It's OFFICIAL!!! Monétique RELEASES DEBUT EP

What's going on world? BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Monétique has officially released their debut EP entitled Don't Put Me in a Box this past weekend.  It was a momentous occasion for the twin duo (Evette and Evonne Archer) and having their support team in attendance at the album release party definitely elevated their emotions.  They have expressed their deepest gratitudes all throughout Facebook.  Evonne Archer (of Monétique) even posted the below message:

 After 4 months of recording, scheduling photo shoots, meeting with graphic designers, re-recording vocals, etc. the group feels a huge sense of accomplishment.  The fact of the matter is, this EP has been in the works for several years.  Despite certain hindrances, Monétique met up with new producers and finished the album!  This marks the launch of their radio and promo tour.  They are currently setting up their schedule of appearances/performances for the year 2013.  For inquiries and/or bookings please email Eva D. at monetique813@gmail.com.


This 7-track EP tells the story of heartbreak, infidelity, true love, and limitless boundaries.  It is geared to, through their personal experiences, reach and encourage their followers through the many stages of life.  Get a Listen HERE. You can currently purchase an autographed copy of Don't Put Me in a Box at the Paypal link in the top right corner. Check out some pics from their OFFICIAL EP RELEASE PARTY.

**As usual**
Follow on Twitter: @Monetique813
LIKE on Facebook: Monétique 
Subscribe on Youtube: Monarch6407


....until next time!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS...AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!! (IT WILL BE ANNOUNCED RIGHT HERE ON THE BLOG WHEN DON'T PUT ME IN A BOX GOES LIVE ON ITUNES)

UPDATES...UPDATES!!

            For this post, I will discuss preparing for an album release.  This week was the final week of recording in the studio, so the mixing and mastering has been completed.  I’ve read some ideas on what to consider for this release from an article online. The list of things to consider while finalizing this release was the budget and the following:

• New Photography 
• Obtaining Proper Licensing/Copyrights of album 
• Publishing Flyers (spread the word) 
• Email Blast 
• Newspaper Announcement 
• CD Duplication 
• Ordering of Merchandise

So, yesterday we had a photo shoot with Christian Bauer of 12 to 12 Productions to wrap up the end of Monétique’s EP “ Don’t Put Me in a Box” which is set to be released 12-21-12.  This shoot was actually pretty fun.  It was hot, but nevertheless, pretty fun.  So over 40 shots of various positioning, color, outfit changes, and lighting, we think we’ve found the album cover! I also read another article that assisted in some additional marketing tips.

As far as just having received the final master of the 7-track EP, that will be sent off to the Copyright Office tonight and registered via Lady Monarch Productions, Inc with ASCAP.  ASCAP is the Performance Rights Organization that Lady Monarch Productions, Inc is currently a member of.  This will be important because this music will be released everywhere.  It is best that we claim our copyright before it gets published to prevent it from being in jeopardy of being used without a license.

The flyers have been designed by DesignWorks360 and printed.  Now the hard and more time-consuming part will be to distribute ALL 5,000 within the Tampa Bay area.  The email blasts and newspaper announcements all work together for our Marketing Initiatives for this project.  The duplication has to be done within the next couple of days in order to have the actual copies by the Album Release Party on 12/23/12.  As far as the t-shirts, they have been ordered and will be received by this week.  This is very exciting because these shirts will be exclusive to this event! Stay tuned for more news soon.

Sources:

http://www.copyright.gov/

http://musicians.about.com/od/gigsandtouring/ht/How-To-Plan-An-Album-Launch-Party.htm

http://blog.discmakers.com/2010/02/cd-release-tips/

http://cltampa.com/tampa/sunday-funday-featuring-montique-album-listeningrelease-party/Event?oid=3517931

The Digital world is VERY ELABORATE

Search Engine Optimization is truly more technical than I thought.  It merely took me 2 laptops so that I could have several screens open to review the processes of optimizing my websites.  Not only do you have to register each page but add certain elements that may include how your site is being monitored in the future.  For example, the frequency that your website changes, certain parameters, and how many posts your blog may have etc.

I reviewed how to submit a sitemap via BloggerSentral website.  It was exactly what I needed to assist me introducing my website to the digital world even further.  As of now, my website was just words typed on a site.  You could find me, If I provided you with a link first.  But my goal was to be found accidentally!

I researched further and discovered another website, Seomoz.  Entitled “The Beginner’s Guide to SEO”, it was sure to assist me in what I needed to get accomplished.  Divided in Chapters, starting from how Search Engines Operate, to How Usability, Experience, and Content Affect Ratings, and ending with Measuring and Tracking Success.  The Chapter that intrigued me the most was Chapter 7: Growing Popularity and Links.  I post what I feel my readers will benefit from.  So, here is what I can do to assist you.  One important concept from the guide “suggests that the links from sites within a topic-specific community matter more than links from general or off-topic sites (seomoz).  Also there is what is called, TrustRank.  Due to the amounts of spam on the Internet, certain sites rank higher due to their reputability.  Those organizations include Universities, federal websites and/or some non-profit organizations. 

