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30 Sep 08 - 10:46 PM (#2454415) Subject: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace Just to let you know that it has received airplay in the US, Canada, Germany, England, Australia and New Zealand. This is for info only. Just to thank y'all. Bruce |
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30 Sep 08 - 10:59 PM (#2454426) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,heric It's all you, man. |
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30 Sep 08 - 11:29 PM (#2454438) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Amos Hurray!! Well deserved, too. Delighted it is getting some exposure. A |
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01 Oct 08 - 04:57 AM (#2454533) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: rumanci Yes I'm delighted too at some well deserved recognition at last. I hope the sales now and long term into the future will also reflect the same acknowledgement and respect Bruce's way and to Ron Bankley for making it happen. Bruce may have just given some bare bones of information to us and I know he is very modest about his skills. In fact he may not even have realised himself one fact but I'll put things into perspective because there are others of us who are continually aware of radio plays worldwide or watching trends and appreciating broadcast skills and presenters who really KNOW their music and respect musicianship. There is not ONE track on Matters Of The Heart that HASN'T received airplay multiple times. THAT is phenomenal and very rare. Two words that sum up Bruce Murdoch too - though I guess many people could add a few more ! LOL rum |
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01 Oct 08 - 05:00 AM (#2454535) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jean(eanjay) Just to let you know that it has received airplay in the US, Canada, Germany, England, Australia and New Zealand. So it should, it's brilliant. Thank you too for writing and singing those songs. |
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01 Oct 08 - 05:03 AM (#2454538) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: John MacKenzie Good news my friend. Should I ask you for your autograph now, before the rush starts? XG |
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01 Oct 08 - 06:20 AM (#2454574) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Georgiansilver The thanks should all be going to you... without you it all wouldn't be happening. Best wishes, Mike. |
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01 Oct 08 - 06:24 AM (#2454576) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: jacqui.c Great news, and well deserved. That's good stuff! |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:03 AM (#2454588) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: gnu All of the above. Attaboy! |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:11 AM (#2454596) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: quokka Congrats from me too! Currently on high rotation in my car. Favourite is 'When I Cannot Sleep at Night' closely followed by Hotwired...then...damn I like 'em all. |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:45 AM (#2454623) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Beer Here is a good luck saying that I still don't understand. "Break a Leg" buddy. Talk to you soon. Adrien |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:51 AM (#2454627) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: bobad Good on ya Bruce, you deserve every success the album gets. |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:13 AM (#2454653) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: ragdall Bruce, Congratulations! I hope that the airplay will lead to further opportunities for you. We're very fortunate to be able to listen to your songs, they're top notch. Thank you for sharing your talents with us. rags |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:13 AM (#2454655) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Puzzled Why is this in the BS section? |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:17 AM (#2454660) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: John MacKenzie Oh no it's not :) |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:27 AM (#2454672) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: Mississippi Saxaphone Well done. Bomber |
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01 Oct 08 - 09:16 AM (#2454716) Subject: RE: BS: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,BW ~ Bruce's Webmaster We now have 'I Sit And Count The Stars' up, alongside 'I Can See You Now'. Bruce Murdoch ~ Myspace BW |
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01 Oct 08 - 09:35 AM (#2454729) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jeri Bruce's Webmaster (MySpace versus the webmaster of www.brucemurdoch.com?) I get about 16 seconds of it, which involves some silence, some guitar and one 'Oh baby'. I suppose you have to join MySpace to get the whole thing. (Not in this lifetime for me, but others might be interested.) Congratulations on the airplay, Bruce. |
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01 Oct 08 - 09:40 AM (#2454733) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: WFDU - Ron Olesko It is a GREAT CD - one of my favorites of the year - and I am honored to share it with my listeners! |
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01 Oct 08 - 10:07 AM (#2454762) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz Keep pushing that CD Bro... |
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01 Oct 08 - 10:27 AM (#2454783) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jayto Cool man it deserves it. You deserve it brother. I have been spreading the word the best I can. Keep us updated man cya JT |
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01 Oct 08 - 11:20 AM (#2454834) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Waddon Pete Excellent News Bruce, Best wishes, Peter |
