Today we mourn the passing of Nelson R. Mandela

Attribution: South Africa The Good News / www.sagoodnews.co.za

     It's with great sadness that I announce that a pioneer, and a humanitarian, Nelson Mandela, has this day passed away.  He was the first black president of South Africa and a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary.  In 1962 he was arrested, convicted of sabotage and conspiracy to overthrow the government, and sentenced to life imprisonment.  He served 27 years in prison.
     He was born July 18, 1918 as Nelson Rolilahla Mandela and passed away December 5, 2013.  He will be sincerely missed.  Our hearts and our prays go out to his family.  This is such a sad day.
     

Product Recommendation: Tascam Dr-O5 Portable Digital Recorder

     I recommend this product for recording a live event, or a conversation you don't want to forget, or just to record your project. Would make a great gift for a singer or performing artist.




TASCAM DR-05 Portable Digital Recorder

THE LEAF CIGAR LOUNGE

Written by Philessa Jenkins aka Lady PJ

11/04/2013 11:25 am

All Rights Reserved

     Wake Up, Mobile!  It’s going down every Sunday night at “The Leaf Cigar Lounge” on 119 Dauphin Street (Downtown Mobile, Alabama); the new hot spot for artist that want to rock the mic.  The crowd starts coming in around 11 pm and the show starts around 12.  Shout out to my boy DJ King James, Red Ruga, Da Black Chinese, and King Size for making it all happen.  I love to support people that are doing positive things in the community and they have my full support.

     The artist that performed last night turned it up!  Let me just tell you I saw some amazing talent and the audience was participating; I love that.  Kudos!  Your girl did a little a cappella.  I’m working on a new song so I wanted to try it out and what better place than an “open mic?” It’s a good tool to use if you want to polish one of your projects and I use it to the fullest when I can.  

     Just don’t come half stepping because this is a competition and there's money involved.  Best believe that the artists you're going against are ready for war.  Plus, I would really hate for you to look bad in front of so many people; so come prepared for a battle and may the best artist win.  

     The judges are looking at your stage presence, audience participation, how you work the crowd, if you know your song (seriously), and above all did you turn it up!  Now that you know what the judges are looking for you I know you can take it from there.  Hey you heard it from your girl, Lady PJ; the information queen.

     Also T-Bird was there (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfhsXlNf4XI); “Who that is, my baby daddy, who that is, my baby daddy, who that is, my baby daddy, boy that’s just my baby daddy.”  He was all the way live (turned up) and I enjoyed every minute of his performance.  You can listen to the song and watch the video on YouTube at the link above.

     Much love to you all and remember that information is power so be informed, as always I’m Lady PJ; welcome to my world so pleased to be a part of yours. 

The Leaf Cigar Bar on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Leaf-Cigar-Lounge/434986579883365.  Do check them out and show some Lady PJ love.

                                                                                                                                                                                  

Writing Lyrics

Writing by Philessa Jenkins

October 16, 2013

Title:  “Writing Lyrics”

     I write my own lyrics; usually I just sit down and write whatever comes.  I come up with an idea, a concept, or just something that’s bothering me, and then I try to put that into words. 

Let’s say I want to do a song on the rain.  I can think of some rhyming words that go with rain like: pain, strain, train, or maintain.  Then I think about what can the rain do?  The rain can cool, it replenishes the earth, it can pour down, and it sooths the soul.  It can also destroy, bring about dark clouds, and without it things can die.  I then take all of this information and I try to put them into words.

This rain is like a train ride

That’s pushing me too hard

My life is put on overdrive

But I can’t fall apart

I hear the roaring thunder

I see_ the storm keeps on coming

Can’t get fast enough to cover

And I’m wondering when it’s over

     It sounds like a country song, right?  I usually try to work on the chorus line first then I build the song around it.  As you see in the lyrics above it didn’t happen that way this time.   It can take anywhere from fifteen minutes, to hours, to days for me to finish the lyrics.  It really depends on the song.  Okay, now I have the job of writing the chorus line.  Let’s try this (in your country accent):

I’m in pitch black mode

Living on the honor code

Thinking about the ways of life

Don’t fit me right, can’t find the light

     Did you see how I did that? I just started writing some words but I focused on the story because the story is the most important thing in this project.  If you’ve read or sung the chorus you’ll see that it needs a little more work.   

