Ten years ago I came to LA with half a band, 3 cats, a bird, a truckload of dreams, full of excitement and ambition. We rented a house in Van Nuys and converted the garage into a recording/rehearsal studio. It was badass, there was a lot of magic in that studio, The Becoming and ANKOH were written there, we had a Blast throwing several parties at the house....riding our bicycles all over the valley, up and down the hills at 2am....I rebuild the band a bunch of times, rocked sunset strip, packed the places, sold tickets, released 2 EP's and a full length, than core members changed, my long time partner left and I had to learn to do it all on my own...with Jim's support; we kept it going....got several film/tv placements, toured the US twice...got signed to an indie label that folded.....it's been a roller coaster for sure. It's been a lot of tears and frustration but also a ton of fun, laughter, adventure and something everyone should experience. In the process of all that, I've met some amazing people here in LA as well as all over the states.
Fast forward...
Private life....different guy, different place, two of my lovely cats and the bird have left this earth...R.I.P. Freeway and Zoe & Snow....I found my black cat Johnny the first year we were here, my little princes Heidi is still here and a dog named BOLT found us! ;)
Music!!! Nothing is what I thought it would be. The band is on hiatus until the new album is out, I now compose music for film/tv, get to collaborate with some amazingly talented people who are also my friends and I'm finally working on my own project....a solo project that I've been wanting to do for years..... Ten years is a long time and when I look back and ask myself what I would do differently...hmmm.....lot's of things. But I don't want to waste my time feeling regret. It's time to focus on what I have control over. I have failed miserably at many things I've pursued over the years. But all those things have led to better, bigger things. In the big picture, I have to admit that I miss the shit out of NYC, I left a comfortable life to follow my dreams. I gave up many things for my true love. And many times the thought of leaving it all behind, the thought of quitting has crossed my mind. But I've learned that things don't always turn out exactly as you expected, however, if you keep your eye on the road and enjoy the little detours...you will create your own luck. While I'm still miles from where I want to be, I'm trusting that I am on the right path....another thing I recently learned is that quitting is not a bad thing, quite the opposite. More on that later ;)
Cheers to ten years in Holywoodz!
xoxo
JVBeast
Showing posts with label bands. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bands. Show all posts
Friday, March 29, 2013
Sunday, January 06, 2013
PASSION
There are days when I think it's time to quit. Than I play a show, look at the pictures and my heart starts to smile again. The stage is my home.
And of course having such amazingly talented friends like John King helps. He's one of my photographer friends. Great person with an I 4 The Unique! <3 xoxo JVB
And of course having such amazingly talented friends like John King helps. He's one of my photographer friends. Great person with an I 4 The Unique! <3 xoxo JVB
Saturday, January 05, 2013
Queen Of The Dragonfly
Playing our first show in Hollywood was slightly disappointing yet affirming to me that it's time to move on. Do something different. Step it up. Performing the new song felt great and so appropriate. It is time for a new chapter. Time to explore and move out of this box I've outgrown.
One thing I'm grateful for are the friends that came out. It means the world to me.
I did a few costume changes which was fun, definitely want to bring the theatrics back to life, mix music with performance art. I'm curious and excited to see where I'm heading as an artist/performer. ;)
We stayed till the end of the night, it was freezing cold out, we went to Toi, (a cool thai place on sunset that's open till 4am) with a handful of great people having fun conversations and yes, we closed that place as well.
Priceless!
One thing I'm grateful for are the friends that came out. It means the world to me.
I did a few costume changes which was fun, definitely want to bring the theatrics back to life, mix music with performance art. I'm curious and excited to see where I'm heading as an artist/performer. ;)
We stayed till the end of the night, it was freezing cold out, we went to Toi, (a cool thai place on sunset that's open till 4am) with a handful of great people having fun conversations and yes, we closed that place as well.
Priceless!
Friday, January 04, 2013
First Big Accomplishment!
It's taking me some time to get back into "work mode" but I'm not beating myself up for it. Been doing my workouts and that's a good start. I decided to focus on Otto's Daughter till tomorrow's show. Than start working on my other projects including OD.
So excited to be playing my favorite new song "Onto The Next One" tomorrow night and super proud of the guys for pulling it off in two days. Now; all I gotta figure out is an outfit and fun stuff to throw at the crowd. ;)
Today's biggest lesson:
Don't wait, don't delay, don't over-think or over-analyze, follow your gut, dive in and just do it! Take some risks! Do one thing every day that scares you. ;)
xoxo JVBeast
So excited to be playing my favorite new song "Onto The Next One" tomorrow night and super proud of the guys for pulling it off in two days. Now; all I gotta figure out is an outfit and fun stuff to throw at the crowd. ;)
Today's biggest lesson:
Don't wait, don't delay, don't over-think or over-analyze, follow your gut, dive in and just do it! Take some risks! Do one thing every day that scares you. ;)
xoxo JVBeast
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Onto The Next One
Taking a walk at 7:30 am is so refreshing, the crisp air, the morning frost on the grass and leaves, hardly anyone out. Everything feels so pure and new. It was pretty chilly for LA, than again, I'm not a morning person, maybe it's normal? I ended up walking for almost an hour, my dog Bolt loves the park as much as I do, sometimes I'm not sure who's taking who for a walk ;)
Crazy ideas pop in my head all the time and I usually dismiss them or save 'em for a later date. I've been debating whether or not to throw a brand new song at the guys and have 'em learn it for the show on friday(I'm still learning it myself) And so I decided to Just Do It! They got the song via e-mail a few hours before rehearsal. I wrote the song "Onto The Next One" last year after several weeks of writers block. It's become my new favorite, it's where I'm at in my life, it only seems appropriate to debut it at the first show of the new year.