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01 Oct 08 - 12:00 PM (#2454872) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,BW Jeri, sorry you're unable to hear the song in full. I've the page up now, whole track's played right through without a hitch. There's a short silence at the start of each track as it loads, quite normal for Myspace. There've been loadsa problems in there recently 'cos of new music players they've installed but it's being corrected, slowly. You should be able to view and hear Myspace clearly, regardless of whether you're a member or not. Anyone else having the same thing happen when they load the page? Meantime, I'm glad you're hearing the music clearly on the main site.(all power to 'old dude' for that.) |
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01 Oct 08 - 12:15 PM (#2454888) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jeri It's just my connection then. Thanks. |
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01 Oct 08 - 12:52 PM (#2454938) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: David C. Carter No problems with Myspace.Got the songs loud and clear. Beautiful.Loved the arrangements.Got to get the cd. Congrats. David |
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01 Oct 08 - 01:12 PM (#2454961) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Neil D Deservedly so. I hope this CD really takes off. I can objectively say this is the best new music I've heard in quite some time. |
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01 Oct 08 - 04:24 PM (#2455111) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley 'Also... radio CKVL Lasalle/Montreal will be playing some songs on it's Indie show Monday nights... Bruce Hynes is the director/dj This station has been on air for decades and pumps a lot of watts.. not sure about 'The Voice of America' yet, but 'Radio Free Vestibule' might play it if they ever stay put long enough to get mail... |
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01 Oct 08 - 05:44 PM (#2455171) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: topical tom Congratulations on a bang-up job, Bruce! |
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01 Oct 08 - 06:02 PM (#2455188) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: wysiwyg MotH-- is that Mott the Hoople? Oh. :~) ~S~ |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:25 PM (#2455246) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: LilyFestre No surprise there Brucie, your CD rocks! Just like YOU! Michelle |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:28 PM (#2455249) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Little Hawk Way to go, Bruce! |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:47 PM (#2455260) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley yeah but I'm having a hard time playing it on the gramaphone... |
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01 Oct 08 - 07:54 PM (#2455262) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bobad Ron, you need the digital to 78 RPM converter. |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:01 PM (#2455268) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley okay, and I got a sore arm from 'cranking it up' and the swans are all scratched.... |
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01 Oct 08 - 08:33 PM (#2455278) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Rapparee Hey, waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay cool! I didn't know you could speak New Zealandish, either. You got talents, man. |
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01 Oct 08 - 10:53 PM (#2455347) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: KenM Ron and Bob: Damn......the same thing happened to me in trying to convert the CD to 78rpm including messing up those pretty swans. More seriously, Bruce, I'm glad you have resurrected a conversation about the CD. It's worth keeping that conversation alive. Ken |
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02 Oct 08 - 12:37 AM (#2455401) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace I have been extremely busy and unable to keep in touch with people, many of whom posted here. Thank you all, again. Oneathesedays when I have a day, I'll write to each of you to say hi. But for now this is gonna have to do. |
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02 Oct 08 - 12:37 AM (#2455402) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Beer Here we have an opportunity like never before. I maybe stereo typing(sp.) but most Mudcatters I think are from the era of 78's and 45. In those day's we waited to hear what the radio stations would introduce us to, and many of time, it was great folk and rock and roll. Today we don't have to wait for the radio to play the music (though still very important.)for we have the technology at our finger tips(and if I knew how I would underline FINGER TIPS.) to make it heard around the world in minutes. What I see in both worlds (the old/new)is that the past method of radio stations is not the complete answer any more. Who here has purchased a c/d of Bruce Murdoch "Matter of The Heart" through the radio media? That is an important question. I believe that in today's marketing we should promote Bruce as much as possible through My Space, You Tube, MSN, e-mail,Face book,Google, FireFox and so on. Like it or not, the Internet has become a very important way of connecting. Bruce has just told us that his songs are being played on radio stations in the US, Canada, Germany, England, Australia and New Zealand. How did this happen so fast? My God, we even think it is slow. Most of the answers to this are here on mudcat. Five years ago I didn't know Sandy in Sydney,Amos,John in Scotland, Sakri in Iceland (sp.) Little Hawk, Bee and the list goes. Sorry for all the mis spelling of Handles., Hay!! as an example, check out this guy on My space. A great writer an just a kid in our (my) view starting out. If I can get him up next summer at our Festival it is a must. (JOE PUG) Good Night. Ad. |
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02 Oct 08 - 12:43 AM (#2455405) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Beer Sorry, meant Sandra in Sydney. |
