Steve Scott & Judy Lamppu

There are a many music organizations that provide learning, networking and performance opportunities. If one is a songwriter, musician or singer with any degree of ambition and serious intent to career success, one must seize the various opportunities that these music organizations offer.

Of course there are also the somewhat pricey conferences and expos of big organizations, and many of these are also solid professional experiences. Listening to the pros give great advice on how to, where to and why can be very enlightening. Making key introductions to industry leaders and cementing working relationships with peers and potential collaborators can also be an important part of these major events.

But outside of these pricey retreats, conferences, fairs and expos, there exists this whole plethora of learning opportunities being presented on almost a weekly basis by any number of organizations catering to music makers who are building their careers.

Our COSMO organization stages such events on a regular basis such as the one this past April15^th at the Guitar Merchant in Canoga Park. That event featured producer, Joe Solo, who dispensed some great information on the recording, mixing, studio process and how to get the most out of your recording efforts. Those attending brought their material to play live or spin and got some great tips on what recording elements could be added to enhance the tracks. Joe played before and after examples from previous sessions to emphasize how productive the experience could be. I was impressed by the quality of those who attended and how invested they were in their music. These events have been available for a small $10.00 donation, an amount that will definitely not break the bank but helps defray the expenses. (go to www.JoeSolo.com ) (see photo above of attendees)

Coming in late summer (date pending), COSMO will present all you singer/performers the opportunity to spend an evening in a master workshop with vocal and performance coach Elisabeth Howard. Liz is one of the truly great vocal coaches here inLos Angeles. She has presented her techniques throughout the world to other professional vocal coaches and music teachers in the major cities ofItalyandFrance, and with regular invitations to present her specialty around the world. She is a former president of NATS, National Association of Teachers of Singing, and has many amazing career highlights. She is a graduate of Juilliard Conservatory and recently toured as a panelist of Julliard graduates to introduce students to the opportunities of higher education geared toward being a professional in the performing arts.

I have witnessed first-hand the dynamic improvements of singers who have attended just this one workshop. For this event, thanks to our COSMO sponsors, we have again kept the costs to $10.00.  Let me suggest that whether or not you feel inclined or have interest in performing, just auditing this event will build your knowledge and confidence and pump you up with a heavy helping of enjoyment and renewed positivity. We may have to limit the size of this event so respond early through our website.

This summer COSMO will present a hands-on intensive workshop on the business/marketing side of the singer/songwriter as the proprietor of a commercial small business selling a musical product. This will be a practical analysis of what one does with what one has produced and wants to sell. It all comes down to marketing and sales, and you need to know how to utilize the many Internet and software tools that exist. You need to develop a business plan for how to effectively sell your music in order to maintain an active creative career independent of a day-job. You need to know the steps, time-line, priorities and mechanics of indie commerce that starts from your desk top and accesses a world-wide marketplace. FYI you represent the largest group of small businesses in the country – really!

In ending my thoughts here in this latest Musical Whittling, let me share with you some of my observations of the past several months. This field of endeavor we call the music industry is populated with truly creative artists. I have seen the personal side of these independent artists coming together to learn and to play and I have seen that there is a lot of compassion and good will that we all extend to each other. It’s a tight community and I love it when one of us breaks out to become a main-stage headliner.

I guess the point to be made is that pursuing a career rather than just a gig is worthy of making the effort to go to these events and worthy of going to the expense of gasoline and enrollment fees to grow and learn from the experience. If the musical mission you are on has value to you, you will make the commitment to excel and succeed.

(The American Secrets are the new faces in www.FreeCredtScore.com commercials)

This Midwestern crew originally joined forces to enter a local Detroit rock competition, just to see if they could win. However, when bass player Bryon Rossi, drummer Daniel Rossi, keyboard player Stephen Saputo, guitarists Daniel Zott and Michael Mulliniks actually took home the top prize, they realized just how much they enjoyed making music together. Although the group itself is in its infancy, the members of The American Secrets have been involved in the local Detroit music scene for years and have found individual success, performing at events including SXSW and Purple Door Festival.

