Friday, February 14, 2014

ArtistEcard’s Comprehensive Marketing Platform for Artists, Bands and DJs Receives Notable Interest for Mobile Builder Program At MIDEM Conference




February 13, 2014 (Los Angeles, CA) Create/Publish/Engage/Monetize:  ArtistEcard’s slogan to musicians and artists is simply that: direct and to the point.  While the Internet and social media have evolved into free marketing tools for any brand, company or individual to take advantage of, there are a select few all-inclusive services that capitalize on user-friendly tools for creating an online presence and brand building catering to Artists, Bands & DJs.   

The music industry has constantly evolved and artists can no longer rely on album sales alone. Promoting oneself via an online presence is what is expected and needed in order to stay relevant.  Setting-up a new release, promoting tour dates or starting a campaign can be a daunting task if you do not have the necessary tools or budget.  ArtistEcard aims to change all that with a one-stop / one log in marketing platform for website and EPK development, fan engagement and acquisition, the creation of apps, distribution and an e-commerce solution.  All tools which are easy to utilize, with no HTML or coding skills required.  The service is free with upgrades starting at eight dollars per month. 

Artistecard tool features include;
   Music, bio, music, news, photos, videos, shows and contact info
   HTML5 website development
   Facebook, iPhone and Android apps
   Website & apps which are optimized for all mobile devices
   The ability to sell tickets directly to fans
   A domain and webhosting while offering established artists’ the ability to use existing domains
   Analytics and Search Engine Optimization
   The sales of digital, physical and virtual goods providing the credit card processing (accepting all types of currency) and the pick, pack and ship globally from their centralized warehouse
   Content and updates are dynamically pulled from the client console publishing across all platforms
   The site is available in multiple languages
   Video tutorials and online customer support

Artistecard Video Tutoria Of All Services:  http://bit.ly/1fkZh0J

Apps generated an estimated $26 billion in worldwide revenue in 2013, up 44% over 2012, according to Gartner.  ArtistEcard Mobile Builder provides clients with the ability to create their own stunning mobile apps for iOS and Android, optimized for mobile devices.  Once the user has created a profile, one simply clicks on the Mobile Builder, types in a name for the app with a description and upload an image and a logo. Clicking next, musicians and bands can choose from a number of players and colors and then designate iPhone/ Android or both for use.  Once saved, the ArtistEcard Developer account(s) submits the apps to iTunes and/or Google Play for approval. The menu for the apps include; music, bio, videos, photos, shows, news, e-commerce store and more with all content dynamically pulled from the client’s dashboard and pushed to the apps in real time.   Apps are included with the Pro Plan or available separately for $8 or 2 for $12.  More information and how to use Artistecard’s Mobile Builder can be found at http://bit.ly/1gwmLDI.

Catering to a highly targeted clientele, ArtistEcard is the ideal marketing platform for professional musicians, solo artists, bands, record labels, producers, engineers, managers, DJs, and students focusing on promotion, brand building and fan engagement.

The Company recently attended the MIDEM Conference held annually in Cannes, France where they held a series of successful meetings with digital aggregators, distributors and information technology services.  As a member of A2IM, the meetings were held in their exhibition space where the marketing platform was met with great enthusiasm. Numerous digital distributors from around the world showed a keen interest in the Mobile Builder for Apps with intentions of making them available to each respective client base.  Immediate future plans are to leverage these newfound relationships into curating additional formidable global marketing B 2 B strategic partnerships. 

About Artistecard:
Headquartered in Chicago, ArtistEcard is a comprehensive marketing platform providing the tools for Artists, Bands and DJs to create, publish, engage and monetize fans.  The powerful software platform includes a suite of tools including:  HTML5 and EPK builder; Facebook, mobile apps; integration of social media platforms; database management for direct-to-fan engagement; ecommerce store for physical, digital and virtual goods with centralized global fulfillment; world-wide digital distribution; enhanced analytics and support services.  The service is free and includes a domain and webhosting while offering established artists’ the ability to use existing domains. The site is available in multiple languages with upgrades starting at $8.00 per month.  ArtistEcard allows users to create all of these elements for themselves with no coding or website development skills required.   For more information, visit: www.artistecard.com          

Heart Announces “ROCKIN HEAVEN - CANADA TOUR 2014” with special guest Jason Bonham


Vancouver, BC ~ Paul Mercs Concerts is proud to present the following Canadian concert dates for 2013 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Heart.  Heart will be bringing their repertoire of hits back to their beloved Canada, and will be joined by special guest Jason Bonham in a sensational finale tribute to Led Zeppelin.

