Also in this issue:

Changing the Music Biz

Here's What Artists Have To Say:

Rusty B

River Road Records

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
(A) because I want to increase my income, spread my music around more, travel, meet new people and experience more things.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
(B) Further because I've already played the closer venues.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
(A) More gigs=more pay.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Digital downloads & gigs.
*If you're releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
All of the above.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
All of the above
*Which digital outlets do you use?
CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon, Pay Play, others.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING
(B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
(A) Touring.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
It would be nice to earn more from licensing and downloads.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Indianapolis, because I have a following there and there are lots of music venues.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Hinkle's in Madison, Indiana.
-Drink/Hang: Kingpin's Road House - Butlerville, Indiana.
-Stay: On the bus.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Big Daddy's (Indianapolis), Joe's 2 (Fishers, Indiana).
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
WJAA 96.3 (Seymour, Indiana), WIKI (Madison, IN).
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Ohio River Valley Folk Festival, WJAA Bustock Concert.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$10.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$10.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Great songs and live shows.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
The computer and Internet. Computer for record keeping, making promo material. The Internet for communication with fans, researching venues and other places to perform. Digital downloads.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Live music will thrive because of digital downloading. Fans can get instant music online but they can not dowmload the experience of watching a band perform in the flesh.
*How should the music industry change?
The industry should learn more about music.
*What will help your career most?
More original songs and exposure.
*What is your definition of success?
Being happy and getting paid good for a job that you enjoy so much that you'd do it for free while making a valuble contribution to society and someone else's life happier.

Blameshift

www.myspace.com/blameshift, Syosset, NY

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE Why?
Because that's what real bands do
*Will you be touring (B) FURTHER distance as 2008. Why?
Because our bus runs off of vegetable oil and because our next album will be released in the UK and Japan.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE as 2008? Please Explain:
More marketing dollars being the next album = more fans, bigger guarantees and more merch sales
*This year, where did you sell more music:
Gigs, we toured the entire year.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
All of the above.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music:
(B) Digital downloads.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
All of them, but the biggest seller is iTunes.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue:
(A) Touring.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Much more money and push behind the next release, so all revenue channels will increase.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
We LOVE, Casper , WY, Fayetteville, NC, San Jose , CA, Phoenix, AZ, Austin, TX, Toronto ONT, Pontiac, MI, Pittsburgh, PA, Fairdale, KY,
St. Louis, MO and Manhattan, KS! Cause these spots have some awesome fans and guaranteed a great show!
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Taco Bell (our sponsor/free food), supermarket, coffee shops, In & Out Burger
-Drink/Hang: Drink - at the venue so the drinks are free, Hang Out - mall to promote.
-Stay: - In your vehicle. The biggest mistake bands make is that they can't comfortably sleep in the vehicle they travel in. Second best is in fan's houses who have rich parents.
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Many places have great music scenes.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
The ones who allow all ages shows.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Underground/College stations.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
PureVolume.com
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$8/$10 adv.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$9.99.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
A great live show.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
MySpace.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
The real popular bands will always have kids come down to shows.
The brand new bands will not until they work their asses off.
*How should the music industry change?
It shouldn't.
*What will help your career most?
A great team of the right people.
*What is your definition of success?
Progression & happiness.

