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The Muse's News

Issue 11.11 - February 2009
ISSN 1480-6975

This issue sponsored by:

Brett Manning's Singing Success
Vocal Training System

[ Back to The Muse's News Index ] [ Home ]


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I n T h i s I s s u e :

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@-- Editor's Musings
@-- Music Reviews - Alex Jasperse & Don Sechelski
@-- New Artist Spotlight Additions
@-- New Artist Spotlight Additions
@-- Songwriting Book Review - by Ed Teja
@-- Musical Notes - Songwriting Contests & Market Info.
@-- Muse's Clues - Songwriting Web sites that inspire - brought
to you by singer/songwriter & teacher, Irene Jackson.
@-- Featured Article - Breaking Down the Wall by Jason Cannata
@-- On Site Featured Article - An article already online for your
viewing pleasure.
@-- Classifieds & Useful Services
@-- Contact information
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ISSN 1480-6975. Copyright 1998-2008 - Jodi Krangle.
For more contact information, see end of issue.
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FIND THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE SONGWRITING IN YOUR LIFE!

All sorts of products and services especially for songwriters,
negotiated so that you get the best price possible. You'll find
means of promotion and distribution, songwriting aids,
educational products, musical instruments and their accessories,
and lots more. Find the perfect gift for the songwriter in your
life - even if it's you!

http://www.musesmuse.com/songwriting-store.html
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S p o n s o r M e s s a g e :

(Many thanks to the sponsors that help support this newsletter!)
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BRETT MANNING'S SINGING SUCCESS SYSTEMATIC VOCAL TRAINING SYSTEM:

It's the "secret weapon" used by some of the winners of the
world's most prestigious vocal awards, including the Doves, the
CMA Awards, and yes, the Grammies.

Learn the one mistake even professional singers make, that drains
away 3 times more vocal energy and yields only half the needed
vocal power. Find out about the 3 simple exercises that allow
even a "beginner" to make rapid increases in range (this also
eliminates vocal strain). Learn Brett's secret for "dissolving"
your break, so you'll never have to flip into falsetto again, but
you'll still sing as high as you want--in full voice - and LOTS
more.

The package includes 12 audio CDs (packed with 17 repeatable
lessons, including both technique--the simple, yet powerful
exercises, and style lessons for building vocal licks and
trills); a workbook for illustration; and a DVD for visual
reference and demonstration. It's a complete course - and it has
a money-back guarantee!

Visit http://tinyurl.com/35t3lz for more details and start
yourself on the road to improving your vocal chops today!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

E d i t o r ' s M u s i n g s :

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Thanks for joining us for another month! I think folks are still
building up their momentum after a very busy holiday. But that
just means we'll all have a bit of time to catch our breaths and
begin again. :) I hope things are going really well for you
all.

We have a new columnist! Scott Morris of You Can Play Guitar has
joined us to help those interested learn how to play the bass
guitar. You'll find more information on his column at
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-scottmorris.html . I think you'll
really enjoy his articles - *especially* if you've always wanted
to pick this wonderful instrument up, but didn't know where to
start.

Once again, in case you missed it last month, Gian's 2008 Muse's
Muse Music Awards can be viewed from his reviews menu page at
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-gian.html . He's given the nod to
a lot of truly fantastic performers this year and I highly
suggest you give them a listen - to appreciate and be inspired by
your fellow musicians and songwriters. Also, Jeannie
Deva, our resident voice expert, has returned with a great
article that I think you'll all really enjoy. There's a new
Muse's Clues from Irene Jackson, and another review of a useful
book (one that has both an online AND offline component, making
it a bit unique) by Ed Teja. There are also a bunch of new
songwriting contests to have a look at, if you're interested.

That said, I'll get on with announcing the raffle winners so that
we can move on to the meat of the matter. :)

* Robin Stine, from Pensacola, FL, has won a copy of
Virtual Studio Systems' Lyricist software
(http://www.musesmuse.com/vss-review.html).

* Erin Friedman from Cottonwood, CA has won a free 3
month membership to SongU (http://www.SongU.com), an
Internet-based learning environment providing online coaching,
co-writing and pitching opportunities, in addition to over 70
multi-level courses developed by award-winning songwriters.

