Showing posts with label musician. Show all posts
Showing posts with label musician. Show all posts

How to Promote Your Music


Promoting indie music can be a daunting task, especially for independent musicians who do not have the resources or budget to compete with major label artists. However, with the rise of digital platforms and social media, independent musicians now have more opportunities to reach a wider audience and build their fan base. In this guide, we will discuss the strategies and tactics that independent musicians can use to promote their music and increase their visibility.
1) Define your brand
Before promoting your music, it is important to establish your brand and identity. Identify what makes your music unique and what you stand for as an artist. This will help you create a cohesive message that resonates with your audience and differentiate yourself from other musicians.
2) Use social media
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting indie music. Choose platforms that align with your brand and audience, such as Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Use these platforms to share your music, engage with your fans, and promote your upcoming shows.
3) Collaborate with other musicians and industry professionals
Collaborating with other musicians and industry professionals can expose you to new audiences and help you gain new fans. Reach out to other musicians and collaborate on new projects or consider working with a producer or manager to help you promote your music.
4) Use targeted advertising
Targeted advertising can be a cost-effective way to reach your ideal audience. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer options to target users who match specific demographics, interests and behaviors. This can help you reach people who are more likely to appreciate your music and become a fan.
5) Create compelling visual content
In addition to great music, creating high-quality visual content can help increase your visibility and reach. Consider creating music videos, cover art, or behind-the-scenes content that showcases your creativity and personality as an artist.
6) Play live shows
Playing live shows can help you connect with your audience on a personal level and build a loyal fan base. Consider performing at local venues or festivals, and promote your shows through social media and other platforms.
7) Get your music on streaming platforms
Getting your music on streaming platforms such as Spotify or Apple Music can help increase your visibility and reach a wider audience. Consider using digital distribution platforms to help you get your music on major streaming platforms.
8) Build an email list
Building an email list can help you stay in touch with your fans and promote your music directly to them. Consider offering exclusive content or early access to new music in exchange for their email address.
9) Engage with your audience
Engaging with your audience is important for building a loyal fan base. Respond to comments and messages on social media, ask for feedback on your music, and create opportunities for your fans to connect with you.
10) Be persistent and patient
Promoting indie music takes time, effort and patience. Don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Consistency and persistence are key to building a successful music career.
Conclusion
Promoting indie music requires creativity, hard work and a willingness to try new things. By using social media, collaborating with other musicians, creating compelling visual content, playing live shows and leveraging digital platforms, independent musicians can increase their visibility and build a loyal fan base. With persistence and patience, independent musicians can successfully promote their music and achieve their dreams of a successful music career.

Willy Kuo's track, "Don't Have A Minute"

 

This is Willy Kuo.

A comprehensively passionate songwriter based in New York.

Willy always has had an exceedingly prosperous desire to make exceptional music. He is strongly experienced with songwriting and music arranging, He thought, "It's time to get musical."

As music is the expression of art, he devotes himself to writing for it, life is art, music is the way of helping people truly get into it!

You can contact Willy at: fefe41412@gmail.com

Links:

WillKuoMusic: https://www.willykuomusic.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxBUpbdLNDYPcgTa03Ckmfw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willykuo_/

The Review - "Don't have A Minute"

This track starts off acoustic, just Willy, his guitar and his camera. Starting off this track with a delightful guitar riff the leads into Willy singing, "Focus, Don't get Distracted...." Willy has this unique way of playing his guitar and tapping his guitar for rhythm, really makes his style of playing similar to that of unplugged Eric Clapton style. Willy plays beautiful chords along with slides and harmonics in his tracks. He has a bright sound for his positive message in this track. Part of his lyrics is, "No Filter, Be true to who you are! Still Shine Bright Like Diamonds..." What a wise statement for everyone! This young man from New York is going to go places in his music journey. Singing tracks about love, being strong, and staying true to who you are.

In conclusion, Willy Kuo never ceases to amaze me with his beautifully played tracks about life, love, hardship and self-confidence. His never give up mentality makes his tracks shine! Readers, Please hit the YouTube links about and find out for yourself.