Mike Borgia

www.myspace.com/mikeborgia, Chicago, IL

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
Less - due to the economic slump, you have to be more selective. I won't be adding many new cities this year.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
The same distance, as currently fuel costs are reasonable and the demand is justifiable enough.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS
(C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
Less, because of the lack of excess funds people have available with the flood of new music and the loss of jobs across the country.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Brick and Mortal is almost dead. Digital is my primary source. Money turns out fairly well at gigs if the turnout is there. You sell far more merch items over physical CDs at gigs.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
CD, download, ringtone & video. You shouldn't limit your release format too much but pressing fewer physical CDs is a good idea.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Digital downloads & gigs a bit less, as I've noticed people have less petty cash to spend out at shows after the ticket cost. I suggest providing fans with a credit card option.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
Rawrip.com, iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, emusic, Napster etc...
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS; (D) LICENSING?
Licensing, if you can land some deals, can be great income.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Technology is winning and convenience is what the people want. Mainly due to the influx of new bands, fewer people are buying CDs and willing to clutter up their homes with product. Mobile media is sweeping the industry and becoming the standard.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Midwest towns & Venues are still hungry for good music. (There are too many to mention, get in touch and tell me where you live and I can give you some spots). The Midwest is more appreciative it seems. My biggest market is in England. They are hungry for change and very respectful and accepting of american bands.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: I don't eat at restaurants on the road to avoid getting sick and to save money. I buy food from the grocery, such as celery, mixed nuts, raisins, peanut butter, carrots, tons of bottled water. Too many bands rely on fast food to get them through. It's simply not healthy and ends up being more expensive.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
My favorite albums because of uniqueness and quality and depth in the writing:
Scott Weiland - Happy in Golashes; People In Planes - Beyond The Horizon; Bruce Springsteen - My Lucky Day; Fleet Foxes - S/T; Kings of Leon - Only by the Night; The Living End - White Noise.
*Where's the best music scene? Why?
I don't believe there is a best music scene. The more lively are New York, Chicago, L.A., Austin, TX. As an artist, the best place is where you stand out the most.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Unless you play covers, the pubs in the US aren't that supportive and I don't play too many in the US. In England you can pick up a gig at LePub in S Wales, The Prince George in London, The Glebe in Liverpool, etc... All pay very well and demonstrate good hospitality.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
WXRY 99.3, www.GuerrillaRadio.com, TPN Rock.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
T rig.com, Reverbnation.com, Rawrip.com, EIY.com
*What is the ideal ticket price?
If 21+, venue admission should be very low or free and the bands should get paid a percentage of the bar from 15%. If all ages, $8-10 ticket price, and give them a $3 voucher to encourage fans to return for future shows.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$10.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Not giving your music away for free. Establishing yourself and your music as having value. Writing a well constructed song that relates to people. If you can write a song that is a direct hit to how someone is feeling and it is well recorded and sounds believable, it will sell and finally, persistence, keep your fans in the now.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Reverbnation.com and trig.com do an amazing job. Reverbnation is helpful because of the interactive and deployable widgets they provide that helps you spread your music out to more places across the web and they offer revenue share as incentive. Trig.com is a site that appeals to a tightly knit group of music lovers and creative types who are all uniquely talented and embrace each others talents. Trig, also uses the philosophy, "You get what you give" the more you use trig the more they help you succeed in whatever you do; but the best tool over any online tool is face to face public interaction. talking to people, building relationships. There is no better way to promote yourself.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
It's only been surviving as of late and until the economy gets stronger, we will be touring less and surviving.
*How should the music industry change?
The music industry changing isn't my concern so much as the individual changing. "Be the change you want to see" I know most people have heard that quote before. I like to focus on making a better me and being of good influence, musically, personally etc.. I feel that if sites like myspace closed down, it would be like hitting the refresh button on our ears. It would help get rid of all the mediocrity and virtual bands spamming and desensitizing users from ever wanting to hear new music.
*What will help your career most?
I think music Licensing and song placement as well as higher profile gigs. you do reach a point being independent, where your ability to grow becomes stunted by lack of funds and advanced promoting to major outlets.
*What is your definition of success?
Success is measured by the goals you set for yourself and your drive to attain them. The goal can be as simple as recording your first single and releasing it on itunes or getting your first big gig, or even selling a dozen copies of your new CD. A good measure of success for me is when new people discover your music and they show up to your gig or learn the words to your songs. obviously success is at many levels.

Chris Chandler

www.chrischandler.org,

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
Less. This is my 21st year as a professional musician – at one point I did 250 shows a year. I deserve a higher fee and fewer shows.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
Further – I will make it to Europe this year for the first time.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
About ths same. Fewer show, higer fee.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Gigs.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
My audience is a little older and would buy cassettes if I had them. I will sell it as a CD for on line sales and at gigs. I will also release on flash drive.

I did that for my 2008 release and sold a few (about a tenth of them) But I have reason to think I will sell more in the future.

*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Gigs. But digital downloads are up.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
CDBaby.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Touring.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
I don't really.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
I like the NW -- I just do. Probably because I have regularly come back there at least once if not twice a year.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: The grocery store.
-Drink/Hang: where ever friends gather. Avoid chains.
-Stay: I prefer a couch and a friend or fans to a motel.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
Anne Feeney "Dump The Bosses off your Back" She nails it.
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
There is no such thing as "best." Where does it work for me? Austin, Boston & Portland, OR.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
I can only speak for the ones I continue to play – see my tour dates.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Community Radio is the ONLY radio. Pacifica stations are the best.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Local arts weeklies – but as they are being bought up, they are losing their importance. It is not that people are not reading them anymore – it is just they are being owned by fewer companies and the importance of putting the music – or art – first is diminishing.

I remember when The Washington City Paper was a good paper
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$15.
*The ideal song price?
$1.
*The ideal album price?
$ 15 – anyone who sells under that is doing us ALL a disservice.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Any "FAN" who is not a paying company simply does not have a job or can not afford to be a paying customer. Let them into your show for free. I have a NO ONE turned away for lack of funds policy.
Next year when you return to that town, that person will be back – with a table full of Paying customers.
I also accept IOUs on CDs, really. I can honestly say I have never had someone not get me the money. Granted – I maybe only do 1 or 2 a month – and it may take a year – but the person will give me the money without me ever bringing it up. Also, they will remember the nicety and buy more.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
GPS. I wish I could say the Electronic press release – but I swear I got better press when I mailed them in rather than emailing them.
*How should the music industry change?
Musician's collectives. Let's face it – WE are the music industry. We should work in solidarity.
*What will help your career most?
A hit.
*What is your definition of success?
Getting an email from a (then) teenager who heard me perform 15 years ago tell me how much it has changed his life for the better.

