of the Year (Stand in the Gap). FANS
MAY VOTE by January 31st (for the semi-finals) at
http://www.indieheaven.com/go.idh?section=mawards . Awards will be
presented March 24th in Franklin at the Annual CIA (Christian
Independent Artists) Summit.  For more info, go to www.ciasummit.com
      See & hear more at www.beckywrightsongs.com .

Becky Wright
www.beckywrightsongs.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

have you ever seen the

handbook of rhetorical devices
you might find some helpful tools

http://www.virtualsalt.com/rhetoric.htm

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

WARNING - MySpace Music accounts are for MUSICIANS.
If you upload songs you do not own, the account will be deleted.
You can not make a "fan" site for a band.
That violates their copyrights and is against the law.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

2nd Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise

Last year's event was awesome... This year's will be even better!

Announcing the 2nd Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise! Its an event put
on by
songwriters for songwriters. The cruise will depart for 5 days from
Galveston Texas on the Carnival Cruise Ship "Ecstasy". Participants
will
get the opportunity to meet and pitch their songs to top music
industry
pro's including:

Brian Rawlings, A&R Representative, Disney Music, Los Angeles

Norman DeVasure, Owner-Sunset Music/Norman Productions, Nashville

Ted Lowe, President-ChoiceTracks, Inc., Los Angeles.

Carie Long, A & R Representative, Sony/BMG, Nashville

Perry Howard, Songwriter/Publisher Relations BMI, Nashville

Mike Geiger, Hit songwriter, Nashville, penned Neill McCoy's "City
Put The
Country Back In Me" and George Strait's "Adalida", and many more.

Shannan Neese, Writer/Publisher Relations, SESAC, Nashville

Brice Long, Songwriter/Artist, RCA Nashville

And More....

Jason Blume will return for our 2nd Annual Event as well. With
credits for
writing songs that have been on albums with more than 50 million
sales and
the author of best-selling songwriting books, Jason will headline our
teaching faculty.

for more info Go to
www.txsongwriterscruise.com

Sign up for the cruise/conference now for $25 per person. This
reserves
your room and locks in your price. Limited time only!!!!

Want to win a free cruise for 2? Go to our website and check out the
Texas
Songwriters Cruise Songwriting Contest.

Aspiring songwriters from throughout the US and Canada have already
signed
up. If you're serious about your songwriting, you can't afford to
miss this
event.

Hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Lealean Peace
founder/coordinator
Texas Songwriters Cruise

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

a note from Megan Conner

Hey Ande!!  It's Megan.  Feel free to contact me if you need
anything demoed.  I'm looking for some demo work!  :)  917-664-2446
or trichicmeg@...  Have a great day, Megan
www.myspace.com/megconner

http://www.myspace.com/megconner

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

South By Southwest returns to Austin, TX March 15-19. This one of
kind conference/trade show/music festival will feature artists from
Henry Rollins to Judy Collins to Kris Kristofferson to Billy Bragg
along with 3 days of panels, live music and much more.

Recording Academy members can register for SXSW for $475, a savings
of $50 off the current rate. This Recording Academy offer is only
valid until February 10!  Follow this link to register:
https://secure.sxsw.com/ec/?product=reg-music06-naras

The Recording Academy will host the Texas Chapter Membership
Celebration and a panel while at SXSW.  Details on those events will
be announced soon.

If you do not have an account already set up with SXSW, you will
need to create one prior to registering.  For a detailed list of the
panels live music events and to create an account to register, log
on to SXSW.com.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's an interesting thread on JPF
http://www.justplainfolks.org/ubb/Forum4/HTML/001808.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A few seats are available for
Pat Pattison�s two-day WORKSHOP in AUSTIN
Saturday, January 28th and Sunday the 29th on:

Verse Development: Solve "Second Verse Hell" quickly and easily by
learning to what to look for in a title and how to develop the flow
of ideas BEFORE you waste time writing a lyric that dead-ends is
some dark alley. Learn how to advance your ideas so the song gains
rather than loses interest as it moves forward. Find out how to
create a chorus or refrain that can be repeated effectively without
having to change the words each time. This seminar will save you
time and channel your energies efficiently, allowing you to write
more songs and better songs. Pat will also critique songs, as time
allows.

"I took a class with Pat Pattison, a really great teacher. .. I
learned a lot of stuff in that class, and I still read Writing
Better Lyrics. I've got it on the tank of my toilet, . I think it's
great." --Grammy winning artist/songwriter John Mayer, Sept. 19th
2004 --

Pat Pattison is a Professor at Berklee College of Music, where he
teaches Lyric Writing and Poetry. In addition to his three books,
Writing Better Lyrics, The Essential Guide to Lyric Form and
Structure, and The Essential Guide to Rhyming, Pat has developed
three online lyric writing courses for Berklee's online school,
available through www.patpattison.com. He has written over 30
articles for Home & Studio Recording Magazine, and The Performing
Songwriter. Pat continues to present songwriting clinics across the
US, Canada, and the UK. Several of his students have won Grammys,
including John Mayer and Gillian Welch.
Cost? $100 per person for the two-day workshop. Berklee College
students and alumni pay $75. Please make checks payable to Pat
Pattison. You can make them out to me, but I�ll just use it for the
Tahiti Special Vacation Account instead...

Meals/Accommodations: On your own. We may order in for lunch -
depending on the group�s preference. We�re planning on a "field
trip" Saturday night, depending on the quantity of homework!

Location: St. Edward�s University - an excellent location in an
excellent room! Details will be sent to participants this weekend
.
Time: 10 am - 5 pm both days.

Class size: Limited to the first 25 who send a check payable to "Pat
Pattison". No extra points if the check is made payable to Joe.

Mail checks to:
Pat Pattison Workshop,
c/o Joe Strouse,
P.O. Box 80444, Austin,
Texas 78708-0444

Questions? Contact Joe Strouse @
strousongs@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's a couple extremely cool tips:


You might want to enter your name and favorite topics
in google alerts to see where they are popping up on the web
http://www.google.com/alerts/create?hl=en


WANT TO GET BOOKED AT THE ACL FEST?
this link might help you or your friends
who want to get booked at ACL fest but might be having trouble
maybe you could ask your fans for some support

http://www.austincitylimits.com/festival/booking.asp

If you drop by please request they book
JOHN ARTHUR MARTINEZ
ABI TAPIA
Autumn Bouakadakis
http://jbandsandy.com/sites/31/index.cfm?page=192

email me if you'd like to be on this list
I'll check you out and consider it

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Friends,

I hope you're doing wonderful.  I keep coming across loads of great
information.  I hope you enjoy it

Many thanks to those who congratulated me on the Success "Hand Over
Your Heart" is having.

One person wrote:
"This is really quite thrilling Ande especially after I read a post
recently that said our chances are pretty much nil! You're the first
radio success that I've read on here-thanks so much for sharing and
I'll be checking out your tune and newsletters for your secret to
success! Happy New Year! Linda A.  cool"

Here was my response to her that shared someof the background of how
it happened.


I don't think there's a secret to success, just a lot of little
things that came together

1) I discovered and was wowed by the artist when she applied for and
received an ASG scholarship to an old number 9 workshop

2) Later I asked the artist if she'd consider cowriting with me.
She said yes

3) Then I sent her a list of ideas to browse

4) She selected hand over your heart and we wrote it

5) Months later she decided to record it and include it on her CD,
we actually did a little final touch rewriting while she was in the
studio. Her producer suggested the song would be better if we left
the story unresolved in the bridge

6) the CD came out

7) Abi hired a promotion person

8) they decided "Hand over your heart" should be the single to focus
on for their campaign

9) the promotion person went to work and a few stations picked up
the single and started spinning it. I think part of the plan was to
focus on stations who are receptive to indie music.

I'll ask Abi if she'd like to add anything to how it happened.
But that's my understanding of it.

Some artists blow their whole budget on producing their CD's,
once the CD is done
they've got to promote the CD and singles to make things happen.

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Are you on MYSPACE YET
you'll find me at
http://www.myspace.com/anders
Send me a friend INVITE
Put me in your top 8
Set up a site
put up a few songs and your gig calendar.
find friends and fans

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I recently discovered MUSICTHOUGHTS

MUSICTHOUGHTS is a popular, open place for musicians to talk to
other musicians.

Ask any questions about music, business, touring, advice, resources.
Someone on the list has always got the answers!

And *please* give some thoughts back to the list.

Derek Sivers from CDbaby is the creator of it and an active
participant there

http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/musicthoughts/

Subscribe: musicthoughts-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Related Link: http://www.musicthoughts.com/
MusicThoughts - a place to think about music. Website by Derek
Sivers.

http://www.musicthoughts.com/list/cat

quotes on writing lyrics
http://www.musicthoughts.com/list/cat/2

I'm going to explore the MUSICTHOUGHTS message archive I bet it's
filled with lots of great info

Derek recommended MUSICTHOUGHTS at:
http://cdbaby.org/contrib.php
where he wrote

PLEASE READ THIS FIRST TO SAVE YOURSELF DISAPPOINTMENT:
1. THIS IS NOT A DISCUSSION BOARD where lots of people hang out
and discuss things. It's meant mostly as an ANNOUNCEMENT/NEWS source
for CD Baby members to catch up on what's going on.
2. IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION for musicians, you should join the
MusicThoughts email list, and ask your question there. If you have a
question for CD Baby, email cdbaby@....
3. Please only post worthy valid discussable news or ideas, of
interest to your fellow musicians around the world. No gig
announcements. No "our new CD is great!" No classified ads. Only
exceptions are success stories that musicians could learn from, or
BIG opportunities that you have for musicians. If it doesn't fit
this criteria, we'll delete it.
4. Maybe adding a LINK is what you really came here to do? Try
the LINKS button up above.
5. CD Baby has to approve (and sometimes not-approve) your
story before it hits the website. Approving a story can take up to
two weeks when we're busy, because we do it in our "spare time".

~ ~ ~

Here's one recent MUSICTHOUGHT post by Derek Sivers

What is your knowledge/opinion of this situation?
I put it ALL here:
http://cdbaby.net/dd/?f=8

Some/most(?) downloads/streams/sales pay only a couple tenths of a
penny.

Are all of these subject to the 9 cent compulsory?
No.

How does our accounting page at CDBaby.net differentiate between
them?
Right now, only by price.
Streams are under 5 cents each. Anything over is a sale.

P.S. I hope someone noticed we negotiated MusicNet up 1000% :
what was paying 0.2 cents is now paying 2 cents.

--
Derek Sivers, CD Baby, Hostbaby
http://www.cdbaby.com <-- best new independent music
http://www.hostbaby.com <-- web hosting for musicians

~ ~~ ~ ~~ ~
~ ~~ ~ ~~ ~

From musicthoughts@yahoogroups.com

Bobby Borg wrote:

Has any of you Indie Artists benefited (got music placed, signed,
got press, gigs, or whatever) from attending events offered by
songwriting organizations, or the conventions of any other
organizations?

I'd like to hear your story. Please be specific.

email me at bborg@...

Happy new year,

BB
-------------------
Bobby Borg, Author
The Musician's Handbook:
A Practical Guide to Understanding the Music Business
Billboard Books
http://www.bobbyborg.com

~ ~ ~

HERE is my response to his question:

Hi Bobby,

Great to hear from you
I'll bite on your question

I was involved with Austin Songwriters Group
from 1998 - 2004
I was first a member then served on the board from Nov 2001 - Aug
2004
Served as president in 2003

Through Austin Songwriters Group the following happened

1) I met many cowriters, like Donna Aylor, Jil Wilkin, Lealean
Peace, John Arthur Martinez, Steve Callif, Tommy Byrd, Abi Tapia,
Wake Eastman, John Gilliam, Leanne Kinney, Halie Loren, and Adam
Donmoyer

2) I met many successful songwriters, songwriting mentors, teachers,
and industry pros like
Steve Seskin, Allen Shamblin, Sandy Knox, Monte Warden, Gary Powell,
Helen Darling, Aaron Barker, the list goes on and on

3) received recognition prizes contacts and confidence from
entering, finaling, and placing in ASG's songwriting contests  I
wrote about much of it at
www.AndeRasmussen.com

4) I got several cuts because of contacts I made through ASG like

john Arthur martinez
"Here's to Boys,"
"Home Made of Stone,"
"Lone Starry night," and
"Married to Your Memory"

Abi Tapia "Hand Over Your Heart"

I got several cuts from other songs I wrote with ASG members

5) being involved with ASG put me in a position to share information
with other songwriter, I created ASG's email list, shared a lot of
information through it and tried to help other writers when ever
they asked me questions. So my guess is many other writers had
success because of info and opps through ASG

6) I've also gotten a few gigs for various artists
I've referred john Arthur martinez to 2 private party gigs
And helped looby to get him a gig at the San Marcos River Pub


I also went to NSAI's song camp 101 in March 1999
I met several cowriters
Billy White, Ronda Businda, and several others
Billy is a producer and a few artists he's worked with cut songs

I met Steve Seskin then I later introduced him to john Arthur
martinez, Steve john and I wound up cowriting a song called home
made of stone that john arthur performed on the first Nashville star
show

I'm sure there's a lot of other cool things that happened

I've written about most of it in the message archive at
www.SongWriterBlog.com


My advice to folks is to:

Join your local group
Get active
Meet people but don't come on too strong
Make friends
build relationships
seize opportunities
find a few cowriters
At some point ask people if you could run a few ideas past them to
consider for cowriting.
Be patient
Keep showing up
Follow up

Thanks for Asking,

Ande Rasmussen


Years ago, in the early 90's I know that Tom Douglas met Paul Worley
at an ASG Songwriting Conference, Tom went on to have hits with
Colin Raye and many other artists.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Original John Lennon lyrics for Beatles song on sale
http://www.enjoyfrance.com/content/view/205/31/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

the Maynard Triplets on Myspace posted the following

any songwriters out there?

I need help writing a real short song about being perfect /
supermodel that is fun and upbeat...
I will explain more just let me know if you can help!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hey there Friends!

I am very excited to announce the release of my new album, FREE! You
can check out sound clips on myspace, AND, TWO NEW MUSIC VIDEOS on
my website: www.marysueenglund.net, directer and created by
film/designer/photographer GURU Glenn Sweitzer from Fresh Films +
Design.

I am grateful for the help of awesome producer Kim McLean, amazing
cowriters Kim McLean, Lisa Brokop, Pam Tillis and Mary Francis. Pam
Tillis even sang on my record, so Pam fans, check it out!

This album is available at
http://www.cdbaby.com/msenglund1/from/ande

We will be sending out an announcement soon of the album release,
but I wanted to let all of my friends know first! I hope that you
enjoy the music!

Best, Mary Sue Englund

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: NSAI newsletter; 1/29 - workshop
from: StonePulse@...

If that opening line doesn�t make you want to listen to the rest,
then it doesn�t matter what I do after that.
Jill Colucci
("No One Else On Earth," "I�m Gonna Be Somebody")


OUR NEXT SONGWRITING WORKSHOP
Sunday, January 29, 2006

2:00 - 5:30 PM
at
520 Eighth Avenue (36th/37th Sts.), Room 16A

Demos...continued...

In October, we had a workshop on demos.  The information we had
prepared to present turned out to be far more extensive than what we
had time for.  Because demo'ing is such an important topic, we�ve
decided to continue where  we left off.  Here is the list of topics
from the October workshop-we will be covering some more of these
topics this month.

�         How to know when your song is ready to demo

�         Where to get it demo�d

�         Full demo vs. guitar or piano/vocal

�         Nashville vs. New York-what�s the difference?

�         Mail-ins-do they work?

�         How to control the demo�ing process

�        Demos that work/demos that don�t-we�ll listen�

�         Demos to records-what changes?

�         Bring in a song for a demo critique (not a song critique!)-
we�ll choose one or two at random as time permits for the group to
assess-don�t worry, we�ll still have regular song critiques (see
below)!