Review by:
SchizoFranic
Link: https://linktr.ee/SchizoFranic

New R&B/Pop Song Release, Lifelong Journey off the Falling Rain Album - New York Artist Willy Kuo!

A word from Willy Kuo

A comprehensively passionate songwriter based in New York.
Always have an exceedingly prosperous desire to make exceptional music, and strongly experienced with songwriting and music arranging, it's time to get musical.

As music is the expression of art, I devote myself to writing for it, life is art, music is the way of helping people truly get into it!

Willy Kuo Tracks on YouTube

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcSC0QJVFzA (Falling Rain)
2. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#starred/FMfcgzGsmNZFWbwdKwCdVhqJjhCcpGzh?projector=1 (Lifelong Journey 'original')
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dszlBoPcStw (Experiences)

The Review

In the past I have done two review's on Willy, Falling Rain and Experiences. This review will be on his track Lifelong Journey (original). So lets get to it readers!

Lifelong Journey starts of with stunning guitar playing by Willy Kuo. This track like his others is totally unplugged. which I love hearing the raw sounds of just a guitar and the Vocalist. the guitar has a full but bright sound to it and Willy plays the rhythm on the flat top of the guitar strings like an old blues player would. This song is about just what the title states, life's journey. Willy begins singing, 'It's Just A Life's Long Journey Everyone Has, We Go Through in Their Lives'. Then Willy goes on sings about how that's what he keeps on telling himself To hold on to what he believes. I am sure we all have found ourselves saying that to ourselves once or twice in our life especially when time are hard. Then later he sings how there will be souvenirs that we gain along the way in life. What a true statement! at the break he sings 'Don't ever loose yourself' in rhythm of the guitar. Willy has such an inviting voice. He keeps you hanging on to the story line as it unfolds in front of you about this young persons life just beginning. We have all been there before! This track just has amazing guitar playing and a original lyrics with a story that keeps you wanting to know more.

In conclusion. What an outstanding musician Willy Kuo is at such a young age. His sound is original and his lyrics keep you wanting to hear more with his bright tones of his guitar and his inviting voice. So, readers check out Willy's YouTube video's. Sit back, relax and just listen to how talented this artist really is.

Review by: SchizoFranic
Link: https://linktr.ee/SchizoFranic

Hit Singer/Songwriter Joins Forces with Minds Behind the Music

He’s lived with Pueblo Indians, spent time in jail in Istanbul, travelled the world and had numerous music hits with Warner and Sony. Now, Tom Tikka has joined forces with Minds Behind the Music to release his new album, Better Man.

Tikka is a prolific songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with a proven track record of hit songs. One of those songs found its way onto the Born Free Foundation fundraising album (from Minds Behind the Music) alongside music stars Paul Shortino and Brad Walsh.
His new album, Better Man, is packed with hit after hit that entice and captivate the listener. In a world of music often lacking in melody, Tikka’s album stands out head and shoulders.
Tikka lives in Finland with his wife and six children where he is constantly working on new music both solo and helping out other musicians get just the right sound. In fact Tikka is now working closely with other artists from the Minds Behind the Music label to help them release music through the labels mainstream distribution deal.


Better Man is out now and available on every music platform in every country.
End
Tom Tikka is available for interviews. Tracks available for air-play. Please contact via email below.
Contact: officialmbtm@gmail.com
Tom Tikka Website www.tomtikka.com
Minds Behind the Music Minds Behind the Music Records 

The Darren Holland Project

Who Are the DHP?


The DHP is a husband and wife duo from Kansas City Missouri.

I'll start by telling you that we are a team but I am the writer. Cheryl, my wife gets the pleasure of being woken up at 2 am bc I feel I have come up with something cool and she actually listens. Cheryl is the one I trust to put her voice, her style, musicianship, her mark into the sound that we call the DHP.

A fifth Album is ready to go called "Vibe Mutha Vibe". It is a 10 song release and should be released soon on May 1st, 2022. I am sending "October", The song about a woman who will no longer stand for the abusive relationship she is in and feels empowered to leave.

Oh and lyrically I write about life, the good, the bad and the ugly. I write the story of everyone I know, everyone I meet and some I miss. I write about the sex, the drugs and the mental issues we all have at times. My stories can be viewed differently by each person who listens and that it touches.

