Category Archives: op-ed

10 Takeaways from the ForbesBLK Summit for Your Creative Journey

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Earlier this week, I had the honor and privilege of attending the 2024 ForbesBLK Summit in Atlanta. A community fostered by one of the most trusted business media outlets on Earth, ForbesBLK exists to champion a global community of Black entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders and creators that are driving systematic change in business, culture and society.

A highlight of this year’s Summit was a day’s worth of panels and interviews with leaders in business, government, healthcare and, of course, entertainment. I sat in the audience all day, furiously scribbling notes and takeaways from the world-class professionals before me. As it turns out, I had more than enough to bring home to share with you, UnderDogs.

As I combed through my notes this week, I found 10 key takeaways that every creative entrepreneur — musician or otherwise — would be wise to keep in mind. Please know that these items merely scratch the surface of the value shared from the stage at The Eastern on Monday. Alas, 10 is a nice round number, and I want to leave you plenty of time to take action on the inspiration you are about to receive.

Ready? Awaaaaay we go!

First of all, everybody on that stage was on a mission.

Regardless of their particular areas of expertise, every single thought leader featured at this year’s ForbesBLK Summit had one thing in common: they were clear on their values, mission, and vision. They understood the challenges in their sector, and showcased a clear understanding of how addressing these challenges will make the world a better place.

Throughout the day, these leaders were effective in their messaging by communicating the experiences and perspectives driving them toward purpose. More than any individual accolade, the presenters’ collective ability to communicate from a genuine place is what resonated with the audience.

As we build our creative platforms, this is an important lesson to keep close to our hearts: talent is certainly important, but the ways we use our talents — and the messages we spread through them — will ultimately determine our impact and legacy.

Your network defines your net worth.

You’ve almost certainly heard this one before, right?

Here’s what I observed about the network brought together during this year’s ForbesBLK Summit: the room was full of solution-minded business professionals. In addition, every conversation I had or observed throughout the Summit was focused on finding ways to collaborate, and provide greater value to the world.

There is a correlation behind this collaborative, focused, purpose-driven mindset and success. During my visit to Atlanta, it was evident that those who have mastered this mindset are also in a position to inspire, educate, and serve in greater numbers.

Your network should share your vision, too.

Fantasia Taylor — singer, actress, and 2004 American Idol winner — was, in my opinion, one of the most compelling individuals to grace the stage on Monday. I could probably write a whole article on her wisdom alone — from the ways she has re-defined her relationship with fear, to her differentiation between the pursuits of success and purpose.

However — in the spirit of continuing from my previous takeaway — I offer you another intriguing point offered by the newly-minted Hollywood Walk of Fame honoree.

“Make sure the people you bring in reflect who you are.”

As you establish your platform’s values, mission, and vision, keep in mind that you are also developing an organization in need of a consistent culture. Those who become a core part of your ecosystem must believe in your vision, share a similar mission, and come from a similar set of values. If any of these areas conflict, friction may arise, and your message may get lost in the shuffle.

Greatness is a habit.

Legendary hip hop producer and Atlanta native Jermaine Dupri closed out the afternoon’s program. As with Fantasia, there was so much wisdom in his fireside chat with Forbes Senior Writer & Editor Jabari Young, that it deserves its own analysis.

One of the So So Def architect’s most striking points, however, was this:

“Great artists don’t stop trying to be great.”

Yes, there is a difference between being great, and being “good enough.” Those who settle for “good” — and who don’t go the extra mile — may see moderate, if fleeting, success. However, those who are consistently looking for ways to improve their skills, systems, and processes are those who endure, adapt, and evolve. Especially in our ever-changing industry, greatness is the standard for which we all must strive.

That goes for the people around you, too.

With all of that said, nobody’s perfect, and we all need a push sometimes. Sometimes, we’re on the receiving end. Sometimes, we’re the ones giving it.

Gospel legend Kirk Franklin — another super-inspiring, worthy-of-his-own-article fireside chat participant — had this to say, when it comes to setting the tone for those around you…

“Push people and challenge people to be the greatness that they are.”

Not only must we hold those around us to the highest standards, but we must keep in mind why we’re doing it. We’ve already seen their greatness; that’s why they’re riding with us in the first place. Sometimes, they just need a reminder that it’s been inside of them this entire time.

And, if you ever find yourself on the receiving end of that push, leave your ego at the door. It’s for the greater good.

Become a student of your craft — in every way.

Staying in the entertainment industry, we were also treated to a chat with 9-time NBA All-Star and 2016-17 league MVP, Russell Westbrook. As an entrepreneur, Westbrook focuses on ways to uplift underserved and underprivileged communities.

