AirPlay Direct Artist Membership Surpasses 12,000 Member Mark
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Robert Weingartz
rdw@airplaydirect.com
AIRPLAY DIRECT OFFICIALLY SURPASSES THE 12,000 ARTIST MEMBER MARK
On July 20th, 2008 AirPlay Direct hit a very important company milestone as our artist membership grew beyond the 12,000 mark. AirPlay Direct has done very little corporate advertising and this growth is a direct reflection of professional referrals made by the company’s loyal and expanding member base, and industry “word of mouse”.
AirPlay Direct also has over 2,500 radio station members, with current membership spanning 100 countries globally. And to date, AirPlay Direct has now delivered over 2,000,000 digital packages on behalf of our members saving them over $20,000,000 in the process.
“I am very pleased at the on-going and exponential growth AirPlay Direct is experiencing. It has taken us three years and a tremendous amount of effort by all involved (including our members) to grow the company to this point. 2008 is going to be a very big year for AirPlay Direct as the music industry continues to evolve and embrace digital delivery as never before.” Robert Weingartz, CEO / AirPlay Direct
AirPlay Direct is currently looking for strong strategic partnerships and investors to accelerate our growth and technology initiatives. Interested parties should respond to office@airplaydirect.com
AirPlay Direct… go straight to the source!
For more information on AirPlay Direct please visit www.AirPlayDirect.com
AirPlay Direct’s Mike Kreher To Sit On Radio Panel
Michael Kreher, Director of Business Development at AirPlay Direct, will be participating in the Radio Panel during the 2008 Music Business TeleWebinar presented by Woo Media Works. The 2008 Music Business TeleWebinar is a 6 Night (July 7th, 8th, 9th, 14th, 15th, and 16th), 90 minute per session, Music Knowledge Event that takes place on the attendees’ phone or computer. Each night Panelist discuss timely topics designed to give the attendee Trends, Techniques, Tools & Tips to make it in Today’s New Music Market. Panels start at 9PM EST/6PM PST Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday during Week 1 and repeat same nights Week 2.
Chuck Woo, music consultant hosts all 6 nights of this Music Business TeleWebinar. Woo has long felt that the hotel music conference wasn’t the best learning environment for those wanting to really learn.
“Logistics, expenses and other factors prevent these conferences from having the best information, best companies and best presentation for attendees. Now with gas prices at 4.00 per gallon, teleconferences and Webinars make more sense. Our convenient playback ability allows attendees to listen to the recorded sessions over and over until they get it Right!”
For more information regarding the event and to register for the sessions visit http://www.themusicbusinesstelewebinar.com/.
Michael Kreher joined the AirPlay Direct team earlier this year in the role of Director of Business Development. Kreher is responsible for creating strategic partnerships and promotions with corporate clients in the music, film, television, entertainment, specialty retail, apparel, travel, liquor, automobile and other lifestyle categories to help grow the AirPlay Direct member base and enhance brand awareness. He is also responsible for developing relationships with radio stations, conferences, festivals, artists, artist managers, talent agents, and other industry executives.
Radio Programmers Newsletter July 8, 2008
AirPlay Direct is pleased to announce our Sponsor for the July edition of our Radio Programmers Newsletter, Pres Pak Public Relations www.MySpace.com/prespakpr
AirPlay Direct’s digital delivery services are always FREE to our members thanks to wonderful Sponsors like Pres Pak Public Relations. Pres Pak Public Relations is a full-service marketing and public relations company driven by journalist and publicist Tom Kidd.
Tom Kidd has been instrumental in the Oscar nomination campaigns for the scores to “The Passion of the Christ” and “March of the Penguins.” “In addition, I have helped drive the successful Grammy nomination campaign for Chris Walden’s “Home of my Heart.” Through the years, I have had the honor to work with clients including Sixties acid guru Dr. Timothy Leary and Eighties Grammy winners Men At Work. In addition, Pres Pak has been honored to work with a diverse group of Indie artists ranging from Hermosa Beach-based hair rockers Too Loose to singer/songwriter Debra Davis and rocking blues group Kelly’s Lot’s, the National Spokesband for HepCAware.org.”
Throughout the month of July, AirPlay Direct will be running our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Jazz / Latin Jazz / World” artist contest. The Grand Prize package will include:
- A 12 week national radio promotion package from Lisa Reedy Promotions (a $2,250 value)
- A professional microphone package from SHURE Microphones (a $1,600 value)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising and interview package from Lizard Lounge Radio (a $2,750 value)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising and PR campaign from Mi2N (a $750 value)
- An international PR / Marketing campaign from Anesa (a $3,000 value)
- A career “evaluation and consultation” with Shele Sondheim (a $5,000 value)
- 8 vocal lessons and a copy of Jeannie’s vocal enhancement materials “The Contemporary Vocalist” Series from Jeannie Deva Voice Studios (a $1,000 value)
- A “Featured Artist” promotion package from Beyond Bop Radio (a $250 value)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
The Grand Prize Package is valued at over $18,000…!
