Musician’s Notebook

Hey … pretty soon, you be able pretend to be your favorite local band when you play the popular interactive vid, Rock Band!

Harmonix is planning to add tools for bands and game developers to turn their songs into tracks for the game, according to Billboard Magazine.
At first, game tracks built by outside developers will only be available to Xbox 360 users, but the company wants to add these tools so they can be used by all consoles.

Now, tracks that are developed by other parties won’t be available through the actual ‘Rock Band’ store, but they’ll be put up for sale in other areas (I’m sure they’ll tell you where you can find ‘em!).

It’ll give local bands the chance to have a piece of the game pie while it’ll give Harmonix a way to build and expand both its platform and catalog without having to invest any extra time and effort into actually developing the tracks themselves.

Bottom line?  Inventiveness, initiative and inclusion … and who knows?  It could mean one serious upward thrust by local acts that are really wanting to get ahead in this world of rock …

Stay tuned … I’ll bring more on this story as it develops …

First of all: remember when I introduced you to the fab new UK band who’s really makin’ headlines around the music world? Many of you have already become fans of THE FORE — but now they’re in the running to become the best independent artist of 2009!
And you can vote for them! Just click this link and read how to do it!
Then, scroll down til you see the band (The Fore) and click! You’ll be given a chance to hear the music and vote (and, for you who haven’t done it yet, we hope you’ll become a fan!). That’s all there is to it! I’ll be repeating this in another post soon, btw … so be sure to tell yer friends …

Y’know, over the past few years, it’s looked as if rock has lost itself in noisier rhythm, heavy riffs and drum fills; it’s shouted, screamed, broke tempo, synthed itself and, largely, has become a bizarre emo imitation-rock. As records gave way to CDs, amps and PAs began surrendering to synthesizers and computerized loops, and “gigs” were “performed” by way of YouTubes and MySpaces, it would seem that true rock had been all but forgotten …

UNTIL …

Here it is, 2009.  In music stores, we’re starting to find turntables again … on televised talent showcases, we find more acts who’ve just put out a new 33 1/3 RPM record instead of CD …

in studios, more bands are pluggin’ into PAs and amps rather than a computer …

written, hard-copy pubs are coming back, highlighting the return of rock rather than teched-out, overlooped stuff!

Rolling Stone and USA Today have both articled that today’s teen would rather hear the Sixties-style music than the metal, alt, synth, etc.

THE FORE’s popularity is spreading like wildfire! Their music is not only raw, original rock in the vein of their FOREfathers, but they’ve paid their dues in much the same way as the Beatles and other acts of the period! The biggest similarity, though, is that these lads have come up in the same way; gigging wherever they can (whether on High Street in London, The Cavern in Liverpool or in front of thousands at festivals or other shows), and actually absorbing the same energy that the earlier bands had! And they’re getting the attention of A&R reps for large record labels now!

What I’m saying is that the best of rock-n-roll is returning to mainstream big time!! And, just as the original rock soothed the worries and sadness after November 22, 1963, this time it’s soothing the same for a world needing relief from war worries, recessions, violence, etc.

And I’ve got a feelin’ that, this time, it’s gonna stay in the FOREfront of music for a lonnnnnnng, lonnnnnnng time to come!!

Y’know, we’ve talked a lot about how to start a rock band, get its first gigs and into the ears of those who can help move it forward.

But there’s one thing that every band should do … and that’s make the act non-offensive in its presentation.  Make your band and music acceptable to fans in general, and you’ll have very little problem growing one helluva fan-base (which, btw, buys the CDs, attends paying concerts, etc.).

But, for the sake of “getting noticed”, some will take the opposite (read: dumb) approach.  For example:  there are a few bands on a limited (very limited) circuit that have the “F-word” in their names. 

While they might think it’s radical or sends a statement, don’t kid yourself:  They’re doing it because it’s the only way they can get noticed!  Their sound’s just not that good to begin with!
And they seem to forget the number of legal issues surrounding the use of their “name”, which include various decency and incitement ordinances.
In other words, the sound you’re hearing from their sets isn’t a snare’s rimshot … it’s the sound of them shooting themselves in their musical feet!

They won’t be heard on radio; most TV gigs will be out-of-the-question; and larger venue managers will, for the most part, avoid them like the plague!

Remember … whatever you begin to play now, the way you carry that act onstage, even down to the band name you choose … can typecast you, not only now but all through your entire musical career!

Michael Jackson’s death yesterday has brought a looming question to thousands of fans who’d already bought tickets to his O2 This Is It shows:

Are we gonna get a refund?

So far, the answer is yes … “in due course”, according to AEG Live, who was sponsoring the gigs.

