Airplay 360 March 2011 by AIRPLAY 360

March Cover Deitrick Haddon

PUBLISHER’S NOTE NOW is the Time to Get Down to Business t is a pleasure to present to you each month in Airplay 360 some of the most talented people in the Gospel music industry, both artistically and corporately. I often time say to independent gospel artists, ”What you do as an artist is ministry, how you do it is business.” If never before, NOW is the time to get down to business. Every opportunity is open to you. Resources are available for you but you have to prepare and equip yourself. It doesn't matter what we print in this magazine or how many teleseminars we sponsor to empower independent artists, unless you have a mind to receive, you won’t benefit from our efforts. If you do only one thing this year, become a sponge. Absorb as much knowledge about your craft and the industry as you can. Allow constructive critiques to sharpen your talents. Take nothing personal. That one emotion can become your worst enemy. KEEP IT BUSINESS! Think, strategize and use what God has given you. That little slingshot in your hand can take down giants, so use it wisely! I owe much gratitude to so many who support me, encourage me and push me when I falter or slowdown. Now I'm pushing you. THIS IS YOUR SEASON; NOW IS YOUR TIME! Musically,

March 2011 / Vol. 3 No. 8

PUBLISHER Ace Alexander EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Louise M. Moore ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER Alicia Baiden Nicole Doldron EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Michelle Slater TEAM OF EXPERTS Adrian Anderson Tina A. Fears Kathy Grant Angela D. Green, Esq. Dileesa Hunter Roderick Jemison Nicole B. Simpson, CFP Chris Squire Mark A. Williams, M.D., Ph.D. COLUMNISTS Linda Berthier Wanda Patterson ADVERTISING LTL Entertainment LLC AIRPLAY 360 Online Magazine published monthly www.airplay360.com

Ace Alexander Publisher/Founder

Ace Alexander is a national music director and radio personality. He is a recipient of the Central South Distribution REACH Award. He is a two-time nominee for the R&R / Billboard Achievement Awards for Radio Personality and National Music Director of the Year and a 2010 Radio Stellar Award nominee. He is also a Music & Entertainment Consultant and Founder of Airplay 360. www.airplay360.com

Reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. Readers are free to forward this web magazine to friends and colleagues. DISCLAIMER: The articles and resources in AIRPLAY 360 are not intended to be a substitute for professional consultations. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this web magazine, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

March 2011

INSIDE March 2011

Contents 3

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: “Time to Get Down to Business” By Ace Alexander

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Houston Songstress YUNEK By Louise M. Moore

LEGAL BRIEF: Royalties and the ISRC Code By Angela D. Green, Esq.

10 RISING STAR: Psalmist DORIS STOKES 11 RISING STAR: Urban Contemporary Artist PORSCHIA 13 DEVELOPMENT: 5 Ways to Elevate Your Artistry By Tina A. Fears 14 COVER STORY FEATURE: DEITRICK HADDON By Louise M. Moore 18 VOCAL HEALTH: Spring Allergies and Your Voice By Mark A. Williams, MD PhD 19 YOUR IMAGE: Be Your Authentic Self