In the past I'd often let someone convince me that we're not ready...truth is...we're never ready. I know what we are capable of, and I'm tired of playing it safe & being comfortable. Our first rehearsal after 3 months was a mess, but I'm confident we'll nail it tomorrow. ;)
ch....ch....changes.......
Crazy ideas pop in my head all the time and I usually dismiss them or save 'em for a later date. I've been debating whether or not to throw a brand new song at the guys and have 'em learn it for the show on friday(I'm still learning it myself) And so I decided to Just Do It! They got the song via e-mail a few hours before rehearsal. I wrote the song "Onto The Next One" last year after several weeks of writers block. It's become my new favorite, it's where I'm at in my life, it only seems appropriate to debut it at the first show of the new year.
In the past I'd often let someone convince me that we're not ready...truth is...we're never ready. I know what we are capable of, and I'm tired of playing it safe & being comfortable. Our first rehearsal after 3 months was a mess, but I'm confident we'll nail it tomorrow. ;)
ch....ch....changes.......
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Where's the Cash Cow?
While the music business seems all glamor and colorful, behind the scenes...not so much.
The majors are becoming the minority and the indies are blooming. The industry has changed over the years and there's not much one can do other than get creative and adopt to the new times in the digital world. Even The Beatles finally released all there music on Itunes. Can you imagine all the money they missed out on???
Many musicians raised their voices a few years back, adapting to the new way of music distribution (or shall we say free downloads) by offering their music for free, like Trent Reznor for example. Well, these artists, although independent now, still have no clue what independent really means. After all, they established their fan base through a major label, so yes, they got ripped off by their label but they would've never had what they have without them, so after all it's still a win/win.
What used to sadden me is that I've heard many stories about major labels blowing money out the window, just because they have a budget to blow.
I thought, man, give me that amount and I'll show you how to properly use it. But why waste my energy on something that's irrelevant. They do what they do and usually don't even care about their artist.
I buy music. I have to admit that I prefer buying on itunes. CD's clutter up my space and I upload it to my itunes anyway. I do buy CD's once in a while. Of course people do what they want and I can't control any of that but I can educate you a little on what goes into running a band without any outside financial support.
Here's a little breakdown to let you know what it costs. Let's say, a band is about to release a new album and is planning a tour.
1. Rehearsal studio (usually monthly lockout space) average costs $300 a month if band splits the room with another band (rooms are btw $400-$1000)
2. Websites, Webstore, EPK's, Sonicbids Submissions to festivals, web hosting, usually around $20 - $100/month (sonicbids, reverbnation, bigcartel)
While not all artists need to get a pro to record and produce their album, some have the talent and the equipment to do a lot themselves, hiring a pro to get that pro-level sound...costs money.
3. Recording with a producer/engineer (Btw $500-$2500 per song)
4. Mixing (average $500 per song)
5. Mastering (average $80-$1500 per song)
6. Release a single (online) artist pays 9.99
7. Release an EP or full length album (online) artists pays between $40-$50 (depending on distributor(cdbaby or Tunecore)
8. Merchandise.
a) Shirts , btw $4-10 per shirt, depending on quality and printing, how many screens and colors. So if a band orders 48 shirts times $5 - $240
Not including other cool things like thongs, hoodies, which are usually a bit more expensive than shirts.
b) CD's It's about a $1300 to $1500 for 1000 CD's, depending on how many pages, with tax and shipping, if you get only 500 CD's, you'll still pay about $780 or so, even a short run of a 100 will cost about $275.
9. A van, it costs about $75-$95 a day to rent a van, if you own a van, you have to buy a reliable van (average $3500 -$8000 for a decent van + upkeep)
10. Trailer starts at around $1200 and up
11. Gear/Equipment (Computer, DAW's (ProTools, Sonar, Logic, Cubase, Nuendo), plug in's, drum sticks, skins, guitar strings, batteries, cables, amps, guitars, microphones) Anywhere btw $800- $25.000 easily
12. Personal bills, rent, phonebill, utilities, internet and food (the basics) Here in LA close to $1000/month min per person (yes, it's not really band related but still part of the musicians reliability)
13. Music Lessons btw, $35-$100/hour (optional)
If it's a true band, usually every member ships in, if the band is run by one or two people, they usually carry all the costs upfront. And that's not counting any lights, stage clothing, music video, radio promotion, or any pr, stage prop's or food on the road. So the next time you want music for FREE, think about this...would you work for FREE if your boss told you he won't pay for your services?
Hope this will shed a little light on what goes on behind the curtains and makes you realize, being in a band (pro band) is work and requires money. It's a business. Every business needs to make money to stay in business. This is not a complain, but an explanation to you why indies appreciate it when their fans are willing to pay $0.99 for a single or whatever for an album.
There are many ways for bands to raise money and create income from their music...and that's gonna be my next blog!!!
Enjoy and please spread this around to raise awareness!
xoxo
JVBeast
_
The majors are becoming the minority and the indies are blooming. The industry has changed over the years and there's not much one can do other than get creative and adopt to the new times in the digital world. Even The Beatles finally released all there music on Itunes. Can you imagine all the money they missed out on???