June 14                                                    Montreal, QC                                        Bell Centre
June 15                                                    Quebec City, QC                                 Pavillon de la Jeunesse
June 17                                                    Oshawa, ON                                          General Motors Centre
June 18                                                    Ottawa, ON                                            Canadian Tire Centre
June 20                                                    Sault Ste. Marie, ON                       Essar Centre
June 22                                                    Winnipeg, MB                                                       MTS Centre Theatre
June 23                                                    Regina, SK                                             Brandt Centre-Evraz Place
June 24                                                    Edmonton, AB                                                      Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
June 26                                                    Calgary, AB                                            Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
June 28                                                    Kelowna, BC                                         Prospera Place
June 29                                                    Victoria, BC                                            Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre


Ann & Nancy Wilson first met Jason Bonham, son of famed Led Zeppelin drummer,  John Bonham when they performed “Stairway to Heaven” together at the Kennedy Center Honors tribute to Led Zeppelin in December 2012.  Over 6 million fans have watched the performance live online and purchased the track on iTunes.

Now, in addition to a full set of Heart classics and hits including Barracuda, Crazy on You and What About Love, fans can experience this historic pairing live when Jason Bonham sits in with Heart to close each show with a mind-blowing finale tribute to Led Zeppelin.

A new Heart DVD/CD featuring songs from their newest album, Fanatic, “Fanatic Live from Caesar’s Colosseum,” which was recorded in Windsor ON, will be released on February 25, 2014.

EMERGING SINGER-SONGWRITER ROXANNA TO RELEASE NEW MUSIC VIDEO OF SINGLE “CLOSE YOUR EYES”



GOING FOR RADIO ADDS FEBRUARY 18

AVAILABLE ON ITUNES AND AMAZON FEBRUARY 25

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“I believe music can heal. I believe music can soothe. I believe music is the language of the heart and soul. I believe you can spin tragedy into beauty.”

(Los Angeles, CA): Canadian singer-songwriter Roxanna is a breath of fresh air emerging with a Latin flair from a cultured background, distinguishing herself from today’s contemporary artists. Joining forces with Mark Portmann, known for working with artists such as Michael Buble and Barbara Streisand, Roxanna has produced a polished and luxurious rich sound. “Close Your Eyes” provides a snippet of Roxanna’s sultry vocals and artistic style showcased through her anticipated upcoming album Exotica, a seamless, mastered mix of adult contemporary, classic pop, world, and a taste of flamenco which will be released in April. 

“Close Your Eyes” takes you on a personal journey of an empathetic story, with her accompanied music video. Featuring a minimal backdrop, the direction perfectly fits with the dramatic storyline and emotional lyrics. Proving that this single can already be a classic ballad, Roxanna’s heartfelt message is strongly emphasized by the elegance of her beautiful vocals.  Just from the first few bars of music, you’ll be mystified by the music inviting you to continue to listen to this story she is singing to you. 

“Written by Lindy Robbins and Mark Portmann, their words really spoke to me and my previous career being a nurse, “Til your worries are melting away… and your dreams come carry you far from sorrow…I’ll be here til the sunrise… you’re stronger than you ever knew before.” It sends the same message I would tell my patients that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, after every storm there is a rainbow, just an overall hope in the end.”

Roxanna is determined to craft every song and lyric as relatable to whomever will take a listen. It was her patients and her mother who inspired her to pursue music and gave her the desire to heal people. Roxanna wants to spread love through romance songs and her stories. Relating with every lyric especially as a nurse and as a healer, it still can connect with anyone who has gone through tough times, fought back and have become a stronger people as a result of any hardships and obstacles that life has thrown at them.

“I believe “Close Your Eyes” can relate to many people who have lost loved ones or losing their hope. When people are listening to the lyrics I’d like them to know they are not alone. I wish to heal them with this song.”

With plans for a full-length debut CD release, “Exotica” will be available worldwide featuring a string of romantic and flamenco influenced songs including new renditions of The Hollies 1972 hit song, “The Air That I Breathe,” Julio Iglesias’ 1975 hit song “El Amor,” and Lionel Richie’s 1984 smash hit, “Hello,” which will be premiering soon on smooth jazz radio stations across the United States.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

LAP STEEL GUITARIST MICHAEL BARRY-REC RELEASES NEW ALBUM “CONTINUUM” FEBRUARY 18 FEATURING GEORGE WINSTON ON FIRST SINGLE “SANCTUM”




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(Los Angeles): For lap steel guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Michael Barry-Rec, his third full-length release, Continuum, produced a fresh new sound that emerged from his incredible experience at Montrose Recording Studio in Richmond, Virginia.

All previous releases were drawn out over a relatively long period, while Continuum flowed organically for a surprisingly quick recording process. “Although the songs themselves came through and surfaced as life experience allowed, the studio time itself was quite focused (but) with breath! It was the environment and all involved that kept the creative doors open and the magic bouncing off the walls!” Michael recalls.