By Adrian Anderson

21 INDUSTRY NEWS: SongCast Adds New Channel 21 INTERNATIONAL: Canadian Opportunities for Indies By Kathy Grant S

On the Cover: Deitrick Haddon – Photo by Derek Blanks

Why You Should Know What an ISCR Code Is

DORIS STOKES

YUNEK

PORSCHIA

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BY LOUISE M. MOORE

March 2011

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unek (pronounced “unique”) is truly an asset to the Christian music scene. She’s young, vibrant and adamant about her purpose in this industry. Born Jessica Joseph, the Houston, Texas-based artist has a style of music that is fresh and soulful, yet diverse enough for contemporary Christian music formats. Her first album Exodus: Three Seventeen received high praise and featured the hit single Got Fruit. Her sophomore album Detour is set for a Summer 2011 release but the first single Will Not Rest is already impacting gospel radio and is set to create a buzz even with CCM. In an interview with Airplay 360, Yunek tells us how her musical journey began, what motivates her and what aspirations she has for the future. LM: How did you get started in music? Yunek: I started when I was 5 years old. That’s when my mother pushed me and encouraged me to get in the choir and start piano lessons. She was really just trying to give me options to explore my talents and see what God had really placed in me. But it wasn’t until my senior year in college when God was really making some changes in my life that I realized there was something more that I wanted to do. A friend of mine was like, “Let’s do a CD.” And, I had no idea about what to do with producing music but I wanted to go to school to find out more and that’s when I decided to seriously pursue music. I learned audio engineering, mixing and mastering and while I was in the studio, God was just pushing me out there into the forefront and I started creating my own music. LM: So you actually went to school for this? Yunek: Yes. After I got my degree in Social Work, I went back to school for mixing and mastering. I wanted to be behind the scenes but God was just pushing me out in the forefront as I began to deal with different artists. LM: Can you tell me some of the artists you worked with when you were in the studio? Yunek: I worked with a lot of artists in Houston like Tre9 who also does the Holy Hip Hop Awards here in Houston and also has DaSouth.com that caters to all the rappers and hip hop artists around the world. He was very influential to me. I wrote him an email and I said, “I want to step out into music and I will do whatever you want me to do—take out your trash, mail out letters or

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whatever you need me to do.” I started working at Tre9’s studio and he took me under his wing. Kurt Carr was there and a lot of the Houston artists were there. I was just surrounded with music and that’s what I needed. LM: Did you always want to do inspirational music? Yunek: No. Actually, when I was in my earlier years of college, I was stepping into talent shows and showcases they would have at different clubs so I knew I had a raw talent. But it wasn’t until my senior year that I knew I was going to do it for God. LM: Who has been your biggest inspiration in all of this? Yunek: Naturally, my mother and my father. Being an independent artist and having my own label, they see the amount of work that it takes and the amount of money that it takes. And, they’ve just been there. They’ve been my support system and they’re helping me just step out there on my own and I love that, as a business woman and as an artist. But musically, Marvin Sapp and his song Nothing Else Matters was influential in my change and my shift with God. And also India Arie is very inspirational. Her music is very positive. As a Christian, I definitely represent Jesus Christ and speak about him in my music but there’s also a way that we can paint the picture and be positive and just touch lives in a simple way. For more information on Yunek visit her online at www.yunekmusic.com.

March 2011

LEGAL Brief

ROYALTIES . . . Why You Must Know What an ISRC Code Is BY ANGELA D. GREEN, ESQ.

nce you have been in the recording industry for a while, you start to pick up on the language or shorthand of the industry. I remember the first time I heard someone ask me about ISRC codes. I had no idea what they were talking about. Working on the legal end of the industry, there really was no reason for me to know. However, I have many producers and independent recording studios as clients. When I learned that they did not know what an ISRC code was, I figured I would do some investigation on our behalf.

ISRC stands for International Standard Recording Code. This code is a twelve digit international identifier for sound and music video recordings. Many in the industry refer to it as the digital “fingerprint” fingerprint” for each track. Once an ISRC has been assigned to a track, it follows the track regardless of ownership change. It is an awesome tool for royalty collection, administration and antianti-piracy safeguards in the digital arena. The ISRC is made of four parts. (1) Country Code (2) Registrant Code (3) Year of Reference (4) A Code Assigned by the Registrant

March 2011

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“Once an ISRC has been assigned to a track, it follows the track regardless of ownership change.” change.” The RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) is the National ISRC Administration for the United States. If you are a record label, studio, or wish to be an ISRC registrant manager, you may contact the RIAA to find out how to apply for your registrant code. If you don’ don’t want the responsibility of administering a registrant code, there are ISRC managers that are authorized by the RIAA to offer ISRC codes for purchase. CDBaby.com, Postionmenow.com and INgrooves are just a few ISRC managers in the United States. As the independent producer, record label or studio owner are able to go headhead-toto-head with the major record labels and studios; it is important that they use the tools of the majors and position themselves for major success. The articles and/or legal tips provided by Angela Green, Esq. are for informational purposes only, concerning general legal principles. You should consult your legal counsel for answers to specific legal questions. Angela Green is an entertainment Attorney in Memphis, Tennessee and also part owner of Key II Entertainment which is an artist management company. She is also founder and CEO of music publishing and registration service Positioned for Millions. www.positionmenow.com