It’s hard to see the rainbow

I’m wondering where the wind blows

My tears fall down like raindrops

Feeds the pain and it never stops

Brings on decay, won’t go away

Now I’m standing in the puddles

     Okay, that’s it for now.  I’m going to work on the rest of the lyrics and when I’ve gotten the song down I’ll sing it for you. 

     Remember.  This is a way to work on your lyrics but you really have to find a format that works for you.  This method works for me.  Much love to you all, I’m Lady PJ, and information is power; be informed.

All Rights Reserved/Property of Philessa Jenkins

Copyright 2013

You must obtain written permission to copy or rewrite.

 #Writinglyrics, #writing lyricsbyLadyPJ

Verses and Flow; a new show for Poets

     Yesterday, I watched the end of this show called Verses and Flow and it provides a stage for poets to shine; Spoken Word Artist.  Let me just say that I love this idea.  It’s about time, right?  Here’s the link to the part of the show I watched, check it out www.youtube.com/watch?v=SI7srtcY3a4; please show your love and support, especially if you're feeling it.  

It’s a very creative and artistic show.  I so love it.  Check them out on FACEBOOK and don't forget to hit the LIKE button: https://www.facebook.com/versesandflow.  You can watch the show on TVONE.TV (Where Black Life Unfolds); tvone.tv/shows/verses-and-flow.htm.

     This is your girl, Lady PJ, and information is power so be informed. Much love to you all.  Philessa Jenkins aka Lady PJOctober 10, 2013

Congratulations To Tina Turner on her second marriage.

     Congratulations to Tina Turner and Erwin Bach; they tied-the-knot on the 21st of this month in Zurich, Switzerland.  It was a Buddhist wedding of course and the ceremony was held at their home on the banks of Lake Zurich.  Guest included Oprah Winfrey and Gayle.  LOL!  (I know it was other people) The couple has been together for 27 years now and this is Mrs. Tina Turner Bach second marriage.  They met in Germany while he was a music producer at EMI, which was her label at the time.  They went on their honeymoon in Italy.

     You go, girl!  She's 73 and still looking fabulous.  Demi Moore should take some notes; because he's seventeen years her junior and now she got a ring on it. I'm just saying. She looks immensely happy and that's what matters the most. Also she's been living in Switzerland for like 18 years so she renounced her U.S. citizenship for Switzerland.

     Check this site out to see the picture of the dress.  I know you want to see it.  I did. So here it is: http://necolebitchie.com/2013/07/26/tina-turner-gets-glammed-in-green-for-second-wedding/.

     Much love to you all and as always I'm Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Be You by Lady PJ

I hear words from your mouth
Do you know how you sound?
Empty... all poured out

I'm not your victim
You can't abuse me as you please
I got my freedom
Boy pay attention
I'm a beast

I'm hot like lead when it's fired
Sharper than the sharpest knife
I can walk on water
Because I got Jesus in my life

I'm not your girl
I'm not your boo
I'm not Jenny from the block
That you do

But I'm on fire
I know you see
Because I'm completely
100 percent me

7/27/2013
Lady PJ

     I was in a very fun place and decided to write this poem.  I hope you enjoy it.  Much love, Lady PJ.

In The News: Kanye West

“There is a reason for everything!”

Soren Kierkegaard

In The News: Kanye West

Born:  Kanye Omari West

Date: June 8, 1977 (age 36) Atlanta, Ga.

He’s an American hip hop musician, songwriter, record producer, film director, and fashion designer.

     Kanye West, the new father of North West, just can't get a break with the paparazzi.  It’s been reported through the news media that he could face felony charges after an altercation at LAX airport on July 19, 2013 with Independent filmmaker and photographer Daniel Ramos.  Sources are reporting that Ramos is still in the hospital after being put in a headlock by Kanye. 

     I saw the video and clearly Kanye was on edge about something.  He did however inform the photographer not to talk to him ever or to anyone that is with him.  He gave the man a speech about not talking to him ever.  I guess he wasn't playing! 

