Artist Adventures
Lots of things to report about the Recording Artists, this week. As there are now no less than 10 Artists either in the studio, promoting their albums or finalizing their recording plans, the ‘Artist Adventures’ section will get a more and more prominent spot in these columns…
Saturday Special!
Close to six PM on a Saturday afternoon (CET), Francis Rodino finally saw all his hard work pay off: $50,000 on SellaBand. The man hardly had time to celebrate, as he is currently in the Big Apple to, among others things, work on some recordings with Maitreya. Fortunately he still found the time to write a few words for the Tribune…
“It's been an emotional and exciting couple of weeks. Now i have a slightly empty feeling inside as a very frustrating but challenging part of the Sellaband experience is now over.
This year on Sellaband has been extremely tough. If you asked me if I'd do it all again I would probably say no. Too stressful. The constant chase for believers, countless hours spent connecting with people, organising gigs, video diaries, working on demos, playing live...now I can concentrate on the making a record. For me this is the real beginning.
Getting the album right is the most important thing rolling in my head right now. Choosing the right producer, and surrounding myself with good team and
thinking positive.
I have made wonderful friends through this experience and I would never do anything differently. It's been a ride. Lots more of my thoughts to come - this is
just a quick email to tell you what I'm feeling and to once again thank everyone for their enthusastic support.”
Julia goes to Germany
Last Friday Julia Marcell traveled to Berlin to meet with our very own Dagmar and some of Germany’s finest recording- and industry-experts. It didn’t take her very long to make up her mind: this is the place where she will record her SellaBand album, and these are the people she wants to work with:
“I'm back from Berlin and suddenly all seems bright and clear. All of my questions have been answered and I know what I'm standing on now. I've met Dagmar, Lars Grewe - the A&R Manager and Moses Schneider - the producer (he has 20 years of experience in recording live!). We talked for 8 hours straight with no food! - that tells a lot about the atmosphere of the meeting. I think we all had great connection right away. I was telling about my plans for the album, we reviewed few ideas budget wise and chatted about everything from Polish music business to Sellaband plans to Nina Hagen. Few great ideas already popped into our heads.
We also went to see two Berlin studios (ChezCherie and Transporterraum) and from the moment I entered them I knew - that's where I want to record! The creative atmosphere was hanging in the air, the walls were decorated with lots of paintings and all kinds of instruments were lying around waiting to be touched and start the magic - these places are breathing art! I think there's nothing more to consider here, the same sudden strike of intuition told me to sign up for Sellaband.:) I'm very happy to have met Lars and Moses, and talk to Dagmar again - they are great guys with lots of experience and very creative approach and I'm happy to have the opportunity to work with them.”
Lars Grewe Moses Schneider
Lars Grewe is the dedicated Project Manager for the Julia Marcell album. A former Head of International for Universal Records, as well as GM for Universal in Germany, he is equally impressed with Julia’s potential: "Julia's music caught me from the first moment I was listening to it. It is probably years ago that I heard so much potential in a new artist. Her music is definitely from a different planet. There is so much creativity, edginess and beauty in her songs... I'm more than happy to work with her on this upcoming album. The Believers really show their great taste in music with giving her this fantastic opportunity! Thank you!!"
In related news, Julia has an upcoming show in the Netherlands: “I'll be playing on November 9th (I'll start around 20:30) in Leeuwarden on Noordelijk Film Festival, where I'll also be having an animation workshop from 8 till 11th November. The entry for my performance is free.”
Clémence almost done
While Julia and Francis can’t wait to get started, Clémence has just finished recording her album. Mixing will be done in London, next month and we’re hoping to turn this project around before the end of the year. After suffering from several setbacks (illness, vocal problems), Clémence writes about how excited she is after working with producer Haydn Bendall:
“The recording sessions of my album’s vocals just ended in Paris at Omega studio. I have been really happy and proud to record, during 6 days of intensive and impassioning work with Haydn Bendall, a wonderful producer who has managed so well to combine my ideas with his talent and tremendous experience. Everything went perfectly. The result is amazing!
