ASK ARIE [What's the 411?]

As an indie artist I stay up on my monthly music magazines. Occasionally, there are stories and interviews in them that I know I would've been perfect for. Is there a way to know what magazines are going to cover before they hit the news stand? - ___@yahoo.com


Ab-so-freaking-lutely! All organized media outlets have Editorial and Production calendars that provide a list of the major stories their publication will cover that year, by month and the publication's "Issue", "Copy" and "Sale" aka newsstand dates.

I know all this stuff sounds like it may be "top secret" [laughing] but, you'd be surprised what useful info's on your favorite media websites; besides the latest gossip.

98% of magazines have this information available online under the section labeled Media Kit and for those very few that don't should be able to provide you with the same info via email or good old fashion "snail mail" upon request.

Anyways, once you've located or received this information, contact the publication to find out who's the editor and/or journalist covering the piece that peaks your interest. Once you know who to contact it's very important to find out their personal deadlines and submission guidelines, especially due to the fact many big stories and interviews are worked on or completed as much as three months before the posted dates on the Editorial and Production calendars. You don't want to miss your window. So contact the right people a.s.a.p.!

[Side bar: It may also be a good idea to do your due diligence on the journalist] This extra step will familiarize you with their writing style and personality.

Normally, most editors and journalists encourage the creative input of those who take the time to contact them with valid, useful and entertaining information. So good luck and remember there are never any guarantees, but there's always the possibility of making great connections.

Do you have something you'd like to know? I'm here every week answering your questions. Send me an email: contactsaidarie[@]gmail.com and follow me on twitter at: www.twitter.com/leirapr_ceo

Melo Kan's (I'm still in love with her)

ASK ARIE about [Open Market]

Arie, I'm about to release a national project. My budget is low. Is it better to spend money on marketing or public relations? - Stevie




Although there is a fine line between the two. Before I can answer your question I will need you to answer mine....



Do you have an established-self-sustaining fan base? Think about it and answer honestly [laughing], take your time, [Jeopardy music plays in background] like Katt Williams "Don't worry I'll wait"...


Okay, time's up! If the answer is NO (and yes, "no" includes only being known in your hometown, immediate family, friends, city and state) then I'd suggest starting with marketing. Why you ask? Marketing aka "pay for post" is guaranteed placement of your posters, album cover and other promotional art in key places (i.e. magazines, blogs, music sites, night clubs etc.) Placement in these prime locations make impressions of your brand in the subconscious minds of those who come in contact. This is very important!


Also, don't forget to utilize free marketing by submitting your new music and videos to sites, independent/college radio, and DJs for rotation and placement [consideration]. These basic and inexpensive steps give the public a chance to hear your music, possibly leading to new fans, and additional interest in you. Hence the power of marketing.


Now, if you've already established a brand and reliable fan base, invest in public relations and notify your existing fans and familiar media of your new projects, tour dates, in addition to conducting interviews. These fundamental steps may possibly catch the attention of those whom have seen your brand previously and now want to know more about you.


No matter what you decide, proper marketing and public relations is almost as important as the music you create.


Oh yeah and a fact to remember:


Avoid interviews and reviews for pay. When people know you cut checks for coverage they're less likely to believe the good press given. Of course the media outlet gives you feature interviews [when no one knows who you are] or five stars your latest album.... YOU PAID THEM TO!

Good luck!


Do you have a question for me or something you'd like to know? I'm here every week answering your emails on industry how-to's and important Do's and Don'ts. Send me an email: contactsaidarie[at]gmail.com and follow me on twitter at: www.twitter.com/leirapr_ceo

J-Stackz Feat..Renegade Sage "Where The Luv At"?

Stranding from Queens NY come's a artist that we have played on bubble shake radio some while back known as J-stackz. It was funny that he hooked up with music pusher's own renegade sage who did not now that his promotional team was already in cahoots with the rapper.

 the two hooked up with the latest track from jstackz entitled "where the love at" that will be on his mixtape that will drop later in the month.

The two artist from Rockaway Blvd brought the two side of the Blvd to combine with this mega hit.

the video was launched on renegades sage music pusher ent official website http://ow.ly/49ayi you can watch the video below, the video is  produced by DuuTv.

"Ask Arie" Week 3

I've received responses from emails I send out saying that my approach is ghetto. Man, I'm just trying to get my music heard, what do you suggest? - Jo Dee



[laughing] Ghetto may be a little harsh. However, it is very important to approach people [especially if you don't know them] in a professional manner.

Let's slip on our common-sense fitted caps shall we….

In my opinion, the best way to approach people [media etc.] is to step into their shoes. Imagine being an editor or program director who receives 100's of emails a day, from talented people such as yourself looking to have their music posted or played. Now, imagine every other email is "Yo check my new sh*t out" or my personal favorite "You might wanna f*ck with me, I'm that n*gga"...

PAUSE followed by a [blank stare]

Oh and we definitely can't forget the random single link email. You know what I'm talking about. An email with just a link and no additional information. Really??? Let's be real your email and "hot sh*t" is going straight into the trash and you may now possibly be marked as SPAM.
My advice…. Keep it simple stupid! Sorry, I mean short and to the point. Here's a few pointers to help you look like you know what you're doing and be taken serious.

1. Dear Editor or Program Director [If you don't know the name of the person being contacted]

2. Introduce yourself and the reason for the email.

3. If you're promoting a project tell a little bit about it. [Keep it SHORT]

4. Enclose a "share" link (in the email body) avoid sending music as an attachment, unless requested. This keeps things all in one neat presentation.

Plus most outlets prefer this format.

5. Leave your contact information.

6. Thank the receiver for taking the time to read your email.

7. Sign "Sincerely, _____________" <------ place your name here

8. SPELL CHECK

9. Press send


There are never any guarantees in public relations, but one thing I know for sure. Following these steps will get your foot in the "door", email acknowledged and possibly the coverage you're seeking. -- Let me know how you make out!


Do you have a question for me or something you'd like to know? I'm here every week answering your emails on industry how-to's and important Do's and Don'ts. Send me an email: contactsaidarie@gmail.com and follow me on twitter at:  www.twitter.com/leirapr_ceo

DA MUSIC PUSHA VOL # 2

 DA music pusha vol # 2 is the continuation of the dynamic alter ego maniac boss of the game Soja Realz diabolical thinking for all world hip hop. The mix CD has the new single with Rick Ross and singer Neyo super high.  various artist with some unique sounds from west to east to the south also made it well rounded.

the cover of the mix CD was designed by the SOJA REALZ. A true talent indeed, Wayne bent the CEO of bubble shake is doing it all  these days. it was announced that there will be another mix CD to drop called bubble shake radio witch will be round one with various industry artist together giving that underground and pop sounds. the models to grace them self on the cover of the CD is the ever gracious Snow beezy scheduled to be on the cover of bubble shake magazine in July  issue #16.

the mix CD can be downloaded for promotional use only below:

http://limelinx.com/files/825ce78fd01d5336a7ba189622bfc257