Alex Young April Spring Special Edition

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VOL. 28 NO. 27

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Photography: Ann Wang/ American Orphans

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Features Top

ALEX YOUNG

MUSIC ADVENTURE

FEATURING NEW

ALBUM “RELEASE ME”

Page: 16

AMERICAN

ORPHANS

BOSTON IS GETTING

BACK ON THE MAP .

SEE WHAT

AMERICAN OR-

PHANS HAVE PLAN

FOR 2015 Page: 28

UNSIGNED HYPE ARTISTS

TOP 8 ARTISTS WES KARDIGAN

JILLA

SINCEREYFL

PISACO

SWAG

LIL HERBIE

VIC MENSA

TONI ROMITI

LOGAN

FINANCE Page : 24

INVESTING YOUR MONEY FOR THE FUTURE

MUSIC NEWS

10 MISTAKE ARTISTS MAKE Page: 38

TECHNOLOGY

BUILDING A HOME STUDIO Page: 34

www.elbarriomagazine.org

Page: 8 EL BARRIO MAGAZINE LLC APRIL ISSUE 2015 Spring

Tevin “Kwame” Brown, age 23, is an Hip-Hop Artist From Ironton, OH. He has 9 CDs, 4 Videos, and is the CEO of PLE; which stands for, “Possibilities Live Everywhere”. This is what he portray’s in his music. No matter where you’re from you can live out any dream, if you try in every way to pursue it

elbarriomagazine.org APRIL ISSUE 2015 EL BARRIO MAGAZINE LLC Page: 9

The 80s Harlem Hip Hop Tailor Dapper Dan

He was selling custom-made clothing to Hip Hop’s

finest for thousands of dollars a piece, fashioned from

rolls of fake Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Fendi

prints imported from Korea out of his Harlem

boutique during the 1980s. His name is Dapper

Dan and before the likes of Kanye West and

Rihanna were doing it, this guy was the first to

bring designer fashion into the context of street

culture. Dubbed “Hip Hop’s fashion godfather”

who “planted the seed for fashion” in the music

genre, Dapper Dan’s client list included every-

one from Harlem hustlers to the likes of Run

DMC, Mike Tyson, Salt and Pepa, LL Cool J and

Bobby Brown, who would spend hours

at his store on 125th street which stayed

open all night and day for 8 years.

In 1988, two of Dapper Dan’s clients, boxers Mike

Tyson and Mitch Green crossed paths upon enter-

ing and leaving the Harlem boutique at 5AM in the

morning. The encounter resulted in an almighty

scuffle that hit headlines everywhere and landed

Dan’s boutique with some unwanted publicity. As a

result of the exposure, the brands that had refused

to sell Dan their wares for his 125th street bou-

tique, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Fendi, all sued him.

While it’s no surprise that the designer brands ob-

jected to Dapper Dan’s use of their logos during

the uprising of Harlem’s crack era, it’s still worth

recognising that what Dapper Dan did was a totally

original re-imagination of style. It wasn’t available

to them, so they made it their own– not necessari-

ly in an attempt to undermine the brand. Love it or

hate it, it’s well-worth a second look from anybody

interested in a crossroads of aesthetics, class and

culture.

Even though Dapper Dan’s outrageous fashions

went out of style in the 90s, his legacy lives on and some archival pieces

have recently been selling for impressive amounts at auctions and nov-

elty sales. He’s also recently found his way to the web– where he’s be-

gun sharing some great pictures of his clientele from back in the day.

HISTO

RY FA

SHIO

N


WES KARDIGAN

Bringing fans back to the days of that good ole soulful HipHop Sound, look for Wes to continue to make a impact in a lane left vacant. Down-load his latest single "Ah Yeah" (She Needs Me) on Itunes. @Wes_Kardigan

JILLA

Haling from Rockford, IL. Jilla is making noise with his re-gional hit "Doubt That" fea-tured on all major viral outlets. A city not none for many musi-cal talents may have their first legit star. @Jilla_815

SincereYFL

At just 19 years old has shared some of the biggest stages in Chicago alongside some of the most popular artists in the city, holding his own each time out. His local video smash "F**k I Look Like and cameo on TV show empire has him buzzing heavy in 2k15.

@SincereYFL

Picaso Swag

A new name to most but not for long. Dubbed "Mr. Y Would U Lie" thanks to the viral success of his smash single entitled "Y Would U Lie" Picaso didn't stop there. Taking the catchy phrase and making it a clothing line saw this newcomer a household name around Chicago in just a matter of months.