Who has influenced me?

I am influenced by every sound that has ever passed by. I could say, Queen, the Doors, The Weekend, Poison, STYX, Justin Timberlake, Adel, The Muse, 21 Pilots, The Black Keys, and George Winston,,, or I could say, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The BeeGees, NIN, Eminem, Faith No More, Pink Floyd, Chris Cornell, Katy Perry, Neil Young, Neil Diamond, Taylor Swift, and Imagine Dragons. As I said, everyone mainstream and every indie band and every sound that I have ever heard has influenced me!

Who are the DHP?

Darren Holland : Guitar, Bass, Keys, Ukulele, and Vocals.

Cheryl Holland : Keys, Harmonica, Drums and Percussion and Vocals.

Barb Wilmoth : Drums and percussion and additional back up vocals

Andy Oxman : Producer

https://linktr.ee/thedarrenhollandproject


Latest News from Minds Behind the Music

New Indie Label Gets Mainstream Distribution



A brand new music label released a charity album for planet Earth and because of that were offered mainstream distribution through Orchard.

The label, Minds Behind the Music, released a compilation album of the same name featuring stars such as Mungo Jerry and Simon Kirke of Bad Company. They also featured a host of awesome indie musicians. Following this they released an album from the legendary Star Prairie Project which has so far had millions of plays.

Now with global mainstream distribution in place they are releasing two more albums from two indies.


The first is actually the second album from the electronic ambient and established indie, SchizoFranic, entitled Event Horizon. Her first album from the label was called Vibes and is already being considered by several film companies for inclusion in movies.

The second new album is called Fecundness and is quite different. It comes from prog-rock indie band, Those Men, who are quite a name in the indie world for being totally insane.

“We want a broad spectrum of the best talent in the indie world and with these two very different releases we believe we’re getting there.” said MBTM owner and author, Phil G.

Both albums were released world-wide on every platform on the 22nd April.

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PRESS: Please get in touch for photo’s, links, interviews etc.

More Information about MBTM Records can be found here https://mindsbehindthemusicrecords.carrd.co

For all enquiries please contact: officialmbtm@gmail.com

She Loves 2 Shop

SHE LOVES 2 SHOP, Artist/Producer Greg (Rollo) Wigz…

Article by SchizoFranic

She Loves 2 Shop…..There is a message in this name.

Talking to She Loves 2 Shop was an amazing experience. She Loves 2 Shop is a down to earth, God loving person with a view about the wold that Greg notices that we are in the midst of turmoil. And Greg believes That the world needs to be more aware of the state of things that are happening in our society. She Love 2 shop incorporates these views in his music. The meaning behind the name “ She Loves 2 Shop” will be revealed at the end of this review…

My first question was tell us about how you became a musician/ songwriter? Tell the readers a little bit about She Loves 2 shop. This is what he had to say.

I was raised in a musical family. My father was a guitar player and singer , had his own country/Rockabilly dance bands.

We had music at Grandmas house every Christmas , Aunts & Uncles cousins everybody sand and played either a guitar or the piano.

Pretty stunning renditions of the Christmas Classics, white Christmas, Silent Night, Come All Ye faithful etc...

I played a violin for a year , moved on to a trumpet ( more flash) and then started guitar at 14 yrs/old ...

Was playing in a band (electric gtr ) with my younger brother , he played bass, at 17 yrs old.. we made money with a drummer and a lead singer.

We got jobs at the same clubs/bars our Dad played, In fact about half our songs we learnt from his band ... The owners loved us, everybody did.

The old ladies use to get a kick out of us young boys up there on stage , lol. Our singer school chum was a natural entertainer/comedian !

And our drummer was a child prodigy , we slayed them with Wipeout and other cool tunes.

I just liked the idea of having fun watching the crowd groove. It's a natural high getting paid to have fun and we were our own bosses.

So I wanted to be a lead guitar player like my Dad , but better ! My Dad didn't write songs but I started because i didn't think it was that hard to do.

