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190 West Reynolds
Ozark, Al. 36360
(866)-HARLOWS
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Pro tip #45: Leadership, from revolution to evolution

Pro tip #45: Leadership, from revolution to evolution

Harmony is a vital part of what makes a band sound great. The ability to harmonize throughout a melody immediately causes listeners to take note. However, many leaders fail to recognize that the most important harmony in a band is not audible. It’s the harmony that’s a physical bond and trust among band members and a leader’s ability to guide a band towards collective success.

I’m going to share a perspective which has ultimately led me to managing and building successful bands. If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you will see them talking about components of a successful bands such as same commitment, work ethic, and values, however, this one is directed at leadership.

Let’s first get this out of the way. Do you have to be born a leader to manage and lead a band? No. Matter of fact, industry has begun to acknowledge that people become leaders as a result of experiences (experiences = surviving mistake). I’ve often talked about going back in a time machine to punch myself in the face and this is no different. My actions as a young leader were terrible at best. Fortunately, I’m a quick learn and my survival of mistake (experience) has lead to some positive results decades later.

In this article, we’re going to talk leadership in a method of revolution versus evolution. With many years in management roles, leading teams, bands, companies, and even sports teams for my kids, I’ve been fortunate to learn some really valuable lessons and I can certainly testify that Theodore Roosevelt knew what he was talking about when he said “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”.

It’s my hope that some young person who is starting a band will read this and consider that leadership is not about a title of being a boss and barking orders, rather, a skill that is about building teams and helping others.

Revolution vs. Evolution:

John Maxwell once said, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” This quote encapsulates the essence of leadership as a guiding force that navigates the path towards a common goal. However, the way leaders choose to tread this path and the outcomes can vary significantly.

Revolutionary Approach

A revolutionary approach to leadership in managing a band may entail swift decisions, imposing authority, and prioritizing results above all else. Although that may sound like a quick way to success, and generally used in the industry through “hired guns” (fired guns / commodities), it’s my opinion that it doesn’t truly build a band.

As an extreme example, if someone put a gun to your head and told you to do something, chances are you comply quickly. At no point in time would you respect the person who is forcing the action, nor trust them.

Assuming your band leader does not pull a gun on you, what about a band leader yelling about someone’s ability to not play something?  Maybe threatening that they will be fired from the band? Docking pay…etc?

While an approach with threatening words can yield immediate outcomes to many band members, it often fails to cultivate genuine respect and loyalty among band members. Instead of fostering collaboration and empowerment, the band members will ultimately have resentment and discord, ultimately undermining the cohesion and morale of the group and causing breakups or a rotating door of musicians in the band.

This type of leadership style often comes from growing up in an environment where authority is based on punishment and not reward. Generally, a hierarchical mindset or power which is completely opposite of what a band is, an ensemble of peers going for the same goal with mutual respect.

Is there a place for this style? sure.. the music industry has it now with hired guns. It is the easiest model to hire and fire musicians as commodities. Musicians are simply employees.

However, in the context of building bands, this method rarely works in my experience. I’ve witnessed band leaders to this day in our area whose reputation has been completely ruined and regardless of the great people in the band, the leader will likely never get support from the community because of the way they treated and led their band.

Evolutionary Approach

Contrastingly, an evolutionary approach to leadership prioritizes relationship-building, mentorship, and personal growth over immediate results. As John Maxwell aptly stated, “Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.” In the context of managing a band, this means investing time and effort into understanding each member’s strengths, aspirations, and challenges, and providing the necessary support and guidance to help them thrive.

In the most successful bands I’ve led. I’ve made it a point to build on strengths, not weakness. Understanding members strengths and weaknesses allows a leader to grab on to the greatness of the player and showcase it.

A leader who adopts an evolutionary approach prioritizes open dialogue, active listening, and collaborative decision-making. By encouraging input from all members and fostering a culture of mutual respect, the band can harness the collective creativity and synergy of its members. A leader still must make the tough decisions, but the transparent dialog continues to foster trust and respect of the final decisions.

As an evolutionary leader, it’s not expected you are the one who does the greatest work, rather about you being a cheerleader to get the greatest work from your bandmates. This translates to providing mentorship, constructive feedback, and opportunities for growth to each member. By nurturing their talents and fostering a sense of ownership and accountability, the leader empowers band members to unleash their full potential.

