Ask the Speakers – Introducing youbloomDublin Panel Speakers 2018

25-May-2018 By Leave a Comment

Every year in June, artists, fans, and pioneers of the music industry unite for a weekend of live shows, guest speakers, and unforgettable experiences. This year, youbloom will be presenting a wide range of musicians, entrepreneurs, DJs, and producers to speak at the youbloom Summit held on Saturday June 2nd, held at the IMRO – Copyright House.

youbloomDublin 2017 Summit

Figure heads will come together to discuss the turning tides of the industry while artists and audience will have the opportunity to dialogue with the speakers (and network) directly. We asked a few of these movers and shakers of the industry some questions we thought important to the indie artists of the world. Read on to see what they had to say. And make sure to check out our full lineup speakers as tickets to the Summit are still available.

Ted Cohen (Keynote Speaker) A Sea of Gray Hats – How to use the system to change the system

Ted Cohen is Managing Partner of TAG Strategic. TAG is a digital entertainment consulting firm focused on creating strategic relationships, identifying market opportunities, growing brands and defining best practices for the entertainment, tech & mobile industries. Cohen was instrumental in crafting the licensing agreements upon which Rhapsody and the iTunes Store were built and has received the 2013 NARM Presidential Award, previously awarded to Ahmet Ertegun, & Dick Clark, among others.

What are the two most important things independent artists need to know, if they want to ‘make it’?

“We are no longer in a distribution economy, where getting your music available in a record store or played on the local radio station. We are firmly in the Attention Economy, where there is no barrier to getting your music out there. Your main objective now is to make your current and potential fans aware that your music is there and needs to be heard.”

“When using social media, you want to be a trusted resource/curator, not just a digital megaphone for your career advancement. Talk about the movies you like, books you’d recommend, and, yes, even praise other independent artists that are noteworthy. “

What do you think is the most valuable part of platforms/festivals like youbloom, for indie artists?

“Ideally, everyone is constantly sharing with each other new ideas, new ways to grow their audience. When this happens, fans and artists are all enriched. “

Steve Lindsey – How To Write A Hit – Inspiration or Perspiration

Steve entered the world of music publishing in 1985 as Professional Manager with Chappell Music in London (later Warner Chappell) and was appointed General Manager of Go! Discs Music in 1988. Steve Lindsey is managing director of Elevate Music, a Dublin based music publishing company. Elevate currently represents works by writers such as Cathy Davey, Aslan, Westlife, The Henry Girls, The Flaws and IFTA Award winning score composer Niall Byrne. Steve also sits on the boards of IMRO and MCPS Ireland.

What are the two most important things independent artists need to know, if they want to ‘make it’?

“A) A deep understanding of social media and how to use it effectively. B) That nothing will come to you – you have to put yourself out there.”

What do you think is the most valuable part of platforms/festivals like youbloom, for indie artists?

“The knowledge and experience of the speakers is valuable but also is the interaction and sharing of knowledge with other developing artists.”

Peter Astedt – How to get the most out of Spotify

Peter has worked in the music industry for over 25 years. He started his own record label Dead Frog Records of the age of fifteen 1990. In 2008 he started the company Musichelp Sweden AB which is a service company for people/artists in the music industry. Over the years over 8000 artists has gone through his systems. Today Peter is a board member of SOM (Swedish independent music producers, the equality of AIM (UK) and A2IM (USA) and is a board member of Mbin (Music business independent network).

What are the two most important things independent artists need to know, if they want to ‘make it’?

“To understand that you can’t do it yourself. You need a team. The good part you can choose your team members.”

What do you think is the most valuable part of platforms/festivals like youbloom, for indie artists?

“The opportunity to network and find people to fit your team. On top of that have the chance on the same day to show your product if you also play.”

Pete Holidai – Managing your career in the 21st century music industry

Pete was a founder member of The Radiators from space whose original line-up produced two albums for London based label Chiswick Records 1977’s TV Tube Heart and 1979s Ghostown which was produced by Tony Visconti.