I really learnt how to write songs when I quit trying to write, I wanted to sing but wasn't very good at singing other peoples songs... lol

so I made my on songs that I could sing, and the more I sing the better I get, If you can talk , you can sing THATS my attitude towards it.

So I became my own style ... out of necessity .

My next question for She Loves 2 Shop was, What influenced you to become a musician, for example favorite band, issues in your community, the state of our wold… ect?

My Dad and older cousins who could play Rock guitar. I have always been aware of my surroundings so I pull influence from other instruments, genres  etc .. by dad like country and 50's music , my mom liked classical and Big band Swing ...

I liked the 60's and 70's Rock I learnt on .. going into the 80's we had the big Hair band thing.. I liked Punk and Hard Rock ...

The alternative bands I found great in the 90's. Songwriters everybody knows that I studied Lennon, Cobain and tons of others.

Next question I asked She Loves 2 Shop was, What are some of your songs and their meanings?

Sometimes I don't know but vaguely what they mean ...

The song ...    Walk With Me ... is a fantasy about a guy wanting to take a girl he likes on a date. thinks about her but has doubts she'd accept

Taking her to Jurassic park I think is his way of saying I might be scary but it may be thrilling .

So he tells her he's a risk but he’s also not gonna let anything bad happen to her, he seems to enjoy teasing her !

Mother Hurt - Is about living in the modern age of Oil energy dependance. The crucial lifeline of oil is a vulnerable catastrophic event , happening now

Mother earth is feeling fine ... the planet will survive , mean while it’s business as usual as people , go about in an ignorant bliss? denial?

This following question was, how do you explain your music style?

My Music Style ... Is the Sum of all Ive seen and heard ... Spit out by my attitude as a fighter for the people, a voice for the simple upright truth loving person.

When I asked She Loves 2 Shop What is your writing process this is what he had to say…

My writing process ... has been something as simple as sitting with my acoustic guitar and feeling inspired ... to sitting at the Recording Desk and creating from scratch a multi-track that I work out into a finished song adding the parts as inspired by what I am given as do this . It’s all about decisions.

My Take on She Loves 2 Shop single… “Walk With Me” that was released in 2021

First thing right off the bat you get hit with powerful drums accompanying with a wall of electric guitars. Then the vocals come in with…” would you love to talk a walk with me!”…”Would you like to take a walk with me to Jurassic park”, suggesting that the world is a zoo perhaps? The style of the music borderlines puke rock in my opinion, with punchy drum lines and the lyrics a bit playful. The song itself has a bit of the Ramones with a Sound Garden    feel to it. Guitar solo is interesting fades into a synth sound like time ticking then back to the chorus….. would like to take a walk….

All around I think this is a really good Track very original with hints of a lady screams when Jurassic Park is mentioned adding a bit of dark humor and with a quirky references stating keep off the grass…

She Loves 2 Shop described 2 more songs in his words and this is what he said….

Why Oh You

She Loves 2 Shop has a song called Why Oh You the back story of this song    is quite sad but I think that people can relate to it one what or another. The story told to me by She Likes 2 Shop goes … Greg had a girl friend who was a fantastic poet. She wrote a poem titled Sunshine to Shadows. Greg asked her if he could put it to music, she said yes. Greg was inspired and it was the first song her ever wrote. Greg was 17 years old and the year was 1978.

Greg just recently recorded it for the first time and had to add a chorus to her verse as he recorded it for the first time.

Greg said from the beginning it spoke to him as the emotion of attachment fondness and endearing heartache at being apart…the verses are as she wrote them. The chorus is his input as to finish the idea. Greg instantly was able to recall the words to her poem and it has been with him all this time.

Greg says he has no idea what has become of her, but he always had sympathetic feelings for her.

The next song is call…. DAMN

The Song DAMN is also about love heart emotion of wanting, in this song it is about recognizing the want and thinking it is unhealthy to be obsessive, causing emotional distractions and also recognizing it needs to stop as in a painful attraction Greg states. DAMN is the most recent song that he has written. Greg had thought to include it on his next album, but he felt it came out very well and would compliment the tracks on his upcoming    album PROFANITY In April 2022.

I asked She Loves 2 Shop what are some of your releases this is what he had to say.