* Chris Hartzog, from Everett, WA, has won a copy of
Indie-Music.com's Musician's Toolkit CD
(http://www.musicianstoolkit.com/muse/)

* Kenny Woods from Summit, NJ, has won a 6 month subscription to
the Onlinegigs (http://www.onlinegigs.com/) service. This
valuable service is a powerful tool for musicians, agents, record
companies and managers designed to virtually automate the
administration of booking and promoting a band or bands.

* Dan Robinson from Mars, PA, has won a copy of
Bronson Herrmuth's "100 Miles To A Record Deal"
(http://www.songrepair.com/bookforweb2.htm).

* Greg Reierson from Surrey, BC, has won a copy of Sean
Farrington's "The Little Black Book of Band Profit
Secrets" (http://www.bandprofit.com/).

* Corinne Curcio from Brooklyn, NY, has won a copy of the
book reviewed in the December 2008 issue of this newsletter: The
Handbook for Working Singers by Roma Waterman
(http://www.musesmuse.com/11.9-December08.html#book)

* François Toutain from Louannec, France has won a copy of the
book reviewed in the November issue of this newsletter: Northern
Songs by Brian Southall with Rupert Perry (reviewed here:
http://www.musesmuse.com/11.8-November08.html#book).

If you'd like one of these great raffle prizes for your very own,
all you need to do is write to me with your first two choices for
your prize and your address info (this is important!) so that I
can get it to you. The prizes are all listed at the top of
http://www.musesmuse.com/musenews.html .

Wishing you all every success,

--Jodi

Back to Menu
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S p o n s o r M e s s a g e :

(Many thanks to the sponsors that help support this newsletter!)
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LEARN HOW TO PLAY GUITAR - QUICKLY AND EASILY!

You Can Play Guitar author and publisher Scott Morris now offers
7 Free email guitar lessons that include easy to learn guitar
tablature, a sound file and free guitar lesson videos of his easy
to learn Billboard top rated guitar method that includes learning
guitar scales and theory used by professional songwriters. The
Free Guitar Lesson Videos - teach samples of learning the names
of the notes, sharps and flats, easy to play guitar chords and
more great information for beginner to professional level
guitarist.

http://tinyurl.com/6o27j7

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M u s i c R e v i e w s : Alex Jasperse & Don Sechelski

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Visit http://www.musesmuse.com/gian2008-intro.html for Gian
Fiero's 2008 Muse's Muse Awards.

NEW MUSIC REVIEWS SINCE LAST MONTH INCLUDE:

Alex Jasperse:
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* Royston Vince
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-roystonvince-out.html
* Dal Knezevic
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-dalknezevic-longdarknight.html

Don Sechelski:
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* Black Jake and The Carnies
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-blackjackcarnies-bjatc.html
* Dayna Lane
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-daynalane-anything.html
* Nick Zubeck
http://www.musesmuse.com/mrev-nickzubeck-tracker.html

---------------
******

For bios on each of the reviewers, see
http://www.musesmuse.com/musicreviews.html . If you're
considering sending in your own CD for review, you can also view
that page to find out which reviewer reviews your genre. Thanks!

Back to Menu

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N e w A r t i s t S p o t l i g h t A d d i t i o n s :

Great music is only a click away!
Here are just some of the great CDs highlighted in the
Artist Spotlight section of The Muse's Muse at
http://www.musesmuse.com/artistspotlights.html

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John Brendan Russel - Genre: COUNTRY

Humor collides with amazing country melodies! "Family Portrait"
explores family life with wit and warmth. The arrangements run
the country spectrum from "Newgrass" to "Americana". John Brendan
Russell's songwriting is influenced by Jim Croce and Jerry Reed
and their ability to tell great stories with humor.

http://www.johnbrendanrussell.com/

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Doug Spears - Genre: FOLK & TRADITIONAL

Thoughtful, intelligent lyrics in the style of Gordon Lightfoot
and John Prine, memorable melodies, a warm, engaging acoustic
guitar style and smooth, rich vocals reminiscent of John Denver.
That??™s acoustic folk artist, Doug Spears. Doug's songs tell
engaging stories mixing musical elements of Americana, bluegrass
and acoustic folk. Turn off the TV and the cell phone and enjoy.

