Hitting the gym for a nice run then back to the grizzie...

Networking is Fantastic - Friends of Friends

  Tonight we attended a dear friend of ours, Shaqueasha, Birthday dinner.  While there we did a round the table of introductions for each person of our names and how we met her.   I did some preplanning and brought about a dozen business cards to hand out knowing I would have an opportunity to hand them out at some point.

During the introductions I took about 5 seconds to let everyone know that my partner and I started a Record Label and handed business cards to everyone there.  That 5 second intro spawned conversation about the music I make and how/where it can be heard.  I was able to draw attention to our label by plugging our business and promoting what we had to offer.  It was easy and effective.  

 As a bonus we met two other entrepreneurs who have their own financial planning business and the connection was felt instantaneously.  Our mutual friend Shaqueasha told us all about them and it was great to finally to put a name to a face.  Through our brief conversation we decided to meet up again with in the next few weeks to exchange ideas and put our heads together to see how we could help out one another.  

Eric and I are both interested to see how it plays out.  One great idea they mentioned is for us to have an album release party for my first release; DanceBiology; available on iTunes with in the next 2-4 weeks.  We thought it was an awesome idea.  They seemed pretty interested in exploring the idea with us and assisting in was to better promote and manage our business.  

On a side note, one of them has a cousin who apparently has an exceptional voice and comes highly recommended.  It's kinda funny because you expect family to always defend and support family.  But I actually felt that their passion for their cousin's voice was legit and genuine.  Who knows where this relationship will take us but it was pretty incredible that friends of a friend could potentially lead to a great professional and even personal relationship.  

The moral of the story is to never be afraid of what you have to offer and never doubt how many people out there are interested and willing to support you.  Networking is a simple, free, and effective way to promote your business without much effort and a high rate of success.  

Keep it moving....

P.S. Always have at least 3-5 business cards on you.  You never know who you'll meet.  (See GotPrint.com)

 

Structure vs Creativity

 I find myself struggling a bit with structure when it comes to developing and creating a solid song with an intro, chorus, bridge, and hook.  Those are the foundation of a song which I've never really focused on.  I received some feedback from Steve Long, see prior post, and he mentioned that a lot of my songs needed work in regards to structure.  It was great constructive criticism all I have to do now is figure out how to channel my creativity in a more structured manner.  Practice Practice Practice!

I have my second One-to-One training on Monday at the Apple store.  Structure would be a good place to start....

Be back soon....

Our first video!

Last night, I (Eric) finished the final touches on our first video blog created on Wednesday for our webpage. I added some background music, played around with transition effects, etc. iMovie on our mac allows small projects like to be very easy. Go to our website, www.beatsciencemusicgroup.com and click on the video link at the top of the website. From there everyone will be able to access our videos as we post them. Soon we will have local venues and artists posted to this page so that the public can get a feel for what type of talent we are looking for. Keep checking back for more entries.

Headed home after a productive day of work. Looking to achieve the same tonight hitting the digital "turn tables." First album coming out on iTunes, Napster, and Amazon mid March! DanceBiology by BeatScience.... Support the movement!

Business Cards

 

  Yesterday we received our first batch of biz cards in the mail.  We created the design and used GotPrint.com.  It’s a pretty awesome resource and pricing isn’t so bad either.  We purchased 150 cards and I believe it was only $18.00 including shipping.  Although I would recommend FedEx or UPS, ground took almost two weeks to get here. 

 

Check back soon…!

 

C = Chuck

On my way to work this morning. We put together a video blog intro last night that Eric is working to put on our website/blog. I never thought it would be so difficult to speak infront of a camera. It took us about 20 takes to get it right without laughing or screwin our "lines.". They'll get better the more we do them. Check them out once we post them.. Seeya lata

It's a chilly Wednesday morning here in Northern VA. We attended the Open Mic night Monday evening. I had hopes of hearing at least one vocalist singing on stage but instead I only heard the voices of poets and their "struggle" to conquer life's strife. I'm a published poet myself however I could only take so much of hearing about thier life struggle to find "meaning" with in themselves. None the less they were talented but it became noise after the third performer.

