Recording On a Shoestring Budget
Matt Bittman – Infuseon Productions/Sonar
Tattoo Detectives – Teggno Records
Vaggeli – Taurus & Vaggeli – Teggno Records
Matthew Leffler Schulman – Mobtown Studios
Robin Hodson – Pro Tools/M Audio

Tips on Choosing a Studio
What to look for when deciding where to record and what to expect from a recording studio. We will discuss everything from what an artist(s) should seek in a facility to what to expect from their engineer. Every studio runs differently but there are certain things artists should consider when choosing a place to record.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes
When choosing a studio there is a lot to acknowledge. We will discuss how to understand the rates that a studio gives you. Even though you might find a lower priced studio compared to others their may be costs down the line that an artist didn’t expect. We will talk about the mistakes that can be avoided and in the end save you money and also make sure your project has the proper turn around.
Preparation to Record
Once an artist(s) chooses a studio there is much they can do on their end to prepare. This can not only save money but also assure they produce the best project possible. How an artist(s) should prepare their instruments to record but how they should prepare mentally. It is a lot of hard work but we also want to recognize that it is also something fun!

Marketing Your Music – Revenue Streams
Dayna Ghiraldi – Big Picture Media
Michelle Rakshys – THE SYNDICATE
Kim Paris – Sinister Foxy Production
Winifred Chane – CMJ Network Inc
Steffen Franz – Independent Distribution Collective

Learn the most effective means of marketing your music- from myspace to print advertising to PR methods to promotional comps, this panel will explore which methods will work best for your label and artists.

Indie Labels
Christopher Cabott Esq.– Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick
Michelle Rakshys – THE SYNDICATE
Larry White – Invisible Records
Steffen Franz – Independent Distribution Collective
Mike Brown – Brake Fast Records

Today’s top independent labels are not only surviving but thriving. What are their secrets? Join them in a discussion about the state of the industry and what an Indy label needs to do in order to survive a cut-throat industry.

Licensing for Film/TV/Radio
Larry White – Invisible Records
Cynthia Blake Sanders – O B E R | K A L E R
Kurt Klaus Esq. – Entertainment ESQ
Christopher Cabott Esq.– Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick

TV, radio, film, ringtones, gaming, and licensing are present more now than ever. Industry professionals will discuss how to license music properly in order to maximize revenue potential. Learn about various licensing laws and contracts. A must see panel for every artist and label owner in the business.

Green Machine – Music’s Ecological Interests
Alterra Robinson – National Wildlife Federation/Turn The Tables
Scott Haapala – Attorney
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.
Andrew Lovett – WTMD

This year everyone was buzzing with environmental chatter and the music industry was no different! Artists are touring using only green methods and labels are now using biodegradable packaging. Music business initiatives in the environmental field are gaining traction, most notably in the touring and recording fields. The Industry is rallying around conservation efforts in an unprecedented way. Listen to some of the professionals leading this movement in an open forum.

Agents/Managers – Finding Your Best Fit
Maori Karmael Holmes – Black Lily Film Festival
Denise Melanson – AM Only
Larry White – Invisible Records
Kim Paris – Sinister Foxy Productions
Steffen Franz – Independent Distribution Collective

Having the right representation can make or break your mainstay in the industry so choosing the right manager is one of the most important career decisions an artist makes. Learn from Industry veterans about how to choose the manager that best suits your needs.

Navigating Independent Distribution For Bands
Steffen Frantz – Independent Distribution Collective
Christopher Cabott Esq.– Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick

A discussion of the process of securing distribution for an independent band
What is distribution: "creating demand" versus "facilitating access"
Timing for an independent release
Handling territorial rights
Advertising and promotion
Deciding between a straight distribution deal versus a Manufacturing & Distribution deal
cost management
Pitfalls to avoid

Navigating Independent Distribution For DJs
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.

Discuss the process of securing distribution for a DJ
What is distribution: "creating demand" versus "facilitating access"
Timing for an independent release
Handling territorial rights
Advertising and promotion
Deciding between a straight distribution deal versus a Manufacturing & Distribution deal
cost management
Pitfalls to avoid

Recording Techniques
Matt Bittman – Infuseon Productions/Sonar
Matthew Leffler Schulman – Mobtown Studios
Robin Hodson – Pro Tools/M Audio

Discuss the best scenario for recording your music. Is it live or is it...?

Remixing & Editing
Brian McTernan – Salad Days Studio
Robin Hodson – Pro Tools/M Audio

Interact with top producers, programmers and re-mixers doing what they do best. What should you charge for a remix? What is reasonable to pay for a remix? How do you decide whether or not to accept a remix offer? Learn dos and don’ts from the experts!

Podcasting/Webcasts
Richard Cruit – Xurban–nation.com

This panel will tackle the changes in how people are being exposed to music. Access, distribution and dissemination of both music and information, plus discuss the innovative advances in technology ushering in this dramatic shift that’s transforming the music and broadcast industry.

Networking for Success
Maori Karmael Holmes – Black Lily Film Festival
Sara Thurston – DJ / Boutique Owner
Winifred Chane – CMJ Network Inc
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.
Ravi &ndash Artistic Integrity

Think the music industry embodies the "It’s not what you know but, who you know" idea? Learn tips and strategies from industry veterans on how to network your way to success. Tap in to successful networking strategies from these networking divas.

Promo 101 – Getting Your Name/Show/Party/Business Out There!
Sara Thurston – DJ / Boutique Owner
Michelle Rakshys – THE SYNDICATE
Fiona Bloom – The Bloom Effect
Sam Gallant – The Creative Alliance

Ever wonder why Tom’s band always has a huge fan base there to see them play? Or why Dick’s party is always packed. And how does Jane sell all of those CDs? Well Spot would tell you, it’s all about marketing and promoting what it is you have to offer people! Join some of the big dogs of the industry as they discuss ways to promote, market and make your ventures successful.

Trend Setters
Maria Gonzales – Warner Bros Records
Sara Thurston – DJ / Boutique Owner
Winifred Chane – CMJ Network Inc
Ravi &ndash Artistic Integrity

Music, its artists and message permeate all aspects of modern culture from social undertones to politics and fashion. Partnerships between artists and products push the influence of cultural icons to an ever-greater reach thus contributing to and in many cases eclipsing, perhaps even circumventing, all traditional notions of what we call "artist development". This will cover various levels of sponsorship / partnership for your events, artist product endorsements and the cross pollination between Music, Fashion, Film, Television, and so much more...

Songwriting & Publishing – Copyrights
Kurt Klaus – Entertainment ESQ
Christopher Cabott Esq.– Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.
Cynthia Blake Sanders – O B E R | K A L E R

Make money off your music! Learn how to protect your songs, programs, and ideas effectively. What are the pros and cons of publishing under a label or independently? How do you make sure that your agency is recouping royalties? Can you copyright your songs years after the release date? This panel takes an in-depth look at copyright laws and publishing agreements.

The Airwaves – Radio Exposure
DJ Leko – Tharsis Records
Alan Freed – Independent Consultant and WorldSpace Satellite Radio
John Matthews – WTMD

Professionals from around the country evaluate radio as a vehicle for developing artists and audiences.
How are the current developments at broadcast, satellite and internet radio affecting radio’s ability to break artists and sell records? Once you get your record on the air, how do you keep it in rotation? How to draw & sustain listeners? This panel will also discuss the rapid changes in radio. The structural differences between terrestrial and satellite radio. Also, groundbreaking ideas and experiments in internet radio

48 Hour Film Festival
Rob Hatch

Funding Your Film
Maori Karmael Holmes – Black Lily Film Festival
Kurt Klaus – Entertainment ESQ

Have a great idea for a film but no budget? Expert suggestions from those that have come up with a way to realize your dream film without nightmare costs. How do you pay for your film? This is perhaps the most daunting and important question to every filmmaker, but there is no one clear answer. Come talk with producers, developers and grant-writers about the various ways you can find the money you need to make a movie. Find that funding, because the funding won't accidentally find you.