@PicasoSwag

Lil Herbie

After the national success of his verse on Chiraq with Nicki Minaj the 19 year old went on to have even more success with the release of his long awaited solo effort. G Herbo is considered one of if not the hottest spitting unsigned Chi Town artist.

@LilHerbie_EBK

Vic Mensa

Global bookings, major features, and yes still un-signed! Vic's national buzz continues to soar even with being very selective on how to feed his cult like following with new material. Only a few years removed from the group "Kids These Days" stardom is his next stop.

@VicMensa

Toni Romiti

The social media star has taken her success and ran with it, turning herself into a serious unsigned hype. Check-out her hit viral singles "Nothin On me" and "Imagine".

@_Romiti

Logan

Dope story told through witty rhymes and dope visu-als. Most are still getting hip to Logan's movement but with the hard work his team has put in with just a matter of a years time you have to think its bigger & better in store for this emcee.

@1636Logan

UNSIGNED HYPE ARTISTS


DAILY GRIND

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FEATURES Menu Planning

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EATING WELL


While most 13-year olds have no plan for their later years, Young was al-ready starting a bourgeoning career in music. On 9/11, Young’s dad barely escaped his World Trade Center office before the destruction of the Twin Towers. The event was an emotional one for Young, who promptly recorded “Heart of America” as a tribute to the police and firefighters who sacrificed their lives that day. The song was Young’s first time in a professional studio (though as a 6-year-old cast member of Sesame Street, she’d had previous experience on a stage), but proved so popular, it was picked up by New York radio station WHTZ (Z100) and played for several years after.


EBMAG: How are you Alex Young and thank you for taking part in our interview with you:

Alex Young: I'm doing well. Thanks for having me.

EBMAG: Tell us a little about yourself. How did you get into the music industry... Better yet introduced to the music in-dustry?

Alex Young: I have always had a passion for music. I was very involved with anything and everything that had to do with performance from a very early age. It's something that has always inspired me. I got involved with acting, singing and dancing in school as well as programs out of school. I eventu-ally decided to record my first album, Amazing. From there I met some really fantastic people and it really has just natural-ly evolved from there. It’s definitely been a journey.

EBMAG: How did music inspire your life today?

Alex Young: I am constantly listening to music. I really be-lieve that you are able to learn so much just from listening. I try to listen to as many genres as possible and make sure that they are as disparate as can be. I like to bounce from region to region, era to era. It's very inspiring and shapes the music I create. Pop music, R&B and Jazz tends to be your most inter-est.

EBMAG: We see that you have a big passion for jazz?

Alex Young: I do really love jazz. Especially, female jazz vo-calists like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. My family constantly had Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and John Coltrane playing in the background. It’s what I grew up listening to. In fact, this summer I did a special jazz series that included some original tunes along with some standards. It was a blast!

I love both genres. My sound is evolving. I’m pushing the boundaries, carving a new lane, moving toward a jazz-pop fusion. Still Top 40, but with distinct jazz, blues, undertones. I’m really excited about this new direction.

EBMAG: You’re a Jersey girl (lol) ... that’s what’s up! what gives you creative ideas to write and compose your music?

Alex Young: I guess I am a jersey girl! I was born in Man-hattan, lived there for a bit then moved to NJ, which is where I grew up. But, I have been living in NYC a while now. It’s an incredible place to be creative and gather ideas. There are so many outlets for inspiring my music. When it’s warm—which it definitely is not right now—I like to write in the park. I just watch everything happening, take it all in and use it for my music. There is just so much to draw from in this town. It’s really is great for that.

EBMAG: Alex you’re pretty much involved with community services and charities. Can you tell us which ones you are currently supporting?

Alex Young: Yes, I have been involved with The Hunger Project for some time. It’s a fantastic organi-zation centered on the commitment to rethink world hunger, empowering women to create local self-sustainable solutions. They know that when women are empowered, families are healthier, more chil-dren go to school, incomes increase and lives im-prove. I am inspired by the many stories of individu-als they have empowered around the world to build strong, self-sustainable communities.

I am also the spokesperson for White Diamonds In-ternational, a fair trade, conflict-free, diamonds company. White Diamonds International believes in paying miners fair market value for the stones they mine which in turn, enables the miners to sustain themselves, their families and their communities. It's really a fantastic company. Also, when a consumer buys one of their pieces, they are able to track it back to the actual person who mined it. It is a com-pletely transparent and conflict-free business.