We have recorded 8 tracks in english, and we have kept some in French. The mixing time will finally start from November 14th in London, for 9 days, at the famous British Grove studios. I am really excited! Thanks to you all, Believers and SellaBand team, and in particular Adam Sieff who has had the brilliant idea to introduce Haydn to me, we share an amazing adventure! I can’t wait for you all to be able to hear and finally get my CD, and I especially hope that you will love it as much as I do! Thanks one more time from the deepest of my heart to you all who believe in me…
With love, Clémence"
Nemesea Make TV Debut
And finally, a picture, showcasing Nemesea at work. The band completed their first ever major TV performance in the Netherlands, this week. On Pampus Eiland, a historic location close to Amsterdam. The band performed for a brand new and potentially big game show that will air early next year. This should tie in nicely with the start of their ‘In Control Tour’. Dates for the Benelux are expected shortly. Pictures were taken by Bert Treep.
Maitreya's Remix
Maitreya and Second Person's Mark Maclaine have joined forces and produced a remix of Maitreya's track "Harlem Streets". The remix is live and kicking, and available for free, in Maitreya's store.
Community Singing 1
The place to announce special collaborations, competitions and upcoming performance initiatives.
Showdown at Rio Grande
She has threatened to organize a special SellaBand event before, but this time she means business. And has come up with an event that can already be regarded as one of the highlights of 2008. Mysti Mayhem is proud to announce the SellaBand Rio Grande Festival.
“I will have more details soon and hope to have a more complete line up in the next two weeks, but I already wanted to make a first announcement. On February 22 and 23 2008, the Sellaband Rio Grande Music Festival will take place at Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. We have opened a special website where more and more details will be unveiled: www.myspace.com/sellabandriogrande.
Already we can confirm performances from:
More artists will be announced. We are working with
two resorts where Artists and Believers can stay and hang out before and after the shows. One of these resorts is: www.lapalomahotsprings.com, which has an onsite studio where we can also organize all kinds of activities.”
Interest for this event is already very high, so if you want to come, be involved or perform, we suggest you get in touch with Mysti Mayhem asap. The SellaBand Tribune will keep you updated on the artist roster and all other developments with regards to SellaBand Rio Grande Festvial 2008.
Q + A
Lady Haidee
We’ve heard it quite often, these days: how can newcomers stand out among over 5,000 artists on SellaBand. To get a possible answer on this dilemma, we turn to the very colorful Lady Haidee, who joined quite recently, dived in head first into our community and is already on Page 5 of our Artist Search…
Who is Lady Haidee?
“A conjurer of the world of the fairytale. Renaissance dreamer; dreaming in music and pictures. A Multi-media performing artist.”
How did you find out about SellaBand and what made you join?
“I first heard of SellaBand by reading an article in the Metro Newspaper in London. As soon as I discovered this article...I became really excited and thought this is the way for me.
I had reluctantly released a debut EP on an independent label but was very dissatisfied with the production on my existing songs and the arrangements and so forth so I withdraw the CD and left the label. Having been at the mercy of some collaborators... I then saw SellaBand as a bright light that could empower me on my music odyssey and support the music I really want to make. In the past the musicians and co-producers I’ve worked with were working for free and wanted to input creatively, hence the state of songs so far; working for free can create an undesirable tension! So having 50K to make the CD would enable me to fulfill the vision..direct and compose the music and
bring the world of the fairytale to life to share with you all.
Was it difficult to stand out among 5,000 other artists?
“Well, I am my own creation. I don't think it’s a problem to stand out. But I do wish more Believers here to believe and open to me and be part of the fairytale movement.”
How would you describe your art/music?
