C r e at i v e I n d e p e n d e n t a r t i s t s A p r i l 2013 i s s u e
this issue: The Business of Entertainment • 7 SECRETS TO A PROFITABLE BUSINESS! • COPYRIGHT LAWS • QUIZ - KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
P r o m o t i n g P e o p l e ’ s pa s s i o n s
Use ID # 1065101
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ASCAP pays members for live performances at venues of any size. You can now receive royalties when your music is performed live at venues of all sizes throughout the country. Just provide the basic details of the performance and which of your songs were performed and you’ll receive an OnStage payment with your normal ASCAP distribution. It’s that simple.
• Payment for each live performance • Track your live performances • Save multiple setlists for easy submission • Available now 24/7 via your Member Access account • Submit your performances on the go via ASCAP Mobile
Make ASCAP OnStage a regular part of your post-show routine, no matter how big or small the venue. c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
www.ascap.com
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Toc
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Up Front
articles
6
24 Copyright Law
From the Top
by Ascap
Publisher’s letter
7
Editor’s Note
8
CONTRIBUTORS
28 Music & Copyright Lesson Plan by Ascap
CIA Entertainment Directory
29 Quiz - Know your
11 ACTORS
72 7 secrets to a
31 music 69 Models
rights! by Ascap
profitable business
by Ramona Benjamin
75 film/production 83 other passions & talents
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A powerhouse band of Funk, Latin, Rock & Jazz!
Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns, the most known UNKNOWN horn band in the world. Ask musicians anywhere in the world about this band and you’re likely to get a surprised look that says “How did YOU know about them!” The Crown Jewel of Las Vegas Nevada, this band has re-set the bar for “horn bands.” Although known and revered as one of (if not THE) most original and prolific of the horn bands in this genre, they are also admired and loved as an extremely talented and versatile vocal group. If you like Tower of Power, Earth, Wind and Fire all kicked up about two notches, then you simply have to see
Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns! Check website for show dates
www.SantaFeandTheFatCityHorns. c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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publisher’s note
from the top
j o h n k ay e - p u b l i s h e r
The illusion of an improving economy still plagues the art and entertainment industry. The cutbacks in the trade of art & entertainment continue. To all of you who continue to pursue your passions regardless, the good news is technology is advancing in your favor. Online publishing, social media optimization, monetization of film and music media to improve public enhancement and appreciation to support art and entertainment are making innovations to put the career of artists back in their hands. It is with great pleasure to announce that remaining independent is the way of the future. CIA Magazines & Associates continue to support you in your endeavors and look forward to hear about all your achievements in the near future.
• Cia Magazines: CiaMagazines.com • CIA Music: CiaArtists.com • CIA Radio: KCIAradio.com
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creative independent artists
E d i t oR ’ s No t e
PUBLISHER J o h n K ay e
e d i to r Dianne Leonet ti
c r e at i v e / p r o d u c t i o n
Dianne Leonetti Ed i to r & C r e at i v e D i r e c to r
D’ziner Graphics
W EB M ASTER J ONATHAN B L A C K B URN
sher bach
In this issue, our editorial department has decided to write about the “business” aspects of the entertainment industry. As a creative person myself, getting lost in the artistic world is very easy to do! It’s where we love to be and why any of us are in this type of industry in the first place. We like performing, singing, designing, creating things... and the “business” portion is secondary, if not last on our list. However, in order to be able to continue to do what we love, we have to make money, run our careers like a business, and know how to survive in this world and especially this economy.
For information, or to submit articles, photographs, or to become a contributor with CIA Magazines, please contact us at: info@ciamagazines.com
We hope that the articles in this issue will help you in your quest to be successful and that you find our publication to be not only entertaining, but educational as well.
INTERNET D ESI G N DAR K L INE IN K
co n t r i b u t i n g w r i t e r s Am y Ly n d o n D r . A n n L at h a n K e r z n e r G L ENN C A M P B E L L Ramona Benjamin
Our goal is to make CIA Magazine the innovative publication to go to for inspiration and information! Here’s wishing all of you much success in your endeavors.
Cia Magazines are published online. Individual copies are available for purchase by “Print-On-Demand” to be shipped worldwide. Copyright ©2011 CIA Magazines. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission. CIA Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. CIA Magazines does not endorse or represent any individual, group, or entity included in this publication. CIA Magazines is not liable for content submitted to CIA Magazines.
CIA MAGAZINE, LLC 2300 W. Sahara Avenue Suite 800 Las Vegas, NV 89102 ADVERTISING 702.334.1606 EMAIL info@Ciamsgsxinrd.com IdeaLine: 424.239.9669 WEB www.CiaMagazines.com
Creatively yours,
“Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art. Making money is art and working is art and good business is the best art. – Andy Warhol
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editorial
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & CREATIVES D r . A n n L at h a n K e r z n e r is the Executive Director at Jonas Music Services, a premier online entertainment marketing firm, where she consults with creative artists, managers, record labels, publicists, promoters, and presenters worldwide. She is also a lecturer in Music Entrepreneurship at William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ. She holds a Ph.D. in Music from the University of Pennsylvania with undergraduate and graduate studies in Music, Marketing, Arts Administration and Sound Engineering Technology. G l e n c a m p b e l l Contributing CIA writer Glenn Campbell has been active in the entertainment industry for over 30 years. Originally a producer and jingle writer for Myriad Productions and Mirror Image Recording Studios in Gainesville, Florida (starting 1991), passion and opportunities eventually led to California and the development of Virtual Wireless Production technologies. Currently vice president of Audio Integrated Research, Glenn continues to reach out to others who desire information on new technologies and all they require to achieve undeniable results. “I believe CIA magazine offers a compelling, attractive medium through which we may effectively share information. I am pleased to be a part of it and simply wish to share value with my friends - old and new. Thank you for reading.” JONATHAN BLAC KBURN - W EB M ASTER A commercial digital and production artist for 10+ years concentrating in of Multimedia/Web/Graphic/Print and Brand Design. His extensive experience spans a wide range in web development, typography, corporate identity, advertising design, digital illustration, photography, and various fine art mediums. His design artistry revolves around blending and implementing traditional painting, mixed media and street art mediums that are transformed into the digital medium to create colorful, wild and vivid expressions. Website: www.darklineink.com
SHER BAC H has been in the music and entertainment business for more than 30 years, both on stage and behind the scenes, working with some of the top rated people in the entertainment world. Sher has worked for several publications, most notably, PlayGirl and Country Weekly Magazines. A self-professed spelling and grammar “Nazi”, she will sometimes send e-mails back with the corrections attached. Currently as a partner with Malla Entertainment Group, Sher has enmeshed herself in the Hollywood scene and the world of film. “Reality Check” is her mantra and she writes with truth and humour. “I want to be a beacon of light for those artists who sometimes find themselves stranded on the dark road of dreams. As an entertainer myself, I know all too well the pitfalls of realizing your passions and achieving your goals, and how devastating the word “no” can be. I hope to be able to show you how to use your mind to create the world you want to live in, but also to live in the a world that is real.” Follow her on Twitter at readyblessedgo. A M Y LYN D ON Lyndon has 40+ films to her credit. She can be seen in 5 LionsGate Feature Films: “B.T.K,” “Bram Stoker’s Dracula’s Guest”, “Chicago Massacre: Richard Speck”, and many others. As a Personal Manager, Lyndon owned and operated the Management Co. for 9 years and has been an International Booking Coach for close to 20. Lyndon created The 15 Guideline Map To Booking Technique and has since helped 1000’s of actors learn how to book jobs. Look for The Lyndon Technique “The 15 Guideline Map To Booking” Handbook at Amazon.com or on her website http://thelyndontechnique.com and check out TLTaccess.com - a site which helps actors understand how to run their business.
R a m o n a B e n j a m i n holds a Master of Science Degree in Information, Management and Com-
munications, an established Tax and Accounting Expert having more than twenty-five years of experience working with Individual and Business Tax Regulations including IRS mandates that can affect all areas of your business. Ramona is known for her knowledge and ability to find ways to enhance the profitability for you or your company; helping you retain more of your hard earned revenue. PA G E 8
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A C T O RS • D A N C ERS • M O DELS • SIN G ERS • MUSI C I A NS SPE C I A LT Y A C TS • C O MEDI A NS • PER F O RMERS • C HILDREN I NDUSTR Y PR O F ESSI O N A LS • PHoT O G R A PHERS • A LL A RTISTS !
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ACTORS FILM MOVIE TELEVISION COMMERCIALS THEATRICAL AND MORE
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ACTORS
Cassie F liege L Tall, blond, blue eyed and talented, Cassie Fliegel is an experienced SAG actress who has appeared in numerous films and TV shows including, “The Office,” “Nip/Tuck,” and National Geographic’s “Locked Up Abroad.” With a background in theater from Harvard University, leading lady looks, superior athletic abilities and charming comedy chops, Cassie is equally comfortable playing action stars, athletes, businesswomen, FBI agents, supermodels and superheroines. Cassie believes that in order to be successful in this business you have to create opportunities to showcase your specific talents. In addition to acting, she is an experienced songwriter and screenwriter, with a feature-length comedy in development. She is also currently recording her latest track, “I’m Thinking,” and will be appearing as the female lead opposite Michael Morano in his hit jazz song, “No One Ever Tells You.” You can catch Cassie’s martial arts skills as the lead in “Karma,” (a short action film) or enjoy her upcoming performance as one of the Victoria’s Secret Angeles in a behind-the-scenes fashion show spoof that Cassie wrote, directed and is set to star in, along with a gorgeous group of look-alike Angels. Of the VS Angel casting process, Cassie jokes, “I’ve never seen my boyfriend so interested in one of my projects.”
CONTACT: cassiefliegel@yahoo.com AGENCY: Almond Talent AGENT: Ann Soussi PHONE: 323-934-5500 EMAIL: info@almondtalent.com PAPA G EG E1212
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ACTORS
L aur a Cuffe Laura Cuffe-(Carrie Hunter)-Laura was born and raised in Connecticut, where she studiedtheatre for many years. She graduated from Eastern Connecticut State University with a B.A. inTheatre. She moved to Los Angeles in spring 2012 to further pursue acting. She has since thenacted in a few short films with New York Film Academy and Video Symphony. She has beenworking with Film Syndicate for several months now and couldn’t be happier. When she’s notbringing vampires to their knees, Laura spends her time auditioning, hiking and running andexploring California with great friends. She is excited for Vampire Killer to hit the streets andgrateful to be working with the Film Syndicate team.
contact info: Anthony Stoppiello Producer 818-518-7528 • astoppiello@gmail.com
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ACTORS
Tan ya B eatt y Profession: Actress, Dancer, Model, Singer-Songwriter Location: Hollywood, California Training: The Acting Center, Hollywood, Ca; BA Dance FIU, Miami, Fl; The Edge, Hollywood, Ca Strengths in drama & dry/dark comedy. Recent roles have been opposite the comedic lead in a Disney Interactive pilot; lead in the comedic webseries “Phil and the ____”; and principle role in a comedic music video for Swedish band the Shout Out Louds with director Hugo Stenson. Tanya’s Dad always called her the son he never had... even though she has two brothers!! Athletic & down to earth, Tanya is also feminine & sensual. Expressing deep emotion comes natural to Tanya, being drawn to complex, deep roles. Broken women with a tragic story, tough independent women, or quirky comedic roles. Tanya is also fascinated by astronomy!