I have also designed a special a three piece diamond jewelry collection called “the Stardust Collection”.

EBMAG: Are you currently signed to a label and if so, which label?

Alex Young: I am signed to an Indie label, Anaka Records. Alex, what is your background and culture? Well, I'm American! My great grandmother on my Mother's side came to the US from Russia during the war and my Dad's side is a mix of African American, Native American and French. So, I'm a bit of a mix. I suppose we all are.

EBMAG: We heard you are back in the studio re-cording now and your about to release an album. What's the name of the album?

Alex Young: “Green Lady”! Still in the process of writing and recording. I’m very excited about this new direction. My sound is evolving and centering at my roots. It’s still pop music but it has some very strong jazz and blues undertones. It’s been a really exciting process for me trying to combine the sounds. I really hope that people will enjoy it and feel refreshed. I’ve had so much fun developing this new sound and just can't wait to get it out there!


EBMAG: Is there a release date set yet for your album yet?

Alex Young: It has really been such an incredible journey putting this album together. I have been extremely hands on during the entire process and involved in all aspects of its creation, from writing to singing to producing. It's like my baby! I can't wait to share it with everyone.

The album should be done by spring! I'll be sure to post the date as soon as I know on my website and all social media. Check it out at alexyoungmusic.com, Facebook: Alexyoung-music instagram: AYmusic, twitter: alexyoungmusic

EBMAG: What can we ex-pect from this project you're working on?

Alex Young: It's really a mixture of sounds . It's jazz/bluesy with pop overtones. I was definitely pulling from some of my favorite jazz singers and musicians for this album. The most im-portant thing though was to really make it my own.

EBMAG: Who has helped you to put this project together?

Alex Young: I’ve been working with two really

talented people on this entire project. My pro-

ducer, Mattlock Robinson and Romy, who I am co

-writing with. It’s like I’ve come full circle.

Mattlock is one of the original producers of my

1st hit single “COLD” and we re-connected seren-

dipitously at one of my live jazz performance at

the NYC Soho House this past Fall. He’s an incred-

ible producer and we have amazing creative syn-

ergy in the studio. It’s actually so nice working

with a small group of the same people for an en-

tire project. I think it gives the overall sound a

consistency that makes everything fit together

really well, sonically.

EBMAG: What tours and future projects do you have lined up for 2015?

Alex Young: I plan to head overseas to continue pro-moting my pop project and simultaneously marketing and performing the newest jazz/pop album that is set to release. I’m looking forward to a great 2015!

Alex Young, in todays hip hop music who would you say is one of the best female vocalists in R&B and Hip Hop? and who do you think is one ofvthe best rapper or rappers you like to listen to? For female R&B vocalist, I’d probably say Ledisi and female rapper I’d have to go with Nicki Minaj.

EBMAG: Do you feel there’s a lot of competition now in the music industry consider-ing most major recording labels have folded and now independent artists are on the rise?

Alex Young: Yes, definitely! I think the competition is just as present

now as it ever was. The mechanism for finding and pro-moting talent has shifted but now it's much easier to self-promote which in turn creates a sea of competi-tion. Everyone has their own platform to be heard so it makes it difficult to cut through all the noise. It is such a super competitive industry but I really do love what I do and cannot see myself doing anything else.

EBMAG: Alex Young, thank you for your time. Do you have any other words you would like to add?

Alex Young: Thank you. It's been a pleasure. Be sure to watch for my new album release and all other tour dates, videos, photos and other fun stuff at; alexyoungmusic.com, Facebook: Alexyoungmusic, twitter: alexyoungmusic, and my Instagram, AYMusic.

Kisses!! Thank You

ALEX YOUNG

No matter what you do for a living or how much or how little money you make, investing for the future is critical. These days, fewer workers than ever can rely on a traditional defined benefit pension plan, so it is up to every worker to save for his own retirement. Learning to save and invest for the future is very important, and that process should start as soon as you start earning your own money.

Step 1 Build an emergency fund equal to at least three to six months worth of living expenses. Having an emergency fund in place will protect you in the event of a job loss, large medical expense or other financial shock.