GENRE Praise & Worship/Gospel CD TITLE Praise & Worship Unleashed! FEATURED SINGLE Calypso Praise,...Is Ya Love RELEASE DATE January 2009 LABEL 1 Voice Music

“My passion for worship & praise is what drives what I write and how it gets written. As a worshiper, the Lord may allow me to find inspiration in many types of ways. Mine has been mostly based off of life experiences, my relationship with Him as well as my relationships with others. However, over many years of developing my personal relationship with God, I can share and CONFIRM that he's real, he’ll do just what he says.” here are singers and there are SANGERS. Psalmist Doris Stokes just happens to be blessed as one of the latter! This dynamic vocalist and 2010 six-time I Hear Music Gospel People’s Choice Awards winner hails out of the Stokes family of Dayton, OH. She is the youngest member of this starproducing family, possessing a song and style all her own. She has been singing ever since she can remember, starting in church and at home with brothers and sister. Her brothers were R&B stars—Otha (The Ohio Players and Sugarhill Gang), Arthur (Hakim in Heatwave) and Frank, Ralph, Otis (Lakeside). Doris and her siblings were raised in a Christian home by parents who loved the Lord. “It’s really all we knew from the very beginning. My Mom and Dad made us sing in the choir. We were drafted into it once the secret was out that we could all sing,” says Doris. Doris began writing songs at the age of nineteen; however, she first sang professionally on brother Otis’ first solo project. She also sang background vocals with brother Hakim on several recordings including the soundtrack to the MGM movie All Dogs Go To Heaven on MCA/Curb Records. Soon she began singing Gospel professionally and became a founding member with

March 2011

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contemporary gospel choir David Minor With One Voice which disbanded in 1997 but later re-grouped and was re-named New Vision under the direction of Archie Byers. New Vision completed a live CD on which Doris was featured soloist. After faithfully supporting and serving others in diverse capacities for so many years, the time has now come for Doris to step out from behind the scenes and move forward in her season of ministry as a TRIPLE THREAT; she’s Anointed to preach, teach and sing! She has completed her first “live” solo effort entitled, Praise & Worship…Unleashed! released in January 2009! By those familiar with her ministry, this much anticipated project is produced by herself and long-time friend Minister Keith Leak. The project showcases her writing and production abilities as well as sets the stage for her to flourish in her main element: in front of a “live” audience! Once you have experienced praise and worship with this gem, there will be no doubt that you have been in the presence of the Lord and that she is anointed! Great things are happening for gospel music’s “Black Pearl” Psalmist Doris Stokes! For more information on Doris Stokes’ music and how you can book her visit www.dorisastokes.com.

GENRE Urban Contemporary FEATURED SINGLE Hero RELEASE DATE November 30, 2010 LABEL Taylor Park Ent./Kingdom Passion Music Group *Full album to be released Fall 2011

“God's continual love, grace and favor from my youth until now inspires me to give him glory in every song. .”

merging urban contemporary Christian artist Porschia has a voice and style that is eclectic, unique, versatile and anointed. Her latest single Hero especially shows her ability to combine the musical flavor of the South with the boldness of God’s word. In Hero, Porschia paints a picture of God as the ultimate superhero who has no weaknesses and who is more than able to rescue his people from all danger. Hero is an anthem of praise that proclaims the attributes of God and declares the sovereign power of God. Produced by Paul Taylor Jr. (Sound Design Studios) and mastered by Dove Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Antonio Neal, Hero’s rhythm-driven beat, layers of synthesized melodies and enduring message will ensure that listeners keep it on repeat. Fronted by Porschia’s trademark, in-your-face voice, Hero is an urban contemporary hit that appeals to gospel, Christian, R&B and hip hop listeners alike as well as listeners of all ages and races. Born and raised in Savannah, GA, Porschia began singing in church at the age of five. However, it wasn’t until years later that she realized the anointing and calling of God on her life. At the age of 19, Porschia fully dedicated her life to God. Almost immediately, she faced many trials and later experienced several life-changing www.airplay360.com