ROLE TYPES Leading ladies: femme fatales, broken women, comedic “dry/dark” or “perky” women Athletic: action star, villains, sports (soccer, volleyball, kayaking, bicycling, hiking, rollerblading) Natural: hippies, countrygirls, Europeans, moms, nurses APPEARING NEXT: Starring as the femme fatale in an adaptation of the comic “Atmospherics”
DIRECT CONTACT: Tanya.Beatty@gmail.com 323-810-3082 AGENCY: East Group Agency AGENT: Goro Hamasaki PHONE: 818-237-9532 EMAIL: eastgroupagency@gmail.com WEBSITE: tanyabeatty.wix.com/actor FACEBOOK: facebook.com/tanyabeatty510
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ACTORS
J ess A da ms Jess is a young actress from Columbus, Ohio. She has made guest appearances on NBCs Community as Jen with Hilary Duff and on Nine Lives of Chloe King as Mimi. She also has done films such as “The Wicked” and “That Thing” with Sarah in such a short time! She has made cameos in many YouTube comedy skits and music videos. She has modeled for Hot Topic clothing, Country Girl, and Bear Paw Shoes. She loves to rock climb, spend time with her puppy, and go to the beach in her spare time. She is known for her positive personality and her smile. She has a passion for comedy as well as drama. She also loves to dance for a good workout and sing her favorite songs. Her twitter link is twitter.com/ THEJessAdams, and you can also find her Facebook Fan Page under her name. She is represented by an amazing team at Beddingfield Management and Innovative Artists.
contact info: MD.Beddingfield.com manager: Michael Dewitt 818.285.7411: email: md.beddingfield@gmail.com agency: innovative artists Melissa Hirschenson 310.656.5100 c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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ACTORS Malina Ge r manova Actor Current Residence: Los Angeles, California
Training: Bulgarian Academy for Film and Television-Varna Film Roles: Highly versatile actor. Credits in different productions around the globe and multiple commercials. Role Types: Dramatic Femme Fatal, Secret Agent, Exotic Girlfriend, Young Professional, Doctor, Detective, Business Woman,Young Mom Local Hire: Los Angeles, Atlanta, Bulgaria
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ACTORS
J o di m ille r Jodi Miller has been performing Stand Up comedy all over the country for over 13 years and is a regular at all the Clubs in Hollywood. She has also entertained the troops in Afghanistan. She is a high energy comic who has a unique take on life. She’s not afraid to push the envelope. Jodi covers everything from cats and dogs, to singer/songwriters and how her dad is desperate to get her knocked up! She’s a reoccurring guest commentator on CNN’s Showbiz Tonight and was recently on The Tonight Show and the Travel Channel series The Traveler’s Guide To Life. Jodi was writer on the Cinemax series Co-Ed Confidential (yes it’s soft porn cause that sh*t doesn’t write itself) and is also the co-author of the WTF Series: WTF College, WTF Work & WTF Women and OMG: GUYS in stores and online now. WTF America will be in stores this summer. She is the producer of the amazing weekly show The “C” Word. Every Monday night @ The World Famous Comedy Store. And just in case you were wondering, yes she has a cat!
For more info: jodimillercomedy.com
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ACTORS
K athry n Ar ian o ffs • Actress • Singer • Dancer • Musician • Bass Player • Songwriter • Voice-Over Talent
I just celebrated one year of performing at the Las Vegas Hilton, in ‘NUNSENSE’ as Sister Robert Anne. This is the most comedic lead I have ever been given, and it is such a blast to sing, dance, act, and listen to laughter every day! I have credits for film, television, and radio, along with an extensive history in theater. I have been a lead in Las Vegas production shows for more than 8 years. One of my favorite LV production shows was an original musical called ‘Tease’. We played ‘strippers’ and were dubbed one of Vegas’s sexiest shows, by E! Entertainment and the Travel Channel, and aired in reruns on both channels for several years. So if I look familiar, perhaps you were up late one night... This magazine is all about passion, and mine is alive in many areas. This year I was inducted into the Las Vegas Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for work I did as a youngster in a fantastic 9 piece horn band that recorded originals, and played at Disneyland and Disneyworld. You may have seen me at the Tropicana Hotel in LV all through the 80’s in an act called ‘Taylor & Taylor’, singing and playing bass. After a career performing in nightclubs and lounges all over the world for more than 20 years, I still perform regularly in ‘copy’ bands doing everything from Lady Gaga to Joan Jett to Diana Krall. This year I have been interviewed several times for KNPR (public radio), as a professional performer in Las Vegas, and on a panel for ‘Hope’. My passion is to participate for the rest of my life!
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J eanne “G igi ” S tanle y Gigi is all about “living, loving, singing, dancing, laughing and adventure...gotta have it all!” Jeanne “Gigi” Stanley comes from a long line of entertainers. “I guess I always had it in my blood!” Gigi’s been in numerous bands: The Stand, Hot Ala Mode, Tux Dentist, Foreign Objects, Vanity Killz, Metropolis, and currently working with K’Sandra. Her genre includes rock, pop, alternative, blues, and even punk! Gigi has played the music circuit in Southern California including the famous Hard Rock,Troubador, Golden Bear, Gazzarri’s, and more. Gigi also performs for large corporate and private events. Gigi was a host for cable show, In Style, and recently appearing in commercials and is expanding her acting career!
Check out her music and videos at: reverbnation.com/foreignobjects FACEBOOK/Gigi-Musician c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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copyrIGhtS, part 1: What’S rIGht for creatIVIty IntroductIon: can’t Get no SatISfactIon Meet Ashley and Brian. They’re both in 9th grade and have just started writing songs together. Recently they co-wrote a song called “Satisfaction” and made a simple recording of it on Brian’s computer. They proudly sent an mp3 of their creation to a bunch of friends. Two weeks later, Brian called Ashley saying, “Hey! Why did you send our song to Burger Bonanza?” “I didn’t!” Ashley exclaimed. But, sure enough, when she went to the Burger Bonanza web site, there was “Satisfaction” playing loud and clear on the home page. Ashley and Brian were mad—they didn’t even like BB burgers! They wanted their song back, but they wondered if they even had a right to complain. Did they? You bet they did. Ashley and Brian’s story presents a lot of important lessons about copyrights, and understanding these lessons can help you to make the most of your own music. What IS a copyrIGht? A copyright is a type of legal protection for creators of intellectual property. It gives those creators exclusive rights to control the use of their works for a period of time. Copyrighted intellectual property can be photographs, movies, novels, plays, paintings, songs, symphonies, architectural plans, and many other forms of creative expression—and the creator can be absolutely anyone, including Pink, Justin Timberlake, or you.
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Why do copyrIGhtS matter? Artists, writers, and composers put a lot of work into their creations, practicing and revising for hours, weeks, or sometimes years to get the details exactly right. Just as a great meal in a restaurant or a beautiful dress in a store has a price, a creative work has financial worth as well. That’s why books, paintings, and mp3s are sold, too. Copyrights exist to ensure that creators have their say about who gets to use their works—and that they can get paid when those works are used. If they didn’t get paid, many creative people could not afford to keep creating. So, according to copyright law, Ashley and Brian were entitled to decide whether or not Burger Bonanza could stream their song on the company’s web site. And guess what? Both the burger company and the friend who sent them the song broke that law. And every time the mp3 of “Satisfaction” was copied and given to a new person, Ashley and Brian—the song’s copyright owners—deserve to have been paid a fair price for their work. That’s why copyrights have two types of power: (1) they acknowledge the importance of creative people, by protecting their rights, and (2) they insure that creative people get paid money that they deserve.
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copyrIGhtS, part 2: Who, What, When & Where? What can be copyrIGhted? In order for something to be copyrighted, it has to meet two requirements: it must be an original piece of work and it must be fixed in a tangible medium of expression. So, a song playing in your head or a live performance of a song that hasn't yet be written down or recorded is not copyrighted—and neither are ideas and concepts for a musical project or a single word or phrase, such as a song or album title. (That’s why Ashley and Brian's use of the title “Satisfaction,” which was already the title of a famous Rolling Stones song did not violate copyright law.) To be copyrightable, a song or other piece of music must be transcribed on paper or recorded. mInd your c’S & p’S For songs, there are two kinds of copyright: one for a musical composition (indicated by ©) and one for a sound recording (indicated by π). These two copyrights might be owned by the same person or by two different people. For example, if Jack Johnson recorded a song that he also wrote, then he would own the copyrights for both the composition and the sound recording. But if Ne-Yo recorded that song, then Johnson would still own the composition copyright but Ne-Yo would own the copyright for the new recording. When two people create a song together, they share the copyright. In Ashley and Brian’s case, the two jointly owned both the © and the π. company’S comInG When a musician or songwriter is represented by a record label or a music publisher, those companies participate in the copyright ownership. For example, when a record label provides the money for an artist to record a CD under a record deal, usually that label will own the master recording (the recording from which all duplicate copies are made). This means that the record label controls the sound recording copyright and receives a portion of the income that the recording earns. Similarly, when a songwriter is signed to a music publisher under a publishing deal, the publisher is entitled to own a certain percentage of each of the writer’s song composition copyrights. In return, the publisher finds ways
to make money from the writer's songs (in films and TV shows, on other recordings, etc.) and shares this income with the songwriter. doeS a copyrIGht laSt foreVer? For anything created after 1978, both types of copyright last for the life of the creator plus 70 years. That means that the works of any currently living songwriters or composers—no matter what their age, genre, or level of success—can all be copyrighted. After the term, or period of copyright, is over, the work moves into the public domain, meaning that it is now owned by the public. Songs that were written long ago, like “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”—as well as many pieces of classical music— are all in the public domain so they may be used by anyone, anywhere, and in any way. copyrIGhtS & cake There’s one very old song, though, whose copyright is still current, and it is one of the most valuable copyrights in existence. It’s a little tune you know very well called…"Happy Birthday to You!” Written by schoolteacher Mildred J. Hill and her sister, Dr. Patty Smith Hill, in 1893 as a classroom greeting song, the lyrics were originally “Good morning to you/Good morning to you/Good morning dear children/Good morning to all.” The song went through a couple of revisions and was later published again in 1933 as “Happy Birthday.” The song was used many times without crediting the Hills until 1935, when the sisters finally gained the copyright. While Mildred Hill had already passed away, Patty was able to benefit from the song’s earnings until her death. You might think that “Happy Birthday” is a silly little ditty that wouldn’t be worth nearly as much as the latest Black Eyed Peas hit. But consider this: every time someone sings even one line of the song in a movie or TV show, or any time a greeting card or music box playing the song is sold, the estate of the Hill sisters earns a small royalty. In the United States alone, the song is used commercially millions times per year, so those little payments really add up: the song earns over $2 million each year. Now that’s something to celebrate!
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copyrIGhtS, part 3: proof & paymentS hoW to copyrIGht a SonG By law, a song or piece of music is copyrighted the moment it is written down on paper or recorded. However, to insure that you have proof that a copyright is yours, you can and should register your copyrights with the United States Copyright Office in Washington, D.C. The simplest way to register your copyrights is by using the U.S. Copyright Office eCO Online System (you will need to pay registration fees with a credit card)—go to: www.copyright.gov/eco The advantages of registering online include: * Lower filing fee of $35 for a basic claim (for online filings only) * Fastest processing time * Online status tracking * Secure payment by credit or debit card, electronic check, or Copyright Office deposit account * The service is available 24 hours a day You can alternatively register through the mail using fillin form CO, available on the Copyright Office website. Instructions for filing are detailed in Circular 50—available at: www.copyright.gov/circs/circ50.pdf If you have questions, you can call the Copyright Office from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST at: (202) 707-3000
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What If you don’t reGISter a copyrIGht? If you don’t register your copyrights with the U.S. Copyright Office, you will still be entitled to the rights and privileges provided by the copyright law, however, you might find yourself in a situation where it is difficult to prove that you are the copyright holder of those songs and you will be unable to take advantage of legal remedies. Ashley and Brian did not have their song copyright registered, but they got lucky: with the email to which they initially attached their mp3 for their friends, they could document that the song originated from them However, you may not be as lucky, so it's a good idea to register your original songs. hoW the "pros" help you Get paId Just as recording artists are paid royalties based on how many copies of their recordings are sold, songwriters are paid royalties when their copyrighted music is performed publicly—that is, when it is broadcast on radio or television or when it is played in restaurants, malls, or other public venues. Here's how it works: Songwriters and music publishers with copyrighted works become members of a performing rights organization (PRO). The PROs ongoingly collect licensing fees from radio and television stations and other businesses that use music. Then each PRO distributes the money it collects to its songwriter and publisher members. There are three PROs in the United States: ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC. For more information about PROs and how they help songwriters, visit www.ascap.com/about.