There are several other Open Mic Night's all over DC which gives me hope that I'll have a chances to hear someone blow me away with thier vocal talent. I'll update everyone on the status of Steve Long tonigt.

Next stop, You Tube! We'll place links on our website for you to check them out.

I

Sitting at BusBoys in Shirlington checking out the talent... Open Mic Night number 1!

Heading home to go to the gym, make an R&B track, and head to an open mic nite looking for new talent. I'm hoping the talent in NOVA is alive and more than well.

If any of you know a solo vocal artist with exceptional talent in the DC area hit us up at BSMG@beatsciencemusicgroup.com

Next step... Talent search via talent show. Look out for that to post this Spring....

Eric - COO of BSMG

My name is Eric Emerick and I am the COO of BeatScience Music Group. I have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that the logistical and financial aspects of our new company are sound. With that said, I am very excited to be a part of such a great project.

As I'm sure you have figured out, our team consists of the creative Chuck, who has been doing a fantastic job of keeping up with this blog, creating amazing music, and myself, Eric, who has been trying to find ways to effectively promote our site online while also keeping track of expenses. I hope our site is appealing to our fans but please feel free to send your feedback!

My next step is to incorporate "Bio" pages which will highlight our future signed artists, their music, and their dream as a musician. I may start by highlighting Chuck's talent and give a little taste of other albums he has been working on. I would love to give everyone a sense of how eclectic his music is.

I will keep posting my updates to our blog as well so that we can give a more well rounded perspective on our business from music making, website design, artist search, to budgeting.

Till next time...

Songs with Vocals - Talent Search

 

  I started to realize yesterday that the majority of my songs aren’t so much for adding vocals.  Of course you can add vocals to any track however there is a certain sound I’m going for and I don’t believe I’ve completely found it.  Tonight I’m going to keep all this in mind when I get back on it.  I’m looking to make en eclectic catalog of music that includes Neo-Soul, Alternative, Hip-Hop, and Dance.  It’s certainly not an easy task and you can’t just “do it” as the Nike slogan blindly tells you.  I’ll knock a couple out tonight and let you know tomorrow of my success or struggles.  I am optimistic at this point.  I’ve made some pretty awesome tracks up to this point I just have to change my direction a little bit. 

 

Eric, the COO of BSMG, and I will be attending an open mic night at a local café tonight in search of new talent.  There are dozens of bars who hold open mic nights all over northern VA and throughout Washington D.C. so we’ll be busy in our search… We’re pretty excited… 

 

Off we go….

Practice Practice Practice

 

  Yesterday I talked about going to the One-to-One at my local Apple store.  I found myself struggling to replicate and complete the same musical task I was trained on during the lesson.  I knew memory would run its own course so I took what I thought were good notes.  My next lesson is on the 1^st of March and I still have a long way to go to master Logic Express.  I’m going to hit it again tonight with hopes of getting a little better each time I work on it.  Lesson of the moment, practice makes perfect.  (or frustrated)   J

 

Enjoy your Monday…. 

One-to-One (Apple Store)

It's partly cloudy on a Sunday afternoon in Northern, VA. Yesterday I attended my first One-to-One training at a local Apple store. The training is available for all types of applications for beginners and the pro's. I've been using Logic Express to compose music for the past 6 months or so but I know there is a lot that I don't know. I have the create side pretty well locked which my mind nearly never shuts off. It's the technical terms and functionality of Logic that I have still yet to master. I spent an hour with a certified trainer in Logic and had my questions prepared with my notepad and pen to take notes. Over all I found it really helpful and informative. I figure it's as informative as you want it to be based on your preparation of the training. I learned what Quantization and Automation is and have a much better understanding of how to record vocals on the studio level.

You can buy the One-to-One training via Apple when you purchase a computer. The only catch is you must purchase the training when you buy the computer. I don't ever recall this being advertised but apparently I was out of the loop. The cost is $100 and it covers every application that Apple offers. I didn't purchase the training session when I first bought a computer but felt it was worth asking if I could now based on the nearly 10k I've spent on apple products over the past 4-5 years. I spoke to the manager of the store and expressed my disappointment of how the training is promoted and the limited options available to purchase. He called me back 2 days later and told me to come by the store to purchase it. The lesson in this is to be prepared and never be afraid to ask what you reasonably feel you deserve. The worst someone can say is no.

