tag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:/blogs/welcome-to-the-glitter-shoes?p=2Welcome To The Glitter Shoes2018-07-02T11:04:47-04:00RSP Entertainment Marketingfalsetag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51396152018-03-21T10:43:09-04:002018-03-21T10:46:27-04:00Day Drinking with Rachael Ray, Last Minute Voodoo and The Roots Jam That Never Was on Day 6 of SXSW<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/679f64128c028bffabc1dbec1647034f5e64ff97/medium/img-20180317-133908-872.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I thought it was supposed to be a DRY heat down here in Texas? I’m swimming my way through the final weekend of SXSW with bad hair and a glistening brow (because ladies don’t sweat, you know!). Saturday was an early wake up and the weather wasn’t the only reason I was moving slow, if you get my drift. Six days of late nights with constant walking or standing was starting to take its toll. I said it before but it bears repeating – SXSW isn’t for wimps! </p>
<p>Saturday was also a holiday – St. Patrick’s Day! Not that anyone really needs an excuse to have some adult beverages at SXSW, but St. Patty’s really ups the day drinking game. The festival winds down with two big parties, <a contents="Rachael Ray’s Feedback" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.rachaelray.com/feedback/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray’s Feedback</a> BBQ during the day and The Roots + Friends Jam at night. Both have a reputation for being amazing, but this year only one delivered. I’ll give you a clue, there was food and it actually happened. (More on that in a bit) </p>
<p>Rachael hosted her annual shindig at Stubb’s BBQ and got everyone in the spirit with bagpipers as the gates opened. Scottish, not Irish, but bonus points for originality and it is geographically close. The pipers were dressed in green, so I’ll give them that. Feedback is one for the “must attend” list if at all possible. It’s open to the public (21+) as long as you RSVP. The line to get in starts to form early because the food and entertainment are always excellent. Neither disappointed. </p>
<p>The <a contents="menu" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.rachaelray.com/2018/03/13/get-hungry-feedback-2018s-food-lineup-is-here/" target="_blank">menu</a> was mostly for the dogs, errrr, made up of dogs. Pimento Cheese Dogs and Mini Veggie Corn Dogs. Yes – even I tried the veggie corn dog and they were DEEE-LISH! I may have had two. Or three. They were mini!! There were also Three Meat Sloppy Joes (you know, to make up for the veggie-ness earlier) and someone was wise enough to provide already crushed up Fritos for the top. Yes, please!!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/8d2895aaf66fe73d09a10bb81b4a411f793ebc9a/medium/rr-food-lineup.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>A tray of DELISH at #RRFeedback</strong></p>
<p>This year’s music lineup featured Girl Talk, Kurt Vile, <a contents="Dr. Pepper’s Jaded Hearts Club Band" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/events/sxsw/8249699/salt-n-pepa-dr-peppers-jaded-hearts-club-band-sxsw-rachael-ray" target="_blank">Dr. Pepper’s Jaded Hearts Club Band</a> and the original spice girls, Salt-n-Pepa on the main stage. There were at least a dozen other acts alternating on two more stages (one outside and one inside) so the music was plentiful. Dr. Pepper’s Jaded Hearts Club Band is a Beatles tribute band led by Matt Bellamy of Muse and their rendition of “Helter Skelter” was the perfect close to the six-hour party. But it was <a contents="Salt-n-Pepa" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.saltnpepa.com/" target="_blank">Salt-n-Pepa</a> with their old school favorites and high energy performance that had the crowd rocking. In addition to their hits “Push It,” “Let’s Talk About Sex” and “What A Man,” the latter featuring Ray and her husband John Cusimano joining the ladies on stage, DJ Spinderella threw in samples from “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Jump Around” that had the sweltering crowd on the field jumping and waving their hands in the air.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/3d039a19a17504fda79a22366856d21dbe7426ec/medium/mvimg-20180317-144157.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Salt-n-Pepa bring it old school</strong></p>
<p>All that jumping around had me hungry again (shocking, I know) it was FINALLY time to hit <a contents="Voodoo Doughnuts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.voodoodoughnut.com/locations/voodoo-doughnut-austin/" target="_blank">Voodoo Doughnuts</a> on the way back to the hotel. I figured the line would be shorter than usual, because nobody wants deep fried dough sitting in their belly on a sweltering hot day. Except me. And apparently a lot of other people, because the line was still out the door. We moved along fairly quickly and before I knew it I was gazing upon spinning display racks of deliciousness. <em>(Insert heavenly music here!!)</em> The transaction was quickly completed and I hustled out the door cradling my pink box of treasures. Totally worth the wait. Voodoo Doughnuts is another Austin staple that should probably go on the “must visit” list, but bring cash. They don’t take plastic.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/b2e2b9f41f92f64932fc3442092eb216b7cecab7/medium/photogrid-1521581590216.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><b>Doing that Voodoo that they do</b></p>
<p>After stuffing my face full of a Captain Crunch doughnut and cooling off a bit, it was time to leave for <a contents="the Roots" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/credits/band/the-roots" target="_blank">the Roots</a> + Friends Jam across the highway at Fair Market. The Roots show closes out SXSW every year with a bang – surprise special guests and all kinds of great swag. DMC (of <a contents="Run DMC" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rundmc.com/dmc/" target="_blank">Run DMC</a>) and Ludacris were both on the advance (secret) list so the show was already living up to the hype. Plus, Bud Light was the sponsor and they spend some bucks on throwing a decent party.</p>
<p>We’d just been there for the Budweiser Country Club event on Thursday and these folks totally had their shit together so it would be easy peasy, right? WRONG! There was a line down the block by 7:45pm but that was fine because the agency had put us on the guest list. We walked up to the VIP side entrance we had used Thursday only to discover it was mass chaos as well. There were supposedly three lines for VIP and Media check-in, but nobody was bothering to keep the lines organized or allowing anyone into the venue. More and more people arrived and claimed to be VIP in an attempt to cram into the small space on the side of the building. Repeated calls to the Bud Light agency went unanswered. Hmmmm…. This seemed messed up even by SXSW standards and it just kept getting worse. </p>
<p>Doors still hadn’t opened 30 minutes past the scheduled start time and there were rumors that the show was being canceled. We could hear bands sound checking inside the building, so no way that was the case. Someone must have been late and everything was pushed back. That made more sense. NOPE! It was in fact canceled, which the crowd learned after <a contents="Questlove" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Questlove" target="_blank">Questlove</a> Tweeted that he was sorry but a “severe emergency” required them to cancel the show. Someone from the venue came out shortly afterwards and announced it to the mass of people still milling around.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/45191b9f75672b87bbc070a761ee47d04f89433b/medium/screenshot-20180317-213444-2.png" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Questlove tweeted the news before the official announcement</strong></p>
<p>Wait, what? Turns out, it was a <a contents="bomb threat" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://twitter.com/austintexasgov/status/975264000366825472" target="_blank">bomb threat</a> that was received at 4:23pm, the police checked everything out, found no threat and said to go ahead. Bud Light decided to wait until everyone had shown up (some waiting for hours), missing the entire closing night of SXSW (I skipped <a contents="Bill Murray and Jeff Goldblum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.austin360.com/entertainment/bill-murray-jeff-goldblum-and-wes-anderson-walk-into-theater-everyone-loses-their-minds/QGTcykuGMW5VUdtjwDW5SP/" target="_blank">Bill Murray and Jeff Goldblum</a> for THIS?!?) and then cancel the show. Not cool Bud Light. Also not cool to lie to the press about it not being a bomb threat – they called it a “security concern” when asked by journalists on scene, later tweeting the same <a contents="canned response." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://twitter.com/budlight/status/975200803152711680" target="_blank">canned response.</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/7135b1a1d8a1c7ba125cf3bbd8b1dbb3dc77c2a7/medium/photogrid-1521581337843.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>The show that never happened</strong></p>
<p>The crowd dispersed with a lot of questions but not a lot of noise. I was making a lot of noise later that night when Michigan won against Houston with a 3-point <a contents="buzzer beater" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1n4rqMnxaig" target="_blank">buzzer beater</a>, though. Guess the night wasn’t a complete waste since I got to see some more March Madness. It also gave me time to pack at a decent hour, because the airport ride was coming early and bringing gingerbread pancakes the size of my head from <a contents="Magnolia Café" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.magnoliacafeaustin.com/" target="_blank">Magnolia Café</a>. So with a suitcase full of free pens, gifts for some deserving friends, assorted merch and a stomach full of pancakes, it was time to say goodbye to SXSW. Not a bad way to send a girl off, Austin.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/30d15f8ec3b347605ce881429ae456c5bc1be27a/medium/mvimg-20180317-131910.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51363752018-03-19T17:22:19-04:002018-04-17T05:32:00-04:00Keith Urban, BBQ and Late Nights With Some Texas Gentlemen on Day 5 of SXSW<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/8bb5b1be673dfea53681410f8a5235d00c829119/medium/piano-mural.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>OK, I decided to give this SXSW brunch thing another try. Boy, am I glad I did!! <a contents="BMI" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bmi.com/about" target="_blank">BMI</a> pulled out all the stops for their acoustic brunch. After being greeted with hugs and free drink tickets at check-in, I ambled once more onto the back lawn of the Four Seasons which was already starting to fill up with a crowd. I heard numerous times that everyone knows THIS is the party to come to and they were right. Fancy linens, plenty of waitstaff, tons of DELICIOUS food and lots of pleasant people to chat with while BMI artists like <a contents="Paul Thorn" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.paulthorn.com/" target="_blank">Paul Thorn</a>, Jade Bird and Young & Sick performed on stage. BTW, I finally got my Bloody Mary and it was a good one. Also, I get the feeling breakfast tacos are a thing here, am I right?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/d577df51f149a6e94a784a4a40ffb843a3a6cd90/medium/brunch-photo.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>A proper brunch courtesy of BMI</strong></p>
<p>As much as I wanted to stay and enjoy more music and perhaps seconds of the tasty libations, it was time to hustle over to the Convention Center where <a contents="Keith Urban" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.keithurban.net/" target="_blank">Keith Urban</a> was doing a keynote speech. Keith is one of my favorites, going way back to the late 90’s when people didn’t know who he was. The man is a consummate entertainer and wicked, wicked good guitarist. The session was being hosted by Scott Goldman, President of the <a contents="GRAMMY Museum" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.grammymuseum.org/" target="_blank">GRAMMY Museum</a>, who is another favorite. The two of them together was a “can’t miss” opportunity. (Sidebar – Scott has a fantastic sense of style and always wears the greatest shoes. He didn’t disappoint.) </p>
<p>Scott is a storyteller at heart and always knows how to ask questions that bring the best out of whomever he is interviewing. He turned the “session” with Keith into an intimate conversation about Keith’s career, how he got started, the songwriting process and how he likes to collaborate. And it was all revealed in a series of anecdotes told by Keith which made the whole thing seem like two dudes sitting around chatting. On a brightly-lit stage, with a bunch of photographers and capacity audience in front of them. But other than that, it was really homey.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/3435d4e083202e9ae776ca3c6fb2f827810a3da3/medium/keith-urban-session.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Keith Urban talks with Scott Goldman</strong></p>