     This guy kept going on with his questions and in turn a very angry Kanye West turns towards the guy and attempts to grab his camera.  Well, Ramos was not about to let his camera go and in the tussle he fell down but secured his camera.  Way to go Ramos!  I must note that Kanye had his phone in the other hand!  I’m kind of wondering how he managed to hurt the camera man.  Ummmm.  

     After the altercation Kanye left in a waiting car while Ramos reported the event to the police.  The paramedics were called and they rushed to the scene.  It has been reported by sources that Daniel Ramos wants to press charges against Kanye.  Could this be Kanye’s next lawsuit and what happened to the anger management classes?  Am I the only one that’s curious about that?  Just a thought!

     I have to say and I'm really starting to believe this saying, “There’s no such thing as bad publicity.” I have to wonder as a new father is Kanye going to keep going down this destructive path or will he decide to make a change even if it’s for the sake of his child. 

     This is your girl, Lady PJ, as always much love to you and remember information is power so be informed.

R.I.P. Lil Snupe

     Many people have dreams and that’s a wonderful thing.  What if you were getting ready to live your dream at 18 years old but you were stopped by a bullet or two to the chest?  For one second just take the time to think about what you were doing at 18.  Think of all those first things you would have missed.  

     This is the reality that our young rappers face every day.  But most importantly this is what happened to Louisiana resident Lil Snupe (bourn Addarren Ross) on Thursday June 20, 2013 an 18 year old rapper/lyricist signed to Meek Mill’s Dream Chasers record.  Multiple sources are reporting that he was found dead at the scene after attempts to revive him failed.  A life lost before it even had the chance to blossom or to reach his full potential.  We will never know what he might have accomplished in his musical career.

                                                              Tony Holden

     Forty-eight (48) hours after the murder of Lil Snupe warrants were issued for the arrest of 36 year old Winnfied resident Tony Holden.  Holden is a convicted violent felon who is considered armed and dangerous.  The police think that he killed the young rapper over a video game. 

     Are you serious?  That is just so unbelievable to me.  The value of life keeps going down and there’s no end to the stupidity behind the reasons for these senseless murders.
     Sources are saying that Tony Holden is in police custody and has been charged with 1st degree murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

     I would love to know what you think about this situation.  This is your girl Lady PJ; information is power so be informed.  I will try to keep you informed as more information is put out.

Sources:

• http://slumz.boxden.com/f87/36-yeard-old-lil-snupe-killer-tony-holden-found-arrested-charged-1st-degree-murder-1942727/
• http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1709448/lil-snupe-shooting-death-suspect.jhtml

Happy Father's Day

Happy Fathers Day to all fathers from the team of Indie I Am.  Much love to you all and may you enjoy your special day.

Are Celebrities the new Kings and Queens of America?

How do you feel about the fact that we (Americans) hold celebrities to a higher standard than ourselves?  I say, “Who are we to judge them?”  I mean we all make mistakes; some times daily but we look down on artist like Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, and Kanye West.  We don’t see their accomplishments any more we only see their flaws.  I think that in order to live life to the fullest you have to make some mistakes but hopefully not as bad as Chris Brown’s mistake, or as tactless as Kanye West mistake with the whole awards thing, or as young and dumb as the mistake that Justin Bieber made.  Instead I think we should look at them as life lessons that we all should happily avoid.

     It’s a general rule of thumb to not put your hands on someone else as in to not hit them; the laying of hands and I’m not talking about praying.  Think for a minute, how many of us have broken this rule?  Some times in the heat of the moment, without thought, our judgment is hindered.  We lose ourselves in that very moment to anger (uncontrollable may I say) but are we to be judged by that for the rest of our lives?  Can we not take our punishment and obtain forgiveness?  Rihanna seems to have forgiven Chris Brown, so why can’t we?  One time I say I can give you a pass but twice no way.  Can we not give him a pass this one time; are our hearts that cold that we have not forgiveness within us?  He didn’t hurt me, and he didn’t put his hands on me.  He hit Rihanna and she forgives him so why can’t we do the same?