This contest is FREE TO ENTER and very simple. The only three requirements to enter are that you must be an AirPlay Direct artist / label member (free to join), your music must fall into the Jazz / Latin Jazz / World genre and you must submit your AirPlay Direct DPK to office@airplaydirect.com prior to the official entry deadline of July 25th. Whether you are an indie artist or a well established record label with a roster, pick your best songs, you can submit from 1 to 3 tracks per artist. Please make sure to note that you are submitting for the Jazz / Latin Jazz / World artist contest. Deadline for submissions is July 25th. The winner will be announced and “Featured” in the August Radio Programmers Newsletter, as well as in a company press release to all media outlets.
A little about Lisa Reedy Promotions: www.jazzpromotion.com
Lisa Reedy works with 500+ radio stations throughout the United States and Internationally on a weekly basis to solicit radio airplay, interviews to promote new releases & artist tour-dates, Charting at JazzWeek, CMJ, !Earshot, Chart Attack, Roots Music Report and other applicable music industry charts; obtains special promotions such as station IDs, CD giveaways, special program features and quotes from radio personalities. Stations include NPR affiliates, college & community stations, satellite radio, cable music stations, syndicated programs, select international stations, The Weather Channel, and airplay in hotels, in stores and on airlines. Lisa Reedy Promotions has a consistent, proven track record in obtaining airplay and charting success for her clients and provides each with a weekly progress report. In addition, print publicity services are available.
A little about SHURE: www.shure.com
Founded in 1925, SHURE Incorporated www.shure.com is widely acknowledged as the leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value.
SHURE’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones and wireless microphone systems for performers including the legendary 55SH Elvis mic and the industry standard SM58, award-winning earphones and headsets for MP3 players and smart phones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, SHURE products are the first choice wherever audio performance is a top priority: on concert stages, in recording studios, at radio and television networks, and in public address systems in houses of worship, meeting facilities, and other venues.
A little about Lizard Lounge Radio: www.lizardloungemusic.com
Lizard Lounge Radio (LLR) is a 24/7 broadcaster of Independent International Music artists.
A little about Mi2N.com: www.mi2n.com
Leveraging its decade-long leadership role in the music news sector, Music Industry News Network (Mi2N) now offers a broad array of PR marketing and advertising services meant to meet the specific needs of the music community. Utilizing multiple channels, from its syndicated newswires to social networks and 30,000 subsciber base, Mi2N places your press release in front of your desired audience.
A little about Anesa: www.anesa.tv
We combine techniques used in Marketing and Public Relations to guarantee a successful campaign, event or product. We edit and distribute invitations, bulletins, and press releases to the Hispanic Media, news and entertainment using our database of radio stations, T.V., magazines, Weekly Publications or Monthly newspaper. We also specialize in preparing promotional sales and Media Kits.
SHELE SONDHEIM
A little about Shele Sondheim: www.csmwordsandmusic.com
Shele’s recording and performing credits include Phil Collins, Natalie Cole, Little Richard, Billy Preston, Lola Falana, Wayne Newton, Flip Wilson and Roy Clark as well as extensive worldwide TV & Film credits.
Most recently, Phil Collins’ Little Dreams Band, penning their title track Donne Le Moi on Capitol/EMI followed by the Phil Collins Limited Edition Swatch Watch campaign, with proceeds going to Little Dreams Foundation in Geneva. Currently, Shele functions in dual capacity as a successful songwriter/music producer and music entrepreneur. His company is engaged in the development of competitive materials and artists in pop, r&b, rock and dance. Their work includes the discover, development and representation of young emerging artists both domestic and international, including growing sponsorship alliances with music industry leaders and brand manufacturers. The company participates annually at atll the major music trade events whereby Shele facilitates unique opportunities for presenting original materials and artist to global industry contacts at record labels, TV & film, fashion music branding sponsors and multi-media cross platforms.
A little about Jeannie Deva: www.JeannieDeva.com
Jeannie Deva is an international celebrity vocal coach, published author, clinician, recording studio vocal producer, trainer of voice teachers and originator of The Deva Method® - Complete Voice Training for Stage and Studio. Thousands of singers world-wide have been trained by Jeannie and her expanding network of certified Deva Method
teachers. Clients: Grammy Award Winner, Aimee Mann, Grammy Nominee Harriet Schock, members of the J. Geils Band, Foghat, #1 Billboard Dance Chart Samantha James, Idol Finalist Mikalah Gordon (#11 of Season 4), Leads in Broadway’s “Wicked” and “Grease”, members of the touring cast of Fame, Dar Williams, Charolote Jorgensen (Dancing with the Stars partner to John Hurley), Singers for Pink, Elton John, Celine Dion, Julio Iglesias and Stevie Wonder.
A little about Beyond Bop: www.beyondbop.com
Beyond Bop is an internet jazz radio station created for musicians by musicians showcasing some of the best kept secrets in jazz.
A little about AirPlay Direct: www.AirPlayDirect.com
AirPlay Direct www.AirPlayDirect.com is a new revolutionary, efficient and very cost effective way (FREE) to securely deliver your “broadcast-quality” music and electronic press kits to radio programmers and music industry professionals around the world.
