If you look closely at the bottom of photograph to left, you’ll see my client, Jay Leopardi, and his new show Common Denominator, featured in the bright lights in New York City. None other than Times Square! Congrats to Jay and president of IC Places, Inc., owners of PunchTV, who will fund and host the new show, featuring Jay interviewing various moguls of industry Napolean Hill style!
Learn more about the show here.
In 2009 the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) estimated 95% of all digitally downloaded music was obtained illegally. This leaves only 5% of potential revenue to be 
distributed between all those who play a part in today’s music culture, including the most affected group, songwriters and music publishers.
While some opponents dispute that number, few serious observers would dispute that piracy has cost the industry billions of dollars. The outcome of this piracy is more harmful than most people truly understand. There are currently over 70,000 U. S. jobs affected and 2.7 billion dollars in earnings lost in music and related manufacturing and retail industries, according to a recent independent report. More precisely, it has been estimated that the total impact of illegal downloading and piracy equates to 12 billion dollars of direct and indirect revenue lost annually in the U.S. economy. Something must be done to protect the art, industry, and creators of music from this threat.
Because of this dilemma, my client, Save the Music America, was formed and plays a increasingly influential role in spreading the word of the harm that is caused when people download music illegally. STMA is a new non-profit organization whose mission is to educate the public and create awareness of intellectual property protection and copyright laws. The goal of STMA is to produce future generations with a conscience, preserving the arts and the constitutional rights of people within the creative industries, as well as the history of American music. On their website, STMA states its purpose as:
“…[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][to] raise money through celebrity endorsed events and media platforms and to educate the public to the impact of illegal downloading, creating public support for the cause. STMA will use PSA’s (public service announcements), print and online media, social networks, and educational media to raise awareness and demonstrate the repercussions of illegal file sharing. STMA also plans to create short documentary dramas to illustrate the very real tragedies which have struck those once who were supported by the music industry. These stories will help give faces and personal testimonies to the loss of income and career for the ‘everyday’ people who make up much of the infrastructure, such as audio technicians and marketing personnel.”
Starting next week, a series of PSAs entitled “Please Share and Download Music Responsibly” will begin airing on GAC and CMT. More than forty artists, producers, managers, songwriters, and other music industry professionals gave their time to help with these PSAs and include names like Jerod Neimann, Billy Dean, Wayne Mills Band, Julie Ingram, and Joe Bonsall just to name a few. Here is one example of the PSA’s that will be airing:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hf7_lA-KyWE]
Mark Dryer, co-founder and head of productions for STMA, stated: “I am thrilled at the momentum we have gained this year, after talking with over 200 people about piracy everyone agrees it is a huge problem and willing to help in some way .I believe the right company will align with us to help fund our efforts very soon. We are looking forward to the bright future to make a difference”.
Check out their website at savethemusicamerica.org and be sure to have your channel set to either CMT or GAC next week to catch the first series of PSAs released by Save the Music America!!!
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My client and long term friend, Jay Leopardi continues to build a remarkable brand. Not only is Jay working the THE Shark, Daymond John on several projects, but he just landed a tr emendous opportunity in the world of entertainment. Jay has agreed to produce a series of interviews with various bu siness leaders to take his viewers on a journey to discovery what makes the highest achievers and the greatest business people succeed. Readers of Napolean Hill’s Think and Grow Rich will recognize the familiar plot. Jay’s series will be called Common Denominator and is slated to air on PunchTV this fall.
“I met Jay Leopardi on the set of Sony Studios in Los Angeles. It was instantly clear that Jay has the “it” factor, or shall I say Hit factor. The guy has a personality mix of Steve Jobs, Donald Trump and is Robert Downey Jr’s doppelganger,” said Steven Samblis, Chairman of IC Places, Inc, who recently acquired PunchTV.. “As we talked outside the sound stage, studio tours where stopping and taking pictures of Jay obviously thinking he was Robert. As we talked about what Jay does in the arena of branding and his magnitude of experience, I knew something was there.”
The following interview with Daymond John inspired the series:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofn5ZXUyEbQ]
We recently wrapped up the exclusive songwriting agreement between my client, Logan Brill and Carnival Music. Logan and her family are from the Knoxville area. She moved here to pursue a 
music degree at Belmont University, but ended up with a major in French and a minor in vocal performance. Logan is writing with other Carnival talents such as David Nail, Troy Jones, Scooter Carusoe, and others. Carnival is owned and operated, of course, by producer Frank Liddell (Miranda Lambert, Kellie Pickler, Lee Ann Womack). Liddell recent took home the coveted Producer of the Year award from
the Academy of Country Music. Carnival’s prolific group of writers is responsible for generating eleven number ones in the past decade, including cuts by Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Reba McEntire and the Dixie Chicks. She has recently begun writing for her forthcoming project with producers, Matthew Miller and Oran Thorton. Logan’s debut performance was at the Tin Roof at the head of Music Row, Nashville. She also performed as the opening act for Edwin McCain at the Square Room in Knoxville. Logan is set to begin extensively touring during the summer of 2012.
