Adaptation & Innovation: The Future of the Music Label

First written on January 11, 2008

Perhaps the most prevalent issue surrounding music today is how we consume it. The manner in which we have enjoyed music has changed constantly throughout history and it is currently in the midst of one of its most drastic transformations. The digital age has altered everything from the way we record music to the way we promote it, discover it, and listen to it.

Choosing A Venue: A Promoter’s Guide

First written on November 9, 2008

As a concert promoter new to Toronto it is important to know what attributes come with each venue you are considering for your event. There are a large variety of things to consider depending on the type of show you are presenting.

Artist Management: A Quick Review of Roles and Attributes

First written on June 26, 2008

What are the differences between an artist manager and an agent?

A artist’s agent is primarily responsible for getting gigs or shows for the artist. A manager deals with a much more broad range of duties. In terms of payment, an agent is likely to receive a smaller percentage than the manager and it may be drawn from only the tour or show income rather than the artist’s overall earnings.

Broadcasting Market Shifts: A Few Questions To Consider

First written on March 27, 2008

How has the market shifted from traditional radio to satellite/internet radio ?:

            With the arrival of Internet and satellite radio the largest shifts appear to be in the areas of format and diversity. While Toronto is serviced by a handful of genre or format specific stations, services like iTunes radio and XM and Sirius have given listeners a vastly more diverse and precise array of alternatives. 

Live Nation: A Review of the Elements

First written April 3, 2008

The sheer size of Live Nation and divisions makes it an impressive force in today’s music market. While they own or operate hundreds of venues and work with megastar artists, there are some weaknesses in this industry giant.

John Milton Cage Jr.: Pioneering Electronic Music

First written on October 15, 2007

To truly appreciate and understand the music of today it is helpful to have some recognition of where it originated. For every genre, style, and instrument there were those who pioneered or excelled at them and who have shaped the contemporary version that now exists. John Milton Cage Jr. is one of these pioneers.

Ol’ Blue Eyes: A Look At The Life Of Frank Sinatra

First written on january 29, 2008

Arguably the most important figure in popular music of the 20^th century, Frank Sinatra is unquestionably an American Icon for the ages. Singing and promoting the American song as it was written, Sinatra consistently took the “standards” of great composers and reinterpreted them in such a way as to establish them as classics in their own right. Despite countless changes in the times and popular tastes, he sustained a career spanning over 60 years and is revered still today.

The History of Rock N’ Roll: the Beginnings (1950-1962)

First written on October 27, 2007

In 1947 Wynonie Harris recorded “Good Rockin Tonight”. In 1950 Leo Fender released the first mass-produced, solid-body electric guitar enabling guitarists to play louder hornlike solos. In 1951 Todd Storz and Bill Stewart turned around Nebraska-based radio station KOWH by establishing the Top 40 format. In 1952 Alan Freed hosted the “Coronation Ball” and in 1953 Elvis Presley walked into the Memphis Recording Service. Many argue over when exactly rock n’ roll was born but there are definitive people and events that were irrefutably crucial to its development.