<p>Afterwards there was another panel the historian in me couldn’t resist attending. The aforementioned Scott Goldman was talking with Michael Lehman about the life and legacy of <a contents="Gregg Allman" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregg_Allman" target="_blank">Gregg Allman</a>. Michael was Gregg’s manager for years before his death in 2017, but more than that they were friends. The discussion revolved around the making of Gregg’s last record, “Southern Blood” at the legendary <a contents="FAME Studios&nbsp;in Muscle Shoals" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.fame2.com/" target="_blank">FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals</a>, Alabama and included some unreleased video clips and songs from the “vault.” It was moving to hear Michael tell stories about Gregg and feel how important it is to him that Gregg’s legacy is kept alive in a dignified manner. </p>
<p>We decided it was time for more food, and when in Texas it should be BBQ of some sort. I got the Fred Flintstone size. At least I think that is what it was called based on the appearance. I was also able to finally check out the rooftop of the <a contents="Courtyard by Marriott" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/auscd-courtyard-austin-downtown-convention-center/" target="_blank">Courtyard by Marriott</a>, which they have set up as an event space for SXSW. It’s awesome up there. Two bars, lots of colorful Adirondack chairs, a view of the masses below on the streets and some really nice murals of historic Austin venues.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/7395c240c44d068d783629d52713e58948587651/medium/roof-pic.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Fun party space on the Courtyard by Marriott roof</strong></p>
<p>Speaking of historic Austin venues, it was time to walk over Cooper’s BBQ for the <a contents="Blue Elan Records" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://blueelan.com/" target="_blank">Blue Elan Records</a> showcase, including the Delta Lady herself, <a contents="Rita Coolidge" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://ritacoolidge.net/" target="_blank">Rita Coolidge</a>. If you are not familiar, Ms. Coolidge was a fixture in the 70’s and early 80’s music scene, her vocals and writing in high demand from some very well-known artists – Joe Cocker, Graham Nash, Leon Russell and Eric Clapton. She also won two GRAMMY awards with then-husband Kris Kristofferson. So she’s certainly got the cred. </p>
<p><a contents="Cooper’s" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.coopersbbq.com/" target="_blank">Cooper’s</a> is a fun place to see a show because the upstairs performance space is open (but with seats, unlike a lot of SXSW venues) and if you get hungry, you can order some of their famous BBQ from the pit downstairs. Now, let me tell you about Ms. Rita Coolidge, who arrived to her own show via pedicab looking freaking fabulous in some amazing pink cowboy boots, matching tooled leather belt over a long skirt and a flowy crocheted white top. Just take a minute. I’ll wait. Superstar looks, none of the superstar attitude. Ms. Coolidge was as nice as could be to any fans who came up to her for photos or autographs and equally as sweet when she complimented MY firm handshake.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/893b8b8d86599d6be0470005993f2c7dfdeec8ac/medium/rita-coolidge.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Rita Coolidge at Cooper's BBQ</strong></p>
<p>She took the stage with her full band and holy shit! It was easy to see why Rita was in such high demand and her voice doesn’t seem to have lost a thing. She hit all the notes on her old hits like, “We’re All Alone” and “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher,” along with songs from her soon-to-be-released record. Rita told stories of recording “Walking On Water” with <a contents="Keb' Mo'" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kebmo.com/" target="_blank">Keb' Mo'</a> and took great delight in having worked with him. What a performance and I was lucky to have to opportunity to be in on it. Just another SXSW moment that happens when you least expect it. </p>
<p>Hey, have you heard? Keith Urban was in town on Friday. He headlined concert at Stubb’s sponsored by <a contents="Bumble" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://bumble.com/" target="_blank">Bumble</a>. Based on the number of attractive young people (and those hoping to meet said young people) roaming the dirt grounds of the outdoor stage, a lot of folks aren’t aware that the dating app has expanded into matching businesses and other networking services. After an ear-splittingly loud set by Larkin Poe, Keith started right on time at 11:10pm (early by SXSW standards, right?) with full lights and sound. It was a typical Keith Urban show – fun, entertaining, lots of kick ass guitar playing and crowd interaction. He even came out into the crowd at one point and played to the back of the audience before giving a guitar away to one lucky fan.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/cb92a1321ff8c229037de1d707f0762757acad7b/medium/mvimg-20180317-000042.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Keith Urban on the <a contents="Stubb's BBQ" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.stubbsaustin.com/" target="_blank">Stubb's BBQ</a> stage</strong></p>
<p>It’s obvious Keith loves his fans and was happy to be back at SXSW. He switched up his set list to include a cover of the Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” after saying it “smelled like” the right song to play. *Ahem* Ever the professional, Keith finished on time (12:20am), which left <strong><em>PLENTY </em></strong>of time to make one last show for the night, er…. Morning. </p>
<p>The <a contents="New West Records" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.newwestrecords.com/" target="_blank">New West Records</a> showcase was closing out with the Texas Gentlemen and from all the scuttlebutt on the street, they were the band to see. Made up of a loose group of six session musicians who came together to form a supergroup, the <a contents="Texas Gentlemen" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.thetexasgentlemen.com/" target="_blank">Texas Gentlemen</a> were reminiscent of the Allman Brothers Band. Very jammy and super talented, these guys stretched out and let loose at Antone’s. They were impressive and the crowd obviously appreciated their musical chops, but when I say they “stretched out,” they really stretched out. And at 2am, after being up enjoying nearly 20 hours of SXSW fun, I was ready to stretch out on my bed. Which I would have done, but my Chucks were sticking to the floor at Antone’s. Welcome to SXSW.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/1a57aa9aa2e02fccdcb7cfe722ffd94939e49d23/original/img-20180317-014738.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><strong>The Texas Gentlemen at <a contents="Antone's" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.antonesnightclub.com/" target="_blank">Antone's</a></strong></p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51362952018-03-19T16:24:36-04:002018-03-19T17:24:52-04:00No Bloody Mary For You! Day 4 of F*Bombs & More at SXSW<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/3e70780c983497dedc45e9b12d0d880933f59fc1/medium/fair-market.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We’ll jump right to the end of Thursday night because that was by far the best party and music I’ve experienced to date at SXSW. The <a contents="Budweiser" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.budweiser.com/" target="_blank">Budweiser</a> Country Club was well worth crossing the bridge and staying up late to attend. It was VIP treatment all the way, special entrance, super helpful staff and a special raised area for viewing. With spot on production, the official Sony Nashville showcase at Fair Market included sets by Levon, Elle King, Kane Brown and The Sisterhood Band before headliner <a contents="Old Crow Medicine Show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.crowmedicine.com/news" target="_blank">Old Crow Medicine Show</a> came on and lit the place on fire with their rocking, Americana-I don’t-know-what-to-call-it-but-it’s-awesome brand of music.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/4bcffe288b715128a38a81ac80e4ecd114a6e90d/medium/old-crow-stage.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></strong><strong>Old Crow Medicine Show tearing up the stage</strong></p>
<p><a contents="The Sisterhood Band" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thesisterhoodband.com/" target="_blank">The Sisterhood Band</a> was a surprising treat – made up of Alyssa Bonagura and Ruby Stewart (Rod Stewart’s daughter) – these ladies brought the house down. Their vocals were killer and Alyssa can shred some guitar. And on a side note, they are completely adorable and so sweet. I spoke with them after their set and the duo couldn’t have been more gracious. Budweiser certainly knows how to put together a shindig – <a contents="Deejay Silver" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.deejaysilver.com/" target="_blank">Deejay Silver</a> mixed old school 80’s with country and threw in a bunch of current beats to keep the dance floor packed between sets. I’m not a beer drinker and I had a blast. </p>
<p>The event was a marked difference from how the day started at the ACL Bloody Mary Brunch. Now, I am all about brunch and the breakfast drinks so this was hot on my list of places to be when I got invited to cover it. Plus, <a contents="Austin City Limits" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://austincitylimits.com/" target="_blank">Austin City Limits</a> is known to have amazing live music. <a contents="Shakey Graves" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.shakeygraves.com/" target="_blank">Shakey Graves</a> and my friends The Accidentals were on the bill, so I got up early and hauled my booty across town to the beautiful GSD&M backyard only to be met by a mass of people. ‘Scuze me? Pardon… where is the VIP entrance? Media? I was invited to brunch…… Hellooooo…. I’m not a morning person. </p>
<p>Yeah…. There was no industry entrance or helpful staff this time. No matter which (generally indifferent) <a contents="ACL" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://acl-live.com/" target="_blank">ACL</a> volunteer I asked, they all basically told me to get in line for my breakfast taco or the other even longer line for a Bloody Mary. The booze line made a Saturday at Six Flags look like a walk in the park, there were people winding in loops around the entire property and out into the street just to get a beverage. Even calls to the media coordinator who had sent out the invitation were met with disdain. I was not getting into the side area by the stage so I should just sit on the lawn and enjoy the show. Sure, I know it will be some great music. (It was.) But I would <strong><em>ENJOY </em></strong>it more if I had a Bloody Mary in my hand and could actually <em><strong>SEE </strong></em>the show I was supposed to be covering. Poor form, ACL Bloody Mary Brunch. Poor form. I did finally end up with a very tasty breakfast taco from <a contents="Tacodeli" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.tacodeli.com/commitment-to-quality-local-ingredients/" target="_blank">Tacodeli</a>. Those people were very nice. </p>
<p>Someone who is also very nice and I’ve known for several years made my day considerably better once I got back to the Convention Center for my first session. <a contents="Martin Atkins" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://martinatkins.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Martin Atkins</a> called his seminar, “Who Moved My Cocaine” and that should give you a pretty good idea of his sense of humor. The session was NOT about drugs but included things Martin has learned from being in the music industry for over 50 years as a drummer with Nine Inch Nails, <a contents="Public Image Limited" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.pilofficial.com/info.html" target="_blank">Public Image Limited</a>, college instructor, and as the author of three books on the music industry. My favorite of these is titled, “<a contents="Welcome To The Music Business.&nbsp; You’re F**ked." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://martinatkins.bigcartel.com/product/welcome-to-the-music-business-you-re-fucked-book" target="_blank">Welcome To The Music Business. You’re F**ked.</a>” His accent and dry British delivery (complete with f-bombs) make anything he does fun and interesting. The hour flew by and it didn’t feel like “class” at all. He also throws packs of mini-muffins at the crowd, which came in handy since I was still pretty hungry. SXSW tip: get your food where and when you can.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/6c982b23bb15a06c7b29d9c985dcb962beb37fb5/medium/martin.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Martin Atkins tells it like it is</strong></p>