events, all of which brought her closer to God and served as preparation for her ministry. Her mission is to edify the body of Christ and inspire those who are lost with music that ministers to the soul. She has been given the ability to fuse the word of God with divinely inspired melodies. Her debut release Introducing Porschia, not only exposed listeners to her dynamic gift, but most importantly, invited listeners to worship God. Since the release in September 2009, Porschia has performed with artists such as Damita Haddon, Jai, JR, Still Trill Christians and Wess Morgan. Porschia has also performed for Comedian Marcus D. Wiley from The Yolanda Adams Morning Show. Porschia is a covenant partner with Real Life Christian Fellowship Church in Port Wentworth, GA, where she serves as a worship leader. Porschia’s sophomore album, featuring the single Hero, is set for release Fall 2011. Hero is now available on iTunes, Amazon and eMusic. For more information on Porschia, go to www.reverbnation.com/porschiasingsthesound To book Porschia at your next ministry event or festival, please contact: Lesley S. Taylor, Taylor Park Ent./Kingdom Passion Music Group Email: bookingporschia@gmail.com Phone: (912) 306-4952 March 2011

BY LOUISE M. MOORE

February 2011

AIRPLAY 360

5 Ways to Elevate Yourself as an ARTIST BY TINA A. FEARS

another growing artist is a great way to elevate your artistic potential. This includes teaming up for live appearances and collaborations on recorded music. It's great to bounce ideas off someone with similar goals and a like minded thought process. Take a forward approach that will pay off with a broader listening audience and a live performance that will include two great artists instead of one.

presented the right way. Spending time with a vocal coach and choreographer can be like secret weapons when attacking the stage. Your vocal coach will help with maintaining your voice under demanding conditions as well as recording tips and ways to improve your delivery. Your choreographer will assist with stage presence and designing your live show. Investing in all areas of your presentation are ways to ensure longevity.

2. IDENTIFY YOUR DREAM - Your dream

5. ADD VARIETY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; There may come a time

1. COLLABORATE - Joining forces with

team consists of individuals that understand and support your vision. This group may start as family and friends, yet can easily expand to a thriving fan base. Stay connected with this group because they will be your most important promotional tool. The best live concerts are those filled with individuals that support the artist.

3. PUT IN THE WORK - Create a physical fitness regimen that will help you build stamina and maintain healthy living. In order to belt out a powerful note or perform a high energy crowd favorite a tight fitness regiment will support these demanding activities. The results of putting in work can produce a solid artist inside and out!

4. FACE FUNDAMENTALS - It's easy to rely on talent alone; however, facing the fundamentals ensure your gift is polished and

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where you may need to switch things up based on your audience or even technical difficulty at the venue. By adding a wide range of material to your repertoire, you expand your performance range and your live show will remain interesting. Consider adding your twist to standard performance material or an acoustic version of your hit record to your set. Showing flexibility and creativity is a sure way to keep your audience engaged and excited about what you next appearance has in store.

Tina A. Fears is the Founder/CEO of Stage Ready LLC in Atlanta, GA. Stage Ready is an artist development firm that specializes in choreography, styling, casting and live production development.