To Russ, that means understanding the most effective ways to serve — and knowing as many details as possible about how to do it.

“Learn the business, and learn everything the right way.”

For the sake of artistry, it can be tempting for artists to downplay (or even ignore) the finer details of business. However, these details — yes, even the unsexy ones — are essential to anybody looking to build their platform into one that is transformative. Understanding the necessary inner workings of your own creative enterprise — and the roles and responsibilities contained therein — will help you set clear expectations, communicate more effectively, and know what to look for when adding to your team.

Not to mention, doing everything the right way, the first time, will save you the headache of having to clean up a mess later on.

Understand what *you* bring to the table.

Christina Lewis is the founder of Beatrice Advisors, an independent, woman and minority-owned multi-family investment firm. When asked about an important lesson she’s learned along her journey, she said the following:

“You have to find your edge.”

As musicians, how do we escape the trap of being just another “singer-songwriter from My Town, USA” in an oversaturated market? Find exactly what is unique to you — within your craft, your mission, or the way you approach both — and lead with it.

Figuring out your “edge” takes work.

In a world full of social media “gurus” telling us to “be authentic,” it can be difficult to know what authenticity is.

The answer lies within. Cam Kirk — photographer and videographer at the Mike WiLL Made-It Collective — emphasized that authenticity means something different for each of us.

“You’ve got to do the work to find out who you are.”

That means doing some digging — and, at certain points, facing your truth is going to get uncomfortable. The result, however, is a person who will resonate with your true audience; someone who is fearlessly, unapologetically you.

You can’t fake it, either.

During the same panel, Lola Banjo — founder and creative director at Silver & Riley — made sure to point out that there are consequences when we don’t uncover our unique gifts and perspectives.

“Your followers see through it.”

In some cases, you may see fleeting success while chasing trends or trying to “go viral.” However, sustained success and impact comes not from these moments, but from building a true connection with those who share your values, and developing ways to keep them engaged. You are who you are — and all of the filters and hashtags in the world won’t hide it!

So, stand on that truth — even when it’s uncomfortable.

To conclude our time together today, let’s share in some wisdom from longtime Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams:

“Why would we abandon our principles when someone who doesn’t believe in those principles mocks them?”

As a leader in our modern political climate, Rep. Abrams is certainly no stranger to people combating her views. However, this lesson stretches far beyond our political system, and into any area of life.

As someone building a public-facing creative platform, you aren’t going to be everyone’s cup of tea. People are going to disagree with your views, criticize your abilities, and they may even be rude in the process. These are the times when you need to stand even stronger in your convictions, and understand the purpose your art is here to serve.

Not everyone will get it. That’s OK. Hold steady, and keep pressing ahead. Those who get it will still love you.

Which takeaway is your favorite? Were you there, and have a different one you’d like to share? Leave a comment!

Wednesday Wisdom: How to (Finally) Do the Thing

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How many times have you wanted to do something, or wanted to chase after a big dream you’ve had, but then you just…didn’t?

Maybe fear was holding you back. Or maybe you were battling procrastination. Maybe you were overthinking yourself right out of the whole thing. Maybe this is something you’re battling right now.

It can be tough to break out of a cycle of overthinking, and feeling like everything has to be perfect before you start doing what you want to do. It can be tough to break out of that fear. But you’ll never get anywhere if you keep getting stuck in the same place.

Sometimes it’s hard to just do the thing.

Below are some of my best tips for getting started so you can finally check that thing off your list.

Ask yourself what you’re most hesitant about

Sometimes when we can’t do the thing it’s because we start overthinking. As a result, a bunch of what-if scenarios might pop up in our heads, further preventing us from moving forward.

Thoughts like “What if I fail?” or “What if I’m making a mistake?” can be pretty daunting, and self-doubt can start taking over quickly. Maybe you find that imposter syndrome is rearing its ugly head and it’s convincing you that you’re neither capable nor worthy of achieving your dreams. (More on how to combat imposter syndrome here).

If fears like these are holding you back from starting, take the time to reflect on what you think will happen if you actually do the thing you want to do. Get honest with yourself. Write it all out. Feel all the feelings.

Sometimes just acknowledging our fears is exactly what we need to do in order to realize that, sometimes, they really aren’t as big as they might seem. Sometimes just acknowledging our fears removes the fear itself and you can get moving in the right direction again.

Take one small step forward…

When we feel really stuck, and like we can’t get going, sometimes it’s actually because we’re feeling overwhelmed. 

That thing you want to do? Maybe it seems huge and impossible to you right now, but maybe it will seem more achievable if you break it down into smaller pieces.

Of course, it’s super easy to feel overwhelmed when we’re thinking about climbing a mountain instead of climbing two steps up a staircase, right? So, is there something you can do right now that can be that first step you need to get started? 

