CNBC runs a show called Biography, which highlights business geniuses such as Bill Gates, McDonald's, Marriott... On my way home for the holidays I was searching the TV late at night trying to find something on and I came across Biography when it was featuring Richard Branson.
Branson created Virgin Records among many other businesses. He has a great inspirational story about overcoming naysayers and at the end of the day "just making it happen".
If you didn't know the full story on Branson I do suggest looking him up. He started out without so much as a high school education and built Virgin Group into one of the biggest and most successful business ventures in Britain.
Virgin was built as a discount store and label like many of the Virgin group brands. Branson said that they look at a business and determine ways to do it better and offer more.
I immediately thought of Tate Music Group during this story. TMG is not the norm but unlike the norm at this time we are profitable. TMG can offer our artists benefits that they can't likely find anywhere else. We strive in offering our artist top of the line options which we are growing every day. Just last week we rolled out the ability to participate in Nationwide TV commercials. 30 second spots for our artist, highlighting the album and their single.
When you look at TMG and compare us to other labels you can see that we've taken the most successful bits and pieces from other companies and instilled it into our business model. In doing so we have completely thrown away the practices that don't make money.
Bransons story is inspirational and I always like to hear success stories from the underdog. His story, much like anyone else's that has risen to the occasion highlights a never say die attitude.
We all could use a little bit more of that in our lives.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Competition Commission Clears the Proposed Merger of Ticketmaster and Live Nation in the UK
The Competition Commission has decided to clear the proposed merger of Ticketmaster and Live Nation in the U.K. The Commission decided that the merger of these two companies will not result in a "substantial" lessening of competition in the market.
A statement from both Ticketmaster and Live Nation indicated that they were optimistic there will be a successful outcome in the US.
The goal of this merger is to create a new kind of live entertainment business for the entire sector.
The push back from other ticket brokers and event promoters is that the merger will give Ticketmaster and Live Nation the power to increase ticket prices, or harm its competitors in different parts of the supply chain. The Commission disagrees and states that they would suffer significant short term losses in pursuit of very uncertain long term gains.
We will have to wait and see how this turns out.
A statement from both Ticketmaster and Live Nation indicated that they were optimistic there will be a successful outcome in the US.
The goal of this merger is to create a new kind of live entertainment business for the entire sector.
The push back from other ticket brokers and event promoters is that the merger will give Ticketmaster and Live Nation the power to increase ticket prices, or harm its competitors in different parts of the supply chain. The Commission disagrees and states that they would suffer significant short term losses in pursuit of very uncertain long term gains.
We will have to wait and see how this turns out.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Increase your Impressions
The strategy in place at Tate Music Group to market and promote an artist has a lot to do with increasing the artists impressions. TMG is able to do this based around events. Which is why it is important that the artist communicate with their TMG Marketing Rep regarding any and all performances scheduled (big or small).
Impressions are references to the artist, album or single. Tate Music group increases an artists impressions by sending out press releases and media blitzes about two weeks prior to all events listed on the artists calendar. These impressions hit a 50 mile radius of where the event is scheduled to take place. TMG notifies all media (TV, Radio, Newspapers, magazines...) of the event and the artist, hoping to draw published highlights. I tell the artists I represent that the more these news makers see your name the more likely they are to print the story.
Tate Music Group has added another avenue to increase the number of impressions an artist can receive by the new video commercials we are now producing, designing and airing on major music TV networks. This gives an artist optimal opportunities to create a buzz around every single event they play.
As you can see utilizing TMG's marketing strategy of creating multiple impressions over a long relationship with TMG is beneficial and gives the artist the best opportunity for success. Our business plan and contract illustrates that Tate Music Group is interested in creating a long term commitment to developing a music strategy. Overall with all things considered this is the absolute best opportunity for the artist and the label. Everyone wins!
Impressions are references to the artist, album or single. Tate Music group increases an artists impressions by sending out press releases and media blitzes about two weeks prior to all events listed on the artists calendar. These impressions hit a 50 mile radius of where the event is scheduled to take place. TMG notifies all media (TV, Radio, Newspapers, magazines...) of the event and the artist, hoping to draw published highlights. I tell the artists I represent that the more these news makers see your name the more likely they are to print the story.
Tate Music Group has added another avenue to increase the number of impressions an artist can receive by the new video commercials we are now producing, designing and airing on major music TV networks. This gives an artist optimal opportunities to create a buzz around every single event they play.
As you can see utilizing TMG's marketing strategy of creating multiple impressions over a long relationship with TMG is beneficial and gives the artist the best opportunity for success. Our business plan and contract illustrates that Tate Music Group is interested in creating a long term commitment to developing a music strategy. Overall with all things considered this is the absolute best opportunity for the artist and the label. Everyone wins!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
TMG Artist Receiving National TV Exposure
Tate Music Group Now offers a brand new service to all TMG artists. We are now creating and producing Viral Commercials that will help promote the artist, album and single.
Viral videos in themselves can be used in a number of ways to promote an artists music, from being uploaded to their MySpace page, to being played before a performance, and even going straight to YouTube and other video sites. Tate Music Groups team of Multimedia Producers will build the Viral Commercial around the artists music, using their photos and album artwork to capture potential consumers and build excitement and visibility for the music.
Not only do we hand over the video to our artist in order for them to use as they see fit but Tate Music Group also guarantees National and Regional TV exposure on major music TV networks (MTV, MTV2, VH1, CMT, BET, FUSE...). TMG is running national and regional commercial spots based around album release dates, events or for a blanket periods of time.
This is a huge game changer as it allows TMG to guarantee National TV exposure to any artist who wants to take advantage of this option.
Viral videos in themselves can be used in a number of ways to promote an artists music, from being uploaded to their MySpace page, to being played before a performance, and even going straight to YouTube and other video sites. Tate Music Groups team of Multimedia Producers will build the Viral Commercial around the artists music, using their photos and album artwork to capture potential consumers and build excitement and visibility for the music.
