FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. How Do I Become A Radio Announcer?
First you MUST have a desire to spread the Gospel... Then pick up several Trade Magazine and find out where you can obtain proper training... Join an Announcers Organization (such as this one), and don't be afraid to Network with other Announcers...
2. I'm a Local Gospel Artist, When Do I Know I'm Ready To Record?
You are ready to Record when God gives you the green-light. When you start to draw more people to your engagements - and folks ask where they can get your CD... It's all about Timing...
3. How Can I Know What Music Format (Traditional, Urban, Contemporary, Christian) To Play On My Radio Show?
Try to so a Survey of your Listening Audience (via Email, or Cold-Calling), but start with a Mix of Music - and let them decide. When all else fails, go with your Gut-Feeling...
4. I'm a Local Promoter, What Steps Do I Take To Book A Mainstream Artist?
First contact the Artist in question Management company or Record company. Find out what their fee would be for various events (Concert, Revival, Appearance), then base your ability to pay by what you currently have to offer - Not Your Estimated Ticket Sells.
5. Now That I Have My CD Done, How Do I Market It? When Should I Tour?
Online Marketing is the Best Way to go, get a MySpace or Facebook page and upload your music there. Contact Central South and/or iTune to try and get your product distributed by them, if all else fails - go to your Local Retailer and do a Consignment with them.
You should Tour when you have a good Local draw for Concert Appearance (First), then go to out of town events and make a name for yourself. Don't go looking for Compensation - but at least see if you can Sell your Product (for no more than $5.00 or $10.00). As your Popularity grows, so should your Requirements...
6. When Do I Know I Need A Manager? A Publicist? (What's the Difference?)
You need a Manager when you can handle your overload of Engagements and Request, after you hire them (average is 20% compensation) let them do their Job. Make sure they have your Ministry at heart.
You need a Publicist to keep you in the Public-Eye, by way of Flyers, Online Campagine, Appearances. They should be compensated by the level of projects they work on for You... A Manager - manages your Calendar/Dates/Contracts, A Publicist - keeps you in the Public-Eye, handles your Appearance to the Public...
7. Should I Pay To Have My CD Distributed?
Depends on the Level of your Project demands. Most Distribution Companies won't ask for an Up Front Payment, they make money when you make money... So beware of the snakes out there...
8. Is Online Distribution The Way To Go For An Independent Record Label/Artist?
YES!!! (CDBaby, Sonicbids, iTunea - are the best...)
9. I'm A Radio Announcer, Should I Charge To MC Events? If So, What's A Fair Amount?
Yes, you should be compensated for your time/efforts. The amount should be based on the event and if it is Ticketed or not...
10. Who Can I Get To Invest In My Ministry?
Investors come a dime a dozen, so the best thing to do is Research on the Internet for companies that are looking to Investing in Faith-base Businesses... They are out there...
