workthemic.com

***I've discontinued using Blogger and moved everything over to workthemic.com.***
New posts come out once per week, usually on Fridays.

About Work the MIC

The Mission of Work the MIC

Work the MIC (Music Industrial Complex) is a collection of lessons learned through my failures as a musician. Ever since I started writing, performing, and recording music, I've often wished that there was someone over my shoulder telling me what not to do. Failure is a great way to learn, but learning from the failures of others is probably the best way to learn.

Now that I've got a decent failure pile of my own, I want to offer what knowledge I've acquired to those people who are starting their music journey, whether they're 17 and playing in their first garage band, or 64 and playing Jimmy Buffet covers at a dive bar for extra cash.

What is the "MIC (Music Industrial Complex)?"

People often refer to the "Music Industry." That implies that there is a system out there that is producing music. That is a misnomer. Artists produce music. They don't need anyone to help them do that. An entirely separate system has sprung up around those musicians... record labels, venues, social media, producers, marketers, managers... these people do not make music. They make money. More specifically, they take money from musicians... the people who make the music.

If you want to make music, go make it. Sing. Play an instrument. Get a pad and paper, download an app, and record your music if you like. Play a show if you've got the balls, or if you think you have talent. But, if you want to be a "serious musician" to the point where you make money or recruit fans, let me help you save some of the time, money, and energy that I've lost.

My history with the MIC

I've been a vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter in a "serious" original band since 2006. Our music has been featured on regional radio, online radio platforms, in weddings, and blogs. A couple of our songs have been used in corporate and narrative videos.

I've written the lyrics and music for approximately 7 albums (I've actually lost track at this point), and have been intricately involved in the production of 5 full-length albums, as well as an EP. My band is currently working on recording another full-length, due to be released in Fall, 2014.

I've been part of a small songwriter's collective since 2010. We've written approximately two albums' worth of material.

I played multiple instruments in church bands from 1998 through 2011.

I've worked as a "sound guy" for original bands, cover bands, bars, corporate events, and churches.

I've done audio work (Foley and ADR) for a couple of video projects.

I've engineered a couple of recording projects just for funsies.

How often is Work the MIC updated?

New posts are published once per week, typically on Thursdays.

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