Thursday May 17, 2012
11:30am sharp 

AIMP Panel

Place: View Map
Lawry’s
100 North La Cienega Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Entrees:
Lawry’s Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef (Cutoff: May 15, 2012)
Grilled Salmon with a Citrus-Herb Sauce (Cutoff: May 15, 2012)
Red Peppers Stuffed w/Corn & Mozzarella, w/Couscous & Fruit (Cutoff: May 15, 2012)

Cost:
AIMP Members – $40.00 per person
AIMP Non-Members – $53.00 per person

Parking: Self-parking is available on site at no additional charge.

Reservations accepted online at www.aimp.org or by telephone at 818-771-7301 until Wednesday, May 16th at noon.  Advance registration deadline with entree choice ends on the Tuesday night before the event at midnight.  We will do our best to accommodate late reservations made the week of the event, but please be advised that entrée selection and space may be limited. Online reservations can be paid online by credit card; however, credit cards are not accepted at the door. Payment at the door is by cash or check only. Those who walk up without a reservation will be served whatever is available, space allowing.If an event is sold out, walk-ups will not be accommodated.

Full-time students with a current student I.D. – $43.00 per person*
*Qualifying students must reserve by phone and pay in advance by check or at the door. There are no online reservation or payment services for this discounted rate.
NOTE TO BERKLEE ALUMNI: If you are inquiring in response to a special offer via the Berklee Newsletter, please email LAinfo@aimp.org for registration instructions.

Attention attorneys: this activity has been approved for one hour of Minimum Continuing Legal Education Credit by the State Bar of California. Attorneys wishing to register for MCLE credit should bring their state bar number with them for the sign in sheet.
Attention CPA’s: This activity follows the continuing education guidelines specified in the California Board of Accountancy Regulations. CPA’s wishing to register for one CE credit should bring their CPA license number with them for the sign in sheet. [Pick up your certificate at the luncheon – AIMP cannot issue certificates after-the-fact.]

Additional Speaker Information

Brad Rains – Moderator, is currently the Senior Director of Commercial Licensing and Brand Partnerships at Atlantic Records, tasked with creatively pitching the roster of Atlantic artists to ad agencies and brands nationwide, along with securing brand and sponsorship opportunities. He spent much of his career as a publisher with indie giants Windswept and Bug Music, pitching songs for Film, TV, Advertising and other synchronization opportunities, along with signing and managing various songwriters and bands. He joined the Atlantic Records team in November of 2010 to concentrate his efforts on matching brands with artists. Brad recently secured deals with the likes of Apple, Budweiser, Diet Coke, Bing, Trident, Chevrolet, K-Mart, Nike, Kohl’s and Holiday Inn to name a few.

Andre LeMasurier is currently an Integrated Creative Director at Saatchi LA and has more than 12 years global brand experience, creating award-winning campaigns in traditional and digital channels on both sides of the Canadian border. Previously he was at AKQA San Francisco where he held the position of Creative Director working on Nike and Xbox and also directed several spots for Nike while working on the brand. Thanks to many talented collaborators his work has been recognized by the likes of One Show, ADCC, Marketing Awards, Webby Awards and Applied Arts to name a few. Andre has worked on many global brands including Toyota, MSN, Nokia, Disney, Lexus, Dyson, Cineplex, MobiTV, George Brown, Wrigleys, Mastercard, Mitsubishi, T-Mobile, Old Navy and Samsung.

Carianne Marshall joined Songs Music Publishing in June 2006 where she is a Partner and Head of Creative Licensing. She has extensive experience finding placements for songs in films, television shows, commercials, video games, and trailers. Previously, Carianne was Director of Film & Television music at Universal Music Publishing and was a Film / TV Executive at DreamWorks Music Publishing. Earlier in her career, Carianne held positions at artist management firm Vox Productions and, subsequently, at Elektra Records.