My Release's

In April 2021 I released The Album SHE LOVES 2 SHOP , The Debut Album It contains the song SHE LOVES 2 SHOP , the title track. It contains 13 songs. One instrumental DARKSIDE

In December 2021 I released The Album DEAD RIGHT & BLEW ... the opening track is Mother Hurt , it contains 13 songs, One instrumental FEAR GOD

In April 2022 I will release The Album PROFANITY ... the opening track is NOT NOT MAD , it contains 13 songs , One instrumental HOLY MOUNTAIN

Here are the links where you can find She Loves 2 Shop work:

SHE LOVES 2 SHOP website HOME

All places Streaming:
SPOTIFY          https://open.spotify.com/artist/7Ab8rIVL1ckWCf0BcMeKLo?si=scHfKJD1SYe3astW_llZiw
BANDCAMP    https://shelovestoshop.bandcamp.com/album/dead-right-blew

SHE LOVES 2 SHOP - YouTube

SOUNDCLOUD    https://soundcloud.com/sheloves2shop

Or his songwhip      https://songwhip.com/sheloves2shop

The following question that I asked was, How do you feel about the state of the world today? And how does it affect you and your work? This was Greg’s Answer..

Todays current world situation ... Is very bothersome and I am compelled to condemn the evil and fight, condoning the prevalent belief system that is widely held , where wrong is right , up is down and the self reigns supreme to the natural order of spiritual law.

It effects my works in that it is my hope that people can find spiritual peace and believe in Love and live in harmony with the will of the creator in their hearts.

And here we come to the conclusion of this review. What does “ She Loves 2 Shop” stand for, and why did you choose the name? This is how I sums up what Greg’s message is…

SHE LOVES 2 SHOP…. Metaphorically is represents America, being    materialistic in their beliefs, behavior thru consumerism .

The selfish behavior of materialism that is taught and worshipped in place of a spiritual DIVINE nature, vulgarity, and profanity are applauded.

America has become the leader in atheism. Selling her self to the followers of the world. How this monopoly has enslaved the people.

But It doesn't need to include you.


Article by SchizoFranic

You can find out more about SchizoFranic here https://linktr.ee/SchizoFranic

Indie Superstar Interview

Indie Superstar, Coen Rhys, Answers Our Questions

Coen Rhys is a positive over-thinker & experimental songwriter, applying twisted logic while balancing happy times with sad moments. He's also a jolly awesome chap and great musician who appears on the Minds Behind the Music fundraising album and will appear on the second one soon!

Follow him on twitter https://twitter.com/coenrhys




If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?

I like to think I consolidate and balance my influences… I’m happy to let them be them and for me to use their inspiration in how I diarise my thoughts through music to (try and) make sense of the mad world we live.


If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?

That's a rough one! I would be inclined to go with Jupiter by Gustav Holst. I can hear the ideas within the piece in lots of music!

Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?

Yes I believe aliens have visited planet earth… I am of the belief that the humans are the aliens.

The longer we have been on the plant, the more time to become increasingly distracted on what’s important and generally focussed on barriers to happiness.

What was the happiest day of your life and why?

The day our family as a 4 piece was complete.

From the unsure but excited face of my Oder child coming into my bedroom, seeing mummy wasn’t there and asking if her sister was ok (we didn’t know if we were having a boy or a girl).

Then when they both met each other, mummy and daddy looking at each other as our hearts were on the verge of bursting, thinking: this is the best feeling!

If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?

I wouldn’t ask God anything. I believe we make our own God. We have the power to make life whatever we want it to be.

As an expressive artist in the music industry, how does the state of the planet make you feel?

Embarrassed!

The planet however has a way to make the best of how it’s treated. I just hope the planet has some more patience to forgive the stupidity that’s destroying it.

Do you think as a person of some influence that there is a duty on us to help influence humanity for the better?

Every living thing has a duty, unfortunately the culture we find ourselves in is dominated by the need for power rather than common sense. We should all role model and all be willing to adopt better ways of thinking whoever or wherever these ideas come from.

What one cause would you say you feel most associated with and why? Whether it’s equality, poverty, politics, the environment or other?