As with the rest of the world, the suits-behind-the-show are still in shock after learning of the self-proclaimed “King of Pop’s” demise and, with everything else to be handled about the eternal cancellation, they’re just not ready to handle the heavy refund load.

At present, there’s $82 million to be refunded off 750,000 ticket sales. It’s one of the biggest refund efforts in the history of the concert industry, and one concert executive said it’s also the “biggest mess in the history of our business.”

Ticketmaster’s customer service line played a recorded message advising customers to “await communication” from the company regarding refunds.

It continued: “We understand this is an upsetting time for all Michael Jackson fans and we want to thank you for your patience in this matter.”

And secondary ticket service Seatwave also told fans that they’d get a full refund.

“We are all saddened by the news of Michael Jackson’s death,” said CEO and founder Joe Cohen in a statement.
“All customers who purchased tickets for his O2 shows from Seatwave are covered by our TicketCover guarantee and will get a full refund.
Full information on how to do this is on our Web site at www.seatwave.com. We advise customers to use the Web site rather than our phone lines to obtain this information.”

Look … the world needs to take time to mourn Michael’s passing, as we’d need if we’d lost a loved one.  After all, he was a member of the rock family!

Paperwork (and ticket refunds) can come when that’s done.  Agreed?? …

Sir Paul McCartney — who’s due to play at the opening of Citi Field (the new home of the NY Mets) has added a third concert set for Tuesday, 21 July. The first two shows (on 17 & 18 July) sold out in just under five minutes!

Tickets for the additional show are on sale now, exclusively online at www.507TIXX.com or by phone at 718-507-TIXX. I’m told that all performances will be held rain or shine!

Of course, the gigs will feature classics from Macca’s extensive catalog, including Beatles, Wings and his solo career hits. He’ll also include selections from his most recent album, Electric Arguments, released under his alias of The Fireman.

These shows are gonna mark the latest in a series of shows that link the former Beatle with NYC and the home of the Mets. Beginning with The Beatles’ legendary appearance at the opening of Shea Stadium in 1965 to his special appearance at Billy Joel’s “Last Play at Shea” show that closed the stadium last year, Sir Paul’s summer shows at Citi Field will once again mark a momentous occasion in the history of New York — and for rock n’ roll itself.

Okay … that’s it for now, but stay tuned … there’s more to come in less than 24!
See ya on the flip side ….

It was a helluva band …

The year was 1966. I’d been a guitarist for about three years, and had a decent set of pipes — not like today, where my voice sounds like the mating call for bullfrogs! (Awww, it comes with age … and a lot of voicework [I've been a DJ and am now freelancing in voiceovers, as well as a lot of presswork for The Fore and rock journalism]).
My group was called Hy-Que (named — so help me — after a toy monkey that had limited “intelligence” when ya wound him up [the exact pic's on the right]. Today, I think they’re called “Republicans”), and Walt, Mick, Olin, Jimmy and I had a solid following throughout Charlotte (in fact, through the border towns of South Carolina as well).
We played various local gigs, and later, when I landed a job with The Panasonics as lead vocalist (they said I sounded like John Lennon. Or maybe it was Jack Lemmon. I don’t remember …), we got better gigs on the basis of the group I’d been with before.
Though we never cut a record deal or anything, the fact that so many kids would come out and dance at our gigs and have a good, clean time more than made up for it.
Some of our fans called it “The Hy-Que Effect”. And it felt good …

But it brings up a big question:

What’s HAPPENED to the fans of music these days? I mean, it seems like today’s rock neither has the staying power nor the excitement of our generation’s.
Usedta be that, whenever a record by The Beatles, Searchers, Stones or (yes, even) DC5 would hit the stands, kids would fall all over themselves to get it (either that or they were just clumsy …). If the bands appeared on Sullivan or Shindig, teens would be glued to the tube!

I dunno … maybe there’s just too much access these days: Ipods, YouTubes, ThemSomethings or whatever, along with the internet exposure and CDs being churned out without promoted singles might have something to do with it.
Or maybe it’s just too easy to get attention these days. Back then (and especially with the Invasion groups) you had to gain your fanbase through working small clubs, church functions, parties … wherever you could. When the apprenticeship led to headlining, you had a strong fanbase (PS This is exactly how The Fore is doing it today!!)
But largely, in 2009, it’s instant exposure …

Whatever the case, it’s good to know that our music’s comin’ back into big-time play now. Whether it’s from the Merseyside or London, Redondo Beach or Boston, the sounds are experiencing a resurgence!
I just wish there was a way to rekindle the teen fire we had back then …

Anyway, lemme close up this little “memory and wishbox” here, ’cause it’s about that time: 11 PM Eastern, 4 AM London, 3:00 in the Morning wherever Paul Simon is, and still Sleepless in Seattle.
In other words, time for this Relic to catch a sandwich, a little more work, then take it down for a few dozen zzzzz’s!
Now, if you wanna keep up with the latest buzz(es) in rock, check out my main site at Doc Rock Online!
So, until next time, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

NOTE: This is something The Relic has known and researched for years, but has only NOW been released publicly by indie sources about John, Paul, George and Ringo:

It’s been recently discovered that specific decibel levels can, in fact, spark a healing mechanism within the body chemistry that can help in various neurological and, at times, physical malfunctions. I believe it’s 25-50 Hz (if I’m wrong, I’ll update in the next post. My notes are at my other office).