Chrissy Stuart has worked for South By Southwest, Downtown Music, and currently serves as the Creative Director for Beggars Music, the publishing entity of The Beggars Group (XL Recordings, Matador Records, 4AD, Rough Trade) in the US. Based in Los Angeles, she oversees sync opportunities for the Beggars Music roster, which includes Cat Power, Deerhunter, SBTRKT, Pete & The Pirates, Holy Fuck and Kurt Vile. Chrissy also works closely with other labels, artists, and publishers to coordinate creative collaborations with her writers.

Marisa Wasser began helping producers find music tracks to be placed in commercials. Soon, more agency brands became interested in her specialty: up-and-coming bands. She built and nurtured relationships between agencies and numerous labels and became a Music Supervisor at Deutsch LA, while maintaining her role as a Broadcast Producer. She has worked with bands directly to compose tracks for Saturn, Old Navy, Volkswagen and many other Deutsch clients.
Register for this event now by clicking here.

While our beloved friend Mandi was still lucid I had one last talk with her. She said “I don’t want to go. I have too much to do yet.” This would probably be how we’ll all feel facing our end. I offered her some perspective that I hoped would make it easier for her.

“Mandi, what’s happening is that you got spoiled. You’ve lived a life that most people in this world could only dream about. You got to live your life not only creating music that moved those who heard it, but to help many, many others do the same. You got to live your life surrounded by love — by friends who would go out of their way to help you because they knew you would do it for them or you had already helped them.

You gave them warm companionship and a sympathetic ear when they needed it. You ALWAYS made them laugh. You encouraged their musical dreams. You had a wonderful husband in Jerry who loved you more than anything and encouraged everything you did. So though it’s a sad time for you and all of us who love you, you can justly feel that you’ve made a valuable contribution in your very rich life. It’s truly something to celebrate. So don’t feel sad about the time you don’t have. Be joyful for the time you did have.”

She said, “You know, you’re right.” And I think that, despite her sadness, she got past it for a moment. I also think that in her last few days the procession of friends coming to tell her goodbye, recall their stories with her, play music for her and to express their love made it easier for her to let go. Thank you all for that!

And I add this now. Mandi, knowing you’ll hear this too.

Len Chandler and I personally thank you for the thousands of hours you contributed to the Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase. I won’t forget the many times we watched the sun come up putting the LASS monthly Musepaper to bed in time to race to the printer. Thousands of songwriters can thank you for creating the system for our 22 Songwriters Expos that insured that as many writers as possible got heard. And every year you organized the volunteers, “Mandi’s Expo Elves” to get it done. You were always a vital, creative and tireless part of our team and an unparalleled evangelist for LASS.

You inspired everyone with 3 pinball marathons and world records. (Mandi’s take on this tells you a lot about who she is: http://mandimartinmusic.com/blog/pinball-marathon-wrap-up/). I got to be part of your “crew” all 3 times.

Dear Friends Roz Larman, Kat Ellis, Mandi & Mary Valente

For 38 years I got to share your love and friendship. I’ve been privileged to have been part of so many aspects of your life and both JoAnn and I have cherished your friendship, love and laughter more than you’ll know.

******************************************************

 Thanks to John Braheny for this beautiful article. Those of us around the L.A. music scene will miss the incredible laughter and energy of Mandi Martin. Her life will be one of great consequence for a lot of songwriters still working – her legacy will be kept going by her son Matthew. All of us wish Mandi’s family our deepest sympathies.

If you’re on Facebook, visit Mandi’s Prayhouse – Mandi Martin link to read all the love on those pages.

Mandi’s Prayhouse is a testament to Mandi’s powers of positive persuasion – bringing people together… during her incredible  life and beyond.