Michael Griffey II

www.myspace.com/michaelgriffey, Lafayette, IN

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
More. To capitalize on expected album releases and new band involvement.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
Further. For the same reasons listed above.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
I expect to earn more in 2009 since 2008 was a year of touring inactivity.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Digital downloads.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
ALL OF THE ABOVE AND MORE. We are getting involved with compilations and split CD's as well as video marketing.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Digital downloading and gigs.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
We will be providing direct access to all music on our website.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Downloads and CD sales.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Downloads and CD sales will increase with the new releases.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Indianapolis. Every venue in this town is awesome mainly because it's home territory.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to: -Eat, -Drink/Hang, -Stay
Every region is different as far as food and drinking but as far as staying a night or two, Super 8's are usually reasonably priced.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
1. Testament: The Formation of Damnation
2. Judas Priest: Nostradamus
3. Iced Earth: The Crucible of Man
4. The Gates of Slumber: Conqueror
5. MercyKill: The Order of War
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Indianapolis. It's a very under-rated area of the country but it is seeing some of the best metal bands emerge from it including The Gates of Slumber and MercyKill.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
The Melody Inn of Indianapolis.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Our music is not "radio-friendly," nor do we want it to be.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Indianapolis MetalTV, The Indianapolis Metalfest among many others.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
Any fan will tell you that "FREE" is the best price, but realistically around $5 or $10. Certain acts like King Diamond merit $20.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$5-$10.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
If you write something that they like, and you're (generally) not a jerk, they will support you.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
The internet. The accessibility of mass production.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Probably thrive because adversity always brings out the best music.
*How should the music industry change?
They should learn to work WITH the musicians instead of trying to grind them for every bit of financial worth.
*What will help your career most?
Worldwide exposure.
*What is your definition of success?
Feeling satisfied that I was able to release as much music into the world as possible before I leave this earth.

Davey T Hamilton

www.myspace.com/daveythamilton, The South, USA

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
More, because I am going to release an independent album.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
Regional, because I am targeting the southeast region with the new album.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
I hope to earn more, but I don't really know what to expect.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Digital downloads.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
CD and download.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
I hope to sell more at gigs.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
iTunes, Rhapsody, Napster, Daveyt.com, Target.com, Walmart.com, Isound.com.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Publishing.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Less income from publishing, because I no longer have a publishing deal, therefore I won't have the nice salary I had in 2008.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Not sure - I like Alabama and Georgia gigs a lot!
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to: -Eat -Drink/Hang -Stay
Not sure, that is a tough one! i'll use Nashville for an expamle: eat at the Palm, hang at Cabana Lounge, and stay at Opryland Hotel.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
I honestly don't have 5 favorite records from 2008.
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
I am not sure about this either. The business has changed so much. Texas probably has the best scene where original grassroots musicians are actually gigging and creating a nice buzz. Maybe Austin...
*Which music publishers do the best job supporting original music:
I think smaller independent publishing companies are more supporting of original music than the bigger companies like EMI, Sony-ATV, Universal, Buena Vista (Disney), etc. These bigger companies are just in it for the profit.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Mostly non-Cumulus and non-ClearChannel stations. I have had a lot of airplay but no high charting Billboard or R&R chart singles, so it is hard to get added to the bigger stations.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Live shows & MySpace.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
For indie acts, $10-$25
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$12.99
*What turns fans into paying customers?
If they like the music and feel that the indie artist is accessable - they want to feel like they are friends with the artist.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Website/Internet, because I can promote and communicate with anyone in the world at any time!
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
I think it will do better. Gas prices will allow more tight-budget indie artists to tour and people will drive to see them perform!
*How should the music industry change?
Artists and A&R need to become braver so that music is more original. Pressures from pop-culture have forced many unique artists to compromise just so they can make a living with music. Would there have ever been a Led Zeppelin, Beatles, Johnny Cash, or U2 if they would have compromised? Probably not! I hope there will be more original acts and A&R people willing to take a chance on these acts in the future.
*What will help your career most?
A strategic/well planned tour.
*What is your definition of success?
To make a comfortable living in music without compromising values and artistic originality.