<p>I left Martin’s session with tears still in my eyes from laughing so hard and headed upstairs because another buddy was doing his talk and I was supposed to pop into the green room beforehand just to say hello. I was delighted when I ran into the lovely Delaney Gibson of Austin’s own <a contents="SIGNY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wearesigny.com/" target="_blank">SIGNY</a> on the escalator right in front of me. She was on her way to prep for her discussion, appropriately called, “Don’t Look Like Shit: Create Your Visual Aesthetic.” It’s appropriate because Delaney is stunning and always beautifully and creatively dressed. Her work as a photographer, creative consultant and visual designer made her perfect to teach musicians what they should be focusing on when presenting their image. </p>
<p>Anyway, on to the whirlwind that is <a contents="Kenny Aronoff" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://kennyaronoff.com/" target="_blank">Kenny Aronoff</a>. Kenny is a world-class drummer and another one of those people who you have absolutely heard his work, you probably just didn’t know it at the time. That instantly recognizable beat from “<a contents="Jack and Diane" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h04CH9YZcpI" target="_blank">Jack and Diane</a>” is Kenny. Pretty much any hit John Mellencamp song you know – that’s Kenny playing the drums. He’s also worked with everyone under the sun; Jon Bon Jovi, Sammy Haggar, John Fogerty, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, and Johnny Cash. Just to name a few. Kenny’s session was all about how being a team player and working hard is the key to his success and now he’s sharing it with others. He usually delivers a portion of the talk from behind a drum kit, but the SXSW people wouldn’t let him bring his “because he is too loud.”</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/e1ea799b6eff4f740993fe3136602ab2ea0fbe00/medium/kenny.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Kenny Aronoff during his presentation</strong></p>
<p>The bundle of energy had to do his presentation while air drumming along to video clips of him actually playing. It was so fun to see the audience react to such a well-respected musician without his instrument. I had the chance to spend some time with Kenny afterwards and the crowds just kept following him around. He is truly passionate about his work and it was yet another example of how SXSW gives up and coming musicians a chance to learn directly from some of the best. </p>
<p>After a quick stop back at the Courtyard by Marriott to change into some fancier duds, I headed over to the <a contents="Four Seasons" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.fourseasons.com/austin/" target="_blank">Four Seasons</a> to the GRAMMY party. This one was another classy, invite-only soiree, complete with secure check-in to gain access to the beautiful grounds overlooking the river. <a contents="The Recording Academy" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.grammy.com/" target="_blank">The Recording Academy</a> did it up right, tasty food and linen-covered tables with plenty of live entertainment to keep their attendees happy. There was even a special appearance by Taylor Hanson, who had performed with his brothers (you know, Mmmm Bop <a contents="Hanson" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://hanson.net/home" target="_blank">Hanson</a>) at an intimate <a contents="John Lennon Education Bus" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.lennonbus.org/" target="_blank">John Lennon Education Bus</a> fundraising concert earlier in the day. It was certainly a “see and be seen” event with a lot of people dressed to the nines, and creative types do know how to do it up! Mmmmm hmmmm!!!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/240de21edbb0aee72547b670c5be02c65740c112/original/grammy.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><strong>A giant GRAMMY at the Four Seasons </strong></p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51362632018-03-19T15:59:25-04:002018-07-02T11:04:11-04:00Music! Food! Drinks! Shopping! Day 3 at SXSW<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/843ea56d6393d5bc51d1762224e5a326aaa3130d/medium/austin-window.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Wednesday was another bright and shiny day in Austin. Good thing, because SXSW isn’t all eating and drinking (although that is a good chunk of it) and work still has to get done. This is a music conference and a lot of people come here to learn and network. </p>
<p>I’m still waiting on <a contents="Voodoo Doughnuts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.voodoodoughnut.com/locations/voodoo-doughnut-austin/" target="_blank">Voodoo Doughnuts</a> to get in touch about my corner table, so in the meantime I dropped in on some sessions at the Austin Convention Center. “We All Scream For Ice Cream” might sound like it’s about food, but it was really an informative session by the founder of the <a contents="Museum of Ice Cream" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.museumoficecream.com/" target="_blank">Museum of Ice Cream</a> about how to continue our natural tendency to be curious as children and continue asking questions as adults that can lead to creativity in business. Very informative, but no ice cream. Good marketing would have been to bring samples for everyone. I mean, it’s in the name!! </p>
<p>One of the coolest people on the planet and all around nice guy <a contents="Nile Rodgers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.nilerodgers.com/" target="_blank">Nile Rodgers</a> did a Q&A with the BBC’s Jo Whiley. They called it “Music Biz 101” and Professor Rodgers delivered to four salons full of people anxious to learn the secret to his success. The man has produced hit records for everyone from Diana Ross to Daft Punk and you have probably heard his work even if you didn’t know it at the time. Duran Duran, David Bowie, Carly Simon, Madonna and Sam Smith have all collaborated with Rodgers on some of their biggest hits – and he has stories about all of them. It was a real treat to see someone still so passionate to share his knowledge and love of music with the next generation.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/12027b4a49f87057f23ad5511f4aeef2a632a638/medium/nina-rodgers.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Nile Rodgers shares music biz stories</strong></p>
<p>Since it was so nice out and it is probably snowing in Michigan, I decided to take advantage of the weather and hoof it over to Rainey Street for the <a contents="Culture Collide Global Street Farm" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://culturecollide.com/event/sxsw-pma-global-street-farm-lestelle/" target="_blank">Culture Collide Global Street Farm</a>. The agency partnered with the Produce Marketing Association and put together a GORGEOUS event. The patio area of <a contents="L’Estelle House" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.lestellehouse.com/" target="_blank">L’Estelle House</a> was filled with colorful displays and local florists were on hand to design flower crowns, which were a huge hit. The fresh produce was put to good use during an artist salsa challenge and The Accidentals threw their soon-to-be-famous spicy mango pineapple salsa into the ring. Yet another reason these kids are so amazing – very food oriented, this bunch.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/e10718a109996ec847b9ba2b3a5e06357d1564d6/medium/accidentals-salsa-collague.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong><a contents="The Accidentals" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.theaccidentalsmusic.com/" target="_blank">The Accidentals</a> getting spicy at the Salsa Challenge</strong></p>
<p>The salsa wasn’t the only thing getting heated up. More people are arriving for SXSW and the parties are even bigger and louder. The BBC took over the British Music Embassy (it’s a bar, not an international incident) and were broadcasting live back to BBC 1. Or maybe it was BBC 3; I think they are up to like 6 channels now. The sound and production were incredible, either way. Nearly every bar/restaurant/venue along 6th Street has live music of some kind, and that doesn’t include the “official” SXSW showcases and events happening at the bigger performance venues. NPR’s concert at <a contents="Stubb’s" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.stubbsaustin.com/" target="_blank">Stubb’s</a> lasted well into the night (morning?) and included Superorganism, Tank and the Bangas, Low and hip-hop group August Greene with Common.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/97e933a0b1355208a952c90fe33761a96757d694/medium/british-music-embassy.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>The British are here! And they rock!!</strong></p>
<p>Austin is all about music and one can find a plethora of fun things at <a contents="Wild About Music" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wildaboutmusic.com/" target="_blank">Wild About Music</a> on Congress Avenue. This store is freaking fantastic – it is an art gallery and gift shop dedicated entirely to music. They have vintage concert t-shirts, kooky socks, gorgeous mosaic guitars, regular guitars, wine glasses, purses, and… OK, I might have gone a bit overboard in this shop, but it is a seriously cool place. I’d put it on a “must visit” list for sure.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/3f0475a80b72cbb5fba93d1003a62103f0d23c25/medium/wild-about-music.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>This store is AMAZING!!!</strong></p>
<p>All that shopping had me feeling a little peckish (shocking!) so I wandered back to 6th Street and stopped for a bite at <a contents="Eureka" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://eurekarestaurantgroup.com/blog/locations/austin/" target="_blank">Eureka</a>. I was able to get a seat and was pleasantly surprised by the craft beer and scratch-made food choices. Plus the bartender turned the telly to the Syracuse basketball game for me - bonus points because it is March Madness, after all. Hometown southern rockers <a contents="American Gypsy Band" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.americangypsyband.com/" target="_blank">American Gypsy Band</a> kept us entertained inside and even had people on the streets stopping to stand in the wide-open windows as the band showed off their groovy, honky tonk, hippie style. It was kind of amusing to see a dude that looked like Chris Stapleton covering Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb,” but they killed it! </p>
<p>The party is going to keep getting bigger as the weekend approaches, but the city seems up to the task. More streets are blocked off to make room for the pedestrians spilling off the sidewalks and Austin public safety officers are a lot more visible. Also, I saw Wonder Woman driving a pedicab on my way back to the hotel. We’re covered.</p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51362322018-03-19T15:36:27-04:002018-06-10T09:56:15-04:00SXSW Day 2 - Transportation Options <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/89c170fc8e752d4100574365487f1261fb2cd7f7/medium/bridge-horses.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">It was a beautiful day to be out and about in Austin! But first, a stop at the Convention Center for badge pick up. The majority of the showcases and events during SXSW don’t require credentials for entry, but priority is given to conference attendees, so you DO need those stinkin’ badges! </p>
<p>One aspect of the festival that is often forgotten is that it is also a trade show – and there were a lot of groovy vendor displays on the Convention Center floor. SXSW has a very international feel and numerous countries set up their booths in what I dubbed “International Row” because they were mostly in one quadrant of the trade show. It was fun to see all the different technology being shown off – there were tons of virtual reality experiences to try, one booth had a Hello Kitty-looking cat you could interact with, another had a giant Pac Man game to play with, and there was a huge disco dancing robot at the end of one aisle. (I was not allowed to touch that.) </p>