AGENDA
2:00 - 2:30 PM        Network with fellow songwriters
2:30 - 3:30 PM        Demo discussion (see above)
3:30 - 5:30 PM        Song critiques


Special thanks to Mickey Mantle�s (www.mickeymantles.com - 42
Central Park South) for graciously providing us with space for our
holiday party!  Congratulations to those of you who braved the
transit strike and showed up!  It was a very special evening of
musical sharing!


UPCOMING EVENTS

LONG ISLAND NSAI WORKSHOP

The next Long Island NSAI workshop will be on Tuesday, January 31st,
7- 9:30 PM, Room 216, Five Towns College.  (Directions to Five Towns
College from NYC:  LIE to Exit 50 (Bagatelle Rd.); cross to
westbound side of highway; go north on Bagatelle Rd. to the end
where there will be a traffic light; turn right on Half Hollow Rd.
at the light and continue � mile to Burr�s Lane; turn right onto
Burr�s and proceed to college entrance; follow NSAI signs on the
front doors to Room 216.)


JASON BLUME SONGWRITING WORKSHOP

The Princeton Songwriters chapter of NSAI will present an all-day
songwriting workshop with hit songwriter/publisher/ best-selling
author, Jason Blume.  Topics will include:  using effective song
structures; how to find great ideas and titles; composing memorable
melodies (even if you don�t play an instrument); producing
successful demos; how & why to get a publisher; how to pitch your
songs; learning where the money comes from; and more!

WHEN: March 25th, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (check-in beginning at 8:15 AM)

WHERE::  The First Reformed Church, 9 Bayard St., New Brunswick, New
Jersey


COST:      $40 for early registration (prior to February 15, 2006)
and $50 thereafter.  To register, please make your check payable
to "NSAI Princeton" and mail to:  Arlon Bennett, PO Box 84,
Princeton, NJ 08542.


CRITIQUES:  Jason will be doing a limited number of critiques based
on the order in which checks are received, so sign up early and
bring a recording of your song and a typed lyric sheet with you.


PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS:    On the Sunday following the workshop,
there will be a limited number of private consultations available at
an additional fee.  For information or to schedule a private
consultation with Jason Blume, e-mail
jbsongdoc1@....

With songs on albums that have sold more than 50 million copies,
Jason Blume is one of only a few writers to ever have had singles on
Billboard�s Pop, R&B, and Country charts all at the same time.  His
songs have been recorded  by Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys
and many other artists including the Oak Ridge Boys, Collin Raye (5
cuts), John Berry (top 5 "Change My Mind") and Steve Azar.  He is
also the author of 6 Steps to Songwriting Success:  The
Comprehensive Guide to Writing and Marketing Hit Songs (Billboard
Books) and Inside Songwriting:  Getting to the Heart of Creativity
(Billboard Books).

---------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------

MEMBER NEWS

WARREN BOUTROS won the grand prize in the International Christmas
Song Contest with his "A Christmas to Remember."  As of today, you
can still listen to it at http://cdbaby.com/cd/hct.   You can listen
to more of Warren's music at www.hitstreetproductions.com.


Long Island member, MARY LAMONT, and her band (www.marylamont.com)
will be doing the following performances in January:  Saturday, the
21st, 6 - 8 PM, Quad H Dining Hall at SUNY Stony Brook (free);
Sunday, the 22nd, 2 PM, Islip Winter Concert Series at Islip
Library, 71 Monell Avenue, Islip (631/581-5933 - free); Sunday, the
29th, 2 PM, North Shore Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham (631/929-
4488 - free).  On March 31st at 9 PM, the Mary Lamont Band will be
the featured performers at the IMAC Theatre, 370 New York Avenue,
Huntington.  NSAI members get a 25% discount off tickets, which are
available at the IMAC box office or on-line at www.imactheater.org.
This event will be hosted by John Platt of WFUV-FM (90.7).

Long Island member, RICH O'BRIEN, has added a guitar lessons page to
his website:  www.robrien.net/lessons/index.htm.  You can also check
out his new CD, I'm Movin' On, at www.cdbaby.com/richobrien.

AMY SPEACE, with her band, the Tearjerks, will be performing locally
as follows:  Thursday, January 19th, 8:30 PM, Goldhawk Lounge (936
Park Ave., Hoboken); Saturday, January 21st, 10 PM, Rockwood Music
Hall (196 Allen St.); and Wednesday, January 25th, 10 PM, the Rodeo
Bar (375 Third Ave.).  In February, she will be touring with Judy
Collins both here and in the UK.  www.amyspeace.com

LARI WHITE ("Stepping Stone," "Lead Me Not") will be acting in Ring
of Fire, the musical tribute to Johnny Cash scheduled to open at the
Ethel Barrymore Theater on March 12th.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
FYI

www.tunesmith.net now has an NSAI News and Updates forum.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------

---------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL
www.nashvillesongwriters.com

NSAI, NYC

You volunteer co-ordinators:
Randi    nashrand@...
Mary Beth    stonepulse@...

Your Adopt-a-Shop Pro:  Tim    tbuppert@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A note from the Austin Cactus CAFE

And now to the shows in 2006

Thu.  Jan. 19
cd release
ERIC TAYLOR
$10.00  * 8:30pm (2 for 1 admission if you print this out!)

Fri. Jan. 20
LIBBY KIRKPATRICK
&
MICAHEL SHAY
$8.00 * 8:30pm

Sat. Jan. 21
love is why * Cd release
SHAKE RUSSEL BAND
w/ Michael Hearne
$10.00 * 9pm (two for one admission if you print this out!)

Mondays Jan 23, 30, Feb 6 , 13, 20, 27
OPEN STAGE * 7:30pm sign up

Tue. Jan. 24
songwriter super heroes
TONY SCALZO (fastball)
BILLY HARVEY
JOHNNY GOUDIE
$7.00 * 8:30pm

Wed. Jan. 25
cello guitar rock from los angeles
THE KEN OAK BAND
free Show * 8:30pm

Thu. Jan. 26
live @ the cactus
DUNCAN SHEIK
Two shows: 7:30pm & 10pm
7:30pm w/ special guest: Jim Boggia * 10:00pm w/ special guest:
Griffin House
$17.00 advance * 18.00 door
Tix on sale @ Heb's  the Erwin Center Box office (no service charge
@ Erwin)
512-477-6060 to charge or texasboxoffice.com

Fri. Jan. 27
austin debut
BRANDI CARLILE
special guest * RexMoroux
$10.00 * 9pm

Sat. Jan 28
Nickle Creek's
CHRIS THILE
& MIKE MARSHALL
$21.00 adv * *$24.00 door

Coming Wed. & Thu. Feb. 8 & 9
Guitar God
TOMMY EMMANUEL
Wed @ 8:30pm
Thu. Two shows @ 7pm & 9:30pm
$24.00 advance * $25.00 door ix on sale @ Heb's  the Erwin Center
Box office (no service charge @ Erwin)
512-477-6060 to charge or texasboxoffice.com


Just around the Cactus Corner

1/31 * Graham Webber * CD release
2/01 * The Gourds * CD release
2/02 * Adrian Legg
2/04 * L'il Capn' Travis & The Ethan Azarian Experience
2/07 * Liam O'Maonlai' (FROM HOTHOUSE FLOWERS!)
2/10 * Mary Gauthier
2/11 * Danny O'Keefe, Darrell Scott, Jane Siberry & more...
2/14 * Alejandro Escovedo Quintet & Butch Hancock
2/15 * Chris Chandler & David Rouse
2/16 * Plum Tucker * Cd release
2/17 * Ed Miller
2/18 * Eliza Gilkyson
2/21 * Robinella
2/23 * Hapa
2/25 * Terri hendrix
3/04 * Jimmy Lafave
3/07 * Annual Townes Van Zandt Birthday salute
3/11 * Peter Rowan
3/29 * Battlefield Band
3/31 * Cheryl Wheeler
4/08 * Joe Ely
4/14 * Tom Russell
4/15 * Ruthie Foster
4/26 * Catie Cutis

Whew, and keep checking the Cactus Web for updates:
http://www.utexas.edu/student/txunion/ae/cactus/
Plus The Austin Chronicle & Xlent....

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Welcome to MyTexasMusic.com's Music Magazine
----------------The MTM Armadillo ------------------------

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Vol. 5, No. 3                     Jan. 18, 2006
---------------------------------------------------------------------
MTM Headquarters & Showroom located at:
129 W. Houston in
LINDEN, TEXAS: The geographical center of North America...
the musical center of Texas.
1-866-49-TEXAS
*****************************************************
This issue is proudly sponsored by
ROCKPHILES.COM
"It's All About The Music!"
A website dedicated to the music that has shaped so many
generations - bios of everyone from The Allman Bros. to ZZ Top -
special prices on CDs and other merch - and one of the hottest
radio features we've ever seen! Check out our friends at....
www.rockphiles.com and buy a cool T-Shirt while you�re there!
Proudly worn by MTM.
*****************************************************
In This Issue:

* Nominations Ending
* Sponsor the TMAs
* Music City Texas Theater
* New MTM Members
* New CD Arrivals
*  Trivia Question
* Coming Soon...
* Chart Toppers
* Just Me Rambling
* Subscribe/Unsubscribe

---------------------------------------------
Nominations Ending
---------------------------------------------
The nomination process for the 2006 Texas Music Awards will end at
midnight, this Friday, January 20th.
The TMAs will be held on Saturday, March 25th at the Music City
Texas Theater in Linden, Texas.  There will be a LIMITED NUMBER OF
TICKETS to this event...
As subscribers to this ezine, you will be the first to know when
they have gone on sale, so stay tuned!

You can read the criteria for each award, see pics of past award
shows, and
nominate your favorite MTM members for the 2006 TMA�s at:
www.TexasMusicAwards.org
or
www.MyTexasMusic.com from the front page.
A list of final nominees will be announced on February 1st.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD - NOMINATE NOW!

-----------------------------
Sponsor the TMAs
------------------------------
As you know, the Texas Music Awards are 100% funded by sponsorship
dollars, and 100% staffed by volunteers. To be a TMA sponsor is huge
advertising bang for your buck. We have sponsorships ranging
from "Friend of MTM" to our Underwriting Sponsorship.
We have opened up the Award Sponsorship level to the public - you
can sponsor one of the award categories!  For more information,
email us at: mytexasmusic@... or go to www.TexasMusicAwards.org
and click on "Be A Sponsor"!
Advertising opportunities - $35 to $200
Sponsorship opportunities - $100 to $10,000

------------------------------------------------
Music City Texas Theater
-----------------------------------------------
This Saturday, January 21st, MTM member and 2005 TMA Producer of the
Year, JASON ALLEN and his band will be performing at the Music City
Texas Theater!  This is going to be one heck of a show, folks, and
there are still a few tickets left, so be sure to join us!
Jason always delivers a fantastic performance - you�ll see what all
the fuss is about when you come on out this weekend.  Grab you a hot
bowl of chicken and dumplings from the MCT concession and a cold
drink - and hunker down for a great show of superb country music as
only Jason can deliver.  Opening for Jason is Rodney Whatley, a
newly discovered talent from Northeast Texas - we heard them
rehearsing earlier tonight, and boy howdy are they good!  We�ll be
at the show - so come join us.
www.musiccitytexas.org

Coming to Music City Texas Theater:

On February 4th, Lucky Boyd will finally take the stage at MCT.  He
will be the special guest at the First Saturday Show.  A few solo
songs will be followed by Lucky on stage with Richard Bowden and
Moon and the Starz.  Should be interesting!  $10, general seating.
www.musiccitytexas.org for tickets.

On February 11th, MTM member Lu Mitchell will perform at Music City
Texas at a fundraiser for Community Services of Northeast Texas� TLC
Program.  The money will go to feed homebound elderly and disabled
persons. $15, general seating, for tickets, call 903-756-5596

---------------------------------------------------
New MTM Members
-------------------------------------------------
Please welcome the following artists who have recently joined
the MTM family!

Platinum Members

Southern Roots Band (Caldwell, Texas)
"...the music is pure Texas as guitars twang on Waylon-inspired
tunes...Jennings� voice is Country gold as he gets the job done in
fine fashion...(the band remains) true to the roots that brought
them to this point..."
Read the rest of our review and hear song clips at:
www.mytexasmusic.com/southernrootsband


To see all the latest CD additions to the website in one glance,
check out the cool slide show, at:
www.mytexasmusic.com/new

--------------------------------------------
New CD Arrivals & Free stuff
--------------------------------------------
New titles:

Smokey Wilson
"Country Music Boogieman" - $13.99
Originally released on vinyl in 1977, Smokey brings us this vintage
classic in good old CD format!  It�s a fantastic country collection -
  old school style!
Check out song clips at:
www.mytexasmusic.com/smokeywilson

How about a FREE KOOZIE!
Highspeed Hayride (nominated for Rising Star Award at the MTM Texas
Music Awards) are giving away free HH koozies while they last when
you buy their debut CD, "Lights of Town"! (This is one of our
favorite releases of 2005 - you can't go wrong!)
www.mytexasmusic.com/highspeedhayride


------------------------------------------------------
TRIVIA
-----------------------------------------------------
This ezine�s trivia challenge will get you a Mark Jungers & The
Whistling Mules
T-Shirt - if you�re the fastest finger....
Reply to this email with the correct answer to ONE of the following
questions:

1.    Who produced Mark�s last release (One For The Crow)?
2.    What is the year, make, and model of Mark�s tractor? (hint: it
graced the original cover of his debut CD, Black Limousine, before
re-issue.  ANOTHER hint: it�s mentioned in the 2005 MyTexasMusic
Tunes-N-Trivia calendar/cd (if ya didn�t buy it, you won�t have it)

We�ll take the correct answer to EITHER one of those questions!
If you are the winner, we will reply to your email, of course.
GOOD LUCK!

Right now, all three Mark Jungers titles are on sale - so stop by
his page and listen and support one of our favorite Texas talents.
www.mytexasmusic.com/markjungers

The winner of the last trivia challenge was:
Joline G. of Rosenberg, TX who provided the correct answer to the
John Evans question...
"He played for the New York-New Jersey Knights in the World League
of American Football."  Joline has won 2 John Evans Band CDs, a JEB
DVD, and a JEB poster.
Congrats, and thanks to all who played!

---------------------------------------------------
Coming Soon....
--------------------------------------------------
MyTexasOnlineMusic.com!!!
Ever wanted to buy just one song?
Ever wanted to share music (legally) with your friends and get paid
for it?
Get ready - the hottest new technology in downloadable music is
about to be unveiled...
Stay tuned for details!

Mark your calendars for July 7th - SHARKSTOCK is coming to the Piney
Woods of Texas!  Held annually by the NE Texas Parrotheads, MTM is
proud to be a new sponsor of this event!  This year�s line-up will
include MTM members Hanna�s Reef, Scotty Lee Shuffield, and Don
Burke (Toucan Brothers).  We�ll pass along more info as the date
gets closer.  As NE Texas PHC President Jackie Bryant says, "...it
will blow the pine cones off the trees here in the Piney Woods!"  To
be held in Bivins, Texas.

One of our favorite member-supporting venues, THE BUGLE BOY in La
Grange, Texas, is celebrating their one-year anniversary on January
28th, with a special show by MTM member Dana Cooper!  You won�t want
to miss the celebration - plus, any time to see Coop in action is a
celebration all in itself.
www.thebugleboy.com
"Retro Honky-Tonk Chic"
----------------------------------------
Chart Toppers
----------------------------------------

MTM members on the Texas Music Charts
(www.texasmusicchart.com)
# 30 Kevin Deal "I�ve Got To Believe"
As always, our thanks to Katie Key!