Vanessa Hay

Pylon, www.myspace.com/wearepylon, Athens, GA

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
Pylon do not tour that much. Our schedules are diverse and it's hard to get us all on the same page. We do have some opportunities to tour in the coming year. We may tour a little more now that we have flown to some shows and used venue provided backline. This worked out well for us during a test run to California recently.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
We may tour further than we have in the past now that we see it is possible to fly to the distant gigs.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS
(C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
It is impossible anticipate income from year to year. Our goal is to not be out of pocket for tour expenses and to have fun.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
We haven't received a formal accounting for the first year's sales of our reissue Gyrate Plus. I really don't know yet. I suspect we have sold more physical CDs.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
CD, Download, Ringtone and perhaps vinyl.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
I suspect digiatal downloads, but who really knows?
*Which digital outlets do you use?
iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, Othermusic.com and a whole bunch of others.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Touring.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
We should begin to receive some income for Gyrate Plus and perhaps some licensing.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
The 40 Watt Club - Athens, GA: The 40 Watt is a second home for us. Barrie and Velena are the bomb. They give us everything that we need to have a successful show.
Little Kings - Athens, GA: There is nothing like being down on the floor with your audience. The room became a giant sweaty, speaker box when we played a secret gig there.
The Earl - Atlanta, GA: A great smallish club that reminds us of venues of yore. Good sound, funky dressing room, close audience, great food.
The Variety Playhouse - Atlanta, GA: Great midsize venue in Little Five Points. The stage is just the right height and the sound is great.
The Echo - Los Angeles, CA: Great sound, awesome audience, chilly beer.
The Independent - San Francisco, CA: Great audience who are dancing maniacs once they get warmed up.
Two venues that we haven't been to in a long time which are still in existence: Maxwells in Hoboken, NJ & T.T. the Bears in Boston, MA.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: The Earl - great resturant on location-the Earl stands for East Atlanta Resturant and Lounge.
The Independent has a lot of great resturants close by. We tried Middle Eastern. Look at their website. They have nearby resturants listed there.
The 40 Watt Club - The Grit and Clocked are both close by. The Taco Stand is in driving distance as is my house. I can eat there too.
The Echo - A variety of nibbles and bar food available right in the venue. We had fajitas and bean burritos.
Or of course, any club in New York City or New Orleans has great food nearby.....
-Drink/Hang: The Go Bar - Athens, GA: Sooner or later everyone drops by. One of those crossroads you hear about.
The Manhattan Cafe - Athens, GA: Low key, inexpensive. Good for conversation.
The Earl - Atlanta, GA: Eat dinner, drink and then go see the band. All in one place.
Kingpins - Athens, GA: Bowling on vintage lanes with beer, food and occasionally a band in the background.
-Stay: Phoenix Hotel - San Francisco, CA: Has been a San Francisco mainstay for bands since the 80's and has recently undergone a renovation. It is still a lot of fun and conveniently located to lots of delicious Vietnamese resturants. A lot of people there last time looked like musicians, but honestly I didn't know any of them....
We used to try to avoid chains, but it's harder and harder. We have stayed at the Holiday Inn, Sheraton and Red Roof Inn and with friends which can be the best of all!
In the past, Hotel Congress in Tuscon, AZ and Swingos in Cleveland, Ohio were a lot of fun and there was always at least one other band there. I hear that Hotel Congress is still around.
The Iroquois in NYC is still there, but is not what it used to be since its renovation. I hear the elevator is still pretty slow.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
My favorite record (s) of the year came out awhile back and were reissued this year: Mission of Burma - Signals, Calls and Marches, Vs and The Horrible Truth about Burma (Matador). They were and remain an awesome band live and the remastered albums all live up to expecations. (One of the best bills my band ever played on included Gang of Four, Pylon and Mission of Burma in Boston. It's a wonder the walls were still standing after the gig and that's the truth). Followed by: Portishead - Third (Mercury). They've changed their sound in a really good way. "Machine Gun" rocks. Bravo. Of Montreal - Skeletal Lamping (Polyvinyl Records). Upbeat and disturbing. Prince on acid. Hot Chip - Made in the Dark (DFA). Their most melodic and hearfelt album to date. Danceable too. Atlas Sound - Let the Blind Lead those who Cannot Feel (Kranky). One of the most beautiful and yet disturbing albums I have ever heard. I don't know what it is about, but I can tell it is honest. You can always tell. Magnetic Fields - Distortion (Merge). It gets more and more distorted and more and more beautiful too with each listen. My daughter and I sing together on "California Girls."
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Athens, Georgia. We have a really diverse scene which is supported by our local community. We are small enough that it's possible to eventually meet everyone too!
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Clubs like the 40 Watt Club in Athens, GA, Mercury Lounge in NYC and the Echo in L.A. book diverse genres and give a lot of young and new bands the opportunity to open for other bands.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
College radio for the most part. Stations like: WJFC, WNYU, WUOG, WRAS, WFMU... Pylon are also played on some Internet shows.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Blogs.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
It depends on factors like the venue, city and the band. There is overhead for the club and it costs money to bring a band from out of town to perform. I don't believe in anything absurd, but in the $5-$30 range is fair depending on all the variables for a club. For a larger venue, the overhead must be enormous. In all honesty, I can't usually afford to go to a mega concert unless I'm invited by the band.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents from the artist standpoint. Free is good if you aren't the artist. Someone is going to have to pay something somewhere, because it costs a certain amount of money for the music to be recorded. Who is going to pay, is the big question, I guess.
*The ideal album price?
Downloaded $9.99 from the artist standpoint. Others: see above.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
They want to support what you do as a musician and an artist. They like what you do and hopefully want to hear more. They have an understanding that if they give their support,they might get more product that they can enjoy.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
I guess the computer is the most important tool of the later 20th and early 21st century. I can instantly communicate with others around the globe like I am doing with you here right now.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Live music will thrive. There is nothing like the experience of being in the very same room with the performers. You can record the sounds, but they will never ever sound like they do live. The sound waves actually enter the walls, floors, ceiling, people and then travel into space. A special connection occurs between the performer and the audience for better or for worse. Molecules are intermixed. You feel the vibrations. You breath the same air. You can interact with others at the performance.
*How should the music industry change?
It's going to change whether it wants to or not. Things change. I can't say how it should change, but I know that it will.
*What will help your career most?
I don't know. Hopefully, we can continue to enjoy what we do when we can do it.
*What is your definition of sucess?
If I'm happy with what I'm able to do when I can do it.