<p>All of the booths competed for attention and free pens were just not going to cut it. Props to the various coffee roasters and bless the hearts of those offering adult beverages despite the early hour. I had coffee made by a robot (not the dancing one) and a bloody Mary made by a person. The coffee took 45 minutes and the bloody Mary took about 45 seconds. To be fair, the coffee didn’t really take that long to make, it was the wait time because EVERYONE wanted to use the cool robot coffee orderer and apparently, robots can only move so fast. Either way, the takeaway is sometimes you can’t play with fancy toys and will just have to drink your vodka like a grown up. In the morning with some spicy tomato juice and a pickle.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/914f856a1de06392bf1731725d2cc1f6a899e78e/medium/trade-show-bevs.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Robot Coffee vs. Human Bloody Mary</strong></p>
<p>After stocking up my fancy SXSW tote with a lot of free pens and small candies, I was headed back to the hotel when I ran into my friends <a contents="The Accidentals" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.theaccidentalsmusic.com/" target="_blank">The Accidentals</a>, completely by, well…. accident. They are a super talented band from Michigan and I worked with them during their (and my) very first trip to SXSW. It’s only been three years, but it seems like ages because of all the success these young musicians have had since then. They are playing a bunch of events this week in Austin, so check them out if you have the chance. </p>
<p>Pedicabs are almost a required form of transportation and I had the chance to use one to head over to an afternoon party. Our driver was fantastic, plus his name was Thor. He even had the proper hair. Our route out to the Scoot Inn took us right past the pedicab garage, or “Pedicab Junction” as Thor called the mural and graffiti covered cement building. </p>
<p>The showcase was “unofficial,” which means that anyone could get in, but VIP invites were sent out so we were on the guest list. (Whew!) VIP’s got a nice raised deck area with seating, so I grabbed a tasty lunch of tacos and chips with guac from one of the food trucks on site and settled in for some jams by a Nashville band called Okey Dokey, followed by Durand Jones & the Indications. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon, I’d say.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/c24f9a1dbab36f943e9bdc0190dc9d7284aaf58c/medium/taco-tuesday.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Taco Tuesday + Tito's</strong></p>
<p>The evening festivities brought a lovely stroll across the river via the Congress Street bridge to BMI’s Howdy Texas party at the <a contents="Yeti&nbsp;flagship store" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.yeti.com/flagship.html" target="_blank">Yeti flagship store</a>, and another batch of familiar faces. <a contents="Larkin Poe" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.larkinpoe.com/" target="_blank">Larkin Poe</a> opened for Detroit’s own Bob Seger on some of his tour stops last year. The sisters rocked, perhaps a bit too loudly for the small, non-acoustic space they were in. Part of SXSW is the loud music, so get used to it – there was plenty more later in the night.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/8631633273b2b0725b9c500e5185bd8725182062/medium/larkin-poe-howdy.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Larkin Poe at the BMI Howdy Texas Party</strong></p>
<p>But first, it was another invite only shindig for Ray Benson’s Birthday Bash, an annual event he holds to benefit the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (<a contents="HAAM" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://myhaam.org/" target="_blank">HAAM</a>), which provides healthcare to working musicians. Ray and his band Asleep At The Wheel played for over three hours with various guests sitting in for a few songs. The whole thing took place in the backyard of the GSD&M building, which was set up with tents and blue twinkle lights for the capacity crowd to enjoy. Guests included Nikki Lane, Jonathan Tyler, Delbert McClinton, comedian Ron White (cigar in hand), and closed with a rollicking set from the <a contents="Preservation Hall Jazz Band" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.preservationhalljazzband.com/" target="_blank">Preservation Hall Jazz Band</a>. I could really get a sense of how much the people of Austin love their music – this was definitely a local-leaning crowd made up of donors, sponsors and VIPs. There really didn’t seem to be much distinction between VIP and the general crowd and everyone was certainly enjoying Ray’s birthday (and the free-flowing booze), but the lack of order was only a precursor of what was to come later.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/0e87db869cd755bdf73fc5dafd27dc3fc2468bd7/medium/ray-benson.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Nikki Lane & Jonathan Taylor join <a contents="Ray Benson" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Benson" target="_blank">Ray Benson</a> onstage for his Birthday Bash</strong></p>
<p>SXSW isn’t for wimps. It’s crowds, loud music, lots of walking and a lot of standing (mostly on hard surfaces in crowds with loud music) and just because you think you are a VIP or “on the list” doesn’t mean you are. I was reminded of this at the Pandora showcase which was supposedly for Platinum Badge holders only but even with proper credentials people were being turned away from The Gatsby in droves. </p>
<p>The only way I was seeing <a contents="Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.nathanielrateliff.com/" target="_blank">Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats</a> was by sneaking in the industry entrance (shhhh!!!). Nikki Lane (from Ray’s party earlier) opened the show, and <a contents="Lukas Nelson" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://lukasnelson.com/" target="_blank">Lukas Nelson</a> & Promise of the Real seemed pretty chuffed to be playing close to home. They were both freaking fantastic! It was a capacity crowd and LOUD, but the high-end production made it worth getting sweaty. Nathaniel reminded people to stay hydrated and to “pace yourselves” when navigating the madness that is SXSW. </p>
<p>Even with countless events going on, some things are constant at SXSW – crowds, music, free pens, waiting in line and people saying, “I’m on the list.” (They aren’t on the list.) Stick with me, I’ll sneak you in.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/a33e20ba4ec4c4ef0df93db407a63d8693017c3c/medium/pedicab-junction.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>Pedicab Junction</strong></p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/51361342018-03-19T14:51:44-04:002018-03-20T12:09:04-04:00SXSW Arrival Day<p>SXSW has certainly descended upon Austin…. Lyft set up a hot pink vintage VW van in baggage claim to greet people at the airport and masses of (presumably) musicians were slinging guitar cases into cars at passenger pick up, so it looked like I was in the right place. Traffic was similar to home in Detroit (not moving), so our driver took us on the scenic route to downtown. I got a chance to see some pretty cool residential areas on the east side of Austin as we cruised along Cesar Chavez Street.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/32942939e57f648dd4115a84bef39717292b06b5/medium/lyft-pink-vw.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Once we finally made it into downtown, the chaos of South By was in full effect. People crossing the streets in droves with no regard for the traffic that was backed up. Yes, pedestrians have the right of way, but seriously people, if you dart out from beside the giant SUV’s blind spot, you’re probably going to get some stink eye. Luckily the window was up so the swear words were contained inside the car. We played a successful game of Frogger dodging hipsters and got to the oasis of the <a contents="Courtyard by Marriott" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/auscd-courtyard-austin-downtown-convention-center/" target="_blank">Courtyard by Marriott</a>. Lovely people and true Texas hospitality. </p>
<p>Then it was back into the fray as we hit the streets looking for dinner. Several unsuccessful attempts to get seated (at 8pm on a Monday, come on hostesses!!) were met with rejection and I was getting hangry. It did give me a chance to see a lot more of 6th Street and it is amazing how much has already been set up for the festival. Several pop-ups had been constructed and some even had people already partying in the fenced off spaces. The ever-accommodating <a contents="Trulucks" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://trulucks.com/" target="_blank">Trulucks</a> provided a delicious dinner with over the top service (thanks, Pat!) before disgorging us back out onto the streets to take in some final revelry for the night.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/ddfe0b1e39f65bff860eb3dfa113ed7fe148198b/medium/sixth-street-begin.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>6th Street gearing up for action</strong></p>
<p>A quick walk along 6th street proved that Austin is more than ready for the music portion of the festival to get underway. Music was spilling out of most of the bars along the strip and the people were all happy to be out enjoying the evening. I was happy to be heading back to the hotel after a long day of travel, but Tuesday promises to bring more adventure – my calendar is packed with events ranging from one hosted by <a contents="Snickers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://snickers.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Snickers</a> to a party with the Scandinavian Consulate General. There are also rumors of a birthday bash later this evening with surprise special guest, so what could go wrong??</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/1e4cd282cd7972ecb03fd545726474bfd5805205/medium/pour-choices.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><strong>In Austin during SXSW??? Never!!!</strong></p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/36294302015-04-04T10:55:34-04:002018-02-15T09:36:34-05:00Girl Power at SXSW<p><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);"><span class="font_large"><em><strong>Never Underestimate the Power of Women, Music and Tacos!</strong></em></span></span><br><br>What happens when three artists who have only interacted on social media get together and decide to play an unofficial SXSW showcase? The Ladybeast Trifecta is born!! I was lucky enough to be a part of an event that affectionately became known as the Ladybeast Trifecta through my association with three talented artists who had only interacted with each other over social media. I had worked with all three of them at different times after connecting through our weekly <a href="http://www.gogirlsmusic.com/" target="_blank">GoGirlsMusic.com </a>Twitter chat. (#ggchat) <a href="http://www.marybue.com/" target="_blank">Mary Bue</a>, Alex Winters and Rorie Kelly were all talking to each other at various times before SXSW about setting up individual shows (Alex lives in Austin, so she had some insight) This is an excellent example of how SXSW can benefit indie musicians who work with each other instead of "every (wo)man for themselves.<br><br><a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.roriekelly.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">Rorie</span></a> had been to SXSW last year and was planning to come back for 2015. Mary and <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alexwintersmusic.com/" target="_blank">Alex</a> were in communication about venues for Mary to play and she was able to set something up at The Waterloo Ice House. In a rare happenstance for SXSW – she could use the time slot to book as she chose. So Mary, being the lovely human that she is, decided to invite Alex to play along and through the POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA…… Rorie got added to the bill and the Ladybeast Trifecta was born!! <br> </p>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/bff70b6949433ee9c5fc8fb141ddcb8a3137d017/small/she-ra-2.png?1427567323" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">By the Power of Social Media!!!</p></div>
<div>
<br>SXSW became the perfect opportunity for these women from different parts of the country to bring their talents together and build on the relationships that are so important in our industry. All three women are at different points in their careers, but know that bonding and finding common ground are what really matter. All three are independent, female singer songwriters (who happen to play guitar) and all three have at least one album under their belt. Each of them believes strongly in the power of community. Below are the reasons each gave as motivation for playing together BEFORE the performance even happened.<br> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Rorie: “I believe that the power of community is going to blast my career upwards in 2015 -- so building up my community here and getting my songs to new ears is my goal.”<br><br>Mary: “SXSW has a vibrancy and energy - everyone is amped up - and I think it can be a meeting of the minds, and a great opportunity to exchange ideas and inspiration.”<br><br>Alex: “I’m hoping to get to spend some time with my fellow GoGirls and meet some new folks who share my vision of music community.”</em></div>