March 2011

BY LOUISE M. MOORE

hart-topping, Grammy-nominated urban inspirational star Deitrick Haddon is passionate about his music and ministry. You can hear it in songs like Sinner’s Prayer, God is Good, God Didn’t Give Up and Love Him Like I Do which featured gospel artists Mary Mary and

March 2011

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R&B crooner Ruben Studdard. And now, Haddon is displaying his passion again through tracks from his most recent Verity Records CD Church On The Moon. Radio hit singles Well Done and Reppin’ the Kingdom (with J. Moss, Canton Jones, Tye Tribbett and T. Haddy) are resonating big time with music

lovers—young and old, Christian and secular, domestic and international. The creative genius of Deitrick Haddon utilizes, like no one else, the diverse sounds of rock, soul, gospel and hip hop to draw in an audience that is equally diverse. Recently, we at Airplay 360 had the pleasure of talking with Haddon about his latest project Church On The Moon and he gave detailed insight into the vision behind it, his real passion and what’s up next for him. LM: First of all, congratulations on your new CD Church On The Moon and it’s debut at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Chart. DH: Can you believe that Church on the Moon is number one? When I first came up with the title Church On The Moon people thought I was crazy. At first, I was like “I’ve got to be crazy!” But, then, God began to give me powerful songs, lyrics and put the project together and then gave me scripture to back it up. And, then, I actually told some people at the record company (Verity) that I wanted to title my CD Church On The Moon. LM: What was the reaction? DH: We fought tooth and nail for a good month. They said it wouldn’t work, that people are going to think you’re starting a new doctrine; people are going to think you’re crazy; they’re not going to take you serious.” I heard everything from every which way but I stood my ground because I had a word from the Lord. And, finally, the president of the company, Jazzy Jordan said, “You know what Deitrick?” “When I saw you in concert, the spirit of the Lord told me to ‘let that boy do the music that he’s supposed to make. Let him do what he needs to do to connect with these young people.’” (Jordan) said, “Alright, let’s go with it. It’s going to be Church On The Moon whether we sink or swim.’” And, it looks like we’re swimming all over the country, all overseas. People are going crazy over Church On The Moon. LM: The album debuted at #65 on Billboard 200. Are you getting an support from urban radio? DH: Absolutely! Well Done is taking radio by storm. It was a slow build but it looks like that song is headed to #1. People are really getting it, whether it be secular radio or gospel radio. People want to hear God say, “Well done.” It seems like every time I land in a different city, I turn on the radio and they’re playing that song. LM: You’ve got some other artists on this CD singing with you. How did you decide who you

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“Church On The Moon” was released Jan. 25, 2011 and debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Chart

would collaborate with? DH: Well, I collaborate with my wife Damita all the time. Whether you guys know it or not, she’s always in the mix helping me write songs and make decisions. Nothing gets past her. She’s my biggest fan, but she’s my worst critic at the same time. She’ll tell me, “That ain’t going to work. I didn’t feel no anointing on that. You didn’t sing with enough passion or I didn’t feel it.” It’s a blessing to have a helpmeet that’s in the music business that can help me balance out my creativity. So it was a no-brainer to have her on Save Somebody. She actually wrote her verse on that song. She’s my teammate. She’s my partner. LM: How did Reppin’ the Kingdom come about? DH: I think I was in Chicago and I sang Love Him Like I Do and the kids just went bananas. And, when I got off stage, I felt like something was saying, “You need a song just like that, almost with the same rhythm that can get these young people keeping that praise going.” And, the beat and the song started coming to me. I felt it needed to be a kingdom song that would unite all cultures, all young people together reppin’ the kingdom and I thought I needed to get all the top players together to do it. So, I thought about J. Moss, Canton Jones and Tye Tribbett and, everybody just brought it in and brought it together and we did it. I also decided to get my cousin T. Haddy who’s been working really hard DEITRICK HADDON Continued Page 16