Many musicians raised their voices a few years back, adapting to the new way of music distribution (or shall we say free downloads) by offering their music for free, like Trent Reznor for example. Well, these artists, although independent now, still have no clue what independent really means. After all, they established their fan base through a major label, so yes, they got ripped off by their label but they would've never had what they have without them, so after all it's still a win/win.
What used to sadden me is that I've heard many stories about major labels blowing money out the window, just because they have a budget to blow.
I thought, man, give me that amount and I'll show you how to properly use it. But why waste my energy on something that's irrelevant. They do what they do and usually don't even care about their artist.
I buy music. I have to admit that I prefer buying on itunes. CD's clutter up my space and I upload it to my itunes anyway. I do buy CD's once in a while. Of course people do what they want and I can't control any of that but I can educate you a little on what goes into running a band without any outside financial support.
Here's a little breakdown to let you know what it costs. Let's say, a band is about to release a new album and is planning a tour.
1. Rehearsal studio (usually monthly lockout space) average costs $300 a month if band splits the room with another band (rooms are btw $400-$1000)
2. Websites, Webstore, EPK's, Sonicbids Submissions to festivals, web hosting, usually around $20 - $100/month (sonicbids, reverbnation, bigcartel)
While not all artists need to get a pro to record and produce their album, some have the talent and the equipment to do a lot themselves, hiring a pro to get that pro-level sound...costs money.
3. Recording with a producer/engineer (Btw $500-$2500 per song)
4. Mixing (average $500 per song)
5. Mastering (average $80-$1500 per song)
6. Release a single (online) artist pays 9.99
7. Release an EP or full length album (online) artists pays between $40-$50 (depending on distributor(cdbaby or Tunecore)
8. Merchandise.
a) Shirts , btw $4-10 per shirt, depending on quality and printing, how many screens and colors. So if a band orders 48 shirts times $5 - $240
Not including other cool things like thongs, hoodies, which are usually a bit more expensive than shirts.
b) CD's It's about a $1300 to $1500 for 1000 CD's, depending on how many pages, with tax and shipping, if you get only 500 CD's, you'll still pay about $780 or so, even a short run of a 100 will cost about $275.
9. A van, it costs about $75-$95 a day to rent a van, if you own a van, you have to buy a reliable van (average $3500 -$8000 for a decent van + upkeep)
10. Trailer starts at around $1200 and up
11. Gear/Equipment (Computer, DAW's (ProTools, Sonar, Logic, Cubase, Nuendo), plug in's, drum sticks, skins, guitar strings, batteries, cables, amps, guitars, microphones) Anywhere btw $800- $25.000 easily
12. Personal bills, rent, phonebill, utilities, internet and food (the basics) Here in LA close to $1000/month min per person (yes, it's not really band related but still part of the musicians reliability)
13. Music Lessons btw, $35-$100/hour (optional)
If it's a true band, usually every member ships in, if the band is run by one or two people, they usually carry all the costs upfront. And that's not counting any lights, stage clothing, music video, radio promotion, or any pr, stage prop's or food on the road. So the next time you want music for FREE, think about this...would you work for FREE if your boss told you he won't pay for your services?
Hope this will shed a little light on what goes on behind the curtains and makes you realize, being in a band (pro band) is work and requires money. It's a business. Every business needs to make money to stay in business. This is not a complain, but an explanation to you why indies appreciate it when their fans are willing to pay $0.99 for a single or whatever for an album.
There are many ways for bands to raise money and create income from their music...and that's gonna be my next blog!!!
Enjoy and please spread this around to raise awareness!
xoxo
JVBeast
_
Monday, December 13, 2010
Win A Schecter Guitar!
Christmas in the land of OD doesn't get any better than this. We are giving away a Schecter Guitar! To Enter purchase anything from our bigcartel store before December 18th! Good luck!
Monday, November 08, 2010
Happiness and Bliss!
When surrounded by like minded beings, people who are truly living their dreams you can't help but feel LOVE! And that's what live is all about!
Once a year I attend the Road Rally, a music conference held by TAXI. This was my fifth Rally, it's one of my favorite things to do and something I look forward to all year.
Every year I learn more about my industry, I meet more people who become life long friends, collaborators and/or business partners. I got to hear some extremely successful people talk about their careers, their ways of staying fresh and excited in the ever changing world of music and nothing is more inspiring than hearing people who have been in the business for several decades talk with such passion, excitement and bliss about music.
I feel happy, energized, inspired and ALIVE! Whatever it is you are passionate about, surround yourself with like-minded people and go after your dreams....and make 'em BIG!
Cheers to a blissful day!
Play "Living The Dream"! Make it your mantra!
Once a year I attend the Road Rally, a music conference held by TAXI. This was my fifth Rally, it's one of my favorite things to do and something I look forward to all year.
Every year I learn more about my industry, I meet more people who become life long friends, collaborators and/or business partners. I got to hear some extremely successful people talk about their careers, their ways of staying fresh and excited in the ever changing world of music and nothing is more inspiring than hearing people who have been in the business for several decades talk with such passion, excitement and bliss about music.
I feel happy, energized, inspired and ALIVE! Whatever it is you are passionate about, surround yourself with like-minded people and go after your dreams....and make 'em BIG!
Cheers to a blissful day!
Play "Living The Dream"! Make it your mantra!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Let it rain....
The rain and three cats purring on my bed make it really hard to get up early. I managed to get out of bed around 9:30am, got my workout in and even had breakfast before my 11am student.