It's Friday and I just walked out of work. That's right, I quite my job to pursue music with my first artist. We haven't made any money or songs or even discussed contracts; no big deal. I have a dream and Ill be the only one who can stop me.

Besides..the bank, the collection agency, Eric, and if I'm lucky the IRS and I can hang out at the court house. So yeah... Dream big but don't be a dumbass.

(no I did not quite my job; Eric aka COO of BSMG.)

His Name is Steve, Steve Long that is...

So today I had a 4:30 meeting with my very first artist. This has all happened so quickly. It was only 6 months ago I started making beats for fun which turned into a hobby and now a multi-million dollar business. Well maybe not a multi-million or even a million, but it will be soon enough.

Back to topic at hand. Mr. Long and I, Steve Long, met at his usual performing area in D.C.. Steve has been performing for years at metro stations playing live music with both acoustic and electric guitars. When I first heard him perform I was inspired and impressed. We sat down at a Quiznos for our meeting to have a chat. Not the most meeting friendly place but you gotta do what you need to succeed.

We must have sat down for only 30 minutes which flew by in seconds. We discussed expectations for one another and what I could do for him and he could do for me. I could see he was initially hesitant to see this young guy approach him with very little, nearly none, music industry experience. I was straight up with him and felt that was the best way to go. I told him I've only been doing this for a short period of time and that I thought there were things he could teach me as well. Steve is 51 years old, so yeah, he's got some time ahead of me in life.

We talked musical interest, influences, and general background on what each of us likes about music. I told him we could move forward for the first few months on an informal basis and go from there. At this point I don't know him and he doesn't know me so I thought it be best that we start our business relationship out slow but steady. I gave him two CD's, one with cover songs I thought he might sound good singing and the other with beats I've composed.

I told Steve that I recorded him singing a song a few weeks ago while he was performing at the metro station. He told me he wanted to hear it which is what I expected him to say but at the same time I was a bit nervous. I was confident that I liked the song but of course it was his song and I added a beat and enhanced the chorus. I played it for him via my iPhone in with my ear buds. I watched as he started bobbing his head for the first 20-30 seconds of the song and then it happened. The beat dropped in the second verse and he started to smile and bobbing his head a bit more. I knew right then it was official.

After listening to the song he said his apprehension went away which was more than flattering. Steve also writes his own original music and has a song out a YouTube called 'Believe.'

We left the meeting with a solid hand shake and I told him I'd get back to him with in the next 48 hours to tell him what our next steps were. We discussed open-mic nights, performing cover songs, and general promotion which is what we'll need to do in order to get his name out. The beautiful thing is that there are hundreds of people if not thousands who ride the metro every ay who know who he is. Although they know him as the guy with the nice voice at the metro. All I have to do is turn that into,"That guy Steve Long who use to sing in the metro is amazing."

Admittedly I am hesitantly excited. I have know idea what his work ethic is like, how responsible he is or even what kind of person he truly is. I believe its worth the risk to find all of that out. As things progress I will keep everyone updated. Don't be afraid to comment on my postings either.

Look out for Steve Long on YouTube and our website coming soon. See links below for his current YouTube postings. They are a bit old but it give you an idea of his talent and puts a face to a name.

Maria Maria - Steve Long - Performed infront of the Verizon Center - Washington D.C.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLMM2qbqruw

Believe - Steve Long (Original Song) - Performed at Farragut Metro Station - Washington D.C.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp2jtXxT9gg (Amazing song)

If for some reason these links don't work you can YouTube him yourself by search under "Steve Long, Believe" or "Steve Long, Washington D.C."

Stay tuned and good night!

 

  On my way to meet my potential first artist.  I’m excited; are you? 