“Alternative visual pop with a neo classical gothic edge. Rather new wave. My music is enigmatic but universal as most people connect with fairytales. Each song is a story, epic and cinematic. Think early
Goldfrapp and if you know the music in the songs 'Horse & I', and 'Trophy' by Bats for Lashes..with a dash of AIR; this will give you a good idea of my sound closer to me. My vocals have sometimes been
described as quite Nico from the Velvet Underground and I quite agree. I’m a visual artist...I also make pictures that will become part of the live multi-media concerts I give. My pictures work with the
unconscious, dreams and the slightly surreal. My aim is always to be original and write strong melodic songs.”
What are your ambitions?
“I want to make a wonderful spiritually uplifting album and to touch as many people throughout the world. I have a very strong vision and can co-produce my album but want to work with the right producer to guide me in actualizing my ideas in the making/recording; making all the elements come together in beautiful harmony. It is my ambition to connect with as many humans and animals in the music I express; through the primordial telling of fairytales (Yes even animals..Your pets enjoy good music). In the SellaBand CD I wish and must translate from my heart kindness and the teachings of wisdom of the fairytale.”
How much time do you spend on SellaBand?
“I spend a lot of time on SellaBand....always checking in on my page and communicating with my Believers and discovering their talents. There are so many remarkable Believers here; I am deeply moved by their warmth and sincerity. I can't help but be glued to SellaBand and then at times I feel a form of repetitive strain syndrome and wish I could multiply!!”
Do you have any special tactics to raise the $50,000?
“It certainly seems a rather daunting task. I wish to raise the 50K on the strength of my vision and songs in progress. I want all Believers to know I will always be a solid rock for each of them if ever they need my support. That their belief in me is profound and I shall transform their profound belief in me into a astounding CD – a classic work of art they will have for lifetime. I want Believers to know that I am making music from my heart and to have total confidence that I will sell, to Believe in me and my words.”
Why should people Believe in Lady Haidee?
“Believe in me because I have a unique vision and am a strong song writer/storyteller. I’m original....I don't believe in mimicry!! I have hit songs in this album and am ready to record my CD. All the songs you hear on my pages are going to be re-worked as well as some brand new songs to be included on this album. Prepare to be enchanted and open your heart to the mysterious world of the fairytale.”
Adam’s Apples
Proving once again that fruit is good for your ears.
EinsteinBarbie
This snappy Dutch band are a hip trip electronic jazz tip and smart as a whip. Stella Bergsma's voice fronts this eclectic and provocative band that never lets its cool visage drop for an instant, especially on the jazzy "Spy" and "Short Term Memory Failure". With double bass, cello, violin, drums and keyboards/sequencing rounding out the lineup they're prepared for almost anything, as the strings on "Mind" readily prove. Don't miss their website either, possibly the best artist site around. They're "on top of it and pop pop popping it". And you will be too.
Playlist: "Spy".
Thomas Boissy
As Clémence has already proven, language is no barrier on Sellaband. So there's no reason why this French singer/songwriter can't be just as successful as he has a terrific voice and writes well in that distinctly Gallic vein. With plenty of live and TV experience it's no surprise that the uploaded tracks are live recordings, and although a little rough sounding Thomas's quality comes shining through.
Playlist: "Elle S'ennuie".
Riyu
Don't speak Japanese? That's no problem. There's still plenty to enjoy here from the extraordinary Ms Konaka, who's been recording in Japan for a while and has already collaborated with some choice Western artists including Medeski, Martin and Wood, the Jazz Passengers and Marc Ribot. "Hiccups" is great fun, "After Girl" a little more experimental vocally, while "A Funny Egg" could almost be the great missing Rickie Lee Jones song.
Showcase: "After Girl".
Amanda Bentley
There are two obvious reasons why this Canadian artist has what it takes to make it here - an attractive voice and extremely ear friendly guitar-based rock songs. "Around You" is wildly infectious, and although a little generic is no less satisfying for it, and when produced properly could be a really big record. Maybe Amanda could do with a little styling and photographic advice, but don't underestimate her talent or star potential.
Playlist: "Around You".