Last, every great band is driven by a compelling vision and a shared sense of purpose. An evolutionary leader inspires and motivates band members by articulating a clear vision, aligning individual goals with collective objectives, and leading by example. By instilling a sense of purpose and passion in their work, the leader galvanizes the band towards greatness.

Conclusion

You have a choice as a leader. You can be a Boss, make the rules, and drive members to comply or you can embrace an evolutionary approach to leadership, rooted in relationship-building, empowerment, and vision that cultivates a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. One may work in the short term but the other will continue to rock for decades. Rock on!

Pro Tip #44: Support other bands (a.k.a. Be like Val)

Pro Tip #44: Support other bands (a.k.a. Be like Val)

This short article was inspired by our own local legend Val Smith, from the band Midlife Crisis. If you are on the Facebook, inevitably you will see posts and shares from Val in regards to just about any live music event and band. What’s most impressive is that he even shares others band events that would technically compete with his band on the same nights. Val, like many in our area, represent what is good in our community. Steve Hutson, you are another one with your events listings (thank you).

So, without further ado and a little sarcasm. Welcome to Pro Tip #44

So, you’re in a band, huh? Living the dream, killing it in the wiregrass, and making all that money at your local watering hole. You are the best and can play three steps like nobody’s business. But hey, have you ever stopped to think about the other bands out there trying to make it? No? Well, you should, because if you’re not supporting your fellow musicians, you’re basically sucking at life. Let me tell you why.

It’s Called Solidarity

Duh! Imagine a world where every band was just out for themselves, only caring about their own gigs and their own success. Yeah, sounds pretty lame, right? Supporting each other creates a sense of unity in the music scene. So, if you’re not sharing your fellow band’s posts or showing up to their shows, you’re basically telling the world, “I’m too cool to care about anyone else.” Congrats, you suck.

Karma’s a Bitch

You know that feeling when you’re desperately trying to get people to come to your gig, but it feels like pulling teeth? Well, guess what? If you’ve been a selfish jerk and haven’t supported other bands, don’t expect them to come flocking to your shows. Karma’s got a funny way of biting you in butt.

Networking, Baby!

Here’s a little secret: the music industry is kinda all about who you know. By supporting other bands, you’re not just being a good person, you’re also expanding your network. Who knows, that band you helped out might just return the favor one day and introduce you to someone who could change your life. But hey, who needs connections when you’ve got your own ego to stroke, right?

The Power of Social Media

Ah, social media, the holy grail of self-promotion. Sharing posts and events from other bands not only helps them out but also shows your followers that you’re not a self-centered narcissist. Win-win, my friend.

Because, Seriously, Who Wants to Be Known as That Band?

You know the one I’m talking about. The band that everyone rolls their eyes at because they’re too busy patting themselves on the back to lend a hand to anyone else. Don’t be that band. It’s important to market yourself well but be the one that’s known for lifting others up and making the music scene a better place for everyone as well.

Last thoughts

On a less sarcastic note, folks like Val and Steve are great humans. They do this for the love of the community and expect nothing in return. As humans, I think it’s easy to do things like this and then ultimately start to feel resentment when others don’t do the same or even support with a like or comment. I encourage us all to start sharing, at a minimum, when your band is not playing a date. Being part of a community and showing support certainly pays dividends. I’ve seen this time and time again with bands that perform at Live at Harlow’s. It has nothing to do with me but there is an bond of sorts that comes from performing on that stage. I’m always extremely proud to see bands that have played at the venue share gigs, share experiences, and make lasting friendships. Our community has an opportunity to make our area a live music hotspot, but we’ve got to work together. All ships rise at high tide!

“Pro Tip #43: We’re in the entertainment business”

“Pro Tip #43: We’re in the entertainment business”

In the dynamic landscape of the music industry, live performances have evolved into a captivating visual experience. The era when exceptional sound alone guaranteed success is fleeting. Today, concerts are immersive spectacles, incorporating video walls, dazzling lights, and unwavering energy. The belief that great music alone ensures triumph is being challenged, even for the smallest local bands. As a venue owner and musician, my experiences as well as others I have talked to have led me to a crucial realization: a band’s sound might not be the most important or the ultimate key to success and growth.