http://www.dougspearsmusic.com/
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S o n g w r i t i n g B o o k R e v i e w : by Ed Teja
Cheap Advice on Songwriting
60 Tips to Stimulate Your Musical Creativity
By Mark Bendig
http://cheapadviceonmusic.com/
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A lot of songwriting books are by famous songwriters and are
intended to teach you how to write famous songs—hit songs. They
approach the subject with either a "how I do it" or "how all of
us successful songwriters do it" that packages the collective
wisdom of the famous songwriter and friends. There is great merit
in those books, especially if your intent is to write hit songs
and compete in the day to day music business. This ebook doesn't
use that kind of approach at all. Instead, Bendig assumes that
you want to write songs, probably are writing them already, and
just want to write more, better, and more diverse songs, without
keeping an eye on the Billboard charts. So it is a book of tips
that spur you into increased creativity.

Although it does not really address the craft of songwriting
directly - it is not a book of rules - it does point to some
ideas and concepts. In some cases, Bendig suggests that merely
thinking about these things helps create an awareness that will
keep working for you. In other cases, you might find that the
ideas push you to think deeper and more profoundly about some
aspect of your songwriting, such as his discussion of the way
consonants affect the lyric line. Carried far enough, it almost
verges on poetics. But there are no in depth discussions or
analysis here, just an explanation, and a few examples to clarify
the points, and then you are left to determine if that bit is
worth pursuing. What is extremely helpful is that Bendig provides
musical examples to make his points. They are his own songs, and
he points to the sections that clearly show the issue at hand.
And no, he doesn't think he has mastered the tips himself, but he
is aware of them, and shows you how and where he uses them.

This is probably the place to point out that there are two
versions of this ebook — one for offline use and one for online
use. They both have the text in pdf format, and folders with the
chords and lyrics for all the songs he uses for examples. The
offline book, however, comes with mp3s of the songs — 21 of them.
In the online version you can click a link to hear the tunes. So
you can choose a style to suit how you work. The clever thing
about this approach is that you are seeing how he uses the ideas
he is presenting. It doesn't matter if the songs are your cup of
tea or not, the issue is that the songs eliminate a lot of
tedious explanation (we are about music after all) and makes sure
you don't misunderstand. And if do you like the music, you get
the equivalent of 2+ cds of music along with the book.

The book breaks into five chapters. The first two are about
lyrics (starting ideas and lyrical patterns), the third is
musical patterns, the fourth is about spurring creativity, and
last some final advice to help you get the songs completed.

Many of the tips you'll find here are common sense, some are
reassuring, and some could provide some real insight into your
own songwriting. Which are which, will depend on you and your
background and goals. One of the compelling things about this
book is that it encourages experimentation. Congratulations to
Bendig for keeping songwriting fun, rather than a too serious
chore.

******

ABOUT THE REVIEWER:

Ed Teja writes a broad range of music. His songs and
instrumentals have appeared in television shows (Court TV and
Discover Channel) and in a variety of videos. He has had two CDs
released by Morrhythm Records (www.outstandingmusic.com) and is
currently cowriting songs with an exciting singer who is working
on her second CD. As a performer, Ed has appeared at strange
venues in Hong Kong, Canada, St. Martin, Bequia, Venezuela,
Grenada and Trinidad, as well as the Silver City (New Mexico)
Blues festival, Pickamania, and the Tucson (Arizona) Folk
Festival.

You can hear some of Ed's music at: http://www.myspace.com/edteja

If you'd like *your* book reviewed (as long as it has something
to do with songwriting, of course!), please do email us and let
us know!

Back to Menu
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S p o n s o r M e s s a g e :

(Many thanks to the sponsors that help support this newsletter!)

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WRITE BETTER SONGS WITH MASTERWRITER AS YOUR SONGWRITING PARTNER
NOW WITH SPECIAL DISCOUNTED PRICING!


"This remarkable piece of software turns your Mac or PC into a
valuable songwriter partner"
-- Richard Leiter, Keyboard Magazine

If you have a high speed connection, you can download a 30-Day
demo. If not, we will send you a copy for $9.95 which will be
deducted from the purchase price if you decide to buy.