Mandi's love for dolphins inspired one to appear

Mandi Martin

3/20/1945 – 4/30/2012

www.mandimartinmusic.com

Veteran music producer/singer/songwriter MANDI MARTIN
has made a career out of making —and breaking— records.
( But not just the kind you listen to… )

The former Columbia, RCA and Epic recording artist — who produced and sold her first record in the early ’60s when she was still in high school — just happens to be the reigning Guinness World Record holder at pinball endurance.

MARTIN was indoctrinated to the game in the early ’70s by some of its most avid players: Waylon Jennings, Tompall Glaser, and Tennessee DJ Captain Midnight, who would face off in the wee hours of the night between writing and recording sessions while she was a staff songwriter for ABC Music Publishing (MCA) in Nashville.

The trio taught her the nuances of flipper control, and she soon began showing them how to play all night on a single quarter.

Her pinball prowess followed her to Los Angeles in the mid-’70s, where she set a new Guinness pinball-playing world record in 1978 with a time of 140 hours and 32 minutes.

Within a few months that record had been broken, until MARTIN struck back in 1979, turning in a 505-hour performance that stood for 21 years, until — incredibly — MARTIN broke her record again in March 2000. She holds the current Guinness World record at 555 hours, 55, minutes, and 55 seconds of continuous pinball play.

Martin’s amazing pinball endurance mirrors the success and longevity of her career in the music industry…

She began her professional music career in 1961 when, as a senior at Montebello (CA) High School, she wrote, produced, sang, and sold the record “Picture of Love”/”Then You’ll Know I Care” to American Records.

While still a student, she graduated to singing background with industry giants Sam Cooke and Ricky Nelson, Jan & Dean, Chad & Jeremy, Barry Goldberg, Johnny Rivers,The Seeds, Brian Wilson and Jimmy Buffett among other greats.

Before the decade was over, she’d managed Tangerine Music Publishing for Ray Charles(who taught her how to engineer and honed her production skills); and, as an artist, had signed recording contracts with Candix, Columbia, RCA, and Epic.

In 1971, MARTIN landed on the country charts with her self-penned / self-produced “Nice Girl” on Prince Records. By this point in her career, the songstress’ tunes had been published by some of the biggest names in Nashviille and L.A.: Pat Boone‘s Cooga Mooga Music, Al Gallico, April-Blackwood, Almo/Irving, and Criterion.

While under contract as the first signed staff songwriter for ABC Music (MCA) in Nashville, MARTIN relocated to Los Angeles in 1973, and began producing country, folk and R&B artists, including veteran Len Chandler and newcomer Oleta Adams.

Beginning in 1974, MARTIN began her tenure serving on the boards of several music industry associations and non-profits. She served for 23 years as:

• Co-producer, Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase (LASS), an internationally renowned organization that showcased many top songwriters (including Dianne Warren, Alan O’Day, Stevie Nicks, and Lindsey Buckingham)
  • Co-producer, 23 annual Songwriter Expos, the flagship event of LASS
  • Associate editor, Songwriters Musepaper, the monthly trade publication of LASS
• President, Organization of Women in Music (1978-79)

• Board of Governors, The Recording Academy (Los Angeles Chapter), which annually bestows the prestigious GRAMMY® Awards (10 years)
• Board of Directors, LAWIM (Los Angeles Women in Music)

Mandi Martin, Jimi Yamagishi, Rob Case & Barry Keenan

In 1982, MARTIN married the love of her life, pioneering holographer Jerry Fox. Thirteen years and one day after their wedding, he suddenly collapsed and died on June 28, 1995. Since Fox’s passing, MARTIN has remained ever-active in the music community, whose members she credits with helping her cope during her time of mourning.

In 1997, MARTIN formed Mandi Martin Productions and re-focused her music career toward music production, songwriting, and (in her weakest moments!) artist management.