     Justin Bieber is young and immature but what adult hasn’t been at this point in their life?  He’s doing stupid things that people his age do.  Are they right? Hell no!  I remember driving over a hundred miles an hour in Germany on the Auto Bohn just to see how fast my car would go; I was young and stupid.  It maxed out at 160.  I was so happy until I saw this porch pass me.  Yeah, that killed that excitement.  Let me add that at the time it was legal.  Young adults, Justin age, like to test the waters so to speak just to see what they can get away with.  He’s no different.  I say judge not least ye be judged.  I know you can recall some of the stupid stuff you did when you were his age.  He hasn’t hurt anybody (except for his own professional image), and he definitely hasn’t killed anyone; so why can’t we forgive him?

     I would really like to know the real Kanye West because we really don’t get to see the good stuff.  Most of the time we see him as the Kim Kardashian arm candy slash baby daddy or the bad boy; when he’s done something exceptionally wrong.  He’s an artist that has made some mistakes but we (the onlookers) make artist role models.  I don’t understand that concept.  He’s an artist that creates illusions for us to process for publicity purpose may I add and in fact they work because “look at him he thinks he’s God.” It’s what people say.  No he doesn’t, he just knows what will get people talking and guess what… it works.

     Our society labels people as “stars” and put them on pedestals making them first class citizens.  The new Kings and Queens of the world then we bow down to them gracefully.  So what they make millions; is that a reason to hold them to such a high regard or to put unattainable expectations on these flawed beings?  I think of mankind as an imperfect being and if you’re a human being then you are a flawed being.  There’s not one person that doesn’t make mistakes.  Do you think that Justin Bieber put’s his pants on by jumping into them or one leg at a time, just like the rest of us?  Do you think that Kanye West doesn’t need air to breath just like you or me?  I know sounds stupid right?  I say celebrate their accomplishments, congratulate them even, but stop making them role models for our children.

     I would love to know what you think about my subject today.  As always I’m Lady PJ and information is power, so be informed.

Is your music copyrighted....

     Is your music copyrighted or do you have the “poor man’s copyright;” which doesn’t stand up legally in court that is if you expect to get paid for copyright infringement?  By law your music is copyrighted as soon as it is fixated on a hard copy.  But the only true way to establish a copyright is through the U.S. Copyright office; legal way that is.  It will establish the date and time your work was first written or song plus of course by whom.  This information is important if you have to go to court to establish ownership of your work.
     You go through the U.S. Copyright office and guess what?  They are online at www.copyright.gov or you can call them to acquire the information you need at (202) 707-3002 or 1-877-476-0778 (toll free).  I always file my copyrights online because it’s easier and I can copyright a whole album for the same price I would pay to copyright one song; currently it cost only $35 on-line.  First you have to establish an account through the eCo login by hitting the heading registration on the copyright webpage at www.copyright.gov then you hit the little blue circle (there’s an arrow pointing right to it).  Once you get into the system you just fill in the blanks.  It’s so easy.
     One more thing, make sure that the work being copyrighted is by the same authors.  You can’t have one work by Little big foot and Plain Jane and have another work by Little big foot and Ugly Joe.  Sorry, but they have to be by the same authors.     Now if you decide to mail your work into the copyright office then it will cost you $65.  You can still go to the website and download the forms or you can call and request copies, there’s also a link on this page http://www.copyright.gov/eco/ where you can request the forms.  They make everything so convenient.  Below is the mailing address to the copyright office:
U.S. Copyright Office101 Independence Avenue SEWashington, DC 20559     Okay, that’s your basic information on copyrighting your work.  If you don’t understand how to do this then maybe you should call a Lawyer; just to be safe.  Okay, much love to you all.  This is your girl Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Possible Advertisement site: Promo FM

     I found this site online and if they can deliver all that they advertise you may want to go and check them out.  They are currently the promo for Nick Cage new movie.  Interesting!  The Company name is PromoFm and you can hit the link that follows in order to go and check them out:  http://www.promofmmusic.com/.
     "PromoFM claims to be the next step for any musician, label, individual, or small business who wants to promote themselves using radio, television or web advertising. Their online community is claimed to be the first online community that give you the tools to promote your music, events, physical and digital products both online and through traditional media (radio, TV). All accounts come equipped with a fully functional online storefront to sell anything from CD’s to Mp3’s to E- books, Show tickets and more!
Purchasing airtime is suppose to be easy through PromoFM Store where you can select from several available packages. They're the one stop promotion and business platform for your band or brand."
     I would love to know what your recommendation would be for this company.  Just hit me back in the comments and we will go from there.     