MTM Members on the Texas Top 40 Charts...
(the chart has not changed since our last report...)
# 9 - The Posse w/ Doug Supernaw "Long Gone"
#11 - Tom Tranchilla "Union Man"
#13 - David Brake "Lean Mean Texas Machine"
#17 - Dusty Deaton "Single Wide Female"
#23 - Sugar Bayou "Dancing Shoes"
#24 - Bill Isbell "Good Woman Waltz"
#25 - Wood Brothers "In My Chevy"
#31 - Allison Branan "Next Thing Smokin�"
#32 - Lost John Casner "New Texan Blues"
#34 - Jen Rathbun "Married Buried or Gay"
#37 - Hobson Smith "How We Do It In Texas"
(Close behind...Terry Michael Porter, New Jack Hippies, Papa Joe
Britt,
Mark Zeus, Tim Rogers, Dodd Lede, L�Amant, Sugar Bayou, John P.
Barton,
Hobson Smith, Janet Z!
Go vote for your favorites! www.texastop40.com
Thanks Gator for running this awesome website.

----------------------------------------------------
Just Me Rambling....
-----------------------------------------------------
When we moved up here to gorgeous Northeast Texas, we were just
thrilled with the wildlife and scenery.  I mean, not a night goes by
that we�re not driving home and spot a deer or two or ten!  But we
were also warned that the odds of us hitting a deer one day were
pretty stacked.  In favor of.  So we�re always extra cautious
driving home late at night - slow speed, high-beams, darting eyes,
full concentration on the road.
What they failed to warn us was that one day a deer might hit US.  I
was driving home alone and being extra careful when I turned on to
the farm road we live on.  Not a mile in, the biggest deer I�ve ever
laid eyes on ran into the SIDE of my car!  The SIDE of my car - if
my CAR would have hit the deer, it would have been the front,
right?  This sucker came charging out of the woods like it was being
chased by something, and ran right smack dab into the driver�s side
wheel well of my car.  I can still see it in slow-motion...the big
scared eyes, the black smudge under the nose - the HUGE antlers.  Of
course it scared the bejeezis out of me and I proceeded to freak out
the next two miles to the house.  They warn you NOT to get out of
your car if you hit a deer, because the deer, if only injured, could
really put a hurtin� on you.  So I made it home, barely, and checked
out the damage under the porch light.  Two huge dents on each side
of the wheel well, and the driver�s door will barely open or close
without much effort.  Long story short (or is it too late for
that?) - the deer was OKAY - because there was no trace of him when
we went back to look!  None.  So somewhere in the woods of Red Hill,
wanders a big buck with a hell of a headache I imagine.  My
sincerest apologies.  Oh, deer.


Until next time, smile a little bigger,
hug a little longer, don't forget to say "I LOVE YOU"
to those closest to your heart, and play Texas music
a LOT louder! Oh yeah, and buy stuff from us, will ya?
We need copy paper!

Buy Texas Music By Texas Artists...
We're PROOF that Texas has more than one star.

This ezine and our daily efforts are inspired by, and dedicated to
my father, John Gibson. May he always watch over us and spread the
Texas music word in the big blue beyond.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
-
�2006 Payline Productions
Jinelle Boyd, Editor

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy�
cordially invites you to its

48th Annual GRAMMY� Awards
Texas Viewing Party

February 8, 2006

6:00 PM Reception
7:00 PM Awards Telecast

The Granada Theater
3524 Greenville Avenue, Dallas

-Cocktail Attire-

Admission includes complimentary hors d�oeuvres, Heineken and an
official GRAMMY program book. Cash Bar

Admission is free for members and one guest

Additional guests and non-members are $25 per person or join The
Recording Academy at this event and receive complimentary admission

To join The Recording Academy go to www.grammy.com

This event will sell out early, so please RSVP no later than
Friday, February 3, 2006 to 512-328-8176
or e-mail texas@...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

what's IFS REader Pete Papageorge been up to

Thanks for asking 'what's new?' - not a whole lot to report about; I
had another song forwarded through TAXI, my 24th, but no deals yet.
I'm wondering whether to continue my subscription when it comes up
for renewal next month.

Also, a contact that I submitted to thru IFS, Paul Cummins,
contacted me saying that he was interested in one of my songs ("HIGH
MAINTENANCE, LOW TECH") and would be in touch.

I think I told you that I have a new website through Broadjam - it's
kinda cool.  Check out the "Rock Dawg" video - it's fun!

Best wishes,

Pete Papageorge
www.petepapageorge.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,

Ande

have you tried out songu yet?
drop by
www.SongU.com/ifs

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you well.

I had some wonderful news I wanted to share with y'all and I wanted
to welcome IFS new readers. I hope you enjoy IFS and benefit from
the info it contains.

if you want an easy way to remember how to find IFS
just drop by www.SongWriterBlog.com

if you click on MESSAGES
you can browse through the archives and
catch up on issues you might have missed.

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I AM SO PSYCHED!!! because a song that I cowrote with Abi Tapia
www.AbiTapia.com called "Hand Over Your Heart" is

the NUMBER ONE SONG on Texas Radio KBSO 94.7 FM in
Corpus Christi, Texas

http://www.texasradio947.com/topten.htm

you can hear "Hand Over Your Heart" at
http://cdbaby.com/cd/abitapia2/from/ande
It's the 9th track on her CD

Is that cool or what?

Ande Rasmussen
www.AndeRasmussen.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

join several artist street teams so you can see what other artists
and their management are doing with their street teams
drop by
www.fanscape.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

as an example of what artists ask their fans and street teams to do
here's a note from john Arthur martinez


It's that time of year again...the nomination process for the 2006
Texas Music Awards has begun!  Since jAm released "Live In New
England", he is eligible to be nominated in all categories!  Last
year, you might remember, "Home Made of Stone" received an award ...
so awesome!!  Please help us do it again this year by nominating him
for CD of year "Live In New England", performer of year, and any
other category you feel up to doing for us.  We will appreciate it
very much as always.  It only takes a few minutes, but the more
nominations he gets, the better his chances are.  If you have more
than one IP address you may vote more than once.  This is almost as
important as our work during Nashville Star, so please, please, help
us!  Instructions below, and on the website listed below.  You have
our Blessings,  Bette


1.  Go to: www.TexasMusicAwards.org to check out the qualifications
for each award - and decide which one or ones you want to nominate
him for.

2. Then, send an email to your mailing list, friends, and family,
and let them know what categories jAm is eligible for, and ask them
to nominate him for those categories beginning on Sunday, today, and
ending on Friday, January 20th.  Nomination suggestions from the
public will cease at Midnight on Friday, January 20th, 2006, so we
only have 5 days to do this.   Nomination suggestions can be made at
www.TexasMusicAwards.org

Nominees will be announced on February 1st, 2006.
After nominees are named for each category, public online voting
will begin on Monday, February 6th, and run through Friday, February
24th.

Complete rules, voting procedures, etc. can be found at:
www.TexasMusicAwards.org.

Mark this date on your calendar - Saturday, March 25th - Linden,
Texas.  If he is chosen as one of the five nominees in a category,
he may be asked to perform at the TMA Showcase held on that day, as
he was last year!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

If someone asked me to refer them to an outstanding Austin Producer
My friend Gary Powell would definitely be on that list.
www.GaryPowell.com
Gary's  created many recordings for for Disney's Childrens CDs.

Gary has a Blog, you can subscribe to it at:
http://www.garypowell.com/blogs/subscribe.php


Here's one of his entries that has loads of great information

Belmont University Student Seeks Career Advice for the Professional
Recording Session Singer

Mr. Powell, Thank you SO much again for agreeing to answer my
questions on such short notice. I am really excited to learn more
about professional studio singing. You can answer the following
questions to any extent that you see fit. I will appreciate any
wisdom that you feel to pass on to me. Thanks again!

Jameson Staley,
Commercial Vocal Major
(Performance and Composition/Arranging Emphases)
Survey of Music Business 1110/Dr. Larry E. Wacholtz, Instructor
Belmont University, Nashville, TN


1. In your opinion, what qualities (musical and personal) are
absolutely necessary for a professional studio singer?

Let's take the musical skills first. Most recording session work for
vocalists is performed within some pre-existing recorded musical
context. In the studio environment, the best "ear" is advantaged
over the best "voice". This means I favor singers who can match
tone, style, take both melodic and phrasing dictation and vocally
respond to many other sculpting tools I employ. The "ear" to "voice"
connection must be strong in order to succeed. My best singers are
capable of my loading them with a dozen or so performance nuances
or "commands" and then immediately sing them as requeste d� IN-TUNE!
Regarding personal qualities, learning one's own psychology is a
long road. Management gurus say we "hire for skills" and "fire for
aptitude" when it should be the other way around. I can teach a
singer the skills they need if they have the aptitude and
temperament to learn. Not every singer is up for this regardless of
their "great voice".


2. Do you prefer to employ vocalists who specialize in a particular
style of singing and hire them according to the project at hand or
to use versatile singers that are experienced in various genres and
styles?

Both! Singers who are musically adept across different genres will
get more calls for session work. I would add that the ability to
sing these differing styles within a vocal ensemble is even more
important.

In my Austin studio, I have an equal distribution of solo,
background vocal and choral work. All the singers I record have a
natural strength stylistically. But remember, a totally unique voice
may not be hired as often as a strong utilitarian instrument�..
regardless of their talent.


3. How many passes should it take for a good vocalist to lay down a
track?

Every vocal producer does this differently. I don't favor
the "multiple pass" and "comp" (compile) it later method. I will
sometimes use this method when recording an inconsistent singer or
helping a singer who is not feeling well.

Typically, in a solo vocal session, I will first play the song for
the vocalist which usually does not have a scratch (demo) vocal
take. I next make sure we are in agreement about what notes to sing,
discuss the interpretation and then leave them alone for about ten
minutes giving them the ability to review at their own pace. If I
have written the song, I'm more likely to play through it at the
piano before introducing the recorded tracks to the singer. In any
case, I have learned that it's important to remove any judgment from
the room while the singer is integrating the piece into their very
personal instrument. This is why I leave them to do this alone.
After we get levels, I expect to have a workable performance within
fifteen minutes or less. I am more likely to work and sculpt one
solid and complete performance into a great performance phase by
phrase. The relationship between performer and producer is complex,
but be sure that I will try at some point to help the singer feel
musically unshackled.


4. Are most studio singers trained in vocal technique (classically
or in contemporary styles) or are many just naturally talented
singers without formal training?
What are things you like/dislike about each?

Most singers who work in my studio have had some organized vocal
ensemble experience. I do hire singers who are trained classical
singers. Occasionally, in a small choral ensemble situation, I will
hire four "bel-canto" classical voices for size and four of my
best "ear" singers for their speed in integrating the ensemble
sound.
I love singers and will do everything to make their stay with me a
pleasant and productive one. In my perfect world, the classical
singers would have better ears and the "ear" singers would read
music.


5. What are the best experiences from which singers can gain
knowledge and maturity in order to become good studio vocalists?

A choral experience either in high school or later is very helpful,
IF they are not forced to produce a sound for which their voice
isn't suited. Choral directors are famous for wanting a bigger sound
than the student voices are ready for. This guarantees these singers
will be disabled from other forms of vocal expression. I could and
may write a book on this as it is a topic on which I feel strongly.
This is important! Many producers don't write or read music. As a
singer myself in other studios, I have never been handed a vocal
chart. Never.

However, I will always write a chart for the sessions at my studio
unless it's a three-part texture that I can do more quickly by ear
or by what we call a "head-chart". I will always know the exact
notes I want sung whether I write them or not. You, however, at
other studios will often be asked to "find" your own parts. This
excavating for a vocal arrangement can be an unnerving process if
not prepared. Know it WILL happen and if navigated successfully,
your skills will become an important asset to the producer who is
not comfortable with this part of the production.


6. Do you pay your vocalists more or less money per session based on
their ability or the difficulty of the job at hand, or do you pay
them all at the same rate?

Pay scale is determined largely by budget, difficulty, and session
duration (for "group sings"). Ensemble singers are always paid the
same within each session regardless of my existing relationship with
individuals. If I determine they are good enough to use in a
session, then I feel they deserve the same pay. That said, I really
prefer not to introduce a new singer into an ensemble situation
until knowing their voice very well.

Twenty years ago I hired a saxophone section to play a swing
arrangement I had written for "Jingle Bell Rock". There was one read-
through, one pass for phrasing and the third pass we were done. It
whole session took twenty minutes. At the time I think they were
paid the minimum of $75 each.

That night three female singers came in to record a three-part
texture of ONLY the bridge of the song. The parts were difficult and
they were young and inexperienced. I remember they made $180 each.
It was clear that being inadequate and slow paid more than
competence and experience. I never pay strictly by the clock
anymore. I budget what I think is a reasonable time for the session,
then pay a flat rate usually based per song. There are now bonuses
for beating the clock�. not stretching it. Fees are announced
preceding, during and after each session. Nobody, including me,
should be left in the dark about compensation.


7. How does a studio singer begin a career?
What steps need to be taken to find work?

First of all, if a singer expects to do this as their sole source of
income then move to a city where this is possible��probably Chicago,
L.A., New York or Nashville. Locate the jingle houses first. Nothing
pays singers as well as jingle production other than stardom which
is different topic altogether.
Show up! Listen. Learn. Adapt! Show up again! Repeat cycle for the
rest of your life. (This advice is not just for studio singers!)


8. Is studio singing a solid enough career that someone could make
their living from singing sessions alone? Is this only for the
highest-paid, "first call" singers, or is this a realistic goal for
many studio singers?

Yes, there are recording session singer careers out there, but you
must choose a city where it exists. "First call" singers will be the
only ones not having to supplement their income with other jobs.
Things get more complicated as you enter markets like New York, but
so does getting an apartment and buying groceries.


9. What is the single most important piece of advice you could give
to young singers looking to be studio vocalists?

I don't have a single piece of advice. Life experience cannot be
reduced to a single piece of advice. If someone can do that then
they are probably just wishing it were so. I wish it were that
simple too. Please click here to read the comment posted by a
University of Texas music student and my answer.
Open an IRA. If needed, skip two pizzas per month to fund it. Never
quit funding it. There's no retirement for most of us at the end of
this music career, so take care of yourself. It's your life, so it's
your responsibility. It's that simple.

Strive for honesty with yourself and with the people you are asking
to help you.

Take a look at your arrogance. Most of we singers have it. It's our
biggest obstacle.

Be both ambitious and fair in all matters professional and personal.
Thank you, Jameson, for your sincere and pertinent questions. My
best for success in your life and career.

�Gary Powell

from http://www.garypowell.com/blogs/?m=200512

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Write On,

Ande

TAKE a FREE songwriting course at
_www.SongU.com/ifs_ (http://www.SongU.com/ifs)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

IF YOU ARE A SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS
feel free to browse through my catalog
you might find something you love
_http://songramp.com/ande_ (http://songramp.com/ande)

Please let me know if you do

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Are you on MYSPACE YET
you'll find me at
_www.myspace.com/anders_ (http://www.myspace.com/anders)
Send me a friend INVITE
Put me in your top 8
Set up a site
put up a few songs and your gig calendar.
find friends and fans

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you well.

What do you hope to accomplish in 2006?
Sit down and imagine your future ~ Write Down your Goals
Imagine what you'll have to do to make it happen ~ Write down your plans
Then get to work ~ Do your plan

We live in a cause / effect world,
If you want to see some special effects in your life
you need to be the cause.

I believe in luck, but I also believe the harder your work the luckier you
get.

What's new in your songwriting world?
This week I found a $200 ASCAP plus Award check in my mail box.
I've also had a few artists email me and ask if they could try out, perform
or record several of my songs.

One cool thing is I was driving to the coast, I turned on the radio and my
song was playing.
"Hand Over Your Heart" that I cowrote with Abi Tapia was playing on 94.7  fm.
you can hear it at
_http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=28875_
(http://www.songramp.com/view.ez?sampleid=28875)

One of the important issues for songwriters is
What is your annual songwriting budget?
How much willl you spend on your songwriting in 2006?
How will you spend it?

Will you attend any conferences?
Will you spend it on demos?
Will you invest it in a better website?
Will you get your songs on ITUNES?

I wish you the best as you make your way through this new year.

You'll find some wonderful stuff in this IFS /  SongWriter BLOG issue.

Write on,

Ande Rasmussen

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

john Arthur martinez sent this email announcing some of his 2006  plans


Quick Glance at Immediate Calendar:

Jan. 15 Fredericksburg, TX
KFAN Window on Texas Music Series, Hangar Hotel,
6 P.M. 830-997-9990
155 Airport Road, 3.