AirPlay Direct is an easy to use digital file transfer system that was developed to streamline radio / artist promotion activities for today’s music industry. AirPlay Direct’s FREE digital services replace the unnecessary time and expense of putting together and sending out costly traditional artist packages and press kits via snail mail.
The winner of the AirPlay Direct “All Things Digital
Folk / Americana” artist contest is
Anne McCue!
She will be releasing a new album “East Of Electric” in August 2008. McCue recorded and produced the album at her own Flying Machine Studio in Nashville. It was mixed by Mike Esser at 16 Ton Studio and was mastered by Ray Kennedy at Zen Masters.
McCue recorded the album whilst waiting to record a new electric album. Inspired by the golden era of folk pop music which took place in the late sixties with such albums as Rubber Soul, Aftermath, bands like The Byrds and artists like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, Anne set about recording, playing every instrument she could get her hands on - guitars, mandolin, banjo, piano, bass guitar, ukulele, shaker, tambourine, organ, drum, etc.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at http://www.airplaydirect.com/AnneMcCue
Throughout the month of June, AirPlay Direct ran our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Folk / Americana” artist contest. The winner Anne McCue will receive the Grand Prize package which is worth over $30,000 and includes:
- A 16 week national radio promotion package fromBillWence Promotions(a $3,500 value)
- A 12 weekdigital radio promotion package from 1617 Virtual(a $4,500 value)
- A 12 week national publicity / marketing package from Press Pak Public Relations (a $9,000 value)
- An official Folk Alliance National Conference 2009 live performance showcase (value priceless)
- A recording studio package for a master quality EP (5 songs) from Slot-1 Studios (a $5,000 value)
- A song on The Sin City Social Club Sampler Vol. # 10 / distributed during AMA Conf. and SXSW (a $750 value)
- Placement to digital downloads via download page at VirtualMusicMarket.com for one year (value priceless)
- Placement on the True Talent Management film & TV placement compilation (a $150 value)
- An on-air “feature artist” interview on Big Kev’s syndicated radioshow “It’s Motel Time Again” (valuepriceless)
- An on-air “feature artist” interview with Rick Star from Texas Rebel Radio (value priceless)
- A on-air “feature artist” interview on the Billy Block Show (value priceless)
- A feature artist interview with Big Kev in the Artist Development Co-op’s Media Guide magazine (value priceless)
- A live performance slot at Billy Block’s showcase in Nashville (value priceless)
- A live performance slot at Famous Dave’s BBQ inMinneapolis (a $500 value)
- A live performance slot at The Berkeley Cafe in Raleigh, NC (value priceless)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
AIRPLAY DIRECT’S FEATURED ARTISTS
FOR JULY
Manda just finished her first full-length studio album with Israeli producer Guy Erez. The album entitled “Keeps On Turning” is a precious work, one of those rare gems coming from the independent artist world. The album was mastered on February 15th, 2008 by GRAMMY Award wining mastering engineer Gavin Lurssen. When listening to the record, one will certainly feel the influence of Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Bruce Springsteen. With distinctive Hammond B3 parts, jangly guitars, comfortable grooves, haunting harmonica, and sultry vocals layered with delicate understated harmonies, Manda delivers a female vocal of unique expression and an album that’s destined to “Keep On Turning”. Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/Manda
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/JohnTracy
Lorraine’s debut solo album “Lessons Learned” unveils a more soulful and established vocalist, as she provides a window into her heart and the experiences that have made her the vocalist she is today.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/lorrainereid
It contains 11 tracks written and performed by Paul Evans Pederson, Jr. (acoustic guitar, vocals), with help from Jim Hefferman (steel guitar, dobro, electric lead and rhythm guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, banjo, and drum programming), Bill Corvino (electric lead and rhythm guitar, gut string acoustic), and Chester Ferguson (sax).
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/PaulEvansPedersenJr
At a time when pop music is ruled by dance divas who phone in their vocal performances, Waters is a bracing anomaly: an artist whose singing is a visceral, deeply soulful experience, for her as well as audiences. Waters can belt and growl with abandon, but she truly proves her mettle with sorrowful, melodically spacious ballads that give her burning contralto room to set off the trip wires of the heart. In another era, she might have been heralded as a torch singer with the phrasing of Billie Holiday or Peggy Lee and explosive passion akin to Edith Piaf.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/HeatherWaters
What shines through on all these songs are Mann and Stapleton’s incredible skills as songwriters and multi-instumentalists. The two trade off on lead vocals and play and program everything from synths to the dobro, to of course, the computer and banjo, pioneering a sound that is truly their own.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/computervsbanjo
Her newest CD BETTER LATE THAN NEVER is an upgraded, uplifting follow-up to her first CD UNINHIBITED. Depicting the Single woman’s journey and race against the clock, her music comes alive thanks to the help of her former Producer Paul Snook of Night Owl Studios, NYC, and Kieran Pardias of Cove City Sound Studios. The production quality is high caliber: Ranging from pop/rock/hot ac, to simple acoustic with an emphasis on the lyric and simplicity of the voice. Ms. Linden has already been licensing her tunes to Music Libraries for Film and TV Placement.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/KamaLinden
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/LauraRoppe
“There’s something very special about her voice,” says Grammy-nominated producer, Jud Friedman, recalling the first time he heard her sing, “…she’s got this sound in her that is so soulful and emotional. Breanna’s voice stands out; it has power and passion.”