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copyrIGhtS, part 4: 'rIGhtS & WronGS leGal loW-doWn When a copyright holder’s rights are violated—for example, when a song is distributed without the creator’s permission—that is called infringement. Infringement could include unauthorized copying, selling, or downloading a recording. As you might expect, breaking the copyright laws in this way results in a penalty: those who infringe are required to pay fines and, depending on the severity of the infringement, might even face serving time in jail. What you might not realize, though, is that those who help the infringers can also be subject to penalties. So, the friend who sent Ashley and Brian’s song to Burger Bonanza was just as guilty of infringement as was the burger company. be a team player If sharing recordings helps the world get to know an artist’s music, then why would it ever be bad? Consider this: songwriters and composers work very hard to create their artistic work and they often invest a significant amount of money in years of lessons, instruments and gear, studio time, and many other music-related expenses. Shouldn’t they be able to earn money for the wonderful work they do? In addition, a whole team of other people help to bring a recording to our attention—that team includes recording engineers, music publishers, record label staff, record store (or online store) employees, producers, music publicists, and more. When you acquire new music without paying for it, all of these people lose some of their well-deserved income. In fact, if they stopped earning money for the music they work on, many people on this big team would have to find other work, and songwriters and composers might not be able to create any new music—which would be very sad for all of us. Remember, many songs that you know and love were written by someone—or a group of people—other than the recording artist, and they, as well as the entire team that helped to release the recording, deserve to get paid so that they can make a living and support their families. may I, pleaSe? The key to sorting the copyrights from the wrongs is to get permission from the creators. When in doubt, ask. Who do you contact? Look for the person or company listed after the © or π on the sheet music, CD booklet, iTunes page, or online store page—that’s who can give you approval
for the use of that music. The PROs also list the copyright owners for many songs on their websites. A database of songs can be found online at www.ascap.com/ace/. And, when you request permission, you’ll be in good company. When Kanye West sampled part of Michael Jackson’s “PYT” for his recording of “Good Life,” he had to pay money to Jackson’s music publisher and record label, both of which represented Jackson and distributed income to him. And when director Drew Barrymore wanted to include “Pot Kettle Black” by indie-pop quintet Tilly and the Wall on the Whip It film soundtrack and soundtrack album, she had to pay a licensing fee and get approval, too. faIr IS faIr It might be confusing to determine when it’s ok to share or use someone’s music without paying for it, and when it’s an instance of infringement. After all, aren’t songs sampled all the time? And aren’t song clips streamed on iTunes, Amazon. com, and many other web sites? What about just playing music for a friend, or performing it at a concert? That can’t be wrong, can it? Well, the copyright law sets out what is okay and what's not. In most cases, using copyrighted music you do not own for purposes other than your own private enjoyment requires permission. But not always. Your jam and listening sessions with your friends are perfectly allowed—and great!—to do. That's because the law only protects public performances. And, of course, if it's your own original music, you can do whatever you want with it—that's the power of copyright. Also, there are some very specific exceptions to the restrictions of copyright law, where the distribution or inclusion of a copyrighted work may be considered fair use. These would include the use of music for news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research—in these cases, permission from the copyright owner is not necessary. Using a short excerpt of a song or piece of instrumental music may at times be considered fair use as well. But not always: it depends on how you use the music. For example, online stores and web-based companies streaming those clips pay fees to copyright owners for the privilege to do so. And permission must be granted by the copyright holders to sample or otherwise incorporate a portion of a song (of any length) in a new musical work.
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leSSon plan: muSIc & copyrIGht This lesson plan supports MENC National Standards 6 & 8 objectIVeS • Understand the relationship between music & copyright (NS 6, 8) • Understand music fair use and music copyright infringement (NS 8) • Identify the copyright owners of various musical compositions (NS 8) • Evaluate the consequences of free music downloading (NS 8) materIalS • “Copyrights: What's Right for Creativity” handouts 1 through 4 • “Know Your ’Rights” quiz Start 1. Begin class by going around the classroom and asking students to name any type of thing they have made or created. (This could include such diverse things as a cake, a photograph, a piece of jewelry, a drawing, a pet collar, a class presentation, a book report, a recital performance, etc.) . List students’ responses on the board. aSk Who owns each of these creative works? (Answers will vary) Point out that some of the works might be gone (e.g. the cake), some might be owned by a second person (a gift), and some might be owned by the respective creators. 2. Direct students to raise their hands if they have ever heard of copyright. Ask for a volunteer to define copyright for the class. 3. Invite students to consider which things listed on the board could be copyrighted. Place a check next to each item that students feel could carry a copyright. deVelop 1. Invite students to read the “Copyrights” handouts either taking turns aloud, quietly aloud in pairs, or silently, depending on their abilities. 2. Review the highlighted vocabulary and terms as a class. Call on students to explain these terms in their own words: copyright / intellectual property / “tangible medium of expression” / copyright registration / copyright holder / copyright term / public domain / fair use
4. Remind students that the invention of the Web and the ability to download music have increased people’s awareness of music copyright issues. aSk have you downloaded music from the Web? (Most if not all of your students have likely done this) did you pay for the music you downloaded? did you feel that the price you paid for the music was fair? Were you aware of the music’s copyright owners when you downloaded the music? 5. Divide the class into two groups and tell them they are going to participate in an organized debate about music downloading. Have the first group assert that free music downloading is a good practice and should be permissible; direct the second group to assert that free music downloading is a bad practice and is against the (copyright) law. Allow time for the groups to discuss and organize the points that they will make to argue for their opinion. Encourage students to consider whether or not the following factors matter in this debate: • How many songs someone wishes to download • H0w the downloaded songs will be used • How much money the downloader has • How much money the songwriter or recording artist seems to have • Whether the recording is released by a record label or by the songwriter/artist directly Guide students in discussing varied and potentially dissenting views in a mature and respectful manner. aSk Were you arguing your actual point of view or something you don’t agree with? did the points made in this debate change your point of view about downloading at all? (Accept various answers) cloSe 1. Distribute copies of the “Know Your ‘Rights” quiz. Allow time for students to complete the quiz. Discuss the answers as a class.
aSSeSS did students participate in discussions? did they use music copyright terms properly? could they argue for or against free downloading? did they complete the quiz? c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
3. Lead a discussion about the following real or proposed recordings. Challenge students to identify who the copyright holder(s) would be. Encourage students to research specific songwriters and/or record labels if time permits: PA G E 28
• Bruce Springsteen performing “Silent Night” • Madonna performing “Don't Cry for Me, Argentina” • The mash-up of “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” and “Young Girl” from the Glee soundtrack
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QuIZ: knoW your 'rIGhtS How much have you learned about copyrights? Take this quiz and find out.
1. For how long does a copyright provide protection? _________________________________________________________________________________ 2. What does “π” signify? _________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Connor and Joey have put together a truly original musical number for their school talent show. Can they register a copyright for the performance in the show? _________________________________________________________________________________ 4. True or False: John Lennon is now dead, so songs he wrote are in the public domain. _________________________________________________________________________________ 5. When is performing someone else’s song an infringement of copyright and when is it OK? _________________________________________________________________________________ 6. Why is free downloading of a song unfair to the person or people who wrote it? _________________________________________________________________________________ 7. When do you technically become a copyright owner? _________________________________________________________________________________ 8. Elena wrote a song and wants to call it “The Way We Were” but found out there’s already a famous song with that name. Is she violating copyright law by using the title? _________________________________________________________________________________ 9. How could illegal downloading affect the amount of music available in the future? _________________________________________________________________________________ 10. You recorded a unique blues version of “Waiting for the World to Change” so you own the copyright of the new recording, not John Mayer—right? _________________________________________________________________________________ PA G E 29 c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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SINGERS BANDS MUSICIANS STUDIO & MORE
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Alastai r Gr eene
Guitarist, Singer, and Songwriter Alastair Greene has been a mainstay of the Southern California music scene for over 2 decades. Alastair is best known for his blues-based, soulful, and melodic guitar playing (as well as one of a rare-breed to play slide guitar), Alastair can be heard on CDs by Alan Parsons (2006 Grammy Nominated ‘A Valid Path’); Aynsley Dunbar (2008 SPV Records release ‘Mutiny’); Blues singer, harmonica legend, and former member of WAR, Mitch Kashmar (2005 ‘Wake Up and Worry’ on Delta Groove Records), as well as French Blues Guitarist Franck Golwasser’s 2007 release ‘Bluju.’
The Alastair Greene Band was formed in 1997 and has always played a combination of original material as well as covers. Whether with his own band or as part of others, Alastair has opened shows for The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Robin Trower, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, Lonnie Brooks, Chris Thomas King, Lucky Petersen, Jonny Lang, Billy Boy Arnold, Joe Bonamassa, and many more. The Alastair Greene Band was the only unsigned act to play the main stage at the 2010 Sonora Blues Festival.
Alastair released the Blues CD ‘Walking In Circles’ in June 2009 and accepted an offer to be the full time guitarist in the Alan Parsons Live Project in January 2010. T The Hard Rock CD ‘Through The Rain’ was released November 11th, 2011 on LeRoi Records and includes the single ‘By The Way’ which was nominated for Single Of The Year by the Los Angeles Music Awards.
dougdeutschpr@gmail.com • 213-924-4901 PA G E 32
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CHAR LES BU RT O N Born in Los Angeles in 1958, Charles Burton plays with fire, and when he does, his articulation and phrasing are instantly recognizable. This tall drink of water has been playing Blues, Country, Rock, and Roots music for over forty years. He has played lead guitar in Country bands in Los Angeles (1970’s), Honolulu (1980’s), Tokyo (1990’s), and Fresno, California. He headlined the Fresno Blues Festival playing with the late great Hosea Leavy in 1995. As a blues guitarist and singer, he has released four CDs with the Charles Burton Blues Band, and has toured Europe headlining festivals, culture houses, and clubs twice a year since 2005. In 2007/2008 he toured Scandinavia with Maury “Hooter” Saslaff (Big Jack Johnson and the Oilers), playing over 200 gigs in seven months! In 2009 he won San Diego’s International Blues Challenge finals. That same year he took first place in San Diego’s King of the Blues competition. Widely regarded as the best blues guitarist in San Diego, Charles is San Diego’s Blues Ambassador to the world.
619 971 0958 • cburton1717@gmail.com
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NEIL HAR NETT �Neil Harnett has enjoyed such highlights as a Juno Nomination, three singles on the Canadian charts, three full length CDs, three videos with national exposure and shared concert billings with Jeff Healey, Chuck Berry and The Doobie Brothers. In the spring of 1989 Neil signed with Bruce Allen’s Penta label. Neil’s debut CD, Times Like These, met with enthusiastic response with two tracks in the Top Ten of the Canadian AC charts. Neil was nominated for a Juno Award as Most Promising Male Vocalist in 1990. National interest in Neil was at a peak when Penta suddenly folded. In mid-1995, finally free of the contractual red tape, Neil released a self-produced follow-up album, Rubber Room Day, which received positive reviews and two supporting videos received maximum rotation on CMT. Brant Zwicker of CFBX 92.5 FM Kamloops - “...Neil is one of those rare and talented singer-songwriters who are equal parts of both – first-rate vocalist and composer – and when his tasty guitar playing is added to the mix, it simply does not get any better. Whether performing solo or with a band, Harnett can rock the house, and then turn around and break your heart with but a song...” In 2009 Neil released his new CD, Somewhere, which has received airplay throughout the world. The tunes from Somewhere are a testament to Neil’s musical depth and diversity, encompassing rock, blues, folk and roots music, all showcasing Neil’s world-class, soulful vocals and guitar work. Whether solo or with a band, Neil is well known for his relaxed audience rapport and engaging, passionate performances.
neil@neilharnett.com • 604 728-9451 PA G E 34
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L E R E V E RIE Le Reverie was founded in early 2010 by singer Allie Jorgen, Keyboardist “The Mysterious O.G.” and Drummer Roc Boyum. Allie met The Mysterious “O.G.” in a club and together with L.A. Drummer Roc, they decided to start a Gothic/Metal Rock band, and Allie knew that her vocals and lyrics would fit Mysterious O’s haunting melodies perfectly. Le Reverie recorded their 3-song EP “Truth & Lies” with Legendary Producer, Ron Nevison, (Led Zeppelin, The Who, Heart just to name a few) at the Famous East West Studios in Hollywood, California. The first song off the EP, “Hold Me Down” won the award for “Breakout Single of the Year” from the Los Angeles Music Awards, and the Award was presented to Le Reverie on the Red Carpet at the Paramount Pictures Studios in Hollywood, California and was played on internet radio and radio stations worldwide. Ron Nevison recently said of Le Reverie – “Le Reverie is an amazing assortment of musicians and songwriters fronted by Allie Jorgen, destined to be on top! 2012, the Critically Acclaimed and Long Awaited CD “Dark Symphony” was released. Dark Symphony is a combination of Symphony, Goth Rock, Metal and Progressive Rock and will take you on an amazing journey from the symphonic musical elegance of “La Naissance” to the dark, heavy/progressive title track, “Dark Symphony” to the tender ballad “Ghost of You” and the haunting tribute to Edgar Allan Poe himself, “Raven”. The CD was produced by the Band’s Guitarist Jeff Mallow and Le Reverie, and the first pressing of the CD also includes a free DVD of their Gothic Video of the song “Hold Me Down”.
The CD is available on the band’s website lereverie.com and iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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S COTT MA CKAY What began for Scott MacKay as casual weekly guitar lessons quickly grew into a true passion for singing and songwriting. Scott MacKay a native of Mt. Herbert, PEI, began exploring his musical talents upon entering university and today has completed his first EP, Dressed in Blue. As an emerging songwriter Scott places the focus on his lyrics, using music as the vehicle to carry the message. He hopes his carefully crafted lyrics will invite emotions from his listeners. His songs touch on several topics universal to us all such as love found, faded, and lost. Scott doesn’t shy away from topics that are uneasy and plans on exploring the uncomfortable as a means to grow personally, as well as a musician, and connect with his audience at more than just a surface level.