Rockstar Photo Opps & Oops
Walter Rowe – Rowe Images
Courtney Block – Block Design & Photography

The stage is set, the lights are on, the stars are ready to play and there you are with your camera rolling! Delight in the escapades both on & off the stage that these photographers have been witness to while capturing bands, DJs & fans on film

You Shoulda Been In Picture...
Stacey Arrington – Revolution Magazine
Courtney Block – Block Design & Photography
Stephanie Halmos – Free-lance Photographer
Walter Rowe – Rowe Images
Shantel Mitchell – Free-lance Photographer

Or at least in a good one! So often performers use snapshots taken by their friends & fans to promote themselves on their myspace page, their website or for interviews & promo pieces. And so often these pictures show as the amateur photographer which also shows as amateur for the performer. Professional photographers know how to work with concert lighting, low light conditions - as well as know how to use programs to enhance their work. Learn how having pictures taken by a professional photographer can transform your image into a professional one also.

Grace Under Pressure
Courtney Block – Block Design & Photography
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.

A candid discussion about the trials & tribulations of being a woman in the entertainment industry from maintaining your integrity to using your female wiles to getting things done!

Graphics Work
Courtney Block – Block Design & Photography
Jon Stapp – eyedesign

Sleek, streamlined & smooth or funky, chunky & hard? Which design is going to sell your album/CD, party or product? Discover the difference design can make for what you're selling in this discussion with cutting edge designers

Digital Distribution

Everything you ever wanted to know about where Digital Distribution stands today. This panel will explore every angle- legalities, exclusivities, recouping earnings, accounting, attracting labels, inventory, encoding, sound quality, etc. This is a not to be missed panel for every person working in the business today.

Digital Production 101
Tattoo Detectives – Teggno Records
Vaggeli – Taurus & Vaggeli – Teggno Records
Robin Hodson – Pro Tools/M Audio

A guide to making tracks in Apple Logic, Ableton Live, Propellerheads Reason and Pro Tools.

Social Media – Blogging Your Way to Fame
Fiona Bloom – The Bloom Effect

The phenomenon now known as blogging was little more than the writing of online diaries. Blogging is now changing the media world!
Experts agree that blogs are an effective tool for advertising and can be very successful as a means of self promotion.
Join veteran bloggers as they discuss what to blog about, how to catch people's attention through your blogs, where to place them and more.

Tour Smart
Martin Atkins
Why do some bands thrive on the road? They do the work, make contacts, promote themselves effectively, and create fans who will bring more people to their next show. The author of "Tour Smart" brings you solid information to take with you on tour.

Making Money Online
Jawar – Music Therapy 101 (MT 101)

JaWar, Author – Music Industry Connection Books, talks about the new music business record label & using tools to make money online while creating multiple streams of revenue in the music industry.

"Instant Guitarification"
Ravi – Artistic Integrity

Part 1: Live the Dream: Ravi truly does "live the dream." He'll take you vicariously to the stages of Madison Square Garden, David Letterman, Saturday Night Live, and even Washington, DC for a White House Christmas party! Then, venture into the big time studios where the hottest session players make the most memorable recordings. His story will inspire you and show you how to "live the dream" for yourself.
Part 2: Electric Guitarology: The dream begins with the music, and the music begins with the instrument. Ravi will walk you through the electric guitar world. Discover designs, bodies, electronics and other characteristics that differentiate one from another. Learn to evaluate which "axe" will work best for you, and how to get the best value for your money.
Part 3: Tonal Recall: Once armed with instruments, the fun really begins. Ravi will create and record songs using selected guitars and state-of-the-art home recording tools and techniques. Discover the power of stacking electric guitars in a multitrack recording and the finesse with which it can be done. Then, sit back and instantly recall the magic, wrapped up in a tapestry of tone.
Part 4: Test Drives: The proof is in the pudding, as they say. After Ravi's presentation, it's time for the audience to try these instruments on for size. Ravi will work with you personally to find the guitar that speaks your language. This individual attention and the opportunity to put the instrument through your own tests will make "Instant Guitarification" the beginning of a lifetime of musical gratification.

MyTVTreatment Development Workshop
Barbara Garshman – MyTVTreatment

Want to be successful in the TV/film business? Learn the skill set you must have to give you the competitive edge. Book time with former Director of Development, East Coast for NBC and five-time Emmy nominated producer and Emmy honored writer, Barbara J. Garshman. Learn how to "mine" your creativity to develop unique ideas that you can turn into industry standard treatments that will sell.

House Music... The Real Story
Jesse Saunders – Broken Records

The history and evolution of House and Electronic music.
This visually dynamic show includes 2 video projections working simultaneously together to create an unusual performance featuring the digital turntable mastery of JESSE SAUNDERS as he takes the audience and dance floor on a musical journey through the history to the present of HOUSE and Electronic Music. The show appeals to all demographics (18-64). House Music has been a part of our lives for more than 20 years. It’s influenced how we dance all over the world. That makes this unique show a sell-out in any venue. A never before experienced show that can’t be missed! It’s a LIVE DOCUMENTARY that the audience participates in and watches unfold before their very eyes. It’s educational and entertaining. A must see for anyone who loves to dance.
The timeline begins in the 1970’s and continue until present day. Utilizes the story from Jesse Saunders:rsquo; book "House Music...The Real Story" as the reference.

Maintaining Artistic Integrity while Running Your Career as a Business
Ravi – Artistic Integrity

We live in a world of diminishing integrity. Capitalism has spun out of control and is turning us into a lowest common denominator society. The artistic community is caught in the tide with not enough of us swimming upstream. Society no longer recognizes true value.
We can change that.
Decreasing appreciation for the arts (and fewer schools teaching art and music) is grossly affecting our well being as a society. We Artists potentially have an equal voice to Corporate America, and therefore a huge opportunity and responsibility to the public at large. If Corporate America recognizes social responsibility and we embrace the opportunity to educate by breaking new artistic ground, Society will once again recognize true value and everyone can live in a "Culture of Integrity."
We have the gift to create, inspire, and shape the world through our work. Corporate America (I include the government) relies on rhetoric. No one should tell the public how to think, but Artists can provide colorful canvases or musical vibrations that inspire free minded people to think for themselves and rediscover what truly drives their happiness.
The dilemma lies in Maintaining Artistic Integrity while Running Your Career as a Business." As impossible as it seems, it is more attainable now than ever before. Many big businesses are imploding (particularly in the music industry), creating a vortex in which we can rise and actually prosper while having a positive effect on society. That's where integrity comes in - if we remain honest with the audience and true to ourselves, we are doing society a great service. We can educate and inspire the public to reach new cultural heights.

The Love Below – The Rise of independent Hip Hop
Hired Gun – Mikal Lee

A brief historical timeline from 1996-2008
The talk/seminar/roundtable will briefly highlight the climate of the music industry, the country and explain the phenomenon behind the fracture in Hip Hop once it went Mainstream. Looking at the growing popularity of the genre, coupled with key legislation and the onset of new technologies, the conditions were ripe for the culture to move in a new direction and turn in on it self resulting in the establishment of boutique, DIY record labels, and media sources that would largely exist outside of the mainstream circuit of the music.
As the mass commercialization and mainstreaming of the music occurred, independent hip hop rose as an answer and counterbalance to it. This resulted in a more diverse experimental and at times nostalgic sound. Hired Gun explores briefly the key players and factors involved in the creation of "independent" labels such as Project Blowed, SoleSides (now Quannum), Definitive Jux, Rawkus, Fondle'em and Stones Throw. Through this lens, we will look at some of the careers of individuals such as Slug of Atmosphere, BlackStar, Aceyalone, EL-P and others. From here we ask the question, where are we now? where do we go? and what potentially is the future of independent hip hop music?

Pro Tools
Robin Hodson from Pro Tools/M-Audio/Avid Education presents an intro class to using Pro Tools for the songwriter, the project studio owner and for the technically challenged!
The session features Pro Tools LE with M-Box hardware, and Robin will show how to get started with loops, recording, mixing, audio, MIDI and working with film/video.
Bring your questions!

Songwriters
Tattoo Detectives
Private Nation

Women in Entertainment
Presented with:
WIM (Women In Music – NY Chapter)
Ayodele Vassall-Gore, Esq. - The Vassall-Gore Law Firm, P.C.