Ultimately, I have a lot to learn and this assignment completely intrigued me.  I want to maximize my online presence.  I’ve added analytics capabilities to my blog, as well as using Google Webmaster tools to upload my sitemap.  All in all, this was an experience that I will have to continue to revisit so that I can become more proficient at SEO!



Photo: lib.berkeley.edu
Sources: http://www.google.com/analytics/, http://www.bloggersentral.com/, and http://www.seomoz.org/.

LMP Self-Publishing: Things to Consider (PART TWO)

          Self-publishing can be a daunting task, especially if you are not well-prepared.  I will continue in this post to elaborate on what I feel should be considered in the process of self-promotion.  Make sure the sound/audio quality of the recording is industry-standard or close!  Again, you want to be taken seriously.  If you can obtain the sound from recording in GarageBand or by investing in a studio that uses Cubase or ProTools, then just get the job done. 

          Research venues for where you would like your music to be played at the local scene.  Do your research, because some venues may look like a cool place to do a show or album-release party, but be totally catered to a genre that doesn’t resemble your sound/music in any way.  You want to attempt to choose venues where music that is similar to what you produce.  Don’t get me wrong, you want to capture a wide audience, but chances are that more people would be willing to buy your album at the end of the night if they already listen to your style of music.  This is very important when you are promoting yourself.  There is never an endless supply of funds, especially when we are fronting the bill.

          What other items will you make available for sale?  Have other ways to bring in money at your shows or on your website.  Some ideas are merchandise (i.e. tour shirts, stickers, key chains), the actual EP/album, or even download cards where the fans can purchase the album online by utilizing their individual code to redeem their music.  Music Duplication companies (i.e. Oasis and Discmakers), ooshirts, zazzle, Empire Promos, Discount Mug$ and Pinnacle Promotions are some companies that can assist with merchandise.

          This next concept may take some time, but I recommend thoroughly establishing your list of contacts through which you can promote your music.  I am still, every day compiling my list.  They will include videographers, photographers, musicians, producers, artists, radio djs (including online radio), and in my case also TV & Film Music Directors.  There is also another way to gather a list of industry contacts that requires a fee.  I, however, haven’t utilized that because I want the most up to date information.  So, by researching and confirming, you will have the most accurate information.  I had a list years ago that was supposed to be updated, and the phone/address of the Industry Executive was not valid.  You have to realize that these publications do expire as insiders may change their information even before the publication is mass produced.  In due time, I hope to make the proper connects through other people as their direct contact.  Everyone knows someone who knows someone.  So, just keep in mind you always want to be in the know, and self-publishing is not about being shy.  Introduce yourself! You never know who you may meet.

LMP-Self-Publishing: Things To Consider (PART ONE)

          When it comes to publishing work, music in this case, many things come into play.  First, making sure that work is registered with the United States Copyright Office is important.  The sites now have it available to register works online (http://www.copyright.gov/forms/) for $35 without having to mail in ($65 fee) either form: Sound Recording (SR), Performing Arts (PA), Visual Arts (VA), Literary Works (TX) or Single Serials (SE).  It is important that all compositions are registered to prevent misuse, defamation of brand, or better yet, anyone else capitalizing financially for their own benefit.  You want to make sure you have exclusive rights unless you license it to another entity based on your own terms.

          Next, I would make sure any logos or taglines are trademarked as well.  The website to Patent and Trademark Office is http://www.uspto.gov/.  Your logo is a part of your brand and clarifies what makes the organization different; it is the logo/tagline.  I would make sure it is trademarked. It is always better to prevent things from happening than to clean up a mess with litigation and court precedings.  If a court case is inevitable, then at least it is registered with the PTO.

         Professionalism is how one conducts himself but also what image is portrayed.  You want to make sure you try to invest in a professional photo shoot that can capture at least one or two solid band photos.  These photos can be used as album covers later, on flyers, on websites, or anytime the press may want to refer to the band.  The photos make you appear legitimate and you will be taken more seriously if you do.  Decide which avenues to pursue in regards to publishing, and determine what ways they can fit within the budget.  Are you going to print flyers and distribute them by hand?  Are you creating a street team to help you promote?  Will you be using social media to post events on Band Music pages, sending email blasts, creating official press releases, sending the radio stations Public Service Announcements (PSAs) or investing in a promotion company such as Capacity Productions or  Reverbnation.  Other companies also offer promotional services such as GoogleAds and Facebook marketing.

