Music Conferences=Love?

I just got back in town a couple of days ago from the Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis, TN, and it was a really refreshing experience.  I was in a bit of a funk after the CD Release Party I put on for Andrew Duhon in January…months of hard work culminating into one final day of payoff will inevitably lead to a crash.  This particular conference came at the perfect time.  It can become very easy to start feeling isolated in this industry, especially in New Orleans.  New Orleans is the smallest big city you’ll ever find.  Most of us industry folk down here know each other already, and those that don’t are bound to meet through others, so there’s not too much opportunity or necessity for big industry gatherings.  We can all find each other at the corner bar, for the most part.

This being said, I love immerssing myself in these big industry get-togethers from time to time.  It’s like one big brainstorming session with people who actually understand what it is you do.  I love getting fresh, new ideas about how to market an artist or a company and just generally enjoy the opportunity for intellectual conversation.  I think it can become far to easy to get locked into a particular niche or groove in this industry, and it’s very important to get out and meet new people.  You never know where your next big lead might come from.  Always be professional, but allow yourself to be personable, as well.

All in all, this conference reminded me that it’s essential to stay in touch with your fans and the people who support you.  I haven’t necessarily been doing the best job of that lately, as I’ve been holed up in my apartment writing press releases and desigining press kits.  Now as much fun as that is, I’m gonna hop back on this blogtrain and get going.  Apparently some of you out there actually like what I have to say, so I’ll start saying more of it.  I’ve never been one who is afraid to speak my mind.

Fortune Cookie:

Go catch a new artist at a venue you’ve never heard of.  Bring some friends, and make it a special event!  You never know who you might meet!

Listening to:

“Fall In Step” – Jadiohead