Producers

Gurus of the Biz

Mentoring Session
One on One sessions with the above speakers held during the course of The Sessions. Availability depends on the schedule of each individual speaker and will be on a first come, first served basis.

Martin Atkins


Martin Atkins has drummed with PiL, Killing Joke, Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, Pigface, and The Damage Manual, among others. As owner of the now 20-year old Invisible Records he has worked with artists such as Thrill Kill Kult, Einsturzende Neubauten, Chemlab, Chris Connelly, Sheep On Drugs, Murder Inc, Psychic TV, etc. He owns Mattress Factory Studios in Chicago, that has been home to Pigface, Rx (featuring Ogre from Skinny Puppy), Meg Lee Chin, The Damage Manual, Murder Inc, Jared Louche of Chemlab, H3llbent, Bile, Gravity Kills, Sheep on Drugs, and much, much more.
His first exposure as a drummer was with John Lydon's post-Sex Pistols band, Public Image Ltd.. Atkins joined in 1979, just in time to contribute to the song "Bad Baby," on the album Metal Box. Atkins' first live show with PiL was recorded and released as the classic live album Paris Au Printemps. His first year with the band included appearances on The John Peel Sessions for the BBC, American Bandstand and the BBC's live "Old Grey Whistle Test." In 1980, Atkins left Public Image Ltd. to concentrate on his band Brian Brain with Pete Jones (who also played with Public Image Ltd. in 82-83) on bass and Bobby Surgeoner on guitar. Brian Brain released six singles and one LP on Secret Records [1], and continued to release singles and LPs on Atkins' own Plaid Records throughout the 1980s. The band had had a minor indie chart hit in 1980 with "They've Got Me In The Bottle" (#39),[1] and club hits with the singles "Jive Jive" (1981) and "Funky Zoo" (1982). Atkins rejoined Public Image Ltd. in 1981 to contribute to Flowers of Romance and, later, produced and co-wrote the album This is What You Want......This Is What You Get. Atkins eventually left PiL for the last time in 1985. He formed his industrial supergroup, Pigface, during a Ministry tour in 1989–1990.
Over the next decade, he performed with many bands, including Ministry. The dual-drummer assault of Atkins and Bill Rieflin (currently with R.E.M.) is captured on the live album/video In Case You Didn't Feel Like Showing Up. Atkins joined Killing Joke performing on 1990s Extremeties, Dirt, and Other Repressed Emotions - hailed as a return to form for the legendary band. He also managed the band for that time and designed their live show scenery and some merchandise. Atkins formed Murder, Inc., a new band featuring Geordie Walker, Paul Raven and Chris Connelly, in 1992. During this time he is credited as being an honorary Revolting Cock and performed with Nine Inch Nails in the "Head Like A Hole" video and is credited alongside Chris Vrenna for performing extra drums on "Wish" and "Gave Up," tracks two and six of the Broken EP. In between creating albums and touring with his band Pigface he also began The Damage Manual, which combined the drum and bass feel of early PiL bass player Jah Wobble with Atkins' signature beats and production. Geordie Walker from Killing Joke and Chris Connelly were also part of the project.
Atkins produced and released a collaborative album with Skinny Puppy's Nivek Ogre, his first project outside of Skinny Puppy, under the moniker Rx. The resulting album was entitled Bedside Toxicology.
In October of 2006, Atkins visited Beijing, China in order to discover the emerging Chinese music scene. During his stay, Atkins recorded and signed a handful of Chinese bands to Invisible and recorded material for a new Pigface album.
Atkins is currently teaching his fourth year at Columbia College in Chicago where he instructs the course "The Business of Touring." He is also an active guest lecturer, speaking at such institutions as the University of Southern California and the Midi School in Beijing, China. As announced via interview on the music website Soundsect.com, Atkins plans to take his lecturing further by eventually opening a school of his own.
Atkins has written what he calls, "the first real book on touring." The book Tour:Smart, features contributions from Henry Rollins, Cynthia Plastercaster, The Enigma, the Suicide Girls, Zim Zum (formerly of Marilyn Manson), Kevin Lyman, and various other managers, journalists, venues, agents, sponsors, radio personalities and the like. He is currently in the studio working on a new album with The Countdown, Pigface's sixth studio album, The Religion of Marketing retrospective gallery show, and various other projects.
Atkins was the feature of the Documentary Film "Free For All" that focused on Pigface's Free For All tour.
Tour: Smart
Invisible Records
3319 S. Lituanica Ave
Chicago, IL 60608
www.myspace.com/martinatkins

Carol Bidault del'Isle
Carol Bidault de l'Isle is an international motion picture and television senior consultant, specializing in media asset acquisitions & management, financing and distribution. She brings with her 30 years of industry experience in the United States, Europe and Latin America. Her recent clients have included: European Union's MEDIA program, MEDIA Salles (Italy), Washington, DC Independent Film Festival & Market, Latin American Film Conference (Organization of American States), World Bank, Cine Latino; the Washington, DC Center of the Moving Image (DC Film Center); and is currently the lead researcher on the Cultural Industries and an Economic Impact Study of the Audiovisual Sector in Latin America. Ms. Bidault began her career in script development working for the major film studios - Columbia, MGM and Paramount in Los Angeles. She then worked with renowned independent producers and filmmakers, such as Dino de Laurentiis, Federico Fellini and Sergio Leone; and then branched into distribution and international sales for Vestron, New World and Lorimar Studios. In 1988, she moved to Paris, France where she worked as a finance and distribution consultant for the European Union/France MEDIA Program for 7 years, responsible for over the gap financing of over 100 productions in Europe. In early 1995, she was hired as an Acquisition consultant by France Telecom in New York to work on a $1Billion merger. In September of that year, she moved to Washington, DC where she was hired as a Media Asset Management consultant by Discovery Communications to manage their companywide media asset evaluation and distribution for 5 years. In 2000, she left DCI and founded MediaFusion, which spawned such programs as: Cultural Assets; Washington, DC Independent Film Festival; Washington, DC Film Market; Cine Latino; Mid-Atlantic Regional Showcase (MARS) and currently is presiding over the capital campaign for the Washington, DC Center of the Moving Image (DC Film Center).. She also produces seminars and conferences: Annual Roundtable on International Film Distribution (Washington, DC); Washington, DC Independent Film Festival Seminars; International, National and Regional Advocacy Forums for industry professionals; and others. Born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Ms. Bidault grew up in Los Angeles, graduating high school from Westlake School for Girls; earned her Bachelor's degree from UCLA in Political Science, performed research for her Master's degree in Paris at l'Institut des Etudes Politiques and La Sorbonne IV. She is fluent in four languages: English, French, Spanish and Italian. Ms. Bidault is a co-founding member of Women in Film International, Co-Founder of Women in Film (France), a member of Women in Film & Video – Washington, DC, and a former board member of "Les Anciens de Science Po" in Washington, DC Ms. Bidault is a recipient of the US Department of State/ Secretary's Open Forum for Outstanding Contribution to international cultural affairs and support to media arts (2002); Reatig Award/Rosebud Film Festival for Outstanding Service & Contribution to the Washington, DC; Maryland and Virginia film and video community, as well as other awards and recognition in the area of film.
MediaFusion
Executive Director/Founder, Washington, DC Independent Film Festival
www.dciff.org

Matt Bittman


With a severe addiction to music and as a slave to all things digital, Matt produces rock and hip-hop albums and mixes anything that makes sound in his state-of-the-art recording studio in Sykesville. He's also the resident sound engineer for the biggest and busiest live music venue in Baltimore, Club Sonar. Some of the artists he's had the pleasure of working with include 311, Hoobastank, Hinder, Dave Navarro, Earth Crisis, BT, Thomas Dolby, Method Man, Raekwon, GZA, RZA, Ghostface Killa, Inspectah Deck, Social Distortion, Live, Three Days Grace, Rakim, Slick Rick, Boot Camp Click, GWAR, Ministry, Reel Big Fish, The Revolting Cocks, Hawthorne Heights, She Wants Revenge, Yellowman, Buju Banton, Israel Vibration, Jah Works, Ryan Adams, Pete Yorn, and many, many others. When not doing the music thing (which is hardly ever) you can find him at the movies, at the beach, playing with his dog or carving up some twisties on a sportbike.
Infuseon Productions
Myspace