James Hurley

www.myspace.com/jameshurley, Moorpark, CA

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
I'll be touring more in 2009 because I'm releasing a new album.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
Further. Again, the fact that I'm releasing a new album plays into it. Also the fact that my West Coast route is looking pretty "samey" after four years of 2 or 3 tours per year.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
More. The venues are getting better and the audience has been growing.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Definitely gigs.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
All of the above.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Once again I'd have to say Gigs.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
There are simply too many to list. I think the first album is on something like 74 of them, the second on 50+, and the most recent is just getting started.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Touring and CD sales are one and the same for me.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
There's a difference between "hope" and "expect"....My HOPE is that the new album attracts enough attention to generate substantially more download activity, however...I EXPECT to tour like mad again this year and increase sales one show at a time.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
I enjoy the Pacific Northwest in general. The Portland and Seattle areas in particular. I've found a substantial and ever-growing audience for what I do.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Ralph's, Albertson's, the kitchens of friends. Zero fast-food if at all possible. The economics of touring is the sole relavent determining factor.
-Drink/Hang: I tend to "hang" with people I meet at shows, or with promoters. Social drinking in moderation....again economics is everything.
-Stay At: accommodations provided by the promoter or concert host.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
Haven't really been listening.
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Really hard to answer. Any location that has a significant "scene" is also utterly saturated with acts and is therefor impossible to make a living in....that's why one must tour. That being said....L.A. has a vibrant music community. So does Austin.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Kulak's Woodshed in North Hollywood, CA does more to support independent music than any other public venue I know.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
KCBX, Whole Wheat Radio, various public stations.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Amoeba Music - L.A., Music Millennium - Portland, OR.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$25.
*The ideal song price?
$1.
*The ideal album price?
$15.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Personal connection.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Indie Band Manager - A software program that enables me to organize and cross-reference all of the data necessary to do this for a living.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
I think it will thrive. People seem to be far more interested in interacting with real, actual people who make music...How cool is that??
*How should the music industry change?
Personally, I think the industry is doing just fine following the course it's on. The model of huge corporations creating mega-stars and and dominating the entire marketplace is pretty much over. We seem to be veering toward a more individualized, personal, artist/fan relationship that actually harks back to the early days of recorded music.....(And ironically is the very thing that led to making this industry so attractive to what eventually became 'The Majors" in the first place!)
*What will help your career most?
Without question a substantial promotion/publicity campaign.
*What is your definition of success?
Fame, fortune, and health insurance.

Lies Beneath

www.myspace.com/liesbeneath, Carle Place, NY

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
We will be touring more in 2009 than we did in 2008 because we are releasing our second record this year.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
We will be touring further than we did in 2008 because we now have connections to the west coast thanks to our time spent at the NAMM Convention in Anaheim.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
We expect to make more money than we did last year because we are going to have a much more vast selection in merchandise and a wider fan base due to our more extensive touring.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Gigs.
*If you're releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
We will be releasing this record as both CD and download.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
We expect to sell more music at gigs in the beginning of the year but as our exposure grows the money will most likely start to come in more through downloads.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
MySpace, Facebook, Reverbnation, PureVolume.com, Sonicbids.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue:
(A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING? cd sales
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
We anticipate this to change in the way that the CD sales will increase in a large amount.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
NYC, Mass & L.A. because we've had the most energetic and diversified crowds there.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Drink/Hang: - Hunters Pub, The Haunt.
-Stay: -The back seat of the car.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
Metallica - Death Magentic
Guns 'n' Roses - Chinese Democracy
Slipknot - All Hope Is Gone
Trivium - Shogun
Amon Amarth - Twilight Of The Thunder God
All these albums redefine the power and talent that these bands have in their music.
*Where's the best music scene? Why?
LA. On any given night you can find a show somewhere that has a line of people out the door, and not all the people even know the bands, they're just going because they like to see bands perform. Not many places are like that these days.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Village Up of Lindenhurst, DJ Riders, The Nutty Irishman, the Crazy Donkey, Rebel, Arlene's Grocery.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
K-Rock.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
MySpace.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
For a local show, $5 - $10... For a signed band show, $20 - $50.
*The ideal song price?
$1.
*The ideal album price?
$10 - $15.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
The connection that is made between them and the band. If a band plays a show and leaves immediately after their set, even if they were good, nobody is going to feel connected to them and in turn will not be inclined to purchase any of their merch. If the band sticks around and is social with the crowd people are going to want to support them since they were a really good band and hey, really good guys too.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
MySpace and Facebook. It makes it so easy to instantly let everybody know what's going on with you and when projects are being released and going on-tour. And most of all .... it's free.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Live music will definitely thrive. People are starting to become a little bored with the thrill of just downloading the music and videos. People are starting to want to be the ones experiencing the band again, rather than just downloading them.
*How should the music industry change?
Get back to the way it used to be. They shouldn't be so focused on who can make the next big single and then disappear. They should be focused on who has the talent and drive to deserve something like a contract. They should go back to not being so scared to take risks.
*What will help your career most?
The support of a major label when it comes to promotion and funding.
*What is your definition of success?
When other bands start trying to imitate you.