Not only do we hand over the video to our artist in order for them to use as they see fit but Tate Music Group also guarantees National and Regional TV exposure on major music TV networks (MTV, MTV2, VH1, CMT, BET, FUSE...). TMG is running national and regional commercial spots based around album release dates, events or for a blanket periods of time.
This is a huge game changer as it allows TMG to guarantee National TV exposure to any artist who wants to take advantage of this option.
Proposed Merger Draws Cooncern from Congress
The proposed merger between Ticketmaster and Live Nation has members of congress, public interest advocates and ticket brokers concerned.
These groups have teamed together to launch a site www.ticketdisaster.org outlining areas the merger could have a negative affect on. Key bullet points such as the increase in concert ticket prices and further promoting competitive practices in the entertainment business. US Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ) said "these web sites will give the fan, the ticket buyers, the information they need to understand how they will be affected by the proposed merger as well as give them the chance to voice their opposition to the pending deal to the U.S. Department of Justices antitrust authorities."
The merger between the two companies is somewhere in the range of $2.5 billion.
These groups have teamed together to launch a site www.ticketdisaster.org outlining areas the merger could have a negative affect on. Key bullet points such as the increase in concert ticket prices and further promoting competitive practices in the entertainment business. US Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ) said "these web sites will give the fan, the ticket buyers, the information they need to understand how they will be affected by the proposed merger as well as give them the chance to voice their opposition to the pending deal to the U.S. Department of Justices antitrust authorities."
The merger between the two companies is somewhere in the range of $2.5 billion.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Does the old business model of Record labels still work?
Tate Music Group is debt free! Those are the best 6 words any artist could ever hear about their record label. Debt free means TMG is FREE in a sense. We are not tied to a line of credit and nobody controls us because they have lent us money. I once heard "those that control debt control everything". Pretty scary considering government actions over the last several years, but that is a different topic all together.
British private equity group Terra Firma wants to bring in outside investors to help EMI which is struggling with $4.2 Billion of debt. If you don't recall Citigroup Inc. bankrolled the buyout of EMI in 2007. There are fears now that EMI could default on interest payments to Citigroup, Inc (www.billboard.biz). Not only are they billions of dollars in debt but there are fears that EMI can't even make interest payments on their debt. Pretty scary considering EMI's status in the music industry.
In most of my blogs I talk about how TMG is reinventing the music label business model. TMG wants to partner with the artist, where other labels want to find one breakthrough artist and sign them to a 360 deal. The business model of other labels does not allow them to develop talent. I've spoken to a few artist signed to major deals only to be dumped after a month. Tate Music Group allows artist to develop their talent and honestly take advantage of the "Snowball" affect. Generally we start locally, grow regionally before the artist hits nationally. TMG is proving this model works every day we stay debt free and our artists make money!
British private equity group Terra Firma wants to bring in outside investors to help EMI which is struggling with $4.2 Billion of debt. If you don't recall Citigroup Inc. bankrolled the buyout of EMI in 2007. There are fears now that EMI could default on interest payments to Citigroup, Inc (www.billboard.biz). Not only are they billions of dollars in debt but there are fears that EMI can't even make interest payments on their debt. Pretty scary considering EMI's status in the music industry.
In most of my blogs I talk about how TMG is reinventing the music label business model. TMG wants to partner with the artist, where other labels want to find one breakthrough artist and sign them to a 360 deal. The business model of other labels does not allow them to develop talent. I've spoken to a few artist signed to major deals only to be dumped after a month. Tate Music Group allows artist to develop their talent and honestly take advantage of the "Snowball" affect. Generally we start locally, grow regionally before the artist hits nationally. TMG is proving this model works every day we stay debt free and our artists make money!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Not So Funny Warner Bros Royalty Statement
I was reading Billboard the other day and noticed this article regarding Warner Music Group and one of their artists. Until now I'm not sure anyone has ever posted their quarterly royalty statement on the web for all to see, especially a royalty statement from a Major.
Tim Quirk, a singer from the 90's alternative band "Too Much Joy" posted his statement in his blog the other day titled "My Hilarious Warner Bros. Royalty Statement", www.toomuchjoy.com. His frustration came from the fact that Warner Bros. wasn't reporting digital earnings to him. The problem has since been fixed but if you take a look at the blog and the statement you will see how thin the quarterly statement is from a Major.
Another point to make and we try to emphasize all the time when artist first come to TMG is that Majors want to own you. They want a 360 deal, meaning that they make money off of everything. TMG operates completely different, and we are educating the market and the artist that our way is the best way for all parties involved. TMG doesn't own or want any portion of an artists copyrights, publishing rights, performance rights etc... TMG's contract clearly states that we want to be the sole manufacturer of the product we are marketing and promoting.
The discouraging aspect to artist that sign with Majors or other labels is that there is usually a balance owed in full before the artist sees any profit from their hard work. At the bottom of Quirks statement Warner Bros. states that there is a "BALANCE ENDING UNRECOUPED of $395,214.00". Quirk later states in his blog that he never expects to have that balance paid off in full. That statement speaks volumes, honestly they recorded three albums from 1990 - 92, that's almost 20 years ago and they still haven't made a dime from the record company. Unfortunately there are thousands of artists in the same position as "Too Much Joy".
Tim Quirk, a singer from the 90's alternative band "Too Much Joy" posted his statement in his blog the other day titled "My Hilarious Warner Bros. Royalty Statement", www.toomuchjoy.com. His frustration came from the fact that Warner Bros. wasn't reporting digital earnings to him. The problem has since been fixed but if you take a look at the blog and the statement you will see how thin the quarterly statement is from a Major.
Another point to make and we try to emphasize all the time when artist first come to TMG is that Majors want to own you. They want a 360 deal, meaning that they make money off of everything. TMG operates completely different, and we are educating the market and the artist that our way is the best way for all parties involved. TMG doesn't own or want any portion of an artists copyrights, publishing rights, performance rights etc... TMG's contract clearly states that we want to be the sole manufacturer of the product we are marketing and promoting.