Courtney Block


Courtney Block has owned Block Design & Photography for 17 years and been in the graphic design business for 23. Additionally, she taught graphic design as an adjunct instructor at Shepherd University and obtained a Masters degree in Marketing from The Johns Hopkins University. With one foot in the creative arts and the other in the business community, Courtney has managed to strike a balance between these two disparate worlds.
Her involvement with music began at age 10 when she learned to play the violin. Four more instruments followed before she switched to a life dedicated to the visual arts. Not one to sit still, she did music promotion and catering after her "9-5" with DJ Scott Henry in the first few years of Baltimore's rave scene. At some point, she gravitated back to live music venues, and is often out several times a week with her camera photographing a local or national band. Her goal is to continue to use her business and organizational skills, blended with creativity, to help local musicians reach their full potential.
Block Design & Photography
2953 Keswick Road
Baltimore, MD 21211
Myspace

Christopher Cabott


Christopher J. Cabott, Esquire is an entertainment, sports and media attorney and certified National Football League player agent with the Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick and Zane Management, Inc. He received his B.A. from La Salle University in 2001 and his J.D. from Widener University School of Law in 2005.
Attorney Cabott represents a variety of individuals and entities in the music, film, television, media, literary, theater, licensing, fashion and sports industries. With specific attention to music, some of the clients he has originated with the firm include songwriter Robert Allen – co–writer of Chris Brown's "Forever" and Rihanna's "Disturbia", Jojo Brim – Managing Member of Couture Music, LLC and Executive A&R to Kevin Liles of Warner Music Group, gold award-winning songwriter and recording artist Neesh, producer Dilemma of Waist Deep fame, BET's 106th and Park champion R&B group T.Y.M, Austin based but nationally known rock–band Full Service, the current independent buzz leader in country music Mason County, Los Angeles based music library Baby G Publishing, and multi–platinum, Grammy award winning producer and engineer Ken Lewis. Attorney Cabott is the co–founder of the Zane Management Entertainment Workshop series, which teaches entrepreneurs the business and legal aspects of the entertainment industry in association with representatives from G-Unit Records, Atlantic Records, Warner Music Group, Koch Entertainment and MTV. Mr. Cabott also consults to Playboy Magazine on sports and entertainment shoots for its fashion editorials.
Mr. Cabott writes two music industry columns – one, in Foundation Magazine, and a second in Unsigned Magazine. He is also a regular contributor to Philadelphia Lawyer Magazine and is the co–author of Keeping Out the Little Guy: An Older Contract Advisor's Concern, a Younger Contract Advisor's Lament, 12 Vill. Sports & Ent. L.J. 1.
Mr. Cabott is a member of the Widener University School of Law Alumni Board of Directors, American Bar Association Forum on Entertainment and Sports Law, and Sports Lawyers Association. He is also an adjunct professor at York College, where he teaches Music Law, and an adjunct instructor at Temple University, where he teaches Sports Law.
While in law school, Mr. Cabott captained the winning team at the 2005 National Sports Law Moot Court Competition in New Orleans, Louisiana and was named the competition's Outstanding Oral Advocate.
Law Office of Lloyd Z. Remick
One Liberty Place
1650 Market Street, 56th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 575-3820
www.zanemanagement.com

Winifred W. Chane
Marketing Director
CMJ Network Inc.
151 W. 25th St. / 12th Floor
New York, NY 10001
www.cmj.com

Steffen Franz


Stand Out Selector, aka Steffen Franz is well known as a dancehall innovator. As a DJ/Producer/Remixer and the owner of PSM Recordings,he has been bringing his conscious reggae vibes to throngs of people from New York to the Hawaiian islands (and San Francisco in between). A New York City native, SOS moved to Maui, Hawaii in 1991, where he broke the freshest dancehall tracks to scores of local people, as well as tourists from around the globe, at Studio 505, a nightclub co-owned by Stephen Stills. During that time he also managed and produced Marty Dread & Culture Shock, easily the most popular reggae band in the islands.

July of 1993 brought him to San Francisco, after spending the previous six months commuting back and forth between California & Maui, making connections and playing in such venues as Miss Pearl's Jam House & The Kennel Club among others. It was these connections that made the July move possible. Together with former partner Stefan G. (renowned video/multimedia specialist), Positive Sound Massive a brand new concept in global sound systems, was formed. PSM, as a sound system, features an array of international vocalists, rappers, toasters and musicians, along with rapper Wookie J., whom SOS imported from Maui.

In the Late 1990's, SOS DJed at hundreds of shows throughout California, Nevada, Washington, New York and even in Australia & New Zealand, where he played opening and break sets for the Beastie Boys "Hello Nasty" World Tour. He has produced dozens of multi-artist stage shows and the Nicodemus "Dancehall Giant Tour", as well as the Rocker-T "If Yu Luv Luv, Show Ya Luv" tour featuring Shinehead and Sleepy Wonder. He has remixed tracks for artists such as: Barrington Levy "Work" (MCA), Capleton "Wings of the Morning" (DefJam/RAL), Beenie Man "Tear off Mi Garment" (Island JA); as well as produced tracks for artists such as Nicodemus, Shinehead, Ras Michael, Barrington Levy, Rocker-T, Jamalski, Wookie J., Karney, DJ Collage, and SF local hip hop group New Dealers.

Since forming PSM, SOS worked as Reggae Buyer for Rough Trade Records in San Francisco, and as Reggae Editor for American Music Press, a bay area music monthly. From 1994 through 1998, Steffen was the Production Manager for the Paradise Lounge and Transmission Theater in San Francisco and still found time to write and review for independent publications. Since leaving The Paradise Lounge in the summer of 1998,he has tour managed Mix Master Mike, traveling the globe on both of Mike's solo tours as well as with the Beastie Boys.
SOS also fronts an alternative rock group called Crocodile Tears, plays bass in a Stoner Rock band called Not For Not, as well as is a member of "biL" a dancehall, surf, hip hop, who-knows-what else conglomeration of excellence.

For the past few years SOS has been running a small management company as well, called Positive Sound Management. PSManagement currently represents Rocker–T, Poetz4Peace, Haji Mike, Cas Lucas, Ian Collins, and Karney, exclusively and has been consulting with a number of other well known and up and coming artists. Look for an ever expanding stable of artists and bands in the years ahead.

Other recent developments include launching Independent Distribution Collective in 2004 and growing the company from 9 labels to over 200 releases in just 3 years. In addition to launching a physical distribution company, which now includes both Digital Distribution and Film and DVD distribution, SOS has also developed services like "InstantDistro" and "A La Carte Management" which will both help forward the music community and educate a whole new crop of up and coming artists.

Other recent studio works include production for over a dozen artists and bands these past few years. Production and Engineering credits include: Nuffsed "Ignite the Fuse", Rastrillos "Se Acabo El Reve", Haji Mike "The Storyman", Jahson Ites "Forward Outta Babylon", and new releases from Bhi Bhiman and Lou Dog Trio.