Meaghan Blanchard- “Scott MacKay has a voice that soothes and croons. A voice that will blow over your skin like a warm breeze. Although just stepping into the spotlight; Scott’s name will soon roll off the tongues of music lovers all over.”
Website: scottmackay.ca Twitter: ScottDennisMacK Facebook: Scott MacKay Music Email: info@scottmackay.ca Phone: (403) 483-7122 PA G E 36
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S T I TCHED U P H EA RT Hailing from Hollywood, California, Stitched Up Heart’s passion explodes in an uproar of crunchy guitars, haunting melodies, driving rhythms and anthemic songs. Furious and ultimately rapturous performances led by singer extraordinaire, Mixi, have captivated fans across the nation and around the world. With Warped Tour, SXSW and other festival performances, as well a 10 state US tour under their belt, the aggressive drive behind this band is tantamount to our ultimate goal of universal conquest. Tours in 2013 will support the release of a new EP “Skeleton Key”, currently being produced by Clayton Ryan (Davey Suicide, Natural Born Killers). A violent cacophony of fiery charged emotions makes Stitched Up Heart a dangerously volatile maniacal machine that commands YOUR attention.
facebook.com/StitchedUpHeartRock reverbnation.com/StitchedUpHeart YouTube.com/StitchedUpHeartRock itunes.com/StitchedUpHeart
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J. C . HYKE J.C. Hyke is an ASCAP singer songwriter from Pasadena, CA. He plays as a solo acoustic act around Southern California. Before moving back to LA, he performed around the Seattle area with his band “The Gambling Scarecrows” for 4 years. Prior to that, he spent 3 years in Nashville living on Music Row honing the craft of songwriting. J.C. has a rich, deep, traditional country voice and plays acoustic rhythm guitar. He has a fantastic repertoire of original music and a highly acclaimed debut album. In Seattle, he opened for major country acts Brad Paisley and Montgomery Gentry. He also produces and hosts the weekly show, The Songwriter Serenade which features 4 different songwriters each week. J.C. is currently trying to get his songs into film and television shows. J.C. just released his new single “The Tip Jar Song” which is available on iTunes. He hopes it will someday become a bar room standard helping musicians make more money. “It cures the epidemic of an empty tip jar” says J.C. When he has sat in and played the song live for other band’s shows, he has quadrupled the amount of money in their tip jar. This song is a “giving song” to people trying to make a living at music. Not only that, the song is a fun, uptempo, lively song that makes you want to yell “Yeehaw” and dance.
JCHyke.com jc@jchyke.com The Tip Jar Song itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-tip-jar-song
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J E MMA L O UIS Jemma was born in Sydney Australia 16 years ago, moving to Los Angeles in 2009 to attend The Los Angeles School of the Arts. She has been singing since she could talk and has studied music with a range of coaches and producers including jazz and classical training. Her love of music extends to rnb, pop and dance with a passion for jazz. Jemma has performed extensively throughout Australia, California, Las Vegas, Puerto Rico and China. She is happiest on stage bringing her soulful, powerhouse vocals to appreciative audiences. Currently working with girl group ‘Fine Chynah’, Jemma is also carving out time for solo projects and to graduate high school!. Jemma is a true ‘triple threat’ with both natural gifts and skills developed over time. She sings, writes, plays piano, dances and acts. Jemma hopes to achieve success globally in the coming years. She is excited about her journey and all of the amazing people she is meeting.
jemmalouis.com kim.louis-pankey@hotmail.com Phone: 562 235 7257 c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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J ENNY STAMP ER Hey y’all! My name is Jenny Stamper and I am a singer-songwriter. I have been on stage for over fifteen years with a female acoustic duo known as Justus. We continue to perform throughout Southern Ohio and are eagerly planning a trip to Nashville in April 2012 to kick start the release of our new CD, “Diamonds on the Water.” I was raised in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. My hometown is Hindman, which is the county seat for Knott county. Of course, I’ve had many influences throughout the years. And yes, there were the “hair band” days. I was told many times to turn down the Led Zeppelin, AC/DC and Aerosmith that was blaring from my bedroom. Although I still love those bands, I cut my teeth on bluegrass. When I heard Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley, or Larry Sparks playing throughout our family home, well, I knew Mommy was having a good day. Later, my influences became Wynonna Judd, Bonnie Raitt, and other strong, talented women that had “made it in the business”. I especially enjoy artists who sing about my beloved Kentucky home. After several years performing original and cover music, I am excited to focus more on song writing and sharing my stories with a larger audience. I am proud to be a member of the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International and look forward to additional networking with other professionals. I am seeking opportunities in the music industry, to include placement of music in film and television.
JennyStamper.com jennystamper@ymail.com PA G E 40
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J o nny com e lately Consisting of four friends who love to play music and only juniors in college, Jonny Come Lately displays more musical talent than most bands twice their age. Formed in 2006, the band includes Izzy Loya (lead vocals & guitar), Angela Ross (drums), Julian Johnson (stand-up bass), and Adrian Johnson (guitar & harmonica). Jonny Come Lately received national recognition when they were contestants on season two of NBC’s hit show “America’s Got Talent”. They knocked off thousands of other acts on their way to establishing a place in the show’s “Top 20 in America”. Since then, Jonny Come Lately has headlined at the L.A. County Fair, and performed at countless festivals and venues throughout California. The band’s love of music from all over the world has created a sound that’s different, hard driving, groovy, and thought provoking. Their original music fuses the genres of rockabilly, ska, blues, and surf, spiced with eastern and Latin influences. In early 2010, Jonny Come Lately recorded their first EP of original music. Their music can be listened to online on their website, Facebook, Spotify, or on CDs. Jonny Come Lately continues to demonstrate the young musical talent seen all over America.
FOR BOOKING INFO CONTACT: musicbyjcl@gmail.com OR bigdogmusic@roadrunner.com jonnycomelately.com facebook /jonny come lately c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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judge jac ks on band If you’re a living, breathing rock and roll diehard with a pulse just about anywhere across this great country of ours—no one embodies that drive, determination and lifestyle better than JUDGE JACKSON, whose balls-to-the-wall classic take on a noble tradition is the soundtrack to your life. For more than a decade, through five albums, a thousand shows and tours with Gov’t Mule, Doobie Bros., Cheap Trick, Buckcherry, Army of Anyone, UFO and Joe Bonamassa, among others, this hard-driving quartet’s music can be heard on a variety of TV shows, including the Super Bowl, NHL and NBA playoffs, and NASCAR. JUDGE JACKSON began in 1995, when vocalist/lyricist McTavish, who came to town from Canada, where he once played in a band that featured Shania Twain as back-up vocalist, joined guitarist/songwriter Jackson in L.A. to tirelessly play the town’s club circuit. By 1998, the band released its debut album, followed by a second CD, 8068. Drummer Garcia joined the group after the release of JUDGE JACKSON’s third CD, One Diamond, which marked the band’s multimedia breakthrough, with “Amazing” receiving airplay across the U.S., while “Times Been Changing” was featured on NBC’s popular comedy My Name Is Earl. And while they’ve been the best-kept secret on the L.A. rock scene, JUDGE JACKSON is gaining recognition. The group’s last album, Drive was named “Best CD of the Year” in the 5th Annual All Access Magazine Awards. Since then, the group has added bassist Brian James, formerly of The Rocking Scoundrels and Stone, to replace longtime member Ryan Rogers. Judge Jackson is currently in the studio working on the next record, playing dates with Tesla and wrapping up an exclusive music video production and interview series for schools across Canada and the US.
info@galaxymarketingandevents.com
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r o nny n ort h Ronny North plays his own signature brand of instrumental guitar rock and is fast becoming a southern California guitar hero. He won the Best Male Guitarist Award at the 2006 All Access Magazine Music Awards and has appeared in and has been featured in several national and international music publications such as Guitar Player Magazine, Young Guitar Magazine (Japan), MMR Magazine, Performer Magazine, Player Magazine (Japan), Music Connection Magazine, Flash Magazine from Italy, Modern Guitar Magazine, Muen Magazine, Premier Guitar Magazine, Guitar World Magazine, All Access Magazine, Verde Valley Independent, and Fireworks Magazine from Europe. (He is also featured on the Fireworks compilation CD that comes with the magazine.) In April 2007, he was featured in Guitar Player Magazine where GP magazine head editor Michael Molenda said some very complimentary things about Ronny’s playing. Ronny was honored with his own Ronny North Day at his old high school Norwalk High in Norwalk, California on April 7th, 2009.
Definitely check out Ronny and see what all the excitement is about. He’s tomorrow’s guitar hero today…… 562 214 5075 (Ronny North Hotline for public) ronnynorth.com facebook.com/ronnynorth c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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T RACY DANN Nicki Gillis is an Australia entertainer whose music is catchy and vibrant. Her songs are strong and provide hope and guidance for people who feel they are forgotten. Her every performance shows that a real woman can still exude the sensuality and confidence that is so often forgotten, but not necessarily lost, by women today. Nicki is very much in the mould of Nancy Sinatra, Shania Twain and Annie Lennox. She is a strong and confident entertainer who proves that class and style still exist in these modern times. Nicki’s resume includes numerous awards, including the Australian Entertainment Industry award for Best Country Performer. She has also had chart success in Australia and Europe with a No. 1 hit on the UK country charts with “Be A Star”, a cheeky upbeat song written herself that depicts her life as a performer and advice given along the way. The song remained at No.1 for four weeks and on the charts for 14 weeks. Nicki has toured and performed in many parts of the world including Australia, Britain, Germany, USA, New Zealand, she has also entertained troops in the Middle East, Solomon Islands and East Timor. Nicki’s stage experience shines and she can mould a show to suit just about any audience. Nicki’s live shows are a blended mix of original and classic songs that make the audience feel positive, enlightened, happy and confident. Songs that prove mature women can still be a meaningful force in society today.
info@nickigillis.com! +1(901)254-7813! nickigillis.com PA G E 44
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r o y ce nels on Royce has lived for the stage since her first taste as a young toddler, tip toeing in tap shoes in front of a few hundred people. However, she discovered her true passion for singing as a 10 year old at summer camp belting out tunes on the stage for the first time. “It combined my two favorite things: the stage and a rush I could only feel from singing my heart out,” Royce says as she reminisces. By the age of 13, she was working in the studio with songwriter/producer Karen Tobin, and in 2004 she won a Golden Globe for singing background vocals on a song sung by Mick Jagger for the movie “Alfie” called “Old Habits Die Hard”. She went on to record demos and back-up vocals for many producers, songwriters, and artists including Dave Stewart, Lois Blaisch (writer of Tiffany’s 1988 #1 hit single “Could’ve Been”), Mick Jagger, Sheryl Crow, and Candyman 187. To date, she has performed in venues all over Los Angeles including The House of Blues, The Viper Room, The Roxy, and The Whiskey-A-Go-Go. She has also fronted her fair share of bands and been in few girl groups (most recently BG4 produced by Bobby Jones and Shane Sparks of “So You Think You Can Dance”). She is currently writing for other artists while also embarking on a Pop/Rock solo career cowriting her newest originals with songwriter Peter Hanna (writer of “Hollywood Girl” for the Hollywood Insider and Mitchel Musso’s new record “Get Away”.)
RoyceOfficial@gmail.com Royceofficial.com c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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l o uis pr i ma jr. Long before Brian Setzer’s “Jump, Jive an’ Wail,” David Lee Roth’s “Just A Gigolo,” and the motion picture SWINGERS, paving the way was the originator, the great Louis Prima. Louis Prima, Jr. brings his famous father’s music back to life, with an energetic performance and the unique, first hand perspective of being the son of a music legend. Louis Prima was the original Sicilian “King of Swing.” His exuberant personality and energetic, raucous show, sold out venues across the nation for 50 years. Louis Prima and the Witnesses became a legendary landmark during the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Like most High Rollers and celebrities, even the famed Rat Pack were regulars at the “Wildest Show” in Vegas. With hits like “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail,” “Angelina,” “Just a Gigolo,” “That Old Black Magic,” “Buona Sera,” “When You’re Smiling” and “Sing, Sing, Sing,” the shows remained sold out for years. Louis Prima Jr. performs an electric tribute to his father’s popular Vegas show. In the vein of his father, Prima Jr. has put together a show with a swinging and rocking band that will “jive” you crazy with the feel of the “Wildest Show” in Vegas. Louis Prima Jr.’s debut CD will be released worldwide in June 2012 through Warrior Records/Universal Music.
louisprimajr.com for all the latest news/info/tour dates PA G E 46
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L E AH MCH EN RY Some have described LEAH as the “ENYA of heavy metal” and others say her music sounds like “Loreena McKennitt meets Delain.” One thing is for sure: LEAH’s voice will play the strings of the most brutal of hearts, causing them to melt into submission. From ethereal ballads to folk-tales, mysterious world instrumentation, and operatic blast beats, LEAH’s debut album is not to be forgotten. Many lovers of Celtic music and symphonic metal say she has become the best music discovery of 2012/2013, listing LEAH alongside bands such as Delain, Xandria, and Epica. While homeschooling her four children and raising a family full-time, LEAH took two years to complete her masterpiece. “Of Earth & Angels” was released with HMP out of Vancouver, BC in June 2012. What followed in the months after was a slew of raving reviews, tweets and blogs, hundreds of plays on multiple internet radio stations, online magazine features, interviews, downloads, and a huge following from all over the globe. LEAH succeeded in her quest to fuse together her influences... and the world loved it! Purely through word-of-mouth and social media LEAH has attracted a global audience and landed on the popular Metal Storm Awards 2012 list! LEAH has no intention of stopping now. More inspired than ever, LEAH is moving forward with plans for future albums and appearances, digging deeper and carving a more distinct path. LEAH has only begun to make her mark; the world is taking notice.