Feedback: adam@sellaband.com
Weekly Update
A nice round number…
This week it is exactly one year ago that Nemesea became the first ever band to raise $50,000 on SellaBand. A bit of history in the making for this Dutch rock band and we can still remember the rush and excitement as if it were only yesterday. For us it felt like writing history, too. How appropriate that exactly one year later (well, almost exactly), we welcomed artist #10 among our group of Recording Artists. So much has happened in the course of that one year. Not only 10 bands, but also 10 times as many Believers as we had then, 10 times as many registered bands and almost 10 times as many US$ invested in unsigned artists. The great thing is that although it’s been quite a hefty and spectacular ride, we still felt the same kind of excitement this last Saturday when Francis Rodino sold his final couple of thousand dollars in only a few hours time. It made us realize that ‘the dream’ is still very much alive. Now it is our aim to take this disruptive little movement that we have created to the next level. With the first albums in stores (at least in the Benelux), at least three more albums released before the end of 2007 and several very important partnerships almost ready to be announced, we wanted to use this magic number ‘10’ to thank you all once again for still being with us. As we move into the Christmas season it is a great feeling that this community, which started out as a small village has now grown into a modest city. One day we hope to be the music capital of the world, but with the friendly neighborhood spirit still intact.
The SellaBand Team.
Chart Analysis
With a record breaking $15,410 increase in budget, Francis Rodino waves goodbye to the Weekly Charts. It took him 11 Months for his first 25K, only 2 weeks for his second half. How’s that for a fast downhill ride? T-Ka is at #2 with over $4,000 giving evidence to what has been a remarkable week once again. And do we spot a new Jonatan Cerrada? His name is Thomas Boissy, he is brand new on SellaBand and storms in at #3 after only 4 days on the site. Two other debuts in this Weekly Chart: Kamara (USA, #10) and Japan's Riyu (#11). Some 'household names' doing very well: Radius (re-entry at #6), Jon Robert (re-entry #8). Mua'Dib (re-entry #9) and Bim (re-entry #13), and Biggest Gainers Confused5 jumping from 11 to 7. But the Special Mention of the Week goes to MoRRis from Denmark, who actually is a very regular guest on the weekly charts, but usually goes unnoticed. At least by your dedicated 'chart-watcher'. Until now that is, and MoRRis has uploaded another track as well, so it looks like his #20 re-entry might just be the beginning of bigger things for this fine vocalist...
The Week That Was
It was the week in which we received a highly remarkable refund request. It wasn’t the amount ($50,-), nor the way it was requested (the big shiny black button on your profile page), but the reason. A brand new Believer signed up early in the week, spent his first money, got hooked on the site and then decided it was not for him: “This site is far too addictive, I cannot afford to be part of this, both mentally and financially. Please kill my profile asap!” Now, let’s be honest for a minute: how many of you wish they had done the same, in the first week after signing up…? For Mr. Rodino it is too late to have any regrets, as he has now officially entered the ranks of SellaBand Recording Artists. It all happened on a Saturday afternoon (European Time) and hundreds of people watched his hilarious thank you video in the first 30 minutes after he closed his budget. This led the way for T-ka to climb to poll position, SolidTube to be in the Top3 and Wetwerks to enter page 1 once again. Lots of other things happening (see elsewhere in this Tribune), as Nemesea made their first major tv-recording, Julia Marcell met her production team in Berlin, Clémence finishing her vocal sessions in Paris, Mandyleigh arriving in the UK to begin her sessions and Second Person playing a triumphant headlining slot in London.