It all comes down to respect! I often think that supporting just one cause is counter intuitive, and creates more of a divide.

Countries are lines drawn on sand by boys with swords, definitions are created by those in power to undermine differences.

If you were stood before the leaders of the world, what would you say to them?

I wouldn’t waste my breathe: the “leaders” implied in the question are mere puppets (in my opinion). A true leader builds a better tomorrow. The current “world leaders” use fear to drive profit, that’s not leadership.

And finally my last question is in fact one written by Freddie Mercury in the song “Is This the World We Created”:

Yes, This is the world we created, and we can change it for the better too, or destruct it by believing someone else will sort out the problem. Let’s not blame, instead take responsibility and do what we can (however little this may seem).


The Lorenzo Interview

The Lorenzo Gabanizza Interview


Lorenzo is a Multi genre musician - Rock, Country, folk, celtic - songwriter, novelist, collaborator with music legends, Jeff Christie, Snake Davis, Donovan, Vic Elmes etc.

If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?

There are many, especially from the golden years (60-70). The artists which influenced me, like Dylan, Diamond, Donovan, Barry Ryan...How could you not be touched by the lyrics of Bob Dylan? "Forever young" is a song which cut my heart in two, each time I hear it, or "Lay down your weary tune":


The ocean wild like an organ played
The seaweed wove its strands
The crashing waves like cymbals clashed
Against the rocks and the sand

Isn't this poetry? But as long as I've got to choose one, I would choose "For all Mankind" by Jeff Christie, because it's a song, unfortunately, so topical right now and, albeit filled with pain and wisdom, is a call to hope for all of us.


Are you a Mulder or Scully?

It depends on your vision of both the characters. Personally, I would say that I am more Mulder. Scully is deep, sensitive, but very precise, tidy, sometimes cold...While Mulder is a noisy and a bit messy guy. That's closer to who I am...


Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?

I don't believe they did. But if they ever do, they would surely think we are very primitive and slaves of our emotions. Don't take me wrong, I think emotion is paramount in our life, but not when it's a Master whom you blindly follow.


What was the happiest day of your life and why?

The happiest day of my life surely was when my son was born. Having a child changes your life and perspectives, it surely does, but I would say that you feel a part of you living beside you and you know, that's a weird and awesome feeling.


If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?

Hey, Man, why have you taken so many people outta here? They were too young and we still need them! Elvis, Marilyn, Jimi, Truman Capote, Bruce Lee, Marcel Proust, Antonia Pozzi, Jean Harlow...at least tell me, are they ok?


As an expressive artist in the music industry, how does the state of the planet make you feel?

Bad. I feel sad and bad about our planet. To see how life goes on, with no respect for nature or human life, and seeing the governments not taking steps towards a more responsible green policy it bewilders me. Aren't they aware that our choices are weighing on the future of our children? Aren't they aware that there's but one home where we all live together? It's like seeing a family pouring gasoline on a burning home instead of pouring water, and well this is foolish. I think the problem, the major problem is, besides egotism, the perspective. Our life isn't to be seen from a personal perspective, but as the ring of a chain. This is what our leaders miss. If they don't start to see the big picture, if we also don't start to look at the big picture, we are destined to destruction. Because our life has influences on others, for generations. It's true that one plastic bottle in the ocean doesn't destroy the ecosystem, but when we are thousands of tourists, it makes thousands of bottles per day. And that, yes, it damn destroys the ecosystem. So that's advice too for humanity: never forget that your life and person impacts this world. It's up to you to decide whether in a negative or positive way.


Do you think as a person of some influence that there is a duty on us to help influence humanity for the better?

Of course! We, artists, have an even greater responsibility, because we are there in the spotlight and we have to show the way or call people to the responsibility of their actions, as Dylan or Guthrie did so many times. In this perspective, it's true what has been said in the movie "Spider Man": With great power comes great responsibility.


If you were stood before the leaders of the world, what would you say to them?

after having scolded them and, after having some of them removed from their duty, I would tell them to stop this shit. They can and they must. They are the ones who legiferate, they are the ones who chose the path. So now stop spending money on what destroys and spend it on the things which build something.



And finally my last question is in fact one written by Freddie Mercury in the song “Is This the World We Created”?