CONTACT: TRENT REYNOLDS +1-604-861-2279 TRENT@TUNECITY.COM TUNECITY.COM c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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sand r a lee Sandra Lee is an independent singer/songwriter,music video producer and artist manager living in Nashville, TN. She began writing and playing guitar at an early age and has since worked with some of Nashville’s most prolific songwriters. Sandra Lee was part of a mother-daughter duo performing with her daughter, (Country Music artist, Brittini Black), for several years. The duo opened shows for Lonestar, Kenny Chesney, Kenny Rogers, Brian White, Sammy Kershaw, Billy Ray Cyrus, Wade Hayes, Rick Trevino and Diamond Rio (at the Grand Ole’ Opry), to name a few. Their songs topped Country Radio charts helping them develop a strong and loyal following. Writing, singing and performing brought the duo to Nashville where they were in development with Decca Records just before Decca was dissolved. Sandra Lee has written many commercial jingles and in May of 2010 she landed her first national commercial campaign for Aaron’s Rents. She has also written songs for television and film; writing the theme song for the made for television movie “Vegas Heat” and other musical tracks. She signed a single-song deal with Sony Music Publishing in 2011 and just landed a major cut on the new Jimmie VanZant record set to release in June 2012. As a Music Business entrepreneur, Sandra Lee has produced her own television show called “Breakout” which she is currently pitching to networks. She has also produced music videos for many of Nashville’s emerging Country Music Artists and has moved into management and booking. Sandra Lee has also had a long and successful career in radio and television sales and sales management and is putting her business savvy into her many Country Music projects. She is living the dream and loving every minute of it! Learn more about Sandra Lee and by visiting startourrecords.com or by emailing sandra@countrystartour.com
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MAR A & TH E B I G ROC K S TAR S FU N 8 0 ’ s ROCK COVER B A N D Sure, Mara & The Big Rockstars will play some Journey and Bon Jovi – because they’re awesome! But they also play tunes like ‘Final Countdown,’ ‘Africa,’ ‘Kickstart My Heart,’ and “Eye Of The Tiger” to keep audiences on the dance floor and at the bar. What sets them apart from other 80s party bands is not silly costumes or schticky dialogue, but completely live instruments with five-part vocal harmonies, and a can’t-take-your-eyes-off-her frontwoman, most often compared to Janis Joplin and Nancy Wilson. Audiences of all ages follow their roaming party from venue to venue all over Los Angeles, bringing the rock hits to clubs, festivals and private/corporate parties. Also available as an acoustic solo, duo, or trio for more intimate engagements. Before the cover band, Mara was an award-winning solo singer/songwriter chasing a record deal in LA. A native New Yorker, she jump-started her career playing on the streets and in the pubs of Scotland. She found herself playing five packed nights a week for locals and International backpackers, promoting her original albums. Invitations for live radio appearances and performances as a featured artist at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival kept her on the move, and she returned to tour in the UK for the following three summers. Her performances gained national media coverage on Scottish television, radio and worldwide webcasts. In the states or overseas, 80s covers or originals, Mara continues her commitment to making a difference by donating time and performances to support Breast Cancer and Alzheimer’s Research charities.
For booking and information, contact 310-281-3146 or info@marasong.com c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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music Ma rina V Marina V is an award-winning recording artist with a “hauntingly beautiful” voice (L.A. Times), whose “melodic and passionate music” (The Washington Post) has been influenced by the Beatles, Tchaikovsky and Tori Amos. Born in Moscow, Marina came to America at 15 to pursue her American Dream. Having played over 600 shows worldwide from The Kodak Theatre in Hollywood and the American Embassy in Moscow to clubs from Sydney to Paris, Marina raised $30,000 from her loyal fans to record her new album, MY STAR, which was produced by Guy Erez (Gipsy Kings) and features guest musicians from KISS and Collective Soul. With songs in TV shows, films, ads and in the most popular iPhone game, Marina is “an emerging musician you should know about” (The Huffington Post). “hauntingly beautiful” ~ L.A. Times “melodic and passionate music” ~ The Washington Post “the voice of an angel” ~ The Prague Post “timeless quality and ethereal beauty” ~ Las Vegas City Life
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D AVI D & DE V INE Retro-Soul music is currently all the rage, and L.A.-based David And Devine are riding that wave of music being popularized by high-profile artists including Adele, Cee-Lo Green, Janelle Monae, and Bruno Mars, to name a few. In a world where the old record business is crumbling and hanging on by a thread, the soulful duo consisting of Candace Devine (vocals) and Dave Yaden (piano-vocals) are the new school - having enjoyed radio airplay for their song “Leave The Light On” while being signed to top Hollywood talent agency ICM and working with a well-known L.A. music manager - all without the benefit of a major label deal. Dubbed “The new Bonnie and Clyde of Soul” by one scribe, David and Devine’s body of work includes well-receiv�ed sci-fi/thriller-themed video “’Til The Sun Comes Up” featuring actress Mariana Klaveno of HBO’s hit series, True Blood. Another standout track from D&D is the uber-poppy “Get Up Everybody And Dance.” Blues-Pop is another genre synonymous with David And Devine, similar to what one might expect to hear if, say, Elton John and Aretha Franklin formed a band.
It’s easy to see where the great songwriting emanates from: Both Yaden and Devine compose music for TV and film scores, with “NCIS/LA;” MTV’s “Real World;” and AMC hit “Breaking Bad” among their recent scores. Additionally, each have written, recorded, and performed with many high-profile acts including One Republic, Christina Aguilera, Lady Antebellum and “The Voice” finalist, Tony Lucca.
CONTACT: dougdeutschpr@gmail.com c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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d ylan taylor DYLAN TAYLOR is a singer and song writer from Atlanta, GA. Dylan’s music is known for its pop, rock, and folk musical blend, combined with captivating lyrics and stories. Her influences cross a wide range of artists from James Taylor, John Prine, and The Beatles, to Michael Jackson, Patty Griffin, and David Bowie. Dylan Taylor’s self-titled debut release is comprised of 8 tracks of her self-penned songs taking the listener on a journey of an observer and participant of everyday life situations. Each song is unique in its storyline and showcases Dylan’s excellent song writing talents and performances. Dylan tours performing with her complete band and also solo vocal and acoustic. She is known for her powerful acoustic shows and her unique voice and distinctive guitar abilities. Described as “Swanky Cool”, Dylan has been compared to Shawn Colvin, Lucinda Williams, Bonnie Tyler, and Sheryl Crow. Fans agree her style is unmistakably all her own.
DYLANTAYLORMUSIC.COM FACEBOOK.COM/DYLANTAYLORARTIST Management and Booking Contact: Ronnie Brown Next Century Music, LLC Phone: (615) 977-9767 Email: rbrown@nexcen.com PA G E 52
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G ly scian Glyscian is a power metal trio fronted by Canadian lead singer & guitarist, Suzanne Slair, backed by bassist, Thomas Hall, (Texas) and drummer Rona Rougeheart, (L.A.). Glyscian has melded loud, heavy guitars with pretty melodies and mixed punk sensibilities with a sharp sense of songwriting. A loud and fast style of heavy metal, they have their roots in the hard-rocking rock band tendencies, choosing to amplify with the speed of punk rock. Combined with extremely dynamic vocal melodies, intense lyrics, they harness that energy and in the process, produce a raging sound. Their first studio album, to be released Summer 2012, will be produced by the fabulously talented, giant stud, David Allen (Black Label Society, Robin Trower, Reverend Horton Heat, Stryper, Fishbone). Photo by Sabrina{bean}photography
glyscian.com facebook.com/glyscian twitter.com/glyscian reverbnation.com/glyscian c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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music
Huw P r i c e
Huw Price is a guitarist and singer who is influenced by soul, swing, and samba. He plays both his own compositions and a wide range of soul, jazz and latin classics. Huw is available for bookings for bars, restaurants, hotels, night clubs, members’ clubs, weddings, private parties and corporate functions. Huw can play solo, in duos or trios with sax and/or percussion, or with his 4-piece band The Riveras. As a solo artist or with his duos, trios and bands, Huw has played at great venues like Dogstar, China White, Trafalgar Square Hilton, Lost Angel, Eight Members Club, Gaucho Picadilly, Le Garrick, Mass, Citizen Smith, The Conrad [aka Wyndham Grand], He has also played at Claridge’s, Momo’s, Hyatt Regency, Electric Ballroom, Sound, Home House, Hampton Court Palace, Park Lane Hilton, Infinity Club, Sound, Leeds Castle, Dingwalls. He has entertained celebrities such as Take That, Ken Livingstone, Boris Becker, and the Chelsea first team. He has played private art exhibitions for artists like Banksy and corporate events for blue-chip clients such as Audi and Microsoft. Huw’s recorded music has received club and radio airplay from top DJs worldwide, including Patrick Forge [Kiss FM], Chris Phillips [Choice FM], Michael Rutten [Soulsearching / Compost], Dom Servini [Wah Wah 45s / Straight No Chaser] and many more. The 12 inch of his songs ‘Beautiful’ and ‘Jusitify’, released under the Spengler moniker on their Bermuda Triangle Records imprint, was critically acclaimed and described as a ‘future classic’.
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p u r ple m el on London band Purple Melon, are influenced by quintessential Brit Rock including the Kinks and The Faces. They have been playing to growing crowds at venues like The Roxy Theatre and headlined the Sunset Strip Music Festival at the Viper Room. The band has been featured on AOL sessions, MTV, KTLA, Hit Music Central and were named as a hot new sound to watch on the Billboard charts. The band announced a full 140-date tour in the USA starting March 4th 2012
In their highly anticipated album Purple Melon deliver a masterful record of catchy and smart English pop rock. Guitar Player magazine praised their “killer interlocking guitars and amazing vocals”. The album was recorded analog live to 2-inch tape and produced by Paul Stacey (Black Crowes, Oasis)
purplemelon.tv fb.me/PurpleMelonMusic twitter.com/@Purple_melon c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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Joh n Huldt John Huldt is an award winning guitar player from Sweden who’s been calling Los Angeles home since 2006. He has quickly gained a reputation as a high level player and instructor and was awarded “Guitarist Of The Year” at the 2012 SouthBay Music Awards. He works as a session and studio musician, teaches the advanced rock curriculum at the LA Music Academy and plays with metal standouts AMPORA and his own instrumental band. John Huldt is endorsed by: Kemper Profiling Amps, Elmwood Amps, T Rex pedals, Mad Professor pedals, George El cables, Seymour Duncan pickups, Hipshot products and Oceanaut watches. You can find him online on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Google+
John Huldt 626-274-4020 Youtube.com/JohnHuldt facebook.com/JohnHuldtMusic PA G E 56
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Y o ung royals Is there hope for rock n roll? YES. The universal truth that rock will never die has been brought to the forefront by Los Angeles-based band YOUNG ROYALS. Solid like a Les Paul, memorably melodic, combined with the sonic bombast of all that is heavy, YOUNG ROYALS is a band that packs an albums worth of tunes worthy of your ears, IPod, car stereo, or any preferred listening device of the 21st century. Bone-crushing, soul-stiring, modern-classic rock. Don’t be afraid, Its just heavy. A good heavy...