Steffen also teaches Music Business 101, 110 and 301@ Pyramind/ The Institute for Advanced Digital Audio Training in San Francisco.
STAND OUT SELECTOR – DISCOGRAPHY
1992
"Wicked Wahine" - Marty Dread and Culture Shock (Five Corners Music) Co-Producer

1993
"Work" Hip-Hop and House Versions - Barrington Levy (MCA Records) Remixer
"Sex & Guns" b/w "Unity" - PSM (PSM Records) Co-Producer, Artist

1994
"Bluevisions: The Solo Series" - Various Artists (RCA/Bluevision) Co-Producer
"No Bow Down" - Ras Michael (PSM Recordings) Producer

1995
"Wings of the Morning" - Capleton feat Method Man (Def Jam/RAL) Remixer

1996
"Tear off Mi Garment" - Beenie Man (Island JA) Remixer

1997
"Time's Up" - Various Artists (PSM Recordings) Producer, Artist
"Jah Everlasting/True Freedom Fighters" - Rocker-T./Jamalski (PSM) Producer
"Girl's Pet" - Nicodemus (Kulcha Shok Muzik) Co-Producer
"Under 16-Time Is Serious Mix" - Barrington Levy (KSM) Co-Producer
"Race To The Sun" - New Dealers (Dila Productions) Remixer

1998
"Magic Thumper-6 Song EP" - biL (bathed in Light) Co-Producer/Co-Composer
"Urban Reggae Vibes: Reggae, Dub, Ska" Sonoton Music Producer/Composer

1999
"Best New Album" - New Dealers (Dila Productions) Producer
"Smell My Favorite" "Hot Wheels"- biL (EA Sports) Co-Composer/Producer
"Tru Ganjaman EP" - Rocker-T (PSM Recordings) Co-Composer/Producer
"If Yu Luv Luv, Show Ya Luv" - Rocker-T (PSM) Co-Composer/Producer

2000
"Mi Selecta" - Various Artists (PSM Recordings) Composer/Producer
"Riddim Please" - Positive Sound Massive (PSM Recordings) Composer/Producer
"Cyber Supplement" - Various Artists (PSM Recordings) Co-Producer
"Prophets of the Most High" - Rocker-T (PSM Recordings) Co-Composer/Producer

2001
"Western Edition" - Various Artists (in process) (PSM) Composer/Producer
"Shellshok Girl" SOS Remix - Karney (Tangent Records) Co-Composer/Remixer
"Magic Thumper" - biL (PSM Recordings) Co-Producer/Co-Composer, Artist

2002
"A New Day Dawning" EP - Poetz4Peace (Olive Tree Music) Co-Composer/Producer
"More Luv" - Rocker-T (PSM Recordings) Co-Composer/Co-Producer
"My Little Bush" 7" - Karney feat DJ SOS (PSM) Co-Composer/Co-Producer/Artist

2003
"Retrospect" EP - Rocker-T (Conquering Lion Soundz/PSM) Co-Composer/Producer
"It's My Life" EP - El Rock (First Class Noiz) Producer
"A Pair of Olive Leaves" - Poetz4Peace (Olive Tree Music) Composer/Producer/Artist

2004
"Standout's Beat Sampler" - 60 Various Instrumentals - Composer/Producer
"Cyprus Thing Vol. 1" - Various Artists (Olive Tree Music) Composer/Producer

2005
"Ignite the Fuse" - Nuffsed (Best Coast Records) - Producer/Engineer
"Se Acabo El Reve" - Rastrillos (P Y P Records) Producer/Engineer
"The StoryMan" - Haji Mike (Olive Tree Music) - Composer/Producer/Engineer
"Music Is Joy" - Various Artists (Olive Tree Music) - Composer/Producer
"American Rasta" 12" Remix - Version (New Blues Musik) - Remixer/Producer

2006
"Judgement Day" - Bill Ortiz (Tangent Records) - Co- Producer
"Not For Not 6 Song EP" - Not For Not (Independent) - Producer /Artist

2007
"Forward Outta Babylon" - Jahson Ites (Sick Donkey) - Composer, Engineer, Producer
"The Cookbook" - Bhi Bhiman (Independent) - Engineer, Co-Producer
"Runt of the Litter" EP - Lou Dog Trio (Independent) - Engineer, Producer

2008
"Sick Donkey Standing Firm Riddim Compilation" Various Artists – Engineer, Producer
Artists including; Prezident Brown, Chezidek, Ras Attitude, Ras Indio, Wisdom, and many more

Independent Distribution Collective
880 Folsom Street
San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA
415 292-7007 office
415 292-5007 fax
"Independent Music Moving Forward"
www.independentdistro.com

Alan Freed


Dance Music Consultant Alan Freed brings to the table a unique combination of over 20 years of dance music specialty and broadcasting/webcasting.
Alan's background includes three years at XM Radio's dance channels BPM, The Move and Chrome as Music Director and Air Talent, during which XM added 6.5 million subscribers and BPM was awarded "Best Satellite Channel" at the Winter Music Conference's International Dance Music Awards in 2004 and 2005. His Beat Radio Network was carried in 10 top-25 U.S. cities in 1998 and he managed daily operations for the web debut of Swedish Egil's grooveradio.com in 2000-2001 as Operations Director and Air Talent. In addition to radio and Internet broadcasting, Alan has also played as a club DJ, appeared on-camera as an over-the-air TV VJ, worked music retail and written as a music trade journalist.
Alan currently consults Silver Spring-based WorldSpace Satellite Radio. Independent Consultant and WorldSpace Satellite Radio
PO Box 73271
Washington DC 20056
Myspace

Barbara Garshman
Barbara Garshman has been in the entertainment business for over twenty-five years as a developer, producer and writer. As former Director of Prime Time Development, East Coast for NBC, she helped develop the mini-series as a new dramatic form with the critically acclaimed Bestseller Miniseries, presenting over one hundred hours of on air programming, as well as movies-of-the-week, sitcoms and dramatic series.
She is a five-time Emmy nominee for her work as Supervising Producer on the soap opera Guiding Light, on CBS, and has been honored for "her contributions to the Emmy Award-winning Achievement for Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team," as an Associate Writer for the same show.
Two of her own projects: a narrative non-fiction book entitled, Breakthrough: Sharecropper's Daughter/Top Cop vs. Town from Hell, and Connections – a treatment for a one hour dramatic series, are in development for TV.
She also runs a successful consulting business for authors and script writers.

www.mytvtreatment.com

Dayna Ghiraldi
Big Picture Media
375 South End Ave
Suite #31F
New York, NY 10280
Big Picture Media

Maria Gonzales
Warner Bros. Records

Scott Haapala Esq. – Attorney


As our world's natural resources become scarce and the price of food and transportation are changing the way Americans live, a number of us are going to have to make some serious changes. Scott Haapala is an attorney working to make those choices a little easier by focusing on ways that small decisions made by consumers can make a dramatic impact. His work primarily revolves around issues ranging from sustainable economics, renewable energy, electrical grids and environmental issues. As a DJ and Producer, he's beginning to focus on the environmental impact caused by vinyl culture and the positive changes that are pushing the scene towards a cleaner future.
Myspace

Stephanie Halmos
The Annie Leibovitz Studio, New York, NY
Stephanie Halmos.com

Robin Hodson


Robin Hodson is the Eastern Region Manager for the Avid Education Group (Sibelius, Digidesign/Pro Tools, M-Audio, Avid and Pinnacle), based in Baltimore MD.
An accomplished composer and performer, working in a variety of differing genres, he is also a recording engineer, songwriter and arranger.
Robin has been with Avid for 12 years, and received a Masters Degree at Magdalen College, Oxford before moving to the US in 1999.
He has trained universities and schools all over the US and Canada on how to use Avid music technology products, and authored several free quick start guides on how to use and learn Sibelius, Groovy Music and Pro Tools.
www.robinhodson.com

Sibelius Music – Robin Hodson

JaWar


Since 1998, JaWar has given informative seminars in and around the Atlanta, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, New Orleans, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama and many others. He created the workshop to identify and share vital information in a step-by-step process necessary for success and ultimate longevity in the music business with aspiring artists and those willing to be involved in the music industry. MT 101 shows the attendee how to be a successful entrepreneur and arms the aspiring artist with the tools necessary to prosper as an independent in the music business.
JaWar has assembled a workshop that merges extremely valuable information with his own personal style to deliver easily understood and empowering information. He challenges conventional views of how to succeed in the industry by seriously exploring and promoting independence in his DO FOR SELF TOUR. He inspires aspiring entertainers to aim high, create windows of opportunity and persevere through challenging stages of a budding career. In addition, he encourages networking so that those who attend the workshop may build alliances to work together toward a more prosperous future.
His style is to guide a highly interactive, comprehensive and fun workshop that will satisfy the attendee's thirst for good information while encouraging them to come back for more! Much more than a workshop facilitator, JaWar works hard to ensure that each workshop gives out important information that will aid each attendee's professional and personal development. Interactive group exercises are aimed at removing the formal and informal barriers that impede the networking process.
JaWar is dedicated to inspiring people to be the best they can be, in turn, fostering an environment that will support the family unit and improve the community at large. He believes community involvement means improving the world around us and has taken an active role by offering workshops with discounted rates including food and clothing drives that are willingly donated to less fortunate community members. He believes in his vision of producing a workshop that will be both useful and entertaining. In addition, he understands the importance of communicating with the client before an event, so as to tailor each workshop around the objectives of the event and the particular goals the client wishes to emphasize. He does this by making sure the workshop offers specific information that can be helpful to the neophyte or the seasoned professional in the music business.