Receive a special ** $70.00 ** discount off the $289.00 list
price when purchasing through the Muse's Muse!
Please use discount coupon # 3004.

Endorsed by: BMI, ASCAP, NSAI, PRS and Taxi.
Winner Best of Show Macworld 2003

http://www.musesmuse.com/masterwriter-songwriting-software.html

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M u s i c a l N o t e s : Songwriting Contests & Market Info.

In the interest of conserving space, I will only be including
changes to this listing in this newsletter. All other contests
and market information that have already been listed here, are
displayed at http://www.musesmuse.com/contests.html &
http://www.musesmuse.com/markets.html . Please check there
regularly for updates!
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2009 SANDRA JAMES MUSIC FOUNDATION 2ND ANNUAL SONGWRITING CONTEST

We’re excited to repeat the Sandra James Music Foundation
Songwriting Contest for the 2nd year. Our contest in 2008 was a
great success! We are a non-profit organization committed to
supporting the causes that were important to Sandra: positive
changes involving children, music, peace, and the protection of
the environment. First place prize is $1,000, recognition of the
win on the Sandra James Music Foundation website, and an
opportunity to include the winning song on a CD. The contest will
run from January 1st 2009 to March 31st 2009. The winner will be
announced May 1st. Please visit our website for more information
and send us your songs!

Fee: $25.00
Rules and application form may be found at
http://www.sandrajames.com
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THE 2009 SINGER/SONGWRITER AWARDS - ROUND 1

The Singer/Songwriter Awards from We Are Listening is about the
hottest international songwriting contest in the world. It's no
surprise that participating artists have gone on to sign with top
management, license their music for film and television, as well
as collaborate with renowned producers and enjoy substantial
uplifts in independent record sales.
Deadline: 1st March 2009
Fee: $30
Details: *http://www.wearelistening.org/singer.php.
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2009 LYRIC WRITER AWARDS – ROUND 1

The Lyric Writer Awards from We Are Listening is the ultimate
contest for writers seeking music publishing, co-writing and song
placement opportunities. If you long to work with professional
songwriters and dream of getting your songs cut by major label
artists, this could really be the chance of a lifetime!
Deadline: 31st March 2009
Fee: $20
Details: *http://www.wearelistening.org/about_lwa.php.
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AFFORDABLE PRESS RELEASE DISTRIBUTION

My PR Music Wire offers press release writing and direct email
distribution to thousands of music journalists, radio stations,
and managers. You can also post your music press release for free
on our website by emailing it to freewire@myprmusicwire.com.
Receive 10% off your entire order when you enter the coupon code
muse10 at checkout!

http://www.myprmusicwire.com/
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2009 ERIE CANAL SONG CONTEST

This is our second contest sponsored by the Erie Canal Discovery
Center, part of the Niagara County Historical Society in Lockport
New York. The entries should be about the Canal, the Locks or
Lockport. The deadline for entry is April 1st 2009. The award
will be made May 9th, 2009 at the annual "Key to the Locks"
ceremony in Lockport. It is the ceremonial opening of the Canal
season. You can listen to last years contest winner as well as
obtain all the necessary information to enter at:
www.niagarahistory.org.

This is a free contest.
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STACK THE ODDS IN YOUR FAVOR WITH THE ULTIMATE PROMOTION AND FREE
CONSULTATIONS


Do you have a dream of having your music heard, being on the
radio, or writing songs for other artists? You're not alone. And
now, there's a faster and better way than ever before to get
there. Song Warrior Music will promote your music professionally,
to only publishers, producers, and record labels who specialize
in your style of music and are actively seeking new songs. From
the design and production of presentation materials to follow up
calls/letters/mailings, and unlimited consultation before,
during, and after the promotion, everything is custom designed to
fit your music and your specific goals. Song Warrior Music is
committed to putting the music first and giving you the absolute
best possible chance for achieving your dream, because it's not
just a career, it's your music. So, if you are ready to go for
that dream, to schedule your free consultation, just go to
http://www.songwarriormusic.com/musesmuse or call (573) 814-2169.
You can talk with the owner, Jason Cannata, directly, ask him any
questions you have, and find out more about The Song Warrior
Music Promotion. If you believe in yourself and your dreams, and
never give up, anything is possible, so contact Song Warrior
Music today and
Go For It!
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MUSKOGEE SONGWRITING CONTEST

Youth and adult amateur songwriters are invited to enter the 2009
Muskogee Songwriting Contest. The contest is open to anyone
living in Oklahoma and making any genre of music. The fee for
each entry is $15.