She has since produced records for:

• Country singer/songwriters Kate E. Oyler and Robin Bolden.
• Guitarist/writer/artist and former member of The Flying Buritto Bros. John Beland
• Contemporary Christian artist Deanna D’Amico
• Joseph Bowman Scruggs
• Long Island hard rock band Dead & Dreaming
• Pop/alternative/folk singer/songwriter Amy Kuney, whose EP was named Music Connection Magazine‘s highest rated indie CD of 2006
• Pop/rock/soul singer/songwriter Nick Daugherty, who was named one of Music Connection Magazine’s Top 100 Unsigned Artist for 2009
• Barry Keenan
• 3 Keepin’ Lane

UPDATE, September 2009

This summer saw the release of Nick Daugherty’s first album “Movin’ Higher“ to much critical acclaim.

Besides working on completing Nick’s project, Mandi is currently working on a second single for Barry Keenan and continuing production on the newly formed band, 3 Keepin’ Lane.

Sailing with friend Andy Cahan

Mandi is always looking for exciting new talent to work with.  If you’re looking for a producer, please check out the production page for more info.

Thanks to friends, there are many more photos to view online on Facebook at Mandi’s Prayhouse – Mandi Martin. Leave a few words for our friend, who’s probably sailing somewhere today off the coast of KatManDu.

COSMO Presents the 1st in a Series of Master Class Presentations

An Evening with Elisabeth Howard: VOCAL POWER WORSHOP
www.VocalPowerAcademy.com

 ATTENTION PLEASE!!!

This event is being rescheduled for
June or July 2012. We do apologize for any 

inconvenience this may have caused.

New Date will be announced Soon!

Help Cosmo Support You
by supporting Cosmo.
Consider a donation using the button below.

Visit our website for more About Us!
www.CosmoCoalition.org

The Guitar Merchant is located at
7503 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Par, CA
www.guitarmerchant.com 

Elisabeth Howard: Vocal Power Workshop

COSMO principals Judy and Steve have been strong supporters ofVocalPowerAcademystarting some thirty years ago when Grammy Award arranger, David Bloomberg (“I Will Survive”), recommended Liz for Judy’s then recording gigs at Capital Records. Steve and Judy continued to promote Liz during their term at L.A. Women in Music and now through COSMO as well as the planning of a Master Class PBS television series.

On a personal note: Liz has just won the Long Beach Preliminary for the Ms. Senior California Pageant and will now compete in the State Final this August in Westminster, Orange County.

****************

In her one woman show, ”Op’ra to Pop’ra,” ”A talent to be reckoned with.” “As professional as they come.”~ Music Connection Magazine

Review of the Cypress “Pops” Orchestra concert in California – “Elisabeth Howard wows the audience!”
Your professionalism, depth of knowledge and commitment to NATS are truly exemplary,”

~ Scott McCoy, NATS President review of NATS/MTNA Music Theater III in Seattle.

This is an evening event with Elisabeth, an international vocal coach whose
reputation continues to build strong referrals year after year! 

“To my friend, Elisabeth,
Thank you for your invaluable help. Love, STING”

Considered the best in vocal technique and vocal coaching in Los Angeles and the best coaching for all styles, with an emphasis on personal style, Top Vocal Coach, Elisabeth Howard and her Vocal Power Instructors are located in Woodland Hills, Topanga, Camarillo, and Pasadena. Private voice lessons in vocal technique and song styling are our specialty. The Elisabeth Howard Vocal Power Method establishes a strong foundation in vocal technique, giving you power and freedom to express yourself. The Vocal Power Method is used world – wide through Vocal Power Instructors and through the “SING!” book, 4cds and the “Born to Sing” DVD. Longevity is the result of a healthy singing technique. Vocal Power will give you longevity that will carry you through your entire career. We proudly embrace and expertly coach Pop, R&B, Jazz, Blues, Techno, Rock, Music Theater and Opera. Singer Showcases are presented regularly at the Catalina Jazz Club, in Hollywood.