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/breanna
AirPlay Direct… go straight to the source!
Airplay Direct Celebrates Three-Year Anniversary
Cutting edge online company streamlines and defines industry standards for independent artist promotion in a digital world.
Atlanta, GA - In just three short years, AirPlay Direct has become the global leader in digital music delivery services to radio for indie artists and record labels around the world. The AirPlay Direct community has grown exponentially over the past year and includes over 11,500 artist and label members, and over 2,400 radio station members.
AirPlay Direct’s professional membership now spans 104 countries globally.
It is no secret that the Music Industry paradigm is rapidly changing; more and more, industry professionals and content providers alike rely upon digital methods of obtaining and distributing music, especially in the business-to-business realm.
Each day artists and record labels turn to AirPlay Direct to get advice and guidance on how to improve their professional growth. The company’s loyal and growing member base is the result of personal recommendations and personal relationships. Each month over 30,000 unique visitors view more than 2,900,000 artist pages and are responsible for over 4,500,000 hits on AirPlayDirect.com.
To date AirPlay Direct has delivered over 2,000,000 digital packages to music industry professionals on behalf of their artist and label members; including over 73,000 new tracks to radio. With the average cost of a hard copy artist package set at $10, AirPlay Direct has saved their members over $20,000,000 in hard costs and has become the #1free electronic press kit service in the world.
“As I look back over the past three years I am filled with a deep sense of pride at what we have accomplished as a company. We have helped to shape and define the current landscape of the newly emerging digital music industry, and we will continue to strive earnestly towards our goals of true independent artist advocacy, education and empowerment” said Robert Weingartz, CEO and Founder of AirPlay Direct. “I am also very proud of AirPlay Direct’s eco-friendly solution to the issue of CD waste in our industry. By utilizing AirPlay Direct’s digital platform artists, record labels and music industry professionals can cut costs, increase their speed to market and contribute to the health and well being of our planet.”
For more information on AirPlay Direct’s free digital delivery services and how you can start putting more money on your bottom line please visit www.AirPlayDirect.com
AirPlay Direct… go straight to the source!
Contact: Robert Weingartz
rdw@airplaydirect.com
Thompson Square Wins Airplay Direct’s “All Things Digital Country / Alt. Country” Artist Contest
Throughout the month of May, AirPlay Direct ran our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Country / Alt. Country” artist contest. The winner Thompson Square will receive the Grand Prize package worth over $19,000 and includes:
- A 12 week Country radio digital promotion package from 1617 Virtual (a $4,500 value)
- A 12 week national publicity / marketing package from CDA Promotions-Nashville (a $6,000 value)
- A 12 week national Country radio promotion package from Airplay Specialists (a $4,000 value)
- Placement to digital downloads via download page at VirtualMusicMarket.com for one year (value priceless)
- A six month song-plugging web presence in the HitMenSongpluggers.com Digital Song Library (a $3,000 value)
- A half hour on-air feature artist interview with Big Kev from the Big Country Revue on WXLV Roots 90.3 FM
- A 2 page feature artist interview with Big Kev in the Artist Development Co-op’s Media Guide magazine
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
A country duo in the truest sense - husband & wife Keifer and Shawna Thompson.
Not since Johnny and June, Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius, and George & Tammy has there been real-life husband and wife duet partners. And in that male-female “relationship” tradition, there were Porter & Dolly, Conway & Loretta, and Kenny Rogers had some monster duets with a variety of female artists, like Dolly Parton and Dottie West.
The point is we’re missing that in country music today. Yeah, there’s Tim & Faith and they tour together some, but Keifer and Shawna are something different. They are two-gether.
The tradition continues.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at http://www.airplaydirect.com/1617virtual
AirPlay Direct would like to thank our Sponsors who have contributed their time, resources and expertise to make this fantastic FREE TO ENTER artist contest a tremendous success.
For more information on 1617 Virtual please visit www.1617virtual.com
For more information on CDA Promotions-Nashville please write to CDAnashville@aol.com
For more information on Airplay Specialists please visit www.AirplaySpecialists.com
For more information on Virtual Music Market please visit www.VirtualMusicMarket.com
For more information on Hitmen Songpluggers please visit www.HitMenSongpluggers.com
For more information on AirPlay Direct please visit www.AirPlayDirect.com
AirPlay Direct… go straight to the source!
Call For Sponsors: AirPlay Direct’s Jazz / Latin Jazz / World Artist Contest 2008
AirPlay Direct has confirmed the date for our “All Things Digital Jazz / Latin Jazz / World” Artist Contest for the month of July 2008.