It almost felt like ‘just another week’ at a major record label. As more SellaBand artists enter the recording studio, it will become more difficult to keep track of all of their whereabouts and activities, but the SellaBand Tribune will at least make a serious attempt to keep everybody informed as much as we can…
Office Powerplay
We’re music fans too, you know. And this week we’ve been listening to…
Alix: Josie - Party in the Country
Chris: Snelle Fellas & Friends – We In It Together
Dagmar: KOFEiNA - What Do You Want
Dolly: Kaitee Page - Wake Up
Johan: Snelle Fellas & Friends – We In It Together
Pim: Snelle Fellas & Friends – We In It Together
ReyGamba: Wetwerks - Further than my eyes
Community Singing 2
Nearfield’s Remix Revolution
Sometimes things start out as something small and simple, but can grow into something beautiful and more complex. We invited Alexx from Nearfield to give you all the inside information on his Lina Ron Remix competition that is currently running:
“October 1st was the day we put a challenge to everyone: Artists were to rebuild/rework/remix/renew/revive/recreate a new track out of a tune by Nearfield dubbed Lina Ron! This song was inspired by an inflamed phone call by Venezuelan revolution woman with the same name who was eventually accused of corruption and had the civil rights to justify and defend herself in public from this blame by making this phone call to a national TV channel!
What really matters on her speech are not the contents itself, but the emotive way she did it! It's this hearted way of exposing her feelings that inspired The Nears to create this track and consequently the challenge behind this competition! SellaBand is in itself a huge revolutionary movement in the making bringing to light new ways of spreading the words of music! You may find the original speech here:
So, how does it work? Just PM Nearfield your e-mail address to get the entire separate instrument bounces to start to work! You may also search on the Forum thread for the lyrics, and use them either in Spanish or English creating the support melody for them! Lyrics might be translated into any other language of your choice! It is up to the artist to decide what the best option is! Creativity should be used fully to make a new track out of it! Pretty much everything can be done here as long as everyone may be able to recognize a little bit of the original tune! Just consider this initiative as an open source model! Changing the lyrics is not a crime!
Artists may add new instruments and may subtract some too! The use of different instruments to play the original tune is also welcome. This competition is on from October 1 st till November 15th midnight! Two extra weeks were added to accommodate eventual new entries resulting from this informative article!
A jury of 17 elements selected from the Nearfield Believers family will listen to all entries and will vote to find the winners! This jury is also to select the12 best remixes to feature on a future CD edition dubbed World R'Evolution, Sellaband Artists for Music and Children, sponsored by Believers Lady Li and Nearfield! This CD is to be sold widely in order to raise funds to help children in need, wanting to learn music but having no money to do it!
Immediately after time expirers, all songs will be sent nameless to each member of the jury that should listen to them all and vote! Every song will be indentified with a number and the jury will have 3 days to deliberate! Each member of the jury is invited either to PM Nearfield separately and publish their individual 20 best charts on their own profile pages no later then November the 18 th, in time for the winners and the CD 12 entries to be announced on that week's Tribune, coming out November the 20th!
After results publication, all artists are invited to post their songs to their profile pages! Believer PV/Nearfield will build a special playlist based exclusively on this tracks! This playlist will be on for two weeks! Artists should remember not to post their songs to their pages before voting is concluded and results published!
As any other competition this one also brings prizes!
The winner gets 15 parts! 2nd and 3 rd prizes will get respectively 5 and 3 parts!
Believer Lady Li is presenting all entrants with 1 part!
Believer Sommersby is offering 5 parts to the winner if the artist belongs to his 'portfolio' and also 1 part to each artist of his 'portfolio' entering the competition!
Believer MaWa is prizing the winner with 10 extra parts!
Any new extra prizes are welcome and may be added at any moment before the time due from whom shall wish to do so .
So now let's get to work and dig your souls for your best remix ever! We would like to thank everyone on SellaBand, artists, Believers, heads, staff…everyone with no exception for the amazing love and support on this and other initiatives! One last word of sorrow for Light's and Emily's Playground recoil, a great loss for us all!”
Daniel Deserves It
And finally, Believer Richard Markham is on a mission to catapult Daniel Ward Murphy into the 25K+ region:
"Also on the competition front, Daniel Ward-Murphy is busy expanding his believer base with a free parts giveaway, sponsored by his existing believers. Until 6pm UK time Wednesday, you can PM Daniel to go into a draw for a Part, either for yourself or anyone else. The only condition is that the recipient must not already have been a DWM believer when the offer started last week. Good luck to Daniel, who deserves all he gets for his talent and determination to succeed."