Step 2 Check with your employer and ask if there is a 401k plan in place. Request an enrollment booklet and review it carefully. Invest at least enough to get the full company match, but aim to invest more than that over time. Consider enrolling in an automatic escalation plan that boosts your contribution percentage automatically each year you remain in the plan. As of 2010, you can invest up to $16,500 in a 401k plan, plus another $5,500 if you are 50 or older. The administrator of the plan will keep track of your contributions and suspend them once you reach the limit for the year.

Step 3 Contact several mutual fund companies to ask about their individual retirement account, or IRA, plans. The IRA is designed to help workers save for retirement by providing a tax break, either up front in the case of a traditional IRA or through tax-free withdrawals in the case of a Roth. In addition to mutual fund companies, banks and brokerage firms can administer your IRA for you as well. As of 2010, the contribution limit for IRA accounts is $5,000, plus an extra $1,000 for those age 50 and older.

Step 4 Set up an automatic monthly investment into your IRA by directing money to be transferred from your bank account to the mutual fund within the IRA. This automatic investment forc-es you to save and also forces you to live on less than you earn.

Step 5 Set up similar automatic investments for mutual funds outside your IRA and 401k if you still have money to invest. Investing a set amount of money each month means you automatically buy more shares when the market is down and fewer when it is at all-time highs. This approach, known as dollar cost averaging, is an excellent way to build wealth for the long term.

How to Invest Your Money for the Future by Bonnie Conrad, Demand Media

1. Real estate. The real estate market has taken a huge hit over the last year and a half. For decades, it seemed as if real

estate values could only go up, until everything came crashing down. Real estate values have slid so far, though, that there are real

bargains to be had. Obtaining a piece of real estate at today’s rock-bottom prices may provide you a rate of return you've only

dreamed of. Every real estate market is different, so if you are interested in real estate make sure the market you buy in has hit

bottom, or nearly so, and that you expect values to appreciate.

2. Healthcare stocks. It is no secret that the average age of the U.S. population is getting older. As such, more and more

geriatric medical care is going to be needed. Invest in opportunities that take advantage of this: healthcare stocks, medical device

stocks, hospital stocks, etc. Capitalize on the fact that demand for medical services and medical devices is going to skyrocket.

3. Cruise line stocks. An aging U.S. population w ill mean a boon for the cruise line industry. A large portion of cruise line

patrons are older; as the population ages, demand for cruise line services is likely to increase. Increased demand leads to top line

growth and a greater return on investment. Cruise lines are likely one of the best investments for the future.

4. S&P 500 index funds. The United States is a vast country full of natural resources. These natural resources are going

to keep the country an economic powerhouse well into the future. Take advantage of the fact that historical returns of the S&P 500

(over the long term) are excellent, and invest in an S&P 500 index fund as one of your investments for the future.

5. U.S. government bonds. Everything on this list carries some risk. Reduce the risk associated w ith your investments for

the future by investing in U.S. government bonds. Considered the safest investment in the world, U.S. government bonds provide a

modest return in exchange for safe growth. If you are worried about inflation, consider investing in U.S. government TIPS (Treasury

Inflation Protected Securities).

Investments for the future should be on the forefront of every investor’s mind. Long-term future investments provide the most relia-

ble returns over the long run, setting an investor up for financial success. Consider these investments for the future a starting point

in your research

Man Made Investments

Finance


EMLIY

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Hood by FENDI

Face: High Precision Retouch

Concealer by GIORGIO ARMANI

And illuminating Highlights by Tom Ford

Eyes: Magic Kajal in Magic Black by GIVENCHY

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And illuminating Highlights by Tom Ford

Eyes: Magic Kajal in Magic Black by GIVENCHY

EBMAG: How you guys doing. We would like to congratulate you on your success. Tell the readers a little more about American Orphans?

Jusgreen: American Orphans is a conglomerate talking about reality-based songs of every-day liv-ing and what people are going through.

Raw Black: Also, American Orphans is a movement for the better good.

EBMAG: How did you guys meet up?

American Orphans: We met through our Manager and the rest is history. I rap, and Jusgreen sings, so we decided to do this music thing.

EBMAG: Based on your career how has music influenced you to become who you are today?

Jusgreen: I look at how music was back in the day, as to where it is now, there are no positive, motivational singers for the youth and older generation. Like there was Marvin Gaye back in the day.

Raw Black: Based on the music we doing now, music has influ-enced me through the means of how you can progress through it. You know what I mean? Getting involved with music is a posi-tive, because I could have been doing what I was doing.

EBMAG: How did the name American Orphans come about and why the name American Orphans?