“Thanks Liz for helping find my voice! What can I say? You’re simply THE BEST!” Priscilla Presley

“Watching Kelly blossom under Liz Howard’s voice training is a real joy.”Kris Kristofferson

Elisabeth Howard holds a B.S. and M.S. in voice from the Juilliard School and is on the voice faculty of Pepperdine University. She has also taught voice at Indiana University, University of Southern California and Hunter College in New York City. Elisabeth maintained a private vocal studio for twenty years in New City before moving to Los Angeles where she founded the Vocal Power Academy.

Elisabeth has trained certified Vocal Power Instructors in Los Angeles, Italy, Brazil, Germany, Texas and a Vocal Power Academy branch in Las Vegas.

 Sponsored by TK Promo/COSMO Coalition, www.COSMOCoalition.org

Rethink Music 2012

Artists and Industry Innovators Flock to Rethink Music 2012

http://www.rethink-music.com

Rethink Music is a solutions-focused event with creative workshops, expert panels, live performances, and competitions designed to cultivate innovation. Our goal is to foster ideas that drive the music industry forward.

Business leaders from such companies as YouTube, Spotify, Converse, the Echo Nest, Pitchfork, Vevo, Nokia, along with artists including Wu-Tang Clan’s GZA/The Genius, Karmin, Portugal. The Man and Thievery Corporation will come together to generate solutions to transform the music industry at the second Rethink Music conference.

Produced by Berklee College of Music and midem and running from 22-24 April 2012 in Boston, MA, Rethink Music will address trending topics like direct-to-fan artist issues and streaming services’ impact on the industry. The second edition of the conference brings an increased focus on live-learning workshops with acclaimed artists throughout the event. Creative marketer and best-selling author Seth Godin will present the keynote speech.

Leading up to the conference, Rethink Music’s Impact Weekend showcases around Boston will include Mayer Hawthorne, The Stepkids, The Lumineers, Kopecky Family Band, JD McPherson and Lucius on 20-21 April.

On Sunday 22 April, the Music Deconstruction Experience will offer a ‘musician’s clinic’ session led by musical group Portugal. The Man will unveil real-life making music experiences and provide an in-depth perspective of what it takes to make it to the top of a challenging industry. Rethink Music’s opening concert at the Berklee Performance Center will feature performances by Junior Boys, Karmin and Yoga Girls.

On Monday 23 April, world-renowned DJ and producer DJ Spooky will hold a session on the musical breakdown of the electronic music’s intricate genre, and how he is using technology to promote his career. Also on Monday, the resurgence of music videos will be discussed with the group Karmin, explaining how the convergence of video and music has become an integral part in fostering growth and establishing an artist’s career.

GZA/The Genius of Wu-Tang Clan will present a lecture on Tuesday 24 April about what it takes to sustain a career in a world of new technologies and short attention spans. The event will culminate with the release and discussion of a studio collaboration between Thievery Corporation and Berklee Electronic Production and Design students.

The final roster of artists and outstanding personalities and speakers taking part in Rethink Music 2012 now include:

• Mike Bebel, Global Head of Music, Nokia
• Zahavah Levine, Director of Content, Android
• Cathy Merenda, Vice President of Music Publishing, Twentieth Century Fox
• Amanda Palmer, artist
• Len Schlesinger, President, Babson College
• Bill Werde, Editorial Director, Billboard

A key part of Rethink Music’s goal of fostering innovation and new ideas for the music industry, the Genesis Project startup competition will recognize new concepts, technologies and businesses which can move the music industry forward.

The Genesis Project’s finalists are now announced:

• “Promoter” by Sam Taylor – A bridge between artists and their hardest working fans.
• “That Was My Jam” by Kristin Hill – A new web service helping music enthusiasts create a personalized music timeline.
• “Have You Heard?” by Joey Seiler – Leverages the listening data available on music-streaming platforms to benefit both fans and artists.

After an in-depth review by Rethink Music’s academic partner and recognized specialist in researching entrepreneurship in the music industry, Babson College, the winner will be announced during Rethink Music’s closing ceremony and will receive $10,000 in legal services from the Genesis Project’s sponsor and renowned law firm Duane Morris.