It’s said, the music business sells records, but bands performing live are unequivocally in the entertainment business. Having witnessed technically proficient and great sounding bands struggle for engagement and less technical and worse sounding ones amass devoted followings, I can affirm that charisma and entertainment value often outweigh musical prowess.

This article is tailored for those stuck in a gigging rut or feeling like the fan base is not growing. Here are some strategies, ranging from free to mid-priced options, to enhance your entertainment value.

Free Strategies to Increase Entertainment Value:

All-Out Charisma:

Radiate infectious vibes by showing you’re having a blast on stage. A genuine smile can go a long way. The too cool for school went by the wayside. Simply showing you are having a great time will encourage others to do the same. It works.

Communicate with Authority:

Embrace your role as an entertainer; engage the audience with enthusiasm. Acknowledge the venue, city, and express appreciation. Do this with conviction and don’t forget to thank those watching and the staff who gave you an opportunity. Own the mic.

Move Like Jagger:

Harness the power of body language. Infuse energy into your performance; simple movements like jumping can resonate with the crowd. You would be surprised to see that the crowd will follow your movement. Think big concert, wave those hands in the air.

Dress for Success:

Consider your stage appearance. Dressing uniquely can leave a lasting impression. Make it known you’re in a band and the entertainment. Wearing the same clothes from your job site is likely not going to give off that special vibe.

Strategic Song Choices:

Craft a well-thought-out setlist to transform your concert into a cohesive narrative. Play what resonates with the audience to gain and retain fans. The songs you play are directly related to the entertainment experience of the listeners.

Lower-Cost Enhancements:

Banners/Branding:

Invest in impactful banners to convey a professional image. Include band name, website, or QR code for lasting recognition. This is my first and foremost thing I mention to bands. A $100-$300 investment can pay thousands in dividends and give the gift that keeps on giving when folks who see a video recording now know the band name in the video thanks to the banners.

Cheap RGB Lights:

Purchase budget-friendly RGB lights for a visually stimulating performance. 8 of them is just over $100. Even in auto or sound mode, it can provide an enhancement to the show.

Smoke Machine:

Enhance your light show and stage visuals with a smoke machine, but be mindful of its impact on the singer. $50 – $150

Cheap RGB Lights / Banners


Mid to High Priced Investments:

RGBW Lights:

Upgrade to brighter RGBW lights with presets for a visually enhanced show. Incorporate a DMX controller for greater control. $60 – 80 per light and up.

Moving Lights:

Consider moving lights with a DMX controller for dynamic effects. Exercise caution though using presets that just randomly flash and have no real visual design. It can be annoying. $100 and up per light (they go into thousands)

Hazer:

Upgrade the smoke to a hazer which produces a lingering haze that enhances the visual impact of lights, creating a dynamic atmosphere. ($200 and up)

Trussing:

Elevate your stage with lighting truss for a professional concert environment. ($200 and up)

Drum Riser:

Invest in a drum riser for a visually striking and acoustically beneficial stage setup. ($200 and up)

You can spend as much money as you want going down the bells and whistles rabbit hole, trust me. However, the bells and whistles should NEVER be a substitute for human interaction. The foundation of entertainment / entertaining is within the people on stage and their ability to connect to the audience.

It important to also note a connection doesn’t always mean high energy either, it’s whatever it takes to get that listener / viewer engaged and part of the show. Telling folks they are beautiful or telling them to grab a hold of each other has a impact which causes unity.

As we’ve written before, the performance / entertainment process is passing energy back and forth from the audience to the band. However, IT STARTS WITH THE BAND. It’s extremely important to remember the band has to start the fire to create the entertainment. Too many bands wait for the audience to give them energy first or use it as an excuse to say “I only get into it when others get into it”, which is a sign they are not truly being entertainers. As many previous articles state, people hear with their eyes. Just as people will judge whether a band is good or great on how they look, perform, and more importantly, entertain.  

Hopefully this article can give you some ideas. I have employed each of these as seen in the pictures and found they greatly enhance opportunities (financially, gigs, and frankly fun). Rock on!