Pretty good accomplishment before noon! I like that. Something about accomplishing little things early in the day turns my whole mood and motivation up a notch, makes me feel great and want to do more.
After all, we were meant to be productive, have a purpose and go for what we want and love. That doesn't mean going to a job you hate (that's not productive, that's actually soul-drenching)
I made some phone calls, sent some e-mails, learned a few new things about some plugin's; took care of some more important business and received a very pleasant call.
Let's just say that certain people are meant to be in your life and always will be part of your life and it's a very good thing (because it's our choice). That phone call had me even more fired up, I got extremely inspired and excited about the possibility of some future collaborations. Something I've been wanting to do for a while.
I had some computer problems which turned my creativity to null. At first I got kinda frustrated since I really wanted to finish at least one of the 30 tracks I have to have done by February15th but than I realized, I'm just not in a creative flow at the moment and it's okay.
I'm one of those who can't write anything for a week; than bursts out 5 songs at once. I learned to be okay with that and just go with the flow rather than beat myself up and try to force magic. it just doesn't work. After my 5pm student someone took me to Little Tony's for some real italian food and a glas of Merlow. How can I say no? Hahahaha
I watch it rain, wash away, the road is clear and clean and ours to take!
Raindrops & LightingSparks
JVBlossom
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
A little more truth a little less bs
Happy 2010. Better late than never. hahahaha, are you fully back in your old routine? I hope not.
It's a new Decade, let's rock it! My year started off great with a cool NYE party with some of my best friends followed by an 80's Birthday Bash Party and NAMM.
We played the Friday Schecter Party, introduced a new song and I won a plug-in that I've had on my wish list for a while UAD2 Duo; plus a set of headphones from Monster. wohooooooooooo
Not to mention I met and talked to my favorite guitar player Robyn Fink at Saturday's Party. I had so much fun during NAMM. I'm still amazed how I got through the show, I had such a hang-over. Not smart to party the day before the show, but c'mon, sometimes you gotta do whatcha gotta do and with such amazing company how could I turn down an Asbach Uralt or a glas of Merlow. hahahaha (Well, I paid the price friday morning)
So here I am, I've been meaning to blog, even wanted to blog the entire NAMM show but I tend to be an extreme person with extreme ADD.
So many books too read, songs to finish, band stuff...blah blah blah...don't get me wrong, I love what I do; well....you get the idea. While I'm really striving for consistancy in regards to my online presence I have to admit that I'm either on or off all the way; which means a ton of posts or nothing at all.
I decided not to make any New Years Resolutions for 2010 since I never quite stick with them anyway, so instead I will do my best to commit to a daily blog, even if it's just a line to check in.
In all honestly I'm selfishly making myself feel more accountable if I have to write about my day (says who?...hahahaha...I do) And maybe I'll even promote this and get more followers, hee hee
Since I've been back from NAMM I've been kinda sick and haven't been in the mood to write music or I should say, energy. Instead I've been dealing with some business stuff I have been avoiding for some time. For some reason, it's always a drag to do the business crap, filling out a ton of forms, dealing with legalities. But it has to be done, so I've actually taken some time to get control over the situation and a clear picture of what is in place and what needs to be put in place.
Today I made a show flyer (out of two kinda crappy photo's I took of myself). hahahaha. Spend some time on facebook, myspace and reverbnation. Funny, the minute I sit down and do nothing, I feel like I haven't done a damn thing all day. While when at the end of the day when I write out my main accomplishments; I'm always amazed how much I got done; (talking about being to hard on myself).
Well, enough said, my theraflu is kicking in and I've got to finish reading "Mixerman" so I can move on with my life, hahahaha. True story or all bullshit, I'm digging it. And you know what?; it's all bullshit anyway but that's for another blog;)
Truly Yours,
JVBullshitter
It's a new Decade, let's rock it! My year started off great with a cool NYE party with some of my best friends followed by an 80's Birthday Bash Party and NAMM.
We played the Friday Schecter Party, introduced a new song and I won a plug-in that I've had on my wish list for a while UAD2 Duo; plus a set of headphones from Monster. wohooooooooooo
Not to mention I met and talked to my favorite guitar player Robyn Fink at Saturday's Party. I had so much fun during NAMM. I'm still amazed how I got through the show, I had such a hang-over. Not smart to party the day before the show, but c'mon, sometimes you gotta do whatcha gotta do and with such amazing company how could I turn down an Asbach Uralt or a glas of Merlow. hahahaha (Well, I paid the price friday morning)
So here I am, I've been meaning to blog, even wanted to blog the entire NAMM show but I tend to be an extreme person with extreme ADD.
So many books too read, songs to finish, band stuff...blah blah blah...don't get me wrong, I love what I do; well....you get the idea. While I'm really striving for consistancy in regards to my online presence I have to admit that I'm either on or off all the way; which means a ton of posts or nothing at all.
I decided not to make any New Years Resolutions for 2010 since I never quite stick with them anyway, so instead I will do my best to commit to a daily blog, even if it's just a line to check in.
In all honestly I'm selfishly making myself feel more accountable if I have to write about my day (says who?...hahahaha...I do) And maybe I'll even promote this and get more followers, hee hee
Since I've been back from NAMM I've been kinda sick and haven't been in the mood to write music or I should say, energy. Instead I've been dealing with some business stuff I have been avoiding for some time. For some reason, it's always a drag to do the business crap, filling out a ton of forms, dealing with legalities. But it has to be done, so I've actually taken some time to get control over the situation and a clear picture of what is in place and what needs to be put in place.