The Rethink Music 2012 updated program-at-a-glance is available online and registration is open, with special rates for students and musicians.

Thanks to Music Dish Network for this story.

Major Music Industry Groups Reach Historic Agreement on Royalty Rates and Standards

Agreement Enables New Cutting-Edge Business Models

WASHINGTON – Organizations representing the music publishers and songwriters, major record labels, digital music services and cellular phone companies today announced an agreement setting mechanical royalty rates and standards that supports a slate of new cutting-edge business models to help consumers access and enjoy music.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), National Music Publishers Association (NMPA) and Digital Media Association (DiMA) are filing an industry-wide agreement that fully resolves the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) Rate Proceeding under Section 115 of the Copyright Act.
The settlement provides for the development of new digital music services and business models offering music to consumers by creating new rates and terms under Section 115 for five new categories, which include: •    Mixed service bundles (for example, a locker service, limited interactive service, downloads or ringtones combined with a non-music product such as a mobile phone, consumer electronics device or Internet service) •    Paid locker services (subscription-based locker providing on-demand streaming and downloads) •    Purchased content lockers (a free locker functionally provided to a purchaser of a permanent digital download, ringtone or CD where the music provider and locker have an agreement) •    “Limited offerings” (subscription-based service offering limited genres of music or specialized playlists) •    Music bundles (bundling music products such as CDs, ringtones and permanent digital downloads)
Lee Knife, Executive Director – DiMA “From the advent of internet radio services, to online music stores, on-demand streaming and more recently, cloud-based music services, digital media providers thrive on creating new ways for fans to enjoy more music whenever and wherever they want,” said Lee Knife, Executive Director of the Digital Media Association. “Today’s agreement paves the way for our members to continue developing exciting new business models that satisfy consumers, create greater revenue opportunities for music creators and effectively fight piracy, the music industry’s greatest threat.”
David Israelite, President and CEO – NMPA “Today’s agreement is not only an important show of industry cooperation, but a testament to the value of the creative content being provided to consumers,” said NMPA President and CEO David Israelite.  “This agreement represents the culmination of months of discussions among the music industry, digital service providers and technology companies, and will provide more consumer choice with respect to when and how to access music while ensuring songwriters and music publishers continue to thrive in the digital age.”
Cary Sherman, Chairman and CEO – RIAA “This is a historic agreement that reflects our mission to make it easier for digital music services to launch cutting-edge business models and streamline the licensing process,” said Cary Sherman, Chairman and CEO, RIAA.  “This is a major win for consumers, the music community, and entrepreneurs and investors in new music services.  Getting to an agreement was a challenge, and I want to thank Steve Marks, our lead negotiator, for his persistence and creativity in getting a deal done.”
About DiMA The Digital Media Association (“DiMA”) is the trade association representing the legal and policy interests of the nation’s leading online distributors of digital music, movies and books.  DiMA members are constantly developing new and innovative ways to provide consumers with increased access to legitimate online content, and DiMA helps its members accomplish this objective by representing the industry in a wide variety of legal, political and regulatory matters.
About the NMPA Celebrating its 95th year, the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) is the trade association representing American music publishers and their songwriting partners. The NMPA’s mandate is to protect and advance the interests of music publishers and songwriters in matters relating to the domestic and global protection of music copyrights.
About the RIAA  The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is the trade organization that supports and promotes the creative and financial vitality of the major music companies. Its members are the music labels that comprise the most vibrant record industry in the world. RIAA® members create, manufacture and/or distribute approximately 85% of all legitimate recorded music produced and sold in the United States.

COSMO thanks Music Dish Network for their precise and concise news reports.

More About DiMA http://www.digmedia.org/about-dima

DiMA IS the ambassador for the digital media industry:  webcasters, online media, digital services, and technology innovators.  DiMA is the leading advocate for a stable legal environment in which to build ideas into industries, and inventions into profits.