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02 Oct 08 - 11:00 AM (#2455542) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz Hi Kids: 'Tis a strange world in terms of music distribution these days. Having worked for PolyGram in the era of Saturday Night Fever, Village People, etc. I can tell you that the best minds in the world are scratching their heads as to where this is all going. Bruce has many friends around the world that would like to see him hit the big time and get all the recognition that goes with it. He deserves that. However, the decision, the quarterbacking of this, should still be under Mr. B's control. Too many cooks spoil the broth. If we all "do our part" to "help" we might actually do more harm than good. I have taken it upon myself to help Bruce in terms of Marketing as this is my field. What I know is "safe"; eg. in the past few days, I've made contact with a DJ for Radio Caroline via MySpace. I then emailed Bruce's MySpace page to him so that he is made aware of Bruce's existence. I then emailed the DJ's MySpace to Bruce to let him know what I was doing. DID I SUGGEST THAT HE PLAY SOME MotH? NO. Why? Because pushing at that sensitive point would ANNOY the DJ. The mission was accomplished. Radio Caroline is now aware of Bruce. And Bruce is aware that RC knows him. This could be followed up by a CD being sent to Radio Caroline(which goes 'round the world). SO WHAT'S NEXT? Is there a budget for this? Is that part of what Bruce is doing on his own to promote the CD? NO. It is only an opportunity that MIGHT be explored SHOULD BRUCE WANT TO DO IT. You are building a relationship at this point. The danger here is replication. What if some of you through pure chance did the SAME thing? Made the same contact? The receiver starts to think "what kind of ORGANIZATION does this Bruce guy have?" They are tripping over themselves. THEY ARE AMATEURS. This is not good as it interferes with a project that has had valuable time and money being invested. Let's not kill it. I THINK the new direction of music distribution will be a blend between CD's and the new media.What's the IDEAL blend? I don't know... The Internet could work for or against your efforts depending upon how it is orchestrated. But, "I did a good thing" you might be thinking, or, "hey, I know all about advertising, I watch T.V. and my brother-in-law works for an agency, yada, yada, yada," Caution friends, caution. Right now, Bruce needs all the help he can get. Let's do it right... COMMUNICATION through a central point is the key, so that we don't trip over ourselves. It's Mr. BM's call... bob |
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02 Oct 08 - 11:07 AM (#2455550) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: beardedbruce Taking a copy to the Getaway... |
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02 Oct 08 - 11:29 AM (#2455582) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Azizi So, Bruce, besides purchasing your CD, and besides visiting your Internet website, your YouTube videos and your MySpace page, what is it that you want us to do? I guess the main point of Bob Ryszkiewicz's 02 Oct 08 - 11:00 AM post is that regardless of how it's done and regardless of how well meaning they are, folks shouldn't be contacting djs, radio stations etc about your music without your prior knowledge, consent, and approval, right? But to expand on Bob's comments about the need for orchestration and the need to have a central point of contact, Bruce, should folks get in touch with you if we any ideas regarding djs or radio stations who may be interested in your music? Or have you appointed a business manager or agent who folks should contact and that person would then contact you? |
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02 Oct 08 - 01:11 PM (#2455690) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Beer Your point is well taken Bob R. Were all here to help, and true if not coordinated correctly, it can do more harm than good. There is someone here that you should send a p.m. to but I guess you can't because you are a guest. And there are a lot of folk here that may want to contact you but can't except on this open forum. Why not join Bob and make it easier. |
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02 Oct 08 - 01:37 PM (#2455717) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz Hi Kids: I am not sure myself what BM wants to do, or if he even wants people to help. We have briefly discussed doing some Marketing when we last spoke, but nothing was solidified. When I was with PolyGram, the A&R guy was CONSTANTLY on the phone, working to get airplay for our latest releases... Anything that I have done so far is in the way of safe and simple introductions to Bruce's music via emails, no actual pushing...That way, I don't think that I have interfered with anything Bruce may be doing. It's kinda like, "have you heard this guy?" stuff, and not directly asking for airplay as if I was Bruce's Representative, which I'm not.. I have my own projects that I've invested considerable time and money on, so my focus is there. I'm just giving an old friend a helping hand whenever I can. I prefer to keep going as a guest, as I have much to do over here.. The most logical thing to do, I think, is to ask Bruce if he wants help. That we are there for him if he needs help. Then to keep him informed of any actions that we do... bob |
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02 Oct 08 - 06:34 PM (#2455936) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: meself I've been listening to Bruce's CD on and off for about a week now. Love it! Just wanted to say that ... |
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02 Oct 08 - 07:12 PM (#2455945) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley .... a year ago there was no plan... there were new songs and a long absence from recording... things fell into place through goodwill, trust, by being receptive to the creative process, and to that higher energy that keeps things real... it wasn't and ain't always easy but what an incredible opportunity for personal discovery and expression/expansion... strong voices need to be heard now more than ever... we're all participants in this here project, and of course we want it to do well... it already has so far by the looks of things... and the journey continues.... just wanted to say that..... thanx.. R. |