Social Media and Lawsuits; Song Rights Battle; Marketing Strategies

The first podcast that I reviewed concerned Social Media and Lawsuits.  In this podcast, we discover the growing increase of social media within the courts system and legal filings.  In this podcast, they discussed employment and legal occurrences.  What was very interesting is that it has been used as evidence for both civil and criminal cases.  National Law Journal said that Facebook has been a leader or “primary evidence source” for may court cases in the recent months. My thoughts on this podcast and the topic in general is that social media can prove so much, in terms of the dates of postings, images as proof or validity, or even can show a connect between parties by reviewing the message history.  All information pretty much is either saved or can likely be recovered once it is needed.  A point that was brought up was that lawyers have advised their clients to not delete particular items on Facebook or Twitter because of the potential weight that it can possess in the courtroom.  The courts have considered social media to, in some cases, be a viable source.

Ambrogi, B. and Williams, C.  Lawyer2Lawyer-Social Media and Lawsuits (July 12, 2012).  LegalTalkMedia.com. Retrieved on October 21, 2012 from  http://legaltalkmedia.com/LTN/C2C/C2C_071112_SocialMediaLitigation.mp3

The second podcast that I listened to was “The New Legal Battle over Song Rights”.  I was immediately interested in this based on the title.  Within the Music Industry there was a U.S. Copyright Revision in the 70s (1976 Copyright Act).  This law “gave many musicians and songwriters termination rights which gave them the rights to reclaim ownership of their recordings after 35 years so long as they apply for ownership at least 2 years in advance of the 35 year timeline.”  This means many hits that were written almost 35 years ago could now technically be up for grabs by the artist who can apply to become owner.  Sales of catalogue records amount to be a bulk of what provides profits to current record label or music publishers.  Quite often, artists initially sign a contract granting rights to the label and music publisher.  After 35 years they can apply to terminate their contract and retrieve ownership.  This does not include ‘work for hire’ agreements.  ‘Work for hire’ means a stipend was paid or payment negotiated for a collective works agreement. If they were work for hire, then the artist is not able to regain copyrights.  I think it is great that an artist can have the possibility to retain copyrights after this period of time.  Ultimately, I believe it won’t be a quick and easy retrieval because the record label does not want to lose the opportunity to make money.  They don’t want to lose rights, especially from big name stars. 

Williams, C. Lawyer2Lawyer-The New Legal Battle over Song Rights (September 1, 2011).  LegalTalkNetwork.com.   Retrieved on October 21, 2012 from http://legaltalkmedia.com/LTN/C2C/C2C_083111_Copyrights.mp3

Legal Marketing is discussed and the best marketing strategies for lawyers.  One strategy is launching a powerful website that is built to engage and increase clientele.  Many people look online for what they need.  So a strong web presence is key.  Lawyers should prove they are an “expert in their field..answer legal issues in their areas…”  A lawyer has to prove they can be reliable and be held accountable.  Another way is using video marketing.  A great way to break down the communication barriers or intimidation factors is to make a lawyer appear approachable.  Lawyers can do webinars or just upload video updates that not only showcase his/her skill and expertise, but also his/her personality.  Ideally, you want people to want to work with you.  This was an insightful podcast.  I completely agree with this because I often times are hesitant to approach lawyers regarding anything.  This can really ease my communication with them.

Ambrogi, B. and Williams, C. Lawyer2Lawyer-Legal Marketing: Stateside and Worldwide (March 11, 2011). LegalTalkNetwork.com.  Retrieved on October 21, 2012 from http://legaltalkmedia.com/LTN/C2C/C2C_031011_InternationalMarketing.mp3

My Review of 3 Legal-Focused Podcasts!

          The first podcast was regarding the most recent changes in Trademarks and Copyrights laws within the Brazilian market. From this podcast, I've gained a lot of information concerning Intellectual Property.  Two interviewees were husband and wife, Walter and Christina Palmer.  The upcoming developments first mentioned were PTO restructuring.  They are now focusing on eliminating what is not patentable from the beginning.  This will reduce the regular 8-9 years down to a projected 4 years time.  It was also mentioned that it will create new jobs and positions for the overall unemployed Brazilian market.  The greater majority of open positions would be allocated to the Patents, and then shortly followed by the Trademark departments.  The next upcoming developments were mentioned concerning the Olympic Act.  As some of you may know, Brazil has won the bid for the upcoming Olympic games that takes place in 2016.  The Olympic Act prohibits the use of certain phrases, use of the name or brands affiliated with Brazil.  This was in effort to prevent Ambush Marketing.  Ambush marketing is when many businesses may try to capitalize on the fact that The Olympics in Brazil is going to be such a global commodity.  Everyone will want anything to do with possibly being found as a result of the Olympics 2016.  Not to mention, the cost of gaining an advertisement spot during the 2016 Olympics will be astronomically high.  This podcast also revealed the new modifications Brazil is trying to incorporate in regards to copyright law.  The New Fair Use "permit us of copy written material for education" and also permits photocopying if used for educational purposes.  This does spark controversy and has not been accepted by a majority of parties.  It has not yet been passed.  All in all, I really enjoyed this post.  Lady Monarch Productions, Inc. is going to eventually go global.  http://www.lexisnexis.com/community/downloadandsupportcenter/media/p/51.aspx.