Today I made a show flyer (out of two kinda crappy photo's I took of myself). hahahaha. Spend some time on facebook, myspace and reverbnation. Funny, the minute I sit down and do nothing, I feel like I haven't done a damn thing all day. While when at the end of the day when I write out my main accomplishments; I'm always amazed how much I got done; (talking about being to hard on myself).
Well, enough said, my theraflu is kicking in and I've got to finish reading "Mixerman" so I can move on with my life, hahahaha. True story or all bullshit, I'm digging it. And you know what?; it's all bullshit anyway but that's for another blog;)
Truly Yours,
JVBullshitter
Sunday, December 06, 2009
How about that deal?
Life is all about options. If you are an Otto's Daughter/PinkStar fan, you've got plenty of options starting today, we offering some special online deals until December 25th! You pick and choose what fits your budget and taste;) Enjoy!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
It's Ga-Galishious
Here's the perfect world of music, art and fashion and who's really better these days than Lady GaGa? At least in today's music pop market? Love her or hate her, here's a great musician, singer/songwriter, performer, entertainer and artist!
What can I say? I'm a sucker for pop and I love different and extravagant! I liked Lady GaGa right from the beginning but really fell in love with her when I saw her during her 2009 VH1 Video Awards performance. I got chills. I understand many don't get her and were actually shocked and confused. When I started out with my band Otto's Daughter I used stage blood and crazy costumes, so her act truly resonates with me. I appreciate her weirdness and shock value to the masses and I'm glad someone out there on a major label is going to the extreme.
Ga Ga is Brittney meets Marilyn Manson, the perfect combination if you ask me. It's beautiful yet disturbing. Besides the visuals, her tracks are extremely hooky, you'll be singing along whether you like her or not! Ha! That's what hit songs do to you! She's got great lyrics and the pipes to back it all up. Not only that; she's a talented musician who has written several hit songs for other artists including Brittney and the Pussycat Dolls. Her latest video "Bad Romance" is beautiful, a great mixture of music, art and fashion, of course with Alexander McQueen in the mix how could it not be great? He's one of my favorite designers out there.
If you haven't yet, check out her new video here it is! "Bad Romance" Enjoy! Congrats Lady Ga Ga, I love you even more now. You not only deliver, you inspire the heck out of me! She's a perfect example, and for all who can't read the signs, even if you don't get her, don't like her or could care less about the world of Ga Ga;
Dare to be different!Dare to be unique!
xXx
JVB
What can I say? I'm a sucker for pop and I love different and extravagant! I liked Lady GaGa right from the beginning but really fell in love with her when I saw her during her 2009 VH1 Video Awards performance. I got chills. I understand many don't get her and were actually shocked and confused. When I started out with my band Otto's Daughter I used stage blood and crazy costumes, so her act truly resonates with me. I appreciate her weirdness and shock value to the masses and I'm glad someone out there on a major label is going to the extreme.
Ga Ga is Brittney meets Marilyn Manson, the perfect combination if you ask me. It's beautiful yet disturbing. Besides the visuals, her tracks are extremely hooky, you'll be singing along whether you like her or not! Ha! That's what hit songs do to you! She's got great lyrics and the pipes to back it all up. Not only that; she's a talented musician who has written several hit songs for other artists including Brittney and the Pussycat Dolls. Her latest video "Bad Romance" is beautiful, a great mixture of music, art and fashion, of course with Alexander McQueen in the mix how could it not be great? He's one of my favorite designers out there.
If you haven't yet, check out her new video here it is! "Bad Romance" Enjoy! Congrats Lady Ga Ga, I love you even more now. You not only deliver, you inspire the heck out of me! She's a perfect example, and for all who can't read the signs, even if you don't get her, don't like her or could care less about the world of Ga Ga;Dare to be different!Dare to be unique!
xXx
JVB
Monday, November 09, 2009
If you can live without it, do it!
I spent the entire weekend around people who are very much like me. Musicians! I went to the annual Taxi Road Rally; learned new things about the music business, was reminded of the things I already know, networked with people in the industry and most importantly reconnected with great friends and collaborators of mine having a great time. I look forward to this event the entire year. And every year becomes more fun.
It amazes me how many musicians don't take advantage of this incredible opportunity. People from all over the world fly out to be part of this. I met people from Switzerland, Italy, Brazil, Australia and England. Incredible!
Besides learning about the changes in the industry, there's nothing more inspiring than listening to some mega successful people talk about their 15 year overnight success, their struggles, their passion for music, how they let nothing get in their way to make their dreams come true and the pay off. One of the panelists gave the greatest advice ever, he said: "my advice to you is; if you can live without it, live without it, quit! If you can't, well than you have no choice but to keep going". It hit home for me, there were several times throughout my music career where I thought about "quitting" but how can I cut off the very thing that keeps me alive? No way! Today I can proudly say that I have accomplished quite a bit and have gotten some mailbox money, which I love;)
Often, I choose staying home writing music over going out. My friends say I work so hard but what they don't understand is that this is not work to me, this is what I love to do. Plus ; I'm working for me; it's not like I'm busting my ass for someone else with no future benefits. Being social is also important, especially for live performers but when you are in a flow, you don't want to stop, you can't. Thankfully my friends respect and understand that.