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02 Oct 08 - 07:26 PM (#2455951) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace Hi, all. Thank you for your questions, and yes I do need help, but . . . . FACT: CDs are dead as a way to make cash unless one has a distribution already set up. The DJs who have played songs were people I located through a DJ site. What I have found is that although many of the DJs who haven't played anything from MotH would, but an offer to 1) listen to Youtube or Myspace to see if they'd be interested and with a simple e-mail I'd send the CD was largely ignored other than by about eight DJs in addition to ones playing songs from it already 2) I conclude from that that a) they do not like it b) they didn't read the offer c) they didn't read the message I know better for example than to send a CD to a folk show that has never played a song with electric guitars in it. To waht effect? To give someone a CD that costs $10 after recording, production, replication and mailing charges? No way. Many people including some on this thread have been a great help. I mean a GREAT help. But to maybe elaborate on something Bob said, the music world has changed. The people in it know they need to sell CDs from the stage, but basically getting to the stage requires an agent, and as yet I have none. Also, the DJ site I go to has been wonderful, but they don't need me bugging them all the time. I have kept track of the DJs who DID play stuff, and it goes in the 'book' so I know who to send to when I get the next CD done. (And for them it will be two weeks before anyone else because they were kind to me in the first place. Hell, not every response is positive. Got one from a person who said, "I really like your music but I'm not looking for material to play just now." Yeah. Right. I think a few things: 1) Many people do NOT like the music. I understand that and am cool with it 2) Some don't do their homework. That's life, but it's now October and the CDs are $20 each for anyone on God's Earth. Period. Sounds like hardball, and some of you will think that's a stupid thing to do. So be it. But that's the way it is. Also, some folks may want to cut loose from me at this point because I intend to put a song on Youtube that will incur the wrath of many folks and will never get played on radio. It contains the stanza "Begone, begone you neocons Take these billionaires I have watched you from the moment of my birth; And I have seen the riches that You corporate sons of bitches have Stolen from the children of this Earth." I expect real flak from that, but IMO it's gotta be done. That will take me a month or so I expect. I do not at this point know what the repercussions will be from that. None if no one listens to it. Lots if people do. It's not about publicity, because the folks that song is going to try to go up against are lots 'bigger' than I'm ever gonna be. But I'd feel like cheap shit if I ignored the world economic situation and just pretended it didn't exist or that those bastards do not have an agenda. Besides, I have fought tougher guys than them and lost! For a while I received more help than I could use. Got to the point I couldn't keep up with what was happening because well-meaning people with great ideas wanted to go ahead with them and I was curt saying yes or no, because my e-mail volume was about fifty to seventy per day, and at least a dozen were things that required lengthy responses. That was when I asked the Web Mistress of Myspace to shut it down. I simply had too much to get done in a basic hour or two I had available on computer. My apologies to anyone who felt the least slighted. I need a day off. This has been over nines months for me and the numerous days and nights with just a few hours sleep have caught up with me. Talk later. Thank all of you for your words of encouragement, offers to help, and great suggestions. Bruce |
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02 Oct 08 - 07:36 PM (#2455955) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jeri I predict the song will be VERY popular. Of course some won't like it, but boy, do we ever need that more voices of social conscience these days. |
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02 Oct 08 - 08:15 PM (#2455993) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz Hi Kids: This I'll call, "The Situation"...7,000,000 bands on MySpace and counting. 10 hours of video PER SECOND being uploaded to YouTube. 700 Radio Stations required to even make a dent in what's required for an artist to get noticed after sending out a CD. Estimated 100,000,000 iPods sold as at 4-6 months ago. Negotiations under way re: DRM music, so that mp3's can be played on devices other than iPods...Zune breaking it's way into the marketplace. CD sales across the board? Questionable. Lehman Brothers & Wall Street. It's just like the old west out there right now, wild n' wooley... Read Chris Anderson's(Editor-in-Chief WIRED Magazine's} "The Long Tail" in which he outlines the new paradigm in Music Distribution. So how do you play this here game partner? It's an email by email, phone call by phone call battle where an artist must FIND his audience. The good news is that the audience CAN be found. Requirements? Time & Money & Persistence...Ya wanna play? bob |
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02 Oct 08 - 09:57 PM (#2456033) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley that's some kick-ass lyric BM. you got my support with it... 100% |
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03 Oct 08 - 12:08 AM (#2456100) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace Thanks, Ron. (I know where your heart is, and that maybe you wouldn't support it never once crossed my mind.) The lyrics need tweaking, but that's for later. Bob, I gotta say maybe he's right and maybe he isn't. Far as I am concerned, MySpace and Youtube are over-rated as promo devices. Nice and all that, but that's because the stuff is free to folks. Free is easy to get rid of. People want free. But I don't get 'free' at the supermarket or music store. No offense meant to you. When shit still requires e-mails and letters because so many 'people of influence' are too busy to even look (and I can understand that) at what's available for free, then them wanting a CD to play on a show just ain't in the cards. And, I have send stuff to three companies. Two fairly small (in a relative sense) and one fairly large. Not one of the three has bothered to respond. Not a kiss my ass, PFO, suck rocks--NOthing. So I suppose deplorable manners goes along with the business. (BTW, I was given permission by each of the companies to send them a CD.) In my world, it matters little how many loadings are taking place on Youtube or MySpace. They are successful because they are free. Not because they are good mechanisms for sales or exposure, imo. Of course, I could be wrong. |