Continuum showcases Michael’s progression and limitless artistry for his love for the lap steel guitar. Seamlessly blending everything from rock, folk, Americana, and blues, with an ambient sensibility, listeners get a taste of a well-rounded album of intelligent variations. Precise melodic execution from his fine acoustic and lap steel delivery make Continuum a solid and infectious new release. Featuring special guest contributions from George Winston on lead single “Sanctum” and bassist JD Foster who has toured with Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, and Dwight Yoakam.

From intimate simplicity to soulful dynamics, this thirteen track, well-crafted, instrumental album exposes a passionate, mature artist setting his sights for the stars!

Michael Barry-Rec links: Website - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME® AND MUSEUM’S ALL FOR THE HALL FUNDRAISER RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES ON MARCH 4




Country Music Hall of Fame Members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Members Heart and Grammy Award-Winning Artist Jason Mraz Set to Perform at Club Nokia; Rita Wilson to Host the Event

Table Seating on Sale Now,
Balcony Tickets on Sale on Friday, January 31 at 10:00 a.m. PST

The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum’s All for the Hall fundraiser will return to Los Angeles for the first time in nearly three years.  The event, which will take place on Tuesday, March 4, at Club Nokia, will again follow a “guitar pull” format, featuring performances by Country Music Hall of Fame members Vince Gill and Emmylou Harris, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members Heart and Grammy Award-winning artist Jason Mraz.  Acclaimed actress/singer/film producer Rita Wilson will host the event.

The evening offers a unique opportunity to see these acclaimed singer-songwriters interact with one another as they take turns swapping songs, stories and personal recollections.  With Gill and Harris anchoring the lineup, new special guests each year ensure that the event is always one-of-a-kind; past participants include Jason Aldean, Gregg Allman, Zac Brown, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Patty Griffin, Levon Helm, Chris Isaak, Kris Kristofferson, Pat Monahan, Lionel Richie, Taylor Swift, Dwight Yoakam and more.

The “guitar pull” is a Nashville specialty; it originated in the homes of Nashville songwriters who gathered to try out new compositions for their peers.  Nashville’s most storied guitar pulls were hosted by Johnny and June Carter Cash.  The hallmarks of a great guitar pull are spontaneity and camaraderie.

The museum launched All for the Hall, its first-ever non-bricks-and-mortar fundraising campaign, in 2005.  The campaign addresses the museum’s need for long-term financial security and will provide a safety net for the institution and its work.  This is the seventh year the museum has taken its “annual giving” event on the road, hosting previous All for the Hall events in New York in 2007, 2008 and 2013, and in Los Angeles in 2009-11.

“California, with its rich country music history, has proven to be a supremely appropriate and welcoming location for this event,” said Museum Director Kyle Young.  “In fact, some of the state’s contributions to our genre are the subject of our very popular limited-engagement exhibition, The Bakersfield Sound:  Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and California Country, whose run we’ve extended through the end of 2014.  Los Angeles has always given our All for the Hall event a very warm welcome, and we look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones in March.”

Last year’s event, held at the Best Buy Theater in New York City, featured performances by Gill and Harris, Jason Aldean, Gregg Allman, Rodney Crowell, Ashley Monroe, Pat Monahan and Joan Osborne.  CMT’s Jim Allen wrote that “the evening was about the inspiration of the moment….Whether it was Gill digging into ‘Ring of Fire’ in honor of Johnny Cash’s birthday (joined by Harris and Crowell) or Aldean pitching in on both Allman’s ‘Midnight Rider’ and Monahan's Train smash ‘Drops of Jupiter,’ the artists were more concerned with following their noses than following a script.”

All for the Hall Los Angeles patrons are offered their choice of VIP tables of 10 for $25,000 or $10,000.  Individual VIP tickets are available at $1,000 per seat. At these ticket levels, a cocktail reception and dinner will precede the guitar pull.  A full list of VIP table and ticket levels and benefits can be found on countrymusichalloffame.org/afthla. To purchase tickets or for more information, patrons may contact Rachel Shapiro at rshapiro@countrymusichalloffame.org or telephone (615) 416-2069.

Additionally, tickets for balcony seating (for the performance only) will go on sale on Friday, January 31, at 10:00 a.m. PST.  Tickets, priced at $125, $95 $65 and $49.50, plus applicable fees, can be purchased via AXS.com or from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri. at the STAPLES Center Box Office. The box office is located at 1111 S. Figueroa Street. Also, the Club Nokia Box Office is open for sales beginning at 5 p.m. on show days only.

All for the Hall Los Angeles is chaired by BMI President and CEO Del Bryant and produced by CAA’s Rod Essig, Vector Management’s Ken Levitan and BMI’s Jody Williams. The event is made possible by the generosity of AEG Live and Club Nokia.


