The moment the word original comes into play, at least 90% of your competition just faded away. This is great news for many reasons.

First, as I’ve stated several times, not all airplanes can fly at 35,000 feet. Some are only equipped (designed) to fly at much lower altitudes. Therefore, the first successful ingredient for any original band, is to make absolutely sure that all of the players are on the same page with this realization. Further, remember that the true “Rat Race” is taking place in the “cover band” realm of music. Just look at your local musicians classified ads; someone is always looking for somebody else. It’s like a whirlwind of musicians, all caught up in the “which clubs are you playing at this weekend” thing.

Please understand, I’m not saying that the Top-40 scene (club circuit) is a bad thing. I am, however, saying that THIS is where the masses dwell. In addition, prior to turning pro national, I played in that same scene for over fifteen years (four to six nights per week, all throughout the good old USA).

An original band is completely different! An original band, for example, generally composes it’s own material and desires the opportunities to share that material with a more worldly audience. Further, an original band is generally seeking a record contract/publishing deal with major distribution, promotion, touring, and all the fixins’, as they say. Therefore, the next ingredient is to be aware of the undertaking itself. It’s magnitude! Make no mistake about it, this is where the big boys play. Don’t jump in unless you’re ready to climb the mountain.

It’s important to remember that a decison to become original effects everyone and everything in your life. There are wives, girlfriends, businesses, and responsibilities in your life that must be considered, consulted with, and informed of all aspects of the journey. Hey, if you’re 19 years old, already married, have a child, and working in the local factory, chances are, you might have to sit this one out for a while. In short, stick with the cover band scene for a few years. You’ll need the security and so will your family. Does this mean it’s over for you? No my friend; not by a long shot. There are other ways that you can emerge as an artist right from where you’re sitting. The irony is, that you could actually win the race without ever leaving your comfort zone. Once again, email Ultra Guitar Method if you have questions, and we’ll be glad to give you a few tips.

If everyone directly involved understands the possibilities AND the consequences, then you’re off to the next step.

Next ingredient…ripples! That’s right, ripples!

Imagine smooth water in a beautiful swimming pool. Imagine it’s wonderful calmness. Now, imagine throwing a stone into the middle of the pool. What do you see? RIPPLES! Several ripples.

Everything inside of that first ripple is your CORE. Only the closest of the closest people are inside of that first ripple. Think of it as the ultimate security zone. Now, you’re welcome to do what you like, however, there are horror stories pertaining to groups that have been ripped apart because that first ripple was penetrated by an individual(s) who had a secret agenda. Therefore, why would you place your entire operation (family included) in harms way?

It’s up to you and your band mates (and family members) to decide who and what is included in that first ripple. Just remember that the first ripple will make you or break you in the end. In short, you’re establishing the ultimate enterprise.

Second ripple: This ripple would most likely consist of sound technicians, lighting technicians, security, engineers, producers, and other ground level personnel. Hey, if you’ve grown up with your lighting technician, then this individual might have to be part of the first ripple. Hopefully, you’re beginning to get the idea here.

There is an actual concept that is taught in certain professions and actually required of certain professions such as law and medicine (among others). You must strive to keep everyone outside of that first ripple at PROFESSIONAL ARMS LENGTH. Think about that! Professional arms length. What does it mean? If you’re not sure, email Ultra Guitar Method. We’ll help you in your understanding.

People in general (audiences), are very attracted to those of us in the entertainment industry. In fact, some will stop at nothing to become a part of the “scene”. In reality, they’re attempting to penetrate all outer ripples in order to get to ripple number one, the core. Devices (ripples) should always be in place to prevent this type of penetration (band spokesman, security, manager, etc.). If anyone can just penetrate at will, you’ve already failed. Someone just breached your security zone and sunk your battleship. Game over. Tilt! Next player please.

If you think it’s tough to maintain this type of protocol at the local level, just wait until you get to Hollywood or Nashville, New York City, or Chicago (wherever your enterprise ends up). I’ll tell you a little nasty secret. Some of the most down and dirty people in the industry are those who make the industry roll. Beware! The ultimate attempt at penetration. If one doesn’t understand the music business, then for the sake of your loved ones, stay the H_ _ L away.

Professional arms length! Remember it.

Are you beginning to visualize the ripples now? Good. Because this concept will help to protect you and yours along the way. No applause necessary, buy me a beer someday when you hit!

Needless to say, the original band is similar to a traveling circus. It gets in and it gets out; quickly. What does this mean? When was the last time you attended a circus, a concert, a Broadway Musical? Let’s go through the steps. You purchase a ticket. You show up at the event. You’re directed to your seating. You watch the show and then suddenly you’re back home. Notice anything?

RIPPLES! From the parking lot, security, ticket takers, ushers, and mysterious other types of personnel….all ripples. Let me ask you this question. Did you get the chance to penetrate any of those ripples, let alone ripple number one? H _ _ L no. Exactly my point!

You, my friend, were kept at a theatrical version of professional arms length! Now, that’s entertainment.

Join me next time for a continuation of this subject. Hold on to your hats though, things are about to heat up.

 ©2008 Michael E. Fletcher. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 13th, 2008 at 1:21 pm and is filed under Songwriters And Performers Workshop, The Music Business. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.