Two business sites that I recommend for entrepreneur's:

     You know you can really find so many things when you know where to look.  For instance I found these two sites that I think you, the entrepreneur, might be interested in.  One of the sites is “Bigcommerce” and the other is “Focalprice”(5th Focalprice.com Anniversary Celebration, Free Shipping).

      On the Bigcommerce site you can set-up your own store.  I’m so serious.  So you say you don’t have a product, then you go on over to Focalprice (under the wholesale link) but I think you have to have an EIN to get the wholesale price.  You do know how to get your business EIN from the IRS; form SS-4.  Here’s a link to help you out:  http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/How-to-Apply-for-an-EIN.  In order to make your business legal you must obtain a business license and yes there is a fee.   You’ll have to call The Business License division in your area to find out what that fee is and if there are any other requirements.

    The one thing I really like about Bigcommerce is… if you have a question that you just need to ask they have a person waiting to answer any question you might have.  How cool is that?  I checked the prices and was completely surprised by the price.  Their plans start as low as $24.95 a month.  Wow!  It’s got me thinking about a store.  I also checked to see if you could set your store up to download; like music or poetry.  Guess what?  You can so do that.  Imagine your own store with your music on it and other products.  Sounds really good, right?  Bigcommerce can also provide you with a merchant account so you can accept credit cards and the payments go directly into your account. 

     Focalprice carries a long list of products; from toys, to electronics, and even men's wigs.  Cause you guys need some help sometimes too.  I'm just saying, so check it out.
     I have to say that I’ve made it really easy for so just hit the links and they will direct you to the sites.  This is for that Entrepreneur that keeps saying they don’t have the opportunity; well here’s the opportunity.  The question is, are you bold enough to follow your dream?

     As always I’m Lady PJ and information is power, so be informed.

How to create a Press Kit/Media Kit

How to create a Press Kit/Media Kit for your band or artist?
Things you will need to complete your press kit:
·         A Cover page
·         Your band or artist bio
·         Artist fact sheets
·         A CD of your songs
·         Artist/Band Photos
·         All press clippings that mention you as an artist/band
 1.       First create a cover page:  The cover page should be a letter addressed to the person you are giving the press kit to.  Keep in mind that this is the first thing that person will see, so make it stand out.   The cover page should always have your contact information, website, and basic details about your music and band/artist.  In fact put your band contact information on every page of your press kit.
2.       Band Bio:  Your bio should be a one-page sheet that contains a brief history about your band/artist and its accomplishments.  Never over sell your band.  Include anything unique that sets your band or act apart from others.
3.       Any press clippings, reviews, or positive mentions:  If you have press coverage (favorable press coverage), include a page of quotes and reviews of your band, live shows, or albums.  Make sure press clippings are presented in a visually appealing format.
4.       A three song CD:  I would suggest that you send your three best songs because more than likely the person you’re sending your kit too doesn’t have a lot of time to go through all of your songs if you include a full album.  Also, make sure all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit and the case.
5.       An 8x10 photo:  Most press wants to be able to download digital versions of your photos from your website.  Creativity is important even in your promo photo.  The photo should be black and white so it can be easily duplicated in newspapers.  Venues can use this to create ads for upcoming shows featuring your band, so it is important that the picture represents the band/artist.
6.       A fact sheet about your band:  A fact sheet is a one page references sheet with basic facts about your band/artist.  This can Include:
Ø  Band name
Ø  Style and genre of music
Ø  Band members names
Ø  Where and date you were formed
Ø  Hometown
Ø  Notable coverage or facts about your band
Ø  A list of established bands or artist you sound like
Ø  Tagline (if you have one)
7.       Make this information available on your website:  You should have a section or page on your website that includes all the above information so the press can download the information at their convenience.  FYI, you can use an online blog to house this information and not spend a dime.
P.S.  If you find that you don’t have all the information, don’t make it up.   You will only be starting your career out on a bad foot.   Well, that’s it.  If you’re not that gifted at putting things together creatively then I suggest you hire someone to do it for you.  As always I’m Lady PJ and information is power, so be informed.