Pro Tip #42: The Cost of Deception: Consequences of Lying to Fans as an Artist

Pro Tip #42: The Cost of Deception: Consequences of Lying to Fans as an Artist

Introduction:

In the dynamic world of the music industry, artists and bands often find themselves navigating a delicate balance between artistic expression, marketing, and maintaining a positive relationship with their fan base.

When I started this article, I wanted to title it “Don’t believe your own bullshit” but felt if that might be a little too harsh for some readers. After all, I write these articles in hope to encourage and direct young or inexperienced musicians on the right path.

If it was not already hard enough just playing music, you’ll quickly find the world of music today requires even more strategy than ever before. Failure to know boundaries can can quickly lead to someone crossing the line (until it’s too late).

As an example, marketing. In today’s world, it’s extremely challenging to stand out with all the “hype”. The days of “we are a 90’s cover band”, struggles to stand up against something like “The Ultimate 90’s Rock Experience” when found on google. It’s almost a necessity to over hype.

But.. are they “The Ultimate 90’s Rock Experience”? Maybe to some or maybe not to others but it’s not outside the possibility and is not unreasonable. Moreover, I think it’s safe to say that the statement will not create a storm of negative publicity and generally will gather better results with talent buyers over those who don’t create “hype”.

However, imagine if that same local band said something outlandish like “We’re going on tour with (insert big national touring artist)” or “Our last video of us playing cumbersome (filmed at a local bar on a cell phone) was on at the half time show for the super bowl”.

BS! LOL.

The truth is, the odds of that happening are up there with winning the lottery and honestly require more money than you could possibly imagine (nothing is free).

I don’t want to sound like a Grinch or bah humbug during our Christmas season but… let’s manage our expectations and be real for a moment knowing all other outlets for the band such as followers, video views, and likes don’t represent that level of success.

For the believers of those outlandish remarks, some would congratulate (it’s on the internet, it must be true). However, that generally puts a couple things in motion which become detrimental.

– The ones who congratulated them unknowingly become enablers, encouraging more outlandish statements than the last to maintain “hype”

– Eventually, those who supported the band slowly start to feel deceived and become resentful when those events don’t happen for some other outlandish reason as an excuse.

For me, if I know them and see this activity, I first feel worried for the band and then start to feel like I’m doing a disservice for not speaking to them. The impacts of these activities are not just on fans, the music community, but the members of the band both personally and professionally. When honesty is compromised and lies permeate the artist-fan dynamic, the consequences can be severe. Saying nothing in my opinion is irresponsible. Especially if you know the impacts.

Bottom line: Don’t believe your own bullshit.

Here are 5 reasons to not “oversell”, “overhype”, “stretch the truth”, or other term to somehow dilute the word lie.

1. Erosion of Trust:

Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and the artist-fan connection is no exception. When artists deceive their fans, whether it’s about personal matters, artistic intentions, or promotional strategies, trust erodes. Fans invest not only in the music but also in the persona and authenticity of the artist. Once that trust is shattered, rebuilding becomes an uphill battle.

2. Loss of Authenticity:

Authenticity is a precious commodity in the music industry. Fans are drawn to artists who present genuine emotions, experiences, and stories through their work. Lying undermines this authenticity, turning an artist into a mere facade rather than a sincere storyteller. The result is a loss of connection with fans who seek a genuine and relatable artist to support.

3. Negative Public Perception:

In the age of social media, news travels fast. When an artist is caught in a lie, the repercussions extend beyond just disappointed fans. Negative publicity can tarnish an artist’s reputation, making it harder to secure collaborations, partnerships, or even future performance opportunities. The music industry is a close-knit community, and word-of-mouth can significantly impact an artist’s career trajectory.

4. Decline in Fan Base:

Fans are discerning and can quickly distance themselves from artists who engage in deceptive practices. Social media platforms empower fans to voice their opinions and share their disappointment, potentially leading to a decline in an artist’s fan base. This decrease not only affects immediate album or merchandise sales but also has long-term implications for an artist’s overall career sustainability.

