Published: Monday - December 31, 2007
Words by Donny Goines
Blog by Donny Goines (Photo: Don Michaels)
I can't do it alone. If I could I wouldn't need anyone, but I am just one man. Even though I am very independent and used to making my own decisions, sometimes I have to take a backseat at times and let others drive. This is where my team comes into play.
Being an unsigned artist out here these days is tough. Not only are you competing with many other unsigned artists, but you also have to worry about many other factors such as business, publicity, etc. and you need to really be on top of you game. This is why it is very important to have other key people involved, so you can focus on what really matters -- your music. In the beginning it might be hard to find people who share the same vision, but as you continue on your journey they will come. I would start as early as possible though because the sooner you get more organized, the better.
So what kind of people do you need on your team? Every situation is different. Many various factors will determine what is needed and when, but here is, in my opinion, some of the people your core team should consist of. Main engineer: Everything starts with the music and you need to make sure you have at least one person who understands your direction, sound and abilities in the studio, so you can make the best possible music. Try to find one that is reliable and about there business. Next up, your manager (many people would assume this would be the first person you should get but if you think about it what manager would take you on with shitty music?). This person is VERY important and will help you to manage your day to day activities, plan strategies, A&R projects and everything else under the sun (Jack Danz, my manager does whatever it takes to get the job done). This is your right hand man and go to guy in this business. Make sure you find someone who believes in your music and even if there not a Blue Williams or someone that they have at least a minimal amount of knowledge in the entertainment field.
I think the next person you should find would be an entertainment lawyer. You will need a third party to help review and negotiate contracts, help you with legal matters, and several other things things pertaining to the business side of the game. Make sure this person is very professional and get references from others if possible. Unlike a manager, the lawyer will need some kind of experience to really execute their job. Last but not least, I think you should hire a publicist. My publicist (What up Mel?) is great at her job and helps to get my name everywhere possible (in fact, she's the main reason your reading this blog). Publicists (the good ones anyway) duties are basically to get you as much press as possible. Look for someone who has some kind of experience in this field or very strong relationships. This person can single handily get you in the publics eye and you need someone who is VERY aggressive.
These I think are some the the people that you need on your team starting out. Of course every situation is different and you may or not be able to have any or all of these people, but if you can I would definitely suggest to bring them aboard. You might be able to do many things but remember, you are only one person and your only as strong as those around you.
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