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03 Oct 08 - 07:52 AM (#2456277) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: bankley I had a friend who was a really fine author, among many other things, he once wrote a 1200 page book/CD-Rom called 'The Encylopedia of Survival" and also 'Surviving Terrorism'... which became quite popular in places like Montana.. anyhow, he also wrote a lot of short stories and articles... some were published, in 'Hustler', (The World History of Hooking), 'Ladies Home Journal', 'Redbook' etc... great sense of humour... shortly before he died he showed me a folder of all the rejection letters that he rec'd from diverse companies and publishers.... over 120 in all... he intended to turn this material into yet another book.... he was truly funny... I learned a lot from him, mostly to just keep plugging away and not take it too personally.... oh yeah, this is the same man that was awarded the Meritorious Servive Medal by JFK for helping diffuse the Cuban missile crisis... another funny story...involving lots of Vodka, Marlboro smokes and Russian Officers.. The best place to sell CDs is still at gigs... so lots of luck with nailing down some quality 'live' work in the not too distant.. The cyber-tools are useful in that respect.... |
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03 Oct 08 - 08:59 AM (#2456339) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Rapparee Bruce, I thought you'd like to know that I put a copy of the CD in the Idaho Library Association's intellectual freedom auction yesterday. It brought USD 35.00. |
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03 Oct 08 - 09:05 AM (#2456341) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: maeve Wow! That's great, Rapaire. |
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03 Oct 08 - 09:11 AM (#2456346) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz Hi Kids: Yep...I think we are all taking our best guesses as to what the direction will be. But I believe that PERSISTENCE IS OMNIPOTENT. Personally my "emails sent count" is nearing 40,000...Nutsoid maybe. But that technique has gotten me airplay in over 80 countries. Stations ask ME if they can play my songs. And you know I only got 2 up right now. 10,700+ MySpace friends and 5050+ plays on YouTube. I KNOW that when I record more songs, I have the network to channel people into my digital distribution sites. Next goal, a film on "The Ghost..." and then, a real album. My old College friend, Ron McLarty("Memory of Running", "Art in America", "Traveller", "Sex in the City", "Spencer for Hire", etc.) had 9 novels and numerous plays written over a 38 year period. It wasn't until Stephen King saw "Memory of Running" that good stuff started to happen. Ron can now use money for toilet paper...Well almost...But he's hung in there for 38 YEARS...An overnight success! And Bruce, I agree witcha, some of the people in the industry are schpockoras...But there's a bunch of good hearts in there too...Ya just gotta find 'em. And a firefighter just keeps on keepin' on right? Go Bro Go...Every day above grass is a GOOD day! OOPS...It's 9A.M. and the Senorita just called to tell me she has a day off...So we're off to a Mexican restaurant downtown for some Tortilla Soup. And let me tell yas, she makes just the BEST coffee, from expresso! Life is good...bob |
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03 Oct 08 - 09:13 AM (#2456348) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Azizi Bruce, as you know,I'm neither a musician, nor a recording vocalist, nor do I aspire to be a musician or a performing vocalist. Furthermore, I have never held any paid or volunteer position in the music world or in the public relations field. I am "just" a person who likes various types of music. I am also a person with a curious mind who finds the subject of the changing world of marketing music interesting from an intellectual standpoint. And I'm a person who has a friend who is a singer songwriter, musician who I want to see do well in this business because he is my friend, and because I believe his music is very worthy of being heard by others. Bruce, I appreciate your response to my question about whether you had an agent or a business manager. But you didn't answer my question about what folks can do besides purchase your CD, and visit your YouTube clips, your website, and your MySpace page. From my position of being on the outside looking in at your quest to break into this business again, it seems to me that one thing that I and other well meaning people can do-and have done-is to continue to offer you encouragement to keep on keepin on. And it seems to me that another thing that well meaning folks who know you or who know of you can do-and I'm certain have done-is to offer you suggestions. Of course, you probably will,and probably should, discard 9/10s {oh okay, maybe 1/2} of the suggestions that I and other people make. But some of these suggestions may be helpful to you in the short or the long run. I'm sure that I don't need to remind you that you wrote this post in the Bruce Murdoch CD-Matter of the Heart thread that invited people to share any recommendations that they have about your MySpace page. My assumption is that you are also open to suggestions about your music in general or the way that you might further your goal of breaking into the music business again. And I fully recognize that it is your call to accept or reject any or all of suggestions that folks might make since this is your art and your life and your business and not ours. I