The discouraging aspect to artist that sign with Majors or other labels is that there is usually a balance owed in full before the artist sees any profit from their hard work. At the bottom of Quirks statement Warner Bros. states that there is a "BALANCE ENDING UNRECOUPED of $395,214.00". Quirk later states in his blog that he never expects to have that balance paid off in full. That statement speaks volumes, honestly they recorded three albums from 1990 - 92, that's almost 20 years ago and they still haven't made a dime from the record company. Unfortunately there are thousands of artists in the same position as "Too Much Joy".
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
How to Gain Exposure
I am asked more often than not by new aspiring artist one question, "how can I gain exposure"? Usually following that question are questions like "how can I get my song on the radio", "how do I book large concerts, tours or festivals", and "how can I sell a bunch of CD's"?
Two answers satisfies basically any questions regarding anything to do with the music business. The secret is to work harder than anyone else and to book as many gigs as you possibly can. Do not turn anything down. Jim Halsey has a great real life situation in his book "Starmaker" that drives home a great point. You never know who is going to be in the audience! You can show up and have 6 people in the audience and one of those people could be Chuck Tilley (one of the largest Christian entertainment buyers in the US).
An active event calendar drives larger events, tours, radio, highlight articles (exposure), and CD sales. Jim Halsey has the Oak Ridge Boys booked for 130 - 190 shows a year. The majority of their income comes from the merchandise table at their events. The exact same is true for a band that is starting out. They need to be as active as possible and move as much merchandise as they can at the back of the room. Those two aspect specifically, will draw the attention of industry pros.
I want to close with the fact that this info is not a new marketing plan by any means. We are not reinventing the wheel and this is not my brilliant idea to gain exposure. Every successful artist, every industry pro that we talk to here at Tate we always ask the same question. "What is your secret to success, what sets you apart from others." Everyone from Kenny Rogers, Neal McCoy, Jim Halsey, the Oaks, Jim Mazza, Dolly Parton, Chuck Tilley... They all work harder than anyone else!
Two answers satisfies basically any questions regarding anything to do with the music business. The secret is to work harder than anyone else and to book as many gigs as you possibly can. Do not turn anything down. Jim Halsey has a great real life situation in his book "Starmaker" that drives home a great point. You never know who is going to be in the audience! You can show up and have 6 people in the audience and one of those people could be Chuck Tilley (one of the largest Christian entertainment buyers in the US).
An active event calendar drives larger events, tours, radio, highlight articles (exposure), and CD sales. Jim Halsey has the Oak Ridge Boys booked for 130 - 190 shows a year. The majority of their income comes from the merchandise table at their events. The exact same is true for a band that is starting out. They need to be as active as possible and move as much merchandise as they can at the back of the room. Those two aspect specifically, will draw the attention of industry pros.
I want to close with the fact that this info is not a new marketing plan by any means. We are not reinventing the wheel and this is not my brilliant idea to gain exposure. Every successful artist, every industry pro that we talk to here at Tate we always ask the same question. "What is your secret to success, what sets you apart from others." Everyone from Kenny Rogers, Neal McCoy, Jim Halsey, the Oaks, Jim Mazza, Dolly Parton, Chuck Tilley... They all work harder than anyone else!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Kenny Rogers and Neal McCoy visit Tate
We were very blessed these last two weeks to have to music superstars visit our facilities, talk to the staff and meet with Tate Exec's.
The week before Thanksgiving Kenny Rogers, Jim Mazza, Jim Halsey, Sherman Halsey and others visited Tate for a potential business relationship. Kenny was great! He met with staff posed for pictures before and after meeting with our executive committee on a possible business venture. Yesterday Country great Neal McCoy did the same.
TMG has grown so quickly and honestly turned the music industry inside out, that it is a great blessing that some of the industry greats are taking notice. It's funny to see that their proven strategy for success matches our business model. From Kenny Rogers, to Neal McCoy to Jim Halsey who manages the Oak Ridge Boys all say that booking gigs should be the primary focus of every artist. A full event calendar will open the doors to everything else!
The week before Thanksgiving Kenny Rogers, Jim Mazza, Jim Halsey, Sherman Halsey and others visited Tate for a potential business relationship. Kenny was great! He met with staff posed for pictures before and after meeting with our executive committee on a possible business venture. Yesterday Country great Neal McCoy did the same.
TMG has grown so quickly and honestly turned the music industry inside out, that it is a great blessing that some of the industry greats are taking notice. It's funny to see that their proven strategy for success matches our business model. From Kenny Rogers, to Neal McCoy to Jim Halsey who manages the Oak Ridge Boys all say that booking gigs should be the primary focus of every artist. A full event calendar will open the doors to everything else!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Bands that know how to work!
Driven Cure is a band that knows how to work. They fit the Chuck Tilley, Jim Halsey, Jim Mazza approach that hard work pays off. These guys are not sitting back on their heels waiting for things to happen for them. They actively pursue every event they can book. Sometimes those events take the CA based band to great places. For instance Driven Cure just finished playing last week in Oahu HI at the "Stand for Life" concert. I received an email from them this morning that the show went very well. There were about 600 people in attendance and they sold 120 CD's in 45 minutes. Essentially 20% of the people in attendance bought a CD. That is great news, but not surprising.
Everyone here at TMG is very excited to see what happens in 2010 for the band! www.myspace.com/drivencure
Everyone here at TMG is very excited to see what happens in 2010 for the band! www.myspace.com/drivencure
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Jim Halsey Starmaker
Jim Halsey recently published a book with Tate Publishing called "Starmaker - How to make it in the music business". I started reading it the other night and haven't been able to put it down. It doesn't matter who you are or what role you play in the music business this book is a must read.
If you don't know who Jim Halsey is please google him. His list of accomplishments are way to long for me to list here, but he is probably most famous for managing "The Oak Ridge Boys" for over 35 years. The list of artist he has worked with is incredible such as Roy Clark, Clint Black, The Judd's, James Brown... the list goes on.
He has a chapter in his book that really hits home with me on the marketing side of the music business. So many artist are under the delusion that once they sign a record deal the hard work is over. That is just not true at all. Halsey talks about what it takes to be successful in the industry and one important point he makes is that the artist has to build a team around them. Halsey lists 9 essential members on pg 62 of his book "Starmaker". They are talent, artist manager, record company, record producer, booking agent, music/entertainment attorney, music publisher, press and PR, and promotions.
