At the start of undergrad in 2004, people would always ask what do you want to do with your degree when you graduate? I was unsure, so I responded with “Oh I don’t know, maybe a singer.” During the course of my studies as a music major, I discovered that I like being behind the scenes in the business of music. Helping someone else realize his or her gift was inspiring and humbling at the same time. Upon graduating, I still had no clue as to what field of the music industry I wanted to pursue, so I took a break to evaluate and research. After reading This Business of Artist Management, I concluded that there were many directions that I could go in the entertainment industry. While it is not my sole desire to be an artist manager, the sound of it is inviting. Three principles or best practices that I will carry with me on this journey are:
1. Grasping the Basics of Artist Management
2. Assessing the Business State of the Artist’s Career, and lastly
3. Coping With the Stress of Success
Without a foundation, any empire or building is destined to crumble. It is important that like in any career field one desires to go in that the basics and more are covered. By educating myself continuously on artist management will enable me to address issues of all varieties and wear many hats, while remaining grounded and humbled. We’ve all heard the term “Business before Pleasure”, right? Well, in entertainment that is what it is all about. An artist cannot reach ultimate success if their business is not handled and handled correctly. As an artist manager, I will assess the artist and their business mindset, acquire knowledge on what type of business entity is best for the artist, understand and know how to obtain the proper insurance, secure an accountant/bookkeeper and an attorney. Again, it’s all about education and experience. How does one cope with the stress of success? Yes, I know that we should remain humble during and after the climb to stardom but how? I have found that the key to coping with stress is being realistic in your expectations, prioritizing and recognizing your priorities. In order for an artist to truly be successful they have to know what success is not. Coping with stress stretches far beyond being an artist because at the end of the day you are still human. Take some time out and relax, exercise, and get the proper amount of nutrients. This goes for the artist and the manager. It is all about the teamwork
27 February, 2011
20 February, 2011
May I introduce Miss T. Marie
All entrepreneurs gradually reach the peak of their success with much hard work, a business mindset, and a spirit of perseverance and patience. After sitting down with TaJuanna Jones, a 25 year old graduate of Valdosta State University and American Intercontinental University (AIU), and also CEO of Carisma Designs, I found out just how hard one truly has to work to reach their desired level of success. I met Ms. Jones in 2006, when we worked together with Campus Activities Board (CAB) on VSU’s campus. Ever since I can remember she has always been creative, making bracelets, earrings, and necklaces for colleagues using a variety of beads, stones, and other materials. I asked Ms. Jones a series of questions pertaining to the jewelry line and her success as a project manager for the state of Georgia.
1. When did you realize that this was your calling? “In 2006. It started out as a small creative hobby, nothing for pay that I used to make gifts or trinkets for some of my Ls’s or sorors (she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta). I never expected this much success to come along with it.”
2. What led you to create jewelry above anything else? “It instills a sense of beauty, style, and grace to all who wear it. “My line uses a variety of colors, textures, and designs, one that fits every lifestyle.”
3. How has being a young entrepreneur affected you? “It’s all about balance. Yes, I am a product and project manager but in the midst of all of that I still find time to attend to my craft and master it without feeling bogged down. I still travel, attend business seminars, attend workshops, and conferences.”
4. What is the greatest pleasure you get from being a product manager and artistic director? “It’s not about me. It’s about my customers and satisfying them with the custom designs I create for them. If my present customers are happy I know there’s room for more satisfied customers. I love what I do and it shows through my creations.”
5. How does your products differ from any other mainstream line? “All of my products are custom made to fit the customer’s request. Each piece is handcrafted with no one piece being repeated.”
6. Do you feel that the line will advance to an international level? “I would like to eventually have the line reach that status, but the parameters are a little different from a national level. That is definitely in the works for the upcoming quarter.”
7. What can people expect from Carisma Designs? “Number one, they can expect to be different, be stylish, and unique. Carisma is not just about jewelry and accessories, it’s a mood.”
8. What advice do you have for other young people who aspire to be entrepreneurs? “Anything one puts their mind to, it is possible. Never lose sight of your goals or ambitions. Because the moment you do, that’s when you lose focus. Success does not happen overnight, so be patient but still continue to master your craft. Always remember to stay humble and grounded and build a solid foundation on that passion and a path to success will be made manifest.”