Follow her on Facebook and Twitter. I expect to see great things from Logan in the near future.
By Jeff Scheese* (with Barry Neil Shrum, Esq.)
Great news for those of you who listen to The Music Row Show on WLAC Nashville! The show features my clients, Scott Southworth and Heino Moeller, who recently announced that starting June 3rd the weekly radio program will make the 
leap to WSM, the 86-year-old 650 AM station known fondly as the “Air Castle of the South.” Along with this change on the radio “dial”, the team also announced an agreement with BlueHighways TV (responsible for programs such as American JukeBox Theater and Dry Creek) who plans to film the program and begin airing the show on its cable network in July.
“We can’t even express how excited we are to bring The Music Row Show to WSM and BlueHighways TV! It’s an honor to be even a small part of WSM’s 86 year history and its musical legacy,” says co-host Southworth. Moeller added, “…to become a member of the BlueHighways TV family and its commitment to celebrating American music, art and culture is more than Scott and I ever imagined when we started the show.”
For those of you unfamiliar with The Music Row Show it is a weekly, two-hour radio show that airs every Sunday. Southworth and Moeller host the program while interviewing guests, listening to performances, and informing viewers on the happenings of the Music Row community. The Music Row Show began airing in November of 2007, and has since gained mass popularity and established an international fan base. This popularity has been attracting an array of guests that include some of the music industry’s most notable decisionmakers and recording artists, including legends Dolly Parton and Vince Gill.
WSM, the Air Castle of the South, has a rich history. It is known worldwide as a leader in the country radio genre. Its first program, WSM Barn Dance, began airing in 1925. The Barn Dance was a weekly Saturday night program at the Grand Ole Opry, WSM has been credited with shaping Nashville into the recording industry capital it is today. The stations’ historic, massive antenna, located in the suburb of Brentwood, gives it one of the largest footprints in the country. This extensive reach gave WSM a massive audience, giving many musical
acts from around the country incentive to come to Nashville in hopes of getting their performances played on the legendary station. The term “Music City USA” was coined by one of the stations disc jockeys, David Cobb, and since then the name has been adopted as Nashville’s unofficial nickname.
BlueHighways, based in Hendersonville, Tennessee, was started by Stan Hitchcock in 2009. It is an independent network celebrating original American roots music, culture, and events. Hitchcock is no stranger to running successful networks, as he founded Country Music Television (CMT) in 1984. BlueHighways, Hitchcock’s 3rd such venture, features shows such as Cooking Outdoors, Mule Training, Your Home Studio, and a slew of music programming. It’s goal is to offer a window into the experiences, music, neighborhoods, art, festivals and celebrations that define America’s vast culture as well as character.
Tom English, the General Manager for 650 AM WSM expressed his excitement for the duo to join his station:
Scott and Heino have done an amazing job building such a loyal international fan base for The Music Row Show. We are very proud to now bring the duo to our legendary airwaves and introduce this video version of the show exclusively on BlueHighways TV.”
Stan Hitchcock, Chairman and CEO of BlueHighways TV is also eager for the two to get started:
Our viewers will love this video version of Scott and Heino’s The Music Row Show. Their entertaining delivery and keen knowledge of the music industry will connect with the BlueHighways TV audience. We are also pleased to partner with WSM, as it brings strong credentials to our television version of this popular radio program.”
In reference to the deal, Scott and Heino added:
Barry Shrum has been instrumental in navigating us through the completely new waters as far as television negotiations. Not only did he go through the contract line by line with us (translating to english), he also helped us change some of the sections to take into account upcoming technology for future protection. There is no "Fear Factor" as we take The Music Row Show to a new medium with Barry in our corner!
Catch The Music Row Show on Sunday evenings on 650 AM WSM from 7-9 PM CT starting June 3.
