Songsalive! Speakers   who have been guests of our Workshops

See upcoming speakers here


 in alphabetical order



   Alethia Austin

Alethia started her journey in music by writing about and reviewing unknown indie bands that played tiny venues all over Los Angeles. Hundreds of shows and many, many late nights later she joined the two-man crew of A&R Select as an intern when the company was merely one month old. Hard work, long hours and a roaring passion for discovering bands and working with creatives helped Alethia to become a lead player at A&R Select. After two years as VP of Operations, she decided to follow her attraction of music and film and left A&R Select to become a music supervisor. Numerous films and TV shows later, Alethia is working independently on movies and tv shows, as well as consulting for 35Sound Music Supervision.

Los Angeles Workshop: Sunday January 17, 2010, "The breakdown of Music Placement in Film/TV for the Artist"

Moses Avalon

Mr. Avalon began his career as a New York record producer and recording engineer. His combined work with Grammy® award-winning recording artists has earned him RIAA Platinum record awards as well as other awards.  Today he is an artist’s rights activist and the author of a top selling music industry reference, Million Dollar Mistakes and also Confessions Of A Record Producer which is required reading in the music business curriculum of over 40 schools, including UCLA, Loyola Law School, Fullsail and NYU. Mr. Avalon is a court-recognized music business expert in New York, California and Florida and has also acted in an advisory capacity to the Senate Judiciary Committee in their campaign to help legitimize areas of the music business. His award winning website which discusses controversial issues in the music business and his advocacy efforts can be visited at his website.  His syndicated newsletter, MOSES SUPPOSES, which features informed editorials on the inner workings of the music business, reaches over 13,000 subscribers each month.

John Battaglia

John Battaglia is the founder and president of Rockstar Image, an image-building and personal coaching firm for artists. He's been the imaging and marketing agent for Usher, Beyonce, Jessica Simpson, Eve and many other music stars. No matter what you're up to, you can be a rockstar at it. Join John Battaglia, author, speaker, personal coach, and image consultant, as he shares that in order to be a success, one must adopt the strategy of approaching life like a rockstar, and harness the inner rockstar that we each have in ourselves. John shares his expertise on the qualities and traits of successful rockstars and how to apply them in your life, no matter if you're an actor, executive, salesperson, entrepreneur, or actually a musician. For more info, please visit his website. Spoke at New York Workshop.

Bernard Baur

Bernard Baur is an artist crusader and award-winning journalist. He’s credited with over1000 published articles - almost 600 of them in Music Connection magazine where he is the Review Editor, Feature Writer and A&R columnist.  With over twenty years in the biz, Bernard has worked with signed and unsigned artists as a former attorney, director of business affairs and A&R executive. For many acts he has been the connection between the streets and the suites. Recently, Bernard formed BGO Entertainment Network, a Development & Production company, with famed producer Dito Godwin (No Doubt, Motley Crue, KISS, Carlton Pride, etc). BGO’s primary mission is to “Empower Artists.” Spoke at LA Workshop.

PAUL BORDENKIRCHER

Paul brings nearly a quarter century of music business and technology experience as a faculty member at the International Academy of Design and Technology. As a recording engineer, he lists over a half dozen major and independent releases to his credit, and dozens more in marketing and promotion. His leadership at major labels such as EMI, Gospo Centric and Integrity Music helped usher in the current contemporary worship movement, and set a new paradigm for church music projects. He has taught music technology and business at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.  He is a live sound engineer as part of the local IATSE stagehands union, and is a member of the Music and Entertainment Industry Educator’s Association. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Industry from Minnesota State University, Moorhead. 

Bobby Borg

Bobby Borg, major label, DIY and Indie label recording/touring artist, music business educator, A&R consultant to music supervisors, labels and producers, feature magazine columnist, with 25 year experience in the music business. Visit his Website at www.bobbyborg.com.
New York Workshop: Tues Dec 30 08 / Orange County Workshop: July 27th, 08 / Los Angeles Workshop: Aug 17, 08: Lecture and Book Signing Event. "Get Heard, Get Seen, Get Signed"

Lou Bradley

Lou Bradley made her Hillbilly Pop ep at the end of last year and so far every song comp or awards entered, has resulted in her being a finalist or a winner. She has attracted industry interest from big wig managers...one from the USA, and been asked to do heaps of radio interviews this year. She was runner up in the folk category for the second song on the ep @ Australian Songwriters Awards. She has just returned from a tour, funded by the John Butler Seed Grant, from Mullumbimby to Darwin.  She won her "Road to Tamworth" heat and is in the running to go to Nashville. She won the ABC radio "Live in Your Lounge Room" Country Competition. She is a finalist at the CCMA awards in Tamworth this year. She has been selected to attend the CMAA College - which is very prestigious! Lou will be sharing with the Songsalive! workshop participants, her experience as songwriter, performing artist and recording artist living in the North Coast area.  Spoke at Byron Bay Australia Workshop: Dec 2005.

John Braheny

John Braheny is a top consultant/coach for songwriters, writer/artists and music industry entrepreneurs. His book, The Craft and Business of Songwriting has sold over 70,000 copies (Currently in 3rd Edition). John music career has encompassed many years as a solo acoustic performer, songwriter, followed by recording artist and commercial jingle writer/producer. He and Len Chandler founded and ran the legendary Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase (1971-1996). He's past president of California Copyright Conference (www.theCCC.org), and served for eight years on the L.A. Chapter Board of Governors of N.A.R.A.S (www.Grammy.com). He conducted, edited and produced more than 50 interviews with hit songwriters and producers for United Airlines Inflight Entertainment. He's a consultant and screener for TAXI.com, teacher and journalist. For a full bio on John and his critique/consulting services, go to www.johnbraheny.com 

Los Angeles, CA Workshop  - Sun September 21, 2008          
TOPIC: Are your songs ready for film/TV?
Learn what kinds of songs work well for film and TV? What are the legal issues you have to take care of before pitching? Are your recordings “broadcast quality”? What do music libraries do? How do you get to them? I’ll discuss pros and cons of music libraries, music publishers,  independent song pitchers and online services and how you get paid. I’ll have some handouts too: Work For Hire Agreement. Royalty Flow Chart for Film/TV.

David Brownstein

David Brownstein is the President and Founder of Hollywood Coaching, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development Company in Los Angeles that specializes exclusively in the Entertainment Industry. A Professionally trained and ICF-Certified Executive Coach, he has developed an approach to coaching, facilitation and workshop/retreats that are well suited to entertainment industry executives. David has a natural ability to bring out the best in their leadership styles and to awaken new skills that are right for the person, their company and their industry. David's 2-day “Extreme Leadership” workshop helps executives develop their personal leadership style and structures for accountability while leading their company and teams more collaboratively.  David also composed and produced the Hip-Hop soundtrack for the award winning “Bomb’s Aren’t Cool” educational music video that won festival awards in New York, Chicago, Seattle, France, Canada, and Japan and continues to air on WNET/13’s Independent Focus. He has taught film producing and production management at the Academy of Art College in San Francisco and is a member of the National Recording Academy (NARAS) in the Music Producer and Music-Video Producer categories. David graduated from Hampshire College in Amherst, MA with a BA in Filmmaking and Psychology and received his Coaching Certification from the Coaches Training Institute in San Rafael. Click here to visit his website. Spoke at LA Workshop about "Marketing Your Music"

Marcy Morgan Bulkeley
BLT & Assoc. an entertainment marketing and advertising company.
Marcy Bulkeley graduated Emerson College with a degree in Audio/Radio Production focusing a directed study in film and television music. Her education continued in Los Angeles at UCLA with their extension program, studying Music Supervision, Publishing, and Music Copyright & Law.  Currently Marcy is music supervisor for BLT, an entertainment marketing and advertising company, working primarily on film advertising campaigns. Marcy continues to take on music supervision and consulting projects including several independent films, broadcast promotional spots. She has held positions such as head of soundtrack acquisitions and creative licensing at Milan Records, head of Operations for Michael Smith Event Music (MSEM). She has worked with URB magazine and SCION, licensing and choosing music for several SCION promotional DVDs, and Universal Music Group in the copyright department negotiating rates and obtaining mechanical licenses for their strategic markets department. Major feature film credits include music coordinator for Bob Odenkirk's film "Let's Go To Prison", released by Universal in November 2006, and "One Eyed Monster" in 2007. Marcy has worked closely with G Marq Rosewell at 35sounds. Marcy's synch placements include Dexter, CSI, True Blood, Paramount's "Babel", Fox's "Dollhouse", SONY Picture's "Blood Diamond" and "The Holiday", just to name a few.
Los Angeles Workshop - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18  -TOPIC: "music placement in advertising and film trailers" 

Julia Henry

Julia Henry is an independent music supervisor, consultant and artist manager.  Getting her start in the Fox Sports Music department as an intern, assistant and then supervisor, she continues to place music in sports programming and stadiums/arenas around the world.  Julia also supervises many independent projects as well including new media and film. Her credits include such high profile sporting events as the Super Bowl, NFL Pro Bowl, World Series, MLB All Star Game, Daytona 500, U.S. Grand Prix, NHL Playoffs, BCS Championship Series and the AVP Manhattan Beach Open. Julia has worked with such talent as Ziggy Marley, Eminem/50 Cent, Rick Ross, Pennywise, Sinead O’Connor, Def Leppard, Kool Moe Dee, KRS-1, Young MC, DJ AM and Travis Barker.  Learrn about how music is used in live sports programming from music supervisor Julia Henry. 