Chief Visionary Officer of Music Therapy 101 (MT 101)
www.gojawar.com
Myspace

Kurt Klaus


Kurt R. Klaus advances the business interests of companies and individuals involved with the development, acquisition, and commercialization of intellectual properties. His main areas of practice include entertainment, media, contract, trademark, and copyright matters.
Kurt assists clients with maximizing the value of their intellectual properties, services, and tangible goods and protects client interests from disingenuous dealings, infringements, and claims. He represents clients in multi-party and common negotiations involving a wide range of intellectual property agreements and disputed matters. He handles all aspects of federal registrations for trademark and copyright matters. He represents clients in federal and state courts, before agencies, and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings.
In addition, Kurt provides advice concerning customary and innovative best business practices. He forms simple and multifaceted business structures for both conventional and non-profit companies.
Kurt's clients include film and television production and broadcast companies, film and television producers and directors, record companies, music and book publishers, IT businesses, legitimate stage (theatre) companies, celebrities, developing musical artists and writers, actors, business owners, and a variety of other concerns.
Kurt's work history also includes management experience at an international media company, film and television production, music production and publishing, screenplay writing, radio, and serving as an adjunct professor.
Entertainment ESQ
1629 K Street NW Suite 300
Washington, DC 20006
202.834.0050
www.entertainmentESQ.com

Maori Karmael Holmes
A former professor of media arts at Temple University, a filmmaker, writer and programmer and has taught filmmaking in communities of color. She worked in marketing for Sony Music for three years before leaving to work as an independent publicist for independent musician. She has programmed works of film and video, spoken word, dance, and music in Washington, DC, Atlanta and Philadelphia. She has directed six films, including Introducing... Versus, which is aired on Current TV. A recipient of grants from the Leeway Foundation and WYBE, her award-winning documentary film, Scene Not Heard: Women in Philadelphia Hip-Hop, has screened at over 25 festivals internationally and her most recent project, a music video for W. Ellington Felton, is currently airing on BET.
Black Lily Film Festival

Brian McTernan
Salad Days Studios
Baltimore, MD
Myspace

Matt Leffler Schulman Matthew Leffler Schulman is head engineer and co-owner of Mobtown Studios. As drummer for Baltimore's The Seldon Plan, he's known as an engineer with a musician's ear. He's been recording bands for over 15 years and is a graduate of the renowned Music Recording program at Middle Tennessee State University, located just outside Nashville. He has produced/engineered/mastered everything from field recordings of Metro trains to indie rock to klezmer.
Mobtown Studios
2603 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
www.mobtownstudios.com

Shantel Mitchell


Shantel Mitchell is a local Baltimore area freelance photographer who has two passions in life: music and photography.
She received a two year degree in photography from the Community College of Baltimore County and has been active in the music photography scene for over a year. Although this is not a full-time career for her, Shantel always makes time for attending shows and shooting every show that she attends. She has a great interest in local bands but has covered major label bands as well.
Shooting under low-light situations is her specialty and she has a great deal of experience shooting in clubs that are not as well lit as the larger venues.
Shantel is committed to providing the finest live performance photography for band's to use for promotional purposes and shoots regularly for www.prefixmag.com and DC's local favorite www.brightestyoungthings.com.
Faithdesired Music Photography

Kim Paris


Sinister Foxy specializes in tour booking and management. We know that as an artist, you want to focus your time and energy on making and playing music. Sinister Foxy takes the burden of generating massive amounts of paperwork, mailings, and contract negotiations off your hands so that you can stick to what you do best–performing.
Sinister Foxy was founded by Kim Paris, a Detroit music industry veteran. For years, Kim has traveled nationally and internationally to music conferences, such as CMJ in New York City and North by Northeast in Toronto. Having worked in various avenues of entertainment – such as radio (WDET), print (Real Detroit Weekly), film (Detroit Film Center), and live music venues (OSLO, Bohemian National Home, Fifth Avenue) – she has an insider's perspective on the music business, along with countless industry connections.
In the summer of 2006, Kim hit the road with the Detroit band, The Questions, after booking their five-week nationwide tour, making stops in New York, New Jersey, Boston, Cincinnati and New Orleans, among others. The experience left her with a first-hand account of what's needed logistically while touring.
Sinister Foxy Productions
Myspace

Michelle Rakshys
THE SYNDICATE
1801 Willow Avenue
Weehawken, NJ 07086
www.thesyn.com

Ravi


Ravi, an artist whose credits span from the dives of Manhattan to the Oval Office, tours the country performing original music, conducting guitar clinics, and as a consultant lecturing on crucial issues facing the music industry. The singer-songwriter and guitarist originally from New York City, now residing in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia following a three-year sojourn in New Orleans, has appeared on Letterman, Leno, Saturday Night Live, Today Show, Good Morning America, etc., and has performed at the most prestigious venues including Madison Square Garden, Louisiana Superdome (the world's largest indoor arena), and a White House Christmas Party. Ravi also appears annually at one of the music industry's most celebrated events: "Muriel Anderson's All Star Guitar Night."
The "creme de la creme" of the entertainment industry frequently calls on Ravi. Mercury Records/PolyGram hired him in 1997 to play guitar on tour with three-time Grammy nominee Hanson (the top selling band in the world that year). Simon & Schuster published his tour journal/autobiography. Electronic Musician, Onstage, Music & Sound Retailer, and Musician magazines feature Ravi's articles, and he has a monthly column in Music Inc. magazine. Berklee College of Music, Pepperdine University, and others including NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) and most music business conferences host his lectures. The world's largest manufacturer of guitars and pianos, SMC (Samick Music Corp.), sought out Ravi to represent Greg Bennett Guitars as the brand's national electric guitar clinician. Most recently, TrueFire contracted Ravi to film several long-form guitar instructional videos and join their faculty of world famous guitarists.
With professional endorsements & business savvy, Ravi has released CDs independently and toured extensively for CD, book signings, and product clinics; as well as performing with his band. He writes and performs a unique twist on "pop" music, combining funky grooves with smart songwriting. His music and musicianship have garnered rave reviews, comparing him to Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood, Duane Allman, Peter Frampton, and others. Ravi has earned a reputation for delivering high quality music and entertainment.
In addition, Ravi is the founder of www.ArtisticIntegrity.org and www.CultureofIntegrity.org, two Web sites aimed at inspiring greater social responsibility amongst artists and corporations. These Web sites combined with his frequent lectures and articles on "Integrity" have positioned Ravi as one of the most outspoken advocates on the subject in the music industry. He is also the spokesman for The Music For Life Alliance, uniting non–profits that bring music education to underprivileged kids, and he sits on the board of several organizations under that umbrella.
Artistic Integrity
www.artisticintegrity.com
www.heyravi.com
www.InstantGuitarification
www.cultureofintegrity.org

Alterra Robinson

Turn the Tables music events are at premier nightclubs to raise awareness and funds for the fight to stop global warming. Turn the Tables engages and activates young urban voters through DJ-hosted club events. Turn the Tables uses the voice of modern club culture to mobilize young urban voters and pressure Congress to pass global warming legislation.
Raise awareness to reduce global warming pollution by 2% per year to achieve an 80% reduction by 2050
Register people to vote and to sign our 2% pledge
Raise funds to help poor communities in the U.S. and abroad cope with the ominous impacts of climate change
Alterra works at National Wildlife Federation as an event coordinator for Turn the Tables and other major NWF events. She received her undergraduate degree from George Mason University in Global Organization Management, and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at Virginia Tech in Public Policy/International Affairs.
National Wildlife Federation
Turn the Tables on Global Warming
www.nwf.org