Jusgreen: American Orphans’ name came about from different races being born in America. Being from America, you know most people come from heritages outside of the United States. Some of the people in America don’t know much about their origination. So, in some sense of the word, because we lack knowledge of our ancestry, we are Orphans here in America.

Raw Black: American Orphans not only starting in America, I feel like it being Green’s idea, and him having an orphan lifestyle growing up, it’s an eye-opener. In so many ways, so many peo-ple go through the same thing. So many people go through so many of the same things, just in different ways and different places. So, Beantown this, Brooklyn that, we all go through the same garbage a lot of the time.

EBMAG: How long have you guys been in the music industry for?

Jusgreen: As the American Orphans, we just got to work on this roughly two years ago. We have a lot of projects coming up, and have done some projects thus far, including our upcoming EP “Stuck In Our Wayz”.

Raw Black: What you mean “the industry”? That is a rhetorical statement, not a question. As far as I’m concerned, the industry can be somebody’s living room. But if I had to round it off to a number, I would say 3-4 years.

EBMAG: How do you guys manage to work together without stepping on each other’s abilities?

American Orphans: We don’t. We have our moments, every-thing isn’t peaches and cream all the time, but we work through it, because it is about the music.

EBMAG: Can you guys explain to us your character as artists and style point a view?

Jusgreen: My character is kind of like a smooth, jack of all trades. I produce, I sing, if I wanted to, I could rap. I also write songs, so my character is eclectic. My style is harmony-driven twist of melodies of sounds of every-day life blended into music. Feelings and all.

Raw Black: My character as an artist is to keep it as thorough as

possible. I refuse to fabricate, promote, and condone trash. My style of rap is words to rhythm formed by authentic talent and swag.

EBMAG: American Orphans has been doing shows and events locally. What was American Orphans last event you performed and where?

American Orphans: Shout out to NEUF, shout to Lisa Pinto, shout out to Mo and Barbara Williams, and big ups to, the legend Noreaga. Our last show was opening for Nore in Revere, MA, which was a New England Up Front and BL Talent Booking, LLC collabora-tion. It was poppin’, and we did our thing. You can see those pic-tures on our FB band page American Orphans, or on our web-site americanorphans.com

EBMAG: What is some of your plans for 2015 ?

American Orphans: To do more shows, work with more artists, get our EP out there and our videos. Get back in the studio to put to-gether our mixtape, and start on our next project. We want this to all lead to a good record deal, so that we can really bring the work to the masses.

EBMAG: Any current projects are albums you guys working on right now?

American Orphans: Our EP “Stuck In Our Wayz” is complete, but we are still working on getting it out there. We have some other music in the works, and as we said, we about to be on that studio wave and video wave in a minute. We look forward to those upcoming events we are working on. People def need to stay tuned to americanorphans.com and FB band page, and our Twitter @theaomusic, they can also go to our individual Instagrams @rawblack617, @jusgreen, and @dramatized1127 (our third mem-ber). He is silent for the moment, but he is definitely in the mix.

EBMAG: Who are some of your favorite artists you like to listen too?

Jusgreen: I’m versatile. I listen to everybody, so I mix up the music I produce, write, and sing. Shout out to big homie DMX and Nature. I like Max B (Free Da Homie), Free Boss Don Big Avel, Luther Vandross, Lenny Williams, Future, Yo Gotti, French Montana, Glen Lewis, John Legend, Anthony Hamilton, Joe, Tank, Kellz, Whitney, and of course Michael. Can’t forget Big L, Big Pun, Biggie, and Pac. All the other greats RIP.

Raw Black: Shout out to one of my biggest influences as a kid, Nas. I’m a bar affiliated man, so that’s a shout to Earl Sweat-shirt! Oh, and definitely Jusgreen. Lolol. I listen to an artist from the Bean by the name of Spiffy, and I listen to me. I listen to these peo-ple on a daily basis.

AMERICAN ORPHANS


EBMAG: What makes American Orphans the next to blow?

Jusgreen: We got what you need right now. We got what the people are crav-ing. Quality, infectious tracks that have some-thing to say beyond a hot beat, a hot hook, and a crazy drop.

Raw Black: Basically, what makes us next to blow…I feel we are well-rounded enough to succeed. I won’t say blow, because I don’t feel that that’s the proper term. I say succeed, be-cause some of the avenues other people shy away from, we are not afraid of; talking about what’s going on, and turning it to a posi-tive. We are no stranger to the negative. I feel like people can relate.