DiMA ADVOCATES for business and regulatory environments that support our members’ growth and success.  DiMA supports government policies that promote fair competition, fair royalties, innovation and consumer welfare.  DiMA opposes policies that rely on traditional regulatory concepts or business models instead of embracing modern technology and commerce.

DiMA DEFENDS members against legal and legislative initiatives that would inhibit technological and business model innovation or would otherwise impose undue costs and legal obligations on our members.  Our issues include copyright & royalties, consumer protection, competition & network neutrality, and digital taxation.

DiMA REPRESENTS it’s members in Congress, promotes member company executives as hearing witnesses, and lobbies actively in support of favorable legislation or against unfavorable legislation.  DiMA coordinates with industry organizations to make very broad-based appeals, including technology-focused associations, media associations and creative/copyright industries.  DiMA files regulatory comments and briefs, and appears in government agency proceedings when courts are considering important legal principles.

COSMO Coaliton Presents at GUITAR MERCHANT

7503 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, CA

 JOE SOLO, PRODUCER / SPEAKER

“The Mindset Behind Producing & Marketing Hit Music”

Sun. April 15, 2012 at 6pm sharp

This will be an evening where Joe takes over for 3 hours
to hear your music, talk to you about production
as well as offer ideas for improving your chances
in getting music out there and heard!

For more on Joe visit www.JoeSolo.com

$10 donation / Pre-register preferred **
Song Critiques must pre-register online
by Friday April 13 – we will select a few
on the night of the event as time allows
(see below bio for details)

Joe Solo

Producer/Songwriter & Founder of the Music Success Workshop, Joe Solo (Macy Gray, Fergie) will discuss the role that production and presentation play in the perception of a song.  He will emphasize the human aspects of music production, illustrated with before & after examples.

Joe will also tell entertaining inside-the-industry stories, field questions about music marketing, how to have a music biz mentality, and just about any other music topic you’d like to pick his brain on. Audience members are encouraged to bring their material or perform live for an on-the-spot critique.

Join COSMO Coalition, (Coalition of Songwriter & Music Organizations), for an evening with Joe, speaking on producing music that rises above the rest.

$10 donation requested – no one turned away for lack of funds 

You must RSVP if attending and want to have your song critiqued by Joe.  This is a great way for you to learn and share. Songs may be presented on cd or live performance. We need to know how many plan to get a song critiqued in advance – and a few on the night of the event.

 To pre-register, please email us info@cosmocoalition.org – Your $10 Payment online via www.paypal.com – Visa/MC/etc. accepted.

Steve Scott from COSMO will be your host and introduce Joe Solo.

Joe Solo

Record Producer, Songwriter, Composer

• Credits Include: Fergie, Macy Gray, Atlantic, MTV, Epic, HBO, Paramount, NBC, Universal, Sony, Apple, Famous Music Publishing, CBS, Killer Tracks, Fox Sports Music, BMG, Hasbro Games

• Seasoned Film / TV Composer & Songwriter; Songs heard on One Tree Hill, The OC, Major League Baseball, Dancing with the Stars, and many others

• Past speaking engagements include The NAMM Show, ASCAP’s “I Create” Expo, The Songwriter’s Guild of America, Expression College of Digital Arts, Billboard’s Film & TV Music Conference, The Producer’s Conference, UCSB, The National Assoc. of Record Industry Professionals, and KTLA News.

• Endorsements include Gibson, Apogee, Spectrasonics, Yamaha, Propellerheads, RME, Seymour Duncan, Overloud, MOTU, and Antares.

• Currently Joe is helping artists and music industry pros to become successful through his Music Success Workshop, instructional videos, hands-on career coaching, live seminars, and of course… songwriting & producing records.

Joe Solo’s Music Success Workshop

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To speak directly with someone regarding the Workshop and signing up, email info@coscmocoalition.org or call Toni Koch, 602-300-9626. Hope to see you there!

Thanks to Phil and the staff at  Guitar Merchant.
www.GuitarMerchant.com