follow us on twitter @theyoungroyals
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J o hn E ng hause r Singer/Songwriter, John Enghauser, has been on the original music scene since the mid 90’s. Beginning with his band Jamawokee, a high octane 4-piece funk rock project which debuted in Massachusetts, John began honing his songwriting and frontman skills. The band released its first recording self-titled “Jamawokee” in 1996. In the late 90’s, John fronted his own original group, Jeng, where he wrote all of the material and whose potent live show piqued the interest of record labels such as Columbia and Virgin Records. John released his second album “Larium Dream” which was a compilation of Jeng songs he’d written during his time with the band. It was around this time that John also served as Music Director and contributing songwriter on the indie films “Urban Relics” and “When it Rains”. The “Urban Relics” Soundtrack would mark John’s 3rd official release to date. In 2000, Enghauser ventured westward where he landed in California. After several musical stints in San Francisco and Los Angeles, John has settled in the bay area where he’s just completed his long anticipated fourth release “Lost In The Pages”. In addition to all vocals, John performs guitar, bass and keyboards on the CD. Currently, John’s new band is performing and promoting “Lost in the Pages” live while the CD is being played in 13 countries worldwide including England, Australia, Germany, France, New Zealand, Canada and The U.S.A. “Lost in the Pages” has already received critical acclaim by being nominated by LA Music Awards as “Best Album of 2009” in two categories. John’s new albuim “Reality” is set to be released Spring of 2013.
jenghauser1@gmail.com
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T o m i r ae Bro wn Tomirae Brown, the widow of music superstar James Brown, is hard at work in the studio with her new band, Tomirae Brown and Dogs on Broadway. The project centers around some of the last recordings of her late husband. Begun shortly prior to his death in 2006, and produced by the Godfather of Soul himself, the recordings include several duets with Mr. and Ms. Brown, while additionally featuring his unique stylings on piano and organ.
tomiraebrown@mac.com c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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R obe rt Casal Robert Casal is a film composer and conductor hailing from New York City. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2011 he has composed and produced music for twenty independent short and feature length films, a stage musical, and has had music licensed to over 100 episodes of television across a dozen countries. His style ranges from epic driving action to lush Hollywood romanticism, to world music and electronic hybrid scores, having most recently worked with famed cellist Gautier Capuçon. He loves bringing new and exciting sounds to each score he works on, while crafting engaging music for any genre.
917-716-7267 robertcasalcomposer@gmail.com robcasal.com PA G E 60
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BEN M O RRIS O N
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A powerhouse band of Funk, Latin, Rock & Jazz!
Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns, the most known UNKNOWN horn band in the world. Ask musicians anywhere in the world about this band and you’re likely to get a surprised look that says “How did YOU know about them!” The Crown Jewel of Las Vegas Nevada, this band has re-set the bar for “horn bands.” Although known and revered as one of (if not THE) most original and prolific of the horn bands in this genre, they are also admired and loved as an extremely talented and versatile vocal group. If you like Tower of Power, Earth, Wind and Fire all kicked up about two notches, then you simply have to see
Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns! Check website for show dates
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Booking • Management • Distribution • Promotion
Atlas Agency Artists “Your World... Our Shoulders”
AtlasAgencyArtists.com
Download CIA Magazine at Magcloud! Go to Magcloud.com search CIA Magazine. Download the print version and receive a FREE Digital version of the magazine. independent artists* of all genres! Get a Full Page Ad with your photo, bio and contact information. Email us at info@ciaartists.com magazine CIA Magazine is available online and print!
www.CiaArtists.com
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TRADE SHOW SPOKESPERSON FASHION MAKEUP & HAIR & MORE
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models
J Ak I N els o n Jaki’s credentials include film, music, theatre, dance and modeling
AmoritaHoldings@gmail.com 818-422-2101
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models
J aeh ne Moebius Originally from Buffalo, New York, Jaehne Moebius relocated to Los Angeles, California, putting aside her studies in Dietetics (Nutrition) for the world of Modeling and Fashion. Having spent several years working in these fields in Los Angeles as well as Japan and Greece, she has applied her knowledge, experience, and passion to Fashion Styling. She has worked with Los Angeles photographers Sarah Morrison, Joseph Avalon, Sanjay Belani, Joseph Braun, etc., and German photographer Uli Schepp on an array of exciting fashion editorials. She is greatly inspired by vintage fashion, particularly 1940’s to 1980’s, and specializes in mixing pieces from different eras. Her latest styling endeavor is pending publication in “Chicago” Magazine, and has also styled a futuristic video for an upcoming HBO pilot with director Mischa Pfister and art director Aaron Williamson. Having also worked extensively in video and television, Jaehne would love to continue expanding her fashion vision to the world of Film and Television, though it is likely that high-fashion editorial will remain her first love!
jaehne123@yahoo.com c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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EDIT O RI A L
7 Secrets to Profitable Business Strategies Grow and Safeguard Your Business Don’t Catch the Willie Woes
T
he Entertainment Industry can be a rewarding one, living out your dreams, expressing yourself and collecting a huge paycheck for something you love to do with a passion!
But then what do you do with your new financial status? Who do you Hire for Strategic Wealth Management? Where do you turn? Who do you trust? All too often we hear of Fraud and Embezzlement in the Entertainment Industry, from a family member, a friend, an Agent, a financial advisor or you try to take care of your own finances. Then you struggle to pay the bills and bankruptcy is next. Don’t fall victim and catch the “Willie Woes”! This Syndrome can halt your progress towards building and maintaining a solid foundation of wealth! We all would like to keep our hard earned profits to ourselves but how far will you go? Are you one of those that push the limits of what’s legal? The IRS CAN and WILL come after you, if they can go after celebrities, they will come after you. To name a few, Leona Helmsley, Heidi Fleiss, Martha Stewart, even former IRS Commissioner Joseph Nunan are not insusceptible to the IRS! We all remember too well Country American music singer-songwriter Willie Nelson who sang the IRS blues with his high-profile tax troubles. He was fined $32 million because he invested in a bogus tax shelter which was later settled for $16 million. Was this his accountant’s mistake? Did Willie get bad advice? Or PA G PAE G72 E 72
did he decide on this investment on his own; perhaps a combination or he may have failed to surround himself with trustworthy loyal advisors. Like most taxpayer’s he did not have enough money to pay in back taxes and had to raise money by selling off his estate as the IRS had seized most of his assets. Later Willie Nelson sued his accounting firm Price Waterhouse contending they put him into tax shelters that were later disallowed. The lawsuit was settled for an undisclosed amount and debts paid. Is it worth risking your life dreams, efforts and hard work to try and be a master at everything or choosing the wrong advisors? Just because a firm is well known does not mean they are the best (i.e. case of Willie Nelson). Your success was achieved from your blood, sweat and tears do not fall victim to the “Willie Woes” and be the next to file bankruptcy and lose everything as we all know it will take a while to rebuild; after all it’s not fun singing the IRS Blues. How do you protect yourself, your family and your business? Who do you turn too? Now you can allay those fears with a trusted Fabulous Power Team who are in business to genuinely keep you in business; Honesty and Integrity is their only way! Why don’t you do what you do best – Entertain! And let those who specialize in the field take your burden away. You pursue your passion while your Power Team pursues theirs, a win-win for all.
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EDIT O RI A L
Why is a Power Team so important you ask? You need an amazing Power Team to create your comprehensive Business Plan and who will carry out and execute your Road Map to Success. The Strategic Business Management Team is designed to help ensure your success in educating you on How to Lead your company to Triumph. A Power Team leads your company to Triumph by Strategic Structured Plans, Asset Protection from Unnecessary Liabilities, The Use of Privacy Protection while Maximizing Tax Strategies and Minimizing Tax Liabilities. A mouthful; yes it is, so do you still want to take matters in your own hands? You can make a profit doing what you love, but that profit only comes with hard work and perseverance – as well as a great deal of tax, business and financial planning and knowledge. Let’s take a look and see if you are on track in Protecting Your Wealth.
7 Secrets to Profitable Business Strategies Secret 1: Passion – First and foremost do you have passion in what you do? In other words, does your business align with what you do best? A while ago I was asked by a colleague of mine, a Certified Life Success Coach, “Does Your Business Align with What You Do Best?” And of course, my response was not a short one. When your passions align with what you do best you will achieve extraordinary results, so the answer to his question is absolutely! For me my business does align with what I do best! My passion lies in helping small businesses and individuals achieve their bottom-line, after all their success is my success!!! Do you see the trend here; yes it is “passion”. When one is passionate about something, great things follow! It is George Wilhelm who said it best “Nothing great in this world has been accomplished without passion”.
Some passionate beliefs to live by: Anything is possible if you put your mind to it Seek opportunity where no one else does (that is in every bad there is a good most do not see therefore seek) If your idea or capital is turned down several times, keep knocking on doors one will open Transform theoretical ideas into practical, tactical and simple to implement process so people can take action You are only limited by your fears as the possibilities and opportunities are endless Knowledge is power, therefore continuous learning and educating is critical Turn your dreams into a reality Every day is a new journey What are you waiting for Make it Happen! Now ask yourself again, “Does your business align with what you do best?” If it does not take a closer look, are you really doing what it is that you want to be doing? So you decide on pursuing your passion in the Entertainment Industry – Fabulous! Secret 2: Create and Maintain Your Business Plan. Your Roadmap to Success! A Business Plan defines your business, identifies your goals and serves as your company’s resume. In essence your company’s Vision from the beginning of its formation throughout the life of the business; an overall great management tool. A software program cannot create a good business plan, it takes hard work and experience in creating a solid business plan to fit your company’s profile; hence tailored specifically to you. “Plan Properly or Plan to Fail”, in other words if you fail to plan, plan on failing. As you may already know Plans Do Not Fail, People Fail to Plan! Therefore, it is always best to begin a New Year with a Plan, your
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EDIT O RI A L
“Road Map to Success” – “Planning Your Success through Your Life’s Journey”….. How do we do that? To become a success we must first have a plan because as you know when you have a plan and write it down you take action, when you take action it becomes a reality, when it becomes a reality you have become a success! Set Goals … Take Action… Follow Through…. and Just Make it Happen…… A business plan is an important management tool that helps you focus on where you are and where you want to be in the future; also focus on areas of improvement as well as growth. As you effectively manage your business, the knowledge and insight you will gain will assist in modification of your plan in preparation for changes in the economic conditions and other unforeseen situations, hence being proactive in your continued success and not falling victim to circumstance. A comprehensive business plan will have anywhere from forty to sixty pages which typically includes your executive summary, company overview, marketing plan, operational plan, management plan, finance and growth strategies, the market, management and staff, etc. It is your strategic planning tool guiding you through various growth stages as your business progresses. Pricing varies on type of business, size of business, stage of business and if you already have a business plan that may need updating. Secret 3: Entity Structure and Tax Implications. When beginning a business, you must decide what form of business entity to establish as each have different legal and tax ramifications. Protecting your wealth is very important and is done through strategic entity structuring. The most common forms of business are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and S corporation. A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a relatively new business structure allowed by state statute. Let’s take an in-depth review of the top three. PA G PAE G74 E 74
1) A C-Corporation is a separate legal entity and has a life of its own. It can own assets, incur liabilities, and provide goods and services to the general public. Every C-Corporation starts out as a C-Corporation and remains as such unless it makes an S- Election. C-Corporations are often the first step in reducing taxes and protecting assets and can provide additional tax deductible expenses approximately 300 deductible expenses of which you can take advantage. You will need a C Corporation structure If you want to take your company public. The C-Corporation additionally offers the benefit of having a fiscal year end either 3/31, 6/30, 9/30, 12/31. Businesses likely to utilize a C Corporation are businesses with ownership in multiple other entities, businesses with significant exposure to liability and businesses intended to exist externally. However, beware of double taxation! 2) S-Corporation: As previously stated, an S-Corporation starts out as a C-Corporation and is then converted by a simple filing of form 2553. By making this election, you are choosing to have the corporation’s income treated like the income of a partnership or sole proprietorship. The income is passed through to the shareholders of the corporation. S-Corporations have approximately 75 allowable expense deductions and can be used as part of a multi-corporation strategy and for newer businesses and they can flow loss through to the individual which reduces their personal income, while losses to C-Corporations do not pass through to the individual. Businesses likely to utilize S Corporations are ones with significant exposure to liability. Beware fringe benefits for owner-employees are limited! 3) A Limited Partnership has two aspects to its structure: one or more General Partners and one or more Limited Partners. Generally speaking, limited partners share in the profits of the partnership but are shielded from its liabilities. They have no say in the management of the partnership’s activities. In most Limited Partnerships, the Limited Partners are passive investors.