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CONT’D DEITRICK HADDON FROM PG. 15

making a name for himself underground and I thought this was the perfect opportunity to put him on the big stage. LM: It’s great you included him but why do you think some artists are reluctant to collaborate? DH: Most artists are really intimidated at each other and sometimes people don’t want somebody else to get the same shine or outshine them. It’s a lot of reasons why people don’t come together especially in gospel music. It’s such a small genre and so when people get their piece of the pie, they want to make sure that nobody takes a little piece instead of sharing and bringing it together to make a whole pie so that everybody can enjoy it. I can only speak for myself but I am intimidated by no one at all. I appreciate other people’s gifts and talents. I don’t mind somebody else getting the spotlight. As a matter of fact, when I was younger, they used to push me to make me go to the forefront because I really didn’t want to sing. LM: You and your wife Damita pastor a church in Detroit called Kingdom Culture. How well does your church support your music ministry? DH: We’ve been pastoring for almost two years. It’s the fastest growing church in the city of Detroit. The church is exploding. It went from 400 members to over 2,000 in just two years. People are finding out that they can grow here. The word of God is rich here and once they come they get settled in and locked in and now they’re a part of the vision. If I don’t know that anybody else is supporting me, I know I have 2,000 people in Detroit that love the ministry and appreciate the fact that I get off a plane from doing a concert all week and come to that platform and preach the word. It’s almost like my own personal Gideon army. LM: Do you have any upcoming films that you are working on?

March 2011

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“When you know that God has given you something special, stand strong with it…Stay focused. It’s gonna break.” DH: Absolutely. I’m really trying to segue into film. I’ve always been a writer. My wife and I have always written movies and theatrical stage plays but nobody ever really asks us what we do outside of music. Nobody ever asks us what’s really your passion. If they had asked me I would have told them. LM: So you’re telling me, that’s really your passion? DH: Oh, absolutely! I’ve always had a passion (for film) even before I was a singer. I want to be the one to give gospel artists a chance to act in their own films because they have followings and people that want to see them in different aspects. So, that’s definitely a passion of mine. We’re shooting two films this year—one my wife wrote, the other I wrote. I keep changing the name of the movie but by the time that we actually produce it, I’ll be settled on the title. LM: Now, you’re a dynamic singer, songwriter, producer, film director and screenwriter. What inspires all of that in Deitrick Haddon? DH: It has to be God and wanting to represent the kingdom of God in a way that people won’t be turned off from it. I just want to contribute my part in making the gospel relevant. I’m an entertainer and I’m a minister and God has showed me how you can do it all under his authority. LM: Any advice for independent artists? DH: When you know that God has given you something special, stand strong with it, be bold about it and keep going forward even against all odds. Stay focused on what God has given you. It’s gonna break. For more information - www.churchonthemoon.com.

Are you

Stage Ready? BY TINA A. FEARS

Voting Extended thru March 2011

www.denisehill.com

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AIRPLAY 360

November 2010

Vocal Health Spring Allergies and Your Voice BY MARK A. WILLIAMS, MD, PhD As the Spring allergy season quickly approaches, it is important for singers and other professional performance voice users to take steps to prevent voice disturbances. Allergies impact the voice with chronic nasal congestion which affect the quality of the voice. In response to allergies, structures in the nose become inflamed and enlarge. This causes obstruction of the nasal passages and that "stuffy nose" sound. In addition to obstruction, the nasal passages become irritated which causes sneezing and postnasal drip. Constant drainage can cause chronic cough and hoarseness. The cough itself can also cause hoarseness. Nasal allergies and postnasal drip are best treated with the use of nasal steroid sprays. These, when properly administered, have very few side effects. In cases if severe allergies, antihistamine medications like Benadryl, and Zyrtec may be required. Be aware that use of antihistamines may dry out the vocal cords and cause problems with your voice. In this case, the individual should consider allergy shots or drops. Mark A. Williams, M.D., Ph.D. is an otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose & Throat doctor) in Nashville, TN. He is the founder of the Voice Care Center of Nashville where he specializes in the prevention and treatment of voice disorders of singers, performers and professional voice users.

March 2011

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YOUR Image

Be Your AUTHENTIC Self BY ADRIAN ANDERSON Hello and new "JOY" to you all! You know, your image and brand can have all the latest technology used to the fullest extent possible and yet there is something that will always be the ultimate determining factor for true success: Authenticity. Your brand is an extension of you and it should feel as natural to you and others as a second skin. Your personality, goals, causes etc. should all line up. Sometimes with the fast pace of life you can get ahead of yourself, fall behind or just place the focus on the wrong things. Thus, the conflict begins. Now the blessing is that you can always stop, clear through the layers and get back to the core purpose of your image and brand.