Jami Lula

www.myspace.com/jamilulaspiritinthehouse, Lake Balboa, CA

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
More.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008? Why?
Further, because I am releasing a new record and plan on going out to support it.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
I have been doing a Sponsorship campaign to raise funds to record my record. I know I will move more product this coming year as I am out on the road. I sing in Spiritual fellowships around the country and they are hungry for the music that moves through me.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Gigs.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
CD, Download & Ringtone.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Gigs.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
A lot.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Touring & CD Sales.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
I have a new CD about to come out. I am producing a Book of music/ charts of my songs. I sing in Spiritual Fellowships around the country and sometimes out of the country. People there are interested in what I do and sing about.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Anywhere they let me sing. I will always sell records because if they hear it live they want to take me home in a way my wife would approve of.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Someone's homecooked meal.
-Drink/Hang: I don't drink - I hang with the people I am singing for. We drink coffee and tea & I get to know them.
-Stay: In a hotel with nice cotton sheets. Sometimes I need some time alone.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
1. Ben Harper - Lifeline: Organic, acoustic, honest, cohesive, heartfelt.
2. The 'Once' Soundtrack: I just got it this year. Sorry folks, I've been working on my own record.
3. Shit I guess I been reading more books than litening to others music.
4. Daniel Nahmod - Water
5. Ray LaMontagne - Gossip in the Grain
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Wherever I go is the best music scene, because I make it the best music scene wherever I sing. Please forgive me, I am not trying to be arrogant. It is just the way I approach my gigs and music.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
I don't sing in pubs. I usually sing in churches and homes. House concerts are amazing. It is intimate, people come out for the music & I ALWAYS make money and sell CD's.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
I have yet to pursue radio. I am planning on it with this new record, Jami Lula - There's a Healin Goin On.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Create good music, be honest with your audience, reveal your heart.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
A love offering. When I go out and do a concert, much of the time we do it by love offerering. If I put a price on it, I usually make less than if I ask for what it was worth to people. Now I perform at alternate venues than most of your constituency, BUT when I am home in L.A. I usually rent a small theater for a night and allow people to assist me in the process. So once again I create the vibe with the people I get to assist me on the evening of the performance.
*The ideal song price?
What is it worth to the individual? How does the music serve their life? 99 cents or a million dollars.
*The ideal album price?
I ask for $20.00 a record; if someone can't afford it, I find a way for them to take it home.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
I cannot say for anyone else. For me, I never give less than all I have. I am always honest when I sing. I never phone it in. I bring where I am at all times to the music that moves through me.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
I am willing to ask for help from my audience. I am accessible.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Yes, it will thrive for me, because I am not waiting for anyone to do it for me. Even if I land a management deal, my intention is to continue to do my work. I have had people step up to assist me in the past and waited around for them to do things. I have learned from experience that it is up to me to keep the ball rolling.
*How should the music industry change?
The industry doesn't need to change, the artist needs to change. It is our responsibility to be of service to the world through our music. Most young artists are still under the impression the whole deal is about them. It is not. Give to your audience with the Spirit of service.
*What will help your career most?
A) A clear vision of what I am intending to do in the coming year. B) Being aware of the steps I need to take on a daily basis to manifest the vision. C) Take the steps. D) Witness and acknowledge the steps I have taken evey week. If I can't see I am making progress in my actions no one will ever make me feel like I am doing enough. If I witness my progress and acknowledge myself, I develop a healthy sense of pride that allows me to take steps when I sometimes feel like I can't do another thing.
*What is your definition of success?
I have been teaching at the Musicians Institute for almost 20 years now. I came out to L.A. to get a record deal and be a star. I learned that that was not for me. I have found my Soul in the music that moves through me. I am 48 years old and I have sold a lot of CDs over the past 6 years out of my trunk, on the Internet, and on CDBaby. Success, to me is making the music that moves through me, unencumbered by the opinions of people who don't give a shit about the music. I sing Life affirming music. It is what moves me. Find out what moves you rather than what you think will be the next big thing and I believe, through your authenticity people will be drawn to you. Of course be excellent, and continue to work on your craft as a player as a songwriter. Most of all, work on yourself as a human being. You are your own success. I am my own success. I love what I do. I get to share it and be of service through it. I am grateful I get to do my work and people sing along. Remain ever open to the highest possibility.

Made in Mexico

www.myspace.com/zodiaczoo

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
A . Less because we are in an economic recession and it is too expensive to tour. People do not buy CD/LPs at a volume that can sustain a tour. The entire mentality of "show go-ers" has changed in the last few years from being supportive of paying to see Music to taking Music as a free gift.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
A. Closer, because it is cheaper.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
B. Less, because overall sales are down and Music shows are what usually sustains us.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
B. Downloads.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
A, B, D (vinyl LP).
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
A. Brick and Mortar
*Which digital outlets do you use?
iTunes, eMusic.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
C. Downloads
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Not much. That is the chosen forum of most of our fans.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
NYC - Cake Shop, Providence, RI - AS220, because people come out and it is always a good time.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Grasshopper in Allston, MA.
-Drink/Hang: Anywhere is fine...
-Stay: In the van, I guess.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
Made in Mexico - Guerillaton, because I wrote it.
USAisaMonster - Space Programs, because it is the best album out now
Marnie Stern - This Is It and I Am It and You Are It and So Is That and He Is It and She Is It and It Is It and That Is That, because she plays a mean guitar and is nice.
OM - Gebel Barkal
Skull Defekts - The Drone Drug
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Providence, RI - because it is like lower Manhattan in 1979.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
AS220 in Providence is the best.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
95.3 WHRB Harvard Radio Boston, 88.1 WELH Brown Radio.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Record shops.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
8 dollars.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
14 dollars.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Having a product which is art and music, a tangible thing to hold on to. That and complete information about the band - people want to know more now.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
MP3 player/recorder - tapes jams easy and YouTube.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Live music will always survive, it is such a small amount of time where Music has been comodified and sold, the majority of the time Music was performed as art or entertainment and that will always survive. Thrive? Probably not, due to other forms of entertainment that foster social isolation such as video games.
*How should the music industry change?
It should cease to exist.
*What will help your career most?
Having bigger bands let us open for them and getting on television in any way. Both of which are a mafia-style lock out set up by the music industry which is why it should die off completely.
*What is your definition of success?
Infiltrating the system and having our music and message presented to many people much like Bob Dylan. Dylan was a sneaky success story, for us that is the only way anything will happen more than what we have, but what we have is near to perfect and very successful by our standards.