Jan. 19 _www.luckenbacktexas.com_ (http://www.luckenbacktexas.com)
Luckenbach Dance Hall, Live Recording of Viva Terlingua,
SOLDOUT Already! 7:00 P.M.

Jan. 20 Safety Harbor, Florida Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce  sponsored
concert 7:00 P.M.

Jan. 21 Florida Private Party, Chandler Family

Jan. 22 Florida Brunch and Concert


Howdy Friends, Folks, and  Fans,


It looks like 2006 is shaping up to be a fine year for us--I'm  mean myself,
my
family and my jAmily. I wish ya'll could've helped usher 2006  with us at the
New Year's Eve show with Asleep At The Wheel. Yvonna says it  was one of the
best the band has ever performed.

**We'll tour Europe  in the summer (France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and
  The
Netherlands).

**Luchenbach, Texas in conjunction with Palo Duro  Records distributed through
Universal will release a compilation which will  include yours truly and many
Texas stars this Spring.

**A nationally  released book and CD with john Arthur martinez singing a
Spanish
version of  "Don't Laugh At Me" will be released this year. "Don't Laugh At
Me"
which  went to number one as a country single was released with great success
as
a  childrens book by the co-writers Steve Seskin and Allan Shamblin.

**A  bobblehead will be created of john Arthur, wearing the famous Manuel
"Texas"
jacket first seen on Nashville Star; it will be sold to benefit the  American
Red
Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

**The john Arthur  martinez/Mike Blakely duo album will be release within 45
days.

**A  full fledged studio album of new and unrecorded material will be
released  in
time for this summer's European tour.

**We're returning to Florida  and New England for more concerts. And, Bette,
plans to do the same in other  areas where there are willing hosts for fan
club
concerts.

Thanks for  your purchase of Live In New England, from here on out I'll let
the
Connextion handle the orders.

Vayan con Dios,

john Arthur  & Yvonna
_www.johnarthurmartinez.net_ (http://www.johnarthurmartinez.net)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

on _http://www.venturevoice.com_ (http://www.venturevoice.com/)
you'll find an interesting interview with CDBaby's Derek Sivers
it's show  #19
_http://www.venturevoice.com/2005/11/vv_show_19_derek_sivers_of_cd.html#more_
(http://www.venturevoice.com/2005/11/vv_show_19_derek_sivers_of_cd.html#more)

Please let me know what you think of it
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Ever Heard of MATISYAHU

I think he's really great


The Buzz: A Hasidic Jew who's taking the reggae world by storm? You read it
right -- reggae! Drop your preconceptions and jump around to Matisyahu's
inspiring jam.

_http://music.aol.com/artist/main.adp?artistid=698529_
(http://music.aol.com/artist/main.adp?artistid=698529)

_http://www.hasidicreggae.com_ (http://www.hasidicreggae.com/)

MATISYAHU
Matisyahu's Official Website on Sony Music. ... By 11th  grade, despite his
carefree days, Matisyahu couldn't ignore the void in his  life. ...
_http://www.matismusic.com/_ (http://www.matismusic.com/)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  "Everything comes down to being real," she says. "Every song I do  reflects
something I’ve been through or something I’ve felt. My songs are my
journals. Whatever I feel at the moment, whatever emotion I’m going through,
is  what
I write about. It's very therapeutic for me to vent that way. I don’t cry  to
my friends. I put it on paper."
~ Danielle Peck
_http://www.showdognashville.com/?content=danielle_
(http://www.showdognashville.com/?content=danielle)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

MUSEXPO 2006 CONVENES IN LOS ANGELES APRIL 30 – May 3
Open dialogue is  key and communication the competitive edge. With this in
mind, A&R Worldwide  is proud to announce MUSEXPO 2006, a forward thinking
exclusive gathering that  will examine the most pressing and controversial
facets
of the global music  business, and provide networking opportunities that lead
to  deals.

MUSEXPO 2006 will focus on attracting a limited, exclusive group  of
high-level music and media professionals from around the world, including  label
presidents, A&R and publishing executives, programmers from some of  the world's
most-influential and artist-friendly radio stations, film/TV and  interactive
music supervisors, digital providers, mobile and online platforms,  bookers and
promoters as well as artists and artist managers.

The  round-table networking sessions will address international music and
media  industry creative issues and bring about positive solutions. In addition,
identify artist development needs and opportunities in the changing
international music marketplace.

The conference will place a strong  emphasis on the discovery AND development
of talent. MUSEXPO will explore  creative avenues to market and break new
artists as well as highlight some of  its stellar discoveries at its evening
artist showcases.
Registration will  be strictly limited, to enhance the interpersonal
experience and enable maximum  productivity.
Recording Academy members can attend MUSEXPO for 15% off the  regular
registration price.  Register before January 31 for $420.75  (regularly $495) or
after January 31 for $505.75 (regularly $595).  Log on  to
musexpo.net/recordingacademy.html to register. For more information on the 
conference log on to
www.musexpo.net
Highlights from 2005
The inaugural  MUSEXPO attracted some phenomenal executives from around the
world including:  CNN’s Larry King moderated the Keynote Panel that included
Clear Channel CEO  Brian Becker, The Recording Academy’s Neil Portnow,
Universal
Music Video  Distribution Chairman Jim Urie, Rock artist extraordinaire Dave
Navarro, and  NAPSTER Chairman/CEO Chris Gorog.

MUSEXPO also had participation from  MySpace.com co-founder/President Tom
Anderson, (former) BBC Radio 1 Head of  Music Policy Alex Jones-Donelly, BBC
Radio 2 Head of Music Policy Colin Martin,  KCRW Los Angeles Head of Music Nic
Harcourt, EA Worldwide Head of Music Steve  Schnur, ITB Managing Director Barry
Dickins, The Agency Group CEO Neil Warnock,  Nettwerk Management’s Peter Leak
(Dido, Avril Lavigne), XM Satellite Radio VP  Programming Lee Abrams, “Indie
103.1FM” Los Angeles Program Director Michael  Steele, DKD Group Chairman
Donald
K. Tarlton, Chrysalis Music Group US President  Kenny MacPherson, Sony Music
Executive VP A&R/Daylight Records President  David Massey, Buena Vista
Pictures Group, EVP Motion Picture Music Glen Lajeski,  Sanctuary Artist
Management
President Peter Asher, Atlantic Records Group  Chairman/CEO Craig Kallman,
Virgin Records Group US Chairman/CEO Jason Flom and  over 500 other key
executives
from around the world.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


RajiWorld has just signed on to represent two  artists, one of whom is an old
client returning to the stage, the incomparable  Kathy Valentine
(_http://www.kathyvalentine.com_
(http://www.rajiworldnews.com/vtzcbvzj_yfwdpqwpwv.html) )
  (GoGo's, Delphines) and the other is a newcomer to RajiWorld,  The  Lucky
Tomblin Band  (_http://www.luckytomblinband.com_
(http://www.rajiworldnews.com/zvsbfmsw_yfwdpqwpwv.html) )!  Kathy has a new CD,
Light Years, that has been
receiving  loads of press, and a new band, The Impossible, that includes Clem
Burke, Gilby  Clarke, Mark "Muddy" Dutton and Abby Travis.  Lucky has an
all-star cast of players: Redd Volkaert, Earl Poole Ball, John X Reed, Bobby
Arnold, Sarah Brown and Jon Hahn! A mid-February CD release has them playing in
Austin February-April and takes them on the road in May. Check our website for
available dates in your area to showcase these A-Team bands.

join MySpace (_http://myspace.com/rajiworld_
(http://www.rajiworldnews.com/ixtkcftt_yfwdpqwpwv.html) ),  so please join us
there.

RajiWorld/RTC
806A W. 10th St.
Austin TX 78701
512-478-0400
_http://www.rajiworld.com_ (http://www.rajiworld.com)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

18th Annual International Folk Alliance Conference
February 10 -  14, 2006  Austin, Texas
For the Sake of the Song
The premier professional development conference focused on folk, roots,
multicultural and world music in North America comes to Austin to kick up its
heels and strut its stuff  in one of the continent’s great music cities. This
year’
s conference theme, For  the Sake of the Song, is a tribute to Texas native
Townes Van Zandt, and to all our Folk  Alliance members so actively engaged in
the performance, preservation and  promotion of folk music, dance and
storytelling.
_http://www.folkalliance.net/conference/index.php_
(http://www.folkalliance.net/conference/index.php)


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Are you going to
ASCAP's I Create MUSIC EXPO?

_http://www.ascap.com/expo/_ (http://www.ascap.com/expo/)


Hollywood Renaissance  Hotel
Hollywood & Highland
Los Angeles,  CA
           (https://secure.rhq.com/ascap/ascap2006/attreg/index.cgi) The
First and Only National Conference
100% Dedicated to Songwriting  and Composing
A  MUST ATTEND EVENT CUSTOM DESIGNED FOR MUSIC CREATORS AND THOSE  THAT
SUPPORT THEM        • Songwriters
•  Composers
• Music Publishers
• Music Producers
• Record Executives  • Entertainment Attorneys
• Managers
• Agents
• Music  Supervisors
DEVELOP  YOUR CRAFT WITH THE GREATS    > Be inspired by celebrity keynotes  >
Participate in writing and producing  workshops and master classes with
contemporary hitmakers  > Receive one-on-one advice in special  mentoring
sessions
with top writers and industry  executives  > Engage in unique panels and
programs with  some of the most accomplished SONGWRITERS,  COMPOSERS AND
PRODUCERS
in the world.
GAIN  KNOWLEDGE AND TOOLS TO BOOST YOUR CAREER    > View state of the art
technology  demonstrations and product displays designed exclusively for  music
creators.  > Customize your Expo experience by  attending dynamic panel
sessions and genre-specific workshops  featuring top creators and industry
professionals on how to  build a successful career as a songwriter, composer,
publisher
or producer. Subjects will include "HOW TO":   • Make Money in the  Music
Business
• Build Your Dream Team to Reach Your Goals
• Navigate the Digital Superhighway
• Market Your  Music to an International Community
• Read a Music  Contract
• Place Your Songs in TV, Films, Advertising  & Games
• Break Into the World of Film and TV Scoring
• Get to Broadway with a Stage Musical  > Attend exclusive performances and
networking events.
EARLY  BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS JANUARY 31ST    All mentoring sessions have
been  filled, but the Early Bird discounted pricing offer is open  until January
31st. Register today and save up to $170 off the  regular full price.
PRICING  AND REGISTRATION:    Early  Bird Pricing Available
For pricing information and  online registration _Click  here_
(http://www.ascap.com/expo/registration.html) .
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Winter Music Conference, in its 21st year, is regarded as the leading
networking event in the dance music industry, attracting professionals  from
over 60
different countries. With its high concentration of top  international
artists, DJs and industry professionals, WMC permeates the  international press
and
is thereby one of the most publicized events in  the business. Every aspect of
the industry is represented including the  top technological innovators,
artists, DJs, producers, radio and video  programmers, retailers, distributors,
audio manufacturers and many more.
There are countless reasons why people from all over the world return  year
after year for this event, the most outstanding one being that there  is
nothing else in the world like it.

Recording Academy members can  register for WMC 2006 at a substantial
discount.  Register before  March 8, 2006 and pay only $195 (regularly
$235-$335).
After March  8, 2006 members of The Academy can register for $275 (regularly
$395).

Members who attend WMC are invited to The Recording Academy  and Winter Music
Conference “Dance Music Forum” Panel on Friday, March 24,  2006 from
3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Regency Ballroom with a VIP Reception  immediately
following in
the Vista Room-Penthouse at the Wyndham Miami  Beach Resort.  This special
VIP Reception is for Recording Academy  members only and invited guests.  No
entry fee but capacity is  limited - guests should arrive early.  RSVP is a must
to 305.672.4060  or florida@...

If you would like to take advantage of The  Recording Academy discount for
WMC 2006, please fill out the attached form  and fax to Winter Music Conference
at 954.563.6889.

When you pick  up your registration, you must show your Recording Academy
Member  Card.  If you do not have a Member Card, please call the Florida 
Chapter
at the above number for an alternative means of  identification.

For more information on Winter Music Conference  please visit
www.WinterMusicConference.com or call 954.563.4444.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Digital music enjoys a DReam Week


_http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/08/AR20060108006
32.html_
(http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/08/AR2006010800632\
.html)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Rouse House Concerts

Hi Everyone

My daughter Deb and her husband Lindsey are going  to continue the tradition
of Rouse House Concerts by hosting  housconcerts in their home in the
Heights in Houston. They will be  starting with Erik Balkey, a Newfolk
winner from Kerrville. If you  would like to be added to their mailing list
and/or if you would like  to attend this concert, their contact information
is below. I plan to  make as many of their concerts as I can!

Liz

From Deb and  Lindsey:

One of the things Deb and I wanted to do this year is to  begin hosting
house concerts.  Well, we have our  chance.

We will be hosting, Erik Balkey, a nationally  touring songwriter from
Philadelphia, on Saturday, January 21st,  2006.  Dinner (Lasagna) will be
served at 7:00 p.m.  The  performance begins at 8:00 p.m.  $10 suggested
artist donation  (all monies go to Erik)

To RSVP either call us at 713-426-6696 or  email
Rouse_House_Concerts@...

Liz Rouse
612 Rio Grande  Loop
Georgetown, Texas, 78628

e-mail address:
rouse_house@...
telephone:
512-931-2571

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Songwriting seminar with No.1 hit songwriters  Gary Hannan and Max T. Barnes,
Jr. on February 11th and  12th in Nashville. This event is limited to 20
songwriters.

Gary Hannan - with his No.1 song "Tequila Makes  Her Clothes Fall Off" by Joe
Nichols. Gary has been a staff writer in  Nashville for 8 years and has
several independent cuts (15 last year).  Gary has written on the road with
Montgomery Gentry, Lonestar and Ricochet  and has a new song being recorded by
Michael Peterson.

Gary will discuss:

Journey to the First  Big Hit song - staying focused and staying driven!

Conversational  Angle - Say it like you Speak It.

Max T Barnes  Jr. with hit songs including Diamond Rio's "That's How your
Love  Makes Me Feel", Colin Raye's "Love Me", Joe Diffe's "Tougher Than Nails"
and "A Night to Remember", John Anderson's "Let Go of the Stone".

Max T will discuss:

Coming from a Strange  Angle - Real life to Cool Lines, such as the line,
"There's a cow in the  road and you swerve to the left, fate skips a beat and it
scares you to  death" from the Diamond Rio song, "That's How Your Love Makes
Me Feel"

Co-writer alliances - the right and wrong co-writing situation

Spending your time Wisely

The day will be set up with (2)  groups of (10) writers each with Gary and
Max T and a question and answer  and performance by the pros.

Powergroups on  Sunday, Jan. 21st - (3) writers with (1) pro for song
critiques and  question and answer session with your group for one hour. $90.00
for
the  Sunday Power Group.

To register - send a check  to: Doak Turner at PO Box 121456 Nashville, TN
37212 for the Saturday  seminar - $135.00 includes lunch and snacks. After
February 3rd, the cost  is $165.00 for the seminar if avails remain.

Questions - e-mail  _doakt@..._ (mailto:doakt@...)  or call
615-354-6400.

*Friday night, February 9th will include dinner (on your own) and  a
songwriters round in Nashville for participants of the seminar.

The event will be held at 701 Brook Hollow Road in Nashville -  Doak's home
which is the home of the 3rd Sunday at 3 and the Guitar BQ  events

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Looking to get more Booking Opportunities for your  music?

Announcing the Creative Soul Booking Seminar, featuring Dawn  Jones,
author of "The Booking Workshop". Nashville, TN, February  9th, 2006.

At Creative Soul, we are specialists in creating great  music and
products for you to reach a large audience  successfully, but YOU have
to reach the audience, and you do  THAT by getting out there.

So, how do you get out  there?

