Cerebro Coming Soon...

Hip-hop artist, Loser X and I will be releasing a hip hop/nerdcore EP called, “Cerebro EP.”  This album is like listening to a comic book.  “Cerebro EP” is dedicated to the Marvel X-Men character Professor X.  This album has everything a nostalgic nerd wants.  We used content from comic based cartoons, anime shows, and even video games.  We plan to release this EP as a free download to see how the public responds.  We plan to promote the EP at comic, video game, and anime conventions around Tampa and Orlando in Florida.  Our target market is heavy at these types of conventions.  We also plan to promote the EP on social websites like Facebook and Twitter.  I believe that it is great to stay in touch with fans online and in person.  I read an article from makeitinmusic.com about lessons on how to connect with fans as an artist.  One way to be proactive with fans is to be approachable.  Using Twitter helps you interact with fans and other professionals in the industry.  Depending on how you use Twitter, people can see you as a professional and a casual person.  Getting to know your fans good because you can get feedback about your music or you can have the fans participate in the decision of the next single to be released.  Another way to connect with the fans is to give away free music or gifts.  Now, people, especially fans, want more “bang” for their money, so you have to give a little extra. For instance, after the release of our EP, we will give codes to receive a digital comic book that follows the EP.  Staying positive about your online presence is a plus towards your fans.  Everyone likes to criticize or give his or her own opinions when it comes to music.  Although it comes with the territory, you have to be positive about other people’s opinions.  Although this EP is a different approach towards hip-hop, it is something new and it will get the respect it deserves.

Phunky Update

It has been a while since I posted a blog entry, so here is some good news on the journey of Philonius.  I am now a producer of Tunnel Vision Records, an LLC that supports independent artists without the use of 360 deals.  In the past couple of months, I have been working with independent artists in Orlando like hip hop artist Niko Is, soul singer Reilly, hip hop artist Kilam, just to name a few.  It has been a great experience to work on music with other artists because usually I work alone and then send my material to the artists.  Even though I work with a label, I am still an independent producer.  This is great because I can still make the music I want and still get paid.

I have also become a member of BMI.  BMI or Broadcast Music, Inc. is a company that collects license fees so the artists or producers can receive royalties.  With BMI, if you are a publisher, you can join for free.  I can only join one property rights organization (PRO) and it lasts for two years.  I have learned that in my business within accounting, I can belong to all three PRO’s but within three separate accounts.  As a producer, some of the artists want me to use samples in songs.  I read on the ASCAP website that they will clear the samples, which saves me time from asking different record labels for licenses.  It costs a bit extra for ASCAP but it will be worth it in the long run.

It has been a leisurely paced journey to success but success does not happen overnight.  I have done so much but to be honest, it is only the beginning.  I am fine with my goals keeping me motivated and my business plan keeping me on edge.