TaJuanna has participated in many conferences, workshops, and she also has a booth set up at Little 5 Points Boutique in Atlanta. You should check her out sometime or visit her website at www.esty.com.shop.Carismadesigns or on her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/my.CarismaDesigns. I really enjoyed sitting with T. Jones and discussing her line with her and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did.
1. When did you realize that this was your calling? “In 2006. It started out as a small creative hobby, nothing for pay that I used to make gifts or trinkets for some of my Ls’s or sorors (she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta). I never expected this much success to come along with it.”
2. What led you to create jewelry above anything else? “It instills a sense of beauty, style, and grace to all who wear it. “My line uses a variety of colors, textures, and designs, one that fits every lifestyle.”
3. How has being a young entrepreneur affected you? “It’s all about balance. Yes, I am a product and project manager but in the midst of all of that I still find time to attend to my craft and master it without feeling bogged down. I still travel, attend business seminars, attend workshops, and conferences.”
4. What is the greatest pleasure you get from being a product manager and artistic director? “It’s not about me. It’s about my customers and satisfying them with the custom designs I create for them. If my present customers are happy I know there’s room for more satisfied customers. I love what I do and it shows through my creations.”
5. How does your products differ from any other mainstream line? “All of my products are custom made to fit the customer’s request. Each piece is handcrafted with no one piece being repeated.”
6. Do you feel that the line will advance to an international level? “I would like to eventually have the line reach that status, but the parameters are a little different from a national level. That is definitely in the works for the upcoming quarter.”
7. What can people expect from Carisma Designs? “Number one, they can expect to be different, be stylish, and unique. Carisma is not just about jewelry and accessories, it’s a mood.”
8. What advice do you have for other young people who aspire to be entrepreneurs? “Anything one puts their mind to, it is possible. Never lose sight of your goals or ambitions. Because the moment you do, that’s when you lose focus. Success does not happen overnight, so be patient but still continue to master your craft. Always remember to stay humble and grounded and build a solid foundation on that passion and a path to success will be made manifest.”
TaJuanna has participated in many conferences, workshops, and she also has a booth set up at Little 5 Points Boutique in Atlanta. You should check her out sometime or visit her website at www.esty.com.shop.Carismadesigns or on her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/my.CarismaDesigns. I really enjoyed sitting with T. Jones and discussing her line with her and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did.
23 January, 2011
The Art of Negotiation
We all know how tricky the entertainment industry can be. From negotiating contracts, deciding on artist and management royalty, and legal representation to what concert/tour dates work for the artist, the fee of each performance, and the logistics of the entire deal. I had a chance to sit down and talk with Rob Robbins, Managing Partner of Alliance Artist Management. They currently manage 21 classical ensemble and orchestras, nationally and internationally. And the most exciting part is that I was granted an opportunity to work with them as their spring 2011 Managerial Intern. Mr. Robbins, with his 20 year experience in the industry was able to provide me with some insight on how to effectively negotiate and reach a mutual agreement with the parties involved, without them feeling like an adversary. He explains that, "Negotiation and deal making is a somewhat unique process, you have to treat each one [negotiation] with respect, while recognizing your needs and wants and that of the other party". He then elaborated on Appreciation and Affiliation, saying they go hand in hand. It is somewhat equal to buying a car". Meaning when you buy a car, you have certain features, specifications, colors, interior, and exterior, etc. that you want and hope the dealership has them. To feel like your business is appreciated. "Artists and managers need to appreciate what they are getting and what is being offered", Robbins says.
As I listen to Mr. Robbins over the phone negotiating a deal or attempting to secure dates for one of the groups, I cannot help but wonder what it is like to be in his shoes. I have never seen him lose his temper or become agitated when working through a contract. "Learn how to separate yourself and the other party from the problem", he mildly states. It amazed when he referred to the Getting to Yes book, which I told him that we read also. His infinite knowledge has led me to believe that you can always get a yes from a negotiation if you just "Recognize that you're dealing with humans and human emotions, which tend to be irresolute sometime". After the interview I asked Mr. Robbins if he had any advice to give to anyone that desires a career in the entertainment industry. His response was simple. "If you find yourself in this business, learn how to separate the people from the problem, ask yourself what it is that I can and cannot afford to lose. Identify that and start negotiating".