We have confirmed our first few Co-Sponsors for the event and are looking for additional Co-Sponsors in the following Areas:
- PR / Media firms
- Radio stations (announce & feature the winner with an on-air performance and interview)
- Equipment manufacturers or retailers that can contribute an instrument package
- Print publications that can run an ads and do a feature story on the winner of our contest
- Merchandise manufacturers, t-shirts, hats, stickers, etc.
- Festival / live-performance opportunities
- CD / DVD manufacturers
- Video companies to shoot a video
- Photographers / artist photo shoot
- Recording studio / studio time / production services
- A song placement in Film / TV / Music Supervisors
- Web Development / Graphics firm
AirPlay Direct’s Sponsorship / Contest programs are a valuable exposure and marketing tool that serve to help our Sponsors gain new clients, increase their corporate revenue, expose and grow their brand and company, and help them to develop a stronger global corporate presence and digital distribution footprint.
Our Sponsorship / Contest programs really do bring a lot more to the table in the way of press and media impressions, versus just a pure advertising play. These events receive a lot of press and exposure and create tremendous “good-will” and business opportunities within the industry for our Sponsors.
If you are interested in more information on this exciting opportunity, please contact us for more information.
Very best regards,
Mike Kreher
Director of Business Development
AirPlay Direct
Radio Programmers Newsletter - June 6, 2008
RADIO PROGRAMMERS NEWSLETTER :June 6, 2008
AirPlay Direct is pleased to announce our Sponsor for the June edition of our Radio Programmers Newsletter, SHURE Microphones. www.shure.com
AirPlay Direct’s digital delivery services are always FREE to our members thanks to wonderful Sponsors like SHURE Microphones. Founded in 1925, SHURE Incorporated www.shure.com is widely acknowledged as the leading manufacturer of microphones and audio electronics. Over the years, the Company has designed and produced many high-quality professional and consumer audio products that have become legendary for performance, reliability, and value.
SHURE’s diverse product line includes world-class wired microphones and wireless microphone systems for performers including the legendary 55SH Elvis mic and the industry standard SM58, award-winning earphones and headsets for MP3 players and smart phones, and top-rated phonograph cartridges for professional DJs. Today, SHURE products are the first choice wherever audio performance is a top priority: on concert stages, in recording studios, at radio and television networks, and in public address systems in houses of worship, meeting facilities, and other venues.
Throughout the month of June, AirPlay Direct will be running our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Folk / Americana” artist contest. The Grand Prize package will include:
- A 16 week national radio promotion package from Bill Wence Promotions (a $3,500 value)
- A 12 week digital radio promotion package from 1617 Virtual (a $4,500 value)
- A 12 week national publicity / marketing package from Press Pak Public Relations (a $9,000 value)
- An official Folk Alliance National Conference 2009 live performance showcase (value priceless)
- A recording studio package for a master quality EP (5 songs) from Slot-1 Studios (a $5,000 value)
- A song on The Sin City Social Club Sampler Vol. # 10 / distributed during AMA Conf. and SXSW (a $750 value)
- Placement to digital downloads via download page at VirtualMusicMarket.com for one year (value priceless)
- Placement on the True Talent Management film & TV placement compilation (a $150 value)
- An on-air “feature artist” interview on Big Kev’s syndicated radio show “It’s Motel Time Again” (value priceless)
- An on-air “feature artist” interview with Rick Star from Texas Rebel Radio (value priceless)
- A on-air “feature artist” interview on the Billy Block Show (value priceless)
- A feature artist interview with Big Kev in the Artist Development Co-op’s Media Guide magazine (value priceless)
- A live performance slot at Billy Block’s showcase in Nashville (value priceless)
- A live performance slot at Famous Dave’s BBQ in Chicago (value priceless)
- A live performance slot at The Berkeley Cafe in Raleigh, NC (value priceless)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
The Grand Prize Package is valued at over $30,000…!
This contest is FREE TO ENTER and very simple. The only three requirements to enter are that you must be an AirPlay Direct artist / label member (free to join), your music must fall into the Folk / Americana genre and you must submit your AirPlay Direct DPK to office@airplaydirect.com prior to the official entry deadline of June 25th. Whether you are an indie artist or a well established record label with a roster, pick your best songs, you can submit from 1 to 3 tracks per artist. Please make sure to note that you are submitting for the Folk / Americana artist contest. Deadline for submissions is June 25th. The winner will be announced and “Featured” in the July Radio Programmers Newsletter, as well as in a company press release to all media outlets.
A little about Bill Wence Promotions:
Bill Wence is a writer, picker, singer and above all, a music lover. Living in Los Angeles in the mid-60’s and in the Northwest, and in Alaska in the late 60’s, he played music in clubs and shows, as well as getting his start in radio and TV. During this period, Bill was booking shows in Alaska and brought Bobby Bare, Charlie Rich, Ernest Tubb and others to the Capital city. www.billwencepromotions.com
Bill moved to Nashville in 1973 and went on the road playing piano with Tom T. Hall. As a writer, Bill has had Billboard cuts by Ronnie McDowell, Cristy Lane, Bobby G. Rice, Orion and others. He had four self-penned, self-produced and self-promoted Billboard singles in 1979-80, which led people to ask, “Hey, can you do that for me?”.