Entries must be mailed to the Muskogee Area Arts Council, P.O.
Box 3298, Muskogee, OK, 74402, and postmarked no later than Feb.
28. Entries also may be e-mailed to maacoksongwriters@yahoo.com
by Feb. 28. Ten adult and 10 youth finalists will be invited to
perform at the April 4 songfest in Muskogee. First prize is $500,
second $200 and third $100. Contest rules and entry information
can be obtained by going to the arts council Web site at
maacok.com and clicking on the “Songwriters” link. The contest is
sponsored by MAAC, the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and John
Michael's Sound and Music.
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HOW CAN MUSOWIKI HELP YOU?

Musowiki.net is a FREE global directory of music-industry
services. It helps Musos who want to grow their music to connect
with people offering help. Whether you need to write better
songs, learn to play or to book your next tour of Europe,
Musowiki contains services that bring your goals within reach.

People offering services that help Musos can LIST THEMSELVES FREE
(instructions are here:
http://musowiki.net/index.php/Category:Listing). Just copy, paste
and fill in the blanks.

If someone has done a great job for you, give them a boost by
saying so on their discussion page. There are many ways you can
support the project - feel free to explore the community.
www.musowiki.net
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A PRESTIGIOUS JURY WILL ASSIST TALENT SEEKERS TO FIND THE 1000
MOST CREATIVE PEOPLE OF 2009


Talent Seekers has organized an international contest to discover
and promote the most outstanding people in their respective
creative fields, one of them being music. The jury includes top
professionals, such as Rafael Revert, founder of the two most
important Spanish music radio stations (40 Principales and Cadena
100), Jimmy Destri, founder member of the legendary American band
Blondie or the distinguished Canadian producer John Dimon, winner
of an Emmy and producer of well known television programmes, such
as "Stars of Tomorrow".

Fee: None.
Deadline: 31st December 2009.
URL: http://www.talentseekers.net/index.php
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THE DELI: A MUSIC WEBSITE FOCUSING ON LOCAL MUSIC SCENES

The Deli is the website that every A&R person and local promoter
checks out on a weekly basis. Our publication and web sites focus
on local music scenes and emerging artists (from rock to folk to
experimental, with a little bit of hip hop as well). We currently
publish a printed magazine about the NYC music scene and have
daily updated , separate web pages tackling the new emerging
music in NYC, LA, SF and Nashville. Check it out here
www.thedelimagazine.com.

You can submit your music via the web through our open blog pages
(here's the one for Nashville:
http://www.thedelimagazine.com/nashville/openblog/)
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FREE MUSIC PROMOTIONS EBOOK!

The author of The Little Black Book Of Band Profit Secrets has
come thru again! He's just published: "Co-Op Synergy Power, Your
Fast-Track To Profit, Exposure And Free Advertising..." and
musesmuse.com fans can get it for free.

Click here> http://jodimuse.ssl4000.hop.clickbank.net/

And be sure to check out The Little Black Book Of Band Profit
Secrets while your there... It's worth the look.
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STUDIOTRAXX.COM: BREAKING NEW GROUND - FOR YOU!

StudioTraxx.com provides an e-commerce platform that allows
artists/bands to purchase and book time with musicians,
engineers, producers, and other music professionals for online
studio collaboration purposes. They facilitate the entire music
production process from beginning to end — from finding and
booking the right talent to managing all resulting collaboration
activities.

StudioTraxx is actively building its talent network and is
encouraging both those who offer services and those who need
services to sign up and register. There are no costs to join the
site. Creating an account is FREE.

http://www.studiotraxx.com/?partner=837
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THE INDIE GUIDE IS ON SALE FOR $10.95 AND INCLUDES THE INDIE
CONTACT GUIDE!