gather from your comments that you don't have as much access to the Internet as you previously had. So perhaps this thread can serve as a one stop place for practical {business} or aesthetic suggestions for you-if Mudcat members or Mudcat guest have any such suggestions. And, Bruce, I'm certain that it won't suprise you to know that I have some suggestions for you. Following my suggestion about one purpose for this thread, here are four suggestions for your consideration: 1. Your feature for purchasing your CD is not prominently displayed on your MySpace page. Also, there's no way that a person can purchase individual songs, but I recognize that may be something that you might not be able to do at this time. ** 2. The instructions on your MySpace page for purchasing your CD lead to your website. Imo, those instruction aren't forceful enough and those instructions involve too many steps. In addition, imo, those steps for purchasing your CD work against your best interests {that is to say, your wallet}. Currently your instructions for purchasing your Matters of the Heart CD read: "If you wish to purchase a CD and do not have Paypal, simply e-mail me at: irishancestry{at}*gmail.com I will send you one. You can then send $20 via cheque or postal money order. Thank you. * the {at} is substitution for the email symbol -snip- First of all, imo, it seems to me that you are downplaying your product. Imo, these instructions are written in such a way that they imply that folks are doing you a big favor by purchasing one copy of your CD. Why for instance did you say "I will send you one" {CD}? It's possible that a person might want to purchase more than one CD, you know. It's not what you say but how you say it. It seems to me that this wording is another example of you being too modest about your music. Folks aren't doing you a favor when they purchase your CD. You have done them a favor and made the world a better place by writing and recording your songs. Secondly, you're receiving a request from folks {many of whom-I would assume-are unknown to you. Let us say three unknown people send you two separate emails requesting one CDs a piece. According to your instructions, you then have to pay the shipping and handling for those CDs, and then-when those unknown people receive your CD-you have to trust that they will send you the purchase price for those CDs. This is absolutely not good business practice. I would have liked to have seen some short reviews raving about the CD on that page, and then something like: Purchase Matter Of The Heart CDs! Send $20.00* for each CD to: irishancestry{at}*gmail.com "Matters of the Heart"- beautiful, heart warming music for all those who are in love or have loved. *Purchase price includes shipping and handling. Allow up to two weeks for receipt. -snip- Moving right along, suggestion #3 3. I'll repeat what I posted on that Bruce Murdoch CD-Matters of the Heart thread: It seems to me that your old songs could help push your new songs. I'd love it if you could feature one of your old songs {such as "Come Across To You"} and "Rough Night In Jericho"} on your website-perhaps one at a time, in rotating order. Although there is a write-up on your page that mentions your prior recordings, imo, the point that you previously recorded a number of wonderful songs, isn't as prominently featured as I think it should be on that page. And there's nowhere online where people can hear those great songs. Consequently, some people may reach the erroneous conclusion that you are just starting out as a singer/songwriter. Bruce, you have fans from the past who are longing to hear your songs again. I hope that there is some way that you can show that you recognise that you have written some songs twenty years ago or more that folks still want to hear today, and that new fans can appreciate if they had opportunities to hear them. It seems to me that you not acknowledging that people still love these songs shows that you don't care as much as you should about your fans, and also seems to me that you are acting like you're starting from stratch in music when you're not. ** 4. Finally, Bruce, your MySpace page has two photos about you in your firefighting role. One of those photos mentions a calendar. It seems to me that you are missing opportunities to do targeted marketing to firefighters/first responders throughout Canada, the USA, and elsewhere. It seems to me that-at the very least-the information about you in your role as firefighter needs to be better integrated {more prominently integrated?} on your MySpace page-and your website-and more information needs to be posted about that calendar. For instance, what is this calendar, who benefits from its purchase {is it the fire station that you volunteer with?} and how do folks purchase that calendar if they are so inclined to do so? It seems to me that a secondary benefit of promoting that calendar, and your role as a volunteer firefighter/first responder would be to promote your music. -snip- Again, I'm offering these suggestions to you knowing that you can take them or leave them. Regardless of your response, I wish you well. -Azizi |
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03 Oct 08 - 09:31 AM (#2456359) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: maeve Azizi- Some good ideas there. I especially like the suggested change for cd orders and your observation regarding the firefighter market. Everyone needs encouragement, yes. ************* If we do post ideas here for Bruce to see, and if his time is as constrained as it seems to be, perhaps we can keep points short and sweet. He can contact us if he wants more information. maeve |
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03 Oct 08 - 09:39 AM (#2456366) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: John MacKenzie OTH was always shorthand for 'Over the hill' when I were a lad, can't think what the M might stand for though? JM ¦¬] [It's BTW of a joke] |