Robert A. Case

Robert A. Case, President of New Pants Publishing, Inc. (ASCAP) and Old Pants Publishing, Inc. (BMI) is a graduate of the Colorado Institute of Art, Denver, Colorado in the USA with an Associates Degree in Business with an emphasis in Music and Video Business. He completed studies at Community College of Denver in Business Administration and Marketing. Mr. Case’s songwriter's songs have appeared in TV shows placements including on FOX SPORTS, Discovery Channel, NBC Friday Night Lights, the New CBS Primetime show Love Monkey, One Life to Live on ABC Daytime, the Soap Network and South Park on Comedy Central in the US and Internationally in Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. Mr. Case's companies are proud members of ASCAP, BMI, ACM- Academy of Country Music and The Recording Academy. (Grammy), NATPE-National Association of TV Programs Executives and the Association of Independent Music Publishers. Mr. Case has produced and released several CDs through the years that have been on the Grammy Entry List in 30 separate categories including Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year. Mr. Case has appeared Internationally and Nationally on several music panels and workshops as a speaker including William Patterson University, New Jersey, Songsalive! Music Publishing Workshops, Sydney, Australia, and Los Angeles, Songnet Music Publishing Workshops Los Angeles, The Taxi Road Rally Los Angeles, The Dallas Songwriters Association A&R Workshop, Atlantis Music Conference, Vegas Music Conference, Dewey Beach Music Conference The Millennium Music Conference The Global Entertainment Summit Los Angeles and New York, The Cutting Edge Music Conference New Orleans, The Independent Music Conference Philadelphia, Publishing Panel, Dallas IMC Publishing Panel, The Indy Sessions Radio Panel Los Angeles, The Indianapolis Music Conference Publishing Panel, The Crossroads Music Conference - Independent Label Panel and Booking and Touring Career Development Panel Memphis just to name a few. Rob Case has spoken  at many of our Songsalive! Chapter workshops, including Sydney Australia, Austin TX, Huntsville AL, Las Vegas, Orange County, Los Angeles and New York. Where will he be speaking next?

Sydney Workshop, Tuesday June 2, 2009 - Music publishing

Allan Caswell

Internationally acclaimed songwriter Allan Caswell, also a very generous guest speaker, who came along when the doors opened at 7.30, sat and listened to several songs before his talk. He spoke about his experiences as a singer and songwriter, answered questions, told a few industry secrets and stayed and listened to and critiqued the rest of the songs played until the very end.  The next day Allan phoned me to say how much he enjoyed being part of our workshop and how very impressed he was with the songwriting talent of our members. Allan is perhaps best known for writing ‘On the Inside’ the theme song from the hit TV series ‘Prisoner’, and is one of Australia’s most recorded artists with over 400 songs recorded worldwide. Allan’s resume includes five Golden Guitars at Tamworth, two Gold Singles, an ARIA Award, as well as one platinum and four gold albums for the hugely successful children’s albums by Don Spencer.  His new album 'Don't Count On it' with Gangajang's legendary Buzz Bidstrup shows a new and harder edged side to this ever-creative talent.  Go to Allan's website

Sydney Workshop: June 2004

Barbara Cloyd

Over years of performing and hosting writers nights in Nashville, Barbara Cloyd's energetic personality and genuine love for songwriters has endeared her to the community. She has served as a workshop moderator for the Nashville Songwriters Association (NSAI) and was the creator and host of the long-running Country Song Contest at Gibson Cafe which helped many writers make connections in the music industry. She has hosted popular writers nights at local venues such as Radio Cafe, The French Quarter and The Broken Spoke. Currently she books all the early shows at the Bluebird Cafe, writes a question/answer column for hestagehand.com, is a board member for the Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival, and a mentor for Just Plain Folks. For this workshop, "Writing For The Row", participants will create a list of some of their favorite hit songs and examine them, using a series of exercises to bring out some of the main qualities a song needs in order to get cut on Music Row.

Huntsville Alabama Workshop: Sat. Jan 12 2006 - "Writing for the Row" - An overview of the craft and business of professional songwriting in Nashville presented by Barbara Cloyd, hit songwriter and host of The Bluebird Cafe. Focusing on a music industry discussion - "Songwriting/Publishing”

Nashville Workshop: Sat. April 21 2008 - 5pm - 7pm at Caffeine's - "Writing for Music Row"

Cat Cohen

Los Angeles Workshop – Sunday, August 16
- TOPIC: "Songwriting for an Original Act (Your Own or Someone Else's)"
Cat will be critiquing songs and also be offering CD Reviews for members only who attend and participate in the workshop. Previous dates:
Vegas Chapter:  Monday May 18, 2009
Los Angeles Workshop: Sunday March 3rd 2008 - Writing Songs for Your Original Act
Los Angeles Workshop: July 03

Amanda Colliver

Being a vocal coach, Amanda’s talk was very close to my heart.  Members and guests were very impressed when they heard about her experiences during her time spent teaching Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor and many other Musical stars. Amanda has spent many years as a vocal teacher to the stars (including Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, Hugh Jackman, Paul Mecurio and many others) and was a highly respected Vocal Tutor at Nida. She has worked as Vocal Advisor on many major shows including; Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserable, Miss Saigon, Chicago, Boy from Oz. Her most recent work was as Vocal Coach and session singer on Moulin Rouge and the recording of her own original album.

Sydney Workshop: March 2004

Andrew Covell

Andrew Covell has been a composer, producer, arranger and performer for more than 20 years. In a versatile career that has included everything from playing sessions with John Farnham and Jimmy Barnes, to producing Marcia Hines and Frenzal Rhomb, to singing for the Australian Opera, Andrew has always been first and foremost, a songwriter. Having written tracks for Kate Ceberano, Marcia Hines, Tina Arena and Anthony Warlow, and produced and co-written literally hundreds of songs for developing and independent artists, his primary interest is storytelling through melody, harmony and rhythm. If the lyrics contain the narrative detail of a song, the music provides the ritual magic that colours and flavours its meaning.

Film is often described as storytelling in pictures. While every movie starts with a written script, it is ultimately how the film looks (tone), and how it is cut (rhythm), that determine how the director tells the story. Andrew Covell will talk about how to rely less on your lyrics and how to make your melodies, chords and beats do more of the heavy lifting.

Brian Corber

Brian L. Corber has been an attorney for more than 20 years, much of which he has spent as an expert on the music and entertainment businesses; h has represented the Film Music Network, the Webcaster Alliance and indiecharts.com and was an advisor to Just Plain Folk Los Angeles group. 
Los Angeles, CA Workshop  - Sun November 16, 2008  - Topic:  The art of reading a contract for the important deal points, things to look for aside from money, the snaky things put into music deals.

Roger Corbett

Roger Corbett has been a member of the legendary Bushwackers Band since 1980. Now in their 35th year and with 17 albums behind them, The Bushwackers have an enviable reputation as the premier Australiana band in the world. Roger Corbett was a senior tutor and the Director of The CMAA College of Country Music for eight years. During that time he ran the songwriting course teaching such stars as Sara Storer, Brooke McClymont and Brendon Walmesly. Roger conducts many workshops and seminars, including the Tamworth Camerata, around the country mainly in the craft of songwriting and studio production but encompassing performance, musicianship and music business. Roger Corbett owns The Valley Studio in the Blue Mountains and has worked with many new performer/songwriters helping them to achieve success in the Country Music Industry and has been nominated three times at the CMAA Achiever Awards in the Producer of The Year category. Roger Corbett continues to write songs, perform, teach and produce, has been a board member of the CMAA and continues to serve on the CMAA Talent Development Sub-committee.

Sydney Workshop: Nov 2 2005 - Titles Workshop; and August 2005

Barry DeVorzon                                                                                                                                                                            Songwriter, Composer and Creator of MasterWriter

Composer/Artists Barry DeVorzon has long been a prominent name in the recording industry. He has had a total of twenty hit records, which he has written and/or produced.  He discovered the highly successful group, The Association, and developed one of the most successful independent record and publishing companies of that time.  He later sold his record company and his publishing company 'Tamerland' to Warner Brothers.  He has composed the music for a number of major features, among which are "Bless the Beasts and the Children",  “Hard Times”, “Dillinger”, “The Warriors”, “Ninth Configuration”, “Xanadu”, “Tattoo”, “Looker”, and “Exorcist III”. His TV credits inlcude “S.W.A.T.”, “Simon and Simon”, “Renegades”, “Private Benjamin”, "V", “The New Twilight Zone”, “Intimate Strangers”, and “The Belarus File”.

Los Angeles Workshop: Sunday Sept 5 2004

Matthew Donlevy

Matthew is the Managing Director of the Australian arm of Peer Music Publishing. Matthew has come along to many workshops over the past eight years to talk about the benefits of Publishing Company’s.  Matthew always stays for the duration of each workshop he attends to take part in song critique, and imparts a wealth of information.  Matthew will be the first to point out to Songsalive! Members ‘Never Give Up’

Sydney Workshop: March 2005

Sue Duchesne

A few years ago, Sue had ‘a big idea’ during the country music festival in Tamworth. Deciding it was worth pursuing, she developed her idea into a small business that received interest and eventual backing from AusIndustry, through its Commercial-Ready-Grant program. From these small beginnings, Sue has grown her idea into the recently launched online platform for new music - www.songcentral.com.au  Being close to the plight of songwriters and composers, for whom opportunities to have their songs/music heard and considered rarely exists, unless they are known by or know someone in the business. She became passionate about finding a way to bridge the gap that exists between the creators of songs and music and those in a position to use this material commercially. Her goal was to create a solution that provides songwriters and composers with those opportunities, and, at the same time as provide potential users of that music – artists, performers, publishers and producers (from a range of industries and mediums) with a much wider pool of talent and material from which to source & select. No schmoozing required for the creators and no time consuming ‘meet and greets’ required for the potential users. www.songcentral.com.au provides songwriters and composers with a range of online services, including storage, version management and playback facilities. Membership to this online songwriting community opens up a range of opportunities, such as the ability to showcase and market their material, respond to industry tenders, as well as to find and be found by potential collaborators. Registration for bona fide industry users is free, opening up a whole new world of time-effective possibilities for their commercial needs. “The Song Central platform allows writers to find each other and to work together. And it enables our industry to find their songs. Song Central is a very, very good idea!” Brian Cadd, 2007

Sydney Australia Workshop: Tuesday June 3 

Margo Drgos

Margo Drgos and Paul Anthony started Organic Entertainment in 2005 after spending several years developing and launching corporate communications programs for both start-ups and existing brands within the music, media, online retail and technologies industries. Their passion for music, particularly within the NYC independent scene, forced them to acknowledge an emerging market not yet well met by a morphing and shifting industry. Organic Entertainment abides by the concept that independent record labels and the musicians they represent are much like any other brand in an already over saturated marketplace. Our campaigns empower clients to define and effectively communicate their brand messages through creative, homegrown and consistently authentic means. This belief is rooted firmly in a proven philosophy that there is simply no better way to cultivate a brand that will reap a sustainable return-on-investment. Reaching mainstream and independent media through publicity and radio promotion along with marketing and branding strategies are services that Organic Entertainment offers clients exclusively within the global independent music community.