Yesterday I had a conversation with my potential artist and it appears his initial interest in collaborating with our label has slightly diminished. It's not the ideal circumstance to walk into but it's still an oppurtunity to make my case for what I could do for him. I'm hoping my candor and desire for succes persuades him to move forward with the label and not without. As I stated yesterday the meeting was postponed til today (Thursday) evening. Wish me luck.. If it doesn't work I'll keep on moving forwad. Either way I will be the success I want to be.

Don't let dissapointment be the one who makes your decisions. Makes for a rougher ride but still it's a ride. Enjoy your day and stay tuned.

Almost There - Postponed

The meeting with my first 'potential' artist was postponed until tomorrow. Same time same place.... Sorry to disappointed, I know I had you on the edge of your seat waiting on the details... (?)

Have a great night! I'm hoping I'll sleep better tonight.

430 Meeting - Eat and Greet

  

  As I mentioned below I’ll be meeting with my first potential artist today at 4:30 this afternoon.  I told him it would be my treat for dinner but I still have yet to pick a place for us to chat and eat.  I’m going to find a place with WIFI so I can bring up the website and blog my COO and I have created promoting the Label.  I am confident things will go well.  I was tossing and turning all night last night thinking about today’s meeting.  Wish me success… I will fill you in this evening… 

 

Have an awesome day! 

 

His Name (The Artist) - Not Prince :)

Sorry, I'm not going to give out his name until I know he can deliver and has the confidence I need him to have for us to be successful. If all goes well you'll see an update tomorrow evening with all the juicy (hopefully good) details which will include his name by the way. Get excited!

My First Artist (Potentially) - Meeting Tomorrow @ 4:30

Tomorrow evening at 4:30 pm I have a meeting with my first (potential) artist. He is a Baltimore native but plays during the week throughout the D.C. metro area. I work off of the Federal Triangle metro station in Washington D.C. and I've heard this guys singing in the metro for money. Don't judge... This guy is amazing and you won't believe it until you hear it.

I recorded him singing in the metro on my iPhone a couple of times. I took one of the tracks home and turned it into a pretty awesome song (at least I think so). I've spoken to him on the phone once last week after tracking him down on the internet. He has a YouTube video online as well which is where I found out what his name. Through the video I was able to get a narrow idea of what the guy was like and at first glance he seemed like a pretty ok guy. We set up a meeting for tomorrow in the city off the metro stop where I first heard him sing. (Awe, how sweet right?)

This first meeting will give me an opportunity to get to know this guy for who he really is. As much as you can know someone with in two hours that is. I want to ask him what's important to him not only in music but in life. Where he wants to be in 5-10 years with his music and potentially BMSG as his label. I think its extremely important to not only take notice of person's talent but also their personality, integrity, and general presence as a person. If all works out to what I would consider a "good start" he and I will move forward to make history. (Music; history; what's the difference. I dream big and so should at you) .

I have a CD of songs I've picked that I believe fit his beats traits as an artist that I plan to share with him to get a feel for what type of music he wants to play. If he does sign a contract with BSMG the label, myself, will ultimately have to make the decision on what get's put out but his input in not only essential but in the best interest of the label. He will know what is good for him and we can work out what's good for the label. My mind is racing on the what if's in this scenario but it's ok. Again, think big and you'll get big. Even it doesn't work out with him, as disappointed as I'll be, there is still heaps of talent throughout the city.

Heading home to put together a video on YouTube introducing BSMG to the world. It's been a long day at the day job so Im looking forward to getting back on the label grind.

Good Morning - Legal Documentation

  It’s a cold but beautiful morning here on the east coast; Washington D.C 7:24 am.  I find myself not being able to sleep at night thinking about what I’m doing and going to do with this record label.  Yesterday evening I spent several hours identifying all of the documentation needed to ensure my label is fully vetted as a business in Washington D.C.  As much as I dream and strive for a successful label it is an absolute necessity to ensure I’ve covered all my basis in the legal department.  I can’t stress that enough.  I recommend getting an entertainment/intellectual properties lawyer to help you run through the legal documentation of establishing your label on an official level.  (I have a friend of mine, thanks Joe, who is assisting with identifying a lawyer in the D.C. area.)  Neither of those are cheap but taking the time to spend that money will save you from losing so much more in the future because you were to lazy and unprepared to kick off your label without double-checking all your requirements.  