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03 Oct 08 - 10:52 AM (#2456425) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Azizi maeve, I agree with your point, and recognize that it's difficult for me to make "short and sweet" comments. But it this case, I felt that I had to give some context to my comments. Also, among the left out words and other typing errors that I made in that post, there's one sentence that I'll take this opportunity to correct: "Let us say three unknown people send you three separate emails requesting one CDs a piece"... |
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03 Oct 08 - 11:16 AM (#2456437) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: olddude I don't know what the answer is, you are all over the web, the music is wonderful I don't get it. I have pushed it and pushed it. I don't understand this business, heck I don't understand much of anything anymore. Every day I hear country songs that are as far from country as a person can get, canned same old same old with carbon copy performers that all look like they were stamped out by a machine. Rap music stars like the country stars that all look the same , sound the same, act the same and have the same lyrics and music with one or two phrases changed. It is because this is what the music industry says we are suppose to like and the only type they offer us as listeners. Someone like you that is refreshing, has truly original compositions has to struggle. I don't get it I never will. If you turned your hat on backwards or wore a cut off jean jacket and cowboy hat or put on 200 lbs of jewelery and decided to give us exactly the same meal we have been eating for the last 20 years then it would burn on the shelf. It is all nuts you see ... But one thing I have learned in my life, it is impossible to keep talent in check, impossible. Talent will always rise to the top of the pile and no one has more than you. You know how I feel, you know there is nothing I wouldn't do for you. Keep plugging we will crack this egg I truly believe. |
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03 Oct 08 - 11:23 AM (#2456443) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: maeve LOL Azizi- Many of us who post here are word people. You should have seen all the examples and explanations I edited OUT of my post. :) You have some great ideas and a valuable perspective as well, with your non-music business background. I'm constantly reminding myself that Mudcatters aren't the only people reading what we say here. We hope the "right" pros are interested in searching online to learn more about MotH and its creator Bruce Murdoch. Your mileage and word count may vary. Best, maeve |
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03 Oct 08 - 02:09 PM (#2456577) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,BW I'm in full agreement with Azizi, about every single suggestion she has made. I'm also in full agreement with 'old dude', in that I too will do all I can, along with, I'm sure, every other poster to this thread, to help Bruce and his music get right back to where they belong. We're waiting on you, Boss. *grin* |
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03 Oct 08 - 02:18 PM (#2456586) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Jeri Probably the FIRST thing we can all do to help is give the guy a break and and not drain his energy. Not tell him he's behaving badly or give him things he NEEDS to do or even make him feel like he NEEDS to judge our ideas right now. No demands. Nobody 'hits the big time' by trying on their own, and even those with wanted agents, promoters and handlers fail more than they succeed. I'm positive that's not what Bruce wants anyway. He needs the right niche, an audience. Get enough people to buy his CDs so he makes enough money to take care of things and keep him doing music. Forget about the 'big...' ['scuse me] 'BIG TIME!!!' Dude also needs some Jujubes. And for your reading enjoyment, check out the 'Newsletter Essay' in Harvey Reid's Newsletter:
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04 Oct 08 - 12:05 AM (#2456872) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,bankley in TO " In these days of instant idols, last week's heroes are left along the way We're force-fed for our survival on cotton candy spun up and doled out each day So much energy invested in the shifty shady schemes While your attention is arrested, tested by some sand in the vaseline" the opening shot from 'Line' (Insurgent Sun) |
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04 Oct 08 - 12:38 AM (#2456881) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Peace I am grateful for the wonderful suggestions. However, under NO circumstance will I do a dog and pony show that incorporates being a firefighter. It is something I do and do gladly. I am just one of over 500,000 structure firefighters in North America. Lots of those guys and gals put it on the line to help others. I will NOT use that in terms of my music. And that is that. Period. This conversation has come up with three people on this thread. It was no yesterday, it is no today and it will be no tomorrow. Please do not be offended. But the answer is still no. If it comes up again I will request the thread be closed. In fact, I do so request. Would a clone please close this and I will not open any others about the CD or me. Thanks all and that's all. Bruce |
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04 Oct 08 - 01:11 AM (#2456886) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace "Purchase Matter Of The Heart CDs! Send $20.00* for each CD to: irishancestry{at}*gmail.com "Matters of the Heart"- beautiful, heart warming music for all those who are in love or have loved. *Purchase price includes shipping and handling. Allow up to two weeks for receipt." Darned good idea. Thanks, Azizi. |