Are you dreaming of opening a business but can’t even begin to fathom how exactly you’re going to make that happen? Maybe your first step is coming up with your business name. Have you always wanted to write a song but never wrote one before? Find a local writer’s round and get your feet wet that way.

When we can break down our biggest dreams into smaller, achievable goals, and then we achieve one of those goals, it gives us an important sense of accomplishment and fills us with the excitement that’s going to help us to keep moving forward.

Or… take a step back

Sometimes we get so deeply involved and invested in something that we start losing perspective. Small obstacles might start becoming bigger in our minds than they are in reality, and we might start believing that they’re impossible to overcome. Basically, we start psyching ourselves out. Big time. 

If you’ve been thinking and thinking and thinking about the thing you’re thinking about doing, take a break and do something different. Get out of your head! Take a walk, watch a movie, go out to dinner with a friend. Anything. It will give your mind a much-needed breather, allowing you to refocus.

Meditate

Meditation is most commonly known as a coping method for stress and anxiety, but it can also be an important tool when it comes to accomplishing our goals and chasing after our greatest dreams.

Taking a moment to ground ourselves in the present moment can help shift our perspective and see that thing we want to do in a different way. Maybe you’ll realize you were approaching it all wrong and you’ll discover a new road to take that will allow you to achieve your goal even faster.

Maybe you’ll realize that everything happens at the time it’s meant to happen.

Maybe you’ll find a new sense of patience that will help you keep chugging along, rediscovering the drive within you to make your dream come true.

It’s natural to feel stuck and overwhelmed, but when there are things you want to do, sometimes it’s difficult to get them done. Don’t let a little hesitation or setback get in your way, because there’s no worse regret in life than not trying. You’ll be so glad you did.

Four Ways for Gig Workers to Ensure They Get Paid

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If you’re an independent musician, you’re self-employed. If you’re self-employed, there’s an outstanding chance that you’ve spent some time cobbling together freelance gigs.

I know, because I’ve been there. I took “the leap” for good at the start of 2021, and it has taught me everything I needed to know about business and life.

On the business end, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned since taking the leap — from 9-to-5er, to freelancer, to entrepreneur — is this.

The success of your business depends largely on the systems you put in place.

In the beginning, there may be a natural excitement as gigs start coming to fruition. You may be so excited to focus on the projects themselves that you forget — or worse, neglect to — build in the back-end support needed to ensure your long-term sustainability among the self-employed.

Here are four essential components to ensure that your growing business remains protected and successful.

Contracts

Simply put, a gig worker working without a contract is asking for trouble. A good contract will clearly lay out the scope of the project, including the work to be performed, and will help you establish timelines and project rates. As a legally binding document, a contract will also minimize the possibility of non-payment or late payment. Once signed, the client agrees to pay the specified amount for the services outlined therein, and you agree to provide those services.

In short, a contract holds everyone accountable. It gives you a clear blueprint of the task at hand, while ensuring that the client also holds up their end of the bargain. This LinkedIn newsletter features a much deeper dive into the importance of contracts.

Deposits

You’re a busy creative, and your time is valuable. So, let’s make 2024 the year that value is reflected.

Asking for a partial deposit upfront adds another layer of protection for you and your business. A deposit shows a commitment on behalf of the client to pay for services rendered, and it solidifies your commitment to commence work on the project outlined in your contract.

The initial deposit amount is up to you. In my experience, it is most common to charge a deposit amounting to 50% of the total project cost, with the remaining balance due at the time of completion.

Non-payment policies

Life is easier when we can pay our bills on time. As a freelancer, there’s a good chance that you depend on the income from your clients to make sure that happens. If their payments are late, your bills are late. And, if your bills are late, you may be assessed a late fee. Wait long enough, and service may be suspended or discontinued altogether.

Just as the electric company expects timely payment for services rendered, so should you. Be sure to develop and include policies surrounding late fees, suspensions, and cancellations in your contracts. Hopefully, you’ll never have to enforce those policies, but things happen, and it’s best to be prepared for when they do.

Not to mention, the best way to prevent bad behavior is to pair it with a consequence.

A payment system

How are you collecting payments?

While your favorite cash app may seem good enough for now, pause to consider whether it has everything you need to truly run a business. You’ll want to have a system in place to track invoices, payments, customers, revenue, and more. The more parts of this process you can automate, the better; not to mention, having complete, easy-to-understand records will make your life monumentally easier come tax season (which is just around the corner!).