What is dear to you? How are you benefiting that cause? Who are you collaborating with to strengthen the mission? Being profitable is one aspect of success, yet that will only continue with a genuine platform that's solidly rooted. So, slow down, review where you really are before you promote your product at the next level. Remember, chip away gradually to reveal the masterpiece! I know this is an industry where people are often on to the next hot thing; however, never overlook the value of being the best thing! When you’re the best thing, you’re always the latest— genuinely the greatest! Kindness, Love and Glamour, Adrian

Adrian Anderson is a motivational speaker, beauty entrepreneur and former member of the multi-award winning urban inspirational trio Trin-i-tee 5:7. Follow her on twitter at www.twitter.com/adriansmile.

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INDUSTRY News SongCast Announces New Music Distribution Channel SongCast http://songcastmusic.com is excited to announce the addition of Spotify to their distribution network. Independent musicians, bands and labels will benefit from access to the new partnership and the opportunity to distribute their music through this popular channel. Spotify is an award-winning music service and provides instant access to whatever music you want, whenever and wherever you want it, through a simple, clean and quick to use platform via an ad-supported, free-to-the-user service. Additionally, SongCast has added two new services, iTunes Ping and iTunes Daily Trending Reports for SongCast subscribers. iTunes Ping is a social network created by iTunes with the purpose of allowing consumers to follow their favorite artists. SongCast artists with music live in the iTunes store are now eligible to have a Ping artist account. iTunes Daily Trending Reports are a valuable resource which give artists more insight into how their tracks are selling in the marketplace. These trending files will also show the postal code and country of where the consumer made the transaction, helping the artist predict sales while still relying on monthly sales reports for accurate royalty payment information. Mike Wright, founder of SongCast, said of the announcement â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our artists have requested additional services on SongCast and we are absolutely thrilled to deliver them. We are dedicated to providing solutions to independent artists and at a price they can afford. SongCast will continue to develop its music distribution network and launch even more unique services in the coming weeks ahead". For more information contact: SongCast http://www.songcastmusic.com 2926 State Rd, Suite 111 Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223 330-958-2419 email: info(at)songcastmusic(dot)com www.airplay360.com

INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL SCENE * INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL SCENE * INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL SCENE

Canadian Gospel Music Opportunities Abound for Independent Artists BY KATHY GRANT

anada is a multicultural country. Multiculturalism is the acceptance and promotion of multiple cultures is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Canadian gospel music industry, is a benefactor of these rights. Uniquely, because we are a country that celebrates the cultures of others. We are positioned with multiple dynamic opportunities. It is within this scope that the gospel promoter seeks to promote, not only international gospel artists, but the universal message of Jesus Christ. Coppercoated Entertainment Agency is uniquely positioned as the only gospel music promotions agency in the nation's capital. Access NGO’s, embassies and their power players, position Coppercoated to promote more exhilarating ministry by independent gospel artists. Coppercoated recently sponsored U.S. Gospel Artist April Nevels' first Canadian appearance at the MLK gospel tribute amongst a mix of Jews, Muslims, government officials and ambassadors from other cultures. April was also the first U.S. gospel artist to perform at the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa along with Canadian gospel artist Felicia, to embassy officials and staff. Ottawa Cisco Systems Bluesfest, the second largest Blues festival in North America, has for years been a strong player in highlighting Canadian, U.S. and mainstream gospel artists such as Kathy Grant, Sharon Riley & Faith Chorale as well as U.S. artists Craig Hayes & United Voices, Min. James Hall and Worship & Praise, Group 1 Crew, Tramaine Hawkins, Israel & New Breed and Shirley Caesar. Other regional promoters Extol Music and House of Levi, focusing within the urban gospel genre and contemporary A-listers respectively have promoted artists like Flame, Canton Jones, Fred Hammond, Ricky Dillard, Hezekiah Walker & LFC, Martha Munizzi, Tye Tribbett