As I listen to Mr. Robbins over the phone negotiating a deal or attempting to secure dates for one of the groups, I cannot help but wonder what it is like to be in his shoes. I have never seen him lose his temper or become agitated when working through a contract. "Learn how to separate yourself and the other party from the problem", he mildly states. It amazed when he referred to the Getting to Yes book, which I told him that we read also. His infinite knowledge has led me to believe that you can always get a yes from a negotiation if you just "Recognize that you're dealing with humans and human emotions, which tend to be irresolute sometime". After the interview I asked Mr. Robbins if he had any advice to give to anyone that desires a career in the entertainment industry. His response was simple. "If you find yourself in this business, learn how to separate the people from the problem, ask yourself what it is that I can and cannot afford to lose. Identify that and start negotiating".
10 December, 2010
Are Entrepreneurs Safe?
I have always wondered what the world would be like without the entrepreneurial spirit and heart of those that have built and established companies that are now multi-million, if not billion dollar companies. What ignited the thought to venture out and be set apart? How did they go about obtaining funds? What kind of partnerships/alliances do they have? All of these thoughts come to mind and I am thinking, “How can I get down?” I was fortunate enough to come across a video interview with Eric Garland on TransmitNow. TransmitNow offers year-round global programming in a variety of markets, populated by global thinkers and innovative developers. Jonas Woost, a Digital Media Advisor from Canada sits down with Eric Garland to discuss “challenges of being an entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.”
While some entrepreneurs are struggling to stay ahead of the debilitating economic crises, others are remaining optimistic that the money is still out there and creating jobs instead. In the interview Garland explains that the business itself is dependent upon cooperation from large media companies, who are sometimes unwilling to fund small projects. Also, “It is very difficult for us to realize a vision that furthers the business. One that changes and improves upon the risks that they don’t want to take.” You may be wondering if this situation can be “fixed”. Indeed it can. According to Eric, there is “not an easy fix, maybe with a time machine.” If we “align the fundamentals in a group of new industries that constitute the music industry or entertainment industry, we are well on our way to fixing it.” When he says fixed, he is referring to correcting the issues that have plagued the entertainment industry when there was “a lot of dumb money” being spent. He concludes by saying that “In the last 5 years, the situation has almost entirely corrected just by virtue of the fact that when these businesses have declined from a revenue loss and layoffs, has resulted in a much leaner version in terms of infrastructure.”
References:
While some entrepreneurs are struggling to stay ahead of the debilitating economic crises, others are remaining optimistic that the money is still out there and creating jobs instead. In the interview Garland explains that the business itself is dependent upon cooperation from large media companies, who are sometimes unwilling to fund small projects. Also, “It is very difficult for us to realize a vision that furthers the business. One that changes and improves upon the risks that they don’t want to take.” You may be wondering if this situation can be “fixed”. Indeed it can. According to Eric, there is “not an easy fix, maybe with a time machine.” If we “align the fundamentals in a group of new industries that constitute the music industry or entertainment industry, we are well on our way to fixing it.” When he says fixed, he is referring to correcting the issues that have plagued the entertainment industry when there was “a lot of dumb money” being spent. He concludes by saying that “In the last 5 years, the situation has almost entirely corrected just by virtue of the fact that when these businesses have declined from a revenue loss and layoffs, has resulted in a much leaner version in terms of infrastructure.”
References:
transmitNOW interview with Eric Garland from transmitNOW on Vimeo.
29 November, 2010
Giving Less, Demanding More
Giving Less, Demanding More
After reading the article Giving Increases But So Does Demand I found out that just as many businesses, small and large, corporations, and the human race in general are struggling to make ends meet so are non-profit organizations. Now you may be thinking just as I was, how so? When non-profit organizations do not operate on public funding? But the fact of the matter is that non-profits do have expenditures, whether it is a staff or service. According to the Non-Profit Times, “more then 23 percent nonprofits reported increases donations during the first nine months of this year than in 2009.”
Now can you see why I am a little apprehensive about starting the groundwork for my nonprofit? About 37 percent of charities reported a decrease in donations this year, down from 51 percent in 2009. Now, it is easier for one to just walk away and not go forward with the nonprofit, but if you have a steadfast and consistent spirit as I do, then you will find it easier to persevere. Yes, the economy is in a rut right now and the recession is growing intense by the day, hour it seems, but I am determined to establish a nonprofit, generating a profit.