For a limited time only, North Shore Records, Inc, in celebration
of tour season and music success has put The Indie Guide on sale
for $10.95 plus shipping. The normal cost is $25.95 plus
shipping. In addition to the 190-page book, The Indie Contact
Guide, which contains thousands of contact names, address, email
addresses, phone numbers and contact names will be included.
To Your Music Success! http://www.theindieguide.com
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THE INDIE VENUE BIBLE - A GROUNDBREAKING VENUE DIRECTORY FOR ANY
ARTIST PLANNING TO TOUR IN THE US OR CANADA!


26,000 live music venues of all sizes are featured including
clubs, bars, restaurants, lounges, coffee shops, theaters, halls,
churches, book stores, community centers, house concerts and open
mics. There are also 1,500 festivals listed as well as over
1,000 colleges for any artist that wants to plan a college tour.

Jumpstart your tour today!
Visit https://nt4.magma.ca/bigmeteor/ivbmuse_order.cfm
for more information!
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SONGWRITING CONSULTATION SPECIAL OFFER:

Pete & Pat Luboff will pay for the phone call for Muse's Muse
songwriters who use the Luboffs' songwriting consultation
service. The service provides detailed, constructive song
analysis, answers to all your creative and business questions and
references to contacts when appropriate. Visit
http://www.writesongs.com/consults.htm for more information.

Back to Menu
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M u s e ' s C l u e s : by Irene Jackson

©1998-2009 Moonstone Productions All Rights Reserved.
Used By Permission

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This past Christmas season, my husband and I attended an event
which has become an annual tradition for many Canadians. Stuart
McLean is a broadcaster with the CBC (Canadian Broadcasting
Corporation) and every Sunday we tune into his "Vinyl Café" on
CBC Radio. He often tours the country with the show, and during
the month of December he has a live Christmas show that he brings
to many cities across the country. His show is also broadcast on
NPR in the US and can be heard online through a podcast:

http://www.cbc.ca/vinylcafe/home.php

The Vinyl Café is a collection of "stories, essays and music
(both live and recorded)" and Stuart McLean is a wonderful
storyteller. Not only does he read his own writings on air, but
he encourages listeners to submit their own stories and he will
usually read one or two of them each week as part of the show. A
song usually follows the story, and often the song relates to the
story topic. The show is folksy in nature and always fun to
listen to and Stuart McLean is a distinctive voice who never
fails to entertain.

Whatever style you write in, however you think of your
songwriting, you are always telling a story. The story might
only be about a moment in time or painting an emotional
landscape, but the best songs have a great beginning, middle and
end, just like a great story. Storytelling itself has become
almost a lost art in our technically-obsessed world, but it is
something every songwriter should think about when penning
lyrics, and the Vinyl Café is a great re-introduction to the
world of telling stories.

You can get the latest podcast from the website by either
subscribing or downloading straight on to your computer. Listen
to just one of these shows and I guarantee you'll be inspired!

******

Irene Jackson is a performing songwriter from Victoria, BC in
Canada. Aside from writing, recording and performing, she also
maintains a website for songwriters that includes tips, articles
and a songwriter's messageboard.

Songwriting Tips: http://www.irenejackson.com/tips.html
Homepage: http://www.irenejackson.com
Songs: http://www.soundclick.com/irenejackson

Back to Menu
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F e a t u r e d A r t i c l e : by Jason Cannata

BREAKING DOWN THE WALLS © 2008
http://www.songwarriormusic.com

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Have you ever thought about that great big iron wall that stands
between you and the music business? You know the one. It's the
main thing that is keeping you from getting signed, being played
on the radio, or accepted by the industry in general. Sometimes
it can even feel like you are one side of the wall, and all of
the other artists who have "made it" are lined up on the other
side. And who sits in the middle on top of the wall? All of the
record executives who are smiling down at you, reminding you what
a long and hard climb it is. Well, I've got news for them and
you. Long gone are the days where we actually have to throw a
rope up and start climbing. Basically, we know that when we begin
to climb up that "wall", there will be someone on top trying to
make us slip or fall off, so we would have to start all over
again. That's why we aren't going to try to get around any walls,
we are going straight through them. It's a lot easier than you
may think.