But (now, get this!) the music of the early Beatles (including jumpers like Twist and Shout, Little Child, Can’t Buy Me Love, Bad Boy and others) are immensely therapeutic! (Later on, one of Macca’s comps with Wings held the distinction of inspiring people through rough emotional rides. The song? With A Little Luck.)

Anyway, listening to these songs at the recommended decibel level has been found to actually help promote healing! Besides that, they’re pretty damn good, don’tchathink?!? Take that, you televangelists-who-damned-the-Fab-Four-years-ago!! NYAH!

NOW … LOOK AT THE PIC: Y’know, it seemed everybody had his or her fave Beatle in the early days. But it was more than just “Paul is dreeeeeeeeeammy!” or “Oh, Ringo’s so kyuuuuuuuuute!!”
There’s actually a reason why we dug these guys (other than their music)!
For example, Paul was the romantic, cuddly one. Most who were romantics-at-heart wanted him (or, for the guys, to be like him)!
Then there was George. Serious, quiet, thoughtful, but witty. He fit the bill of those who were grade-conscious, serious and with a look-before-ya-leap attitude.
Ringo? Underdog, innocent, sortuva “backseat driver”. The guys (especially) who said Ringo was their fave were the ones who were like that in everyday life!

We all want role models of some type … and they provided …
waitaminnit! Didn’t I, uh, forget someone??? I mean, there were … 4 of them, as I recall:

John Lennon. Brash. Cocky. Witty. Daring. Now, this guy was the epitome of the words “mover and shaker” (and I don’t mean in just his music!). But every young teenaged male who envisioned himself as a “butt-kicker” idolized John!! He inspired courage and audacity, just as Paul inspired romanticism, George a philosophical slant and Ringo a quiet resignation.

So, to see the Beatles individually, we see the influence on a great cross-section of non-performing, teenaged male fans in their formative years! And, to improve their lot, they began studying the other three Liverpudlian wonders — and would attempt to copy their characters!

Anyway, so much for this post! It’s still kinda early, so I’m headin’ for McD’s for a burger (ANYBODY WANT ANYTHINGGGG??). B back in just a bit. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

For awhile now — well, on and off, anyway — we’ve talked about how you can start a new band. Not only have we walked through the first gigs, but we’ve gotten tips on how to make the band more successful.

But there’s one guaranteed way to be sure your band becomes a hit with the fans: It’s called the “WTF” method (and it’s about time we gave those initials to something decent, right?):

It means WATCH THE FANS!

Y’see, when you’re onstage before a live audience, you never know exactly which songs will fire up the fans. Obviously, if you’re good, they’ll listen, dance, holler or whatever.
But, if ya really wanna know how to get your band from “just another musical group” to favorite,

WATCH THEIR EXPRESSIONS!

While performing, each member can focus on separate sections of the crowd. As you go through your set, look at their faces … watch their movements.
If you see excitement, movement or other animation that shows they’re into the song, then you’ve got at least one number that you can tailor your sound and stage work by!

But if they seem too interested in talking to others, seem oblivious or even bored, then wipe the number from your set — at least until you can “fine-tune” it to bring the crowd to its feet!

Now, about the winning numbers (no, not lottery. I’m talkin’ about the set!): Have someone make a note of those songs and the fans’ reaction. Then, when you’re back into rehearsal or songwriting, work out new numbers (both fast and slow) that’ll most likely get the same response!

By this “trial-and-error” method, you can build a set — and a reputation — that’s dynamite!

This is just a friendly reminder to tune in to the ArtistFirst Radio Network today at 12 Noon EST (New York Time) for a full hour of music and live interviews with THE FORE!

Following this brief announcement, you’ll find out HOW to tune in (it’s right here, on the web!).
Get ready for some serious rockin’ enjoyment!

ATTENTION: ROCK MUSIC LOVERS EVERYWHERE:

The fab UK band THE FORE will be debuting their new CD “Run and Hide” on the ArtistFirst World Radio Network, SATURDAY April 11th at 12 Noon New York Time (EST).
To tune-in on your PC: - Click this link to listen: http://wms.artistfirst.fastserv.com/artistfirst or visit www.artistfirst.com

E-mail us during the show for free CD and T-shirt giveaways!