With all this said, I encourage everyone out there; Do what you love! Live your dream and do whatever it takes. It's the most satisfying thing in the world and sooner or later it will pay off.
So what are you going to do today?
It amazes me how many musicians don't take advantage of this incredible opportunity. People from all over the world fly out to be part of this. I met people from Switzerland, Italy, Brazil, Australia and England. Incredible!Besides learning about the changes in the industry, there's nothing more inspiring than listening to some mega successful people talk about their 15 year overnight success, their struggles, their passion for music, how they let nothing get in their way to make their dreams come true and the pay off. One of the panelists gave the greatest advice ever, he said: "my advice to you is; if you can live without it, live without it, quit! If you can't, well than you have no choice but to keep going". It hit home for me, there were several times throughout my music career where I thought about "quitting" but how can I cut off the very thing that keeps me alive? No way! Today I can proudly say that I have accomplished quite a bit and have gotten some mailbox money, which I love;)
Often, I choose staying home writing music over going out. My friends say I work so hard but what they don't understand is that this is not work to me, this is what I love to do. Plus ; I'm working for me; it's not like I'm busting my ass for someone else with no future benefits. Being social is also important, especially for live performers but when you are in a flow, you don't want to stop, you can't. Thankfully my friends respect and understand that.
With all this said, I encourage everyone out there; Do what you love! Live your dream and do whatever it takes. It's the most satisfying thing in the world and sooner or later it will pay off.So what are you going to do today?
Monday, October 12, 2009
Zip It!
The Universe does guide us!I came across an article published by Derek Sivers a while ago talking about the announcement of intentions. I really needed to read this. Do you?
I used to announce my intentions, a) I'm excited, b) I'll really have to do it, since I announced it right? Well, luckily, results speak louder than words. Truth is. NO. I hardly ever finished what I had announced. Now I know why. (or at least have found an excuse, lol) Have fun reading it, it makes a ton of sense; so from now on, let us "shut it" till it's complete! Than share it with the world.
http://www.sivers.org/zipit
I used to announce my intentions, a) I'm excited, b) I'll really have to do it, since I announced it right? Well, luckily, results speak louder than words. Truth is. NO. I hardly ever finished what I had announced. Now I know why. (or at least have found an excuse, lol) Have fun reading it, it makes a ton of sense; so from now on, let us "shut it" till it's complete! Than share it with the world.
http://www.sivers.org/zipit
Monday, August 17, 2009
Destination "Fan Appreciation"
Let's face it, musicians don't like the idea of giving Music away for FREE.
Just because it's a trend doesn't mean we have to like it, but of course we have to adopt and find new ways for revenue streams.
So what's the big deal about getting your music for FREE anyway?
Just think about this for a moment; unless you were born rich, you probably have a job to earn a living. You get paid for your services (like you should). Either you have a boss or you are your own boss. What if people used your services without paying you? Hmmmm....have fun paying your bills with love and appreciation!
Making music is a Business. It takes time, money and dedication to make a song, to write and produce an album. Just like any business, there are a lot of costs involved, from recording equipment, instruments, a home studio, producer, someone who'll mix the songs, mastering to duplication; and it doesn't stop there. Without promotion the best music in the world can and often will go unnoticed.
An indie record can easily cost anywhere btw $10,000 and $35,000.[A major label spends easily $50,000 and up; and those costs don't include Marketing, PR, Radio Promotion, Touring for either)
Is paying $0.99 for a song from an artist you love and believe in really break your bank? Or even $10-$15 bucks for a full length album?
An unsigned band goes on tour; guess what? It costs money to tour; getting a reliable vehicle, trailer, gas, food, personal bills like rent and phone bills, making merchandise to sell merchandise. Indie bands often play a lot of "big rock shows" in very small clubs with a crowd between 5-20 people. Now that doesn't cover much of the costs.
While bands have to find a way to make it happen, (and there are a lot of ways to make things happen)a huge part of a bands success is the fanbase. The fans are the ones who can really help make it happen.
Imagine you would've been The One who actually helped break "Linkin Park", "MGMT" or "The Muse"? That's a pretty huge accomplishment that could lead to a lot of great opportunities for you, personally and professionally.
Music lovers often think they are "just" music lovers when in reality, they are A&R people, they are PR people, they are radio people, they are VIP's! ;)
So why not turn your passion (listening to great music, finding new great bands, going to shows) into a part time or even full time profession or just a cool hobby?
While you enjoy the FREE music why not "give back" just a little to help your favorite unsigned artists to "Stay in Business"!
Here are a few things you can do to help! It's a win/win situation!
1. Represent!Be the A&R guy/girl!
Spread the word! Become a PR machine! Promote a list of songs, albums and merch with available tools like a widget from Ilike or Reverbnation on your social networking sites or message boards. Create your own banners.
2. Make your own Rules and Be a Trend Setter!
Start your own online radioshow! Star a player in Ilike, Facebook, Myspace, LastFM, Reverbnation. Make a playlist of your favorite songs and artists and provide links to their pages and music. Get your listeners involed, have them vote, request songs and suggest new artists! You'll promote awesome music and discover new music, creating a cool network of like-minded people.
3. Start your own Music Magazine Online!
Write about what you'd love to read about, get other writers involved! How fun! You can even generate income by putting google ads on your blog or website.
4. Be a Street Team Captain/Leader.
Create a fanpage on facebook or myspace, promote the bands pages and music, help promote shows, encourage others to spread the word.