Bill opened up his own promotion company in 1980 charting hundreds of Billboard singles in the next two decades with acts as varied as Collin Raye, Jerry Jeff Walker, Blackhawk, Randy Travis and many others.
Bill started working with NPR as well as College and AAA stations. Bill was a founding member of the Americana Music Association. Some of his clients in the past decade have included James Talley, Paul Stookey, Mary Gauthier, Jonell Mosser, John Hall, The Great Divide, Red Meat, Mare Winningham, Ruthie and the Wranglers, Tom T. Hall, The Outlaws (Waylon Jennings-Jessi Colter-Tompall Glaser-Willie Nelson), Bobby Bare, The Amazing Rhythm Aces, Orleans, Michael Jonathan and The Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour.
A little about 1617 Virtual:
1617 Virtual, LLC, is a marketing and promotion company that digitally releases and exposes music products to radio stations of all formats via a worldwide 11,000+ radio station database utilizing AirPlay Direct. Past clients include Lee Roy Parnell, Pam Tillis, Count Ridicula, and Burrito Deluxe. Add to that a decade of marketing and advertising experience and 1617 Virtual has much of the same expertise as a conventional record label, but they operate almost exclusively in the digital world, which is a new playing field with evolving ideas and strategies. www.1617virtual.com
A little about Pres Pak Public Relations:
Pres Pak Public Relations is a full-service marketing and public relations company driven by journalist and publicist Tom Kidd. He has been instrumental in the Oscar nomination campaigns for the scores to “The Passion of the Christ” and “March of the Penguins.” In addition, I have helped drive the successful Grammy nomination campaign for Chris Walden’s “Home of my Heart.” Through the years, I have had the honor to work with clients including Sixties acid guru Dr. Timothy Leary and Eighties Grammy winners Men At Work. In addition, Pres Pak has been honored to work with a diverse group of Indie artists ranging from Hermosa Beach-based hare rockers Too Loose to singer/songwriter Debra Davis and rocking blues group Kelly’s Lot’s, the National Spokesband for HepCAware.org.
A little about Folk Alliance:
Folk Alliance is the service association for the field, and works on behalf of the folk music and dance industry year round. Our advocacy efforts tackle issues important to the folk arts community. We offer a business directory of contacts for members, and a non-profit group exemption program for US-based organizations. www.folk.org
In 1989, 125 people from across the continent traveled to a retreat in Malibu, California to begin discussions on the formation of a coalition of folk organizers. Invited by Clark and Elaine Weissman and the California Traditional Music Society, they were major presenters and small folk societies, people who’d done business across the continent, but who’d never met face to face. The earthquake that rocked southern California just days before the event was nothing compared to how this formational meeting has changed the way that the folk music and dance presenters, performers, agents, managers, media, and record companies do business in North America.
Our international conferences, held each February, have become the annual “town hall” of the folk community. Nearly 2,000 of our 2,400 members attend each year to conduct business, connect with their peers, and simply recharge their batteries for the coming year.
A little about Slot-1 Recording Studios:
Slot 1 Recording is located in suburban Philadelphia in the Rose Creek Valley - surrounded by nature it is the perfect place for creativity. Designed for acoustic recording, impeccable recording environment, using the latest equipment and technology. We are known for our expert ability to capture the acoustic moment. Take our online studio tour: http://www.slot-1.com/studio_tour
The winning artist will be working with an award winning songwriter and producer of folk, Americana and rock music.
Top national known Philadelphia area studio players are available for sessions.
Memberships: Philadelphia Folk Song Society, Folk Alliance (NERFA), voting member of NARAS (National
Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, the Grammy People) NARAS Producers Wing, NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) ASCAP
A little about Sin City Social Club:
Shilah Morrow has been in the music business for 20 years (15 of which were spent at the Warner Music Group (WEA, Atlantic Records and Giant Records) in sales & marketing. She is currently the President of Sin City Marketing, which was launched during the Americana Music Assoc. conference in 2002 as a retail and lifestyle marketing company with a focus on roots, americana, alt. country and country rock. For the past 5 years Shilah has been at the epicenter of a musical groundswell in Los Angeles, successfully branding Sin City as a musical community for artists and consumers through concert promotion, grass roots marketing, and consulting. The company has now expanded the franchise to include a label, artist management and live concert production. www.sincitysocialclub.com
A little about Virtual Music Market:
VirtualMusicMarket.com is a record label / download store. It serves as a consignment download store for some independent songwriters / artists, but is also a home to music VMM itself creates, owns, or acquires.
VirtualMusicMarket.com is not an mp3 clearing house, accepting any and all products submitted like most of the download stores on the Web. VMM operates more like a record label, using 30+ years of experience in Nashville in songwriting, song-plugging, and music publishing to be selective about what it sells and by “releasing” and promoting the music sold in the store to radio and elsewhere in hopes of making sure great artists and their music get exposed to and bought by music consumers. www.VirtualMusicMarket.com
A little about The Billy Block Show:
The Billy Block Show is the popular live music concert series held every Tuesday night at Cadillac Ranch on historic Lower Broadway in Nashville . It is consistently filled with a loyal audience that ranges from music industry leaders and musicians to college students and baby boomers that are turning on to this exciting new musical movement.