          In another podcast, I actually learned about the many things that are patentable.  This particular podcast reflects finding new cuts of meat, as Tony Mata has done.  Other things that ironically are patented is cutting a hotdog and frying it.  The thing to remember is that the patent cannot be obvious, but this podcast revealed many odd patents, including the chicken wing patents.  There are 8 million patents since 1998, according to NPR.org.  Everyday people become more and more original and creative.  This is also an interesting concept. I've learned that my brand should be so original that no one can replicate it.
Episode 399: Can You Patent A steak? August 31, 2012. Npr.org. Retrieved on October 7, 2012 from
http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/2012/08/31/160391850/episode-399-can-you-patent-a-steak.

          In this last podcast, Matt Krieger is interviewed to discuss the recent changes to Patent Law and what is affected.  President Obama passed the AIA into law last September.  AIA, the America Invents Act, has now began launching some instrumental..Inner party re-examination is now appearing to be more efficient.  The new patent law provides that inner party reviews are constructed in front of Patent Law judges as opposed to Patent Law examiners.  The judges are more apt to challenge the patents and make sure that the creation is purely and objectively created.  It was very informative.  Make sure to gather further information from the podcast.
Key Changes to Patent Law. September 19, 2012. LegalTalkNetwork: Lawyer 2 Lawyer.  Retrieved on October 7, 2012 from http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/lawyer-2-lawyer/.

Recent Controversy!

          Hello people! I have read some very controversial things in the media recently and feel as though I should shed some light on a few of them.  In browsing, I ran across Lady Gaga.  She recently had a show in London, as a part of her current tour, in which she decided to pay homage to a couple of artist that had passed.  The first one, thus making this controversial, was her tribute to the late Princess Diana.  She said in the article that if she had ever gotten a chance to perform in London, that she would perform a dedication song in remembrance of Princess Diana.  According to WENN Entertainment News Wire Service, Lady Gaga said, “Since I was a very young girl, the people’s Princess was the most important person in me and my mother’s life.  I swore if I ever had an audience like this in London I would take a moment to appreciate her.  This song is called Princess Di-D-I-E..Let’s take a moment to appreciate her presence and what she means.”  She then later goes on to tribute the late Amy Winehouse, who passed away in 2011.  Personally, I can’t pay a tribute while using a “pun” or play on words.  Yes, Princess Diana passed away in 1997, but I can’t believe Gaga, tribute or not, would use such a connotation.

            Another item of controversy will be the release of Sinner’s Creed, an upcoming memoir told from the eyes of the lead singer from the band, Creed.  Apparently, this is to be a “tell-all” book which is set to be published later this fall.  The controversy arises from the amount of information being released to the public.  PR Newswire states “’The book describes my childhood, my internal battle with drugs and depression and how I lost control of my life,’ says Scott Stapp”.  This book is to unleash unpublished accounts of his battles and how he became sober.  It is this reason why he refuses one-on-one interviews.  I think this book is controversial but I am also anticipating its release.  I do think it can be a coping method and also an insight into how this industry can impact other aspiring artists.  This book is set to be released this Tuesday, October 2, 2012 via Tyndale Publishing.  Visit http://www.sinnerscreed.com if looking to purchase either the hard copy or e-book version.

            The last controversial subject is that of what celebrities do to gain attention.  “They often deliberately initiate a controversy to boost their popularity.  It is also a fairly standard issue for any upcoming movie to be trapped in a controversy” (Mens XP).  Celebrities often do “feel good” campaigns where they contribute to humanity, or also envelop themselves into Social Media.  It is now the most popular means of free publicity, but also an effective way to get close to fans.  As the title of this article states,  I don’t truly believe it is all a “gimmick” but I do sense many artists doing things just because it may bring attention to them.  They just so happen to be conveniently timed around a release, launch or celeb party. 

Lady Gaga Debuts Princess Diana Track at U.K. Show. (LexisNexis Academic). WENN Entertainment News Wire Service.  9 September 2012.  Retrieved on September 30, 2012.

Publicity Gimmicks You Must Know.  Mens XP.  13 September 2012.  Retrieved on 30 September 2012.

Scott Stapp Announces Uncensored Tell-All Book; Lead Singer of Creed to Introduce Sinner’s Creed Memoir This Fall. (LexisNexisAcademic). PR Newswire.  13 August 2012.  Retrieved on September 30, 2012.