We're planning a special, one-day event focused on how to  get more
bookings for your music. This will NOT be a day of  lectures! This will
be roundtables, hands-on, personal  application, workshopping, learning,
and above all teaching you  to IMPLEMENT these principles so you get
more bookings  IMMEDIATELY!

For info and to reserve your seat, go to
http://www.creativesoulonline.com/bookingseminar

---

Thanks  Ande!

EC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
Eric Copeland
Creative Soul  |  Music Production,  Demo Services, Consultation
www.CreativeSoulOnline.com
Nashville,  TN  |  615-400-3910

Free New Christian Music  Radio
www.CreativeSoulRadio.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

nextnumber1@... writes:

I  just received a call from my friend at the RCA label and she said she is
listening really hard for these artists:

alan jackson, blaine  larsen, john piercenew duo, jake owen, ronnie milsap

I have a  pitch meeting with her next Friday. I need great uptempo MALE songs
for  any artist listed. If you have something or know a great writer who
does, please feel free to forward this message on to them.

Songs  must be to me by Wed. afternoon at  latest.

~Patricia

NextNumberOne Music
1010 16th. Av. S.  Ste. 105
Nashville, TN.  37212

615-430-9277

www.nextnumber1.com
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Put your music on Clear Channel's New Music  site


_http://newmusic.clearchannel.com/register/member.html_
(http://newmusic.clearchannel.com/register/member.html)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sell your music in JAPAN

_http://www.cdjam.jp/_ (http://www.cdjam.jp/)

Don't be  scared by the Japanese language at this website. On the left, in
English,  is "Artist Login". This will then direct you to an English site
explaining  what they do, etc.

Below is a June article about cdjam.

Indies - sell your music in Japan




CDJam - Linking Music Makers  with Music Lovers Press Release by: Jeffrey
Martin FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact Information: Jeffrey Martin /
jeff@...
/ www.cdjam.jp  Dateline: 24 June 2005 Japan is the world's second largest
market for  prerecorded music and is known for its fanatical jazz fans. Many of
these  fans would be interested in indie jazz - if they knew about. CDJam is a
  new online project to help independent North American, European, African,
and Australian artists sell into the Japanese market. For artists with
recordings to sell, CDJam will create a web page for you in Japanese,  process
and
handle all your Japan orders, and provide you translated  feedback from your
Japanese fans. The project is being launched by Jeffrey  Martin, who has lived
in
Japan for 13 of the last 15 years and has spent  seven of those as a DJ on an
FM station in Fukuoka, and his partner of the  last 12 years, Mutusmi
Kawamura, a professionally trained and experienced  translator and interpreter.
CDJam
is currently recruting artists to place  recordings for the launch of the
shop in late summer of 2005. Independent  artists and small label owners are
invited to learn more at: _www.cdjam.jp_ (http://www.cdjam.jp)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


ALW is a lyric critique community to help  advanced songwriters write better
commercial songs. We're looking for  positive people who are strong lyric
writers and can constructively  critique lyrics.

AWL also welcomes:
1) talented melody  writers,
2) performing and recording artists, and
3)  producers.

We want active participants. Meaning, critique others  lyrics and offer your
lyrics for critique.
Please only post ONE lyric  per day and comment on at least 4 other lyrics
for each one you post.
No spamming, No slamming and No bashing, Be friendly and professional
We're looking for constructive feedback.
No off topic chat, posts  need to be connected to songwriting or music.

If a writer violates  one of these policies
She will receive a warning, if it happens again
We simply REMOVE that person from this group.
We hope to create an  community where writers feel comfortable posting their
creations and  asking for feedback.

Membership is restricted and is granted on a  case by case approval basis.

ALW is for serious songwriters
To  qualify members need to have
1) written at least 50 songs
2)  gotten at least one cut (indy's OK) or had a song win a song contest
3) thoroughly grasp advanced lyric writing concepts; or
4) belong  in one of our exception categories

If you'd like to be considered  here's the process

1) read the criteria on
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AdvancedLyricWriters

2) Send us  a short email about you
why you qualify, your bio, and  website
where we can read your lyrics or hear your  tunes
AdvancedLyricWriters-owner@yahoogroups.com
In the subject  field write:
ALW APP

3) Send an empty email to
AdvancedLyricWriters-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

let's write  some great songs
_http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/AdvancedLyricWriters/_
(http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/AdvancedLyricWriters/)
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I wish you the best!
Write On,

Ande


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Check out SongU
drop by
www.SongU.com/ifs
and take a free course

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear IFS Readers,

How's your new year going so far?

I've spent the last 5 days being sick, I'm still coughing a lot.

I've got a few new songs and a couple cuts in the works.

Ande

How about the UT Longhorns winning the RoseBowl?
Did anyone watch the game?

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

There's still time to sign up for the

Old Number 9 Eliza Gilkyson Workshop
if you can't do the workshop consider attending the
the Saturday night performance and campfire.
www.oldno9.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Anyone going going to steve Seskins workshop in Nashville
www.SteveSeskin.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

SINGER SEARCHING FOR SONGS

Date: Jan/01/2006
By: Angela Johnson
E-mail: angiejoh@...

Subject: Singer looking for songs

Comment:
Hi, we are looking for songs for our daughter who plans to put an
independent album together later in the year. Jaimie has
a 'Charlotte Church/Haley Westenra' style voice. Classical,
Classical Crossover, Celtic, Religious and Slow Ballads are all ok.
You can listen to Jaimie's voice at
http://www.iamthenextidol.com/cgi/login.pl?jaimieleigh


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here's websites for This years crop of Nashville Star Regional
Finalists.


Amy Adams - Not from AI 3

Angela McCall - www.isound.com/music/angela_mccall

Anthony Raines - www.myspace.com/anthonyraines

Ashley Grutter - www.ashleygrutter.com
Ashley Grutter - www.myspace.com/ashleygrutter

Bob Neace - www.pizzabob.com
Bob Neace - www.myspace.com/pizzabobneace

Brandi Jean Yagow - might be the BJY who is a St. Louis Rams
Cheerleader

Bryan Popp - No songs yet, web page coming

Carrie Furman - www.carriefurman.com
Carrie Furman - www.myspace.com/carriefurman

Carrie Hickman - www.carriehickman.com
Carrie Hickman - www.myspace.com/carriehickman

Casey Rivers - www.caseyrivers.com

Chris Young - www.chrisyoungcountry.com
Chris Young - www.myspace.com/chrisyoungmusic

Dean Miller - http://www.deanmiller.info

Eric Dove - www.ericdove.com
Eric Dove www.myspace.com/ericdove

Eric Neznik - www.ericneznik.com
Eric Neznik - www.myspace.com/ericneznik

Faith Drummond -

Gerald Lanier -

Haley Davis -

Jay Teter - www.jayteter.com

Jennifer Bennett -

Jennifer Dixon -

Jewels Hanson - www.jewelshanson.com

Josh Helms -

Justin Hatcher -

Karri Fedor - www.myspace.com/karri_beth

Kimberley Dawn -

Kristen McNamara - www.kristenmcnamara.com
Kristen McNamara -
http://home.comcast.net/~amuletmusic/pages/kristen.html

Kristen Stehr -

Lita Williams - www.litawilliams.com

Lori Ann Feeley -

Mary Sue Englund-Oleson - www.marysusanoleson.com

Matt Mason

Mike Rodgers - www.honkytonkhitman.com
Mike Rodgers - www.myspace.com/mikerodgershonkytonkhitman

Monique L - www.myspace.com/moniquechereelecompte

Neil Freestone - www.neilfreestone.com

Nicole Jamrose - http://www.nwilive.com/band_display.php?Band=Jamrose

Paul Crace - www.freewebs.com/paulcrace/

Phillip Buchanan -

Sage Keffer - www.sagekeffer.com

Sarah Jo Gray - www.sarahjogray.com

Shy Blakeman - www.whiskeyfever.com
www.shyblakeman.com
Shy Blakeman - www.myspace.com/shyblakeman

Stephen Liles - http://www.stephenliles.com/

Whitney Williams - http://www.whitneywilliamsmusic.com


Possibly Related News
Nicole Jamrose - http://www.midwestbeat.com/ezine/july2002/street.htm
Dean Miller - http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/miller_dean/artist.jhtml
Casey Rivers - http://www.insp.com/cats2005/performance.asp?
performance=80
Bryan Popp - http://www.riverstagesonline.com/nightlife/?
section=e&navid=290
Bryan Popp - pop cd from his past http://cdbaby.com/cd/bryanpopp

www.jaredashley.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Boston music college strikes new chord with bluegrass
http://www.denverpost.com/entertainment/ci_3361165

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Creative Soul presents, "A Booking Seminar"
February 9th, 2006 in Franklin, TN (just south of Nashville)

Special Guest and Instructor: Dawn Jones, author of "The Booking
Workshop"

What do you need for your music ministry more than anything else?
Opportunities to minister!

At Creative Soul, we are specialists in creating great music and
products for you to reach a large audience successfully, but YOU have
to reach the audience, and you do THAT by getting out there.

So, how do you get out there?

We're planning a special, one-day event focused on how to get more
bookings for your music ministry. This will NOT be a day of lectures!
This will be roundtables, hands-on, personal application,
workshopping, learning, and above all teaching you to IMPLEMENT these
principles so you get more bookings IMMEDIATELY!

Here's what we'll be talking about:

A. 7 ways to get paid for your talent

1. What is your talent Value?
2. Should you have a concert fee?
3. Working with their budget & overcoming obstacles!
4. Love offering: what if there's more LOVE than offering?
5. Streams of Revenue-are you putting your eggs in one basket?
6. Royalties: can you earn them without a record deal?
7. Websites & EPK's: Making them work for you!

B. Successful BookingT for Soloists, Speakers & Bands

* 5-mistakes artists make in getting gigs, and how to avoid them!

1. Who is going to book you?
2. What are You Booking?
3. It's not about Me-Discovering their needs
4. First Impressions-what they hear is what they expect!
5. Attitude: What's Not Being Said is Being Heard

* Are you talking people into or out of booking your ministry?
* Why should they book you? Identifying what makes you unique.

C. Booking Strategies: How to get the gig NOW!

* THE PHONE: How to have a conversation rather than a "sales pitch"
* Contacting the right person: Stop getting the run around
* How to get people to call you back not put you off!
* Setting a Date: It's easier than you might think

We'll also have artists there who are having REAL success, and will
tell you their stories on how they get their schedule packed with
dates.

To top it off, we're having it the day BEFORE the GMA Academy in
Nashville, a fantastic two-day event if you haven't been. You can
find
more details on that at www.gospelmusic.org

This will be a limited-seating event, so enroll early at
www.CreativeSoulOnline.com/BookingSeminar

The fee is only $50 until January 13th and $75 after that until the
conference, but we will have to close the registration at a certain
number to keep the personal attention atmosphere we want for this.

EXTRAS:

1. We have three days (Mon-Wed) mavailable that week for
consultation,
writing/arranging, or studio work with Creative Soul if you want to
package a trip to include other work. These will be gone VERY soon.

2. We'd like to offer one artists who is seeking to begin work with
Creative Soul the opportunity to combine our "Christian Artist
Workshop" with the Booking Seminar, and the GMA Academy. Producer
Eric
Copeland would be your guide through the GMA Academy, steering you to
the right classes for you that weekend.

Please email us here for any information on any of this if you have
questions!

Thanks and we hope to see you soon.

EC

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Write On,
Ande

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you well. I had a nice christmas and a few
days ago I received a CD with a new cut and a check that I didn't
know was coming. That's always fun.

I just went over 1,000 friends on www.myspace.com/anders

My son received a $50 Itunes Gift Certificate from his uncle and I
think lots of kids did.  In the coming years I'm sure we'll see CD
sales drop as online sales dramatically increase.

I recently bought Bo Bice's new CD "The Real Thing" and I downloaded
INXS "Pretty Vegas" and Todd Snider's "Ballad of the Kingsmen" from
Itunes

If you have a song on Itunes I'd love to drop by and check it out.
If I really like it maybe I'll buy it or write about it.
email me and put
IFS Itunes
in the subject field

There's some great stuff in this issue.

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

There's still time to sign up for the

Old Number 9 Eliza Gilkyson Workshop
if you can't do the workshop consider attending the
the Saturday night performance and campfire.
www.oldno9.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Study the CD and read the credits.

I recently bought Bo Bice's CD The Real Thing
I noticed that everyone who got a cut on the CD was
1) the artist,
2) the producer,
3) one of the producers collaborators, or
4) a player on the project

My suggestion to you is if you want to get more cuts in the future,
it's probably wise to place yourself in one of those 4 categories.
On Bice's CD only one song made it on the CD

you can read the credits on Bice's CD at:

http://www.bobice.com/index.php?content=album&album=36605

Here's the song list plus writer and producer credits

01. The Real Thing
(Kara DioGuardi, Marti Frederiksen)
Produced by Marti Frederiksen

02. You're Everything
(Chad Kroeger)
Produced by Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi

03. U Make Me Better
(Martin Sandberg, Lukasz Gottwald, Jill Latiano)
Produced by Max Martin and Lukasz "Dr. Luke" Gottwald for Maratone
Productions & Kasz Money Productions

04. Nothing Without You
(Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, John Shanks)
Produced by John Shanks

05. My World
(Mitch Allan, John Allen)
Produced by Ben Moody
Additional Production by Mitch Allan
Guitars & Bass: Mitch Allan
Drums & Percussion: John Allen
Background Vocals: Mitch Allan

06. Remember Me
(Kara DioGuardi, Marti Frederiksen)
Produced by Marti Frederiksen
All Instruments and Background Vocals by Marti Frederiksen

07. Hold On to Me
(Jess Cates, Dennis Matkosky, Lindy Robbins)
Produced by John Shanks

08. Lie...It's All Right
(Martin Sandberg, Lukasz Gottwald)
Produced by Max Martin and Lukasz "Dr. Luke" Gottwald for Maratone

09. It's My Life
(Clif Magness, Kara DioGuardi, Bo Bice)
Produced by Clif Magness

10. Willing to Try
(John Shanks, Richie Sambora)
Produced by John Shanks

11. Valley of Angels
(Bo Bice, Clif Magness)
Produced & Arranged by Clif Magness

EXCLUSIVE BONUS TRACKS (DUALDISC ONLY)  Lyrics

Cinnamon & Novocaine
Sinner In A Sin
Whiskey, Women & Time
Words and Music by Bo Bice


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Congratualtions to Tim Fagan the winner of the Esquire John Mayer
contest
http://www.esquire.com/features/articles/2005/051207_mfe_fagan.html


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Debbie Beinhorn has moved to Austin and is doing a vocal workshop in
Austin

Hello and Happy New Year!

This will be my first opportunity to work in Austin as an Austinite!
  letting folks know by forwarding the following info if  you can.

I'll be doing a very inexpensive 6 wk course starting Jan 10th at
the State Theater downtown.

For class info:

www.beinhornvocals.com
1-800-245-SING (7464)
1-713-827-SING (7464)

Debbie Beinhorn
Beinhorn Vocals
Donna Wrabel, Assistant 1-832-368-0826

Thank you sooo much!
Debbie

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Have you made a music video?
If so submit it to myspace

Wanna be on MySpace Videos?

We are still building our video section,
go submit all your videos right now!
Submit Video

http://videos.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=videos

Attention bands!
Do you want to be on MySpace Videos?
Submit your video to our editorial department for review and
you might just get featured on MySpace Videos!
Important!

The video must be in 300kbps, Windows Media format.
Sample URL: http://www.bandname.com/videos/song.wmv
Band name:
Band's MySpace URL:
Genre:
Label:
Link to Video:
Song Name:
Comments (optional):

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Any one going to the Nashville Star Regional Finals in Houston and
Nashville?

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  Singer Searching for Songs

Date: Dec/12/2005
By: Paul J Cummings
E-mail: paul@...