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Screenwriters Staging producers audio & video and more
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Film & Prod
C h ar les Dewandele r Charles Dewandeler is an award winning director and editor. His work has been featured on the Independent Film Channel, The CW Network, Starz Network, Fox Reality, TV One and various websites. His feature length comedy film ‘Parody Movie’ (recently released on DVD) is loosely inspired by Dewandeler’s own Directing experiences. It’s about a film Director spoofing his favorite movies, including spoofs of Superman, Batman, Star Wars and more... Charles Dewandeler wrote the script after moving to Los Angeles. Dewandeler shot the film in his hometown of Detroit, MI and it stars a host of newly discovered Michigan talent. Now that ‘Parody Movie’ is completed and on DVD, Dewandeler has moved on to other projects. He currently has three (3) screenplays he’s shopping around Hollywood, while working as a TV Editor, dabbling in standup comedy and Directing comedy videos for SpoofTroupe.com. “I’ve got a lot on my plate right now,” says Dewandeler, “and I like it that way.”
cdewandeler@yahoo.com (310) 889-4920 parody-movie.com • immasavehollywood.com PA G E 76
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Film & Prod
J A N E C LE MENTS FILMMAKER • VOICE-OVER Jane is a filmmaker for the FireBurnDoctor.com - free remote intervention for burns! Since 2009, her work has been helping (every day) more than 400 women, men and children recover instantly from burns sustained in the kitchen, on the job, fighting fires, and riding motorcycles. These recovered burn victims are from 43 states and 24 countries around the world, and include actors, musicians, stunt men, special effects agents, mothers and children. When you read her website, www.fireburndoctor. com, you will see that the only thing these people did was call, within 30 minutes of the burn, to the FireBurnDoctor at 1-818-332-6445. (This is definitely the number you want to keep in your own cell phone and tell others to do the same.) Jane would love you to send her your own footage of Instant Burn Recoveries for her next documentary. Whether you are a professional filmmaker, make films for a hobby or just have a camera cell phone ready when someone is burned, all you do is make the call to FireBurnDoctor and then roll the cameras! Jane also happens to be British with an “awesome [Cornish] accent” (quote from John Kaye!) and is available to do voice-over work at a moment’s notice!
Email: jinja102@aol.com • Phone: 818-744-7138 c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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Film & Prod
B RA N DO N W OR K MAN FILMMAKER Brandon works as a freelance filmmaker. His films have been screened in festivals nationally and will soon be broadcast on the Documentary Channel. The film he most recently edited, Quiet, was accepted to the Newport Beach film festival and is currently in pre-production for the feature. Based on true events, Quiet is a heart-wrenching story about a woman who struggles for equality in society, while facing her own moral dilemma in regard to her comatose wife. www.quietthemovie.com Brandon also did production-sound and post-sound for Videosyncracy, a documentary about the effects of new media on the endangered neighborhood “mom and pop” video store. Videosyncracy screened at the Atlanta Film Festival and was recently purchased by the Documentary Channel. Brandon is a recent graduate of the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, a J. Michael Brinkman Scholar, and a member of the Hollywood Post Alliance.
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THE CONSCIOUS VIEW
editorial
Living in a Conscious World
“Our show is designed to experientially demonstrate what is possible when accessing unlimited personal power!”
THE CONSCIOUS VIEW TV SHOW To provide the technology, tools, rules for self-expression and to raise personal consciousness in the world. We feature prominent coaches, psychologists, therapists, authors and entrepreneurs from around the world in 7 different disciplines essential for life balance. HiddenHillsADs2010:Layout 1 1/12/10 2:08 PM Page 1
www.TheConsciousView.tv
Our channels include: Health, Finances, Relationships, Personal Growth, Environment, Career and Spirituality
Starring: Dean Allen PhD-Consciousness Consultant, Coach Steve Toth-Host/Moderator, Kristy Knight-Music Director and 9 awake and conscious professionals. “Consciousness - The Only Elegant Solution”
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SPEAKERS INSTRUCTORS DESIGNERS FINE ARTISTS & MORE
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other passion
S te ve Caposi o
A second generation multi-media chef There is probably no one who best exemplifies the passion for life, and love of food that the Italians are known for than Steve Caposio. A second generation multi-media chef; Steve’s enthusiasm for cooking and entertaining came from his TV chef mom, Etta Lasco. From the age of 6, you could find Steve in his mom’s Long Island kitchen, or on set, learning centuries old techniques in the art of ‘peasant Italian cooking’. Every detail, taste, color, even the sounds that certain foods have; Steve soaked it all up and honed his culinary skills and developed a palette that has served him well in his quest to bring his passion to the masses. It is that passion, knowledge, and love of great food that has attracted some of the top San Francisco restaurateurs, hotel owners, United Gourmet Sales, and the San Jose National Association of Catering Experts to his table to learn his techniques. Techniques that he now brings to the web with his show: “Crazy, Delicious!” The show is built around his philosophy that “life is a journey to be enjoyed,” and that great cooking is not something that you need years of training of hundreds of dollars to produce. “It’s something that everyone can do.”When not consulting for experts, Steve shares his talents and has raised (to date) over $100,000 for the American Cancer Society. He owns a successful contracting business and lives happily with his wife and daughter in the city of Morgan Hill.
CONTACT: L. Mattock Scariot 152 West Productions office: 408-846-1707 PA G E 84
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other passion
N I C K KASIK M ETAL ARTIST
Following a long and successful career in the construction management industry, and several years building custom motorcycles and hot rods, Nick was determined to realize a lifelong desire to develop his artistic abilities, and follow his passion for creativity, and artistic design. Back in 2008, as an outlet to escape from the stresses of corporate life, Nick began experimenting with modern metal designs, employing age old methods of cold forming, blacksmithing, and modern conventional metalworking. He began creating 3-D sculptures with elegant metal arches and flowing designs. Finding an additional outlet for creativity in flat metal designs creating depth and design with nothing more than a grinder, Nick creates metal flat work the is unique, and creative. Prior to 2013, Nick’s art was only produced for donation to charity art auction events, and the only way to acquire an original piece was through charity auction venues, or personal sales of existing pieces. Beginning in 2013, Nick’s art is available for the first time, to the general public. Expanding designs, employing more design elements, more color, and different materials, Nick plans to create functional art, blending the beauty of design with the functionality of every day usage.
NickKasik.com • nkasik@hotmail.com • 727-207-2203 c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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other passion
J am y I an S wiss According to the post-modern magic duo, Penn & Teller, Jamy Ian Swiss is “James Bond with a deck of cards for a pistol!” Swiss has appeared internationally for presenters ranging from Fortune 500 companies to the Smithsonian Institution. His U.S. television appearances include CBS “48 Hours,” PBS “Nova,” “The Today Show,” and repeat appearances on “The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson.” Internationally renowned for his skills as a close-up magician, Swiss has also performed his stage show of mind-reading and mentalism, “Heavy Mental,” for audiences of thousands across the United States. As a speaker, Swiss has addressed subjects including creativity, risk management, design, user experience and other aspects of corporate and creative concern to firms as diverse as Publicis, Schlumberger, Adobe, Intuit, Electronic Arts, and Shufflemaster; and also serves as on-stage host for a diverse range of business conferences. Swiss is the author of several books including “The Art of Magic” (the companion to the PBS documentary); two collections of essays: “Devious Standards” and “Shattering Illusions”; and he collaborated with Edward Tufte on a chapter in the book “Visual Explanations.” He has produced and written for television including Penn & Teller’s “Sin City Spectacular” series; and he is a co-producer of New York’s longest-running Off-Broadway magic show, “Monday Night Magic,” now n its 15th consecutive year. In a lengthy profile, “New Yorker” magazine declared, “Swiss is widely thought to have one of the most masterly sleight-of-hand techniques in the world today!”
honestliar.com jamy@honestliar.com • 917.951.7484 NOTE: Primary image is “JIS w-hat” and PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Bulbenko Other photos: J:IS-2 is by Dianne Star swiss eg is by Chris Holmes
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other passion
Claudia C o hen Like Beauty, truth lies in the eye of the beholder - and in the mind of the artist. The bronze and ceramic creations of sculptor Claudia Cohen are not realistic in any strict sense of the term, but they are precise renditions of her imagination; engaging articulations of the ruminations of her subconscious. With her dazzling style of meticulous detail and feeling for form, the work brings to life a magical cast of characters - human, animal, and are a fantastical progeny from a different and inviting universe. In the book Humor in art, the work was described as Comic Surrealism, which aptly sums up her feel for humor and pathos. Magic Realism is another term often used to characterize her narrative creations. There are few artists today who inhabit such an intriguing unified private world and have such an immediate gift in of inviting everyone else into it. Selected Awards & Exhibitions 2009 The Fine Art of Carnival, Inter Art Gallery, Chelsea, New York, New York 2008 Invited artist, The Grand Ceramic Theater, MAIAAO Turin - ITALY 2008 30 Ceramic Artists, Natsoulas Gallery, Davis, CA 2007 Artful Jesters, Pence Gallery, Davis, CA 2006 The Magic of Realism and the Voyage of Dreams, two person exhibition with Miran Ahn, Berkeley CA 2005 George Sugarman Foundation,. National Award Art Grant 2003 2nd time Grant Recipient from the Marin Arts Council, San Rafael, CA She is available for commissions.
claudiacohen.com 480 Gate Five Road, Studio 261C, Sausalito, CA 94965 415 302 8577
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other passion
T C Topc at Mark Paralitici uses the name TC Topcat when he performs his close-up magic. He first became interested in magic at the age of 15 while watching another teenager with a deck of cards. Over the years he has dabbled in all the various forms of the magic arts while being a member of the different magic fraternities including SAM (Society of American Magicians), FCM (Fellowship of Christian Magicians) and the World Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA. He is well known in Ventura County for his light-hearted humor and amazing skills with a variety of items such as coins, cards, handkerchiefs and paper money. With his mesmerizing eyes and dexterous fingers, it’s easy to believe in the impossible while watching him entertain audiences both young and old. While specializing in close-up magic for corporate events, conventions, banquets, wedding receptions, anniversaries, family reunions, bar/bat mitzvahs and any special occasion, he also performs a stand-up magic show for children’s parties. He has performed for Kinko’s Corporate, Monsanto Company, Tutti’s Off Main, Capistrano’s Restaurant, Romio’s Pizza & Pasta, Prime Steakhouse, Nordman, Cormany, Hair & Compton LLP Attorneys, Alcoholics Anonymous Central Office Ventura County, American Red Cross and Hollywood Fitness, etc.
Want to be the host of a most successful party? Add the Close-up Magic of TC Topcat. Guaranteed to amaze your guests!
Mark can be reached at (805) 766-1597 or TCTopcat.com PA G E 88
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Film Papara Aw a S c re e z z i , & A f r d s C e r n i n g, ter P emo ar ty ny
!
MOBILIZE
ESTIVAL
ORTS FILM F e GREEN SH
Th sed ontest focu c m il f l a u n is an an eing green. b d n a t e n la rp on saving ou 4th ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL is test theme n o c • Filmmakers write, produce, direct, edit and/or e h t r a he This ye score their own original short films EARTH” - t E H T R O F “MOBILIZE ay festival D h t r a • Winning submissions are presented in front of E ’s r yea a live audience at a special screening at the same as this ompelling c r u o y t n a Lobero Theatre on April 6th w theme. We nd solutions a ic t a m g a • Green Carpet Paparazzi with Photo ops and fanfare r p and mentaries m o c g in in a • Awards presented in 7 categories entert e, dependenc in y g r e n e on • Meet the filmmakers at the After Party y and a ustainabilit s e. • Audience Choice Award and winners get their films aired green futur on television and featured on various spots on the web
Sponsored by:
Lo b Fr i d e r o T h ay, eat 6 : 3 0 A p r i re pm l 6 For more info, visit GreenShortsFilmFest.org or call 963-SAVE c i A m aga z i n e S . C O M • C I A A RTISTS . C O M
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CIA Records proudly presents
Santa Fe’s Self Titled Debut Release CD
Now Available!
at: www.cdbaby.com/cd/santafedebutreissue Before Santa fe & Fhe Fat City Horns, Las Vegas’ own Santa Fe band played the late night crowds into the early morning hours. Here are the original songs that first rocked the Jet Set of the Entertainment Capital of the World!