New York Workshop: Sun January 28, 2007

Bryan Farrish

Los Angeles Workshop: December 02

Chris Fletcher

Since 1989 Chris Fletcher has been operating her own booking & promotion company, Coast to Coast Music. She has worked with over 30 artists securing tours, endorsements, and grants and executing promotional plans. Chris developed and is teaching music business & touring classes at Musicians Institute & LA Music Academy plus works as a booking manager with 3 solo artists, 2 bands and a voiceover personality. See more at the website.

Los Angeles Workshop: Sun. May 7, 10am - 2pm at Mazzarino's - "Indie Booking, Touring and Marketing", and Sunday November 7 2004

Matt Forger

LA based Matt Forger met and worked with Michael Jackson on the ‘THRILLER’ album and also worked on the ‘E.T. STORYBOOK ALBUM’ with Quincy Jones and Steven Spielberg producing. Following the remarkable success of the album, Matt worked on the groundbreaking ‘THRILLER VIDEO’ with director John Landis. He has also worked with Quincy Jones, Rod Temperton, Bruce Swedien, Japanese superstar Yuming, and on Michael Jackson's film project  ‘GHOSTS’ with director Stan Winston. Among the other works Matt has completed are his efforts on the re-mastering and adding of bonus tracks to the Michael Jackson ‘Special Edition’ albums; ‘OFF THE WALL’, ‘THRILLER’, ‘BAD’, and ‘DANGEROUS’.  The nature of Matt’s involvement with Michael Jackson is extensive. Forger provided a technical foundation, and relaxed studio environment for the creativity of the artist to flourish where Michael would write and develop songs and arrangements. “This process of experimentation, exploration of sound, and application of new technologies, is always challenging, but can also be most rewarding,” says Forger. This year has found Matt working in the LA singer/songwriter community, working with many new and promising artists. Matt is also offering his services as a consultant, for the creative recording arts. The basis for his work is the emotional content of the recording. “Remembering that music is a form of emotional communication is important” Matt says, “Too many people view recording as a technical experience. It is important to understand technology and be able to control and it, but it’s the music at center stage. It’s the song people remember, not the recording system.” Matt is also recording in a classic format with exciting new results. Matt calls it ‘reality recording’, this is a live to 2-track recording style that uses a carefully placed single stereo microphone and a high quality signal path. It is capturing the moment of a great performance, and putting the listener there in the environment to share the experience. "It is especially well suited to acoustic performances and elegant in its’ simplicity," says Forger. Click here to visit his website.

Los Angeles Workshop: Sunday October 3  2004

Steve Fox

Los Angeles Workshop: March 03

Freebo

From top sideman/bassist (Bonnie Raitt, John Mayall, CSN, Maria Muldaur, Ringo Starr) to award-winning singer/songwriter (2007 Los Angeles Music Awards "Best Folk Artist", winner '07 S. Florida Folk Fest. Songwriting Contest, 5 nominations in 5 different categories JPF Awards, 2 songs in top 10 of USA Songwriting Contest), Freebo continues to push his creative envelope. Now he has chosen to share the many things he's learned over the years. In this hybrid workshop, Freebo will give you specific tools and hints for your songwriting, song-arrangement, and performing, all within the context of honoring your special gifts and giving yourself permission and the courage to become the artist/musician you've always wanted to be. In a world of judgement and criticism, we are filled with the voices of others telling us how to be. Freebo will help you to find your own voice, figuratively and literally. Along with the craft of songwriting, he will also help you to shape your song with arrangement, chord substitutions, and phrasing ideas. And in performing your song, Freebo covers the topics of fear, preparation, tools, timing, and communication. How do you connect to your audience? You become one with them!

Renee French

Renee French is a writer/artist/voice coach in Austin, Texas, having taught at the Austin School of Music since 1996. Hundreds of students of all ages and abilities, professional to beginner, have benefited from studying with

this naturally gifted singer, songwriter and pianist. Renee began singing at age 8, stopping only for a few years to major in Child Development/Family Relationships at UT Austin, and to teach preschool! Her music education

comes from 10 years of private piano instruction and many years of varied music experience; some notable teachers being Pat Pattison, founder of the songwriting department at Boston s Berklee College of Music, and Debbie Beinhorn, world-renown vocal expert. Renee coaches voice using the Beinhorn Method.

Two Way Mirror  is Renee's CD of 11 original songs, released in 2005, produced by Dave Sebree at ASM studios. Mark Waterbury for Music Morsels says:  mesmerizing her sweet voice with the poise and control of a classical

or standards crooner fits pleasantly into a singer/songwriter backdrop. Backed by several noted musicians, the music is dreamy but attention-grabbing with a stunning vocal beauty.  The CD is available at Waterloo Records, and online at CDbaby, iTunes, and SonyConnect.

Renee is a past president of the Austin Songwriters Group, and a SESAC affiliate. She has shared the stage with hit songwriters Eric Kaz, Mark D. Sanders, Jim Rushing, and Darden Smith, among others. She has appeared on

FOX television s morning show, and played live on Austin s KLBJ radio. She also watches a lot of baseball.

Learn more about Renee at her website.

Austin Workshop: December 13, 2007  “Taming the Voices: connecting singer to songwriter" and Q&A discussion.

Scott G

Scott G (The G-Man) is a recording artist on Delvian Records and iTunes, and a journalist with the Immedia Wire Service and MusicDish.com. He makes commercials at G-Man Music & Radical Radio, and is a creative director for NARIP (National Association of Record Industry Professionals). His 3rd album, "The Platinum Age of the Remix," is in the Top 40 on the Masspool DJ Association Dance/Crossover national chart. An article he wrote on 'advertainment" entitled "Barcodes in Commercials & Wristwatch Credit Cards" is on 100+ Web sites. An article written about his career, "Peer-to-Peer to Launch a Career," is on 200+ Web sites. Contact him through his website here.

Los Angeles Workshop: August 2004 - MUSIC, the MEDIA and YOU

Franne Golde

Franne Golde is a multi-talented, songwriter, musician and singer, whose songs have appeared on more than 100 million records worldwide.

She has written for many multi-platinum artists including: The Pussycat Dolls, Selena, Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Jody Watley, Jessica Simpson, The Commodores, Diana Ross, Dennis Edwards etc.

She has received four Grammy awards and several BMI awards. Her new song "NOTHIN’ BUT LOVE" appears on Whitney Houston’s new Platinum CD.

She is currently writing a memoir, which weaves together her personal tragedies and triumphs with the story of her success in the music business. Learn more about Franne at myspace.com/frannegolde  Los

Los Angeles Workshop  – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
TOPIC: ”A Real Life Story: How Songwriters Get Cuts with Other Artists and in Films and Television”

Jeff Gray                                                                                                                                              Retrofit Tunes , President

Musicians and songwriters with a sense of business are a unique breed.  Jeff Gray is such a talent.  Working with independent songwriters Jeff earned a strong reputation for instilling confidence in those he wrote and performed with.  An outstanding guitarist, Jeff’s passion for music and specifically songs blossomed into fervor for the music business. Recognizing that great song writing is essential, Jeff became active in music publishing working for Bug Music.  While in the company, he was rewarded for his skills receiving several promotions.  His work with such artists as Jennifer Marks, Janis Ian, Anne McCue, members of the Guess Who and Superdrag were to lead to an opportunity with legendary producer Geza X.  This opportunity gave birth to the founding of Retrofit Tunes.

Los Angeles Workshop: November 03

Alexia Helfand                                                                                                                                     Co-founder, Music Gorilla

Alexia has worked in the entertainment industry, since she started working. As a student at New York University, she was a producing and business major. She interned at such places as Fox News Channel, Tribeca Productions (Robert DeNiro) and Creative Film Management (commercial production). She also produced the thesis films of several Tisch film students with budgets ranging from $10,000 to $150,000. After graduating in 1998, she continued her film career. First working at Miramax films, and then freelancing on such films as The Family Man and Someone Like You with Executive Producer Lynda Obst (now a mentor of sorts). After joining Local 161, she worked as the Assistant Production Coordinator on the television show Big Apple. She decided to move away from her hometown of New York City, to the more relaxed environment of Austin, Texas. In Austin, she worked as the Post Production Coordinator on Spy Kids 2 and Once Upon A Time In Mexico with Elizabeth Avellan and Robert Rodriguez. "Alexia is the hardest working woman in the independent music business!! You are a true soldier of the independent movement and we see your passion for music, and we're proud to be affiliated with Music Gorilla, partially because you're associated with it. Keep up the good work!!" –Darvio Morrow, Untouchable Clique C.E.O.

