People Are People

This handy guide provides everything you need to know to go pro, including information about personal managers, music attorneys, business managers and booking agents, record companies, A&R, publishing, songwriting, demo tapes and press kits, self-promotion, and much more. A must for all musicians!

Aspiring musicians often enter the music business with unreal expectations, and are inevitably disappointed. Reality Check is the first book that gives a completely honest look at what success is in today's recording industry and the smart steps a musician can take to get there. Even the most creative people can manage time effectively and make the fullest use of their most important resource: their talents. Reality Check is for everyone who wants to chart a rewarding path through the often confusing jungle of the music industry. March 2003 Josquin des Pres began his career in France in the mid-'70s when he obtained his first record deal with United Artists Records. He has since worked on hundreds of projects with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Des Pres has also authored 14 bestselling bass instruction books and two guitar instruction books. Mark Landsman is a musician, songwriter and entertainment attorney. He was formerly director of West Coast operations for a large New York City-based record label. Both authors live in southern California.

Specifically designed to teach jazz basics to students with 1 or 2 years playing experience, but with no prior experience playing jazz. Great for individual or classroom use. Teaches the basics of swing style in a step-by-step approach using well-known songs. Improvisation is made easy starting with simple 2-measure phrases. Scales and basic theory are introduced in a simple and easy to understand approach. 2 CD's are included with recordings of all exercises and arrangements. Other features: 7 full band arrangements, sample solos, jazz history and people.

For unsigned musicians, it is vital to long-term success to sign a contract with a record label. However, preparing your music, targeting a label, and getting your demo into the hands of someone who will listen is challenging, if you don't know where to start. Getting Signed!, by record industry veteran George Howard, guides you through the maze of today's music industry, and will help you move your demo to the top of the stack. Even if you are not yet ready for a record deal, it will help you assemble a team that will make sure your music gets heard by as many people as possible. The next time an aspiring recording artist comes to us for advice, we'll advise them to read this book first. George Howard really knows what he's talking about. - Chris Franz and Tina Weymouth, members of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club