Build A Presence As An Artist In The Music World

     So you want to build a presence in the music world and your question is how do you go about establishing that presence?  My answer is simple; hard work.   You have to work every day and try to come up with new and exciting ways to put yourself out there for fans because no fans, no career.
     First, you have to see yourself differently, you are an artist but you’re also a commodity (you are a product) and an individual business.  In that regard you have to find ways to market you the artist like you would market any other commodity or business.  I have to add that taking some business classes would be helpful but nothing is better than life experience.  If you’re like me and you’re one of those people who learn by doing then you just have to get to work.
     Something simple you can do to get going is start a webpage by using sites like Reverbnation.com, Phlobuzz.com, Youtube.com, and Myspace.com or you can build your own website.  You would be amazed to find out how many web hosting sites have user friendly software (GUI) to set your webpage up plus you can be up and running in less than a day.  The good thing is… the prices of some of these sites will amaze you; I pay $4.44 monthly for my webpage.  Surprising I know; that’s what I thought.
     Another thing you can do is pass out business cards.  Business cards are so convenient to use.  You just go up to someone and introduce yourself then give them your card; don’t forget to ask them to check out your site and to listen to your music.  Then you thank them for their time and go on your way to the next person.  See how absolutely simple that is?  The purpose of your business card is to usher them to your webpage or website; then the website should do the rest.
***Note:  Don’t overload your business card with unnecessary information; just your artist name, genre of music, your skills (singer, songwriter, poet, composer, and producer), webpage address, website address, and contact information (email and phone number).  That’s all you need.
     The final thing I’m going to talk about is getting accepted in a few internet groups.  These groups are beneficial in that you will find like-minded people whom you can network with, advertise to, maybe go on gigs together, and establish some close relationships with.  Make sure to post your website address on these sites whenever you get online.
     I hit you with quite a bit to do but if you start out just doing a little at a time it will become second nature and you won’t even see it as work.  I’m Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

A3C Hip Hop Festival in Atlanta, Ga

One of the largest hip-hop festivals in the US; A3C showcases a cross-section of hip-hop music with live performances from some of hip-hop’s most promising and renowned artists & DJs from across the world. In 2012 A3C included performances from 300+ artist and DJ representing 30+ states and 7 different countries. There were 30+ sponsored showcases in over a dozen different venues in the metro Atlanta area. Stage capacities ranged from 3,000+ outdoor music park to an intimate lounge.

A3C has partnered with Sonicbids and Reverbnation to find talented up-and-coming artists from around the world. Submit your EPK through Sonicbids or Reverbnation. If you do not have an account with either, it is simple and easy to create a new account.

All artists who submit via Reverb or Sonicbids, and are NOT selected, will receive a discount code for an all access A3C pass.

2012 Highlight Performances 

Big Boi, Raekwon, GZA, Tech N9ne, Yelawolf, Just Blaze, Twista, The Liknuts (The Beatnuts & Tha Alkaholiks), Ab-Soul, Devin the Dude, Trinidad James, DJ Red Alert, Hopsin, Dungeon Family, Nipsey Hussle, Killer Mike, 9th Wonder, Freeway, Chris Webby, Prodigy (Mobb Deep), Da Beatminerz, Cyhi The Prynce, Starlito, Rapsody, Mr. MFN Exquire, Nappy Roots, CunningLynguists, Oddisee, Slum Village, Phil Ade, King Chip, DJ Shiftee, Los, Emilio Rojas, Fat Trel, Don Trip, Rich Kidz, Smoke DZA, OCD: Moosh & Twist, Jarren Benton, GLC, Iamsu, Alley Boy, Los Rakas, Grande Marshall, Killy Kyleon, Dizzy Wright, Kirko Bangz, On No, Trae The Truth, Skyzoo, Trouble, Roach Gigz and Young Guru.