As you can see the record company is not the end all be all in this business. It takes a group of people performing different functions to make this business work.
Some other great points Halsey mentions throughout Chapter 8 that I think all artist or industry professionals should have stamped in their minds are:
If you don't know who Jim Halsey is please google him. His list of accomplishments are way to long for me to list here, but he is probably most famous for managing "The Oak Ridge Boys" for over 35 years. The list of artist he has worked with is incredible such as Roy Clark, Clint Black, The Judd's, James Brown... the list goes on.
He has a chapter in his book that really hits home with me on the marketing side of the music business. So many artist are under the delusion that once they sign a record deal the hard work is over. That is just not true at all. Halsey talks about what it takes to be successful in the industry and one important point he makes is that the artist has to build a team around them. Halsey lists 9 essential members on pg 62 of his book "Starmaker". They are talent, artist manager, record company, record producer, booking agent, music/entertainment attorney, music publisher, press and PR, and promotions.
As you can see the record company is not the end all be all in this business. It takes a group of people performing different functions to make this business work.
Some other great points Halsey mentions throughout Chapter 8 that I think all artist or industry professionals should have stamped in their minds are:
- Take every gig - you never know when opportunity will strike - always be prepared
- Attend music conferences - network
- Showcase your talent - invite industry pros to come see you perform
- Submit your music to songwriting and singing competitions - Again you never know when opportunity will present itself
- Build your act locally or regionally first - Enlist the help of local media. Home town radio or news can bring attention
- Be persistent - Being successful in the music industry is not easy
Halsey's "Starmaker" is for everyone. It will either reintroduce ideas or techniques you already know or shed light on new strategies to be successful.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Gospel Beat
I spoke with the Founder of www.thegospelbeat.net, Bryon McGill yesterday and it looks like there are endless opportunities on his station for TMG artist. The Gospel Beat serves as a internet radio station who in their 6th month generated 70,000 listeners last month, and a social networking site for artist.
Mr. McGill is looking for the best Gospel, Hip-Hop, R&B artist out there. They listen to every submission that comes through and the good submission will make it into the rotation of the station. His mission is to help promote gospel music. The website allows artist to post music videos, search and communicate with other artist, and continues to operate as a 24/7 radio station.
McGill who is setting up to launch a second internet radio station soon is excited about the early growth of The Gospel Beat.
Mr. McGill is looking for the best Gospel, Hip-Hop, R&B artist out there. They listen to every submission that comes through and the good submission will make it into the rotation of the station. His mission is to help promote gospel music. The website allows artist to post music videos, search and communicate with other artist, and continues to operate as a 24/7 radio station.
McGill who is setting up to launch a second internet radio station soon is excited about the early growth of The Gospel Beat.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
TMG Relationship with Largest Christian Music Festival already paying off
Chuck Tilley, Founding Director of the Atlanta Music Festival and President of Tilley and Associates, was in visiting with TMG management about a week or so ago. Just a brief recap, Atlanta Fest is one of the largest Christian Music Festivals in the world.
Tate's relationship with Chuck Tilley is already paying off. TMG recording artist Regie Hamm and Jeff Chandler are on the lineup for Atlanta Fest 2010. This will give them exposure to over 70,000 people in attendance for the 2 day festival. Check it out at www.atlantafest.com and see who else is headlining the festival. Pretty impressive!
Tate's relationship with Chuck Tilley is already paying off. TMG recording artist Regie Hamm and Jeff Chandler are on the lineup for Atlanta Fest 2010. This will give them exposure to over 70,000 people in attendance for the 2 day festival. Check it out at www.atlantafest.com and see who else is headlining the festival. Pretty impressive!
Another TMG Artist hits the charts
Tate Music Group recording artist Jerry T. Yates finds his way onto the European Country Music Association (ECMA) Top 100. Jerry opens at #65 with his single "If we've just got it on Sundays". The ECMA's is an organization formed in Europe to promote country music. Its members are composed of people or organizations that are involved in country music throughout the world. Chart toppers have been Faith Hill and currently Brad Paisley.
Brianne Webb signed Yates to TMG back in March, and by no means is he a rookie to the music industry. Yates was the winner of the 2008 Roots Music Association Gospel Artist of the Year Award, and had his original song debut at #14 on the Roots Gospel Charts. It stayed in the top 30 for 54 weeks.
Brianne Webb signed Yates to TMG back in March, and by no means is he a rookie to the music industry. Yates was the winner of the 2008 Roots Music Association Gospel Artist of the Year Award, and had his original song debut at #14 on the Roots Gospel Charts. It stayed in the top 30 for 54 weeks.
TMG Artist Lavert opens on Billboard Charts
Tate Music Group recording artist Lavert opens at #22 and #45 on the Billboard Charts. Lavert secures the #22 spot in the Rap album category and #45 in Gospel.
He has hit the ground running from the time his album was ready for distribution. He has made his footprint felt throughout the south visiting churches, youth ministries and other venues to secure performances and advertise his CD. This early movement has obviously made some industry professionals take notice. I received a phone call from Billboard yesterday notifying me of Lavert's charting numbers.
Lavert is out of Shreveport, LA and is not a music rookie. He is a member of the Potter House Church, and his musical goal is to positively influence the younger generation.
We are extremely proud of Laverts early accomplishments and can't wait to see what the future holds.
He has hit the ground running from the time his album was ready for distribution. He has made his footprint felt throughout the south visiting churches, youth ministries and other venues to secure performances and advertise his CD. This early movement has obviously made some industry professionals take notice. I received a phone call from Billboard yesterday notifying me of Lavert's charting numbers.
Lavert is out of Shreveport, LA and is not a music rookie. He is a member of the Potter House Church, and his musical goal is to positively influence the younger generation.