Title: Singer
Company: The Paul Cummings Band

Subject: Songs Needed For Nashville Tour

Comment:
First off, thanks to all who submitted music for my CD project. I
had over 150 song submissions which made it very hard to pick just
10. This time im looking for music to play on my Nashville Tour
starting in June of 06. The tour starts in Buffalo and ends in
Nashville and it's a great opportunity to get your songs heard.
Please e-mail me your submissions and include a music only track as
well so I can hand that to the band (I find it easier for them to
learn songs without any vocals). Thanks again and I hope we can help
you get these great songs heard...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Nashville Songwriters and Guitar
http://groups.myspace.com/index.cfm?
fuseaction=groups.groupProfile&groupid=100002681


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jake Dynnis impressed me
http://www.myspace.com/jakedynnis

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

deanna johnston who was on the INXS reality show is on myspace

HHEEEYYYY!!! My week is crazy, busy getting ready for the Holidays.
I'll be flying home to Canada to be with my family, can't wait!!!
Yeah!!! Just wanted to wish you all a VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!!!!
I wish I had enough money to send each and every one of you, my
friends, my fans, a Christmas card!!!! I want you to know how much I
appreciate your support and faith in me. I will work my ass off in
2006 to finish my CD and hopefully hit your town on a tour!!! 2006,
DREAM BIG Y'ALL!!!! Hope to see you in Vegas Dec. 29, 30, 31 &1st at
the Brew Pub in The Monte Carlo Resort. --------------- Also, just
incase you didn't know, for booking information and requests go to
the 'contact' page on my website. -------------- Did you see it, did
you see it???? My band and I were on Jay Leno last Tuesday night. A
skit called "What John learned about the LA music scene". It was
really funny!!! Several wacky and not so wacky artists were
interviewed and filmed performing in typical, silly Leno style. It
was cool, glad to have had that opportunity, even though I was
silly!!! --------------- OK, OK, apparently there is some confusion
out there as to who's voice is on the song 'Hot Girls' off the new
INXS CD, 'Switch'!!!! Is it me, or Suzie McNeil? Well, just to
clarify, IT'S ME!!! I'm singing harmonies on all choruses except the
first one, I'm also singing 'don't need your love and all that
stuff', and that gut wrenching 'hot giirrrlllzzzzzzzz' wailing part.
Now y'all know!!! ----------------- Remember, if you don't have any
plans for New Years Eve yet, join me and my band at this very hip
rock club called The Brew Pub, at The Monte Carlo Resort & Hotel in
Las Vegas. I'll be performing there December 29, 30, 31 & 1st. My
band is comprised of great bunch of guys.....Shawn Rorie on guitar
and vocals, Wade Williams, guitar and vocals, Jeff Abercrombie on
bass (from the band FUEL) and Chuck Sparks on drums. ----------------
---- My website is re-vamped, up and running. I have the merchandise
page started, song clips of previously recorded material, clips of
my RockStar performances, as well as material I'm currently working
on, new photos, an improved 'news' section, press articles posted,
etc.etc.. A rockin' blues-rock CD I recorded in 1996, is available
for purchase, as well as signed 8x10's!!! When my video is edited,
it will also be on the site for viewing. -------------- BIO: Deanna
was born and raised in Kingston, Ontario Canada. She is the second
of four children. Although initially interested in sports, Deanna
discovered her love of music during college where she received a
degree in graphic design from St. Lawrence College in 1992. Upon
graduation, she worked as a graphic designer for a year and a half
while exploring her music skills. She was then asked to go on tour
with a band and never looked back. Some of her favorite artists are
Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin, Bad Company and U2. Her voice has been
most compared to Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge. Currently some
of her favorite CDs include The Best of Bread and U2's The Joshua
Tree. Deanna lived and gigged in Vancouver for five years before
making the leap to Los Angeles where she performed with a band
called The MVPs. She has performed for Oprah Winfrey and has shared
the stage with Edgar Winter, Chaka Khan and Kelly Clarkson to name a
few. Deanna has been making a living performing all over the US and
Canada for the past 14 years.

deannajohnston.net

http://www.myspace.com/deannajohnston

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

curb music publishing has a myspace site

About curbmusicpublishing

We at Curb are trying to utilize this site by testing our favorite 4
songs of the month and getting feedback from the myspace community.
We also want to introduce our writers and inform the public of when
they'll be playing out. Please tell your friends and family about
our page and to tell us what you think about our songs (ie. good,
bad, which artist you hear it for, etc.). We believe myspace.com and
other related sites are going to be a new, great medium to exploit
new music and artists.

Our Songwriters:

RODNEY ATKINS
Rodney Atkins is country - every essence of country. He comes from
it, writes about it, and sings about it. He loves it. And he's proud
of it. He believes in how its music affects people. "There are
values and beliefs inside of country music that speak to people, and
its that spirit that lives at the Grand Ole Opry. I think that's why
they call it the �Mother Church of Country Music. Every time I'm on
that stage, I'm reminded of the message I'm supposed to carry out on
the road and on the radio to represent this format. It makes me
proud and very humbled." A native of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee,
Rodneys interest in music began when he was given a guitar as a
Christmas gift while in high school.


JOHN BARNER
8th generation Pennsylvanian John Barner was a professional musician
for 15 years before settling in Nashville, pursuing song writing
part-time while he and his wife built a successful restaurant and
catering business which they still operate near Murfreesboro. Barner
has a co-publishing deal with Curb Music and has cuts on Christian
artist Russ Lee, Marty Raybon, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Craig
Morgan, Brad Johner, Jamie Slocum and Lisa Brokop, among others. A
seminary graduate with a masters degree in Theology and
Intercultural Studies, Barner has worked part-time since 1990
leading church youth groups on short-term mission trips world-wide.


LISA BROKOP
Lisa Brokop was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and
first joined her drumming brother and accordion-playing mother
onstage at age seven. Since then she has worn a lot of different
hats, as a songwriter, and artist, a producer, and even an actress
in a feature film. Lisa songs have been cut by artists including
Jamie O'Neal, Terri Clark, Hal Ketchum, Reba McEntire, Billy Dean,
Kenny Rogers, Tammy Cochran, and Suzy Boguss. Some of her co-writers
include Steve Wariner, Kevin Paige, Liz Rose, and Mark Narmore.
Visit www.lisabrokop.com for more.


LEE BRICE
Lee Brice grew in up rural Sumter, South Carolina. After high school
he went to play college football at Clemson University. In 2001 he
pursued his musical dreams by moving to Nashville and was soon
signed by Curb Music Publishing and Asylum Records. Lee is being
produced by Doug Johnson and have already cut six tracks for his
upcoming Asylum Records debut (Spring of 2006). His musical
influences range form Garth Brooks to Aerosmith to Hank Williams Jr.
Lee recently obtained his very first cut on the well-known rockers
Sister Hazel with a song called Beautiful High. Lee has collaborated
with some of Nashvilles finest songwriters including Walt Wilkins,
Marv Green, Casey Bethard, Tim Nichols, Kerry Kurt Philips, Sharon
Vayghn, Jim Reilley, Bobby Tomberlin, and Frank Myers.


AMY DALLEY
Amy Dalley has been making music nearly all of her life. Born in
Kingsport, TN she grew up in the shadows of the Appalachians near
the Virginia state line. When she was old enough to write, Amy
started writing songs. Like her music today, her first efforts drew
from events in her everyday life. Beginning in 1994, Amy started
driving into Nashville to sing at open mic nights. Quickly she
realized that her future was in Music City, so moved to Nashville,
started waiting tables by day and performing wherever she could. In
2003 she was signed to Curb Records and began work on her debut
album which will be released in 2005. Amy Dalleys songs have been
recorded by Martina McBride, JoDee Messina, and others and she wrote
Reba McEntires recent single, My Sister. Amy is primarily a lyricist
and some of her co-writers include Lee Miller, Connie Harrington,
Angela Kaset, and Bonnie Baker. Visit
www.amydalley.com for more.


PHILIP DOUGLAS
Philip Douglas lives in Bowling Green, KY where he keeps his chops
up fronting the house band at a local club. Philip has had great
success as a writer with cuts by Lonestar, Tracy Lawrence, Clay
Walker, Aaron Tippin, Lisa Shaffer, Cowboy Crush, Lila McCann, Jeff
Carson, Billy Ray Cyrus, Ricky Van Shelton, and Chad Brock. In 2000
he achieved a ..1 record with Aaron Tippins, Kiss This which was
nominated for Song Of The Year by the Academy Of Country Music.
Philip also wrote Aaron Tippins Blue Angel. Some of Philips co-
writers include Casey Beatherd, Richie McDonald, Ron Harbin, Jim
Weatherly, Donny Kees, Wayne Perry, and Michael Garvin.


GILLES GODARD
Gilles Goddard has been coming to Nashville from his native Ontario
to write and produce since 1979 and in 1996 he finally made
Nashville his permanent home. He has worn many hats in his career as
a writer, steel guitarist, artist, producer, and publisher. Gilles
has had over 100 cuts throughout his career including Patty
Loveless', That's The Kind Of Mood I'm In and Terri Clarks, "I Wanna
Do It All". Other artists who have released Gilles Godard songs as
singles include Tracy Byrd, Ty Herndon, Lee Greenwood, Anne Murray,
Lisa Brokop and Ricky Skaggs. Buddy Jewell, Steve Holy, and Joe
Diffie have also recorded Gilles songs and he's had seven Terri
Clark cuts. Some of Gilles collaborators include Tim Nichols, Steve
Dorff, David Foster, Paul Williams, and Rick Giles. Gilles is
primarily a lyricist, but he also writes on guitar and is a session
steel player.


KYLE JACOBS
Kyle Jacobs hails from Minneapolis, MN and has been in Nashville for
six years. He achieved pop success with American Idol finalist
Kimberley Lockes Top 10 hit 8th World Wonder. He works on a constant
basis with hit songwriter/producer Shaun Shankel (Destinys Child,
Hillary Duff, Clay Aiken) and has collaborated with such hit
songwriters as Doug Johnson, Kylie Sackley, Melissa Pierce, Nicole
Witt, and Holly Lamar.


DOUG JOHNSON
For the past 26 years Doug Johnson has been a professional in the
music business. He has enjoyed success as a recording engineer,
mixer, musician, songwriter, producer and record company executive.
Johnson says, By far my greatest love is the song. Everything else
is an attempt to powerfully capture and express the song in its
truest sense, and to get it to the listener. As a songwriter Doug
has penned seven ..1 singles and thirteen Top 10 singles including
2003 CMA, ACM, NSAI, and CCMA Song Of The Year, and Grammy winning
Three Wooden Crosses. Other ..1 singles he has written include,
Livin In A Moment To Die For, Skin, Love Is Stronger Than Pride, and
I Dont Think I Will. Doug has had over one hundred songs recorded by
major artists including Rascal Flatts, Buddy Jewell, Trent Wilmon,
Shelly Fairchild, Kenny Rogers, Steve Holy, Collin Raye, Patty
Loveless, Ty Herndon, Lisa Brokop, Jeff Carson, Lee Greenwood, Don
Williams, the Oak Ridge Boys, John Michael Montgomery and others.
Doug says, I've been fortunate to be involved in several different
aspects of the music business. If I could only do one, it would
definitely be songwriting. Every other job I've had means absolutely
nothing without a great song. Doug writes on guitar and some of his
co-writers include Brett James, Harley Allen, and Pat Bunch.


JOE LEATHERS
Joe has been in and around music all his life. "I cant tell you how
many times I heard my parents yell, turn that crap down," says Joe."
After learning a few chords, Joe began writing very early. "I wrote
my first song when I was around 13, three chords and the truth as I
knew it." Playing the Memphis circuit in several different bands,
his musical influences are diverse. And that diversity is evident in
his songwriting," inspiration comes from all over the place," says
Joe, " women, dogs, cars, Wal-mart, I just try to pay attention to
whats going on around me." After winning awards for songwriting by
the Memphis Songwriters Association, Joe began regular trips to
Nashville. Visiting publishers, A&R reps and producers was
encouraging. He also began regular appearances on the Nashville
songwriters circuit. Appearing frequently at the Bluebird, Hall of
Fame Lounge, Broken Spoke, and others paid off in late 2002 when he
landed a writing deal at Curb. In 2005 his song, Big Picture was
released as a single by Lisa Brokop. In addition to the Nashville
scene, Joe is active in music programs at Grace Evangelical Church
and Young Life Ministries. In July of 2001, he led a 7-day music
missions trip to over 20 high schools in Guatemala. Joe and his wife
Jane live in West Tennessee with their four children, two Labrador
retrievers and a horse. Some of Joes co-writers include Gilles
Godard, Walt Wilkins, and Bobby Tomberlin.


BILLY MONTANA
Billy Montana has achieved two ..1 country records, Sara Evans Suds
In The Bucket (2004) and JoDee Messinas "Bring On The Rain"
(2002). "Bring On The Rain" was nominated for awards by both NARAS
(Grammys) and the Country Music Association and reached ..6 on the
A/C chart. It appeared on the Country and A/C Charts for a combined
total of 66 weeks! Suds In The Bucket was the most played female
country song of 2004. Billy Montana was first inspired to pick up a
guitar as a teenager in rural upstate New York by his musician
father and soon after formed a country/rock band with his brother.
In college Billy decided to try music full time and traded studying
agriculture at Cornell University for a record deal on Warner
Brothers. His 1996 Warner Brothers release No Yesterday was
critically acclaimed by such publications as USA Today, Music Row,
and Billboard. Billys songs have recurring themes of faith, love,
and rural life. Many prominent artists including Tim McGraw, Pat
Green, JoDee Messina, Sara Evans, Blake Shelton, Emmylou Harris,
Vince Gill, Sister Hazel, Steve Holy, Kenny Rogers, and Lee Ann
Womack have recorded his songs. Billy writes on guitar, is an
accomplished vocalist and some of his co-writers include Doug
Johnson, Frank Myers and Tia Sellers.


JIM REILLEY
Jim Reilley was founder of the critically acclaimed early 1990’s
folk-rock band The New Dylans. They released two albums and toured
the country sharing stages with Shawn Colvin, The Band, Townes Van
Zandt, 10,000 Maniacs, REM., and Superdrag. They have appeared on
NPR, MTV, and received significant airplay on AAA and Americana
stations. The New Dylans disbanded in 1996 and Jim Reilley was then
inspired after a solo gig at The Bluebird Café to relocate to
Nashville. Jim recently finished his second solo album produced by
Robert Reynolds of The Mavericks. This project includes members of
Wilco, The Black Crowes, and Cheap Trick, He has had cuts by Vince
Gill, Jack Ingram, Lauren Lucas, Susan Haynes, Tim O'Brien, Cowboy
Crush, and others. Jim is an exceptional lyricist and an
accomplished guitarist.


LEANN RIMES
LeAnn was born August 28, 1982 in Jackson, Mississippi, and began
singing before she reached the age of two. She moved to Texas a few
years later, and by age 11, had recorded her first album, All That,
which was released on a small, independent label. The buzz created
throughout Dallas by this album garnered the attention of Curb
Records. Shortly thereafter, LeAnn released her remarkable major
label debut, Blue, which went multi-platinum. The title track from
that album ultimately became one of her signature songs.


NATE SALLIE
The classically trained Nate Sallie grew up in Washington D.C
banging away on a Baldwin upright piano until his fingers
hurt. "Music brought out emotions in me like nothing else could. It
could make me laugh, scream and cry all during the same song." This
is when Nate realized how powerful a tool music was. This is what he
wanted to be a part of and use for the right reason: to reach those
within his reach. He would create musical masterpieces in his mind,
but looking back says "they were absolutely awful." Over the years,
he played his way in and out of bands, in and out of competitions,
and in and out of record deals. Nate's first experience inside a
recording studio involved recording three original songs live, which
led to his first record contract. "I thought I was on my way until I
realized that the record contract was the easy part." Before
recording his debut release Inside Out, Nate saw three record deals
come and go with no results. "I had no idea what was happening, each
time I would start to record, my record label would get bought out
by another label, and that was the end of it." It was definitely a
learning process for Nate who says he realizes what it is all about
now, and looking back, is glad he had the opportunity to grow both
musically and, most importantly, spiritually.