 

Check out the Small Business Administration (SBA) in your local area.  They have business workshops that typically have a lawyer who comes to speak.  When I attend one last year I was given a 30 minute credit with an attorney.  30 minutes is not a long time but still is 30 minutes you don’t have to pay for.  The fee in D.C. was $50 and it was absolutely worth it. 

 

 

Required Documents - Varies State to State (Disclaimer)

When starting a biz, any biz, you are required to file particular documents which vary depending on the type of company you decide to choose; LLC, SC, Corp, etc. The requirements vary from state-to-state as well as the fees for those requirements. I've found LegalZoom to be a great resource for this information. They can do most any required documents for your business and at times charge you 1/4 of what a lawyer. At the same time LegalZoom explicitly states that they are not a law firm and not to take their guidance as such. With that said LegalZoom is also rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) which has requirements of its own to ensure every business rated by BBB is up to their standards. Check out BBB for yourself when you want to check out the legitimacy of a company you're attempting to do biz with. It's worth the time to protect your biz. Unfortunately not everyone is honest or appreciates the concept of integrity so don't let yourself be your worst enemy.

Sites to check out: LegalZoom.com & IncFile.com - Both have helped me out tremendously and both are BBB rated


Disclaimer: As you may or may not be aware by reading my blog I am not an expert at this process and this is in fact my first time starting up a business. With that said any postings I place on this blog are from my personal experience and it is at your personal discretion to take it or leave it. You are encouraged to do your own research to ensure you are protecting your investment. If you find that something I have posted is inaccurate or misinterpreted don't hesitate to let me know. Like you I am trying to run the most efficient and successful biz I can and having others in the same boat share their info and experiences is something we should all do and appreciate.

Organizational Structure CEO vs President

Typically an LLC such as mine has a president, vice president, and managers to coordinate, develop and manage the company. However for my LLC we chose to go with the Chief Exec Officer (CEO), myself, and Chief Operating Officer, my partner Eric, route. There are traditions and there are rules and as far as I've seen it's your business and you can title your management officials what ever way you choose. That's the beauty of owning your own company.....

Goals Are Essential

When developing a business such as record label having goals is a fundamental part of being successful; think big and you'll get big. Write your goals down or put them in a spreadsheet on excel. With each go give yourself a timeframe for accomplishing those goals. I have a spreadsheet that list everything I wanted to accomplish over the past six months and by keeping track of them I've been able to stay focused and productive. With all that said, again, think big and you'll get big. Being a realist is essential but never think you can't succeed and achieve your goals. Only you can hold yourself back and those who think otherwise don't deserve your time and you don't need their negativity. Work hard and stay focused and anything is possible.

My longterm goal is to be a millionaire with in the next 5 to 10 years. What's yours?

Workin it out..

I've been hitting the gym for years now trying to keep in shape and maintain a healthy lifestyle. With that said I think it's extremely important to workout at least 3-4 times a week when developing business which demands a large portion of your days time. Being fit will give you the energy to stay up later and motivation to be more productive because you're not an exhausted chunky trunks. 30-40 minutes a day of weights and cardio will go a long way.

If you haven't already figured it out yet, you're probably living on Pluto, YouTube is an amazing resource for promoting yourself or your artist. "How to" videos are unlimited and you can even find talent on there that is at times impressive and inspiring.

Building A Studio - Link

I found this link on the web. It has a lot of good insight into building a studio with high quality acoustics. The studio they're discussing is quite expensive but there's always away to get what you want on a budget...

Check it out...

http://www.realtraps.com/video_ultimate.htm

Bargin Shopper...Coupons anyone?

We just priced out some other gear for the studio. I recommend Froogle.com when shopping around for studio equipment. Froogle gives you a listing of the product and every site that sells your product. It will show you ratings and you can view the product from lowest to highest cost or highest to lowest cost for you big spenda's. You can buy new or used but if you have the extra money I would recommend purchasing new. Typically new equipment comes with some degree of a warranty even if it's only a 30 day return policy. If you buy used you take a risk with purchasing a dud piece of gear with the seller laughing all the way to the bank...