Grooooooooovy, mannnn … we made it to the psych-O-del-ic years!

Now, when you cats hear about the drugs, bugs, mugs and hugs goin’ down at Haight-Ashbury (for you squares who aren’t “into” this bag, it’s a district in San Francisco), remember that, while it was a trip during the bonzo years, it was also a big anti-hype by the Establishment!

Yeah, the dope was a bummer; it messed it up for the rest of us. (Dude, you gotta stay away from that junk!)  But, you gotta admit, some heavy modern art, threads — and music — came out of it.
See, by ‘67, the kids were uptight about what was going on in Vietnam. They were down on the racial prejudice that was hurting their black brothers and sisters. They were turned off by the way the Establishment looked down on the young people of the day.
Man, all they wanted — was peace! And they were willing to do or take whatever they thought they had to in order to get that peace in their lives. Hey — who knows? Maybe — just maybe a nation would get the idea. Suppose they gave a war and nobody came??

They had some groovy acts doin’  their thing in the district: The Beau Brummels, Blue Cheer (Summertime Blues), Canned Heat (Goin’ Up Country; (Back) On The Road Again), the Doors, Grateful Dead (WHO?!? Neverheardof’em! Lol), and, of course, Janis (do I really NEED to give her last name?).

Actually, Creedence Clearwater Revival started their Haight stint as The Golliwogs (Fight Fire) before changing their name and adopting a new bayou sound. That drew the Fogerty brothers (John and Tom — the latter now deceased), Cook and Clifford away from the district and into the big-time.

Unlike Pearl — er, Janis — who was a gutsy, howling blues mama, and the Dead, who were digging the lucys (hallucinations) and free-jam setup, Creedence Clearwater Revival was radio-ready! They had a live-wire style onstage, and could bridge just about any genre gap: soul (Heard It Through The Grapevine), country (Cottonfields), folk-rock (Proud Mary), protest (Fortunate Son), and pure-tee rock-and-roll (Travelin’ Band).

Though they had their fights (mostly with leader John), their sound was awesome and has been copied (Hollies’ Long Black Woman, produced by John’s brother, Bob Fogerty), songs covered (Tina Turner’s powerful Proud Mary), and reviewed more times than anyone could count. It’s one that’ll last long after the last member’s gone.

Now, none of these acts ever forgot their roots. Even Doug and Stu, who are now in Creedence Clearwater Revisited, borne out of a Fogerty fight, will tell you that.

Well, that’s all for this session. Til next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see you on the flip side …

Y’know, over the past month or so, we’ve talked about how to start a good rock band — and how to get it onstage with good results!
One of the best examples of “how to do it right” comes from the great UK band, THE FORE.

On Sunday, the lads (Spencer Hannabuss, bass/vox; Andrew McCulloch, rhythm; Matt Hardy, lead/vox and new drummer Nathan Persad, also on vocals) played in Market Square in Bromley, Kent. The results were fabulous!

Now, a marketplace isn’t exactly the O2 Arena (though the guys play some large venues as well …), but they remember the first rule of any band:  Play wherever you’ll find an audience. These lads don’t let “ego” rule, or say “Naaaah … it’s too small” when a gig opportunity comes open.
You see, anywhere you play brings two necessary benefits to your band:  Exposure and fan contact! These are gonna be vital to your growth — and it’s something you should always strive for!

Another point:  Stay focused when you’re onstage!  When you’re playing, listen to your instrument! Don’t get so caught up in the fact that you’re onstage that you don’t keep in control of your music.

Matt Hardy is one of the most prolific and studied young guitarists in the UK.  He’s constantly in touch with his guitar licks, all the while providing a vital part of the band’s onstage excitement!
Yes, both can be done at the same time!  It takes two words:  confidence and control. Showing both of those, while being enthused about your music, will take you much farther than you think!

Now, the gig also served as the debut of their new drummer, Nathan Persad. While, on occasion, you might have a new member, it’s always good to intro him or her to the audience before ya play.
But there’s no need to showcase the newbie unless a specific song calls for it.  Better to let that person “blend into” the sound, because, again, you’re promoting your act as a whole.

One more point: Always … always … be “fan-friendly”.  In the pic to your left, you see The Fore posing with some French fans who came to enjoy the show.
There’s an old saying that goes:  Remember who brought you to the dance. These are the people who come to your shows, who buy your CDs, recommend you to others, and otherwise give you some performing “clout”, as it were.
Don’t ever let them down!

Okay … we’re gonna continue this a bit later down the road.  In less than 24, we’re goin’ on an … Invasion! So stay tuned, and …

I’ll see ya on the flip side!