EBMAG: We see that you guys have a very busy life. Both of you are still working? Right! What is your job occupation, when you’re not record-ing?

Jusgreen: I’m a full-time utility technician/prep cook at City Fresh Foods

Jusgreen: Of course I do. The music that we’re making is not like the music that is on the radio right now. We are different, and pride ourselves on bringing quality back to the game.

Raw Black: Oh yeah. We are genuinely trying to use our music to uplift the community. That is what this is all about. It takes a village.

EBMAG: American Orphans thank you for being here with us. Do you guys have any last words you would like to say?

Jusgreen: I want to thank you guys for having us. We look forward to coming back and splash you with more music. I want to thank our Man-ager, Catina Hay aka Da Pitbull. I want to thank God. I want to thank everybody who reads this and our supporters, and our team. Thank where I’m from, Springfield, MA, the 413, and my fami-ly there. Boston, New York. Big shouts. World wide! We comin!

Raw Black: As Green said, thank you for having us. Keep an eye on americanorphans.com for upcoming events, music, and videos. I want to thank a select few for recent support: Drama-tized, Niecie, Al James, Spiff Keep Pushin. Free my cousin Coozi Brixx! Also, thank my Manager, Catina Hay, and the management team. Much love to everybody out there, and keep push-ing. AO, AO!

in Boston. Shout out to Glynn, Aaron, and Sheldon, and everybody at the estab-lishment.

Raw Black: I’m a part time student, and dedicate the rest of my time to pro-moting, recording, writing, and advertis-ing for this music.

EBMAG: Do you think your music can change the world? And why?


AUTHORIZED KICKS

How To Build A Home

Music Studio

Commuting to a music studio and renting time is expensive and time consuming. If you're a musician, designing your own home studio allows you to invest your time and money in

Solo practice/composing

studio: Perhaps you're basi-

cally a solo performer or com-

poser in need of an appropri-

ate workspace. You'll need on-

ly enough quiet, comfortable

space for you and your instru-

ment along with good lighting,

minimal furniture and storage

space for sheet music and sup-

plies. Perfect silence and pris-

tine acoustics aren't really a

major concern.

Group practice or jam

studio: I f you're part of a

band or ensemble, you'll need

a good, large space for your

practice studio. You'll probably

also need to consider some

sort of sound buffer between

your work area and the rest of

your house. Again, if you're

not recording, sound proofing

and perfect acoustics are nice

but not required.

The Different Types Of Music Studios

Home music studios are used

for a number of different pur-

Teaching studio: A

teaching studio creates a

nice privacy boundary be-

tween your personal and

professional life. This type of

studio is much like a solo

practice studio, and can be

very small and simple. You'll

need enough space to ac-

commodate you and your

student, instruments, sheet

music storage, music stands

and perhaps a mirror to help

students improve posture

and technique.

Recording studio:

Home recording studios are

becoming a popular option

for musicians. To create one,

you'll need a space large

enough for all the musicians

and instruments involved in

recording projects, as well as

your recording equipment.

Additionally, you'll need to

address soundproofing issues

to block outside sound and

enhance the sound quality of

the room itself.

Combination studio:

Most home music studios are

used for more than one func-

tion, such as a practice and

recording area or a teaching

and composing studio. These

studios need to have the fea-

tures, equipment and space

required for the individual

studio types involved.

Choosing Your Space

Your first decision when de-

signing a home music studio

is choosing your best possi-

ble space. Your studio

should be a place where you

can distance yourself from

the goings on in the rest of

your home and just concen-

trate on music. Here are

some features that lend

themselves toward good

studio space: A room with four walls and a door that closes, such as a spare bedroom or office

A quiet room, isolated

from the sounds of traffic

and outdoor activity A separate structure on your property, such as a barn or garage, equipped with electricity.

Sometimes a basement is also a good choice for a mu-sic studio, since it's natural-ly shielded from a good deal of outside sound. Because instruments and recording equipment are often sensi-tive to moisture and humidi-ty levels, only build a base-ment music studio if you're positive your basement is waterproof. You may also have to take steps to adjust the humidity in your base-ment.