For many years Pete produced radio sessions for RTE 2fm’s Dave Fanning show, while also producing many emerging Irish artists which lead to a Smithwicks/HotPress award for production in 1991. Currently Pete is playing withTrouble Pilgrims along with original Radiators member Steve Rapid and long term member Johnny Bonnie along with bassist Bren Lynott and rhythm guitarist Tony St Ledger.

What are the two most important things independent artists need to know, if they want to ‘make it’?

“Gathering knowledge and insight of current and future trends can help artist devise a critical pathway to establish a foothold in the industry and recognize the importance of networking and development of key partnerships.”

Myla Hardie – Live Touring & Production

Moving to New York City at an early age of 17, Myla formed her first band of original compositions, “The Myla Hardie Band.” Their album, “Waiting for Perfection” got them on the ballot for the Grammy nomination.

Now with 25 years of professional music experience on stage and off, Myla divides her time administering her family-owned, independent record label, Worldhaus Music, through which she represents four international artists and continues to perform in Brazil, Argentina, Europe and North America.

What are the two most important things independent artists need to know, if they want to ‘make it’?

1) “Never let the business get in the way of your music.” Meaning you should not make an album or write a song thinking of your business plan or how to market it first. The art should always come first and then the business that is meant to be your own will follow. Remember that the industry needs your unique voice to exist and prosper.”

2) “‘Stay in it to win it!’ Persistence and perseverance are the keys to success in the music business. There is no magic formula, it really is just hard work, dedication, having fun, personal relationships and staying around long enough to see your own network grow.”

What do you think is the most valuable part of platforms/festivals like youbloom, for indie artists?

“A couple of things, but the most obvious is that you have to show up. Being present and in people’s faces is the only way to make the personal relationships that you need to get anywhere outside of your own network of contacts. The exchange of experiences and just knowing that you are not the only one trying to do this, otherwise, pretty lonely venture has more value than any ticket price.

Also, the perspective shift that each may experience from a certain piece of information could change the way you see your direction at this moment or in your future in the music business. Then finally, just building a community of like-minded individuals together makes everyone stronger and the platform as a whole gain clout.”

Purchase Tickets to youbloomDublin 2019 Music festival & Summit

Oliver Cole at youblooDublin 2017

Crowdsourcing: Will it Really Shape Your Music Career?

15-May-2018 By Leave a Comment

What is Crowdsourcing?

“Crowdsourcing” can be defined as a sourcing model which enables individuals to gain a particular good or service through an exchange. Today, crowdsourcing is quite prominent between artists of all disciplines. Musicians, sculptors and designers connect through crowdsourcing sites where they can gain exposure as well as promotional opportunities. Naturally, there are hundreds of platforms out there where an artist can get connected but the trick is finding the two or three platforms that are actually good.

What about Crowdfunding?

So, now you understand crowdsourcing, hopefully you’re familiar with crowdsurfing – I’ve got one more for you: crowdfunding. Crowdfunding is often a group of people coming together to fund some business venture through small financial intakes. This could be a musician whose revenue for a show comes from ticket sales sold through a crowdsourcing platform. This brings us right back to the quintessential issue of how to choose the right connection agency to help you crowdsource.

It all comes down to what you are looking for.

Crowdsourcing conference at youbloomDublin Music Festival & Summit

Though crowdsourcing and crowdfunding originate in the same place, focusing on one can help artists when narrowing down their options. There are organizations that have been around for years, such as Kickstarter, which are strictly for crowdfunding inquiries. This means that musicians can connect with a community of like-minded creators and build funds around their passions. Similar sites include Pledgemusic and Patreon.

On the other hand, crowdsourcing platforms, which cater more towards a direct exchange of goods or services, can be equally effective to the artist. These connection agencies include youbloomConnect and Songkick. Rather than simply giving artists a platform, companies like youbloom play a central role in providing artists exposure and fans. Youbloom is unique as it pairs artists together, connecting the two fan bases, and broadening an artists fanbase beyond the band’s origin. Contrarily, a regular complaint among Songkick users is its lack of connection and community between artists.

At the end of the day, it’s hard to go entirely wrong with any of these hardworking crowdsourcing platforms; it all comes down to whether your art needs support or more clearly laid-out instructions and opportunities.