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04 Oct 08 - 02:15 AM (#2456898) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Azizi You're welcome, Bruce. ** And Bruce, since I'm here, let me also say this: Either on this thread or another Mudcat thread which someone else may start and not me, I believe that it would be an interesting discussion to explore how singer/songwriters/musicians promote their songs without becoming a "dog and pony show". In other words, what actions and approaches would performers consider to rise or fall to the level of a "dog and pony show". It seems to me that a performer has to distinquish himself or herself from all the millions of other performers. It also seems to me that one of the reasons why great songs get lost and really bad songs become hits is because of the performer {or those who work for the performer} knows how to market not just the song, but himself or herself. It seems to me that if you're interested in just marketing your songs to other performers and not also being a singer/performer than you have to find a way to effectively market yourself/. It seems to me that just because a song is good or even great does not mean that the singer/songwriter will be noticed and heard and be successful. Think about successful singers, movie stars and other performers. Isn't there something about their life or life style or their interests that you know, and which attracts you to them or repels you from them? For instance, Bruce Springsteen has used his working class upbringing in New Jersey to help define him and his music in the public eyes and the public's heart. He advocates for the working class. And he and his band dress in a manner that reflects and reinforce this image. So what's wrong with that? Far be it for me to speak for the other two people who I don't know who suggested that you {or those who work for you in a paid or unpaid capacity adopt a purposeful strategy of distinguishing you from other singer/songwriters by calling attention to your role as a volunteer firefighter. But I can speak for myself. I would never suggest that you go out on stage or do photo ops with a firefighter suit on or with a fire helmet on, or with firetrucks in the background, or even with a red shirt on. I think that would be tacky dog and poney show, and a turn off from people who have a great deal of respect and admiration for firefighters. However, I do think that it would be a good marketing decision for you, Bruce Murdoch, {or others on your behalf and directed by you} to help define yourself in the public's mind as a person who is a firefighter. To repeat and expand one statement I've made on this thread before-It's not just what you do but how you do it and why you do it.. Imo, informing people that you are a firefigher can be effectively done in such a way that it does not take advantage of that role. And doing so the right way can help to distinguish you from other performers, and can help build good will for you which can carry over to your songs. Bruce, the Hinton Fire Department was listed among those persons you thanked in the acknowledgements notes on your Matters Of The Heart CD. Furthermore, I presume with your approval, your MySpace webmaster added two photos of you in your firefigher role. There was a caption under one of those photos that briefly referred to that photograph being part of a calendar. I stand by the suggestions that I made about this subject in my previous post to this thread. The bottom line is that I don't think that there is anything wrong with informing people about your role as a firefighter or helping to promote fire safety, or helping to promote that calendar which I understand would help promote that volunteer fire company. But again, as I've said before on this thread, this is your art, your business, and your life. If you don't consider this an acceptable use of your experiences, than that is your choice. After all, you are the one who will reap the benefits or live with the consequences of your actions and your inactions. Best wishes, Azizi |
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04 Oct 08 - 02:26 AM (#2456900) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Azizi Correction: It seems to me that if you're interested in just marketing your songs to other performers than it probably isn't as crucial for you to define yourself to & for the public {or whichever segments of the public are your target audiences}. But if your goal is to also be a successful singer/performer, it seems to me that you have to find a way to have a hook, that is to say, you have to find something or things that can be used to effectively define yourself to that public, and then effectively market yourself to those folks you have targeted. It seems to me that just because a song is good or even great does not mean that the singer/songwriter will be noticed and heard and be successful. |
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04 Oct 08 - 02:33 AM (#2456902) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: GUEST,Peace Thank you. NOW, would a clone PLEASE close this thread? Thank you to Mudcat and the many folks who have made suggestions and given me encouragement. |
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04 Oct 08 - 03:39 AM (#2456911) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: gnu What if they don't wanna close this thread? |
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04 Oct 08 - 04:27 AM (#2456926) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: John MacKenzie Don't blame you Bruce, your music has fuck all to do with what else you do in life. I hate the world's need to put people in a niche, why can't they let you be you, and me be me? Nope, they gotta say, 'Oh you're 66 you're an old man' or 'Oh you're a Scot and a singer, you must sing Scottish songs' When they got their own lives straightened out and perfect, then let them come back and start on yours or mine. Don't think we'll see them again do you? JM [angry] |
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04 Oct 08 - 04:41 AM (#2456931) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Big Al Whittle Bruce has a pet moth? Given birth to a moth? Bruce Murdoch...the lepidopterist of Alcatraz! |
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04 Oct 08 - 05:14 AM (#2456943) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: John MacKenzie Mothballs |
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04 Oct 08 - 05:18 AM (#2456945) Subject: RE: MotH--from Murdoch From: Peace I had many questions about that as a youth. My grandmother put them in a wooden chest to keep moths away. I was never ever able to determine how she got them. And having seen many moths, I wondered how they could fly at all with balls that outweighed the moth by several times. Bugs me to this day. Closed per request from Bruce Murdoch. -Joe Offer- |