Personally, I use Square, which allows me to create invoices, customer profiles, specific products, and more. Square also provides me the ability to send invoice reminders, establish multiple payment options, and set up recurring payments. Also, its reporting functions break down everything I need to know to file this spring. There is a small fee that is taken out of each payment received, but it’s a fair trade for the convenience and peace of mind of having a system in place.

Wednesday Wisdom: Tips for Surviving the Holidays

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Although Thanksgiving is already behind us — can you even believe it? — December is already speeding by, as we head into the winter holidays and the new year.

It’s a chaotic time full of travel, gatherings with family and friends, work events, last minute shows, and more — and it can seem like our list of obligations has no end in sight. 

As we all know, this is a stressful time of year for anybody. For those in the music industry, the last few months of the year can pile on even more pressure.

If you’re feeling completely overwhelmed, in a haze, and you find yourself wishing it was already January 2, you’re not alone. Here are my best tips for surviving the end of the year.

Prioritize

Prioritizing will be your best friend this time of year. Trust me. 

Everything can feel so important and urgent right now, but the truth is that there are some things that can wait until next year. Literally. 

Maybe you have to submit your new single to the distributor by tomorrow, but it’s hard to find the time to write that caption for the Instagram post. Or, maybe there’s an important family dinner you have to go to on Saturday, getting in the way of you designing the cover art for your new album. 

There are times when it’s actually more beneficial to push certain tasks off to a later date. I know, I know. That may sound completely insane to some (or maybe all) of you, but hear me out. For instance, maybe this year you wanted to start gardening, or you wanted to learn how to bake an apple pie so you could impress your family at Christmas dinner. Instead of squeezing these activities in before December 31, doesn’t it make more sense to tackle them when you’re not already drowning under a to-do list that’s a mile long, so you can enjoy them? Maybe you push off baking until March – that gives you plenty of time to perfect that pie so you can knock people’s socks off next Christmas!

Take the less urgent tasks off your plate for now. You will alleviate some of the pressure to not only make the holidays perfect for yourself and for those around you, but to make the end of the year perfect when it comes to your career.

If you have a routine, try to stick to it

Some people thrive in a routine, while others don’t. If you’re someone who absolutely needs a routine in order to get things done, try your best to stick to it right now. The holidays and the end of the year are chaotic enough, and if you get thrown out of your usual schedule, it can make it even more difficult to do what you need to do.

If you’re starting to feel unfocused because the demands of December are starting to pull you in different directions (and away from your regular routine), resist the urge to let it go completely until after New Year’s.

Of course, there are only so many hours in a day, so it may not be possible for you to get everything done that you’d like (that’s where prioritizing is going to come in handy!), but at least try to maintain the pieces of your day that are most important to you. For example, if you exercise every day at 5 p.m., keep doing it. If you work on your social media on Mondays and Fridays at 2 p.m., keep doing it. If you read every night before bed, keep doing it.

Although these may seem like insignificant practices, continuing to honor them as part of your daily schedule will help you to better cope with the chaos that may be swirling around you, and keep you fortified throughout the season.

Start planning for next year

December can also bring anxiety about what awaits us in the year to come. To help alleviate some of that apprehension of the unknown, why not start making a plan now?

What are the goals you’d like to achieve next year? Do you want to form relationships with certain people in your industry? Do you want to make a new album? Do you want to film your first music video? Do you want to leave your tedious full-time job to finally make a career out of your side hustle? Get it out of your head, and put it down on paper. 

If you’re already a planner, this tip will probably find you in your glory. If you’re not already a planner (which is totally valid), give this a try.

Take time for yourself

The end of the year does not only bring career stress; it can also stir up some pretty heavy emotions that can make it difficult, and perhaps even painful, to make it through the season. 

We may be reminded of those who are no longer with us, and find ourselves mourning how things used to be in the face of devastating change. 

And so, it is during these times especially that taking care of yourself should be of the utmost importance. This can mean giving yourself a 20-minute break to take a walk, taking the time to make yourself a healthy meal, planning a dinner date with a friend, or even going to sleep early. 

We need time to rest so we can perform at our best. If we’re not carving out those moments – no matter how small – to nourish ourselves in mind, body, and spirit, we’re doing ourselves a huge disservice, by preventing ourselves from being able to enjoy the present moment and continue moving ahead successfully.

In the end, the holiday season is all about enjoying – enjoying the company of the people we love, enjoying good food, and, hopefully, enjoying some well-deserved time off. So, although it might feel uncomfortable to momentarily let some things slide, it’s totally OK to put some not-so-urgent tasks on the back burner. It’s more than OK to take care of ourselves so we can not only survive, but conquer, this time of year triumphantly with our sights set on all the possibilities that 2024 holds. 