We are extremely proud of Laverts early accomplishments and can't wait to see what the future holds.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
TMG Sponsors Atlanta Fest and Billboard
Atlanta Fest owner Chuck Tilley was by the offices last week meeting with TMG staff and Senior Management. Mr. Tilley provided us with great industry insight he has gained over years of buying talent for some of the largest Christian Music Festivals in the country. One quote specifically resonates with me coming from a marketing background. Chuck said "there are no guarantees in the music business. If you are going to sit back on your heels and wait for things to happen you will fail." It seems regardless of who we talk to whether it be Jim Halsey or Chuck Tilley they all have the same message.
Our relationship with Tilley, TMG is now a sponsor of the Atlanta Fest. The Atlanta Fest is the Souths Premier Christian Music Festival. Featuring some of the top names in Christian Music over 40 artist will perform on 4 stages throughout the 3 day event. www.atlantafest.com
Another huge alliance Tate Music Group has formed is our strategic partnership and with Billboard. TMG is a partner in Billboards World Song Contest. The Billboard song contest is known for exposing new talent to the world.
Tate Music Group is very excited about the relationships and partnerships we are forming as we are closing out our second year in the industry. I am especially excited to see where TMG will be positioned in year three, four and five. The sky really is the limit!
Our relationship with Tilley, TMG is now a sponsor of the Atlanta Fest. The Atlanta Fest is the Souths Premier Christian Music Festival. Featuring some of the top names in Christian Music over 40 artist will perform on 4 stages throughout the 3 day event. www.atlantafest.com
Another huge alliance Tate Music Group has formed is our strategic partnership and with Billboard. TMG is a partner in Billboards World Song Contest. The Billboard song contest is known for exposing new talent to the world.
Tate Music Group is very excited about the relationships and partnerships we are forming as we are closing out our second year in the industry. I am especially excited to see where TMG will be positioned in year three, four and five. The sky really is the limit!
Well Deserved Attention starting to shine on Hip Hop Artist Rob J
Rob J has been a great addition to Tate Music Group. His desire to entertain and his non stop work ethic is paying off in big ways. Rob has been nominated through to the second round of the 25th Annual Stellar Awards. The Stellar Awards are the one and only Gospel awards honoring artist, writers and producers of Gospel music. We are very excited about Rob J's chances to take the award for best Hip Hop Album of the Year.
Rob J will also be featured on the Bobby Jones Gospel Show this Saturday at 11 PM Eastern. Rob filmed a few months back and was just notified that his episode would be airing this weekend. The Bobby Jones Gospel show is featured on the World Network.
Rob will be the first to tell you that successes like these don't happen overnight. He has spent years perfecting his craft and honestly has a natural ability to entertain.
Rob J will also be featured on the Bobby Jones Gospel Show this Saturday at 11 PM Eastern. Rob filmed a few months back and was just notified that his episode would be airing this weekend. The Bobby Jones Gospel show is featured on the World Network.
Rob will be the first to tell you that successes like these don't happen overnight. He has spent years perfecting his craft and honestly has a natural ability to entertain.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
30 Year Industry Vet and Atlanta Fest Owner Chuck Tilley in House
Tate Music Group had the honor of hosting Atlanta Fest owner Chuck Tilley yesterday in house. It was great to meet a 30 year industry veteran who confirmed the beliefs and ideals TMG has in place. He almost guaranteed us that what we do and offer is not available or duplicated anywhere else. Unless the artist is making money now why would any label take a risk on an unknown. The margin for unknown artist to break into the industry is getting smaller and smaller by the second.
As I've mentioned before the music industry has changed. With the invasion of the internet, digital downloads, file sharing etc. artist are not selling the volume they used too. Tate Music Group is a trendsetter and we are blazing a new trail of how record labels can help artist. What TMG offers to any artist who receives our contract can not be done at the caliber we do it, for less than $35K.
Tilley confirmed a lot of points that TMG preaches to our artist, "every artist out there that has 'made it', name any one, has worked their butts off." A lot of what I have to do on the Marketing side of TMG is educate first time artist. Too many assume that recording the album is the hardest part of the process, which it isn't. Once you have a product to sell, it's time to work!
Tilley who owns Atlanta Fest (23 years), buys entertainment for Rock the Light (10 years), Rock the Universe (12 years) and many others not to mention he is the entertainment buyer for Six Flags theme parks told us that artist who sit back on their heals and waits for things to happen will be sitting forever. The artist has to get out there, book gigs, play everything, social network etc.
As I've mentioned before the music industry has changed. With the invasion of the internet, digital downloads, file sharing etc. artist are not selling the volume they used too. Tate Music Group is a trendsetter and we are blazing a new trail of how record labels can help artist. What TMG offers to any artist who receives our contract can not be done at the caliber we do it, for less than $35K.
Tilley confirmed a lot of points that TMG preaches to our artist, "every artist out there that has 'made it', name any one, has worked their butts off." A lot of what I have to do on the Marketing side of TMG is educate first time artist. Too many assume that recording the album is the hardest part of the process, which it isn't. Once you have a product to sell, it's time to work!
Tilley who owns Atlanta Fest (23 years), buys entertainment for Rock the Light (10 years), Rock the Universe (12 years) and many others not to mention he is the entertainment buyer for Six Flags theme parks told us that artist who sit back on their heals and waits for things to happen will be sitting forever. The artist has to get out there, book gigs, play everything, social network etc.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Stellar Award Nomination
Tate Music Group recording artist Rob J has been nominated in the first round of the 25th Annual Stellar Awards. Rob J has received the nomination for best Rap- Hip Hop CD of the year. Rob J released his album "Introducing Rob J Crucified" in March of this year.
Since his release TMG has worked diligently to push Rob's album to the necessary media outlets to gain exposure. He is receiving steady radio spins on both X Tracks and Breakthrough. Most importantly Rob J hasn't sat back on his heels waiting for things to happen for him. Rob is very motivated and has a team working along side of TMG to maximize his potential.
TMG's partnership works with artist to take them steps above where they came in at. Rob J has utilized our resources as well as his own to position himself for success. Everyone at Tate Music Group is pulling for Rob. We hope that his colleagues, family, friends and fans get out their and vote. Stellar Awards - Category #24 Rob J, Tate Music Group.