5. Impact on Revenue Streams:

Beyond the emotional and reputational costs, lying can hit an artist where it hurts the most—their income. A loyal fan base is crucial for sustaining revenue streams such as concert ticket sales, merchandise purchases, and streaming numbers. When fans feel betrayed, they are less likely to invest in these revenue-generating avenues, resulting in financial setbacks for the artist.

Conclusion:

For artists and bands, maintaining honesty and transparency with their fans is not just a matter of moral responsibility but a strategic necessity. The consequences of lying extend far beyond the immediate fallout, affecting an artist’s trustworthiness, authenticity, public perception, fan base, and revenue streams. In an industry where success relies heavily on the support of a dedicated audience, preserving integrity should be a top priority for any artist seeking long-term prosperity. If you recall previous articles, you’ll likely see a theme on integrity. Integrity has been found to be a common character trait across successful people.

For the majority, this article should not apply (thankfully), but if you find this article just hit you in the face, it’s time for a change. Please do yourself a service and be truthful to reestablish your integrity and character for a successful run in this world we call the Music business. The majority of us want you to succeed. Cheers.

Pro Tip #41: The Importance of Trademarking Your Band Name: Safeguarding Identity and Success

Pro Tip #41: The Importance of Trademarking Your Band Name: Safeguarding Identity and Success

In the dynamic world of the music business, a band’s name serves as a powerful identifier that encapsulates its identity, brand, and artistic vision. As a band invests time, effort, and passion into creating its unique sound, it becomes vital to protect the name associated with that sound. Trademarks serve as an official identifier for you to execute commerce under the name, and yes, help you remove others who infringe on your name.

Important note: I’m not an attorney and the information below is based on my own experience doing trademarks without an attorney (the process does not require you have an attorney but if you are not into doing research and legal stuff, probably best to get one).

So what will a trademark help me do?

  • Preserving Your Identity:
    Your band’s name is more than just a combination of words; it represents your artistic identity and the impression you leave on your audience. Trademarking your band name helps preserve its uniqueness and prevents others from capitalizing on your success or confusing fans with a similar name. It ensures that your band maintains exclusive rights to its identity, reinforcing your market presence and long-term success.

  • Establishing Brand Recognition:
    Trademarks create a powerful brand presence by associating specific qualities and values with your band’s name. Registering a trademark enhances brand recognition among fans, industry professionals, and potential collaborators. By protecting your name, you make it easier for audiences to find you, leading to increased visibility, opportunities, and potential revenue streams.

  • Expanding Commercial Potential:
    Trademarking your band name offers numerous commercial advantages. It enables you to license your name for merchandise, such as t-shirts, posters, and other memorabilia, providing additional revenue streams beyond music sales and performances. Moreover, securing a trademark strengthens your negotiating position with sponsors, record labels, and promoters, demonstrating your commitment to protecting your brand and making you a more attractive partner.

  • Legal Protection:
    Trademark registration empowers you with legal recourse against any unauthorized use or infringement of your band’s name. It provides you with a legal shield to prevent others from using similar names that might confuse or dilute your brand, ultimately safeguarding your artistic reputation and preventing any potential damage to your career. Additionally, trademark protection extends beyond national borders, ensuring global coverage and protection.

Ok, how do I process a trademark for my band name?

Step 1 is research:

Before embarking on the trademark registration process, conduct thorough research to ensure that your band name is available and doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks. This involves checking online databases, music industry directories, and engaging legal assistance if necessary. I’d suggest first searching TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System) at https://tess2.uspto.gov/ . See if anyone already has your name registered or in the process of registering. In your search you may see fully registered marks, abandoned marks, cancelled marks, as well as marks in process.

Step 2 is to determine eligibility:

Review the requirements for trademark eligibility in your jurisdiction. Typically, trademarks should be distinctive and not descriptive, generic, or already in use. Your band name should meet these criteria to proceed with the registration process.