Austin TX Workshop: Thursday, Dec 14th, 6-8pm at Cafe Caffeine.

Elisabeth Howard

Elisabeth Howard holds a B.S. and M.S. in voice from the Juilliard School and a Graduate Assistantship from Indiana University. Elisabeth has been called a “vocal chameleon.” Her expertise and ability to sing in styles from blues, R&B and country western, to jazz, music theater and opera has taken her to 23 cities in ten countries presenting Vocal Power workshops at national and international voice teachers conferences. Ms. Howard was on the voice faculty of Pepperdine University for seven years and has been on the faculties of Hunter College and a guest faculty member at the University of Southern California. Elisabeth is founder of the Vocal Power Academy in Los Angeles and in 2006 established a branch in Las Vegas. Vocal Power Instructors are in Italy, Germany and Brazil. Her students have been on American Idol, Star Search, Broadway and National tours. As singer/song-writer in New York, Elisabeth had a contract with MCA Music. Ms. Howard has had lead roles in over 25 musicals and operas. Elisabeth is the author of the new SING! book and CDs and ABCs of Vocal Harmony book and CDs and co-author of the Born to Sing DVD exclusively distributed by Alfred Publishing Co.

Orange County Workshop: Sun.May 31, 2009, SING with the EH Vocal Power Method
Los Angeles Workshop: Sun. Jan. 7, 2007,   - "Discovering Vocal Power"

Ariel Hyatt

Ariel is the founder of Ariel Publicity and Cyber PR, a New York based digital firm that connects artists to blogs, podcasts, internet radio stations and social media sites.  Over the past 12 years, her firm has represented over 1400 musicians of all genres.  She has written dozens of articles on how to navigate the “new” music business and her book: Music Success in Nine Weeks is available at Amazon. She is a contributing blogger to New Music Ideas, and Music Think Tank, and she has spoken at countless music conferences over the years including SXSW, FMC, ECMAs & OCFF (Canada), A2A (Amsterdam),CMJ, BMI Music Panel Series, and NARAS.

Seth Jackson

(Nashville Songwriters’ Association International (NSAI) Regional Workshop Coordinator for the Los Angeles/Pasadena area). Seth Jackson - Songwriter Seth Jackson wrote his first song in 1983, while he was studying for his MBA degree at the Wharton School. The second song he ever wrote, called "The Atomic Bop", received airplay on WAAF-FM in the Boston area. The song caught the ear of the local music press, prompting The Beat Magazine to write, "Be on the Seth Jackson alert..." Several years later, Seth left the corporate world to study at the Grove School of Music in Los Angeles, where he earned a diploma in Songwriting. An ASCAP member, Seth is NSAI Regional Workshop Coordinator for the Los Angeles/Pasadena area. While he has primarily focused on honing the craft of country music, he also likes to write rock, pop, blues, and novelty songs. Seth promotes his catalog through certain Nashville publishers and also through his own publishing company, Row Town Music.

Orange County Workshop: Sunday, June 29, 2008 - Topic: Songwriting from Los Angeles to Nashville

  Leah Jones

Leah Jones is the founder of Natiiv Arts & Media where she is a social media coach for artists, writers and musicians. Additionally she works with small organizations looking to train their staff on using social media for clients or in the workplace. At Natiiv, Leah focuses on teaching individuals and groups the skills they need to be successful at online marketing and personal branding. She believes it is up to the artist, and not the label, to build relationships and manage their online persona. Prior to launching Natiiv Arts & Media in January of 2009, Leah worked at Edelman PR as the Digital-Culture Evangelist. She served on the Strategic Services team and guided research on behalf of brands to understand what is being said online and developed digital strategy based on the findings. Previously, she was the Conversation Analyst in the me2revolutionundefinedfocusing on research and internal communications. Over the last 2.5 years, she focused on global internal communications and trying to help each Edelman employee become more digitally savvy. With a degree in Chemistry from Millikin University, Leah shows that you don’t have to study communications to learn how to use social media.  www.natiiv.com

Steven Kalas

Steven Kalas and his band, PaperCymbal play everything from driving pop-rock to tasty, acoustic folk guaranteed to hammer you with melody and take you apart with sheer poetry. Steven writes lyrics that are a gaping mirror into the human experience---extraordinary images of ordinary life.You'll hear songs that are acoustic, folk laced pop, unique and eclectic; a combination of folk-rock and pop; a voice that's been compared with Cat Stevens and a style that morphs The Beatles, Jim Croce, James Taylor, Crosby Stills Nash, Paul Simon, Matchbox 20, Maroon 5, Rod Stewart and well...Steven Kalas. Steven is a therapist, Pastoral counselor, freelance writer, songwriter, stand-up comedian, and former Episcopal priest.  He travels nationally as a professional public speaker to youth, colleges and adult audiences.  His words are at once warm, entertaining, and challenging.  Steven will make you laugh and think  He also writes the bi-weekly column Human Matters  for the Las Vegas Review Journal, and syndicated to other newspapers across the United States. www.StevenKalas.com
Las Vegas Workshop  - Mon September 22, 2008   

Shanti Kana

In the time I have spent in Austin I have managed, booked, promoted, published, planned, and organized many different local musicians and bands. In August of 2006 all the hard work finally paid off when I was able to dive whole-heartedly into the world of self-employment. Please feel free to check out my website or myspace page to find out more information about myself and my company!

Fiona Kernaghan Fiona has written 11 #1 songs in her homeland of Australia, had over 100 cuts worldwide in genres as diverse as pop, rock, adult contemporary, country and adult alternative and won numerous awards including Apra Country Song Of The Year. Fiona has been immersed in the music industry since birth. She grew up on tour with her dad’s traveling music show and got her start writing songs for her big sister, Tania. At 18, she co wrote her sister’s first # 1 single. Soon after Fiona landed a publishing contract with Warner Chappell Music and also signed a record deal of her own with ABC/EMI. In recording her own material Fiona took a decidedly different musical direction to her country singing family –drawing on her own broad mix of influences including Tom Petty, Bonnie Raitt and Peter Gabriel. The record earned her a faithful following and a finalist award for“Best New Australian Talent” at the 1996 Australian Recording Industry Awards. However, rather than cut a second record in Sydney in the late 90's, Fiona moved to the U.S and became a staff songwriter for Warner Chappell Music in Nashville. Her first cut in the U.S debuted in the Billboard Hot 100 on Mindy McReady's 'I'm Not So Tough' album. Whilst in Nashville, as fate would have it, Fiona shared a house with Keith Urban's band mates and learned a lot from the then burgeoning star's ascent to international fame. She immersed herself in her collaborative work with hit producers and co writing partners including Marv Green (“Amazed”) and Andrew Farriss of INXS as well as becoming an in demand demo vocalist. Determined to keep growing creatively Fiona also lived in New York for a while, fueling up on all “The Big Apple” has to offer. Then in 2002 Fiona finally put down roots in Los Angeles - a perfect setting for her irreverent and eclectic style. She now runs her own music publishing company and works as part of a writer/producer team with her husband, Daniel Kresco. (Dan's credits include work with Michael Jackson, Lee Ann Womack, Reba McEntire, Barenaked Ladies, Leann Rimes and J-Lo.) Fiona's long awaited follow up to her ARIA nominated debut is the gutsy and autobiographical, “Shadow Wine and Truth Lilies”. Recorded at home with Dan the new record illustrates Fiona's creative evolution and amazing journey as an artist and writer.  Fiona has returned to performing live with renewed zeal and says, “I’m giving myself permission to sing about my own life in a completely candid way and really making the most of the total creative freedom I have now...' Get gig info, the latest news and hear samples of her work at www.fionakernaghan.com                                              Los Angeles, CA Workshop  - Sun -December 21, 2008  -  Laura Kessler As a Music Director, Vocal and Entertainment Coach, composer and performer, Laura Kessler’s life and career path have consistently blended creativity with business. With a Master of Music degree from New York University and a B.A. in Communication, Laura’s ability to relate to people on both sides of the entertainment business has brought her unique success in New York, Chicago, London and Europe. Since 2003, Laura has been a Music Director and adjunct faculty member for the Second City Training Center in Chicago and has taught Music Improv and Comedic songwriting to students at the Second City Conservatory and Columbia College. She has music-directed numerous theatrical productions and has coached musicians, actors and business executives on music, vocal and career issues. Website. Chicago Workshop  – SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2010  "The Artist as Entrepreneur"

Roxanne Kiely and Stephen Kiely

About Roxanne: Songwriter and dynamic performer, Roxanne is co-founder and runs the Australian office of Songsalive! Her experience in the industry is extensive, via her own talent, and her ability to foster the talent of others. As vocal coach, who's former students now count among Australia's well known TV and recording artists, Roxanne continues to write, develop, perform and inspire others to do their best. She also performs with the guy pictured below in CoverMe. Roxanne is also a well-respected vocal coach.   About Stephen: Although Stephen has made a career in the Australian music industry as a writer, performer, producer and arranger, and his mp3.com site recently broke through 100,000 downloads, he was bitten by the website design bug and founded Corner 41 in 1996. Stephen hosts the Songsalive! Sydney Workshops on a monthly basis. Recently, he married Songsalive! co-founder and girl of his dreams, Roxanne. They write for themselves and other artists, and perform together under the name CoverMe. Roxanne and Kiely will kick off the first Byron Bay Songsalive! Workshop with coordinator Jo Young.