Valerio Rinaldi

www.myspace.com/valeriorinaldi, Buenos Aires, Argentina

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
More. I am from Argentina, and I will be playing in SXSW 2009 and touring the US during march.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
Further, because I will add new cities to my show.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
Less. Because I am opening new markets where I am not well known.
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
Gigs
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
Download and DVD.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Digital download.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
iTunes & Claro Music Store (Latin America).
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Licensing.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
Working hard on touring.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Austin and NY, because during SXSW, Austin is an amazing place to be and not to sleep. NY, because I have already played there several times, and I have a lot of friends.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Pepsi Music Festival (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
-Drink/Hang: Antigua, NY City
-Stay: Paris, France
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
Coldplay - Viva la vida (excellent songs), Valerio Rinaldi - Amplificarse (must hear Rock en Espanol songs) & Duran Duran - Red Carpet Massacre (these guys are still live!!).
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
Buenos Aires, because the best is still to be discovered.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Tazz Soho, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Rock And Pop and Kabul (Bs. As, Argentina)
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Faro Latino.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
25 dollars.
*The ideal song price?
2 dollars.
*The ideal album price?
20 dollars.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Good performances.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Digital download, because you can reach everybody interested in your music from MySpace and your website.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Thrive, because in the stage is where you make the difference.
*How should the music industry change?
Supporting new artists from all over the world with ordinary budgets, not rockstar budgets...
*What will help your career most?
Touring and interviews in mags, websites, TV shows.
*What is your definition of success?
Happiness.

Sam-Swan

Elvensynth, www.myspace.com/httpwwwmyspacecomeelvensynth, Orange County, CA

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
A, more. I feel my music, style, influence, image, and performance is quite important to show this new year, I feel it's time to break out. This time I believe I will get the media's attention. I have a whole new "theme" and image....and those who see me will know me as Sam-Swan of Elvensynth!
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
A, closer and C, same, because: I have not performed all that much yet, and sold just a few demos..and consignment cd's. I feel my area, here in Orange County, CA, is a great place to perform, and L.A. and Hollywood are close by.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS
(C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
A, more, because I did not perform much at all - like only one free performance...I expect to get a little for a start, depending on how many fans and "followers" I develop.
*If you’re releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
CD. I would like to get signed...although I know I need to promote more to the record companies. If I get the funds to do a fair distribution... I am still composing and compiling my best songs.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Local stores on consignment...and gigs.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
I will personally make the effort and break out...to my desire.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Orange County , L.A. and Hollywood are where all the stars started out...
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Drink/Hangout: Huntington Beach. The Disney Walk (House of Blues) sucks and the Galaxy closed down here in Costa Mesa.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
None. I prefer a lot of 80s forefathers of Synthpop, like Alphaville. If I had to choose I would say Freezepop or Ladytron, they are along my lines.
*Where’s the best music scene? Why?
L.A. - That's where it's at. Unless you go to Belgium. They have a New Wave breakout there as well.
*Which music venues do the best job supporting original music:
Whisky A Go-Go, the House of Blues.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
I have no clue. I created my own style, a completely new breed of music. I call it "Tek." It is unlike anything you most likely have heard. I would guess if I had to choose, KROQ.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$5-$30 US.
*The ideal song price?
$1.00 US.
*The ideal album price?
$10-15 US.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Obsession, addiction, fascination, impulse, a drive and love for something they can finally relate to...
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Creativity & mood, because I can send the same feeling to others through my music...and having an exact message, and vision through the lyrics and music.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
Oh, it will thrive.
*How should the music industry change?
We need more original artists and sounds, more psychedellia, more creativity, awareness...and we need to cut out the mainstream more, especialy Hip-Hop and Rap...to me, Hip-Hop and Rap are dead and always will be. I don't even consider it music.
*What will help your career most?
Staying on track, robotics, maybe not music, although I do consider myself a musician and composer...I conquered the music thing, long ago!
*What is your definition of success?
Following your dreams...and earning a living with them.