Coach’s Corner: The Moment That Sparked a Comeback

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Pictured: The sun setting behind the Rocky Mountains from the Gaylord Rocky Mountain Resort (Denver, CO).

I need to tell you about my trip to Denver a couple weekends ago.

I was in town to attend the Achieve Systems BizExplosion Conference. Admittedly, I was looking to shake up my day-to-day, and get some perspective on the direction of this platform — which, as you may remember, recently took a brief, yet thorough detour away from being Underground Music Collective.

On Thursday, October 19, I attended the conference’s welcome reception. Upon entering, I sensed pretty much immediately that this was a different room than the ones to which I had become so accustomed. You had speakers, coaches, and entrepreneurs who had reached a levels of scalable, sustainable success that I, plucky UnderDog that I am, still aspire to reach.

That night — before the conference even officially kicked off — I found myself on the receiving end a ton of valuable feedback about the concept, its niche, and ways that it could be better executed. I heard people’s intrigue around the notion of a music industry-centric platform — and what it could do, if properly built, for independent artists everywhere. I learned so much that night (and throughout the ensuing weekend) about exactly how to properly build it, that I’m still combing through and applying the lessons.

And, to be honest, it all felt a bit overwhelming at first.

I left the reception at about 12:30 a.m. when I caught an Uber back to my Airbnb. I explained to my driver, Mateo, that I was in town to get educated about my business, and I was receiving more of an education than I ever could have expected. I also expressed a bit of self-doubt as I digested the lessons, and wondered what it would take to meaningfully level up from this experience once it was finished.

Mateo then told me he was about to restart the song playing in the car. He wanted me to listen…

That song is “Mirror (You Ain’t Know)” by Brian Hyppolite ft. Nelse… and these words were exactly what I needed to hear in that moment, from the opening refrain.

“Oh, you had it twisted?

Oh, you didn’t know that you was gifted?

You ain’t know that stuff you went through just set you up for winning?

You ain’t know that you was chosen?

You ain’t know that you was golden?

You ain’t know you was important, huh?

You ain’t know you had a purpose

Much bigger than anything you ever considered?

Well, I’ma be your mirror
So you can see it clearer…“

When we step out of our comfort zones, our minds can play tricks on us. The stories we’ve internalized can delude us into believing that we aren’t worthy, or ready, or “good enough.” These stories will do everything they can to pull us from our purpose, or fool us into thinking another lane is best for us.

That night, the cards of my imposter syndrome were laid out on the table. However, as I listened to “Mirror (You Ain’t Know)” I realized that I — and not the stories — hold the winning hand.

That moment — and the entire experience of that weekend — helped me reconnect with my mission and vision for this platform. We’re here to build something of impact for independent artists, and connect them to the world of entrepreneurship so that they can built their platforms — and lives — regardless of whether they ever receive traditional music industry approval.

In that moment, it dawned on me that there was no better way to do that than to #GoUnderground.

That’s why we’re back as Underground Music Collective. And frankly, it feels damn good to be walking in this purpose again.

Thanks for being here, and stay tuned.

Wednesday Wisdom: What to Do When You’re Feeling Uninspired

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Anyone who creates regularly knows that creativity ebbs and flows, and inspiration is constantly found and lost.

It’s great when you’re hitting your stride and you can’t keep up with all the great ideas that are coming to you, pushing you forward as you continue working towards your goals. But, what happens when the well from which you draw your best ideas runs dry?

It happens. I’ve been there. When it seems like there’s no inspiration to be found anywhere, it can be hard to create anything, and it can feel like you’ll never be able to produce anything worthwhile again.

But, I’ll tell you a secret: that inspiration that so quickly (and sometimes dramatically) disappeared into thin air always comes back. Always.

If you’re desperate to fill your cup again, here are some tips for unearthing the inspiration you need, in order to get back to doing what you do best.

Watch a new movie

Watching a movie is like escaping into a different world, isn’t it?

So, what better way to give your brain a much-deserved break, than by entering a world you’ve never been to before and watching a new movie?

This can be a film in your favorite genre or, if you want to really push the limits of your comfort zone, you can choose something in a genre that you’ve never dared to explore before. (For example, if you usually watch rom-coms, try a thriller, or vice versa).

It can be so easy to get stuck in a routine, and when you find something you love, it can be really easy to continue . After a while, though, doing the same thing over and over again can result in boredom, which can lead you to hit those dreaded kinks in your creative process, because your brain isn’t absorbing anything new.

Sometimes, your mind just needs a simple switch of the old gears to unkink that chain. Watching a new movie can be one of the easiest ways to do that.

