[MuzikMan] How important is it to get a good review for an artist? Conversely, how difficult is it, and if so, why?
Rhonda Kelley (Rainmaker Publicity) It is very important, but a good review alone won't break an unsigned artist. Just as a radio campaign alone won't. It's the combination of all marketing and promotion mixed together; radio, press, webzines, internet radio, advertising, in-stores, performing, touring, CD compilations (Lollipop,Magnet, CMJ), street teams, postering etc. To create an industry buzz you need reviews in national magazines like Billboard, Performing Songwriter, Spin, Alternative Press, Relix, CMJ, Rockpile, Music Connection Magazine; it makes a huge difference. But, always remember, word of mouth is still the best advertising a band can get.
These words from Bob Marley describe the debut record by Cosmo Fraser. In this era of the rediscovered and retro - in fashion, sportswear, and all styles of music - it's inevitable and overdue to hear a new artist deal with old school reggae.
Who says that a great band has to fit into a set formula to be a success? Not Brett Kimberlin, the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter for the critically acclaimed, three-piece band Epoxy. "Formulas have been the poison of the music industry - they stifle individuality and creativity because both bands and record labels think that they have to copy the successful formula of the latest craze, then it gets old real fast and bores everyone," says Kimberlin.
Interview With The Pirate of Parody - How A Parody is Born
We are in Charleston, West Virginia, after a performance by "The Pirate of Parody." This songwriter's name is a mystery to preserve the identity as a result of a parody song he wrote about the governor of West Virginia.
[Doak Turner] Tell us the story about the "Bob Wise Song."
DJs Are Human Beings Too! How to Approach Indie/Underground DJs
First thing I do in the morning is check the e-mail. Normally it's 100+ mails ... sure lotsa spam 'n other trash ... but, if I would work on the trash and the serious letters in full detail, it would take me at least three to four hours.
Next I go to the mail box 'n check for new releases. I now receive an average of five CDs daily. If I would work on these in full detail (really listen, write down songs for airplay, send a mail that the CD arrived, etc.), that would take me approximately another four to five hours.
Publicity in the Music Industry - Are They The People Behind The Success of Arti 
Rhonda Kelley (Rainmaker Publicity) It is very important, but a good review alone won't break an unsigned artist. Just as a radio campaign alone won't. It's the combination of all marketing and promotion mixed together; radio, press, webzines, internet radio, advertising, in-stores, performing, touring, CD compilations (Lollipop,Magnet, CMJ), street teams, postering etc. To create an industry buzz you need reviews in national magazines like Billboard, Performing Songwriter, Spin, Alternative Press, Relix, CMJ, Rockpile, Music Connection Magazine; it makes a huge difference. But, always remember, word of mouth is still the best advertising a band can get.
We are in Charleston, West Virginia, after a performance by "The Pirate of Parody." This songwriter's name is a mystery to preserve the identity as a result of a parody song he wrote about the governor of West Virginia.