It is all about you manage and effectively use your finances. That is why it is essential to have a financial team in order to determine whether or not the nonprofit will survive, and at what rate. There is a way to successfully run a business in this harsh economy. “About on in five organizations anticipate reduced budgets next year compared with about a third that expect to maintain their current level.” I am definitely aiming to be in that third that thrives off the saying, “Without struggle there is no Progress.” So with that being said, I think I will take my chances and proceed with my nonprofit to be an example for those that are having second thoughts.
www.nptimes.com/10nov/112910.html Giving Increases But So Does Demand
After reading the article Giving Increases But So Does Demand I found out that just as many businesses, small and large, corporations, and the human race in general are struggling to make ends meet so are non-profit organizations. Now you may be thinking just as I was, how so? When non-profit organizations do not operate on public funding? But the fact of the matter is that non-profits do have expenditures, whether it is a staff or service. According to the Non-Profit Times, “more then 23 percent nonprofits reported increases donations during the first nine months of this year than in 2009.”
Now can you see why I am a little apprehensive about starting the groundwork for my nonprofit? About 37 percent of charities reported a decrease in donations this year, down from 51 percent in 2009. Now, it is easier for one to just walk away and not go forward with the nonprofit, but if you have a steadfast and consistent spirit as I do, then you will find it easier to persevere. Yes, the economy is in a rut right now and the recession is growing intense by the day, hour it seems, but I am determined to establish a nonprofit, generating a profit.
It is all about you manage and effectively use your finances. That is why it is essential to have a financial team in order to determine whether or not the nonprofit will survive, and at what rate. There is a way to successfully run a business in this harsh economy. “About on in five organizations anticipate reduced budgets next year compared with about a third that expect to maintain their current level.” I am definitely aiming to be in that third that thrives off the saying, “Without struggle there is no Progress.” So with that being said, I think I will take my chances and proceed with my nonprofit to be an example for those that are having second thoughts.
www.nptimes.com/10nov/112910.html Giving Increases But So Does Demand
18 November, 2010
Music is Nourishment to the Soul
We all know that non-profit organizations are just that, NON-PROFIT. There are no hidden costs or fee requirements to be apart of the organization. So it is difficult in finding an organization that you can relate to without getting frustrated and feeling there are no resources to help fund the organization. Just when I was about to give up and switch over to my back up industry, I found the Music Performance Fund. Music Performance Fund (MPF) is the largest sponsor of live admission-free, professional musical programs. Like my company, it is a non-profit organization contributing knowledge and appreciation of music and to making live music a part of “every child’s life experience.”
The North American recording company and the American Federation of Musicians established Music Performance Fund (MPF) in 1948. Over the years, MPF has sponsored and continue to sponsor 23 music programs in schools, communities, and 7 national programs. The objective of MPF is to fuse together the music connoisseur and the amateur in contributing to the public’s knowledge and appreciation of music. Their main focus though, is to make music a part of every child’s life experience. And they make this possible thorough their 10 school programs, which is in 5 states, and Canada. The thing that I like about MPF is that they enlist co-sponsorship by other organizations. These organizations range from major corporations, like American Express to school boards.
As I sit and ponder what it would be like to earn status as reputable as theirs, two words come to mind: Patience and Consistency. Like HMS, Inc. MPF started small, but grew into this massive sponsor that brings together music and education and impart it to the world for FREE! In my company I feel that instead of doing things the traditional way of educating the youth through music, we can expand to schools and other notable venues to share with the community as well. It greatly affects my industry because with the steady decline of music programs in schools, children are not exposed to music, but most of all the history and culture of music. HMS, Incorporated will use its resources to be seen and not heard. By showing others what we do and why we do it, it will allow potential sponsors and the general public to understand how we operate and that we seek to transform lives through music as well. I was particularly drawn to the fact the MPF not only has an agenda to preserve music as part as a child’s educational growth, but they do it all for free. What that tells me is, that they are truly moved by the thought of the program truly “enriching lives through music.”
Music Performance Fund. http://www.musicpf.org/index.php
The North American recording company and the American Federation of Musicians established Music Performance Fund (MPF) in 1948. Over the years, MPF has sponsored and continue to sponsor 23 music programs in schools, communities, and 7 national programs. The objective of MPF is to fuse together the music connoisseur and the amateur in contributing to the public’s knowledge and appreciation of music. Their main focus though, is to make music a part of every child’s life experience. And they make this possible thorough their 10 school programs, which is in 5 states, and Canada. The thing that I like about MPF is that they enlist co-sponsorship by other organizations. These organizations range from major corporations, like American Express to school boards.