<p><br>This sense of togetherness only continued as Rorie and I spent a good chunk of the day together working on her “Songs to Start a Fire” project and then met up with Alex later that evening. Alex had a solo performance booked as a part of the <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/TexasIndieFest" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">Texas Indie Fest</span></a> at a venue outside of Austin called the Red Shed Tavern. VERY cool place and all about the music. The three of us were able to get together, enjoy some music and even share some Brussel sprouts from the food truck parked on site. The way SXSW brings people together was illustrated once again at the Red Shed – one of my Instagram friends, <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stevenjamestx.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">Steven James</span></a> was playing a set that night, too! It was a wonderful opportunity to finally meet in person and spend some time with him and his band. All because social media put us together at SXSW! (Steven and his band rocked – you should totally check out their new record coming out in early April – Baby LA)<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/2734b460aa0cec906ff8116d8cdfea15fe469443/medium/red-shed-grid.jpg?1427571245" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br>Our night under the twinkle lights at the <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.redshedtavern.com/" target="_blank">Red Shed Tavern</a> ended (Rorie and I made a pit stop at Jack in the Box because neither of us had ever been, so why not?! You know I'm all about the food!) and show day for the Ladybeast Trifecta was upon us! Mary and her husband got to the venue first and started with the set up while Alex and Rorie helped build the buzz by logging into the early session of #ggchat, which generated several requests to stream the performance. Being four tech savvy ladies (yes, that is sarcasm), we rigged Mary’s phone to Alex’s mic stand and set up the stream using <a contents="Meerkat" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.meerkatap.co" target="_blank">Meerkat</a>. It ended up being trial and error because the viewers that tuned in were not seeing exactly the same thing that we were, but with the help of Twitter comments, we were able to adjust the view and at one point had 34 people watching!<br> </p>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/43b9273ab4575594d166f61c9fddd28b3cd00b50/original/ice-house-grid.jpg?1427570834" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">The Ladybeast Trifecta Performance at Waterloo Ice House</p></div>
<p><br>It was so cool to see all three ladies sharing their love of music and the sense of family that was created. We set up a common merch table, complete with glitter table cloth and things just rolled from there. Rorie started things off and Alex joined her to sing on “<a contents="If You Teach a Bird to Sing" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.empoweredwomenofsocialmedia.com/uncategorized/if-you-teach-a-bird-to-sing-rorie-kelly/" target="_blank">If You Teach a Bird to Sing</a>.” They each played an individual set, but the other two were always ready to hop on stage and chime in. The response of the crowd (especially online) was so fun to see – and then, just like that – we were done and sitting around the table with each other, much like any family would. As the “mom” of the bunch, I ended up in the “so, how was your day?” role. This is what the ladies had to say AFTER playing together:<br> </p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Rorie: “…it was really special for me this year to get to connect with two other women doing just what I do. My theme for 2015 is #CommunityNotCompetition and this was a big example of how it works. By teaming up like this, we were able to make a bigger splash than any of us could alone.”<br><br>Mary: “I am pleased to have connected in person and had time to hang out with my Twitter friends and fellow GoGirls Rorie, Alex and Stacey from <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">RSP Entertainment</span></a>. Touring is so much about building relationships and making friends along the way (as well as rocking, of course!) and this solidified some ladybeast bonding for sure!”<br><br>Alex: “Being a part of the Ladybeast Trifecta was pure awesomeness! For me it was all about spending time with my fellow GoGirls. I have been chatting with Rorie and Mary online for over a year now and getting to hear their voices and see them in the flesh was a real treat for me. You know, when you chat with someone online you only get a little breadcrumb of people’s lives. Rarely do you get the stories, the background; the things that brought them to where they are in life. I enjoyed having the opportunity to get a better picture of what these girls are like in the wild.”</em></div>
<p><br>So there you have it – three women with a common goal of sharing their music and lifting people up by working together as a community. The chance to meet up close and personal, learning about each other, performing during SXSW, sharing stories and forging relationships that continue to grow down the road. We’re all on this crazy rock together – why not make the most of it with good times, good tunes, good food and good friends?<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/a0a0dfa8a96d119d0aa55d65c98f85dc5ee94ca9/medium/after-show.jpg?1427569697" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br> </p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/36297222015-03-28T19:29:19-04:002017-01-15T22:39:37-05:00South by Yeah, Don't Plan On It<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);"><em><strong><span class="font_large">Working The Corner of Red River and 6th Street</span></strong></em></span><br><br>South by – yeah, don’t plan on it….I got back from my very first SXSW experience earlier this week and I’m still suffering the after effects of the crazy hours, travel and pouring rain. Be thankful this is digital and you’re not reading this from germ covered paper. {cough, sniffle}<br><br>Alright, I’m going out on a limb and I might get some blow back for this – but I wasn’t all that thrilled with SXSW. I mean, I see what all of the hype is about – the music scene is out of control amazing. There are so many shows and wonderful, creative people all over Austin during the festival. In my opinion, that is part of the problem. Too much to see and do, too spread out and not enough organization. My slightly OCD planner self was spinning. There are people spilling out of venues, lines down the block, street performers with Chewbacca masks, cops, more people, buskers…. you get the idea. There is something going on in every single bar, restaurant, gas station parking lot, some dude’s house; certainly no shortage of music. So if your sole intention at SXSW is to listen to a bunch of live music by artists you may or may not have ever heard of – by all means – this is the place for you!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/05171294d8f5cb689f9367ab0c29090aea3ee79b/medium/crowds-grid.jpg?1427582210" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br>However, if you had hoped to meet some new clients, make connections with industry types or generally “see and be seen,” SXSW really isn’t the most conducive environment. <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.yesyesmarsha.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">Marsha Shandur</span></a> talks briefly about SXSW in her interview on the <a href="http://www.brassybroad.com/18/"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 204);">Brassy Broadcast</span></a> and she pretty much nailed it – unless you have a military plan, not much is going to get accomplished. I was lucky enough to have some semblance of a guide in the form of one of my fellow Detroit music industry peeps who had been to Austin numerous times. Joe warned me that the one thing I had to keep in mind was to go with the flow. Sure, no problem. I could do that, I mean how bad could it be? I. Had. NO. Idea. There is no such thing as planning ahead. Sure, you can have a list of the places and parties you WANT to be at, but that is merely a rough draft. Nobody ever ends up where they say they’re going to be. Joe and I finally resorted to texting each other in the morning to find out where to meet. Sometimes that didn’t work because by the time I was able to get to the DZ (sticking with the military theme), they had already moved on – either the party was “lame” or some other factor. (I’ll get to that in a sec) We were able to triangulate one day on the corner of Red River and 6<sup>th</sup> which seemed to work out better than a specific venue, because you know, hanging out on a street corner ALWAYS works out. Anyhoo…. The afternoon was full of rooftop parties, little people rapping in wheelchairs (I can’t make this shit up), March Madness, Fireball, roller derby girls in the middle of 6<sup>th</sup> Street and lots of walking. But it was fun! What an experience! Who gets to do this? Well, about 500,000 of your closest friends and strangers, that’s who.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/52a01401567474cb8390bb3aa63de0aa997d1288/medium/roof-grid.jpg?1427582664" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br>There are massive amounts of industry parties and you can get invited to a vast majority of them. In fact, I lost track of the number of RSVP’s I sent back prior to departing for Austin. One day I spent at least 30 minutes responding to email invites and transferring everything to my calendar. Of course, just because you RSVP’d doesn’t mean you will actually get <strong><em>IN</em></strong> to the event. (See aforementioned “other factors”) Yep – the laws of physics still apply and you can only squeeze so many people into a venue at any given time. Fire marshals tend to get a wee bit testy about this, so the event organizers (I use the term loosely in some cases) are sticklers about their head count. This became a HUGE problem on Friday when it started to pour down rain. I was very excited to attend the <a contents="SPIN " data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.spin.com" target="_blank">SPIN </a>party at Stubbs which was by all accounts one of THE places to be. Well, I stood in line, got my laminate (I’m fancy!) and proceeded toward the entrance. Only to be stopped and sent back in line. Wait, what? I have a <em><u>laminate</u></em> – I was invited to this party. Yeah, they don’t care. So were all the other schmucks standing around with me in the mud. <a contents="Stubbs " data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.stubbsaustin.com" target="_blank">Stubbs </a>was at capacity and they couldn’t let anyone inside until someone came out. It was a “one out, one in” policy. And yes, that is exactly what you think it is. A guy stands by the door and if one person comes out, he lets one person in. Totally sucked, because in this particular case, my peeps were already INSIDE waiting for me, but I couldn’t get in. So once again, the best laid plans…. I ended up wandering around the streets of Austin with a bunch of other poncho clad people who “weren’t on the list.” (Side note – those advertisers who thought ahead and made ponchos with your product/slogan/logo on them? GENIUS!) <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/b033209ad7d7d853d212662e64eade710d6f5644/medium/stubbs-grid.jpg?1427582957" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br>Now, if I had wanted to spend approximately $800 to get an “official” badge for the SXSW festival, I would have been able to access a lot more. Sadly, I did not do this and was relegated to the rain-soaked and unwashed masses. There are certainly benefits to having credentials – you get access to all the “official” parties (put on by the labels or major companies; usually with more well-known acts and delicious food) PLUS being able to attend all of the panel discussions and networking events INSIDE the Austin Convention Center. For an industry professional looking to make connections and learn more about the business, these panels are a gold mine. The topics vary, but they are generally filled with experts who can share their knowledge and experience. So if I decide to go back, the way to go (for me) is to get a badge and treat it like a work conference with maybe some cool music on the side.<br><br>Afterall, it’s Austin – there is always some cool music on the side! And I got to be a part of one cool event that was over a year in the making – all via social media!! What happens when 4 women who have only met on social media decide to plan a show at SXSW?! Stay tuned!! And you know there has to be <em>something </em>coming about the road food!