Josey is a content writer for youbloom as well as a member of the marketing team. She is music obsessed and a diehard Tom Petty fan. Josey currently lives outside of Los Angeles where she enjoys excessively sunny days, train adventures and organic chai (yes, Josey is high-maintenance about her chai).

You’ve Been Writing Song Lyrics Wrong

08-May-2018 By Leave a Comment

As musical styles progress and change with the times, one thing is for certain, writing song lyrics continues to play a vital part in what sets artists from being good to being considered a great. So for those of you currently in a creative drought, here is some advice from a few of the greats.

Jimi Hendrix on Artistic Liberties with the Facts

“Imagination is the key to my lyrics. The rest is painted with a little science fiction.”

–Jimi Hendrix

Photo Courtesy of the Artist

Many artists pigeonhole themselves by believing that every word written must be 100% accurate to their lives and story they are telling. Of course, speaking from your own personal experiences is vital in creating meaningful music. But the point is to get your message across in the best way possible. Sometimes, this might involve a little science fiction.

Dolly Parton on Throwing Yourself into the Process

“It’s therapy. It’s fun. It’s creative. I love getting on a big writing binge and staying up a couple days working on song and knowing at the end of those two or three days that I’ve created something that was never in the world before.”

–Dolly Parton

Photo Courtesy of the Artist

If this is your passion, don’t be afraid to throw yourself into your work. The stories of artists writing a hit song in 5 minutes’ time, on a napkin, in an airport is incredible! But most great songs come from hard work, dedication, and focus from the artist. This mean sitting down and wrestling with a song until it feels right.

John Mayer on Speaking Your Own Truth

“I hope that what it comes down to at the end of the day is that people believe that I believe what I’m singing. It comes down to being believable.”

–John Mayer

Photo Courtesy of the Artist

Authenticity is key in songwriting and producing. This may seem strange since the first piece of advice was to stretch the truth in the songwriting process. Don’t be confused, there is a difference between writing a nonfiction story to produce a personal truth, and writing a meaningless song for the sake of staying on trend. Be true to your artistic endeavors and creative process because the song will thus come across genuine to the listeners.

Now go on and be inspired to create and then when it comes time to perform, remember to sign up for youbloomConnect to get the chance to connect with your fans and other artists to grow not only your fan base but your connections in the industry. To get more information on how youbloom can help you book more gigs across the world and have the chance to play at #youbloomLA and #youbloomDublin, follow the link: http://www.youbloom.com/

House shows are the New Frontier of the DIY

02-May-2018 By Leave a Comment

youbloom Dublin house shows

There’s a new way to get your band out there: house shows.

Playing local clubs and venues is certainly a must for any emerging band. But the networking opportunity that might spring from throwing house shows is something not to sleep on. It might seem counter-intuitive that playing a house show is more fruitful than a local club. It’s not, and here’s why.

It’s Cheap

Playing a house show is a great way for your friends and fans to save a ton of money. No cover charge or overpriced drinks to deter potential guests! Sure they are going to want to drink, but let guests bring their own beverages. And everybody knows that a six pack from your local store is cheaper than a tall boy at a bar. And most importantly, it lasts longer. More people are encouraged to come, have a good time, and spend the few bucks they saved on some merch.

You’ll Definitely Fill the Room

Second, unless your marketing skills are extraordinary or you are playing your hometown, your band is definitely going to have a better time playing in front of a house show audience than a half empty room at a club. And if your band is coming up in the club scene, check out our tips on how to ace those live shows. It takes practically nothing to gather 50 people to a house party, the only thing you have to say is “Hey, there’s a house party”. You won’t even have to add “Bring your friends”. That’s a given.

It’s Easy

Dublin festival House Shows

Third, you are way more likely to build a fruitful relationship with other bands at a house show than at a local club. A party is a familiar environment, even for someone who’s somewhat of an introvert or just doesn’t know anyone else except their bandmates.

It’s a lot easier to go up to someone and chat at a house party than at a club with loud music playing, people sticking to their friend groups, and bands always busy loading their gear or getting lost at the bar.