The Billy Block Show & Locals Only on Radio - This weekly 2 hour radio show is heard every Sunday Night on 103 WKDF from 6 to 8pm and is broadcast LIVE from Cadillac Ranch and enjoys legions of loyal listeners. The Billy Block Show on Radio is the only programming dedicated to the promotion of traditional country, alternative country, and American roots music in the Nashville market. www.westernbeat.com
A little about The Artist Development Group:
The Artist Development Co-Op is a full service promotion company that designs promotion, marketing and media development programs for Independent musicians. With nearly a century of combined experience in radio, major label promotion, management, film and television placement and marketing the Artist Development Group has the experience and knowledge to move your career forward. www.artistdevelopmentcoop.com
The Co-Op publishes the ADC Media Guide which now reaches over 30,000 readers and is gearing up for the summer launch of Roots Music Online Television. We also offer film and production for music video at an affordable rate. Our program is an effective, affordable solution to all of your promotion and marketing needs.
A little about AirPlay Direct:
AirPlay Direct www.AirPlayDirect.com is a new revolutionary, efficient and very cost effective way (FREE) to securely deliver your “broadcast-quality” music and electronic press kits to radio programmers and music industry professionals around the world.
AirPlay Direct is an easy to use digital file transfer system that was developed to streamline radio / artist promotion activities for today’s music industry. AirPlay Direct’s FREE digital services replace the unnecessary time and expense of putting together and sending out costly traditional artist packages and press kits via snail mail.
The winner of the AirPlay Direct “All Things Digital Country / Alt. Country” artist contest is Thompson Square!
A country duo in the truest sense - husband & wife Keifer and Shawna Thompson.
Not since Johnny and June, Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius, and George & Tammy has there been real-life husband and wife duet partners. And in that male-female “relationship” tradition, there were Porter & Dolly, Conway & Loretta, and Kenny Rogers had some monster duets with a variety of female artists, like Dolly Parton and Dottie West.
The point is we’re missing that in country music today. Yeah, there’s Tim & Faith and they tour together some, but Keifer and Shawna are something different. They are two-gether. The tradition continues. Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at http://www.airplaydirect.com/1617virtual
Throughout the month of May, AirPlay Direct ran our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Country / Alt. Country” artist contest. The winner Thompson Square will receive the Grand Prize package which is worth over $19,000 and includes:
- A 12 week Country radio digital promotion package from 1617 Virtual (a $4,500 value)
- A 12 week national publicity / marketing package from CDA Promotions-Nashville (a $6,000 value)
- A 12 week national Country radio promotion package from Airplay Specialists (a $4,000 value)
- Placement to digital downloads via download page at VirtualMusicMarket.com for one year (value priceless)
- A six month song-plugging web presence in the HitMenSongpluggers.com Digital Song Library (a $3,000 value)
- A half hour on-air feature artist interview with Big Kev from the Big Country Revue on WXLV Roots 90.3 FM
- A 2 page feature artist interview with Big Kev in the Artist Development Co-op’s Media Guide magazine
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
AIRPLAY DIRECT’S FEATURED RADIO PROGRAMMER FOR JUNE
Well known and respected in the Americana music field, Kevin “Big Kev” Ploghoft has been in the radio industry for over 20 years and is currently the Talent Coordinator and Content Consultant for WXLV - Roots 90.3 in Schnecksville, Pa., and also serves as Music Director for Regional Roots Radio.