If you would like to perform at this event or to know more about it go to this link http://www.a3cfestival.com/perform.

This is your girl Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Recommendations http://www.sonicbids.com/

     Hello everyone I just wanted you to know about this site that I use called SonicBids.com. You would be completely amazed to find out about all the shows and events searching for artist like yourself or just artist who make music to license for movies, TV shows, or plays.
     Once you've registered with SonicBids and agree to pay the small monthly fee you're then invited to apply for the vast array of shows and events.  If I'm not mistaken you can try the service for a month free.
     I recommend this site if you're currently interested in touring or just wanting to know what your options are for future gigs.
     Here's the link, http://www.sonicbids.com/, now go and check it out for yourself.  It may be what you need to go to the next level in your music career.
     As always I'm your girl, Lady PJ, and information is power so be informed.

FYI:  I would so love to hear about your experience with this company.  Thank you.

Please, donate to Artist House Music!!!!

     This is a widget from http://www.artistshousemusic.org/Video on Entrepreneurship.  I really have a world of faith in this site because it's free information from very important people but the company operates from donations.  You need information on a particular subject you can go to this site and look it up, more than likely they have a video tutorial on it.
     Well, I just learned that the site may be shut down; that would really be a big loss for us independent artist that don't have the funding for the free lessons Artist House Music provides. So I am asking you guys if you can help I really wish you would.  Unfortunately, some of the videos are not working properly so you will have to scroll down (the scroll is on the right hand side) to get to the videos then select a video to view.
     Thank you.  I'm Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Knowledge Can Save You Money

     This past Thursday and I wanted to stop by Guitar Center to see what they had on sale.  Just me being nosy that's all.  While I'm there I notice this young man is inquiring about buying Pro-Tools vs. Komplete.  I listened for a bit to the conversation they were having because they were discussing which software is better to buy.  I let the clerk handle that part.
     After that was resolved I jumped in with a did you know that...  I'm so like that sometimes because I just have to say my peace.  Did you know that Guitar Center has discounts that these guys at the register might not tell you about (I of course was not trying to be rude so I quickly apologized to the clerk for my wording), or that if you go on-line the prices may be considerably less than inside the store -and if you ask- the clerk (I'm now looking at the clerk for confirmation) will look it up for you, or that the store will at times mail out discount coupons sometimes at up to 25% off, and finally that they will price match?
     That young man had no idea but he did manage to get Komplete for $499.00 at a 12% discount; that he had no idea about.  I'm Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Recommendation: http://www.eventbrite.com/

Honey today I'm just going to inform you of this site that I love called Eventbrite.  Let me just tell you the advantages to this site; you can create an event, create tickets for the event, sell the tickets from the page, you set your ticket price, and it gives you information on how many tickets are sold.  Plus you can post your event through the site on Facebook or Twitter (social media sites), but the real advantage to this site is that your fans can pay through the service by Paypal or Google.  As an independent artist you know how expensive it is to get them tickets pressed up then you don't sell them all.  You know what I mean. Well you don't have to worry about that wasted money because you have sites like Eventbrite.  Now here is the link in case you need it in the foreseeable future:  http://www.eventbrite.com.

As always I am Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

The CBGB Festival 2013 is accepting submissions

CBGB (Country, BlueGrass, and Blues) was a music club at 315 Bowery at Bleecker Street in the borough of Manhattan in New York City. Founded by Hilly Kristal in 1973, it was originally intended to feature its namesake musical styles, but became a forum for American punk and New Wave bands like Ramones, Misfits, Television, the Patti Smith Group, Mink DeVille, The Dead Boys, The Dictators, The Fleshtones, The Voidoids, The Cramps, Blondie, The Shirts, and Talking Heads.

The CBGB Festival is a five day event October 9-13, 2013 and is held in New York City. 
Showcase your artistic talents to leading record executives, Award winning producers, managers, agents, fans but submissions close August 2nd.

• Music showcase
• Film Screening
• Music Conference
• Film Conference
• Spirit Festival

Here is a link to the event:  http://www.cbgb.com/festival.php.  If you are a member of Sonicbids you can sign up for a chance to perform.