5. Make a "Scene"
Create your own scene by putting on a show in your local area. Book 3 or 4 bands, get sponsors involved, get your friends involved. Get your local radio station and magazines involved. Charge an Admission fee to be able to pay the bands some money. Make a deal with the club, venue, bar. (What you're really doing is booking your own personal show, how cool is that?)
6. DONATE!
Get all the music for FREE and donate a little cash gift to your favorite band. Start your own donation campaign or encourage your band to put a donation button on their page so you can help them get some support for the tour and/or recordings.
7. Join the family
Be in contact with the band, I bet you'll be on their guest list for every single show, probably get free merchandise, get invited to all the cool parties and events they attend, you'll be part of the family, now imagine your band "breaks"? Guess what? You'll get to meet all the big shots, big bands, the "untouchables", you'll be backstage at the huge festivals, arena concerts. It happens all the time.
Not only will you be surrounded by what you love and are passionate about, who knows, maybe you'll end up being the next big Manager, A&R, Label or Radio Promoter. Either way, you'll have a great time and enjoy life!
While music is available for free, we don't want to see the quality of music go down, we don't want to hear less from our favorite bands because they don't have the budget to make another record or are too busy at their day job, we don't want to see bands stay home because they can't afford to tour.
I'm not stating nor do I believe in "starving artists" mentality, I believe that by bringing fans and music together, we can make waves, create our own scene and make things happen!
Support what you are passionate about and help make a difference. Now; that makes giving music away for FREE quite fun and a complete win/win situation for everyone involved.
Don't you think?
Just because it's a trend doesn't mean we have to like it, but of course we have to adopt and find new ways for revenue streams.
So what's the big deal about getting your music for FREE anyway?
Just think about this for a moment; unless you were born rich, you probably have a job to earn a living. You get paid for your services (like you should). Either you have a boss or you are your own boss. What if people used your services without paying you? Hmmmm....have fun paying your bills with love and appreciation!
Making music is a Business. It takes time, money and dedication to make a song, to write and produce an album. Just like any business, there are a lot of costs involved, from recording equipment, instruments, a home studio, producer, someone who'll mix the songs, mastering to duplication; and it doesn't stop there. Without promotion the best music in the world can and often will go unnoticed.
An indie record can easily cost anywhere btw $10,000 and $35,000.[A major label spends easily $50,000 and up; and those costs don't include Marketing, PR, Radio Promotion, Touring for either)
Is paying $0.99 for a song from an artist you love and believe in really break your bank? Or even $10-$15 bucks for a full length album?
An unsigned band goes on tour; guess what? It costs money to tour; getting a reliable vehicle, trailer, gas, food, personal bills like rent and phone bills, making merchandise to sell merchandise. Indie bands often play a lot of "big rock shows" in very small clubs with a crowd between 5-20 people. Now that doesn't cover much of the costs.
While bands have to find a way to make it happen, (and there are a lot of ways to make things happen)a huge part of a bands success is the fanbase. The fans are the ones who can really help make it happen.
Imagine you would've been The One who actually helped break "Linkin Park", "MGMT" or "The Muse"? That's a pretty huge accomplishment that could lead to a lot of great opportunities for you, personally and professionally.
Music lovers often think they are "just" music lovers when in reality, they are A&R people, they are PR people, they are radio people, they are VIP's! ;)
So why not turn your passion (listening to great music, finding new great bands, going to shows) into a part time or even full time profession or just a cool hobby?
While you enjoy the FREE music why not "give back" just a little to help your favorite unsigned artists to "Stay in Business"!
Here are a few things you can do to help! It's a win/win situation!
1. Represent!Be the A&R guy/girl!
Spread the word! Become a PR machine! Promote a list of songs, albums and merch with available tools like a widget from Ilike or Reverbnation on your social networking sites or message boards. Create your own banners.
2. Make your own Rules and Be a Trend Setter!
Start your own online radioshow! Star a player in Ilike, Facebook, Myspace, LastFM, Reverbnation. Make a playlist of your favorite songs and artists and provide links to their pages and music. Get your listeners involed, have them vote, request songs and suggest new artists! You'll promote awesome music and discover new music, creating a cool network of like-minded people.
3. Start your own Music Magazine Online!
Write about what you'd love to read about, get other writers involved! How fun! You can even generate income by putting google ads on your blog or website.
4. Be a Street Team Captain/Leader.
Create a fanpage on facebook or myspace, promote the bands pages and music, help promote shows, encourage others to spread the word.
5. Make a "Scene"
Create your own scene by putting on a show in your local area. Book 3 or 4 bands, get sponsors involved, get your friends involved. Get your local radio station and magazines involved. Charge an Admission fee to be able to pay the bands some money. Make a deal with the club, venue, bar. (What you're really doing is booking your own personal show, how cool is that?)
6. DONATE!
Get all the music for FREE and donate a little cash gift to your favorite band. Start your own donation campaign or encourage your band to put a donation button on their page so you can help them get some support for the tour and/or recordings.
7. Join the family
Be in contact with the band, I bet you'll be on their guest list for every single show, probably get free merchandise, get invited to all the cool parties and events they attend, you'll be part of the family, now imagine your band "breaks"? Guess what? You'll get to meet all the big shots, big bands, the "untouchables", you'll be backstage at the huge festivals, arena concerts. It happens all the time.
Not only will you be surrounded by what you love and are passionate about, who knows, maybe you'll end up being the next big Manager, A&R, Label or Radio Promoter. Either way, you'll have a great time and enjoy life!