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and many more. National promoters Full Capacity Concerts have tackled Canadian secular and gospel artists, such as Divine Brown and Crystal Aiken. Another national promoter, United Productions have serviced among others worship artists such as Vancouver-based Brian Doerksen and U.S. artist Steven Curtis Chapman. Montreal’s Pinnacle Gospel is reputed to be one of Canada's longtime gospel promoters impacting contemporary and Caribbean gospel. Now an authority on Caribbean gospel, CEO Orlando Newton has been a noted figure at the Marlin Awards, Caribbean gospel music's premiere awards program. Newton has opened doors for many Canadian and Caribbean gospel artists to perform at the Barbados Gospelfest and around the Caribbean. Pinnacle, strengthening their reach into Ottawa from the 2003 tour featuring Sherwin Gardner & Papa San now in association with KGM Enterprises is currently promoting a two day tour of Jamaica’s Grammy-nominated reggae icon Judy Mowatt, former member of the I-Threes, the backup group for Bob Marley and the Wailers. This event is being marketed to the audience of rock steady reggae lovers as well as lovers of the Bob Marley music era. Concert dates are April 2 in Ottawa and April 3 in Montreal. The opportunities and availabilities abound. The promotions companies are in place to make it happen for you locally, regionally or nationally.

Kathy Grant is a gospel artist, radio and television host, CEO of KGM Enterprises and founder of Canadian Gospel Music Conference. She is a radio host on Canada’s CHRI 99.1 FM where she hosts a weekly Sunday program called Gospel Groove.

March 2011

YOUR Finances FINANCIAL SPRING CLEANING How to Purge Your Finances BY NICOLE B. SIMPSON, CFP

s you embrace the turn of the seasons in March from winter to spring, it’s a great time to clean out your house to remove the dust that may have gathered on your financial picture. In the cold, dark days of winter, it’s easy to spend during the holiday season and feel the effects of your decisions at the beginning of the New Year. Yet, as the days grow longer, there is a feeling of change in the atmosphere that mentally allows you to adjust your plan of action, shed some expenses and look to lighten the load of debt you may have accumulated. The best way to begin this journey occurs when you file your income tax return. If you are expecting a tax refund, consider purchasing life insurance with the refund to protect your family from unanticipated tragedy. If you purchase a permanent life insurance policy, you are protecting the ones you love and you are saving money for the future. If you consistently receive a tax refund in excess of $3,000 annually, you may want to consider increasing your reportable dependents. Your accountant can determine if you are setting aside too much money throughout the year, make the necessary adjustments giving you an additional $200 or more of take home pay to be used for your monthly expenses. Do you need to save money for retirement but you can’t afford to save during the year? Use your tax return refund to establish an Individual Retirement Account or a Roth Individual Retirement Account. Solicit the advice of a

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financial consultant at your local bank. Many banking institutions offer financial planning services to their banking clientele. Get rid of all of your holiday debt! While I do not condone the accumulation of debt because of the holiday season, I understand people spend money they do not have. Don’t allow your past financial stumbles to interfere with your desire to change your financial future. As soon you eliminate your debt by wiping the slate clean, you can begin to build a strong financial foundation. One final thought. The turn of the season allows you to pursue your goals and dreams through networking and exploring employment opportunities. With the changing of the weather, you may be more willing to hit the pavement to explore all options regarding your future. Take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather. There is still time to lighten the load and get on track to accomplish your New Year resolution. Embrace the breaking of the dawn, shift your mindset and strive to become financially free.

Nicole B. Simpson is a certified financial planner, author, speaker, and disaster planning specialist. She is one of the most inspiring and motivating orientation speakers. A Profile to Success Award recipient by BET.com, Nicole has appeared on Money Matters with Lynn Doyle. Nicole is host of The Power of Gospel www.thepowerofgospel.com www.nicolebsimpson.com

March 2011

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