Aaron Lee Tasjan

www.myspace.com/swigtooth, Brooklyn, NY
The Madison Square Gardeners, www.myspace.com/madisonsquaregardeners, Brooklyn, NY

*In 2009 will you be touring (A) MORE (B) LESS (C) SAME as 2008? Why?
C - the same, because I believe that a connection with people live and in person is a very important part of what it is that I do.
*Will you be touring (A) CLOSER (B) FURTHER (C) SAME distance as 2008. Why?
B - I always hope to do more to reach out to people who are either unaware of me or unable to travel to come to one of my gigs.
*From touring this year - do you expect to earn (A) MORE (B) LESS
(C) SAME as 2008? Please Explain:
This is a tough question to answer. As an independent touring artist, you never truly have a concrete concept of what you can expect to make in a year...however, I would expect to at least make the same if I'm doing all that I can to make smart decisions about how I tour (i.e., travel and accomodations) and the types of tours I'm doing (it's always nice to be direct support with just you and your guitar!)
*This year, where did you sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR RETAIL; (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS; (C) GIGS?
I would say it was a close race between gigs and digital downloads...I would also openly admit some of this may be because I didn't do a very good job telling people I had CDs for sale at my gigs...selling things at gigs requires you to really go out of your way to make it happen nowadays. It would seem that perhaps people either need to be reminded you've got stuff or you need to make some sort of effort to hang with them after the gig and make them feel as though they're buying more than just a CD or a t-shirt.
*If you're releasing a record in 2009 will you release it as (check all that apply): (A) CD; (B) DOWNLOAD; (C) RINGTONE; (D) OTHER, please describe:
I am releasing two records in different formats, one as a physical CD with digital downloads, the other is vinyl with digital downloads. I'm simply interested in having different types of media available for people to purchase.
*In 2009 where do you expect to sell more music: (A) BRICK & MORTAR (B) DIGITAL DOWNLOADS (C) GIGS?
Again I'd say, digital and gigs.
*Which digital outlets do you use?
iTunes, CDBaby, emusic, Amazon and Snocap.
*This year, where did you earn the most revenue: (A) TOURING (B) CD SALES (C) DOWNLOADS (D) LICENSING?
Touring and downloads.
*How do you anticipate this will change in 2009?
I'm hoping that Licensing will play a bigger role in my income.
*What are your fave towns & venues to gig? Why?
Off Broadway in St. Louis, MO - love the room and the sound.
Martyr's in Chicago, IL - they treat you like a human being.
The Rumba Cafe in Columbus, OH - Todd Dugan is a really cool guy.
Any venue or show that Shayni Rae Kinney(former owner of Saphire Supper Club and Beecham Theater) is involved with.
*Name the 5 best places for touring acts to:
-Eat: Ruby's Diner in California and Bandana's in St. Louis.
-Drink/Hang: Flicker Bar in Athens, GA.
-Stay: Anywhere that's free and has at least one person in the house that likes to cook for dirty bums that might turn out to be Jesus.
*Name your 5 fave records of 2008 – tell us why you love them.
1. Wilco - Sky Blue Sky: They are my favorite band.
2. Frightened Rabbit - The Midnight Organ Fight: Because even though it's a real bummer of a record, it's sooo good.
3. Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst: Great songs, big nod to
The Heartbreakers (TP not Johnny Thunders) and Conor is one of the nicest, coolest dudes ever.
4. Eleanor Whitmore - Airplanes: She's REALLY good...at EVERYTHING... and so is her record.
5. Pete and J - Plenty Good Reasons EP: These dudes are gonna be huge...I think...but I don't really know much...but they're still awesome and this record is proof. "Lady, Oh Lady." Enough said.
*Where's the best music scene? Why?
Down at Shayni Rae's Truckstop at The National Underground in NYC on Monday nights. The musicians that hang there are really inspiring and have been so gracious and helpful to me. And Shayni Rae is my fairy rockmother.
*Which Radio stations best support your music?
Breakthru Digital Radio, WTKS in Florida and WHRC in Philidelphia and some other college and digital ones that I can't remember.
*What other outlets best support indie music?
Hmmm...ones where you know someone or ones where someone who programs music, etc. is a fan your stuff.
*What is the ideal ticket price?
$7-$10.
*The ideal song price?
99 cents.
*The ideal album price?
$10.
*What turns fans into paying customers?
Honesty, talent, genuine love for who you are and what you're doing. Also it's possible to gain these things via enormous amounts of money and advertising and blah blah blah, but what's most important to someone like me is to just be able to love what I'm doing and somehow get by while I'm doing it.
*What music biz tool/innovation helps you most? Why?
Just knowing real, cool, nice people who work in the music business like Adam Block (Sony/Legacy), John Jackson (Sony), my manager Jason Milner, Rishon Blumberg (Brickwall Mgmt), Kevn Kinney (Drivin N Cryin), Jason Ross (7 Mary 3), Ben Kweller - all these people and so many more who've been so nice and helpful to me.
*Will live music thrive or just survive in 2009? Why?
As long as people who love music and care about it are out there, it will always survive. To me if people are able to see, hear, enjoy, be a part of and influence great music and musicians, it will thrive.
*How should the music industry change?
It is changing. But if you're asking what we should all do, I think we should all try to make the best music we can and try to find people who are excited about it to help us make it grow. Stop making a bazillion MySpace pages and try to know the difference between Tim Easton and some guy who went to a Tim Easton show, bought an Alverez acoustic guitar for $200 and decided he was a songwriter and singer.
*What will help your career most?
Working with good, smart experienced people, making the best music I know how to make, and lots of exposure!!!!
*What is your definition of success?
Making a living writing, recording and performing my own music as long as those things continue to be my favorite things in the world to do.