Guitar Center - If you have one in your town I'd recommend checking them out. The one I stopped by today had great customer service, great prices, and knowledgable staff.

Also, I've had some time to play with and edit my blog. I thinks it's extremely important to have a good first impression and quality work when presenting to the world. The more I learn about the blogging process the more you'll enjoy reading it.

Carry on ya'll... (Should I have said "you all" instead?)

By the way I've been posting from my iPhone so please forgive the spelling errors or severly poor grammar. :)

Just got home from Ikea looking at a furniture setup for the studio. I've found the best way to go for saving a couple bucks is to go to the store of your choice, write down the info of the product you want purchase, then go to Craigslist.org. Buying used is a money saver and much more practical for start up businesses.

We went to Guitar Centrr today to look at equipment for my home studio. I already have Logic (digital studio for Mac), mic, and a keyboard. After that, for a barebones studio, I'll need monitor speakers, conversion cables, and pontentially a conditioner for sound clarity. All in all, with the Pres Day sale, it looks like about $300 total. Not bad...

My First Release - DanceBiology

The first album to drop on BeatScience Music Group (BSMG) is DanceBiology. This album will be available on iTunes in mid to early April. The album consist of funky, fun, and energetic beats to move your feet get your heart rate moving. BeatScience is a "stage name" I initially used as the writer/author of my music with the intent of potentially getting my music out for others to hear. From BeatScience to BSMG the entire process and idea has evolved into an independent record label. DanceBiology is 1 of three total albums I intend to release over the next year. The following albums will be Hip-HopChemistry and LoungePhysics.

This past weekend I reached out to a local artist who inspires and moves me every time I hear him sing. If all goes well this Monday during our first meeting I will be introducing him the world wide web as the next big thing. Stay Tuned!

To put out a little info all of my music and logos have been officially copy-written via the U.S. Copyright Office. If you have any desire to sample or use content published in this blog or on my website, www.BeatScienceMusicGroup.com, feel free to contact me directly. BSMG@BeatScienceMusicGroup.com

P.S. To all of you U.S. east coasters I hope you survived the biggest snow blizzard on record.


"Get money through success and happiness" - Sounds cheesy but it sure is right!

Step One - Ah Ah Ah (Count Von Count - Sesame Street Duh)

The first few steps to starting a record label are standard for starting up most any other business. You need an EIN number which you can get via the IRS site, a business license with varied cost depending on what state you're in, and incorporate your business. There are many different types of business models to choose from but I chose Limited Liability Company. From what I've read thus far is that the company is a separate entity outside of the owner of the company. This means that if someone sues BeatScience Music Group they are suing the company and not me personally. This doesn't give you 100% immunity from a lawsuit but it does give you a warm and fuzzy about diving into a biz/industry you most likely know little about. LegalZoom.com facilitated most of the documents I mentioned above. I am not a sponsor for them nor am I saying you have to use them but I have personally found them to be helpful and effective in helping me get my label off of the ground. It's 2am and I've working on the computer for over 6 hours and my butt is sore from sitting in this chair. Sweet dreams everyone... more to come!

Get money through success and happiness - Sounds cheesy but it sure is spot on!

My First Blog Post

As of February 2010 I have officially started and established an independent record label called BeatScience Music Group LLC. This process started about 6 months ago when I started using Apple's Garageband via iLife. I've always had a passion for music but I never really delved into with such intensity until recently when I started making beats. I started making simple beats ranging from Dance/Pop, Lounge, and Hip-Hop ranging from 60 seconds to nine minutes long. From there I became increasingly interested into what I could do with the songs and how I could potentially make a profit and live the life of independence that everyone strives for and dreams of. I have a natural creative machine running my brain which allows me to be successful in life and making music is something that has become second nature. I have an album, DanceBiology, being release on iTunes worldwide in April of 2010. Check it and feel free to give me constructive feed back. Negative comments are not interesting, warranted, or necessary.

Please join me as I begin the process of building and developing my new record label. I have big plans and have every desire to go as as I can with this. Hope you enjoy the ride!