*Hey folks, Jeff Scheese here just wanted to introduce myself. I’m currently enjoying the summer in Nashville before my Senior year at Belmont University. I’m a Music Business major currently and loving the realm of opportunities the city of Nashville offers. Upon graduation I plan on attending Vanderbilt’s Law School to further my education on the legal side of the music business. My ultimate goal is to become a lawyer in the music industry, mainly on the litigation side of things. I’m currently interning with Barry Neil Shrum, Entertainment Attorney, at his location in downtown Nashville. I’m learning a lot about the industry and enjoying my experience so far. Look forward to more pieces from me in the future.
Source:
My good friend and client Sonny LeMaire, lead member of the late seventies-sensation band, EXILE, will be featured on a new on Great American Countr
y called Hit Exchange.
The pilot episode features Trace Adkins discussing his fondness of the song “Kiss You All Over,” which climbed all the way to #1 on the charts in 1978, the year I graduated! The original version featured the
late Jimmy Stokley on lead vocals. In his book, A Personal Stand, Trace Adkins commented on the song:
In the late 1970’s, a few pop and rock bands went country – like Exile, that band from Kentucky. I like them a lot. I remember when “Kiss You All Over” went to number one in 1978. They sang in gospel harmonies and eventually drifted over to country.
In the first episode of Hit Exchange, which will premiere on GAC on December 15th at 8 p.m., Adkins will further discuss how the song influenced him, and expand on his respect for Exile. Trace and Exile recently went back into the studio to re-record the famous hit together. The show will feature footage of the recording session, together with individual interviews with the members of their band and their support team (I think my invitation go lost in the mail!). Finally, the show will feature a live performance of “Kiss You All Over” shot in Las Vegas with Trace joining Exile onstage!
Earlier this year, Exile was also feature on the Opry at the Ryman with Trace Adkins. Glad to see the band getting some well-deserved respect!
A successful R&B/hip hop collaboration comes along very rarely, one such as I’ll Be There For You/You’re All I Need To Get By by Method Man & Mary J. Blige. But come along it has. My friend and client, Lance, has teamed up with Mista Freezy to produce what is sure to be a classic. Lance and Mista Freezy are calling their collaborative efforts “Joker’s Wild,” an the resulting song, Long Hair has already created significant buzz on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
UPDATE: The song is quickly becoming viral! It hit the charts on “Tweet my Song” at 355 on July 27, then shot up to #44! The song is available on iTunes and will soon be available directly from Lance’s website, Lancesongs.com.
Lance is a singer/songwriter and one of kind in today’s music industry. Lance is not afraid to be true to himself and his craft. Many first recognize him by the hat on his head or the distinctive way he dresses. Most, however, remember the lyrics he sings and the way his adoring fans sing along. Each song he writes and performs seems ripped directly from his “heart and soul” and delivered with passion and emotion. Soon you’ll be singing along too! With the release of his album What you Make It on April 20, 2011, the world caught yet another glimpse of Lance’s soulful talent as he took it to the streets with a 64-date tour and television and radio campaign.
Brandon N. Foxx is commonly known as "Mista Freezy" throughout the musical industry. He is definitely another talent to be reckoned with. Brandon’s production skills are exemplary, and his saavy as an artist reflects his extensive experience, despite his young age.
"Mista Freezy" first made an impact on the industry in 1999 at age 14 with a hit single "When we Ride out", and has been going full steam since then. Shows with Master P, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Lil Boosie, and Beanie Siegel (just to name a few) add to his credibility as an artist, and as a producer, he has national placement. During this time frame of production and shows, Brandon also released two mixtapes, "Alone in the Game", and "Cohesive Player," which both received rave reviews.
In 2009, Freezy digitally dropped "GOD OF RAP", his 1st album, which sold several thousand copies and introduced him to the world. Germany and Sweden still have him ranked high in their playlists. He also attended SXSW,and did features in Spin Magazine and FADER FORT. In 2010, Brandon founded Money Hungry Mogul Musik Group, and made the transition from artist/producer to Owner/CEO, to further his interests on a global scale in the music industry and engage in the executive facet of the music business. Currently in 2011, Freezy is anticipating his 2nd album release, "Summertime Music" in June . Freezy has been certified with ASCAP since 2000 and has two Independent Hollywood music awards for best hip-hop production and best R&B production to his credit; Also, he has won best male artist at the Alabama Black Arts Festival in Huntsville, AL. Freezy also has had three major movie roles to his credit, most notably in CONSTELLATION. In essence, Brandon Foxx is multi-talented and the true definition of Southern Hospitality.
Both Lance and Brandon are home spun Alabama boys ya’ll!