Dan Kimpel 

Acknowledged as one of the American media's foremost authorities on popular music and songwriters, Dan Kimpel contributes to a dizzying variety of print and electronic mediums: interactive CD's, magazines, web sites, podcasts, documentary films, videos and new media. His notable interviews include conversations with Leonard Cohen, Holland-Dozier-Holland, Green Day, Metallica, Fergie, Elvis Costello, Jackson Browne, and Dr. Maya Angelou. Beginning in the summer of 2008, passengers worldwide on Delta Airlines will hear Dan's interviews with recording artists and songwriters on Delta On Air, the airline's inflight audio programming. Dan's newest book, Electrify My Soul: Songwriters and the Spiritual Source featuring interviews with Melissa Etheridge, Paul Williams and many others, explores the axis of spirituality and creativity specific to songwriters. Visit Dan online at: www.dankimpel.com

Greg Knowles

Greg Knowles has been a record producer in Los Angeles and New York for the past 24 years.  He holds a doctorate in music and is on the music faculty of The Juilliard School, where he teaches theory & harmony, along with classes on the music business and recording.  Very active with the Recording Academy (Grammy Awards), he spent 8 years on the Board of Governors, 6 years on the Board of Trustees, and 3 terms as Los Angeles President. 

Toni Koch

Toni Koch aka TK Promotions / Pitch-A-Song is a lifelong songwriter/artist who became a promotional music pioneer in guerrilla marketing and display techniques in retail record stores. Toni worked on projects with major record labels (CBS/Columbia/Epic Records, Warner Bros., MCA, RCA) to break out artists including Sarah MacLachlan, R.E.M., Tom Petty, K.D. Lang, Bonnie Raitt, Melissa Etheridge and The Eurythmics.Toni is creator of Pitch-A-Song, a vehicle for placement of all genres. TK Promo songwriter events occur monthly at The Talking Stick in Venice, CA.  She currently serves as Media Relations for COSMO, the Coalition of Songwriters & Music Organizations.                         myspace.com/pitchasong

Las Vegas Workshop  – MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2010  
TOPIC: "Increasing Fan Base and Revenue Streams Through Specific Promotion of Your Music" Speakers: Rob Case and Toni Koch - Get tips on how to create relationships with publishers and industry pros with the power to license, purchase and promote your music.

Alan Kovin

Alan will share his techniques of writing and producing songs that have melodic hooks. Utilizing the Piano as his main composing instrument, we  will explore the use of chord progressions that challenge the commonly used conventions of minimalism and delve into patterns similarly utilized by  such greats as Steely Dan, Bacharach, Billy Joel, Paul Simon and the like. www.zonamusic.com

Dan Kuypers

As Catalog Director and Music Supervisor at Music Dealers (www.musicdealers.com) Dan Kuypers is thoroughly knowledgeable about all the music in the Music Dealers library. He is responsible for getting the agencies and supervisors the music they want and negotiating licenses. Dan brings a wealth of experience from his 8 years as General Manager of EV Productions, one of Chicago's most respected indie hip-hop labels (40 releases), music distribution services and recording studios.

Chicago Workshop - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2010, TOPIC: "Music Supervision and Licensing: How to Get Your Music Placed in TV, Film, Advertising and Videogames"

Layne Lauritzen

Layne a very experienced Music CPA in Austin, and has worked with many notable musicians. He will be talking about music as a business, management, and the mistakes frequently made when filing taxes as a musician. Layne Lauritzen has been a Certified Public Accountant since 1980. He started his own firm in Austin, Texas in 1985 and began to develop a concentration in the music industry. Currently, over half of his client base consists of music and other entertainment-related clients.

Joanne Ledesma

Joanne Ledesma is a music industry insider and entrepenuer who works in multiple aspects of the business.  She is the host and producer of the groundbreaking radio show "Music Biz Radio" which covers multiple aspects of the business in multiple genres. 

Steven Leavitt

Producer Steven Leavitt has worked with respected indie artists such as Chris Opperman, Amy Clarke, Marina V, and The Venus Iluminato (who's 7 song production attracted interest from Warner Brothers and Rhino Records). His life in music began at a young age and has spanned many genres: Folk, Rock, Orchestral, Electronic, and Pop. Steve is also co-founder of the “Don’t Call Us Tori” concert series with Shannon Hurley. Steve is currently producing the full-length album "Time and Space" with Lobate Scarp, a Los Angeles-based progressive rock act reminiscent of Genesis and Yes. More at www.stevenleavitt.com.

Alex Legg

Music festivals across Australia have showcased Alex along side Martin Pearson in their new band The MP3s, however this new tour features his warm Americana songs bursting with biting wit and political comment to promote his new album "Healesville". "When I first heard Alex Legg, I was surprised to only see one musician on stage.  His Guitar techneque blends percussion bass and harmony with out ever descending into pointless showboating, and when coupled with this thoughtful songwriting and sharp lyrics, makes for a pretty compelling show.  I am a Fan" (Bassplayer-extraordinaire, Steve Lawson - Bass Guitar Magazine).  Alex has 4 songs in the Australian top 10 'One Sweet Day', 'This Christmas Tale', 'One Day Soon', and 'Heaven Help Me'.

Bob Leggett

Bob Leggett has been heavily involved with the music business for most of this decade. Bob has been a music fan and support since childhood, and got his start working with one of Orange County's most prolific independent musicians, Kerry Getz. Because of his work with Kerry, Bob began writing for Live Magazine, which subsequently led to the Orange County Music Awards. This caused Bernard Baur of Music Connection Magazine to take notice, and Bob spent the better part of four years with Music Connection, compiling more than 150 reviews. He has since started his own music competition, the So Cal Music Awards, which will start its fourth year in October, and his own company, Shout it Out Promotions (www.myspace.com/shoutitoutpromo), which works with independent musicians, providing management, promotional and booking services. Bob is also the LA Community Coordinator for Songsalive! and serves as the Songsalive!representative to COSMO.

Mary Lemanski

Mary Lemanski is a talented and eclectic singer, songwriter, and musician, who has also worked in many facets of the music industry, including promotion, radio, staging and live sound production, recording, and remix production. After high school, Mary earned a degree in Music and Business Administration with a concentration in Musical Composition and an emphasis in piano and voice from Millikin University. In 1999, Mary completed studies in audio engineering at the Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences. During that summer, she interned at BMG Entertainment and Epitaph Records in Los Angeles. In 2003, Mary graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master of Business Administration in e-Business. In 2004, Mary placed runner-up in the Song of the Year Contest, had a Top 10 Hit on Broadjam.com's New Wave charts, and several top 10 hits on Cornerband.com's Arizona local music charts. In 2005, she was chosen to showcase at Earth Mother Mind Jam in Tempe, AZ, the Putt Putt Pub Crawl in St. Louis, MO, and the Millennium Music Conference in Harrisburg, PA. Ms. Lemanski has written columns for GoGirlsMusic.com and LooseyLucy's Headquarters, and has done songwriting, marketing, and image consultation for many record labels and individual artists. She has opened for acts such as Marky Ramone & the Speed Kings, D.I., and Val Emmich. In May 2006, Mary's song, "A Better Place," received honorable mention in the R&B/Hip-Hop category of the Song of the Year Contest.  Mary has also worked for Clear Channel Radio, Razormaid.com, and Rhino Staging, and she is currently teaching piano lessons and working on new material for an upcoming release.

Chicago Workshop - Saturday September 26 - TOPIC: Business Planning for Songwriters.
Previous: May 23, 2009

Jerry Lembo

Jerry is President of the Jerry Lembo Entertainment Group (J.L.E.G.).* As a music business and media consultant, he assists clients in developing strategic marketing and promotion plans.* Jerry's award winning radio promotion career as both a label rep (Columbia 1986-1997, Chrysalis 1984-1986) and as an entrepreneur have earned him multi-platinum plaques from notes artists including Mariah Carey, Billy Joel, Michael Bolton, Kenny Loggins, Melissa Etheridge, Maroon 5, Norah Jones, and many more.* Jerry especially enjoys the process of artist development and provides career counseling to many independent artists.* Ben Green, Lucinda, Jefferson Thomas, Laura Bradley, Russ Bonagura, and Byron Zanos are just a few of the artists who have benefited from J.L.E.G.'s expertise.* You can review J.L.E.G.'s complete services here.

Steve Levesque

Sindee Levin, Esq.

Sindee Levin is a veteran entertainment attorney whose credentials include business affairs at major film studios, music publishing and mechanical collection and extensive private practice. A noted expert who speaks at conferences, panels and seminars nationwide, she is a well-versed authority on international as well as domestic business models. Levin, a 30+ year Hollywood veteran, has invaluable contacts, education and expertise; she is a powerful advocate for songwriters, composers, recording artists, music publishers and record labels. In the high-stakes world of Hollywood entertainment, Sindee Levin is at the forefront, a well-respected authority that insures her clients will be fairly compensated for their creative efforts.

Carey Lewis

of CLM Management, has been a band manager & booking consulting for over 20 years. Carey has a strong business ability & has worked with more than 15 musical artists leading many of these to record, publishing & endorsement deals. Carey currently works with 4 acts guiding their music careers plus he regularly consults in the areas of booking, direction on live performance, preparing for studio work, getting endorsements and showcasing for Industry Professionals. Contact Carey at (818) 845-3337 or email here.