JAMIE SLOCUM
After two successful records, marked by strong radio hits and
critical acclaim, signed by Curb and about to begin tracking his
major label debut, Jamie Slocum had life by the tail. The problem
was, however, he didn't really have any songs, and he wasn't feeling
much like writing them. Instead, Jamie was having a crisis of
conscience. It's not that Jamie was depressed or conflicted. The
remarkably upbeat and endlessly likeable singer/songwriter is just
not that kind of guy. But as Jamie reflected on the next steps in
his music career, he was becoming more and more aware that
the "ideal" of an artist in the Christian music industry and the
reality of his life were two different things. He was no super-
Christian. He didn't have all the answers. He just loves to write
and play music, and loves to write and play about his life with
Jesus.


TRINI TRIGGS
Describe what gives Trini Triggs his undeniable charisma? Some would
say it's his boyish good looks. Others would swear it is his
megawatt smile. Still others would insist that it all has to do with
his overwhelming charm, while others would point out his unflappable
optimism. No matter what position one takes, however, nobody would
deny that Trini Triggs' most charismatic quality is his tremendous
talent. Born and reared in the Southern hamlet of a Natchitoches
(pronounced NACK-a-tish), Louisiana. While in high school, Trini
started playing in dance bands with his friends. Eventually, Trini
found himself performing a regular Friday and Saturday night stint
at Mariner's Seafood Restaurant. While there, he came to the
attention of a successful local businessman by the name of John Earl
Roe. In 1991 John Earl liked what he saw and soon became Trini's
manager. In 1996 Trini and John Earl met Herbert Graham, Owner of
the nationally famous Denim & Diamonds chain and Graham Central
Station entertainment complexes. Herbert became Trini's co-manager
to complete this great team. Trini's self titled debut album was
produced by Chuck Howard and Anthony Smith for MCG / Curb. Featuring
the infectious two-step tune, "Straight Tequila" and the
rollicking "Shake the Dice" (which he co-wrote) and ballads, such as
a "Heart like Hers" and "Autumn Leaves", Trini says this album is a
true reflection of his musical roots. Trini's Idols: Lionel Ritchie,
The Commodores, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, and especially Charlie
Pride who sang the duet, "One Mississippi, Two Mississippi" with
Trini. Besides music, the other great obsession in Trini's life is
his love of working out.


BOBBY TOMBERLIN
2002 Grammy, CMA, and ACM nominee Bobby Tomberlin hails from
Luverne, AL. At 12 years of age he began working in country radio
and began to develop a love for its music. In 1990 Bobby moved to
Nashville to focus on a career as a writer and has had great success
including singles by Daryl Worley, Chely Wright, Diamond Rio, Ty
Herndon, and Lee Greenwood. Bobbys songs have received 5 BMI awards
and he wrote the ..1 single and CMA, ACM, and Grammy nominated One
More Day and also co-authored the inspirational book by the same
name. Other artists whom have cut his songs include Faith Hill,
Terri Clark, Loretta Lynn, Kenny Rogers, Joe Diffie, Eddy Arnold,
Billy Dean, Rodney Atkins and Deana Carter, and his songs have been
on four Diamond Rio albums. Bobby Tomberlin works with such diverse
writers as Mac Davis, Rivers Rutherford, Steve Dorff, Bill Anderson,
Paul Overstreet, Steven Dale Jones, Paul Williams, Hal Ketchum, and
Phil Everly.


WALT WILKINS
Walt Wilkins moved to Nashville from Austin, Texas in 1994. A
regular favorite at the Bluebird Cafe, Walt continues to get rave
reviews with his band, as a solo performer, and as a writer. Walt
wrote "Big Hopes", the title cut of Ty Herndon's 2000 release and
Walt Wilkins was named 2002 Texas Songwriter Of The Year at the
Texas Music Awards in Gruene, TX. He has had cuts by Kenny Rogers,
Pam Tillis, Ricky Skaggs, Lorrie Morgan, and Sammy Kershaw. Walt has
had eight cuts by Pat Green including his debut Universal South
single, "Carry On". Some of his co-writers include Billy Montana,
Hal Ketchum, Phil Vassar, Warren Brothers, Victor Mecyssne, Jim
McBride, and Jon Randall.


NICOLE WITT
Nicole Witt grew up in a musical family in Springfield, Missouri and
began to play the fiddle in third grade. By high school she was
writing and performing her own compositions and she was recognized
as a four year all-state violinist and Missouri's representative to
the National High School Orchestra performing at the Kennedy Center
in Washington D.C. Nicole went on to receive a music degree from the
University of Missouri. In 1998 Nicole moved to Nashville to focus
on a career as a writer and has had great success including the
current single by Terri Clark (She Didn't Have Time�) Other artists
whom have cut her songs include Vince Gill, Diamond Rio, Richie
Jones, Amber Dotson, Amy Grant, Rodney Atkins, The Kinleys and
Lauren Lucas. Nicole is committed to her passion for music. "There
has never been a period of time when music wasn't the focus of my
life. This is the only thing I have ever wanted to do. There is no
plan B. It has truly been a blessing and I'm excited about seeing
where it takes me next." Nicole Witt works with such diverse writers
as Doug Johnson, Lisa Carver, Jamey Johnson, and Bobby Tomberlin.
Nicole writes on piano and is an accomplished vocalist and fiddle
player.

URL:
http://www.myspace.com/curbmusicpublishing

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

10 Steps to the music business.....
by Greeendragon
www.myspace.com/gdr
http://tinyurl.com/8lnub

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Seven Thoughts to Arm Yourself With in 2006

http://www.clickz.com/experts/crm/traffic/article.php/3573016

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Schuyler Fisk is the calm before the storm. Fresh, free spirited
and right to the point, her lyrics just roll off your tongue like
everyday conversation. Truly a talent worth braking for."

-Linda Perry

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Nashville Songwriters and Guitar
http://groups.myspace.com/index.cfm?
fuseaction=groups.groupProfile&groupid=100002681

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

MerleFest 2006 - Chris Austin Songwriting Contest

Submission Deadline: March 4, 2006
Price: $25.00

Have your songs heard by a panel of professional songwriters and
other music industry professionals from the Nashville Music
Community and earn the chance to perform at MerleFest, the Americana
music celebration, by entering the 14th annual Chris Austin
Songwriting Contest. MerleFest now involves more than 80,000
participants including some 100 artists and bands that perform on
one or more of the festival's thirteen stages. Entrants must submit
songs in one of four categories   country, bluegrass, gospel, and
general.

More Info: http://www.merlefest.org

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Happy Holidays and
Write On,

Ande

Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you well.

There's some great stuff in this issue.

Happy Holidays and I hope you enjoy it and benefit from it.

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


The Recipient of the
IFS Old Number 9 Eliza Gilkyson Workshop Scholarship is:

Recipient   Laura Giammona

The runners up
Runner up   Rachel Harrington
2nd runner up  Jo Ann Wells
3rd runner up Libby Farris
4th runner up  Kit Holmes

All applicants are invited to attend the Saturday night performance
and campfire.

If the scholarship recipient can't attend the event,
runner up will attend
if runner up can't attend,
2nd runner up attends and so on

This Scholarship is a use it or lose it opportunity

Recipient must provide her own travel to and from the event.

Old No. 9 offered a $100 scholarship to each runner up.

There's still time to sign up for the workshop, contact Kricket for
details

www.oldno9.org

Thanks to
The Old Number 9
Kricket
the judges and
those who applied

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

How'd your Treasure Hunt go?
did you find any unclaimed property?

http://www.unclaimed.org

The link to the Texas site is
https://txcpa.cpa.state.tx.us/up/Search.jsp

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Nov. 25, 2005 Songwriter Jerry Lynn Williams passed away at age 57
of kidney and liver failure on the Caribbean island of St. Martin.
He wrote songs for Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt and B.B. King.

He wrote "Running on Faith," "Real Man" and "Standing on the Edge of
Love"

The Los Angeles Times dubbed Williams the most successful unknown
songwriter in rock and rhythm and blues.
His songs -- "Pretending," "Anything for Your Love," "Running on
Faith," "No Alibis" and "Breaking Point" -- were on Clapton's
1989 "Journeyman" album. The same year, his "Real Man" and "I Will
Not Be Denied" were on Raitt's Grammy Award-winning album, "Nick of
Time."

Williams also contributed five songs to King's 1992 album, "King of
the Blues" and wrote "The Hard Way" for Clint Black and Delbert
McClinton's signature song, "Givin' It Up for Your Love," the Times
said

He also collaborated with Stevie Ray and Jimmie Vaughan on "Tick
Tock."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ever Hear of Songs from the Neighborhood?

It's nominated for a Grammy in the Best Musical Album for Children.

The CD
A starry musical tribute to   the amazing song- writing    talents
of Mister Fred  Rogers featuring some of the   nation's most loved
artist.

The DVD
  "The making of" DVD, included as a bonus, features artists
performing their song, candid interviews, and stories about their
fondest memories of Mister Rogers.


SONGS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD: A Musical Journey

It all begins with a song. For producer/composer Dennis Scott. It
began when he was watching Mister Rogers performing one of his songs
on his PBS children's series. "I was taken by the engaging lyric and
deceptively complex melody." Dennis was surprised to learn that Fred
Rogers was the composer of all the songs on his program and that no
major recording artist had ever covered his material. That set the
wheels into motion for a two year labor of love.
Dennis wanted to create an album that would feature well known
singers performing new arrangements of Fred Rogers songs. The first
step was to get permission from Family Communications Inc., Fred's
non-profit company. "Understandably, they were hesitant at first. I
appreciated the fact that I was asking them to entrust Mister
Rogers' musical treasures to a virtual stranger." Time passed but
the talks continued and eventually FCI agreed to allow Dennis to
proceed with the recording.

The months that followed consisted of a flurry of phone calls to
just about every major recording star in the industry. A number were
interested but scheduling prevented them from participating. Many
requests to artists' managers went into what Dennis describes
as "the black hole" - packages were lost or misplaced, phone calls
were unreturned and, perhaps, ignored. However, those artists who
understood the importance of Mister Rogers' work were eager to get
on board.

BJ Thomas was among the first artists to commit to the project. He
already knew that he wanted to sing Fred Rogers' closing
theme, "It's Such a Good Feeling." Dennis gave each artist the
opportunity to pick their favorite Mister Rogers song. One by one,
the artists made their selections. "Trying to accommodate everyone
was sort of like doing a jigsaw puzzle," said Dennis. Some artists
were more "hands on" than others. There was also the occasional left
curve. For example, "Ricky Skaggs and I had decided upon a
song, but the night before the recording session he decided to go
with a different tune. Which turned out to be the best choice after
all."

Meanwhile, SONGS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD, whose title Dennis had come
up with early in the project, was still an album without a home.
Every major record label in the US was contacted and while there
were some near deals, no one was willing to commit. Eventually
Dennis re-connected with an old friend and colleague, Joseph
Porrello. Joey was a consultant for MediaNet Group Technologies Inc,
a Florida based company who had recently acquired the rights to the
Howdy Doody videos. It was a perfect fit. SFTN would be the first CD
to be released under Media's subsidiary, Memory Lane Syndication,
Inc.

With the financial backing in place, Dennis dove into the recording
process beginning with tracks for Amy Grant, BJ Thomas, Crystal
Gayle, John Pizzarelli, and Bobby Caldwell. "This album is unique,"
said Dennis, "And we wanted nothing but the best players in town."
Of course, there were still bumps in the road. It was difficult to
get to the artists themselves to get their approval or input. Dennis
recalls, "We weren't sure about the key for Amy Grant's song until
late the night before. And when Donna Summer walked into the studio,
I was holding my breath to see if she was okay with the track we had
prepared for her. In the end, all of the artists were complete
professionals and gave absolutely stunning performances."
There are some things the public may never get to hear including a
complete Spanish version of "It's a Beautiful Day in the
Neighborhood" sung by Jon Secada. A track including strings was
prepared for Latin recording artist Carlos Ponce, but because of how
the project came together, there was no room for another ballad on
the album. Grammy winner Alison Krauss had expressed interest in
participating, but her touring schedule left her with no time to
record an outside project.

According to Dennis Scott, The most poignant moment came when we
putting together the tribute song to Mister Rogers, "Thank You For
Being You." There was no way to coordinate a time to bring everyone
together, so each artist had to record his or her line separately.
When I finally heard the mix with all the voices, it was quite an
emotional moment."

The only thing that could possibly top that was a phone call from
Joanne Rogers, the widow of Fred Rogers. She told Dennis, "I can't
even tell you how full my heart is right now. He (Fred) would love
it. I love every song with all my heart."

And, as Dennis says, "that makes the journey all worthwhile.."


"The simple, catchy tunes pass along life lessons."
- Working Mother Magazine

"A fantastic CD. You will want to sing along."
- Family Approved Seal, Dove Foundation

"An ensemble tribute to the gentle songwriting of Fred Rogers."
- Pittsburgh Magazine

"Fun collection of confidence boosting classics."
- Parenting Magazine

"Call it Mister Rogers' coming of age."
- Associated Press

"Mister Rogers may be gone, but the songs from his neighborhood live
on."
- Nashville Tennessean


" It was such a wonderful experience to hear this recording - I
loved every single song. The thing that touches
me most is all the love and hard work that must have gone into
making it. I wish I could give a great big hug
to everyone involved. The only frustration is that Fred is not here
to listen to these songs with me, though I
believe his love is with all of us as we try to carry on his
legacy. "Thank you" doesn't begin to express how much I appreciate
your gifts of talent and artistry!"
- Joanne Rogers (Mrs. Fred Rogers)

http://www.songsfromtheneighborhood.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~


An IFS reader asked me

Quick question:  do you use a specific production company to sell
your music?  I am trying to find a company that will handle all the
CD sales, I know about some of them, but not sure which is the best
for a small scale, and what price is reasonable.  Most want a
percentage of CD sales.
What do you suggest?

IFS readers do you have any suggestions?

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Recording Academy invites you to take advantage of an exclusive
registration discount to the ASCAP "I Create Music" EXPO, the first
and only major entertainment industry conference 100% dedicated to
songwriting and composing, which will take place April 20 - 22, 2006
in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Renaissance Hotel. Recording Academy
members can register for the conference at the low price of $250
that's $145 off the regular cost of registration!  The ASCAP I
Create Music EXPO is open to all music creators and industry
professionals, regardless of affiliation.

Plus, as a special limited time bonus, early registrants will be
given the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one mentoring session
with a hit songwriter, a composer, a music publisher, a record
company executive, a Film/TV music executive or a music attorney.

The ASCAP "I Create Music" EXPO is a must-attend event for all music
professionals who are working to achieve greater success. The EXPO
will feature a host of exciting career-boosting panels, genre-
specific workshops, master classes, celebrity keynotes, state-of-the
art technology demonstrations, musical performances, networking
events and more.  The EXPO is custom designed for music creators of
all genres to gain the knowledge, tools and contacts to maximize
their success and inspire their work. It is open to all music
creators who are serious about their craft and career, as well as
the music industry professionals who support them.  As an
organization of songwriters, composers and publishers, ASCAP
understands the opportunities and challenges that face todays music
creators better than anyone.