Big Kev is the former Music Director of WDVR-FM in Sergeantsville, NJ (2002-2007) and is the Co-Creator, Co-Producer and host of the Living Room Series and the It’s Motel Time Again radio programs that air on numerous stations. Both radio programs are now available exclusively on AirPlay Direct as a “broadcast-quality” download for syndicated programming on your station. Listen to and download Big Kev’s “broadcast-quality” radio shows at http://www.airplaydirect.com/BigKev
AIRPLAY DIRECT’S FEATURED ARTISTS FOR MAY
Zito’s journey took off at the age of 19, when he busted into the local St. Louis music scene, developing his sound even further from the stage. His first independent release arrived in 1996, titled “Blue Room” which included raw and funky songs “Hollywood” and “Pull the Trigger”. His songwriting experience would break through on his sophomore release titled “America’s Most Wanted” in 1999. This album shares his pop sensibilities and intense guitar work. “Crazy People”, “Deal Me In” and his own rendition of Elton John’s “Rocket Man” all set the pace to bring him into a national audience.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/MikeZito
Track listing:
1 Endless Thank You Loop 6 1 Realm
2 A Call to Action 7 True to Nature
3 A Striking Resemblance 8 Artist’s Mirage Two
4 Walk Me to the Window 9 Obliquity
5 Shashké 10 Corporate Chew Toy
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/LaurieLarson
“Common Ground” is a conversation between a “seasoned” citizen and a young rocker that takes place in a south Texas cafe’. They debate the music of yesteryear and today. The song has a fun twist when it’s revealed just, “who” the seasoned citizen is. Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/EdBentley
Reggae Gold 2008 is here and just like the girl on the cover, it’s hot! This top selling compilation is 15 years strong and shows no sign of slowing down! This year RG 08 includes the smash hit from Stephen and Damien Marley ‘The Mission’, and hot new tunes like ‘Doh’ by Serani and Bugle, ‘Money Changer’ from Mavado, and ‘The Plane Land’ by Richie Spice. Also includes a bonus mix disc by world champion Mighty Crown Soundsystem. Reggae Gold is the one compilation that has it all.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at
www.airplaydirect.com/reggaegold
“Random Thoughts (From A Paralyzed Mind)” may be the band’s first full length, but the maturity exhibited will easily fool individuals into thinking that this is their fourth or fifth album.” Neufutur Magazine
Drawing emotional strength and wisdom from his own powerful personal life experiences, Bloom offers Random Thoughts (from a paralyzed mind), his insightful, musically and lyrically compelling debut that chronicles his dramatic shift from years of self-doubt (and physical problems with his voice) to his current emergence as a critically acclaimed, award winning artist and performer.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/peterbloomband
At its best, music is an interaction between the artist and his audience. John Farias, on his latest CD “Smells Like Britney - Be Like Hugh”, makes that interaction fun and inspirational. The new release includes upbeat, thought provoking, sarcastic humor and clever lyrics. Inspired by artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, and Santana, John has captivated his supporters with a unique blend of old-school rock infused with blues.
John’s new EP “Smells Like Britney - Be Like Hugh” was recorded with drummer Steven Sweet (Warrant). Adding an edginess to the record, Toby Wright (Korn, Metallica, Wallflowers) mixed the CD. And it features a Klub mix and a Radio mix of “Smells Like Britney” done by DJScottyK. Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/JOHNFARIAS
AirPlay Direct… go straight to the source!
AirPlay Direct Rockets Past 11,000 Artists, Increases Capacity
We’ve been so busy recently, that we almost forgot to mention that AirPlay Direct signed up it’s 11,000th artist account a few weeks ago. As you may recall, back in March we hit 10,000 artists, so things are growing fast!
Additionally, today we performed some major technology upgrades behind the scenes. Unfortunately, we had to be offline for several hours this morning in order to accomplish this and we apologize for any inconvenience. On the plus side, we’ve dramatically increased our storage capacity, beefed up our backup, and have implemented the next set of steps in making the homepage and all artist sites even more “search engine friendly” so radio stations can find artists more easily.
There are still many exciting changes to come . . . Thanks for everyone’s support!
Black Chapel Wins Airplay Direct’s “All Things Digital Hard Rock /Heavy Metal” Artist Contest
Throughout the month of April, AirPlay Direct ran our FREE to enter “All Things Digital Hard Rock / Heavy Metal” artist contest. The winner Black Chapel will receive the Grand Prize package which is worth over $30,000 and includes:
- A professional microphone package from SHURE Microphones (a $1,600 value)
- A PRS-SE Paul Allender model guitar from Paul Reed Smith Guitars (a $930 value)
- An Ibanez EDB700TK Ergodyne bass plus case from Sam Ash Music (a $1,030 value)
- A Trademark 60, 1×12 guitar combo amplifier and Double Drive 3X distortion pedal from Tech 21 NYC (a $980 value)
- A 12 week European PR / media campaign from Vigilante Music (an $8,000 value)
- A “Feature Interview”, advertising and merchandise package from KNAC.COM (a $7,500 value)
- An 8 week global digital advertising and marketing campaign from Fixion Media (a $2,500 value)
- A “Feature Interview” and advertising package from All Access Magazine (a $400 value)
- A main stage, prime time live performance slot at Indianapolis Metal Fest 2 this year (priceless…!)
- A live performance slot / sponsorship on the 2nd (side) stage at the South Texas Rock Fest (a $5,000 value)
- A “Featured Artist” advertising / promotion package from AirPlay Direct (a $1,500 value)
In this day and age of metal bands looking to be the next big thing or trying to find the next new sound, it’s hard to discern the good bands from the bands who are trying too hard. The bands that people tend to follow and support are typically the ones who aren’t looking to fit into some kind of mold but bands whose music flows seamlessly from their hearts thus creating a new sound without even trying. Enter BLACK CHAPEL.
Listen to and download “broadcast-quality” tracks at www.airplaydirect.com/BLACKCHAPEL
AirPlay Direct would like to thank our Sponsors who have contributed their time, resources and expertise to make this fantastic FREE TO ENTER artist contest a tremendous success.
For more information on SHURE Microphones please visit www.shure.com
For more information on PRS / Paul Reed Smith Guitars please visit www.prsguitars.com
For more information on SamAsh.com please visit www.SamAsh.com
For more informatio on Tech 21 please visit www.tech21nyc.com
For more information onVigilante please visit