<br> RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/35434382015-02-19T20:01:20-05:002017-01-15T22:39:36-05:00We Are a GRAMMY® Family<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);"><em><strong><span class="font_large">I Got All My Indies With Me </span></strong></em></span><br><br>When last we left our sparkly shod heroine, she was limping out of The Soiree at the House of Blues after a flurry of GRAMMY® related fun the Friday prior to the broadcast. It was an exciting introduction to how crazy things can get around awards season and how it really doesn’t seem to matter to most of the artists lucky enough to be a part of the festivities. But how does one get to participate? It’s not really about the flash we see on the telly Sunday night.<br><br>Tickets to the actual GRAMMY® Awards are pretty tough to come by. Even if you can afford the $350+ per ticket, a lot of times there is a waiting list and you don’t know until almost the day of if you get in. Makes packing a bit difficult. Bring the dress? Bring the tux? Yes! Always bring the fancy!! Sorry, I digress… The real action and networking takes place at something called the Pre-Telecast early Sunday afternoon. This is the event that is held BEFORE (hence, Pre, duh!) the actual broadcast and all of those awards that we typically don’t hear about are handed out. Most of the general public isn’t aware of these awards or thinks they are the ones “nobody cares about.” Well, guess what? <strong><em>A LOT </em></strong>of people care about them! This is where the indie artists that were so gracious to take me into their fold get recognized. The Pre-Telecast is where the Best New Age Album is handed out. This is where the Best Comedy Album is awarded, Best Spoken Word, etc. All of those GRAMMY® nominees that I had been casually rubbing shoulders with on Friday were up for their time to shine. And shine they did!<br><br>One of the people I was lucky enough to meet on Friday was <a href="http://www.grant-maloy-smith.com/index.php">Grant Maloy Smith</a>. He’s a talented American Roots artist based in Rhode Island. He also seemed to know EVERYONE in the indie community that was at both parties on Friday. He took time to say hello and commiserate, but he was also very quick to cheer and support his fellow musicians. Grant and his wife host a famous brunch at the JW Marriott prior to the Pre-Telecast on Sunday morning. I’d been hearing people all night talking about their schedules for Sunday including the party – and quite frankly, I was a little peeved that I hadn’t been invited to Grant’s brunch. Well, after meeting Grant in the cramped back butler’s pantry walk through at the HOB, I finally got my coveted invite. It was Red Carpet GRAMMY® time, folks!
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/a014afb88d528314e45002c185619d6b40416a09/medium/grant-me.jpg?1424387311" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">The Host with the most ... ponies. <a contents='Grant Maloy Smith' data-link-label='' data-link-type='' href='http://www.grant-maloy-smith.com' target='_blank'>Grant Maloy Smith</a></p></div></div><br>Wait, the Red Carpet starts at 10am? Um, this kind of fancy does not happen quickly, and certainly not at the crack of dawn! If I wanted my opportunity to meet even more movers and shakers, my ass was going to have to be out of bed, coffee’d up and in my SPANX by 9am. Hair and makeup? Yep, that too. I could do it. This was what the entire trip was all about – meeting people, making connections and getting the chance to walk an actual red carpet. So up I got, did my hair, grabbed my gown and Uber-ed over to the hotel of an old colleague who was in town covering the GRAMMY’s for his radio station. He happened to have his tuxedo (just in case – see, always bring the fancy!) and I decided to invite him for the chance to network. I got changed really quickly and we proceeded to strut our 10a stuff right through the lobby, out to our car and off to Grant’s party we went!<br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/b5e26e040ccb74d0eeebe683f9b2a1f07d395e0f/medium/beau-hotel-2.jpg?1424387269" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption"><a contents='96.3 WDVD' s data-link-label='' data-link-type='' href='http://www.963wdvd.com' target='_blank'>96.3 WDVD's</a> Beau Derek - Red Carpet Ready!</p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"> </div>We arrived at the swanky JW Marriott LIVE and went right in. And by “went right in” I mean after I almost face planted getting out of the car. I told you, 5 inch heels and a floor length gown – not so much in the morning! I managed to recover gracefully (pretending there was an offending crack in the driveway) and went in with my head held high and my feet already tingling. We were greeted by a throng of people milling about, chatting with each other and sharing in the excitement that was about to commence. People I had only said hello to in passing on Friday were running up to me and hugging me; telling me how gorgeous I looked; how happy they were to finally meet me. Wait, what? I’m not an artist. I’m not some big shot music industry person – what can I do for you? <em>THEY DON’T CARE! </em><br><br>This amazing group of people is so supportive and genuinely caring that all they want is to make connections and share their joy with the people around them. I stood back and watched as group after group of people ran onto the red carpet that Grant had set up and got their photos taken. They were so full of happiness to be seeing their friends and peers. It was a lot of “Hold on, where’s so and so? She HAS to be in this one!” and “Here, can you hold my purse? I need to get this!” Strangers holding purses and grabbing cell phones to take photos. People were piling into pictures, making faces and photo bombing like a bunch of teenagers. Truly, the only way I can really describe it is as <em>joyful glee</em>. I was introduced to a ton of people who all gave me cards and asked for mine. Lots of artists and producers came up to me and gave me CD’s. As fun as it was, we all knew there was a purpose to this red carpet. Meeting as many people as possible to help grow the indie music community. You never know when someone will need help with something and you know “just the guy (or gal)” to get it done. I’m a big fan of making things a win/win for everyone involved.
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/e6b17a31a8db32139b2b3df368233abc2c48e4e4/medium/cecil-red-carpet.jpg?1424386568" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Me, Cecil Parker, Lisa Sniderman & <a contents='Jody Quine' data-link-label='' data-link-type='url' href='http://www.jodyquine.com' target='_blank'><span style='color: rgb(128, 0, 128);'>Jody Quine</span></a></p></div></div><br>It was such a wonderful experience attending the brunch, and the mimosas made it a little easier to handle the early hour. I was so happy to finally put faces to some of the names I’d only seen on Twitter and other social media. Kenya Autie, <a href="http://stefmuzic.com/">Stef Mariani</a> and <a href="http://www.aoedemuse.com/">Lisa Sniderman</a> are some of the lovely ladies that I was introduced to and they are even MORE lovely in real life! (Kenya and her husband Oscar own a <a href="http://www.elcerritostudio.com/">studio</a> in San Francisco and are a total riot!!) If I hadn’t sucked it up and made the trip, I would’ve missed out on this incredible experience. As much as I question whether or not I belong in this position, it was made very clear to me that I was right where I was supposed to be on that Sunday morning. <br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/1df2c23870a3e55d71b53e8db87d0e0fd1aa1d03/medium/me-red-carpet-2.jpg?1424387310" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">On the RED CARPET!!</p></div><br>The community of musicians that comes together is so supportive - it inspires me to continue working with them to help get their stories and music out there. It really is a genuine sense of family and I could feel the love exuded by groups of people who were sometimes meeting in person for the first time. There was a sense of camaraderie and “we’re all in this together” that pervaded the entire weekend. The joy of being with other GRAMMY® nominated artists and the thrill of watching them win (<a href="http://www.windsofsamsara.com/">Winds of Samsara – Best New Age Album!</a>) was evident to me all weekend long. YOU might not have heard of Grant Maloy Smith, Jody Quine, <a contents="Elizabeth Butler" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.ebutlermusic.com" target="_blank">Elizabeth Butler</a>, <a href="http://caesarjazz.com/">Caesar Jazz Balladeer</a> or <a href="http://www.cecilparker.com/">Cecil Parker</a>, but I guarantee you, they are a big deal in the music industry – the one you don’t see broadcast in Prime Time. These are just a few of the folks who are in the trenches getting it done. For the music. Grant put it very succinctly, and I agree with him 100%. <br> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);"><strong><em>"There are two Grammys ... unfortunately most people only get to see the one on TV, which is made for 12 year olds, felons and auto-tune specialists. But the PRE-telecast (which is streamed on the internet), is where 90% of the awards are given out. The show is OPEN SEATING -- there are no Kanyes in the front row. It's completely different, because it has hard working musicians in it who make music<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> because they love it. And it's where the depth and breadth of music are celebrated, from Jazz to New Age, World, Folk, Roots, and the rest. There aren't any temper tantrums or petulant tiffs. As a proud member of the Recording Academy, I wish that everyone could see THIS Grammy award show from a seat inside the Nokia Center. For my money, this is the REAL Grammys, because it represents what they should be about: musical excellence, humility, and graciousness." ~ Grant Maloy Smith</span></em></strong></span></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/eead2b8fcba13e72729f99b21989d07c1d697cc1/original/el-cerito-studio.png?1424387282" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Some of the talented GRAMMY® Nominated Peeps at Brunch</p></div><br>Beau Derek and I never made it to the actual ceremony, but I don’t think we really missed it. I was able to take off my fancy outfit and sky high shoes after brunch and went to the pool. We walked back later and wandered around the Staples Center and vicinity in relative peace and quiet. A lot of the people I had brunch with DID get to attend the GRAMMY® Awards and they were mostly relegated to the cheap seats, but still managed to make it into an experience of childlike wonder and fun. To true music people, it’s not really about being in the front row or hundreds of screaming fans or seeing some over-produced and manufactured pop star. Being at The GRAMMY’s means different things to different people – and you can make it into whatever you want it to be. I strongly suggest going and being a part of the festivities if you can. I made a bunch of new friends, some great business connections and got photographed on the red carpet. We even saw Richie Sambora & Orianthi while having dinner at Wolfgang Puck’s. That was my GRAMMY® win!<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/b54091de9c7de9f1f4dafd30539e298f4849da8f/medium/richie.jpg?1424387756" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">OMG! That's Richie Sambora!!<br> </p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);"><em><strong>All work and no play makes for a hungry publicist!! Next up – some last minute touristy fun and all the food stops I could cram into my trip! In-N-Out Burger here I come!!</strong></em></span></div>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/35334272015-02-16T00:19:42-05:002017-01-15T22:39:36-05:00You Can't Always Get What You Want<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);"><em><strong><span class="font_large">Roll With It....</span></strong></em></span><br><br>To say that my GRAMMY® weekend was an adventure would be an understatement. The best laid plans of mice and men often <em>do</em> go awry. The trip was a test of my patience and my OCD organizational skills, but I met so many wonderful music people and learned a lot about this machine that is the music biz. I'm still pinching myself that I got to spend time with such an fantastic group of people.<br><br>My first clue that I wasn’t the boss of anything should have been when my flight on Thursday was delayed by an hour AFTER we boarded and pushed from the gate. Fog in LA, who knew?? The flight delay caused my ride from the airport to be messed up and I had to take the shuttle to Union Station. Hauling my luggage. I chose to follow my “stepping out of my comfort zone” theory and met a cool guy named Gabe while waiting for the shuttle. I thought he was a musician, but it turned out he was in town for a long weekend after his company sales retreat. I’m not going to say <em>which</em> company he works for, but let’s just say he was appalled by my choice of a Droid over an iPhone. (AHEM!) He was still very nice and did not mock me too much for my lack of technical skill. Here’s Gabe and me making the most of the shuttle of the damned.