As always I'm Lady PJ and information is power so be informed.

Book Review: Making Music Your Business

Book: Making Music Your business, A Practical Guide To Making $ Doing What You Love
Author:  Traci Truly Attorney At Law
Copyright:  2005
Published by:  Sphinx Publishing
Link to Purchase:

                                                                   

I finished reading this book today; I really found it to have a wealth of information and it was such an easy read.  The thing I liked the most about the book was that it covered artist contracts. It explained some of the things that you should know as an artist before you sign a contract with a record label.  There is also a section in the book about taxes, partnerships, collaborations, publishing, and copyrighting your music.  I would really recommend this book if you want to know more about the business side of music.  It's not a technical book, so it doesn't go into great detail but it gives you a lot of information to get started.

There is a link at the top of the page for your convenience if you would like to purchase this book.  Right now it's listed on Amazon for $27.99, so it's very affordable.  As always information is power, be informed.  I am Lady PJ.

Artist Introduction: Lady Vita

     I met this artist at The Billard's Club in Mobile Alabama and she is truly an artist to look out for in the future.  She raps and sings.  She has such fire on the stage and she's fearless.  I'm just going to say that it's a pleasure for me to introduce her to you as Lady Vita; born Devita Davidson.  One of Mobile's finest.
     Please take the time to check out her music.  I know that you will enjoy it as I do.

Send Newsletters to your fans from ReverbNation.com

twitter Lady Vita251

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mowet/id600584062
http://www.showcaseyourmusic.com/Ladyvita
http://youtu.be/8YUGsCPtHDQ

Artist BIO

My name is Devita Davidson. I was born and raised in mobile Alabama. I was raised up in the church choir where my grandfather was pastor. My aunt formed a gospel group and called it "The rising stars". I was raised up in a world full of music for so many years that it aspired me to become a part of the music industry. At an early age I formed a group called "unpredictable" this was a female R&B group. We performed at many local functions but over time the group dismantled and went our separate ways, my passion didn’t die. Over the years I struggled to find who I was as an artist. I am driven determined and motivated. I am "Lady Vita".

My music is who I am, it tells my story where I've been and where I aspire to be. My music takes me to a place where I can achieve greatness and I want to share this with the world! The lyrics in my music would encourage anyone to find the greatness within and the confidence to share it with the world.

Some of my musical influences were Pattie La Belle, Gladys Knight, Reba mackintosh, Jamie Fox, Jay Z, Diddy Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj just to name a few. These artists helped me to develop my own sound, a different swagger. My lyrics are stories you can relate to so you can just ride and bob your head. My sound is unique; I have a laid back sexy cool swag.

I am currently working on my first album release “Mowet” coming in late October. I have a couple of songs available on Reverbnation/ Lady Vita.
I am also working the clubs in Mobile Alabama, Daphne, Mississippi, Atlanta Georgia, and surrounding areas. I am in the process of shooting my first music video coming soon….

I will remain motivated and determined to be one of the best female artists in the rap game through hard work and dedication, through the mist of it all I will stay true to the love of my life. Instead of watching the BET award show I will be performing at the BET award show.

Contact Information:
Ladyvita2516@gmail.com
Reverbnation/ladyvita
Discover me on Twitter @Ladyvita251
Facebook Devita Davidson

I really hope you enjoyed this artist.  Much love to you and welcome to my world so very thrilled to be a part of yours. As always I am Lady PJ.

Getting Back to Music

     Okay, so I'm going back into the studio tomorrow to work on the new album.  I finally have a team to help me.  I'm really excited about getting back to what I love doing, and that's creating.  I've been doing everything myself so it's going to be nice to have a different set of ears and other creative people around me.  I don't consider myself a singer but my team seems to think otherwise and I'm starting to think that maybe I haven't really been giving myself enough credit.  It's just mindset and I need to change mine.
     I've also decided to enter two of my songs in a contest; to win a showcase.  I don't know how it will turn out but I need to know where my music stands.  It's time to get back into that creative mode.  Now that I have a team behind me I don't want to mess up this opportunity.

Learn how to get a song on itunes at ReverbNation.com