Since his release TMG has worked diligently to push Rob's album to the necessary media outlets to gain exposure. He is receiving steady radio spins on both X Tracks and Breakthrough. Most importantly Rob J hasn't sat back on his heels waiting for things to happen for him. Rob is very motivated and has a team working along side of TMG to maximize his potential.
TMG's partnership works with artist to take them steps above where they came in at. Rob J has utilized our resources as well as his own to position himself for success. Everyone at Tate Music Group is pulling for Rob. We hope that his colleagues, family, friends and fans get out their and vote. Stellar Awards - Category #24 Rob J, Tate Music Group.
Friday, October 2, 2009
TMG Artist Nish Featured in Music Connection Magazine
In the most recent publication of Music Connection Magazine, TMG artist Nisha explains how she choose TMG as her label among many competitors as well as her experience debuting her first album "The Metamorphosis".
Regardless of who you talk to at TMG or what blog you read from TMG the same underlining principals are in that conversation. Tate Music Group enters into a partnership with an artist that gives them FREEDOM, FLEXIBILITY and POWER! We want the artist to succeed in every aspect possible and we are here to back them up in that process. Nisha said that she loves "the support and freedom they give to their artist. They allow their artist to maintain all the ownership."
Tate Music Group is a trendsetter. There isn't anyone out there offering what TMG offers and succeeding at doing so. Whenever you are a little unusual you always draw criticism. Outsiders don't get it but artist doing business with TMG do. Check out the article at www.musicconnection.com page 26.
Regardless of who you talk to at TMG or what blog you read from TMG the same underlining principals are in that conversation. Tate Music Group enters into a partnership with an artist that gives them FREEDOM, FLEXIBILITY and POWER! We want the artist to succeed in every aspect possible and we are here to back them up in that process. Nisha said that she loves "the support and freedom they give to their artist. They allow their artist to maintain all the ownership."
Tate Music Group is a trendsetter. There isn't anyone out there offering what TMG offers and succeeding at doing so. Whenever you are a little unusual you always draw criticism. Outsiders don't get it but artist doing business with TMG do. Check out the article at www.musicconnection.com page 26.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
TMG Artist Regie Hamm
Tate Music Group Artist Regie Hamm just had his song played on the TV program "Dancing with the Stars" the other night. This is great for Regie and important for TMG as we prove the naysayers wrong! TMG can market and promote with the big boys.
As we grow older as a label we are proving that TMG is a great place to call home. We offer all of functions of a major but we are able to provide the one on one relationship that smaller labels are able to offer.
As we grow older as a label we are proving that TMG is a great place to call home. We offer all of functions of a major but we are able to provide the one on one relationship that smaller labels are able to offer.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
TMG Artist Upperdeck Utilize Local Resources
Tate Music Group offers a contract that clearly explains the partnership we are offering incoming artists. TMG will not do everything and we don't expect the artists to do everything on their own either. For the partnership to be a success it is vital that both parties work together towards the same goal.
This ideal is not lost with Maryland based Upperdeck who signed back in January 2009 and is set to release their CD today September 22nd. Upperdeck is a band that is not waiting for things to happen for them. They aggressively go out and book as well as provide TMG with a full suite of venues we can contact on their behalf. Recently one of the band members had a contact at a local store "Hot Topic". Hot Topic has a program called "local static" which features local bands. TMG and Upperdeck were able to book a CD signing as well confirm contact information at surrounding stores. More importantly TMG was able to contact the music buyer for this region and based upon the turnout tonight, Hot Topic could possibly distribute Upperdecks music throughout the region.
This is a great example of utilizing a partnership to gain successes. Small successes can lead to large ones!
Check out a September 9th article featuring Upperdeck in Southern Maryland News - www.somdnews.com and their MySpace page www.myspace.com/upperdeckmusic08
This ideal is not lost with Maryland based Upperdeck who signed back in January 2009 and is set to release their CD today September 22nd. Upperdeck is a band that is not waiting for things to happen for them. They aggressively go out and book as well as provide TMG with a full suite of venues we can contact on their behalf. Recently one of the band members had a contact at a local store "Hot Topic". Hot Topic has a program called "local static" which features local bands. TMG and Upperdeck were able to book a CD signing as well confirm contact information at surrounding stores. More importantly TMG was able to contact the music buyer for this region and based upon the turnout tonight, Hot Topic could possibly distribute Upperdecks music throughout the region.
This is a great example of utilizing a partnership to gain successes. Small successes can lead to large ones!
Check out a September 9th article featuring Upperdeck in Southern Maryland News - www.somdnews.com and their MySpace page www.myspace.com/upperdeckmusic08
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
TMG Artist Driven Cure Understands What's Needed!
TMG artist Driven Cure, a Christian Rock band out of Chowchila California has presold 2500 CD's before their release date. Aaron Hansel a Marketing Rep for Tate Music Group said that "they know what it means to work hard and be prepared for success. Driven Cure is making every possible opportunity a positive one."
Driven Cure's music ranges from soft strings to raging guitar solos and incorporates emotional lyrics to deliver positive and spirit filled music to the masses. They have started to grow their MySpace presence www.myspace.com/drivencure by filtering traffic through their site. Their increase in profile views, friends, and current plays helps TMG Marketing secure radio promotion and venues.
TMG is very pleased at the early successes Driven Cure is showing and more importantly their attitude towards their music career. We tell artist time and time again that this has to be a true partnership in order for it to be a success. Driven Cure just gets it!
Driven Cure's music ranges from soft strings to raging guitar solos and incorporates emotional lyrics to deliver positive and spirit filled music to the masses. They have started to grow their MySpace presence www.myspace.com/drivencure by filtering traffic through their site. Their increase in profile views, friends, and current plays helps TMG Marketing secure radio promotion and venues.