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/9cfe7817066e23dd4830249a29ae36058bdedb91/medium/gabe.jpg?1424060987" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></div><br>The adventure continued the next afternoon (Friday) as my Sidecar arrived to take me to hair and makeup. Yes, I just said I had to go to hair and makeup. I felt pretty fancy getting dropped off in a Benz, too. Heh, heh! It seems like EVERYONE in LA uses a car service like <a contents="Uber " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.uber.com" target="_blank">Uber </a>or Sidecar to get around. They use “Uber” as a verb. “Let’s just <em>Uber</em> over to the premiere.” The traffic is beyond belief. I mean, I live in Detroit and we know a thing or two about rush hour. But rush hour at 2:15p is ridiculous! I must say, having the convenience of someone else to drive you around is a pretty nice way to go. We “Uber-ed” to all of our parties the rest of the night. You can even order a town car or SUV depending on what your needs are. <em><span lang="JA" style='line-height: 107%; font-family: "MS Mincho"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol"; mso-hansi-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;'>★</span><span lang="JA" style='line-height: 107%; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;'> </span><span style='line-height: 107%; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;'>Excellent alternative to hiring a limo or something super pricey if you or your clients are on a bit of a budget. </span> </em>
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/d1d98072ce32d4ea098bb57930ea1a9f235bd0ad/medium/benz.jpg?1424057750" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Arriving in style for hair and makeup at <a contents='Hass &amp; Company' data-link-label='' data-link-type='' href='http://www.haasandcompany.com/haasandcompany/haas_home.html' target='_blank'>Hass & Company</a></p></div></div><br>After hair and makeup it was crunch time to get <a contents="Elizabeth Butler " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ebutlermusic.ocm" target="_blank">Elizabeth Butler </a>to her events. Elizabeth was a featured performer during <a contents="The Soiree " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thesoiree.la" target="_blank">The Soiree </a>at the House of Blues and we were working the press line before the event. It was a pretty big deal – an exclusive event for GRAMMY® nominees and industry types. Here’s where I started to figure out that things were about to go wonky again. We were invited to another party that was taking place before the <a contents="House of Blues" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.houseofblues.com" target="_blank">House of Blues</a>, but they were miles apart. I was very worried that we would not be able to make the red carpet if we tried to do both. I had been hired to handle the media during The Soiree, and if traffic conditions stayed the same as they had been, we would be hard pressed to get all the way downtown and back to Hollywood before the carpet ended. So my professional advice was to miss the first party and go do the PR thing at the House of Blues. There was a lot of discussion and Elizabeth ultimately made the decision to honor her word and we went to the Nomination party for Ricky Kej & Wouter Kellerman's <a contents="“Winds of Samsara" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.windsofsamsara.com" target="_blank">“Winds of Samsara</a>.” <em><strong>(They won the GRAMMY® on Sunday!!!) </strong></em>It was tough for me, because I totally agree on principle that one should always do what one says. However, from a professional standpoint, missing the PR line that was my sole job wasn’t really acceptable either. We ended up making it to both, arriving back in Hollywood for the madness that would turn out to be The Soiree. <em>★ Remember that the client makes the ultimate decision, but your professional opinion is what they're paying you for. Don't be afraid to speak your mind.</em><br><br><a contents="The Foundation Room" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.houseofblues.com/losangeles/fr" target="_blank">The Foundation Room</a> at the House of Blues on Sunset is typically closed to the public. <a contents="Al Walser" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alwalser.com" target="_blank">Al Walser</a> rented it out to host his fabulous party for nominees. If all had gone according to plan, I would have been shocked at this point. I think we’ve learned that not everything goes the way we want it to. The red carpet had been moved to a hotel a block and a half away from the House of Blues. However, nobody told us ahead of time and we had to wander around the Sunset Strip a bit aimlessly for a few minutes before some poor soul took pity on us. Wandering around The Strip in 5 inch glitter heels is not something I recommend. Just saying.<br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/d8fc0df3f2ca63e9c05f41e224d1047d2116c567/medium/hob-shoes.jpg?1424061005" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Glitter shoes are pretty, but can be killers!</p></div><br>We were granted access to the <a contents="Grafton Hotel " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.graftononsunset.com" target="_blank">Grafton Hotel </a>only to be met by a <em>MOB </em>of people waiting to walk the red carpet. It was so <strong>NOT </strong>what I imagined a Hollywood red carpet event would be like. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason to anything. (Another lesson learned – even in Hollywood, they don’t always have their shit together.) I had to force our way through people just to get Elizabeth in front of the press. The staff was doing their best to direct things, but the amount of people milling about was staggering. Guests were vying to be photographed and the journalists didn’t know at first who was who. I’d like to think this was where I earned my keep – navigating camera set ups, dodging lighting rigs, directing photogs on how to shoot Elizabeth and prepping the reporters with background and bio info; all while wearing a cocktail dress and the aforementioned 5 inch heels. We made it through with no wardrobe malfunctions in front of the cameras. I am personally very thankful that Elizabeth’s daughter had some safety pins, though. <em>★ Lesson learned: bring your PR Go bag – even if it doesn’t match your dress.</em><br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/46aebb04a923aadd7c05c23b59d52e99a471bb41/medium/elizabeth-press.jpg?1424057750" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Elizabeth Butler & <a contents='Kira Small ' data-link-label='' data-link-type='' href='http://www.kirasmall.com/' target='_blank'>Kira Small </a>working the Red Carpet Press Line</p></div><br>So we made it through a couple of hurdles and were now minutes away from the scheduled performance time. NOTE I said “SCHEDULED” performance time. The logistics of the whole event and red carpet back ups caused the performances to be way behind schedule. Elizabeth was originally scheduled to go on at 10:30p and I think she ended up playing somewhere around 11:30 or 12. So many people wanted to attend the party that Al booked both rooms upstairs at the HOB, but that still wasn’t enough space. It was a crush of people all trying to network, mingle and catch some awesome music. So much so, that a lot of the artists couldn’t even get inside at first. That led to things being even more being behind schedule, but amazingly enough, the majority of people didn’t seem to mind. I was shocked, being one of the minority that DID mind. How could such a major event happen with so much seeming to go wrong? <em><span lang="JA" style='line-height: 107%; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;'>★</span><span style='line-height: 107%; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;'>Time to learn that not everyone is as much of a perfectionist as I am and things tend to work out without so much fretting! </span> </em>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><br>Everyone was so excited to be a part of such a wonderful evening, that when things went sideways with performances being pushed or getting squished in the crowd, people just rolled with it. Sure, there were a few complaints, but all in all, it was dealt with fairly well. The amount of genuine appreciation for the music and talent that was present was astounding to watch. My friend <a contents="Jody Quine " data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.jodyquine.com" target="_blank">Jody Quine </a>was instrumental in convincing me to come to LA and she KILLED as the emcee. Talk about a woman that can roll with the changes!</p>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/54c157e72c5b1b3bf56358ca977b409de7a5548f/medium/jody-red-carpet.jpg?1424062522" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">The fabulous Jody Quine rocking the red carpet at The Soiree</p></div>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><br>My first 36 hours in Hollywood as a publicist and I’d already learned a lot of valuable lessons. The indie music community is alive and well – and well represented during GRAMMY® week. These are the people that do what they love and celebrate with their whole hearts their art and the work of their peers. With all of the ups and downs of my couple of days, the main things I took away were:</p>
<ul> <li><em>To lower my expectations of others – not everyone is a perfectionist</em></li> <li><em>My way isn’t the only way (aka, the world does NOT revolve around me)</em></li> <li><em>Plan ahead for traffic – UBER it if you can</em></li> <li><em>Stepping out of your comfort zone (again) isn’t always a bad thing</em></li> <li><em>Even when things seem out of control, they probably aren’t</em></li> <li><em>Go with the flow – everything happens for a reason</em></li> <li><em>Safety pins and snacks are necessities</em></li> <li><em>Be prepared to go home in a cocktail dress and your <a contents="Chucks" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.converse.com/" target="_blank">Chucks</a></em></li> <li><em>When Malcolm Jamal Warner wants a photo, smile even if you can’t feel your feet</em></li>
</ul>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/88bf27ceac64342611021968feb858321af16288/medium/malcolm-jamal.jpg?1424061960" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">That's Theo Huxtable - GRAMMY® Winner <a contents='Malcolm Jamal Warner' data-link-label='' data-link-type='url' href='http://www.malcolmjamalwarner.com' target='_blank'>Malcolm Jamal Warner</a>!!<br> </p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">That was my first full day on the PR job in Tinseltown– stay tuned for more on actual GRAMMY® day and my touristy fun in the sun. There were more celebrity sightings!!</div>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/35111392015-02-06T19:03:18-05:002018-03-19T15:37:58-04:00I Did NOT Wake Up Like This<p>It's been a crazy few days getting ready for my GRAMMY trip. A girl has to look her best, especially in LA! From dress fittings to beauty to travel arrangements, I've done it all in the past few days. There is a whole lot that goes into putting the whole package together and it's not as easy and effortless as we want you to believe.<br><br>Who are you wearing? We all know that is the first question asked on the red carpet. I don't have any fancy designer gowns, but I do have a secret weapon - an excellent seamstress. I was able to save some money by borrowing dresses, but it was a bit on the big side. Cue Pam Losey, a lady I met when working on the Mrs. Michigan pageant. Pam has mad sewing skills and I enlisted her help to make sure I didn't have a wardrobe malfunction. I had to go back a couple of times to get the fit perfect (to meet Pam's standards) but it was worth the drive. Now I can step out on the red carpet knowing that there is no chance of anything slipping, unless it's me in my shoes.</p>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/43c0344af83828da4eaebfdb366a3946eefb96dd/medium/20150202-163139.jpg?1423255846" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">My great seamstress, Pam</p></div>