Preparing Your Studio

To get the most out of your

music studio, plan out a space

that doesn't get in the way of

your creativity. These tips will

help you design a studio that's

comfortable and convenient:

Make sure you have ample

storage space for supplies such

as cables, microphones, sheet

music, paper or percussion in-

struments. Each type of acces-

sory or supply needs its own

designated place so you won't

have to dig through lots of oth-

er items to find it. Wall hooks,

neatly arranged storage bins,

rolling carts, file cabinets,

shelves and drawers help you

avoid wasting time searching

for or tripping over accesso-

ries.

Even if you, your band ma-

tes or your students play your

instruments standing up, you'll

still need seating for everyone

involved. This will keep every-

one comfortable during down

time, planning and discussions.

Some larger instruments,

such as a piano or a drum set

will likely be permanent fix-

tures in your studio. Plan am-

ple room not only for the in-

struments themselves but also

for the musicians to comforta-

bly play them. Provide good lighting and ven-tilation as well as microphone stands, pop filters and music stands.

How To Optimize Your Home Recording Studio Sound

All music studios benefit from

improved sound quality, and

if you plan to record, this

step is essential. Here are a

few ways to optimize your

studio sound:

Balance the tone: For a

sound that isn't too flat or

too booming, use absorptive

materials such as fabric or

carpeting along with reflec-

tive ones such as wood or

metal.

Quiet your room: A

good deal of noise that can

ruin your recordings comes

from inside the room itself.

You may need to turn off

heat, air conditioning, fans or

refrigerators during record-

ing. If electric hum and

equipment fans are still a

problem, a two-chamber stu-

dio with separate areas for

musicians and equipment

may be necessary. Try a pre-

made sound isolation enclo-

sure or build your own divid-

ing wall. Wires and cables

run through the dividing wall

in this set-up. Soundproof: To keep out the sounds of street and household noise, you may want to cover walls and ceil-ings with soundproofing ma-terial.

Building a Recording Studio

If you're building a tradi-

tional recording studio from

the ground up, you'll need

a number of basic compo-

nents that may include:

Computer/recording

software

Interface

Preamps and amplifiers

Mixing board

Speakers/headphones

External processor

Microphones

Cables.

If this all sounds daunting,

and you're an acoustic solo

or small ensemble artist,

don't dismiss the option of

all-in-one recording equip-

ment. These digital desktop

units have improved dra-

matically in recent years

and used properly, produce

very professional results.

The investment in a home

music studio really pays off

when you're able to take

care of composing, prac-

tice, jamming and/or re-

cording, all from the com-

fort of home. The best part

is that you can create

whenever the inspiration

comes, day or night, with-

out having to wait for avail-

able studio hours.


Having worked at Music Forte for several years, I have gathered a strong

awareness of how artists promote themselves. Lets face it, starting off in

obscurity is a difficult point to launch a career from. Yet almost everyone

who was not born into royalty or fame has shared that starting point. And

many have found great success. Although it would be just as easy to focus

on what they did do, it is also helpful to focus on what they did not or

should not do.

1. Over-Pimped websites

This is one of the most annoying blunders an artist seems to make. No

matter where you promote yourself, you should keep in mind the direction

your visitors will take. With all the widgets, media players, and banners that

are provided for online promotion, it’s fun to show them off, but it’s not fun

for your visitors. Focusing on one direction will yield much better results

than focusing on 100. That direction does not mean to use only one site,

rather focus on one direction that will lead your listeners to a sale. Quite

often I am asked to visit an artists’ MySpace page to listen to their music. In

many cases it has been impossible. First off, the load-time of the page takes

over 60 seconds (due to all the gadgets and such that the artist has in-

stalled). Next, 5 media players start blasting their music at the same time.

Now I could start jumping around the page to turn off all but one, so I could

actually hear the music, but to be honest it’s just not worth the trouble, and

will annoy any perspective new fan. By keeping your content small and fo-

cused, it is much easier to funnel your visitors to a sales page.

2. “I’m Awesome” – the crushing ego

You’re awesome? Yeah, well that’s just great. David Lee Roth had no prob-

lem exposing his ego, but he really was awesome! Even after all these years,

there have been very few lead singers that can compete with his level of of

vocal ability. So many times, I start listening to a song, thinking to myself,

“wow… this is going to be great”. After the first 10 seconds of a well crafted

intro that has already pulled me in with it’s groove and masterful guitar licks,

the horror begins. You know what it is; that tone deaf vocal with a range of

one octave. Remember, just because you wrote a song, doesn’t mean you

have to sing it. Sure, we all know that the singer is in the spotlight and re-

ceives the most attention. But you should be showcasing an abundance of

talent, not a lack of it.