Jan Linder-Koda

Tess Taylor of Narip says, "Jan Linder Koda is one of the music industry's best kept secrets. Having worked with her for several years now, she continues to impress me with her spot-on evaluations of artists, their performances and their music. She has an uncanny ability to put her finger on exactly what the issue is that keeps good artists from being great, and then helping them to overcome (or remove) whatever roadblocks stand in their way. To work with - and receive constructive, practical feedback from - a person as educated and sophisticated, as Jan is hugely valuable for any artist serious about improving his craft. With solid credentials and practical experience in voice, acting and songwriting, Jan has a rare skill set that is hard to find elsewhere. I have personally seen her take a talented young singer / songwriter - Tim Fagan - and help him polish his performance and craft into something exceptional. After a few sessions with Jan, Tim quickly hit his stride and in short order won the John Mayer Songwriting Contest and went on to tour with the GooGoo Dolls, Life House and now Colbie Caillat. Jan is an expert at fine-tuning and bringing out the best performances in artists and musicians. And it's no surprise that she counts 17 Grammy winners among her clients and collaborators. She has been an especially valuable to our ongoing LAMN Jams at which she is a resident talent judge, and countless artists have improved immeasurably from her feedback and one-on-sessions." Jan has worked with many celebrities and up-coming artists such as DJ Ashba from Motley Crue, David Hasselhoff, and Lou Rawls. Jan can count 17 Grammy winners in her collection of people she has written songs with such as Michael Orland, Music supervisor on American Idol, Narada Michael Walden and Marty Rifkin, pedal steel player for Bruce Springsteen.  Jan has had songs placed in Film and Tv.  LA Workshop:  March 15, 2009

Jennifer Lyneis

For over ten years, Jennifer Lyneis crafted a solid expertise in consumer promotions and marketing for the music and entertainment industry. Her innovative concepts in marketing recording artist through large corporate events attracted attention from record labels, movie studios, and booking agents nation wide. “I believe we can bring new acts to the attention of the buying public with great rewards to the corporate sponsors and all involved.” She has coordinated tour sponsorship for Miller Brewing Company, Heineken, TMobile, and Verizon to name a few as well as various charities benefiting arts and entertainment. “Aligning your artist with a major Brand is a more effective way to bring it to the masses and current ever changing market.” Jennifer’s work promoting acts to national radio has earned her Top 40 Promotion team of the year in 2003, Hot AC Record Promoter of the Year in 2004 and AC record promoter of the year in 2008. She has worked with Grammy award winning and nominated acts such as Jack Johnson, Brian McKnight, Nelly Furtado, and Barry Manilow to name a few as well as numerous up and coming acts. Jennifer Lyneis has become a staple in the music industry as one of the most sought after radio promotion and sponsorship consultants.. As an expert in her field, she is consistently sought after by major and independent labels. Lyneis is an ASCAP member as a songwriter and publisher through her publishing company Mascara Rain. Lyneis is President of Ue3 Promotions a marketing firm specializing in Artist Development, Radio Promotion, Corporate Sponsorship acquisitions and a state of the art division handling Music Licensing for Film, Television and Video. The company’s mission is to provide a haven for developing acts that require old-fashioned artist development, as they build mainstream status.

Matthew Nalett

Matthew Nalett is 32 years old and lives in Chicago, and he has worked in the music industry since he was 21, working for a major nightclub in Houston, Texas. After moving to Chicago in 2003, he started his own website to promote independent & unsigned musicians and bands. Chicago Music Promotions (http://www.chicagomusicpromotions.com/) has helped hundreds of artists, bands, djs and labels with online marketing and promotions in the local Chicago metro region as well in the midwest.

James McVay

James McVay is an award winning composer/ songwriter/ producer and educator. He has written dozens of songs for movies and TV,  scored over 30 movies, and produced and developed many artists in the L.A. area. In this workshop, James will do a hands on assessment of your song during the critiques portion of the workshop and take you to the next level lyrically and musically. He will also bring his book, "8 Simple Patterns to Total Fingerpicking", (the definitive book on fingerpicking and developing a strong right hand technique), to offer for a special discounted workshop price to those attending. Come and get invigorated by James' passion for songwriting and boost your lyrical and musical chops. Learn more about James McVay and his world of music here.

Clair Marlo

Clair Marlo is a award winning songwriter, composer, record producer and recording artist.  In one of those roles, Clair has been consistently playing on the radio, television and film for 20 years. Clair got her first song published by Leeds Levy at MCA Music when she was 16 years old and a college freshman studying at the Aaron Copeland School of Music.  She produced her first record at 19 years old, and it got on the radio.  That was before she got her degree from Berklee College of Music in Composiion and Audio Engineering, and before she got named one of the Top Two Female Producers by Music Connection Magazine. When Clair Marlo first came to Los Angeles, her goal was to write 100 songs.  Since then, she hasn’t stopped to count.   Clair Marlo has recorded and written with some of the most recognized names in the music world in her 20 year career and is coming close to having published 1000 pieces of music currently being played around the world.   You can hear her music on TV, Film, CD, or on commercials.  She’s written themes and score for TV shows in the US, England, Italy, Japan, and Australia.   In addition to composing for Film and Television, Clair is a recording artist with 10 albums out and  her solo CD “Let it Go” was named one of the All Time Top 50 CDs to own by POP Magazine in Europe. Clair has been in demand as a vocalist as well, having been a featured vocalist and co-writer of the song “Sviraj/Lullaby” on Aria II (#11 best selling New Age on Billboard), and having recently sung on Neil Young’s “Living with War” CD.  Most especially, Clair has made a name for herself among audiophiles around the world.  Her recordings have been critically acclaimed for their excellent audio quality and her productions are frequently used to demonstrate great sound quality.    Los Angeles, CA Workshop  - Sun October 19, 2008       

  

Steven Memel

Steven Memel is an internationally acclaimed vocal technique and performance coach. His clients have won Grammies, Emmys, and Tony Awards and have been nominated for Academy Awards and Golden Globes. His clients have also recorded on Sony, BMG, Jive, Epic, J Records, DreamWorks, A&M, Atlantic, Warner Bros. and more.  Steven has also lectured and taught at various conferences and schools, including TAXI Road Rally, Independent Music Conference - Philadelphia, Nashville Music Conference, Bermuda Songwriters Association, West Coast Songwriters Conference, Songsalive!, Musician’s Institute, UCLA, USC and numerous international programs. He also is currently teaching the Master's Class at the Hollywood Pop Academy where he develops new, young talented pop artists. In addition, he has coached actors for their roles in film and television, public speakers and worked on presentation skills for business professionals.

G. F. Mlely

G. F. Mlely's current project has been the musical, VENICE (book, music, lyrics, dialogue written in their entirety by Mlely) under workshop consideration with Center Theatre Group (Mark Taper Forum, Ahmanson and Kirk Douglas Theaters). Besides his songwriting, Mlely is acclaimed internationally for his recordings and live performing as a featured pianist and composer. His songs have been produced and recorded by such as Freddie Hubbard, George Harrison, The Cunninghams, the latter on a Grammy-Nominated album.

Gilli Moon

Originally from Australia, Gilli Moon is a singer, songwriter, recording artist, pianist, actor, producer, author, painter, motivator, entrepreneur, visionary and empowering community builder. Her restless creativity and rebellious nature continually urge the artist to push the envelope in the studio, on stage and with whatever she touches. She has toured the world as an artist, released and produced several music albums, placed songs in films and tv shows, and has won copious songwriting awards. Gilli runs own record and publishing company, Warrior Girl Music, and is president of the largest international non-profit songwriters organization, Songsalive! Her first book, I AM A Professional Artist is her first book,is based on her experiences in the music and general arts businesses as an artist and entrepreneur, and she has just wrapped up her second book "Just Get Out There". Gilli currently lives in Southern California. www.warriorgirlmusic.com www.gillimoon.com

Matthew Moran

Matthew Moran is a songwriter, author, and national speaker. His articles on business, professional development, and social media have been published in numerous online and print publications. He performs at house concerts, coffeehouses, wine bars, and other intimate venues.  Matthew also speaks to professional organizations and songwriters on how to use technology strategically for promotion and efficiency. He lives in Southern California.

Las Vegas Workshop, Monday, January 18, 2010

                                                  

Simon Morel

Expect nothing less than sweet British guitar based indie-pop from the second LP from Australian based, but British born singer-songwriter Simon Morel. Simon Morel has a music career that stretches over the last 15 years, having played the UK university circuit in a variety of bands from a mid 90's pop combo to a 12 piece funk orchestra.  Simon’s second record, intelligently dubbed ‘Record #2’ is a guitar led Brit-rock inspired record- think everything from Teenage Fanclub to UK Squeeze- where Morel has channeled 60’s PowerPop and combined it with story based songwriting. Produced by Michael Carpenter ‘Record #2’ is available in stores throughout Australia via MGM distribution. About Record #2, NotLame.com says "[Morel is] An emerging, important new arrival on the power pop scene and the pay-off is big here on "Record #2".  Hot4s Magazine add “expect to be gifted with some of the best hooks and melodies around…superb”.  His debut CD “Songs from the City” also drew praise, touted as “a pretty perfect debut” by lunaKafe.com and “a collection of eleven superbly produced and played pure pop gems” by Malcolm Carter of UK Music Magazine PennyBlackMusic.   A regular of the Sydney indie pop live scene, Simon has played at various Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Newcastle venues including The Annandale, The Basement, The Sandringham, The Vanguard, The Hopetoun and The Excelsior. In addition to the regular live Sydney shows, Simon toured Japan, France, Germany, the UK and Spain in 2005 in support of his debut release. Alongside his live performances, Simon has been featured as a live studio guest on ‘Arvos’ on FBi 94.5FM, ‘AcousticA’ on 2SER 107.3FM and has had airplay on over 40 stations across Australia.Sydney Chapter:  May 5, 2009

Luis Oliart 

Southern California native Luis Oliart's talent as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter has been described as "simply magical… totally captivating… compelling." His sound blends the influences of funk, rock, blues, reggae and Latin, producing music that is fresh and full of energy. Luis Oliart expresses his love and belief in the healing power of music by performing for chronic and terminally ill children through Art of Elysium, a non-profit organization that encourages working actors, artists and musicians to dedicate their time and talent to children who are battling serious medical conditions. Oliart also runs a thriving private teaching practice for students ranging from three to sixty years old and works with the LA Unified School District to teach schoolteachers music theory skills to use in their classrooms.

