Buying in bulk.  Discounts.  Loads of trusted vendors.  These are a few reasons people shop at Walmart.  People like the safety of having someone do the hard work for them.  The searching for low prices, quality products, and the latest trends.  You walk in, take a look at the shelf that has already been carefully researched and stocked, and you purchase the item.  You’re in and out and on your way in no time.
How the Charts Are Like Walmart
The charts are similar to the Walmarts of the world; they curate a list …

While I’m doing music reviews on new independent artists, here are my thoughts on a singer/songwriter named Kenny Greco from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  He’s a guy that almost gave up on music and then decided to go ahead and record an album his way. I give him props for dropping everything else to pursue his passion.  Not many people are willing to take that risk.
At first listen, it is clear that Kenny has strong rock and country influences.  However, the country influence doesn’t seem to mesh quite right with his songwriting.  …

I recently downloaded Kevin Cott’s first album, “Equilibrium.”  I had heard some of his early stuff a few years back and was looking forward to hearing this full album.  After listening to this album in the car, in the airport, and in my office, I’ve decided to write down my thoughts on the record.
He has a very likable, listenable sound.  His style of songwriting is dynamic, bringing the listener up and down.  The music is never boring.  I would even say that you could remove the vocals and have a great …

You’re in a band.  You’re writing songs and getting ready to record.  You’ve thought about using a producer, but you’re not sure what exactly they do.  All you know is that a lot of bands use them.
Are you a producer?
Most people think of music or record producers as the people that stand in the control room of the studio with their arms crossed, nodding their head either in approval or disapproval.  These type of producers are more of the managerial type, keeping the band on schedule and/or budget.  Others know …

I am beginning a new series of blog posts regarding the new music industry.  In it I will layout some definitions, myths, and truths as they pertain to the music industry, record industry, radio industry, and more.  These industries are notorious for confusing the musicians, fans, and businesses that work in them.  Let’s try to get some things cleared up.
First, the music industry is not the record industry. Let’s get that straight. The music industry is comprised of musicians; the record industry is made up of corporations and business people.
Secondly, CD …