The secret of the music business is that there is no wall there
at all. It's an illusion and it always has been. And it was
created by the music industry itself to give it leverage. I know
personally how big the wall can seem at times, but once I
realized that it was all in my mind, it became a lot easier to
get past. Let me explain a little. It goes back to when we were
growing up and very impressionable. When we see a picture of
someone on an album or magazine cover, it makes them seem as if
they are on a different level. They are "important". Their hair,
clothes, and the way they are posing is perfect. And if you
combine that with a talent like singing, writing, or playing an
instrument, it begins to create that wall in our mind. The one
that says that they are so different from us, they are on "that
side".

Even with the best intentions and determination, that wall put up
by the music business is still there. Persistence and confidence
are the two things that will take it down. That wall is in your
mind. It isn't real. There is no difference between you and the
artists who have made careers in music. They are people just like
you and me. And if you actually met some of them, you would know
how human they really are. But they were willing to believe in
their dreams enough to work hard enough to make them a reality.
If you are willing to do the same, then there is no wall between
you and the music business. That's where your confidence comes
in. Believe in yourself and your talent. Remind yourself that you
belong there too. It can and will happen because you will make
it. And don't let anyone tell you that you can't or won't make
it. It's not their dream, it's not their decision.

We have all heard about what the odds are, and that very few
people really make it and are successful. Being persistent
actually changes that, and turns the odds in your favor. Think
about this. It's virtually impossible to keep doing something for
an extended period of time and not get better at it. This works
for anything. That same philosophy can be applied to music as
well. The longer you are in it, the better you will get, the more
experienced you will be, and the more contacts you will make. I
challenge anyone to keep pitching songs to publishers and record
companies and not make any contacts. You can't help it because it
will just happen. And the longer you keep trying, the more times
you keep sending songs in, the more you will learn, and the more
feedback you will get. Just being involved in music will lead
you to different places and people. How you use those experiences
is what will determine how successful you are. But by giving up
and walking away after a certain amount of time, you just become
another statistic. This is what category most people fall into.
And that's why the odds are what they are. Don't pay attention to
those odds because they don't apply to you as long as you don't
give up. Believe in yourself, believe in yourself, and never
give up.

*****

Jason Cannata has been in the music business for over fifteen
years as a songwriter, artist, and producer, with five songs on
the radio, and he has created a company, Song Warrior Music, that
is focused on helping others achieve their dreams in a completely
new way that is changing how the music industry works forever.
If your goal is having your music heard, being on the radio, or
writing music for other artists, go to
http://www.songwarriormusic.com/musesmuse today and schedule your
free consultation to see how Jason can help you enjoy building a
successful music career.

Back to Menu

=================================================================

" O N S I T E " F E A T U R E D A R T I C L E :

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Effective Lead Vocals - Part 2 - By Jeannie Deva
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-jeanniedeva-elv-p2.html

The second in a three-part series, Celebrity Vocal Coach Jeannie
Deva focuses on several other components to help you "sell" your
song with conviction and artistry.

Editor's Note: Jeannie has had an extended leave of absence for
several years and this is her first article after returning. I
really think you'll enjoy it. :)

-----

Bass Guitar Tips #1 - by Scott Morris
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-scottmorris-bass1.html

Scott's first article is an easy introduction to learning how to
play the bass. You'll be jamming along with other guitarists in
no time!

-----

The Cold, Hard Facts - by Mick Polich
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-mickpolich-coldhardfacts.html

Some truths remain evident in the music business at any level -
what are they, and when do they occur? Mick looks at the
entry-level of dealing with such roadwork....
-----

Music Collecting #1 - by Mick Polich
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-mickpolich-musiccollecting1.html

Vinyl,cassette, CD, and downloads - get started on a
never-ending, inexhaustable hobby/vocation/mission of collecting
music! Mick gives ya the ol' Blue Collar insight...

-----

Choices - A Blue Collar Perspective - By Mick Polich
http://www.musesmuse.com/col-mickpolich-choices.html

Choices - we all gotta make 'em, good or bad. Mick looks at some
of his own personal choices, and muses on how choices we make on
our art, music, and lives - big or small - can weigh out.

=================================================================

C l a s s i f i e d s & U s e f u l S e r v i c e s :

-----------------------------------------------------------------
THE 9th EDITION OF THE INDIE BIBLE IS NOW AVAILABLE!