Deedee O'Malley
This Award winning Singer/Songwriter/Producer has opened for Glen Campbell,  Chris Cagle, Stephen Bishop, Al Stewart, Ambrosia and shared the stage with LeAnn Rimes, Willie Nelson and Kenny Rogers just to name a few! Deedee O’Malley has taught over 5000 people the art of songwriting.  She is one of the most respected instructors today, having authored the popular manual, “10 Easy Steps to Writing a Song”.  The only songwriting manual in the world where the reader literally finishes three songs before reading the book!   A typical O’Malley Songwriting workshop gives everyone attending a fine grasp on creating intelligent lyrics that can be married to a great melody. This gives her students immediate hands on "doingness" into the world of songwriting and they are never the same! 

Los Angeles Workshop  – SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2010                                                                                      TOPIC: ”How to Obliterate Writer’s Block Forever!”
No more waiting for the divine inspiration from above to hit you for that next great idea.  This seminar will give you a whole new problem.  How are you going to make the time to write all your songs??!

Bill Pere

There are three primary reasons why songs hit home with their audience. These can make the difference between having that receptive group be 30% of the people who hear the songs, versus 90% of the listeners. Bill explains these simple but powerful techniques for insuring that your songs have the broadest appeal. Friendly, warm and generous, Bill Pere, shares his expertise with songwriters interested in building their audience as well as learning techniques for improving your songwiting, no matter what your style or step on the ladder of your artist's journey. Bill Pere, President of the Connecticut Songwriters Association will be presenting a workshop on targeted songwriting. 

Pamela Phillips Oland

Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Selena, Frank Sinatra, the Jacksons, Gladys Knight, Nikka Costa, and Reba McIntyre, are among artists who’ve recorded over 450 Pamela Phillips Oland songs. Her recent #1 duet with Philippine Idol winner Sarah Geronimo and Back Street Boys’ Howie Dorough, “I’ll Be There” is her second #1 in a year. Her current charting single is "I Wanna Be Your Baby" by disco artist Henri. Grammy-nominated Oland is author of “The Art of Writing Great Lyrics,” and “The Art of Writing Love Songs” from Allworth Press. Says Pamela: " We songwriters can be, by nature of our task, very narcissistic. We write about ourselves incessantly. We see the world through our own perspective. And as a result, we become repetitive in our ideas. Sometimes that's the only block getting in the way of getting our songs recorded: learning how to speak for the listener.

Los Angeles Workshop  – SUNDAY, APRIL 18, 2010                                                                                        TOPIC: "How Do You Make Your Lyrics Important to the LISTENER?"
Speaker: Pamela Phillips Oland

Noel Ramos 

Noel Ramos has been a DJ, EMCEE, TV show host, Choral Singer, Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Publisher, Web Developer, Consultant, Teacher and a few other things in his life, and now is serving as a Panelist, Mentor and Executive Director for the Independent Music Conference. Well OK, he still does all of the aforementioned stuff too. As the founder of what he calls the "InterMixx InterNetwork," Noel strives to assist independent musicians with a variety of services and resources, and an umbrella effort to tie them all together as a synergistic "internetwork." Noel is also founder of IndieGate.com, the online independent music store 

Paul Ramsey

Paul Ramsey of Perfect Pitch Productions  is a Recording Engineer and Producer in Austin, as well as a musician. Perfect Pitch Productions is an independent recording studio located in the Austin, Texas.  One of the most enticing characteristics of this studio is its all analog approach to music.  There is no digital equipment in the facility.  By using only analog, the artist's music has a much more rich and full and beautiful sound... well, beautiful as long as the band is good :-)  And this is beneficial to all types of music: folk, country, rock, heavy metal... ALL OF IT!  So, long story short, if you're looking for someone to record and engineer or even produce you, Paul Ramsey won't disappoint you.

Ravi 

RAVI, a singer-songwriter and guitarist originally from New York Cityundefinednow residing in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginiaundefinedhas appeared on Letterman, Leno, Saturday Night Live, Today Show, Good Morning America, etc., and has performed at the most prestigious venues including Madison Square Garden, Louisiana Superdome, and a White House Christmas Party. Mercury Records/PolyGram hired him in 1997 to play guitar on tour with three-time Grammy nominee Hanson (the top selling band in the world that year).  Ravi has released two CDs independently and toured extensively for CD, book signings, and product clinics; as well as performing with his band.

Gene Raymond 

Gene Raymond is a Seth Riggs Speech Level Singing Instructor. He has been teaching and studying for nearly thirty years. He has studied with Michael Goodrich, Brett Manning, Tom McKinney, Jeffrey Skousen, and Seth Riggs. Gene's private vocal studio includes singers of classic vocal music, pop music, musical theater, country, rock, and heavy metal. Gene also serves as vocal consultant to CardinalZen Music Group.

Andy Q

Andy is a former member of Icehouse, who had major US and worldwide hits with songs like "Electric Blue" and "Crazy" (co-written by Andy). He has also written songs (including the worldwide #1 hit "You're the Voice"), that have been recorded by artists and producers like Heart, Alan Parsons, London Symphony Orchestra, John Waite, Manfred Mann, David Foster, Herb Alpert and Richard Carpenter. Andy has also co-written with other songwriters, including Chris Thompson (Manfredd Mann's Earth Band), Keith Reid (Procul Harum/"Whiter Shade of Pale") and Grammy-nominated Harriet Schock ("Ain't No Way To Treat A Lady"). You can reach Andy at 323-936-1030, and by email.

Sylvia Rands

Sylvia Rands, our guest speaker for July kept our workshop members and guests enthralled with her enthusiastic style and way of speaking. Sylvia spoke about the variety of classes, workshops, individual voice training and Vocal Healing sessions – and her business, VocalVision and Voiceworks. Her vision is a world in which we use our voices to express our fullest creative, spiritual, earth-loving potential. Sylvia has taught Voice on Drama faculties at VCA, UWS, and was Head of Voice at the Actor's Centre for four years. 

Jaci Rae

Jaci Rae is an award winning singer, critically acclaimed writer, radio show host touted by the media for her brutal honesty and industry guests, and a successful entrepreneur.   Jaci has been hitting it hard in the industry since she was 10!   Jaci's book, "The Ultimate Guide To Music Success" has been a staple in the hands of artists and industry success stories for several years, now in it's 9th edition.  For more information on Jaci, or to view any of her  industry articles that have been published throughout the world, go to her website.  

Debra Russell

Debra Russell combines her two passions-- the world of entertainment with facilitating growth and change in people's lives. As an Artist’s Success Coach and workshop leader, Debra works with creative individuals to help shape their success in their chosen field.  Debra specializes in the performing arts working with musicians and actors, and on the business and production side with producers, engineers, venue operators and executives.  In addition to working with private clients, Debra, a founding partner of Artist’s EDGE, has presented several innovative programs for entertainment industry trade conferences including NAFA, TAXI Road Rally, and West Coast Songwriter’s Conference.  Read full Bio Here   Official Website here.

Daylle Deanna Schwartz

This Special GUEST SPEAKER for our Hollywood Showcase mixer, has appeared on OPRAH and is on a major book tour for her latest: "I Don't Need a Record Deal! (Your Survival Guide for the Indie Music Revolution)". She'll autograph copies for you to purchase. Learn more about her fabulous book here. Dubbed the "Indie Music Guru," Schwartz is one of the few women to reach her respected level in the music business.

Alan Roy Scott

As a professional songwriter for over 25 years, and Patron of Songalive!, Alan Roy Scott's songs have been recorded by Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, Notorious B.I.G., Gloria Estefan, Cyndi Lauper. Patti LaBelle, Neville Bros. Roberta Flack, El DeBarge, Tiffany, Patti Austin, The Spinners, Oak Ridge Boys, Anne Murray, Pointer Sisters, Sheena Easton, and Ray Charles among many. His work also has been featured in Films and TV shows such as "Top Gun", "Coming To America", "Karate Kid III", "Summer School", "Fame", "Fame/LA", "Santa Barbara", "Guiding Light", "Melrose Place", & "Beverly Hills 90210" among others. He was awarded a prestigious Third Century Award by the US Patent & Copyright Board to honor his achievements in the international arena. He served as well on the Board of Directors of the National Academy of Songwriters (NAS) in Hollywood for 4 years. He is also a 20 year voting member of NARAS, the academy that produces and presents the annual "Grammy" Awards.

Randy Sharp

Randy's songs have been recorded by Linda Ronstadt, Emmy Lou Harris, The Dixie Chicks, Restlest Heart, Clay Walker, Blood Sweat and Tears, Marty Robbins, Edgar Winter, Reba McEntire, Big Bird... to name only a few. Many of them hits, a few of them number ones and three of them Grammy winners. As far as his own performances go, David Scarlett of the Country Weekly says: "... he makes it seem effortless. And, most important of all, his performance of his own material confirms the truism that, no matter how many superstars record a song, no one interprets it better than the guy who wrote it." www.randysharp.ws

 Eric Sheinkop
Eric Sheinkop is the Co-Founder and President of Music Dealers (www.musicdealers.com)- a global music licensing solution and the largest global provider of custom music. Eric recently re-located from the Music Dealers Chicago office to run the LA office and focus on TV, Film and Gaming placements. Also, Eric works as a Key Consultant for multiple Leo Burnett Fortune 500 accounts (including Phillip Morris, Kelloggs, McDonalds). Eric also founded Bandit Productions (Critically-acclaimed Chicago artist management and consulting firm). Through Bandit’s Brand Marketing division, Eric successfully conceptualized and executed key branding strategies for company launches such as Fox’s Big Ten Network, Going.com, and SoBe Lifewater.
Chicago Workshop - Saturday, February 13. 2010
TOPIC: "Music Supervision and Licensing: How to Get Your Music Placed in TV, Film, Advertising  and Videogames"

Madalyn Sklar

Franklin Spicer

is the founder of the Los Angeles Songwriter’s Co-Op, a songwriting organization dedicated to helping songwriters improve their songcraft.  He is currently a partner with Alan Roy Scott in the Unisong International Songwriting Contest which is currently in its 11th year.  Franklin continues to write songs with Musion, a songwriting team which includes Alex Del Zoppo, John Allan, and Mony Jackson.  Musion writes Adult Alternative songs for Film and TV placement.  Franklin is a multi-instrumentalist who led the world music group Pegasus Project. 