While music is available for free, we don't want to see the quality of music go down, we don't want to hear less from our favorite bands because they don't have the budget to make another record or are too busy at their day job, we don't want to see bands stay home because they can't afford to tour.
I'm not stating nor do I believe in "starving artists" mentality, I believe that by bringing fans and music together, we can make waves, create our own scene and make things happen!
Support what you are passionate about and help make a difference. Now; that makes giving music away for FREE quite fun and a complete win/win situation for everyone involved.
Don't you think?
Sunday, July 12, 2009
All OD and PinkStar Merch available right here
I spend some quality time today digging into Reverbnation & Facebook. With so many SNS, it's so important to find a way to keep everything up to date and organized. The new Single Monsters will be available on Tunecore shortly, so keep checking back!!! Great things are happening, we have many little surprises coming up!
Please follow us on twitter!!! http://www.twitter.com/pinkstarrocks
Scroll all the way down to see the OD and PinkStar merch!!!
xXx
JVB
Please follow us on twitter!!! http://www.twitter.com/pinkstarrocks
Scroll all the way down to see the OD and PinkStar merch!!!
xXx
JVB
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
The Big Picture
I've been wanting to write more blogs, be more active on here but there's just so much music flowing out of me lately that I've started to love twitter much more. It's short and to the point and I'm still connected to the world.
It's hard for me to stay focused. My mind is always working. I've got so many things in my head, there are so many roads to explore, so many things I want to do.
For the past two weeks, I've getting up at 7am, doing my power walk with my fabulous man. This is huge for me; I don't get up early, even though I love the morning vibe, the smell in the air, everything is still slightly damp and quite.
Now, I don't mind it at all, half way into my first round in the park, I feel energized, alive, happy, motivated and already accomplished. I've been also going hiking quite a bit lately, more than usual, there are so many beautiful spots here in LA. It's just magical. I am a nature girl. Anything outside makes me smile, the dogs, squirrels, trees, flowers, the ocean, the people.
Life has been pretty magical lately, many changes are happening and they are all good and exciting. I feel closer to a lot of my friends and extremely grateful for them.
PS: I can't wait to share my and our new music with the world, with that said, I better get back to my music. While my focus is on the big picture, I take one step at a time. I'm so excited but have to be a little bit patient right now:)
muah
xXx
JVB
It's hard for me to stay focused. My mind is always working. I've got so many things in my head, there are so many roads to explore, so many things I want to do.
For the past two weeks, I've getting up at 7am, doing my power walk with my fabulous man. This is huge for me; I don't get up early, even though I love the morning vibe, the smell in the air, everything is still slightly damp and quite.
Now, I don't mind it at all, half way into my first round in the park, I feel energized, alive, happy, motivated and already accomplished. I've been also going hiking quite a bit lately, more than usual, there are so many beautiful spots here in LA. It's just magical. I am a nature girl. Anything outside makes me smile, the dogs, squirrels, trees, flowers, the ocean, the people.
Life has been pretty magical lately, many changes are happening and they are all good and exciting. I feel closer to a lot of my friends and extremely grateful for them.
PS: I can't wait to share my and our new music with the world, with that said, I better get back to my music. While my focus is on the big picture, I take one step at a time. I'm so excited but have to be a little bit patient right now:)
muah
xXx
JVB
Monday, June 29, 2009
Transformation
Time for change, Big Change. New Beginnings! Otto's Daughter has been changing direction, the only thing that didn't change was the name. It's been in the back of my mind for a few years now. With nothing to lose and everything to gain Otto's Daughter has become Pink Star and we are extremely excited about it. Since Jim and I started collaborating, we have become a new band, a new core.
Of course I'll always be Otto's Daughter, no matter what; and there will be releases in the near future, maybe even some OD shows but for now ALL of our FOCUS will be on new PINK STAR music. We plan on releasing one new single every month following a full length in late November.
xXx
JVB
Of course I'll always be Otto's Daughter, no matter what; and there will be releases in the near future, maybe even some OD shows but for now ALL of our FOCUS will be on new PINK STAR music. We plan on releasing one new single every month following a full length in late November.
xXx
JVB
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
In the Fast Lane
One thing for sure, when you are on the road, you somewhat lose touch with a lot of things that are important to you; it's a whole different world, there's the road, the shows, new faces, stories, sleep somewhere in between, different places you stay, sometimes you have access to the internet sometimes you don't. I wanted to work on music but that didn't happen. There's so much to share and blog about, I will have to organize it or maybe just randomize it ;)
Now that I'm back home, I realize how many projects I've put on hold; I really have to make some major decisions about my priorities and time management. Doesn't that sound like a ton of fun-less tasking? A little bit however, I decided right now that I can handle it all and that it is OK to delegate and ask for support!
After all, I am in control of me. I run my life. None of that autopilot nonsense.
Crack the Whip JVB, it's time to get producive and create miracles!
I shall return soon.
xXx
JVB
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Topping the Top
So far I must say my 3 favorite shows on this tour have been Washington DC, Turner Hall in Qunicy and Somewhere Else Tavern in Greensboro. I've been keeping a journal of this whole tour and will publish it once we are back home when I have 24/7 internet access. Only 2 more shows as of right now, kinda bummed out; I'm still working on getting at least 3 more on the way home. We might have to crash a party somewhere;)
xoxox
JVB
xoxox
JVB
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