The Indie Bible shows you where to get your music reviewed, your
songs played, and your CDs sold. Now in its Seventh Edition, The
Indie Bible has 330 pages of valuable contacts and music-related
articles.

The 9th Edition of the Indie Bible contains:
4200 publications around the world that will REVIEW your CD!
3400 radio stations around the world that will PLAY your songs!
500 vendors and services that will help you to SELL your music!
200 sites where you can UPLOAD your band's MP3 files!
500 helpful resources and sites where you can PROMOTE your band!
52 articles that will help your career to MOVE forward rapidly!

Listings include web, e-mail and physical address, as well as
phone and fax numbers.

For details and to order online visit:
http://www.bigmeteor.com/muse
-----------------------------------------------------------------
THE SUCCESSFUL SONGWRITER MOTIVATION & MEDITATION AUDIO

Inspired by the songwriter's journey, and through understanding
the principles talked about in "THE SECRET", this audio program
is specifically created for the songwriter based on those
findings. Through Power of Thought and Understanding the Law of
Attraction, you will have the tools, knowledge & ability to
create the thoughts, experiences, and circumstances to be a
phenomenally Successful Songwriter. Included is a guided
meditation that is as passionate as it is empowering!

Muse's Muse Visitors - Enter Promo Code: 42567 for Discount.
http://www.songwritermeditation.com/

Limited Introductory Offer of $12.95 for Digital Download
Discounts for CD, and CD/Digital Download Combo shown on ordering
page.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
LYRICIST VERSION 3: THE SONGWRITER'S BEST FRIEND

Lyricist is the first-of-its-kind word processor designed
specifically for musicians, songwriters, and poets. The software
includes a Rhyming Dictionary, Thesaurus, Album Categorization,
Chord Charting, Chord Generator, Song Arrangement, and On-Line
Copyright Link.

The new version 3 release adds support for "Piano Style" chord
symbols, Nashville Number System, and Transposition features -
all in one easy-to-use package - and all for only $44.95! (That's
$5.00 off to all Muse's News readers who purchase from the review
link at www.musesmuse.com/vss-review.html!)

This tool will revolutionize the way you write and organize your
writing. Be the best songwriter you can be and purchase Lyricist
today! http://www.musesmuse.com/vss-review.html
-----------------------------------------------------------------
INDIE-MUSIC.COM - WHERE SERIOUS MUSICIANS SURF

One of the most respected and imitated indie music sites on the
web, Indie-Music.com has been serving the Independent Music
Community since 1996 with streaming audio, monthly CD Reviews,
huge industry search directory, success-building resources,
classifieds, and much-needed recognition. The site offers a
wealth of information to artists trying to survive & thrive in
today's competitive music industry.

http://www.indie-music.com/
=================================================================
ADVERTISING RATES: For Classifieds: US$50 Max. 8 lines, where
a line = 65 characters including spaces and punctuation. All
contracts must be prepaid. Write to: editor@musesmuse.com
For Newsletter Sponsorship rates and other advertising
opportunities, please see http://www.musesmuse.com/media.html .

Back to Menu
=================================================================

C o n t a c t I n f o & C r e d i t s :

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Jodi Krangle ............................................. EDITOR
Kathryn Obenshain ...........................GRACIOUS PROOFREADER
-----------------------------------------------------------------
The Muse's News is a free monthly newsletter for and about
songwriters. Subscribers are welcome to recirculate or reprint
The Muse's News for nonprofit use as long as the appropriate
credit is given and the ENTIRE text of the newsletter is
included (including credits and information at the end of each
issue). Others should contact me at editor@musesmuse.com.
All articles copyrighted by their authors.

Back issues and other information (how to subscribe and
unsubscribe, etc.) will be available at:
http://www.musesmuse.com/musenews.html

The Muse's News is part of The Muse's Muse, a web resource for
songwriters: http://www.musesmuse.com/

For further information, send your e-mail to:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
adinfo@musesmuse.com - How to place a classified ad, pass
on market information or sponsor
The Muse's News.
editor@musesmuse.com - To submit articles,reviews,ideas,etc.

SNAILMAIL: Please contact me first at editor@musesmuse.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Back issues of the newsletter can be read at the National
Library of Canada ecollection:
http://collection.nlc-bnc.ca/100/201/300/muses_news/index.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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