John Stafford 

John Stafford II, is originally from Danville, Illinois. He is currently appointed at Millikin University teaching music theory, composition, and vocal jazz. His music has been performed throughout North America and Europe. He has earned commissions from the Instituto Cultural Dominico-Americano in the Dominican Republic, the New York Treble Singers, the Prairieland Voices Choral Ensemble, and Millikin University. The University of Oregons Waging Peace Through Singing, an international competition for choral music on the theme of peace sponsored by the Carlton Savage Endowment for International Relations and Peace, has recognized his work. He has also received recognition from other organizations such as American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, the Society of Composers Inc. (both national and regional conferences), the National Federation of Music Clubs, the Ohio Federation of Music Clubs, the Sandusky New Music Festival, the North American Music Festival at Lynn University, the Otterbein Festival of Contemporary Music at Otterbein College and Primavera En La Habana 2004 (Spring in Havana 2004) International Electroacoustic Music Festival in Havana, Cuba. Also, he was recently selected as a finalist for the IV Edition of Pierre Schaeffer International Competition of Computer Music in Italy. In addition, such artists as Velvet Brown, Marilyn Shrude, members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the New York New Music Ensemble, the Hradec Kralove Mens Chorus, the Gregg Smith Singers, Chicago A cappella, the New York Treble Singers, the Millikin University Choir, Millikin University Childrens Choir, the Prairieland Voices, the University of Northern Colorado Womens Glee Club, the Anti-Social Music Ensemble (based out of NYC), and the Arkansas State University Faculty Brass Quintet had performed his music. Stafford is or has been a member of the Society of Composers Inc., American Choral Directors Association, American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, Christian Fellowship of Art Music Composers, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. He holds degrees from Millikin University (B.M.) and Bowling Green State University (M.M.) and will begin his DMA in choral conducting at the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign in August 2006. His teachers have included Marilyn Shrude, Elainie Lillios, Burton Beerman, and David Burdick. Staffords music is published through First Step Publishing.    http://www.myspace.com/johnstaffordii   

Andrea Standley

As a kid, Andrea was in constant motion, climbing trees, playing basketball, baseball, football, riding horses, jumping on the trampoline, diving, body surfing…she simply couldn’t get enough.  One day she learned 3 chords on a guitar and found all that energy focused on writing a song which led to Andrea spending 28 years working in the music industry for Warner Bros. Records in Burbank.  Although not "discovered" as a writer (everyone in a record company sings, writes or is in a band), she loved her job and it was her first and only career for over 27 years.  Starting as a kid in the 70’s and continuing to work at the label until 2001, Andrea's experience is rich.  If you were at the labels in the 70’s and 80’s then you know it was a period of perhaps the most creative, explosive, and exciting times in the music business.  Warner Bros. Records was also considered the place to work.  Andrea and her brother were also the first to create and sell Musical Greeting Cards around the world through their MusiCard Company.  A clear vinyl sleeve housed a 45 rpm colored vinyl record in one pocket with a card in the other pocket.  They wrote all the original songs like Birthday, Missing You, Love Is, and so on, and actually did very well – especially in Germany …go figure!  Van Halen used the sleeve design for their “Hot For Teacher” special commercial release.  For the past 10 years, Andrea's  focus has been on songwriting and building her catalog.  She also has created a new and different collaborative online Music Company SONGSINC, a worldwide collaborative songwriter site with benefits.  www.songsinc.com

Vegas Workshop - Monday, October 19th

Steven Weiss-Smith

In 1996, Steven formed the Chicago-based company, Zambuda Productions, Inc.,where he produced, wrote, and scored documentaries, commercials, educational and featurette films.  He relocated to Los Angeles 1999 for a Development Executive position with Stefanie Epstein Productions where he facilitated feature development deals with Touchstone, Columbia, Disney and Fox.  He also helped develop MOW’s and programming for CBS, ABC, USA and Lifetime. 

Shifting gears, he joined Green Dog Films as Head of Feature Distribution where he sold international winning short films to Showtime and Bravo.  Steven was later hired by Warner Bros. Television, working on such shows as Friends, Two and a Half Men, ER, The West Wing, Smallville, Without A Trace, and numerous others.  Today, Steven is President of Shutter Star Pictures, LLC.  In 2008, he produced, co-wrote and music supervised DEAR ME: A BLOGGER’S TALE, recently released on DVD.  Steven is currently writing and producing a small town, sci-fi comedy feature film to be released in spring, 2010.  Additionally, Steven is a Producing partner with Riverview Films LLC, an LA-based production company developing and producing Chicago-centric Television and feature films.  Steven is spearheading the development of two TV pilots, four feature films, and the launch of a new national TV network.   www.DearMetheMovie.com

Chicago Workshop - SATURDAY, August 29th
TOPIC: - Breaking into film/TV, - Fan base, - What Producers & Music supervisors look for in indie music for film--Match the feel of the film?, Rights,Musician's/or rep's attitude, Quality of music, Misconception re: business vs. art

Tim Sweeney

Tim Sweeney's career in the industry spans from his days as an artist himself, to almost every position at a major label to becoming the President of a successful management company to becoming the author of one of the International Best Selling books regarding the music industry today: TIM SWEENEY'S GUIDE TO RELEASING INDEPENDENT RECORDS. Over the last 20 years, he has helped several major labels (Columbia, Epic, MCA, Universal, Warner Bros., Capitol, Mercury, Polygram, Revolution, Hollywood (and their sub-labels), and well known independent labels (Restless, Metal Blade, Enigma, Accretions, etc.) develop the careers of some of their most promising and successful artists of all time.

Doak Turner 

Doak moved to Nashville in October of 2002 after building and coordinating a very successful songwriting workshop in Charlotte, NC for 6 years. He started the Nashville Muse in February of 2003, which is now a weekly newsletter with listings of events for songwriters and music industry people in Nashville, grown to over 10,000 weekly readers.

J.WALKER

J.Walker is an emcee, a published poet, an author, a teacher and most of all, the Rhymecologist. His rhyming ability has won him talent shows and poetry slams throughout Los Angeles. He is the "Resident Poet" for the Fox Sports Radio show "The Loose Canons" on AM570 where he creates "on the spot" sports poetry live on air. Combining his worldly experience, his professional counselor training, his talent for lyrics and his passion to help people, he created Rhymecology - a program where Hip Hop meets 'The Secret'. Rhymecology is designed to give voices to the voiceless, including those he has been counseling for years in the greater Los Angeles area.
www.rhymecology.com

Jay Warsinske

The Founder/CEO of INDIEPOWER.com and as a 35+ year industry veteran, now at the cutting edge of the Indie Revolution, Jay Warsinske has been enabling independent artists access to major promotion, marketing and distribution worldwide for four decades.Jay has helped break such artists as U2, Black Eyed Peas, Jason Mraz, Fugees, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Janet Jackson, Sting / The Police, 2Pac, Madonna, REM, Paramore, The Clash, Metallica, Lauryn Hill, Gloria Estefan, 311 & many more! 

Las Vegas Workshop  – MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2010  
TOPIC: "State of the Music Industry 2010" opportunities indie artists/writers have available to them the 1st year of a new decade!

Doug Welch

Invented out of the already existing pieces of the Internet, MP3 audio files, web sites, weblogs and RSS feeds, Podcasting  opens up a new way of communicating your music to the world. Easy, fast and cheap, you can be podcasting your words, music and commentary to your friends, your fans or the entire world in a few hours. Imagine your own radio station where you pick the playlist, you choose the message and you get to talk directly to those who are most interested in your work. Podcasting allows listeners to have what they want, when they want, where they want it, and you can use that freedom to your advantage.

Geoff Weule

In 1964 Geoff left Australia to embark on a musical career in the UK.  He joined the staff of EMI Records to commence a career in the entertainment industry that has now spanned more that four decades. Geoff set up the world's first HMV retail outlet in the UK.  After returning home to join EMI Australia in 1967 he has been responsible for numerous industry firsts and among those achievements he was the first person in the Australian record industry to hold the position of Director of Marketing at EMI Records. In March 2002 Geoff accepted a part-time lecturing position at the contemporary Music Centre, Nirimba Education Precinct, where he is currently lecturing in Marketing and Music Industry Business Studies. 

Jimi Yamagishi 

With over a quarter century in the industry, Jimi is also the current head of the SongNet, a Pasadena CA. based songwriter's org. As a writer & producer, much of his work can be found all over the world. He's a guest columnist in several publications & is known to network with everything & anyone connected to songwriting. An accomplished guitarist, Jimi builds most of his own instruments, & previously owned one of the more highly respected guitar shops in Hollywood. "A smile & a handshake are your most important assets in any business." When you meet him, you'll know why.

Randy Young

Randy's recording and production skills have earned him a multi-platinum selling CD and several top charting singles. He holds a diploma in composing and arranging from the world renowned Grove School of music. Randy also teaches songwriting workshops and is launching a new website songwritingstrategies.com . He also currently plays in the band Cherry Suede.
Vegas Chapter:  January 19th, 2009

See upcoming speakers here