TMG is very pleased at the early successes Driven Cure is showing and more importantly their attitude towards their music career. We tell artist time and time again that this has to be a true partnership in order for it to be a success. Driven Cure just gets it!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Tate Music Group See's the Big Picture
Time and time again Tate Music Group receives praise from industry insiders highlighting our business model, benefits and ethics. Micheal Turner from NewDay, "Being a music industry professional for over 20 years, it's refreshing that a label company like TMG comes along and see's the big picture and understands how to make it work."
Many labels are working a broken model. They know it is broken and continue to work it. The definition of insanity is to keep doing something the exact same way and expect different results each time.
Tate Music Group is a trendsetter. We have major companies trying to jump on board and steal our business model every day. It isn't hard to do but you have to be willing to accept change. This is true in any industry, those that don't accept change fail. For the most part the more technology that is brought to industry is slowly bankrupting the music labels that solely rely on name recognition and album sales to generate revenue. Let's face it this isn't the 80's and artist aren't selling 15 million albums a year.
Tate Music Group has created an artist friendly business model where the artist retains the rights to their music and has the freedom, flexibility and power that is desired. Most importantly TMG's royalty structure is set up so that the artist receives royalties from day one when that first CD is sold! We work extremely hard at TMG and that work ethic drives attention. It isn't surprising to me that TMG receives so many compliments, but it is always nice to hear them!
Many labels are working a broken model. They know it is broken and continue to work it. The definition of insanity is to keep doing something the exact same way and expect different results each time.
Tate Music Group is a trendsetter. We have major companies trying to jump on board and steal our business model every day. It isn't hard to do but you have to be willing to accept change. This is true in any industry, those that don't accept change fail. For the most part the more technology that is brought to industry is slowly bankrupting the music labels that solely rely on name recognition and album sales to generate revenue. Let's face it this isn't the 80's and artist aren't selling 15 million albums a year.
Tate Music Group has created an artist friendly business model where the artist retains the rights to their music and has the freedom, flexibility and power that is desired. Most importantly TMG's royalty structure is set up so that the artist receives royalties from day one when that first CD is sold! We work extremely hard at TMG and that work ethic drives attention. It isn't surprising to me that TMG receives so many compliments, but it is always nice to hear them!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Tate Music Group Making a Name for Ourselves Among Industry Leaders
If you call Tate Music Group or Tate Publishing you will get the same excited and enthusiastic response from each employee when talking about the product and services we provide. On the Music side TMG literally provides an artist with the best opportunity anyone could ask for to go out there and succeed! In a world where we are trained to always look for the catch, or a deal is too good to be true Tate Music Group is burning a path in the music industry and industry insiders are taking notice. Jeff Jordan from E1 Entertainment says that "the team at TMG is thinking outside the box at a time when outside the box thinking is needed. TMG's model will give each of their artist's the best chance to succeed."
Tate Music Group provides every resource imaginable for success. TMG provides production, bookings, promotion, marketing, high royalties, distribution and the willingness to work on multiple projects! Tate Music Group offers the artist freedom, flexibility and power. If you are new to the music business you probably don't realize how great of a deal TMG provides. If you have been around the music industry you probably can't believe that TMG can offer all of these services and are looking for the "catch"! Simply put, TMG is changing the music industry, taking a broken model and fixing it. In business you have to change with the times and lets face it, artist aren't selling albums like they used too because of new technology. Tate Music Group focuses on the artists needs first and has built a successful business model around those needs!
Tate Music Group provides every resource imaginable for success. TMG provides production, bookings, promotion, marketing, high royalties, distribution and the willingness to work on multiple projects! Tate Music Group offers the artist freedom, flexibility and power. If you are new to the music business you probably don't realize how great of a deal TMG provides. If you have been around the music industry you probably can't believe that TMG can offer all of these services and are looking for the "catch"! Simply put, TMG is changing the music industry, taking a broken model and fixing it. In business you have to change with the times and lets face it, artist aren't selling albums like they used too because of new technology. Tate Music Group focuses on the artists needs first and has built a successful business model around those needs!
Exciting Opportunities for Tate Music Group Artist!
Tate Music Group artist Jeff Chandler is off on his 11 city radio promo tour. He is promoting his album, Best Buy as well as Family Christian Stores. Check out http://www.tatemusicgroup.com/radio/chandlerKXOJ.mp3 to listen to the audio of Chandler on KXOJ.
Family Christian Stores just finalized a deal to pick up 800 units through New Day. TMG's third party marketing company Key Marketing Group is the negotiator on a lot of TMG's promotion, booking and marketing gigs.
Key Marketing Group also confirmed that Jeff has been added to the artist line up for "Rock the Light"! This festival is September 5 in Kansas City, other headliners will include Casting Crowns, Downhere, Newsboys, Brandon Heath and others.
Also Tate Music Group's marketing and production department just released Chandler's Television commercial which will be released later this week nationwide. It will play on MTV, MTV 2, BRAVO, CMT, FUSE, OVATION TV, BET, VH1, VH1 Video Hits, Disney XD and Nickelodeon!
Family Christian Stores just finalized a deal to pick up 800 units through New Day. TMG's third party marketing company Key Marketing Group is the negotiator on a lot of TMG's promotion, booking and marketing gigs.
Key Marketing Group also confirmed that Jeff has been added to the artist line up for "Rock the Light"! This festival is September 5 in Kansas City, other headliners will include Casting Crowns, Downhere, Newsboys, Brandon Heath and others.
Also Tate Music Group's marketing and production department just released Chandler's Television commercial which will be released later this week nationwide. It will play on MTV, MTV 2, BRAVO, CMT, FUSE, OVATION TV, BET, VH1, VH1 Video Hits, Disney XD and Nickelodeon!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Tate Music Group Radio Promotion
With the recent release of Jeff Chandlers newest album TMG has found many successes through our radio promotion and marketing efforts. Chandlers single "I know you're there" has been added to American Family Radio current rotation. This is a great win for Chandler and Tate Music Group as American Family Radio is broadcasting "I know you're there" on over 200 stations nationally.
As well Tate Music Groups third party marketing partner Key Marketing Group, has arranged a huge 11 city radio promotional tour for Chandler kicking off next week.