Walter Rowe


Walter Rowe is a professional photographer living near Baltimore, MD.
He has photographed dozens of local, regional, national and international recording artists. His work has been featured in both print and electronic publications. He has been the subject of several articles and his work has been used in numerous artist projects.
Walter specializes in solo artist and band portraits, editorial and publicity photographs, and live performance photographs.
He is currently working with Jon Sievert on the second edition of the book "Concert Photography: How To Shoot And License Music–Business Photographs".
Walter is the co-founder of www.MusicPhotographers.net, an online community dedicated to advocating sound business practices and protecting the rights of professional music photographers.
He is also a member of the Editorial Photographers professional photography trade organization. His portfolio can be viewed online at the following.
www.roweimages.com
www.walterrowephotography.com
Myspace

Cynthia Blake Sanders
O B E R | K A L E R
120 East Baltimore Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
www.ober.com

Jesse Saunders


Jesse Saunders is the architect of what we know as House Music. Jesse wrote, produced, performed, mixed and released the 1st documented House record, "ON & ON," on his upstart label Jes Say Records out of Chicago in 1984, which sparked the worldwide phenomenon. He went on to produce the world's most covered and largest selling House single "Love Can't Turn Around," which topped the charts in more than 20 countries and secure the 1st major record deal for a House Music artist/producer DJ with Geffen/Warner Bros. Records in 1986. During his 10 year stint at Geffen/Warner Bros. he produced and remixed such records as De La Soul "Me, Myself and I," Paula Abdul "Vibeology," Gerardo "We Want The Funk," Jermaine Stewart "Set Me Free" (album), and the chart topping Simple Pleasure "Where do We Go From Here." He went on to further build Chicago's reputation as the birthplace of House within the Jive records system with his brother Wayne Williams with remixes on DJ Pierre "Come and Fly" and Mr. Lee "Pump It." In 2004 Jesse garnered a Grammy mention with his remixes of R. Kelly "Step In The Name of Love" and Eamon's #1 smash hit "F*** It (I Don't Want You Back)".
Jesse has been featured in hundreds of books including the bestseller "What Kind Of House Party Is This?" by Jonathan Fleming (MixMag) and his own semi autobiography "House Music...The Real Story." He has co-starred in over 10 documentaries including the Sun Dance award winning "Modulations," the Channel 4 (London) mini-series "Pump Up The Volume," the BBC audio documentary "The 2nd Summer of Love" and currently the award winning "Put The Needle on the Record." He has had hundreds of features in every major industry magazine including Rolling Stone, MixMag, Urb and Keyboard.
Jesse has lectured at top conferences, schools, colleges and universities throughout the world including The Red Bull Academy, Oxford University, Boston University, The Winter Music Conference (Miami), Popkom (Germany), The New Music Seminar (New York) and the Amsterdam Dance Event (Holland).
In 2004, Jesse celebrated 20 years of House Music with a world tour that spanned every hemisphere in the world and included 45 cities touching more than 1,000,000 people. Jesse has released 4 chart topping DJ mixed CDs including The Jail Mix (Warner Music-1999), Rave on Boat (Warner Music- 2001), Disco Royal (Sony-2003) and The 20th Anniversary of House Music MIX (BrokenRecords.us). He was also selected as a Grammy entrant nominee for his unprecedented "Chicago Reunion" Album in 1997 and his remixes of Eamon's "F*** It (I Don't Want You Back)" in 2005.
His previous singles "Funk U Up", "Real Love", "Love Can't "Get Sum", "Yeah/Let Me Hear U", "Body Music", "EveryBody", "On & On" (twice 1984 and 2004), "Get Sum" (2005) and "Feelin Me" (2006) have topped charts and broken barriers in the Dance charts from Billboard to iTunes. His current release "Luv 2 Luv U" is already making noise in clubs and Mixshows.
Jesse Saunders' DJ sets are not only music to your ears, but a musical journey through the history and foundation of House Music and Hip Hop and their influences through popular music. House Music is known as a more underground sound, but its elements come from everyday popular music. Its origination is embedded in R&B, electronic Hip Hop such as "Planet Rock" (by Jesse Saunders Biography-2008 2 Soul Sonic Force/Afrika Bambaata), Gospel, Jazz, New Wave and Classic Rock. So it's no wonder that with all these influences you can't help but love how Jesse manipulates the music to make it an experience that you won't forget. It's more of a DJ SHOW than a DJ playing records.
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois Jesse felt the "groove to make people move" at the early age of fifteen. He boasts an extensive record collection dating back to 1974 from R&B, Classic Rock, Hip Hop & Rap, Country and Alternative. He says DJing is in his blood "a true DJ never grows out of it". There's nothing like the rush of controlling the crowd and having them yell for more."
Jesse has played in and promoted clubs from America to Europe and Asia. He began his career in Chicago spinning at places like high school dances and house parties, then graduated to bigger venues and clubs such as The Blue Gargoyle, First Impressions, Maclenda's, Sauer"s, The Mansion, The Playground and DaVinci Manor; all cornerstones in the history of House Music.
Quickly he moved to the next level, playing at New York's auspicious Sound Factory, Tunnel, Danceteria, The Fun House and Palladium. The house phenomenon spread over the globe with Jesse leading the way. He produced a syndicated radio show entitled "Global House". The show featured "live" broadcasts from clubs around the world including his "Real Story" History Mix" and was highly influential. He went on to headline the biggest festivals and events all over the globe such as Germany's May Day, Love Parade and Nature One, Switzerland's Rave On Boat, London's Tribal Gathering and in America Love Parade, Love Festival, Ultra, Together as One and Cyberfest. With Credentials such as these, to say that Jesse Saunders is an icon is an understatement. His message of love, peace and harmony through feel good music has been recognized by the Mayors of Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and Albuquerque with proclamations for his own day in those cities. As a matter of fact, he has received another from the city of Chicago and the state of Illinois as recently as August 10, 2005. Paul Allen's Experience Music Project in Seattle, Washington has inducted Jesse into the musical archives of their museum. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has done the same with his book.
His book is required reading material for Colleges and Universities all over the world. With all these accomplishments, it's easy to understand why Jesse is recognized as not only the "Originator" of House, Electronic and DANCE MUSIC, but its Ambassador as well...
www.brokenrecords.com
www.jessesaunders.com
www.housemusicreunion.com
Myspace – Jesse Saunders
Myspace – HouseMusicLive

Gregory E. Seneff, Sr. ESQ
Between graduation from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1981 with double majors in Religion/Philosophy and Communications, and before attending law school at the University of Louisville's Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, Greg spent almost nine years in the music and media production industries in various capacities including as a booking agent, road manager, disc jockey (the former WXLN–FM and WFIA–AM in Louisville, Kentucky), concert promoter, retail music buyer, and Assistant Director of Media at Asbury Theological Seminary.
Since graduation from law school 1992, Greg has worked as a solo-practitioner, served as the Director of Legal Affairs at Benson Music Group, and as the Director of Business Affairs at EMI Christian Music Group. Both company positions included drafting and negotiating recording contracts, publishing contracts, record distribution agreements, exclusive production agreements, video production agreements, record club distribution agreements, and international subpublishing agreements.
Greg is currently in solo practice at The Seneff Law Office. Representative clients have included the recording artists Jars of Clay, Larry Norman, The Peasall Sisters, Across the Sky, Brother's Keeper, IIIrd Tyme Out, Dan Peek (formerly of the supergroup America), Nouveaux, Ruby Amanfu, Sacred Tree, and Shaded Red. Songwriter clients have included Del Gray (of Little Texas), Karen Staley, Tricia Walker, Billy Simon, Jim Weber, Twila McBride and others. Greg also represents film and video production companies, independent record labels, publishers, and production companies. Greg has served as General Counsel for both the Gospel Music Association and Christian Music Trade Association. Greg serves as a Board member for the non–profit ministry of Touchstone Youth Resource Services, as a member of the advisory committee and featured columnist for Christian Activities magazine, and a regular contributor to the Legal and Business discussion board for Write About Jesus. He is a contributing writer for Power Source magazine and the Internet magazine iBluegrass.com, and executive producer and host of the podcast Artist Insider (www.ArtistInsider.com).
Greg is an adjunct professor for the Delta Music Institute at Delta State University in Mississippi and a regular seminar speaker conducting his own seminars around the country, and speaking for the Academy of Gospel Music Arts regional events, Music in the Rockies, for the Southern Gospel Music Guild, the Nashville New Music Conference, the Midwest Entertainment Industry Conference, the West Virginia Music Conference, the CIA conference, Independent Music Conference, the Millennium Music Conference, and the Write About Jesus Conference. Greg and Dove award winning songwriter Billy Sprague are available to conduct one day seminars called the Momentum Music Workshop designed to encourage and mentor the local artist and songwriter.
Greg is the producer of MusicLawBiz Vol.1, an educational project for artists and songwriters which contains 13 hours of audio information on 12 CDs and approximately 400 pages of information. The subjects covered include record contracts, publishing contracts, band partnership agreements, forming a corporation or Limited Liability Company, booking and management issues, copyright, trademark, and rights of publicity issues, finances for small businesses, how to pitch demo recordings, and much more. Included are 8 interviews with artists, songwriters, a record producer, a booking agent, an artist manager, a Vice President of A&R, and a personal financial counselor.
Greg and his family live in Nashville, Tennessee. During his free time (what's that?), he enjoys attending concerts, reading, swimming, and annual house-building mission trips to the colonials of northern Mexico, and following Kentucky Wesleyan College basketball (8 time NCAA Division II Champions).
The Seneff Law Office
2905 Selena Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 37211
(847) 728-1842 or (866) 966-9984
www.musiclawbiz.com