<p><br>Speaking of shoes, as a girl who wears Chucks on the regular, strutting around in 5 inch heels for these events could be problematic. So I started what I affectionately call "Shoe Practice" early in the week. It involves basically wearing my shoes around the house during all of my daily activities. This leads to some questionable fashion choices - glitter shoes and pajamas are not a combo one usually sees on the red carpet. I also had to make sure my piggies were in tip top shape and headed in for a pedicure. No easy feat in Michigan. During the winter with two feet of snow on the ground. I was dodging snow mountains in the parking lot just to get there. Then came that awkward shuffle walk thing back to my car. Those paper flip flop things were not made as snow shoes!</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/710a2beb9bbd97df54184431e96ac2cf019d28b5/medium/1423105631221.jpg?1423255915" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Poor Pedicure Planning - Michigan Winter</p></div></div>
<p><br>I'm lucky enough to be going to GRAMMY events this weekend because <a contents="Jody Quine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jodyquine.com" target="_blank">Jody Quine</a> invited me to the party she is emceeing at the House of Blues. It was also on her suggestion that I was hired by <a contents="Elizabeth Butler" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ebutlermusic.com" target="_blank">Elizabeth Butler</a> to help work the red carpet press line. Jody was batting a thousand, so when she told me about eyelash extensions I knew I had to give it a try. I was able to find a lovely professional in Metro Detroit who hooked me up a full set of very glamorous lashes. The salon is called <a contents="Wink Lash Lounge" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.winklashlounge.com" target="_blank">Wink Lash Lounge</a> and it was a really cool experience going there. It reminded me a lot of the beauty salon in Steel Magnolias. There were some super fun ladies there and the conversation ranged from face lifts to cute guys and everything in between. Apparently, Wink is the Go To place for GRAMMY prep. There was a woman there at the same time as I was whose brother was nominated for a GRAMMY and she's flying out for the event as well.<br><br>The whole lash process took about 2 hours and it involves a very steady hand and medical grade glue. Nikki and her staff were awesome. I hopped up on a massage table and relaxed with my eyes closed while she attached individual lashes directly to my own lashes. The end result was amazing (see below), and I was very impressed with how knowledgeable Nikki was. I highly recommend getting lash extensions if you have a fun event or even if you just need to boost your own natural lashes a little bit.<br> </p>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/86e8ade28e4ea886dc05d257339535c2197a3ddb/medium/photogrid-1423258366741.jpg?1423258664" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">These Peepers are POPPIN'!</p></div>
<p>So now I'm all primped, scrubbed, buffed, polished, glued and packed. It's been very exciting and a bit exhausting just getting ready to go. As much as I hate to admit it, looking good in the crazy superficial world of LA is a big part of the game. My job depends on showing the public what they expect - from both my clients and myself. It's time to get my costume on. I can't wait to experience my first red carpet press line. Suit up!!<br><br>P.S. I'm totally going to In-N-Out Burger in my Chucks after this weekend!<br><br> </p>RSP Entertainment Marketingtag:www.rspentertainmentmarketing.com,2005:Post/34978542015-02-02T22:45:00-05:002017-01-15T22:39:36-05:00Who is this person and how did SHE get backstage? <em><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 153);"><span class="font_large">How stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to some wicked cool stuff.</span></span></em><br><br>A year ago I never would have dreamed that I would be getting ready to go to the GRAMMY Awards this week. Hell, I never would’ve dreamed that I could do even HALF of the things I did in the past year. How did I get here? Let me tell you.<br><br>The actual journey is a long and sordid tale, but the short version encompasses my love of music and my ability to organize the shit out of things for other people. After becoming a professional PR consultant less than a year ago, I’ve done some amazing things.<ul> <li>I got to meet Kevin Bacon (Thank you, <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cindyalexander.com/" target="_blank">Cindy Alexander</a>!), Mark Rivera, Don Felder, Mark Farner and a bunch of other killer musicians.</li> <li>I met <a data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.dickvitaleonline.com/" target="_blank">Dick Vitale</a> and was able to introduce him to Lionel Richie and CeeLo – after which I was Tweeting from Dick’s cell phone and got written up in the <a contents="Washington Post" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/wp/2014/07/15/dick-vitale-loves-lionel-richie-and-he-wants-the-whole-world-to-know-repeatedly/" target="_blank">Washington Post</a>.</li> <li>I did the PR and ran the behind the scenes for a major charity event to benefit Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.</li> <li>I got to ride to work on a tour bus and hang out backstage with my clients.</li> <li>I received a hand addressed package from <a contents="Lita Ford" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.litafordonline.com" target="_blank">Lita Ford</a>. IThank you,<a contents=" Martina Fasano" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.playing-with-chaos.com" target="_blank"> Martina Fasano</a>!)</li> <li>I got a phone call from the French Consulate General. (Thank you, <a contents="Eric John Kaiser" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ericjohnkaiser.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 153);">Eric John Kaiser</span></a>!)</li>
</ul>
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<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/56872065a3daa8a82d5d063b38c5ac699d3cd840/medium/dv-lionel-me.jpg?1422756350" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Dick Vitale, Lionel Richie and Me </p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Yep – that’s me with two legends – Dick Vitale and <a contents="Lionel Richie" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.lionelrichie.com" target="_blank">Lionel Richie</a>. I’ve skipped way ahead in the story, but seriously, who is this person walking around in my body? The first time the whole out of body thing happened was during a press junket and <a contents="Peter Frampton" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.peterframpton.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 153);">Peter Frampton</span></a><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 153);"> </span>retweeted something I’d posted about my client. We jumped up and down like little kids, high fiving because we were so excited, then I burst into tears because I was so overwhelmed.</div>
<div><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/d669014b38a67209cdbd8f89e06afbdd53e968f1/medium/frampton-tweet.jpg?1422756800" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">That whole press tour was what helped me finally figure out what I want to be when I grow up. The only tools I had to make things happen were my amazing research skills, a lovely phone voice and a client with a dream who took a chance on me. I certainly didn’t have any media contacts outside of Detroit – but I made it happen. Doing PR for my clients became my way of putting all of the skills I’d developed over years in the entertainment industry (and life in general) to use. <br><br>So back to the GRAMMY’s (again, I know…) and the fact that I’m so nervous I might throw up as I write this. But I’m getting on a plane in a few days to head to sunny (I hope) LA and I’m going to rock not one, but TWO killer dresses and some totally bad ass shoes on the red carpets with my clients. I will be extraordinarily uncomfortable, and not just because of my heels but because I know that I still have a lot to learn about this business and a part of me feels like I really don’t belong on a red carpet. I’m not anyone important – just a socially awkward nerd from Detroit. It’s still a process and some days it is a struggle just to get out of bed because of the sacrifices I’ve made, the personal battles I’ve waged and the challenges I know I still have to face. But it’s totally worth it when I see the look on a client’s face when something THEY only dreamed of was facilitated by me pushing myself. Or when I’m able to take my partners in crime to a show and we all get treated like royalty backstage.</div>
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<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/927d899c38d8578043abbe143ecade5214124b44/medium/backstage.jpg?1422756405" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Toronto - Backstage in my 'usual' seat</p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">As my friend <a contents="Gia " data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.giawarner.com" target="_blank">Gia </a>says, “We are all right where we are supposed to be." All of the amazing highs and crippling lows of the last year have gotten me ready for the spotlight. I’ve learned who my real friends are and who just said they were when it was convenient for them. I’ve also learned that help and hope are found not where you think they will be, but where you least expect it. This is the next part of my rock n roll adventure and I’m going to share it so maybe some little part of my story will strike a chord with someone out there. Plus, hanging out in Hollywood during GRAMMY week is pretty freaking cool.<br> </div>
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<em>★</em> <em>“The things you are passionate about are not random. They are your calling.” – Fabienne Fredrickson </em><em>★</em><br> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Here are a few more of the fun highlights from RSP Entertainment Marketing’s first year…..</div>
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<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/142703/cbad842d1071d269009faad8514cda1f5e3175eb/medium/highlight.jpg?1422756419" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br>See you on the red carpet!!</div>
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</div>RSP Entertainment Marketing