ASCAP has already confirmed some stellar songwriters, composers and
producers as panelists, including:

Alan & Marilyn Bergman ("The Way We Were," "The Windmills of Your
Mind")
Glen Ballard ("Man in the Mirror," "The Space Between")
Obie Bermudez ("Antes," "Todo El A")
Stephen Bray ("Express Yourself," "Into the Groove")
Bruce Broughton (Silverado, Warm Springs)
Desmond Child ("Dude (Looks Like A Lady)," "Livin' La Vida Loca")
Hal David ("Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head," "Close to You")
George Duke  ("T-Jam," "No Rhyme, No Reason")
Barry Eastmond (You Are My Lady, I Apologize)
Mike Elizondo ("In Da Club," "Let Me Blow Ya Mind")
Michael Giacchino (Lost, The Incredibles)
Wayland Holyfield ("Could I Have This Dance," "You're My Best
Friend")
James Newton Howard (Batman Begins, The Sixth Sense)
Jimmy Jam ("No More Drama," "That's the Way Love Goes")
The Dust Brothers' John King (Fight Club, "Where It's At")
Johnny Mandel ("The Shadow of Your Smile," "A Time For Love")
Mary Mary (Shackles (Praise You),Heaven)
Rick Nowels ("The Game of Love," "White Flag")
Stephen Paulus (Opera: The Postman Always Rings Twice)
Rudy Perez ("Pero Me Acuerdo De Ti," "Vivir Lo Nuestro")
Linda Perry ("Beautiful," "Get the Party Started")
DJ Quik ("Mercedez Benz," "Get Down")
John Rich ("Mississippi Girl," "Redneck Woman")
Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell)
Jill Scott ("Golden," "Cross My Mind")
John Shanks ("Pieces of Me," "Somebody Like You")
Timbaland (Work It,Big Pimpin)
Jimmy Webb ("Galveston," "Wichita Lineman")
Matthew Wilder ("Beautiful Disaster," "Break My Stride")
Paul Williams ("Rainy Days And Mondays," "We've Only Just Begun")
Doug Wood (The Omni Music Library)

Many more participating songwriters, composers, publishers and
industry professionals to be announced.

If you are serious about your craft and career, we know you will
want to join many of todays greatest songwriters and publishers at
the ASCAP I Create Music Expo in Los Angeles next April.

Click here to register:
http://www.ascap.com/expo/registration.html

Click here to read more about the ASCAP "I Create Music" EXPO:
http://www.ascap.com/expo

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I now have a 3,800 SF house with 7 bedrooms & 4 baths, a Jaccuzzi
room, very large great room and kitchen. Patio and deck area for
barb'Q's, guitar picking, etc. Located just 10 minutes from
downtown. One road from Broadway to your front door...easy access to
interstates and 5 miles from Broadway....3 miles from Opry Mills
Mall.

I am going to be offering rooms for rent to out of town writers.
They will be able to have access to a writer's room. There will be
computer access in one general area. Cable TV in general area. Rooms
will rent for $25.00 or $35.00. $25.00 rooms will share a general
bathroom. $35.00 rooms will have private baths.

What I am asking my friends to do is to copy and paste this email
and send it out to your entire email list and ask that your listers
do the same. This will help me to get the word out to many out of
town people. I appreciate your help very much. They can contact me
at the address below or at patricia@...

~P

NextNumberOne Music
1010 16th. Av. S. Ste. 105
Nashville, TN. 37212

615-430-9277

www.nextnumber1.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I heard from my friend autumn

Great to hear from you. Things are going very very well.  We are
finishing the Cd in January with an anticipated Feb. 1st release
date.  I have heard of CD baby, I am on myspace:
www.myspace.com/autumnonline  - and the facebook is only for college
students, unfortunately...but I will definitely check in to all the
other links, thanks so much!!

Hope all is well with you!  My website is www.autumnonline.com and
you can hear my songs right now, they are not mastered, but you can
get an idea of the final product.  I usually would wait until it is
completely finished, but I put it up there mostly for some of the
listeners that just wanted to hear a little bit.

talk to you soon!!  happy holidays!

autumn

~ ~

here's my response to her

hi autumn,

great to hear from you

i enjoyed listening to "get a little high"
you've got a lovely voice and the track is well played and produced

glad your CD is nearly done

CDBaby can handle sales and fulfilment for you
read www.cdbaby.net
also get your tunes up on itunes with their digital distribution
http://cdbaby.net/dd

put your CDs at waterloo as well

i think john arthur uses
http://www.theconnextion.com/jam_index.cfm?ArtistID=184
so i guess you could drop by
http://www.theconnextion.com
and see what their deal is

the face book is only for college students and alumni,
you are a UT Alumn
drop by
http://www.utexas.edu/friends/
and get an alumni email address
then set up your facebook site

looks like you have a personal myspace site
you should set up an artist site as well, drop by
http://signup.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=bandjoin

Take Care,

Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Any one using
http://www.lulu.com/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Did you read this article?
http://www.techspot.com/news/19729-song-lyrics-on-websites-needs-
jail-time-says-mpa.html

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ever hear of Urge?:
http://www.urge.com

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Happy Holidays and
Write On,

Ande

I hope you're doing great
This is a very unusual IFS and
maybe my delightful Holiday gift to you or someone you know.

If you live in the United States,
your state might be holding your unclaimed porperty.

As an example the Texas unclaimed property website is:
Drop by
https://txcpa.cpa.state.tx.us/up/Search.jsp

Enter your last name and city
and you might find things that belong to you

You might want to search for
your businesses, entities, and family members
Also check parents, grand parents, brothers, sisters, coworkers,
clients, and friends
You're bound to find something that belongs to someone

If you or someone has everlived out of state
drop by:
http://www.unclaimed.org
Then click on "Owners"
Then click on "Find Property"
Then click on the state you want to search and
Do a search at that particular state's site

Please let me know how your search went and how much you found.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

On the other hand keep, searching for HIT song ideas
They are everywhere.
I found a great idea yesterday in a conversation with a friend.
Have your radar on and WRITE IT DOWN

We are on a CONSTANT treasure hunt.
I hope you find what you are searching for.

Happy holidays,

Ande

APPLY for the Eliza Gilkyson OLD # 9 Workshop Scholarship
ONLY A FEW songwriters HAVE SO FAR,
the DEADLINE is Midnight CST Sunday December 11, 2005
you'll find details at:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/DIFS/message/716

Have YOU checked out songU?
Some IFS readers are PITCHING AND PLACING SONGS plus improving their
craft and making EXCELLENT NEW connections because of it.
Take a free course. check it out
http://www.SongU.com/ifs

IFS READER MARK ADDISON WROTE

yes, I've been to chateau marouatte twice.

Mark Addison
The Aerie Studio
India Records
Mark Addison Music Productions
MAD6
Kitty Gordon
http://aeriestudio.com
512-924-9671

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Dear IFS Readers,

I hope this email finds you well
What's new with your songwriting?

I've been working on several new songs

I have a new collaborator I'm very excited about my buddy Jan Mirkin
the Texas ASCAP rep introduced me to him.

Some one wrote me.
"I LOVE, LOVE your song "Faint of Heart".  Absolutely, that is a
great song!!"



Ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I do believe on Mon Dec Nashville Star will announce regional
finalists. People are getting calls,
Did any IFS readers make it?
The regional finals are in Nashville and Houston.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Heard of the new Townes Van Zandt documentary "Be Here to Love Me"
http://www.townesthemovie.com/
http://www.townesvanzandt.com/DOCUMENTARIES.html
http://www.townesvanzandt.com/
See the film trailer
http://www.ifilm.com/ifilmdetail/2678308?htv=12

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Singer Searching for Songs

Date: Dec/07/2005
By: Dale Deaton
E-mail: daledeatoncountry@...

Title: Singer

Subject: Country songs wanted

Comment:
Traditional country songs mixed with a modern feel wanted for
recording. Please submit all songs to email address
daledeatoncountry@....
Serious submissions only with all copyright and any other
authorizations.

~ ~ ~

joniatkins@... writes:
Hello my name is Joni Atkins. I am a female, contemporary Christian
singer.  I live in Huntsville, AL.  My bio can be found at
www.joniakins.com.  I am an indie artist and I am looking for
original up-beat Christian songs to record a demo and then possibly
onto a full CD project.  The style of song I am looking for is along
the lines of Joy Williams or Rachael Lampa's music.  I sing in many
venues including churches, concerts, retreats, etc.  I do not have
sound bytes on my website as of yet, but if someone is interested in
sending materials to me and would like to hear my voice first, they
can request a demo I have already done of cover songs.  They can
contact me by email at
joni@...
or by snail mail:
Joni Atkins,
133 Alpha Lane,
Huntsville, AL 35811

I would be glad to send them any demos that are made using their
songs.

Thank you so much for your time and I appreciate any help you might
could offer.

Joni Atkins
www.joniatkins.com
-Jer 29:11


~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I found Allison Sattinger on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/allisonsattinger
I love what she wrote about making music, I think You will too.

"Oh Goodness, is this where I sell myself?
I can say I play piano, sing, write and generally try to coordinate
these things in a way that is pleasing to the ear without dissolving
into packaged pop madness.

Indie music and indie musicians completely rule my heart; I think it
is the bravest and best thing to take wood and bone and flesh and
make music from them;

if you think about it; it's really a miracle. In fact, everything is
a miracle. You, reading this blurb about me, perhaps an old friend or
a total stranger...perhaps a music lover who stumbled onto this
page...we are not separate, you and I. Welcome to these thoughts,
these notes, this sci-fi miracle of technology giving you strangers
who become familiar. I have made this music for you and I."
www.allisonsattinger.com


allison I stumbled upon you and I'm glad that I did.
ande

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

here was someone's post at a message board

For an artist demo if you are country, I would consider a full band
demo of 3 songs or so done at a place like www.gcmusic1.com. Some
critic
sent out 10 songs to 10 studios and this studio produced the most
professional demo of them all. Don't bring your own band in, let the
studio do the tracks because they will get the best sound. The owner
is Faith Hill's former music director and I have had several demos
done there.

As far as a songwriter demo, GC Music is the best. Jeff Carson, Curb
recording artist with hit songs to his credit is actually doing
demos there and the site has samples. Jeff's demos sound radio
release quality...no surprise there.

But I have to add, for songwriter demos, I use to be feverish in my
push for full band demos but not anymore. A&R, producers, and the
artists want room for imagination and to imagine how they can slant
a song to their style and full band demos take a little out of that
possibility and can effect the demo in a negative way. The best is a
guitar\vocal, piano\vocal demo because you aren't tying the song to
a style but the vocalist is important. There are some studios I
won't use because they don't use the best demo singers. Pay for the
best vocalist you can afford. Here are the best that I know of:

Julie Burton
Jeff Carson
Darryl Lee Odonnel
Mike Lusk
Dave Brooks
Tim Buppert
Tim Hopkins

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  ever explore all about jazz?

www.allaboutjazz.com

you might want to submit your jazz tunes to
http://www.visionx.com/cgi/aaj/dailydl.pl

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Recording Academy is proud to present music's biggest night!  The
48th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be broadcast live from STAPLES Center
in Los Angeles, California, on Wednesday, February 8, 2006, on CBS.

Qualified Voting and Associate members* will be sent an official
invitation in mid-December. Members will also be able to download
printable Member Order Forms and General Ticketing Information online
in the Members Only section of www.grammy.com starting December 14,
2005.

To access your individual Member Order Form and General Ticketing
Information sheet:
1.    Log onto to www.grammy.com and click on the Members Only
section.
2.    Enter your Member ID number and Password. (For password
assistance, please e-mail membershipcard@... .)
3.    Once inside, click the GRAMMY Ticketing link and select either
the General Information Sheet or Ticket Order Form.
4.    Click the Print button to print the selected form.


Please note that the Awards Ceremony and Post-Telecast Celebration
have been separated into two (2) events and must be purchased
separately. Members purchasing tickets to both events will be
accommodated with two (2) separate tickets.

For the fastest possible service, please fax your completed order
form with credit card authorization to the GRAMMY Ticketing Office at
310.314.8241. All orders are accommodated on a first-come, first-
served basis and subject to availability.

Nominations for the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be announced at a
special press conference on Thursday, December 8, 2005. Please check
your local listings for details and be sure to visit www.grammy.com
for highlights and a complete listing of nominees.

For further ticketing information, please contact the GRAMMY
Ticketing Office at 310.314.8281 or by e-mail at ticketing@....


*To be eligible to purchase tickets to the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards,
you must be a Voting or Associate Member of The Recording Academy in
good standing, having either joined or renewed by December 1, 2005.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ASK ANDE

I am member of your group on Yahoo and I have been reading every line
of every issue that you send out. I just need to ask this one simple
lil' question....

"I have been writing lyrics for five yrs now.
I am a member of Songramp, JPF and Collabration Central.
I have had a lot of  composers say they love my writing and that they
want to co-write with me.
Why is it that so many folks start to compose or co-write, but
cannot be professional about what they do(or don't do) and just quit
(or not even let a person know that they are still alive?
What it all boils down to is .....
how did you find and keep the great bunch of people you work with?

Thanks,
Mikey

~ ~ ~

Dear Mikey,

Thanks for asking your question.
It sounds to me like you are doing a lot of things right.
I'm very blessed to collaborate with the people I do.

I've spent a lot of time
learning the songwriting craft
searching for great song ideas
developing songs
networking locally and globally
cowriting and
promoting songs

I just meet people inperson or on line and If I love their work
eventually I ask them if I can run a few song ideas past them.

Most of the time they say yes.

It's also more important to me to be their friend than to be their
collaborator so I check in on folks and find out what's up.

Over the years I've noticed that collaborators go through phases,
sometimes they are very interested in writing songs and other times
it's the last thing they want to do.

I think it's also important to have an impressive body of work for
possible collaborators to hear. Invite people to browse through your
catalog so they can hear your work.

Don't keep your success a secret. If you've gotten cuts or won
contests let folks know.

Let folks know your strengths and weaknesses and attempt to find
collaborators who fit.

Be a community member. There's many online songwriting and music
communities. Become a regular.

Locally, go to gigs. Or better yet, help get people well paying gigs.

Become an information hub in your community, Doak Turner's done this
in Nashville with www.NashvilleMuse.com  When you're a hub you become
aware of more opportunities.  I'm kind of an info hub with IFS.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ande,

     I do appreciate your newsletter--I think I'm one of the original
subscribers. I recently wrote a song about hurricanes Katrina and
Rita in a "poke salad annie" groove and have been getting great
feedback whenever I play it (but I don't perform that much)--150
teachers gave the song a standing ovation at a BREAKFAST meeting in
Pittsburgh. Teachers who had lost homes in the hurricane came up to
me to express appreciation for making them laugh, cry, and want to
dance.

     I'd like the song to get a wider audience--I'd love for someone
famous to record it and get wide airplay, but I would want every
penny it earned to go to flood relief--to the rebuilding of people's
homes and lives, to furnishing schools, helping children--to
reputable charities (I would of course donate all royalties of any
kind). I don't have the connections to make it happen in a
significant way. I have recorded it on my home digital recorder in a
decent way that can be considered demo quality. I will send it out on
mp3 or snail mail on disk to someone who will seriously try to get it
into the hands of a major recording artist, but don't want it to just
get around as a free track.

     Any help or advice you or your readers can give me is
appreciated. I am not looking for anything out of this except to know
that I helped in some way.

Thank you,
Paul Epstein
http://webpages.charter.net/contrarians/paulepstein

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

here's some interesting old Chronicle articles

steven fromholz
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/vol18/issue02/music.fromholz.htm
l

lucinda
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/vol18/issue08/music.lucinda.html

terry bozio
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/vol18/issue11/music.bozzio.html

bruton
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/vol18/issue31/music.bruton.html

radney
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/vol18/issue39/music.foster.html

shelley
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2001-09-
14/music_feature3.html

pat green
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2001-10-
19/music_feature2.html

dale watson
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2001-07-
27/music_feature.html


jimmy dale
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2000-02-
25/music_feature.html

music couples
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2000-08-
11/music_feature.html


Write On,

Ande

<> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <>
Ande Rasmussen's Inspirations for Songwriters (I F S)
www.SongwriterBlog.com
IFS aims to INSPIRE YOU into ACTION
over 3,800 songwriters, music publishers, artists, and
music fans receive IFS
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DIFS
<> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <>

Please FORWARD IFS to your SONGWRITING friends

If you want to RECEIVE IFS or
If you want to CHANGE your email address
SEND an EMPTY email to
difs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Please Allow IFS get past your SPAM FILTER
place
anderasmussen@...
on your safe / approved list

DID YOU KNOW THAT All IFS messages are archived on
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DIFS/messages

Once you're in the IFS archive, if you're looking for something in
Particular, you can do a key word search

Here's an easy way to find the IFS home page, type in:
http://www.SongwriterBlog.com
or
http://www.SongwritingBlog.com