About the Performers

One of the industry’s most popular and most recorded singers, superstar Vince Gill is a triple threat known for his spellbinding vocals, emotionally powerful songwriting and world-class guitar-playing.  Gill achieved his big breakthrough with “When I Call Your Name,” which won the Country Music Association’s Single of the Year Award in 1990.  Since then, he has won 17 more CMA honors. Gill has received 20 Grammy Awards, sold more than 26 million albums, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007. He is also a member of the Grand Ole Opry and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  Additionally, he is a member of the Grammy-nominated the Time Jumpers; Rounder Records released the band’s first studio album last year.  Gill’s high, pure tenor voice and unerring sense of harmony have caused dozens of artists—from Reba McEntire to Dolly Parton—to embrace him as a duet partner.  Gill has established himself as one of the most successful guitarists of his generation.  Combining a deep knowledge of bluegrass and classic country with the fire of ’60s rock, Gill has earned a place next to his musical heroes.

Emmylou Harris is a 13-time Grammy winner and Billboard Century Award recipient whose career spans 40 years. She has recorded more than 25 albums and has lent her talents to countless fellow artists’ recordings. Elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008, she remains an inspiration to new generations of artists. Harris’ most recent album, a collaboration with Rodney Crowell, Old Yellow Moon, was released in 2013. In addition to music, Harris is a champion of many humanitarian causes, including landmine removal and animal rescue.

The 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Ann and Nancy Wilson and their band, Heart, have sold more than 35 million albums and become part of the soundtrack of American life.  The band stormed the charts in the ’70s with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” “Barracuda” and “Straight On,” and dominated the airwaves throughout the ’80s and early ’90s with smashes like “These Dreams,” “Alone,” “What About Love,” “Never” and more. The sisters have also achieved significant success as individuals:  Ann’s hits include “Almost Paradise” from Footloose and “Surrender to Me” from Tequila Sunrise, while Nancy composed and performed the scores to a half dozen motion pictures including the award-winning films Jerry Maguire and Almost Famous.  In September 2012, Ann and Nancy released their first-ever memoir (Kicking & Dreaming: A Story of Heart, Soul and Rock and Roll). 

Jason Mraz has quietly amassed a youthful, diverse and vibrant global fan-base. His critically acclaimed live performances have propelled him from the San Diego coffeehouse circuit to amphitheaters, arenas, festivals and stadiums all over the world.  Among other accolades, Mraz has won two major GRAMMY® Awards, a People’s Choice award and the Hal David Songwriter Hall Of Fame Award.  He is among the most gifted and beloved artists of the modern era, making pop history with his record-breaking single, “I’m Yours,” which remained on the Billboard 100 longer than any other song in history.  His releases have earned platinum and multi-platinum certifications in more than 20 countries. Moreover, the San Diego-based troubadour has proven a diverse creative presence, enjoying collaborations with Zac Brown, Crosby Stills & Nash, Hunter Hayes, Travie McCoy and others. A dedicated surfer, farmer-gardener, filmmaker and photographer, Mraz is first and foremost a committed global citizen. His impassioned social activism and philanthropic efforts span wide-ranging environmental advocacy and ardent support for LGBT equality.  His global activism includes participating in a rescue mission to Ghana with Free the Slaves, and an internationally broadcast live performance in Myanmar to 70,000 people to bring awareness to human trafficking with MTV Exit. Through it all, Mraz continually confirms and celebrates music’s myriad forms and miraculous power, inspiring and delighting fans around the world.

Rita Wilson is well known as an accomplished actress (Sleepless in SeattleIt’s Complicated) and film producer (My Big Fat Greek WeddingMamma Mia!), but few may be aware that her early show biz ambitions were actually musical.  Born and raised in the Hollywood Hills, Wilson harbored dreams of becoming a singer in the ’60s and ’70s after falling in love with the Beatles, the Supremes, the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt and Joni Mitchell, among many others.  Wilson achieved her dream in May of 2012 with the Decca Records release of her debut album, AM/FM, an intimate, elegant and beautifully sung collection of classics from the ’60s and ’70s that, taken together, make up the soundtrack to her life.  She chose songs for the album that resonated with her emotionally, achieving an album that is an extremely personal endeavor.    The New York Times called it a “charming, nostalgic throwback to the soft rock of Los Angeles” and Rolling Stone said Wilson “has an expressive denim and suede soprano.” 


About the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum is operated by the Country Music Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization chartered by the state of Tennessee in 1964. The museum’s mission is the preservation of the history of country and related vernacular music rooted in southern culture. With the same educational mission, the foundation also operates CMF Records, the museum’s Frist Library and Archive, CMF Press, Historic RCA Studio B and Hatch Show Print®.

For more information about All for the Hall Los Angeles, please visit:  http://countrymusichalloffame.org/afthla/.