Read a book

Reading is a powerful tool to have in your arsenal. Besides the fact that it’s one of the greatest sources of learning and entertainment that humankind has to rely upon, it can also revive your vocabulary, expose you to different sentence structures, allow you to “meet” new people (i.e.; characters), and bring you to encounter new places and different themes with which you don’t have personal experience.

In short, if you’re a (song)writer, reading can do wonders for your writing and composition skills.

Personally, I’m not always able to get around to reading for fun as often as I’d like. But, I find that every time I do, I’m more inspired, feel more excited, and just have a better attitude toward writing in general.

Whether you’re writing a song or a musical, an advice column for fellow musicians, or keeping up your own blog, you will encounter moments when you’re too burnt out to string even one sentence together. And, when you’re writing regularly, this might be happening more often than you’d like. Stop forcing yourself to squeeze words out of an empty well, and read a chapter or two from a book. Any book, no matter if it’s fiction or non-fiction, or even a couple of magazine articles. Many times, it can be just what you need to get the juices flowing in the right direction again.

Observe the world around you

From songwriters, to authors, to filmmakers, so many creative minds have found their greatest inspiration when they’re observing everyday life.

If remote working has had you cooped up in the house for too long, take the time to venture out and go somewhere new. Go to the beach, the coffee shop on the corner, the new restaurant that just opened up downtown—anywhere that’s new to you.

Experiencing a new environment is extremely beneficial for our mental health and well-being. It breaks us out of the monotony which keeps us in an unproductive drought. And, you never know what snippets from conversations you’ll overhear, or interactions between strangers — or with strangers, if you’re an adventurous extrovert — that you’ll find. Just a simple phrase can spark an overflow of ideas.

When you get out and experience the world—when you get out and really live—that’s when the magic happens. So, search for and savor those moments that can reignite the fire within you. Those moments can lead you to your next big idea, whether it’s the subject of your next song, or the concept for a new album.

Take a shower

If you’re a fan of Stranger Things, you’ve learned a thing or two about sensory deprivation. However, you don’t have to immerse yourself in a scary water-filled tank to benefit from its effects.

In addition to being a nice break from the chaos of the day — not to mention, the constant bombardment of news and technology — a hot shower sometimes seems to hold the keys to the universe. Especially when you’re stuck in a rut.

The heat and the noise of the water rushing over you can be enough to separate yourself from the hectic madness of daily life. This may give your brain the space it needs to refocus and find the answers it’s looking for.

Heck, they even make waterproof notepads now. You can jot down those brilliant ideas that come to you while you’re washing your hair.

It’s great to have a never-ending flow of inspiration, but we all know that isn’t realistic. Unfortunately, the inspiration we need to produce our work can sometimes run away from us and go into hiding.

It won’t be lost forever, though. You just have to know where to look to find it again.

Key Strategies for Indie Artists to Protect Their Creative Works: Insights From a Legal Expert

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By Auntie Donna Brown, CEO of Always Resourceful LLC

In this article, we will explore the concept of intellectual property and its significance for indie artists. Put simply, “intellectual property” refers to creations of the human mind. Any indie artist who has ever created a unique work has produced “intellectual property,” also known as IP. The value of safeguarding an artist’s creativity goes without saying and can be priceless.

Let’s begin by discussing copyright, one of the tools used by indie artists to protect their intellectual property. However, it’s crucial to understand that copyright is not the only way to safeguard original works of art, which is a common misconception.

Protecting your creative works requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses copyright and trademark registration, patenting, trade secrets, active monitoring for infringements, and creating unique content. These elements can be strategically used together or separately to identify and distinguish your brand from others and potentially amplify your income through licensing and deals.

A Multi-Faceted Approach: Safeguarding Your Creative Works

Indie artists who invest time and energy in creating original work generally want to protect it. However, many may not realize that their work is intellectual property, and even fewer may have been taught how to leverage the IP they create to exponentially increase revenue by identifying multiple revenue sources. As a US IP lawyer with a unique background in strategic management, it is important to me that artists understand how to monetize, grow, and protect the value of the art they create, just as businesses understand the need to create multifaceted strategies to maximize revenue.

While many may be familiar with federal copyright protection, in this article, we will explore why federal trademark registration and an ongoing monitoring strategy for infringements can be equally important.

Let’s start with creating unique content. Educate yourself about intellectual property rights and equip yourself with the knowledge to maximize the value of your work and ensure it receives the recognition and respect it deserves.

Now, you might be wondering what all this means for you as an indie artist. Instead of overwhelming you with abstract legal phrases, let’s explore your options by following the journey of a hypothetical indie band named “The Night Lights,” led by our imaginary songwriter, Emma.

Let’s assume that after a couple of gigs, The Night Lights band has been well received by its audiences, and now Emma and the band are exploring potential opportunities and safeguarding against potential threats to the band. In a meeting after band practice, Emma calls everyone in to talk about the band’s decisions.