3. Don’t do it all

Although this is similar to point number two, it is still a common scenario.

Most of the people who say, I play drums, guitar, bass, and keys, really can’t

play any of them. Just because you did it, does not always mean you did it

well. Go out, and find an experienced musician to help you with your re-

cording, and your music will be perfect from intro to end. It may be that

your gift is simply in songwriting, and there is nothing wrong with that. Keep

on writing and be sure you have the right people to actually play the music.

By doing so, you and your fans will be happy with the result from intro to

end.

4. Putting your eggs all in one basket

Although most artists are obsessed with the idea

of landing a great label deal, very few have a

back up plan. Even the major labels only sign a

few big acts a year. Branch out and take ad-

vantage of other opportunities that are available.

You never know where it might land you. Work-

ing as a studio artist isn’t bad at all. It should not

be considered an act of betrayal to your current

band mates. And if it is, perhaps they should

read point number 2, and tone down their ego.

You might decide you don’t even need a band.

Production music is a great way to get your music

on TV or in a video game. You might even find

that playing in a church gospel group, brings out

talent you never had. There are many careers in

music aside from singing telegrams, so look for

those opportunities to branch out, and you’ll find

opportunities that you never knew existed.

5. Stay focused towards your audience

You may have a niche market. That market may

be small. Less competition is always a good

thing. But it doesn’t mean it will put you at the

top either. Connect with your audience every

way you can. The idea of Christian Rock used to

be a contradiction. By knowing your audience,

you will find success. But don’t try and force your

way into an audience that is not relevant to your

music. Regardless of opportunities, don’t just

throw your music to anyone and everyone. no-

body will listen to it if it is not the kind of music

they are interested in. And you will have just

wasted time that could have been more efficient

spent elsewhere.

by Greg

Top 10 Mistakes Indie Artists Make


9. Paranoia

If you are so worried that someone is going to steal your music,

just give it away for free. That does not mean that you should

announce that the music is available for redistribution. In most

cases, that is never going to happen anyhow. Your song is un-

der copyright protection as soon as you write. Put your CD in a

certified envelope, mail it to yourself, and don’t open it. Even

putting your music online creates a time-stamped entry in most

databases. Of course, you can always get a free Creative Com-

mons license to protect your work. More importantly, there are

tons of people that are happy to get music without paying for

it. Give them a taste, and they may just come back for more.

10. Don’t be a loner

There are a lot of networks available, and without a doubt it is

good to get involved. Many artists put up their music, and

leave it there waiting for people to start flocking to it and shar-

ing it with their friends. Remember, they want attention, too.

Any successful blogger, or musician, knows that adding friends

to their networks is going to increase their own visibility. This

doesn’t mean that you have to go against the competition.

Look for fans, or relevant parties and add them as friends.

That’s when the buzz begins.

6. Go talk to the manager

Being humble is not a bad thing. Even if you do

have a manager, it may be a good idea to speak di-

rectly to the party that is interested in you. Make

yourself accessible and show your personality. Your

audience does not want to qualify in order to reach

you. It just might be that you are not that important

to them. If they want to wait, they can schedule a

doctor’s appointment. Talk to your manager, and

find out exactly what they plan to do for you, but

don’t give away more than you need to, or you

might discover you are losing your artistic freedom

and motivation.

7. Don’t beat a dead horse

Persistence and dedication are great attributes, but

know when to step away. Take advantage of your

inspiration when it exists and not when it doesn’t. If

you are not interested in your music, neither will

anybody else. I remember hearing from a songwrit-

er that when he was having trouble with a particular

song, he would move away from the primary instru-

ment he was working with, and try to compose with

a different instrument. If after switching from guitar

to piano (as an example), you find that you are stil

struggling with the melody, move on and revisit the

song when inspiration strikes.

8. Don’t take the easy way out

Details are important. You might find that spending

money for a graphic artist to handle your cover art is

a lot better than taking a picture of your face against

a white wall, with your silhouette looming behind

you. Use an editor, or get a second set of eyes for

review. I know this sounds silly, but I have come

across many indie albums in which their song list

was grossly misspelled. Image is important. When

customers search for music, they may just choose to

preview music that has professional cover art. If

you’ve taken the time to perfect your music, take

the same time to perfect every thing else that repre-

sents your work.

Top 10 Mistakes Indie Artists Make


Alex Young April Spring Special Edition

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