www.SantaFeandTheFatCityHorns.com
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PROMOTING PEOPLE’S PASSION
magazine
TM
CiaArtists.com
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The General Partner has the benefits and responsibilities of actively managing the Limited Partnership’s activities. In exchange for this, the General Partner also has unlimited financial and legal responsibility for the losses or liabilities of the Limited Partnership. Businesses likely to utilize this structure are ones with two established businesses who wish to work as one or partners wishing to consolidate multiple entities into one entity. A great way to protect the General Partner against this unlimited liability is by making the General Partner a Corporation; note this strategy! Limited Partnerships are often used to hold real estate and other investments, where the parties involved don’t wish to be on equal footing. In other words, they work well when investors want to remain passive and desire to have someone else (i.e. the General Partner) manage the partnership’s activities. Businesses likely to utilize this structure are businesses with partners not actively involved in business, businesses with equity capital needs and businesses with exposure to liability. Simply put, Family Limited Partnerships are limited partnerships where the large majority of participants are family members. They follow the same basic rules and enjoy the benefits of a regular Limited Partnership. They are powerful for asset protection purposes and they are a great estate planning tool; note this strategy! Limited Liability Companies are a newer type of entity, but they have now been around long enough to be time tested. It is a separate entity for asset protection purposes. If sued, only the assets of the LLC are at risk. The participants in an LLC are called Members, and unlike a Limited Partnership which is designed for the participants to be treated differently, an LLC’s members are all on equal footing. This gives all members an opportunity to actively participate in the LLC’s activities. It is a great vehicle in which to hold real estate and other investments. Businesses likely to utilize this structure are ones expecting changes in ownership over time. PA G PAE G92 E 92
Trusts are powerful in two ways. First, they take the property outside of the reach of creditors. Secondly, they take the property outside the reach of beneficiaries with insatiable financial appetites. So, if you want to give a loved one a gift and especially the benefit of the income it generates, but you are unsure of their ability to properly manage it, a Trust may be the solution, note this strategy! Structuring your business or businesses strategically is an integral part of minimizing your liabilities and maximizing your bottom line. A knowledgeable, creative and innovative power team can help you with entity formation and the importance of entity and asset protection complimented with Tax, Financial & Business Strategies. Secret 4: Maximizing Tax Strategies. The United States has Two Tax Systems: A) Tax Structure for Employees - Employees get taxed on what they earn where money is taken out of their pay before they receive their paycheck. B) Tax Structure for Businesses - The corporate structure allows you to earn money, incur appropriate business deductions thereby taxed on what’s left. The vision, intent, and strategies you clarified for your business will help a tax strategist determine which entity is best for you and the entity created will also determine which tax benefits and strategies can be utilized. Most new business owners and investors are paying expenses as personal deductions and not taking advantage of their full business deductions. In short, deductions decrease amount of money used in calculating taxes due from taxpayer’s total income; a reduction of taxpayer’s total income. For example, your gross revenue is $200,000 and you had $150,000 in tax deductions (write-offs) leaving $50,000 net profit you of which you will be taxed. A Tax Deduction is a break granted by the Federal Government which reduces taxes by a
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percentage that is dependent upon the taxpayer’s income bracket. [Revenue – Tax Deductions = Net Profit/Loss].
I have been asked about Capitalization of Motion Picture, Master Recording, and Video; so let’s take a closer look at how the IRS views this industry.
The following is a list of typical business deductions that can help you take advantage of minimizing your tax burden:
Should you decide to produce or create a product (video, film, recording, etc.) a great portion of the expenses will be incurred prior to the product being ready to generate revenue. When this happens, you • Rent [commercial office or home office deduction (beware of are usually required to capitalize those expenses home office)] and recover (deduct) them over the period of time • Property Taxes the product is producing income. Several different • Insurance provisions apply depending on whether you are • Utilities already in the business and the specific business you • Phone are in. • Travel • Entertainment Pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 195, • Meals expenses for investigating, creating, or acquiring a • Uniforms new business are non-deductible capital expenses. • Automobile This applies to all expenses before the day the active • Gas or Mileage trade or business begins. However, this applies • Insurance to someone starting out in the industry - before • Office supplies offering a completed product for sale, production, or • Computer Equipment distribution. • Hiring family members to work in the business • Education Please also note Internal Revenue Code Section • Licensing 263A states these rules apply to people who are • Trade Magazines already in the trade or business. This code section • Legal and Professional Fees requires the capitalization of expenses to produce a • Accounting/Bookkeeping Fees creative work. The total costs of creating the assets • Staff (1099 and W-2) are required to be capitalized. This includes cost of • Gifts researching, preparing, producing, recording, etc. It • And more….. also includes an allocation of indirect costs such as utilities, tools, clerical, rental of equipment, etc. If you are in the entertainment industry sometimes you can incur expenses to maintain your image/ appearance in the form of clothing, make-up and physical fitness. Other expenses in this area include bodyguards and limousines. These are generally found to be personal expenses as the inherently personal nature of the expenses and other benefits far outweigh any potential business benefit. No deduction is allowed for wardrobe, general makeup, or hairstyles for auditions, job interviews, or “to maintain an image”!
Prior to the enactment of Section 263A, it was unclear what indirect costs were required to be capitalized for tax purposes with regard to self-constructed assets. However, to be consistent with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) requirements of SOP 00-2, most companies do capitalize general and administrative overhead, as well as interest. The uniform capitalization rules of Section 263A of the Internal Revenue Code require that certain costs relating to self-constructed assets be capitalized
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and apply to real and tangible personal property; it also specifically states these assets are considered tangible personal property. Now how do you handle Abandonment of a Project you ask? As with any other business venture, if a project is abandoned, you can claim a deduction for the unrecovered basis. Abandonment requires you show intent to abandon and makes an affirmative act of abandonment in such a manner the asset is not retrievable. For example, putting a script on the shelf for a while, with the possibility of selling it at a later date, is not abandonment or not attempting to promote a master recording since it may still be released in the future. I know there are many provisions too many to learn, know and understand that is why experts in the field is one of your smartest decisions; the greatest investment you will ever make! Having a Power Team to ensure you are maximizing your deductions and increasing your bottom line is the best strategy for your peace of mind. Secret 5: Asset Protection. The goal of proper asset protection is to minimize your risk and to grow and sustain your asset base. If you are running a business and your intent is to have the business become an asset, and/or you are continuing to grow your asset, the proper entity ensures a couple things: A) Protection of your Assets (i.e. your copyrights, home, intellectual property, trademarks) B) Protection of your Entity (i.e. your business) You need a Strategically Innovative Power Team to create, execute and carry out your Road Map to Success. Experienced professionals with years of experience on your side helping you protect your Wealth! Secret 6: Retire Tax-Free. Do you have a Financial Strategist? Save your money, invest in your future, and retire virtually tax-free! How? With a well-rounded financial strategist - do you have one you can trust, one with integrity, one who really wants to help increase and protect your wealth? PA G PAE G94 E 94
There is a wealth of tools available to invest in, so many that making strategic financial choices can be frightening and confusing without having an expert on your team to implement properly. What if you fall short of your retirement goals and end up being heavily taxed or you lose it all in an aggressive investment? Part of your financial strategy is having insurance for you and your business, since you’ll need to be able to cover yourself in case of accident or unexpected financial output. Now we all think we are invincible and that nothing will happen to us because we are healthy, strong and financially set. Well think again and remember what happens when coming down with the “Willie Woes.” Remember Lou Costello, he died penniless and in debt to the IRS. His partner Bud Abbott was the most unfortunate of famous stars that hit it big and lost it all. In an interview he stated he was in the 95% tax bracket. At age 64 he had a seven year bout with the IRS in a tax audit disallowing many of his deductions. One of Bud’s disallowed deductions was his chauffer despite his inability to drive as he never learned. Not much has changed since the fifties. How about MC Hammer who lost everything to the IRS! He put himself in debt with his outrageous $13 million dollar spending spree. He owed the IRS and State of California three quarters of a million dollars on three different tax bills. I even thought my mother was invincible she was always strong and handled and ran our home successfully and was always there taking care of us, even today. But one day in her mid-70’s she was diagnosed with a terminal illness. This is when you wish you had proper financial strategies in place early on in life and not when life happens, not when it is too late! Effective financial strategies are an integral part of strategic planning; do not discount the value. I am concerned at the way people continually get sucked into making bad financial decisions by having the wrong financial advisors; you know the ones who just want to make a quick buck and truly do not have
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a passion for their industry or you! The financial world can be a dangerous one, there are many people and/ or organizations who want to take advantage of you, beware! There are many horror stories of people who saved all their money and lost it all in the stock market, or who invested in their employer’s 401(k) for years only to see it evaporate during an economic recession leaving them little to no money for retirement. What may have worked yesterday does not work today. Let’s take a look at “The Money Investment Order”: 1. Free Money 2. Tax-Free Money 3. Tax-Deferred Money 4. Taxable Money Which category would you like to fall under? I am sure at retirement you would like to draw from free money and tax-free money. Therefore, you should choose to invest your money in the smartest way possible, using a financial strategist who would recommend products available that do not take from your hard-earned savings; especially when you need it the most. Keep in mind most investors were not made over night, learning the ins and outs of the financial world takes time and patience as well as trial and error. So why put yourself through it as your financial strategist already knows what works and what does not also taking into account current economic situations. Your key retirement strategy is your very own financial architectural strategist to help you build your retirement blueprint. Remember, there are Financial Entertainers and there are Financial Professionals, who do you want working for you? Your Financial Architect will devise a strategic indepth financial plan from retirement to education to your unique needs for your well-being, comfort and enjoyment in your future using a unique blueprint to build your investment strategy. Or simply professional financial reviews, geared specifically for your individual
needs ensuring strategies are effectively utilized. Strategic Safety, Growth and Income - your Financial Architect is blueprinting while building your future and preparing you for retirement. Do not follow the masses, follow the path with least resistance and find out what is best for you! After all, your Financial Blueprint is like a fingerprint, everyone’s is different! Secret 7: Power Team - Now you have set forth the foundation for your success, who will help create, and implement your business to success? The answer is your very own Power Team! I hope you have a Fabulous Power Team in place for Strategic Tax, Financial and Business Planning. Do not attempt to prepare your business returns on your own! Would you perform your own surgery? No you would not. You would hire an experienced surgeon. Well same goes for tax, financial and business strategies! Your Power Team helps you with strategic planning. Selecting the appropriate “Power Team” is just as important as it is advantageous to your Personal and Business Financial and Tax Strategies. To capitalize on the fundamentals of Individual and proper Business Structuring there is a very important technique in maximizing protection of your assets and investments while minimizing your tax liabilities! Take Ownership of your Life and your Business, the choice is yours – so make the right one on your road to success… We would like to introduce you to Carte Blanche Consulting & Training, Inc. who are on a passionate crusade to keep you in business. What makes them successful and unique is you tell your financial story once and a Fabulous Power Team consisting of a Tax Preparer, A CPA, A Business Consultant and a Financial Strategist, who are harmonious in their business thought-process, work with you while taking a unique and TACTICAL Approach to your Tax and Financial Strategies; protecting you and your business! There Experienced Professionals are teamed in their continued on pg 96
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Client Services Division and centered on specific industry’s to provide the highest caliber of client services with their Commitment to Excellence being the Number One Priority. Clients go to them to escape an endless maze of mediocre service; mediocrity is NOT the standard that is set for Excellence. Understanding that mediocrity is NOT an alternative, they approach their clients with a Positive Commitment. Their reputation is founded on the principles of honor and integrity. We are pleased to have one of the industry’s’ most impressive and experienced Leadership Teams at the Helm. Their expertise in all aspects of innovative marketing and strategic business operations play a key role in keeping them firmly anchored to principles such as quality, integrity and hard work. Their Commitment to Excellence is the common thread that keeps them on course. We look forward to building a relationship with you now, for your future… The choice is yours, chose wisely! To learn more about us please visit www.taxtimetips.me. To reach us please email ClientServices@CarteBlancheConsulting.com. Cheers to your success!
Carte Blanche Consulting & Training, Inc. – Taking you to the Next Level Ramona A. Benjamin Senior Consulting Advisor 810.397.4089
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Meet Ramona A. Benjamin, m.s. Ramona holds a Master of Science Degree in Information, Management and Communications. She is an established Tax and Accounting Expert having more than twenty-five years of experience working with Individual and Business Tax Regulations including IRS mandates that can affect all areas of your business. Ramona is known for her knowledge and ability to find ways to enhance the profitability for you or your company; helping you retain more of your hard earned revenue. Her strength lies in her knowledge and lifetime experience in all aspects of business operations, including but not limited to, organization, accounting, management, strategic and operational planning, sales and leadership, as well as system implementation and procedures that increase efficiency and effectiveness. She also has negotiated short sales resulting in her own portfolio of residential real estate investments coupled with knowledge in commercial real estate. Ms. Benjamin is recognized for her enthusiasm and persistence, following through and fostering collaborative relationships to resolve concerns and ensuring success. She is proficient in assessing, addressing, and articulating client needs and managing expectations ensuring outstanding client service. •
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In memory of...
Robert “Bob” Linden 1955 - 2013
Associate Director, Music Group CBS Television Studio www.zenboogie.net
His Passion Lives On!
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