Emma’s heard of copyright as a tool to protect the band’s creative work, but recently Emma has heard of this thing called a federal trademark, and she is not certain how that works.

Luckily, Emma has an aunt who is also an intellectual property lawyer. Emma invites Auntie Donna Brown®️ to a Zoom meeting to discuss the band’s options with them.

Auntie Donna is the business strategist and IP attorney you never knew you needed. She shows up to support these creators and helps them understand how to use federal trademarks as a strategy to avoid leaving “any money on the table!” Okay, so there is not a real table in this hypothetical, but you see where I’m going with this. Auntie Donna Brown®️ spends the next hour consulting with the band, explaining the benefits of registering a few federal trademarks — how it is not just brand protection, but also a monetization strategy.

Trademark

By obtaining a federal trademark for their band name, “The Night Lights,” Emma and her bandmates establish exclusive rights to the use of that name in connection with their musical services. This trademark ensures that no one else can use a similar name, which could cause confusion in the marketplace.

Because the band has built a community and it has a known brand name, Auntie Donna points out to Emma that there is an additional monetization opportunity.

Licensing Merchandise

Emma and her bandmates can license their trademarked band name for use on merchandise such as t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and other apparel. They can collaborate with manufacturers and distributors to create high-quality products that showcase their band name prominently. Fans can proudly wear these merchandise items, helping to promote the band and create a sense of connection and community among their fan base.

Posters and Artwork

The band can license their trademarked band name for use on posters, album covers, and other promotional artwork. This allows them to create visually appealing designs incorporating their band name, album titles, and song lyrics. Fans can purchase these posters and artwork to decorate their spaces, further spreading the band’s brand and creating a visual representation of their music.

Image Trademark

In addition to the word mark trademark for their band name, “The Night Lights,” Emma and her bandmates may also consider securing an image trademark. This image trademark can be a distinctive logo, symbol, or artwork associated with the band. Here’s how the image trademark can enhance their licensing and merchandising opportunities:

The band can release limited edition merchandise items that showcase the image trademark. These collectibles can include special edition vinyl records, signed posters, or unique merchandise items only available for a limited time. Fans who are avid collectors will be particularly drawn to these exclusive items, further strengthening their connection to the band.

By combining the power of a word mark trademark for their band name and an image trademark for their visual identity, Emma and “The Night Lights” can leverage licensing and merchandising opportunities to generate additional revenue, promote their brand, and establish a deeper connection with their fans.

The Importance of Protection from Infringement in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

A federal trademark can provide an indie artist with a solution to stop AI-generated sampling of their work in the following ways:

By registering a federal trademark for their artist name or logo, the indie artist establishes a distinctive brand identity that is legally protected. This trademark serves as a clear indicator of the artist’s originality and creativity, making it easier to recognize and differentiate their work from others, including AI-generated samples.

With federal trademark registration, the indie artist gains exclusive rights to use their trademark in connection with their music. This means they have the legal authority to prevent others, including AI algorithms or developers, from using their trademark without permission. If an AI-generated sample infringes upon its trademark, the artist can take legal action to enforce their rights and stop unauthorized usage.

With a registered federal trademark, the indie artist can send cease and desist letters to individuals or organizations using AI-generated samples that infringe upon their trademark. These letters formally request the cessation of unauthorized usage and may serve as a warning before pursuing further legal action.

If the unauthorized use of AI-generated samples continues despite the artist’s cease-and-desist efforts, they can pursue legal remedies. This may involve filing a lawsuit against the infringing party, seeking injunctions to stop the usage, and potentially claiming damages for the unauthorized use of their trademarked work.

Monitoring and Addressing Infringements to Safeguard Your Creative Works

While copyright and trademark registration provide essential foundations for protection, it is equally important to monitor potential infringements. Regularly conduct online and offline searches for unauthorized use of your work. This can be a daunting task and is a service that can be outsourced to a professional.

Keep a watchful eye on music streaming platforms, social media channels, live performances, and merchandise to detect any attempts to exploit your creations without permission.

Enforcement Actions: Cease and Desist

Upon investing your time and money in registering a federal trademark, you gain some tools to use against copycats infringing on your property. One of the more common tools is known as a cease and desist letter. It essentially puts the thief on notice that you are aware of their actions, and it includes a demand to cease the infringement and provide compensation for the unauthorized use of your intellectual property (IP), or risk facing further legal action.

In the case of our hypothetical band above, the scenario might look like the following:

Once again, it is best to consult with an IP lawyer before launching and building out your brands, just as Emma did with her band, as well as when a threat arises that requires action. The last recourse would be to pursue legal remedies, in which case you can take the registered trademark to court to prove your case.