Step 3 is to file an application:

Submit a trademark application to the appropriate governmental body responsible for trademarks in the country you perform. In the case of the U.S., the would be through the United States Patent and Trademark Office online at https://www.uspto.gov/ . Read through the process and the use of the TEAS Plus process makes it very easy. Most of the bands will fall under the IC 041. US 100 101 107. G & S, which is Entertainment, namely, live performances by musical bands

Step 4 is the examination and publication:

Upon receiving your application, the trademark office will examine it for compliance with legal requirements and perform a search to identify any potential conflicts. If no issues arise, your application will be published for opposition, allowing third parties to raise objections within a specified period. This is a LONG waiting process…. Almost a year. Be patient as you will not receive any correspondence until they are ready to process your application or review it.

Step 5 is the registration and maintenance:

If no oppositions or objections are raised, your trademark will be registered, and you will receive a certificate of registration. It’s crucial to understand the maintenance requirements, including periodic renewals, to ensure continued protection of your band name.

After all of that, you will have the freedom to use your band name under commerce and allow your band the right to sole use of the mark regarding your musical performance and more. Boom!

Pro Tip #40 – Why Playing Locally Too Often Is Bad For Your Band

Pro Tip #40 – Why Playing Locally Too Often Is Bad For Your Band

By Ken Kirkland

OVERPLAY ? at Pinky’s Pub….

Again…..

Why Playing Locally Too Often Is Bad For Your Band.

Two main traits of bands able to sell out gigs (talent aside) is their tendency not to excessively gig in the same area and their commitment to giving each show a purpose.

Every time someone sees that you’re playing this weekend they weigh the pros and cons of coming to your show. It is all too easy to become the band that someone disregards because you’ll probably be playing again soon or they just saw you 2 weeks ago at a venue down the road and they doubt seeing you again will be worth the time, money, energy, and backache if they’re over 30!

Taking every opportunity to play in your hometown or in the same area can be tempting. So tempting, it can lead some artists to become oblivious to the fact there is only a certain number of people in any given scene. And yes, that goes for big cities too.

There is irony in the fact that most local venues are hesitant booking out of town acts because they won’t realistically bring their fans to fill the venue. Even if you do have a huge local fanbase, don’t assume that they have got so little going on in their lives that they will constantly be there to support you.

If you’re still under the impression that the more gigs, regardless of the location, the better, consider how excited you would be if you knew that you could go down the road and see your favorite band EVER play every week.

Unless there is something wrong with you (which means that you keep getting excited about having the same experience over and over again) the excitement would quickly wear off of your favorite band/artist being available and demanding your attention. Even the greatest pleasures have the potential to become monotonous. “Things” are only as good as the measure of them.

If you play gigs less frequently in your hometown, you will get MORE of a draw because you will create a sense of exclusivity. Music consumers thrive on scarcity. Demand being greater than the supply is a consumer’s kryptonite.

If you do become a band known for selling out venues – regardless of the size – in your hometown, people will be more likely to come to the show to avoid the fear of missing out! You will become infinitely more attractive to venues outside of your local area and festival bookers when you can show them a crowd eager to inch its way to the front of your shows. You’re not fooling anyone by posting gig photos taken a long way from the stage that don’t show a single audience member.

How Often Should You Play Local and How Should You Play It?

There is no short answer. The general rule of thumb for playing in your local circuit tends to be four times a year, or at least playing gigs 6 – 12 weeks apart in the same area, the number also depends on another factor; the quality of your shows.

Every show should be an event. If you don’t have new music to promote at your shows, get creative in coming up with why fans should see you for the first time AND the next times. Go acoustic. Come up with a concept, beyond just giving your run of shows a clever name. And never underestimate the impact of creating something that seems unmissable to fans old and new.

Hopefully, I have pulled you out of the “but, but, but EXPOSURE!!!” trap by this point. Because even if it does seem like common sense that “more shows = more fans” the effect is almost always the reverse. Any good band leader would tell you not to overplay your local area, but with all the 100% independent artists doing everything themselves, there is no-one to give them this sound advice.

If you are playing gigs needlessly and aimlessly, that time/energy could be far better spent on networking, self-promotion, writing and recording new material and actually coming up with a long-term plan. There may be no glory like blowing the roof off a venue and hearing the demand of an encore, but for that to be sustainable your plan has to be solid.

For some all of the above will be a bitter pill to swallow and I have undoubtedly burst some bubbles by speaking harsh truths over blowing smoke up your ass. Check it out though, don’t get hooked in the big fish in a small pond mentality.