As I sit and ponder what it would be like to earn status as reputable as theirs, two words come to mind: Patience and Consistency. Like HMS, Inc. MPF started small, but grew into this massive sponsor that brings together music and education and impart it to the world for FREE! In my company I feel that instead of doing things the traditional way of educating the youth through music, we can expand to schools and other notable venues to share with the community as well. It greatly affects my industry because with the steady decline of music programs in schools, children are not exposed to music, but most of all the history and culture of music. HMS, Incorporated will use its resources to be seen and not heard. By showing others what we do and why we do it, it will allow potential sponsors and the general public to understand how we operate and that we seek to transform lives through music as well. I was particularly drawn to the fact the MPF not only has an agenda to preserve music as part as a child’s educational growth, but they do it all for free. What that tells me is, that they are truly moved by the thought of the program truly “enriching lives through music.”
Music Performance Fund. http://www.musicpf.org/index.php
03 November, 2010
Being a Girl ROCKS!
At some point in our lives we all come go through a transition phase. Both male and female experience this phase, which is why we are individuals. The term individual simply means “distinct” or “original”. And being a girl is no different, because it defines who I am on the inside. After listening to Eve Ensler’s TED talk Embrace your inner girl, I understand why females are considered emotional “creatures”. Ensler is the creator of Vagina Monologues and also founded V-Day- “a movement to end violence against women and girls everywhere.” She goes on to say that “there is a girl cell in us all.” Now, that is not to say that we all act feminine or have feminine ways, it is way of showing compassion, empathy, passion, openness, vulnerability, and emotion. Most men have been brought up to “bite the bullet” and never to show emotion, but Ensler insists that embracing our girl cell will allow us all to overcome some sense of violence and suppression.
This really hit home with me because from the ages of 11 to 13 I was molested by mother’s boyfriend. I was afraid, alone, and confused. Who was I going to run and tell? Who would believe me? Listening to Ensler tell the stories of the young women that have overcome harsh adversities and mustering up enough strength and courage to stand tall to declare IAM A GIRL, was powerful. She goes on to say that, “Being a girl is so powerful that we’ve had to train everyone not to be one.” Most people think being a girl is all about emotions and feelings, but I beg to differ. Being a girl is about educating, activating, confronting, engaging, and defying. Educating others on what it means to be a girl, activating our courage to stand tall in the midst of adversities, confronting all things that try and come against this movement, engaging in bringing awareness to the issues that affects girls worldwide, and defying all odds.
“If we teach girls to change the verb we will actually enforce the girl inside us and the girl inside them.” The verb Ensler is referring to is please. She says that as girls, we are looked to as to please everybody. We are expected by nature to satisfy everybody’s needs and neglecting our own. We are expected to take care of the house, the kids, and the family putting behind us our well-being, our education and so forth. So as I embrace the girl cell within, I somehow embrace the hope of becoming the woman that I am destined to be.
www.ted.com/talks/eve_ensler_embrace_your_inner_girl.html
This really hit home with me because from the ages of 11 to 13 I was molested by mother’s boyfriend. I was afraid, alone, and confused. Who was I going to run and tell? Who would believe me? Listening to Ensler tell the stories of the young women that have overcome harsh adversities and mustering up enough strength and courage to stand tall to declare IAM A GIRL, was powerful. She goes on to say that, “Being a girl is so powerful that we’ve had to train everyone not to be one.” Most people think being a girl is all about emotions and feelings, but I beg to differ. Being a girl is about educating, activating, confronting, engaging, and defying. Educating others on what it means to be a girl, activating our courage to stand tall in the midst of adversities, confronting all things that try and come against this movement, engaging in bringing awareness to the issues that affects girls worldwide, and defying all odds.
“If we teach girls to change the verb we will actually enforce the girl inside us and the girl inside them.” The verb Ensler is referring to is please. She says that as girls, we are looked to as to please everybody. We are expected by nature to satisfy everybody’s needs and neglecting our own. We are expected to take care of the house, the kids, and the family putting behind us our well-being, our education and so forth. So as I embrace the girl cell within, I somehow embrace the hope of becoming the woman that I am destined to be.
www.ted.com/talks/eve_ensler_embrace_your_inner_girl.html
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