It’s important to keep in mind that the foregoing facts were merely hypothetical and designed to help you understand how intellectual property works. It is recommended that you seek advice to create your own strategy for your IP to amplify revenue and protect against copycats. Whether you call Aubtie Donna Brown®️ or not, it’s up to you. But just remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Meaning once you create your next big creation, put some thought into it and explore strategies for your band.

This is Auntie Donna Brown®️, and I’m done talking.

*Disclaimer: None of the foregoing should be construed as legal advice; each situation should be considered on a case-by-case basis. All examples are based on federal copyright and trademark laws.

Owning Your Truth Through Your Voice and Creative Edge

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By Colleen Lindberg, host of The Light Warriors Unleashed Podcast. Listen here!

Owning your voice is a powerful thing. As artists, you know, that when you sing a song or create a beat, that you can inspire a movement with that rhythm, that changes lives for people.  

You have seen it, time and time again. 

The eyes get lit up, the movement of the body, the soul awakens and the beat moves through them (and you). 

When you look out into the audience and feel the power of the music swaying the crowd, you are reminded that music can heal people. 

Read more

Wednesday Wisdom: Music Artists and Mental Wellness

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By Sacha Walton, Business Strategist and CEO of SWI Management Group

Mental health is not a niche topic in the music industry. The industry is fast-paced and full of demands for music artists. They are faced with a whirlwind of expectations from labels, fans, management, and promoters. However, the artists are typically left feeling overwhelmed, burned out, and at times, they lack the will to create.  

It’s easy for artists to get caught up and neglect their mental well-being. Maintaining a healthy state of mind is essential not only for personal happiness but also for creating inspired, meaningful music. This blog article delves into practical tips and techniques that can empower music artists to proactively manage their mental wellness, allowing them to flourish both on and off stage.

Read Sacha’s 8 tips!

Must-Have Traits of A Music Business Manager

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Sacha Walton - SWI Management Group

By Sacha Walton, Business Strategist and CEO of SWI Management Group.

In the ever-evolving world of music, business management plays a critical role in shaping an artist’s career trajectory. The music industry is filled with intense competition and numerous opportunities for growth, making the role of a music business manager more crucial than ever. The key to succeeding in the music industry as a business manager lies in the ability to possess certain traits that enable them to navigate this landscape successfully. Below, we’ll discuss the essential traits of a music business manager.

1. Industry Knowledge

The music industry is complex and continuously changing, with many different elements to it. For example, managers need to be aware of new trends in the market and the ever-changing music business landscape. As a result, music business managers need to possess an in-depth understanding of the industry’s dynamics and how it functions. They should have a deep knowledge of the technical aspects of the music industry, such as copyrights, publishing, and royalties. Without the essential industry knowledge, a music business manager is not able to guide their clients through their career.

2. Excellent Communication Skills

Music business managers need to communicate regularly with various industry professionals, such as booking agents, lawyers, and record labels. Effective communication is crucial in ensuring that all stakeholders are on the same page and working together towards the same goal. Good communication skills also enable music business managers to build relationships with key people in the industry and get the best deals for their clients.

3. Financial Management

Managing an artist’s finances is an essential part of a music business manager’s job. They need to have a deep understanding of the various financial aspects of the music industry. These can include managing contracts, budgeting, and tracking expenses. Additionally, the music business manager needs to ensure that the artist is getting paid correctly and on time.

4. Passion for Music

A music business manager should possess a deep love and passion for music. This passion is necessary because the music industry can be demanding and stressful, requiring a lot of work behind the scenes. Music business managers need to possess the drive and determination to ensure that their clients succeed and thrive in the industry.

5. Strong organizational skills

A successful music business manager must be organized, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously. From handling scheduling and finances to developing strategies for promoting their clients, an efficient manager must be on top of every detail to ensure the success of their clients.

6. Networking skills

In the music industry, networking is vital to success. As a result, music business managers must have strong networking skills. A great manager should have a large and diverse network of contacts in the industry that they can use to help their clients build relationships, find new opportunities, and negotiate deals.

7. Strategic Thinking

Lastly, music business managers need to be strategic thinkers. The ability to think critically and plan effectively is crucial in navigating the music industry. The manager must be able to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and strategize for the future to make the most of the artist’s potential.

Music business managers play a crucial role in shaping an artist’s career trajectory in the ever-changing music industry. To succeed, they need to possess certain essential traits such as industry knowledge, excellent communication skills, financial management skills, a passion for music, and strategic thinking. With these qualities, music business managers can make a real difference in the success of their clients in the music industry.

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