This week I had to prepare for a meeting over at Babygrande and I wanted to make a good impression. I gathered my CDs, one sheet (basically a stat sheet for artists, get one if you don't have it), engineer's discography, etc. to present and this still doesn't even talk about the actual music I'm bringing for them to listen to. If you haven't figured it out by now, presentation is VERY important.

Make no mistakes people, it is a CRUCIAL aspect in all areas of this business, whether it be a meeting, your music, a Myspace page or even something as simple as your appearance. When you present something, it has to be on point. Of course there are exceptions and everything doesn't always have to be 100% perfect (such as a demo), but make sure you always put your best foot forward. A lot of up and coming artists make common mistakes that I've seen first hand.

I'll give you a few tips though, regarding a typical presentation. When you are taking a meeting at a record label, distributor or other companies make sure you have all these items listed below if possible:

A) High quality demo (preferably no more then five tracks)

B) One sheet (a page containing stats and details of certain accomplishments in your career such as Myspace hits, awards, radio spins, etc.)

C) EPK (electronic press kit: this is used primarily as a one sheet, but is an electronic version and will include others things such as videos, news clippings, etc.)

D) Physical CDs and electronic links for your past projects (so they can get an idea of your past body of work)

The items listed above are all very important these days. For the most part, you want to make sure that you have physical and electronic versions of your music, media and press to present. It will set you apart from many other artists out there and will also provide concise and specific information that these people want to see.

As for meeting, who knows how it's going to go. I do know one thing though, they will be impressed with my presentation.

You can check out me and my music on my Myspace page at MySpace.com/DonnyGoines.