A Great song by Freddie. Sad to see that so little has changed from the years in which Freddie sang that song. Because poverty still rages along with war in this world. I can answer you saying that this is not the world we created, but it's also the world we created. Because, after all, we have not decided wars, or devastating policies, but when we shave and let the water run, when we use intensive farming, when we use the car to go a hundred meters far, when we don't stand up against violence, racism, injustice... Well then yes we are part of it, we are just helping to create this self-destructive, obstile and sick world. So, let's live in peace and unite all together because the moment to act is right here, right now. If we want to give our children a safe and happy future, let's do it now.


Mind Behind SchizoFranic

New and upcoming musician, SchizoFranic, answers our questions!



If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
Nat King Cole - unforgettable my father played that song on the saxophone to me when I was 14 years old at a school function. I remember I had to stand up in front of the whole school and I was thinking to myself that's my dad. I was never so proud as I was that day that my father played unforgettable for me.

Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
Well, I'd have to say I'm a Mulder I believe with every fibre of my being, that aliens have visited us and they walk amongst us. I think aliens might be disappointed in mankind. Because mankind is so destructive. We destroy our own planet by our waste. We stand by and watch others starve in foreign countries. I think aliens would think that we have a lot to learn.

What was the happiest day of your life and why?
The happiest day of my life would probably be the day I received my certificate for graphic design. I didn't think I'd be able to make it through that course.

If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
I would ask God why is there so much suffering in the world. I would ask because every time you turn on the TV or maybe listen to the radio you always hear a story of 
someone suffering in some kind of way, either starving or homeless.

As an expressive artist in the music industry, how does the state of the planet make you feel?
State of the planet makes me feel a bit sad, because as a human race we should be one, but instead we fight each other over stupid situations like power, money, land.

Do you think as a person of some influence that there is a duty on us to help influence humanity for the better?

Yes most definitely I think each and every one of us has a duty to help influence humanity for the better. In the world nowadays we need more visionaries to unite the people.

If you were stood before the leaders of the world, what would you say to them?
I would say to them the leaders of the world please stop the madness, stop the war and please come together as one and unite and stand together.

And finally my last question is in fact one written by Freddie Mercury in the song “Is This the World We Created”?
Sadly it is the world that we created, but there's always hope that we can make it better. To stand together all countries as one.

You can find out more about SchizoFranic here https://linktr.ee/SchizoFranic


He's a Super Tramp!

John Anthony Helliwell – Supertramp


Saxophonist, keyboardist, singer and much more John Anthony Helliwell is a member of that truly super group, Supertramp. Not to name drop or anything, but he also played with Pink Floyd on their album, A Momentary Lapse of Reason, and to be honest, just go do a web search, because he’s into just about everything with everybody. How on earth he managed to find time to answer my questions I don’t know, but I’m grateful he did, or the book would have been too thin.


If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, because of his musicianship, soul, artistry, and sheer ebullience.

Note: Cannonball Adderley was an acclaimed saxophonist in the 50’s and 60’s.

If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
“You’ve Got A Friend” sung by Donny Hathaway, from his album “Live.” A great song, great sentiments sung about, the best voice, a wonderful audience who sing like angels, a crack band — just one track from the very best live album ever!

Note: A crack band is not one of those 60’s psychedelic bands getting high on too much powder.

Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
I lean towards Scully and if aliens ever visited Earth, I don’t think that they would have been too impressed with us.

What was the happiest day of your life and why?
Yesterday — I have lived nearly 40 million minutes, and my heart has beaten about 2.5 billion times, and I am grateful for having survived that long.

Note: How on Earth did you manage to keep count?

If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
“Why do you allow such pain, death, and disaster to be perpetrated by evil people on the world’s populace?” I cannot countenance such bringers of war and catastrophes.

Extract from the book: Minds Behind the Music. More HERE

Get A Grip of Yourself

IMAGE CONSCIOUS!

One of the biggest issues I see as I come into contact more and more with indie artists is the lack of clear marketing. The fact is, the next "big thing" in music will be pushed upon us by the marketing machines of big labels. It won't have anything to do with good music. 