Jon Stapp
eyedesign

Tattoo Detectives


The production duo of Gabriel Ben and Tacopimp formed the Tattoo Detectives in 2005 and has become one of the most exciting new talents in the global dance music scene. Their unique blend of electronic, funky, housey, techno elements have often come together to create some floor pounding productions. Their vibrant crowd pleasing DJ sets have often filled floors and their releases have landed on a number of different prestigious labels globally, including Intec, Sound of Acapulco, Twisted as well as their own imprint, Teggno Records.
The Tattoo Detectives have often found themselves on the playlists & charts of DJ's across the globe. Since there inception, the Tattoo Detectives have been drawing praise from some of the most regarded DJs in the world including the likes of Carl Cox & Paul Van Dyk. The Tattoo Detectives have been making some serious international headlines, which found them on Paul Van Dyk's Vonyc Sessions in June 2007 and then invited back to become a monthly regular guest on Vonyc beginning in September 2007. They also were featured on Carl Cox's Global Radio Show in February 2007, in the Spotlight Segment which aired to over 15 million people in 20 different countries. However, Cox's support does not stop there; he also invited the boys to open for him in October 2007 at New York's Pacha Nightclub. The Tattoo Detectives have also been captivating crowds with their DJ sets in the US and have also been heard world wide on XM radio, Vonyc Sessions, Afterhours FM in Lima–Peru, Proton Radio and DJ Lucca's Sound of Acapulco show in Czech Republic which aired New Years Eve in 2007.
The Tattoo Detectives productions have been favorites of many; including being charted Top 10 with Carl Cox for "Il Salto Fuori" and also selected by Carl as one of the best tracks in 2006. Carl told Residentadvisor.com "This record is storming" and "Its pumping techno in its fury." However, the support for "Il Salto Fuori" didn't just stop with Cox, it become a regular in Paul Van Dyk's DJ sets as well. It just doesn't stop with that one track. Carl's "Space Ibiza CD" released on Intec in July 2006 also featured Tattoo Detectives "ETC" and was picked as one of the best songs at Carl's Ibiza Parties in the summer of 2006. Also their single "She Bleeps N' Bloops" got some notable recognition as it made headlines with URB magazine and BEATPORT, becoming a top seller on the internet's most prominent download music store.
The Tattoo Detectives have set quite a release slate for 2008. This year will see the release of several brand new singles, remixes, a debut artist album, along with a little more international touring in Europe & Ibiza. With support by legends like Carl Cox, Paul Van Dyk and many other A-list talents, this duo will sure make headlines in 2008 and beyond.
Teggno Records
www.tattoodetectives.com
Myspace

Arlette Thomas-Fletcher
Women In Film

Sara Thurston


DJing since 1997, Sara T has played with Grandmaster Flash, Girl Talk, Flosstradamus, Gogol Bordello, Kool Keith, Glass Candy, Valient Thorr, Xiu Xiu, Stereo Total, The Juan Maclean, Bang Gang, Drop the Lime and more. She has dj'ed in warehouses, museums, dive bars, backyards, house parties, rock clubs, clubby clubs, galleries, theaters, event centers, weddings, on the radio and is open to other stuff you might dream up.
"As a musician, a visual artist, and the co-owner of the popular boutique Chielle, Sara Thurston already has plenty on her plate. But her soul is best expressed through her performance as Dj Sara T. Long hailed as one of the best DJ's in Denver, Thurston blasts out sets of electro–inflected shrapnel and bass heavy artillery, all delivered with verve, intellect, integrity, and abandon. If you're looking for a party in a crate, Sara T. brings it."-The Onion // Sept 7th, 2006 // by Jason Heller
www.saratea.com
Myspace

Vaggeli


Taurus & Vaggeli formed together in 2006 and are quickly gaining fans globally with their unique no boundary house–electro-tech sound. The Philadelphia based duo of Angelo Bratsis, hailing from Greece and Leon Weingrad, a native, have both been actively involved in dance music for many years. Support for this duo has come from all avenues in the industry, ranging from greats like Carl Cox, Paolo Mojo, Marcella, Eddie Amador, King Britt, Francois K, John Acquaviva to techno masterminds Jon Rundell, Axel Karakasis and the likes of Robert Babicz, Jelo, Alex Flatner and the Tattoo Detectives.
Taurus & Vaggeli in short time, have put out music on Circle Music, Bugeyed Records, Emotive Sounds, Dj Center Records, Wave Music, Teggno Records, Playloop Records, Germany's A45 / Zentimental Records, a sub division of A45 Music. Their cutting edge dance floor friendly tracks have found themselves on DJ's playlist globally and have also been heard on Carl Cox's global, XM Radio, VONYC Radio (Berlin), Club FG (France), Shibuya FM (Japan) and Kiss FM in the UK. They have also done remixes for King Britt, Lil Louis, Jan Hammer, Jennifer Paige, David Vendetta, Gforty, The Model, Elektrik Haze, and Jerome Baker.
Taurus & Vaggeli have more in store with plans on completing a full length album in 2008 along with touring as DJ's. Vaggeli (Angelo Bratsis) becomes the new A & R for Teggno Records. The duo also plans to feature a monthly Mix on their every growing popular podcast internet page. They plan on featuring new tracks, new productions and remixes on the show. The guys have plenty of busy work ahead of them as they have plans to remix King Britt, Robert Babicz, David Vendetta, The Model and Tattoo Detectives. Also in works are original productions for Emotive Sounds, Circle Music, BugEyed Records, Teggno Records, Wave Music, Eletrodomesticos and Playloop Records. With great success in such little time, Taurus & Vaggeli only look to grow their sound into a world wide epidemic.
Teggno Records
www.taurusandvaggeli.com
Myspace

Ayodele Vassall–Gore
The Vassall–Gore Law Firm, P.C.
www.avglaw.com

Larry White



Music industry veteran, Larry White began his career in the San Francisco Bay Area as a band manager and concert promoter in the mid–1960's. He moved to Los Angeles in 1974 to manage the career of Davy Jones, (The Monkees), and to direct and produce television specials. His career path led to executive positions in the artist development departments at MCA Records and Warner Bros. Records. He has worked with such prominent and diverse artists as PiL, Jane's Addiction, Van Halen, R.E.M., Paul Simon, Barbra Streisand, Debbie Harry, Erasure, Paul Westerberg and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Larry is currently managing the careers of Norman, Oklahoma based singer–songwriter Ryan Lindsey and drumming legend, label owner and "Tour:Smart" author Martin Atkins. He currently resides in Chicago.
Invisible Records
3319 S. Lituanica Ave
Chicago, IL 60608
tel. 773-523-8316
fax. 773-523-8508

**The above topics and speakers are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances however we will announce any changes as they happen **