In an era where DIY is king, house shows must be queen.

youbloom is all about helping bands build relationships in unexpected places. If you could see yourself hosting a show in your own space, check out youbloomConnect to see what we can do to connect you to a CityRep and a band near you.

Luca is a freelance writer, blogger, musician and songwriter. Born and raised in Italy, his passion for Rock n Roll made him move to London where he lived for one year and gained a certificate in Songwriting from ICMP. Luca relocated in NYC in 2014 to pursue jazz music and liberal arts at the The New School from which he graduated in December 2017. Luca currently resides in Nashville, TN.

5 Tips for Playing Successful Shows

19-Apr-2018 By 3 Comments

Back To The Ocean Performing at Youbloom Festival

A few tips to playing successful shows

Imagine you just moved to a new town. No friends or musician pals, let alone connections with the local music scene. What do you do? The easy answer would be: get a band together and start playing successful shows , but that is not always the fastest track to local success.

When you’re trying to establish yourself as an artist in the local scene, your goal should not simply be to put a show together, but to put together a successful show. The difference is enormous. Here’s a few tips of how to make that happen.

1. Know your Target

As an artist, you should be crystal clear about what your skill set, goal and target is. An emerging artist should not count booking a show an end goal in itself.

The details are what matters the most: who is coming to catch your band play? Are you going to be performing for a near-empty room, with only your roommate and parents there to watch?

If you’re a rock ‘n’ roller, on the other hand, your natural habitat should be the DIY scene. Do your research. Who are the best local bands that gravitate towards your sound? Where do they usually play? Are they playing successful shows? Where do they go for a pint?

2. Be a Fan

Once you’ve gathered your data, take action. Go see their shows, follow them on social media, see what they’re up to and what their strategy is. Artists should learn from each others’ success as well as mistakes.

Back To The Ocean Playing successful shows at youbloom festival

If you’re a songwriter and producer you may wanna play acoustic rounds and hang out where the local songwriters are, rather than at a dive bar populated by rock bands.

3. Don’t be a Stranger

Most importantly, befriend these fellow rockers. Approach them after their show, buy them a beer and make friends. If you’re the shy type who likes to stand in the back and just enjoy the show, get another member of your band to be the social one. Or, fight yourself and make an effort to exchange a few words and perhaps a little booze with them.

Whether you’re a hit writer or an indie rocker, you never know where meeting new people may lead you. You might end up co-writing a number 1 hit on a chill afternoon session with a writer you met randomly at a show. Or, you might end up headlining a national tour with a small-time band that broke through – and all because you had the guts to go talk to them after a set at your local dive.

Don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone, because that is what’s going to change your perspective on things and ultimately lead you to a more efficient strategy for your career.

4. Offer Up your Skills

Take time out of your own life to make friends with those acts that already establish themselves in the local scene. Ask if they would like you to open for them. That way you will most likely play to a room full of people who are probably into music or musicians themselves.

5. Schmooze

Playing Successful Shows at youbloom Festival

Back To The Ocean and Anna Christie perform at the youbloom Festival

By opening for your new-found friends, you’ll be making a name for yourself as a new band around town, and you’ll be gaining their fans in the process. Throw a nice after-party after the show where you can properly hang out with your new fans and you’ll have a recipe for success.

Networking and making friends is crucial and takes a lot of work and dedication. If you’re looking for a simpler way to join these networks, check out youbloom Connect – where you can get partnered to perform with other local artists, build a steady fan-base, and even get your band on the road. Whether you reach out, or decide to do it alone, do yourself a favor: get out more and meet like-minded people. Many of them might not be your next musical partner in crime, but the worst that’ll happen is you’ll have more friends.

Luca a freelance writer, blogger, musician and songwriter. Born and
raised in Italy, his passion for Rock n Roll made him move to London where he
lived for one year and gained a certificate in Songwriting from ICMP.
Luca relocated in NYC in 2014 to pursue jazz music and liberal arts at the
The New School from which he graduated in December 2017. Luca currently
reside in Nashville, TN