So, what do indies need to think about? Firstly image. Yes I know, folk will be screaming at the screen now and say it's the music. But for this article, we are assuming there is an audience out there for your music already, you just need to find it. 

This article is not a list of things to do, more, it's a things to think about. Image is really important. It has to come from the core of what you are about. Not created to fit with what the people want. If you are honest with your image, your target market will come. 

Marketing is all about selling a product and your music is more than "art" it's a commodity that you want to sell. 

First thing to think about is a "unique selling point". This is what makes you different. What makes you stand out and what makes you different to all the others? Seriously, it matters. It's what made people like David Bowie stand out. A genius of recreation. But always honest to himself. 

Secondly you have to understand the basic marketing premise of AIDA. This is simple really, but hard to do.

A = Attention.

How do you grab the attention of your prospective listener? Image, colours, music, movement. All these things are "natural" elements used by marketing men for generations. 

I = Interest.

Once you have caught the gaze of the listener, you need to keep them interested. This is basically smaller "attentions", movement, colours, sound. It all depends on you and your music. More of the core revealed. 

D = Desire.

Once you have their attention and you're keeping them interested, you need to build a Desire to buy. Often this is by "association" whether that's you being played by Lady Ga Ga or your political opinions etc. Association is massive and all encompassing. She's eating that chocolate bar and she's sexy so I need it too!

A = Action.

This is the most simple one. How do they now get your music (or chocolate bar - vegan of course)? These are now more often than not links to where to download. Make sure you have a linktree or something similar because people buy from all different places and if they don't see iTunes they might not buy. Twitter is a big promo tool these days and SO MANY bands and singers don't have a pinned tweet with links. It's madness not to use this facility. 

All of the above relates to your website, your videos, twitter, instagram and even press releases. Try to think like the newspaper man and come up with a grabbing headline! Journalists don't want to have to work too hard, give them the ideas! 

So, there's a brief overview of the basics of marketing. The complexities all come from breaking these elements down and that's where a lot of people fall down. Understanding who you are and portraying that well, in a clean, crisp and uncluttered way. 

I'm always open to helping so if you need help, just say! 

Our website is HERE and our twitter is HERE

The Genesis of Music

Steve Hackett and Minds Behind the Music


Oh my, where do I start with a man like Steve Hackett? Musician, singer, songwriter, producer and all-round grand chap. Most folk will have heard of that little prog-rock band called Genesis. Well, Steve was in that. In fact six studio albums, three live albums, seven singles and one little old EP. In 2010 he was, with the other members, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (it’s a little place round the back of the Red Lion).

There aren’t many people who can claim to have influenced Eddie Van Halen or Brian May, but Steve’s amazing musical ability is beyond compare, so we won’t go there anyway. His solo work is vast, so vast it would turn this book into Lord of the Rings, so go and do a web search thingy on that phone glued to your hand. Oh, and his biggest claim to fame, he knows me. 

So he’s a god of music and I managed to get an audience with him up in the lofty clouds.

If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
It would be Bach. He was extraordinary skilled as both musician and composer, and ahead of his own times.

If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
It would be “MacArthur Park”, written by Jimmy Webb and sung by Richard Harris. It’s because of both the power of the sentiment combined with the orchestration, and sensitively sung. An homage to lost love.

Note: Now kids, Richard Harris is a legend in the acting world and he sang this song which took us all by surprise, pleasantly. It’ll be on youtube I’m sure. Have a look.

Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?

I can’t remember the details of the characters, but it was a thought provoking series. I doubt if they have visited Earth, as it would take them so many light years to reach this obscure part of our galaxy. But if they did and if they’d reached a high state of development, I guess they’d see us as flawed, irresponsible creatures, easily manipulated by narcissistic leaders.

Note: I must be an alien, because that’s exactly what I think! Nanoo nanoo (OK so if you’re under fifty you won’t get that).

What was the happiest day of your life and why?
The day I married my wife Jo, because I’d finally found my true love and soulmate, and it was a perfect day.

Note: And now Jo, you have it in print, give the man a hug.

Taken from the book, Minds Behind the Music HERE and available everywhere. 

Copyright 2021 Minds Behind the Music