As many of you might remember Chandler was TMG's artist of the year last year. Since that time and now with the release of his new album, Tate Music Group and Key Marketing Group have found many successes through bookings, promotion and marketing. TMG was excited about the possible opportunities that were ahead when Chandler won the competition, and now even more excited to see the hard work and determination starting to pay off.
As well Tate Music Groups third party marketing partner Key Marketing Group, has arranged a huge 11 city radio promotional tour for Chandler kicking off next week.
As many of you might remember Chandler was TMG's artist of the year last year. Since that time and now with the release of his new album, Tate Music Group and Key Marketing Group have found many successes through bookings, promotion and marketing. TMG was excited about the possible opportunities that were ahead when Chandler won the competition, and now even more excited to see the hard work and determination starting to pay off.
Monday, July 27, 2009
TMG Focuses on Booking, Promotion and Marketign to Drive Sales!
Here at Tate Music Group we are firm believers that supply doesn't create demand in the music industry. It doesn't matter if we utilize all of our distribution lines and shelf space, if nobody has heard the music or heard of the artist, units will probably not move.
Tate Music Group does everything in our power to create a full album that everyone involved is 100% in love with, but that is the easy part. Now TMG and the artist actually have to get someone to reach deep into their pockets during these economically down times and purchase the album. TMG utilizes all of our resources and spends the majority of our investment booking, promoting and marketing. Tate Music Group believes if we do those three things correctly after the album has been produces then we can maximize the sales potential.
Tate Music Group looks at every avenue possible to spread content and drive traffic. TMG has built iPhone applications which will be available to artist this year. Instead of selling physical CD's only our artist have the option of selling digital download cards at their events as well. These cards drive traffic through the website and allow consumers to download the artists album.
TMG's marketing team is continuously making new industry connections that open larger doors for our artist on all levels (promotion, marketing, distribution).
As an artist and as a label we have to take full advantage of the promotional and marketing resources that we have and that are available to us. By doing such distribution and sales will soon follow!
Tate Music Group does everything in our power to create a full album that everyone involved is 100% in love with, but that is the easy part. Now TMG and the artist actually have to get someone to reach deep into their pockets during these economically down times and purchase the album. TMG utilizes all of our resources and spends the majority of our investment booking, promoting and marketing. Tate Music Group believes if we do those three things correctly after the album has been produces then we can maximize the sales potential.
Tate Music Group looks at every avenue possible to spread content and drive traffic. TMG has built iPhone applications which will be available to artist this year. Instead of selling physical CD's only our artist have the option of selling digital download cards at their events as well. These cards drive traffic through the website and allow consumers to download the artists album.
TMG's marketing team is continuously making new industry connections that open larger doors for our artist on all levels (promotion, marketing, distribution).
As an artist and as a label we have to take full advantage of the promotional and marketing resources that we have and that are available to us. By doing such distribution and sales will soon follow!
The importance of MySpace Music
Through TMG's promotional and marketing efforts we have discovered how important artists MySpace pages really are. It seems that regardless of how great of a sound we have in our hand, every time Tate Music Group is in front of a radio promoter, station manager or booking agent they want to see the artists MySpace page before they go any further. They are looking for numbers! Those decision makers want to see what sets the artist TMG is promoting apart from the rest. They are looking for current plays, total plays, time frame, profile views, friends and most importantly bookings.
As part of my job here at Tate Music Group I have the opportunity to talk to a lot of artist at different stages of their careers, and in general I get a lot of questions about what they can do as an independent artist to help them along. My typical answer is to increase the exposure of their MySpace page! They need to promote themselves and their music. Attach your MySpace page in your signature line on your emails. Direct more traffic through your page, resulting in more plays, more profile views and more friends. If you book an event, you are making steps in the right direction so let everyone know about it!
Tate Music Group focuses on promoting an artist, finding different ways to spread content, marketing and national distribution. We realize the importance of the internet and take an active role setting up and managing our artist MySpace pages if they need us too. With all of the work and money it takes to get in front of a radio promoter or station manager we don't want an outdated web page to kill the promotion.
As part of my job here at Tate Music Group I have the opportunity to talk to a lot of artist at different stages of their careers, and in general I get a lot of questions about what they can do as an independent artist to help them along. My typical answer is to increase the exposure of their MySpace page! They need to promote themselves and their music. Attach your MySpace page in your signature line on your emails. Direct more traffic through your page, resulting in more plays, more profile views and more friends. If you book an event, you are making steps in the right direction so let everyone know about it!
Tate Music Group focuses on promoting an artist, finding different ways to spread content, marketing and national distribution. We realize the importance of the internet and take an active role setting up and managing our artist MySpace pages if they need us too. With all of the work and money it takes to get in front of a radio promoter or station manager we don't want an outdated web page to kill the promotion.
Saying yes to Tate Music Group doesn’t mean your saying No to everyone else!
Tate Music Group is quickly becoming the trendsetter in the music business. As a music label TMG provides an artist with all of the resources they need to be successful. Tate Music Group gives the artist an opportunity for success most dream about, but it is up to the artist to grab it. TMG provides label support through full production, booking gigs, promotion (radio as well as other media outlets), marketing and one of the largest distribution lists in the industry.
Tate Music Group signs artists to a non-exclusive music contract where the artist retains all rights to their music. TMG will provide continuing support throughout the life of the album, giving the artist the ability to leave at any time for a better deal. If a better deal comes around TMG encourages its artists to take it. We just hope we've created a loyal relationship based upon our honesty and hard work, that TMG is given the opportunity to match any competing offers! By saying YES to TMG you're not saying NO to everyone else. You are simply taking one of the best opportunities in the industry to see how far you can go!
Tate Music Group signs artists to a non-exclusive music contract where the artist retains all rights to their music. TMG will provide continuing support throughout the life of the album, giving the artist the ability to leave at any time for a better deal. If a better deal comes around TMG encourages its artists to take it. We just hope we've created a loyal relationship based upon our honesty and hard work, that TMG is given the opportunity to match any competing offers! By saying YES to TMG you're not saying NO to everyone else. You are simply taking one of the best opportunities in the industry to see how far you can go!
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