Listen to Long Hair for yourself:
We have been working with our partner, Steve Tveit at OS Productions to release a selection of twelve authentic recordings of musical compositions from the Civil War era, in honor of the 150th anniversar
y of the war. The songs were produced by Davis Francis and Steve, and were recorded at OMNIsound studio using authentic period instruments – banjos, flutes, etc. Located on historic Music Row for over 20 years, OMNIsound Studios is one of Nashville’s premiere recording facilities. Artist’s that have recorded at OMNIsound include Steve Martin, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins, Jewel, Alison Krauss, Lady Antebellum, Taylor Swift and Miranda Lambert.
Through the further efforts of my friends and clients down at Digome in Cummins Station, the official website for the product was launched last week. There you can sample all twelve tracks, including some familiar tunes like Dixie, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Yellow Rose of Texas, When Johny Comes Marching Home Again, as well as less familiar selections such as Aura Lea, The Battle Cry of Freedom, Rebel Soldier, Hard Times Come Again No More, Old Dan Tucker, Bonnie Blue Flag and Arkansas Traveler. A history of each song is also included. Digital downloads of all twelve tracks is $9.99, which also includes a optional physical copy of the CD.
Be sure to visit the website, http://www.realcivilwarmusic.com and support the project! A special thanks goes out to everyone involved in the launch: Steve, Davis, Dawn, Roe, Tim and Brice!
My new client, Lance, releases his new album, What you Make It on April 20th. Backed up by the Peterson family, Lance joined forces with Berklee College of Music graduate, Randall S. Peterson, who produced this collection; another Berklee grad, Paul Meyer, did the mastering.
The finished product is being met with stellar reviews. This praise is indicative:
. . . one song that I have to chose as my over all play repeat and do it again song it would be “So Into You” . . . Lance did not hold out any of his heart and soul on this song as well as guitar and piano solos that make you want to roll the windows down and drive fast. This jam alone is one of many reason you should purchase this entire album.
Freelance writer Sherry Bach has this to say:
The feel of Lance’s music takes me back to the Atlanta Rhythm Section and Lionel Richie, two greats whose music never gets old. If you don’t remember who those artists are, just think sexy, raw, emotional, beat driven, and mood setting guitar licks – preparing us to feel good and fall in love.
Read the full review here.
Another blogger, educator and freelance writer, Anna Summers, summarized as follows:
[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][Lance’s music] is an eclectic mix of pop/rock and alternative songs with a distinctly soulful, bluesy-vibe that is trademark Lance. There’s something for every palette—from the sexy, sultry “Meet Me Downstairs” to the upbeat, charismatic, can’t-get-it-out-of-your-head Hey Everybody. So Into You promises to be the anthem of summer with its mesmerizing lyrics and shoreline groove. True to its title, this album meets you where life and love intersect, inviting you to make the most of every moment.
From a different media, disc jockey “OC” at KRUF 94.5 FM in Shreveport, Louisiana raves “Excellent tunes Lance! . . . Love the Downstairs tune but then again I love them all!
Finally, Sylphie Mitchell of The Last Note Standing says:
Favorite track . . .? For me, it’s a tough choice. If I want to dance, I’m going to pick “So Into You” because you can’t help but move when you hear it. For quiet moments and pure feeling, I want to listen to “Downstairs” and “I Wish You Were Here”. Lance’s music and lyrics are strong, and given even more depth and color by the Peterson family, who back him up instrumentally. All in all, for this writer, I have to say to LANCE that I “Got Love” and that I “Want (more) Love!”
Lance is currently on a tour of the Hot Topic retail outlets across the Southeast, currently appearing in Regency Square Mall in Jacksonville, Florida. He will be back in the Music Row area on April 19th appearing at the Belcourt Taps & Tapas in Nashville, and then at Borders Books in Brentwood and then at the Cool Springs Galleria on April 20th. Be sure to get out and show your support.
Find out for yourself what everyone is talking about. Submit your own review! But by all means, pre-order the CD here.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Nashville, Tennessee. Lance Songs announces that he recently inked a deal with Barry Neil Shrum, Esquire of Shrum & Associates to represent him in the entertainment industry. Lance is an emerging artist whose music is very soulful and whose writing is inspiring. Lance’s album Rise and Shine Hero sold over 50,000 units, and he has been features in Billboard Magazine (June 13, 2008 issue) and Business Week (June 6, 2008). Lance recently landed a tour of all Hot Topic stores across the Southwest, which will begin in early April and continue through the summer. This is in addition to his already full touring schedule. Lance is currently on tour at various venues in California, but will be back in the Nashville area to appear on Borders Books & Music in Brentwood, Tennessee on April 20, 2011. Find out more about Lance and his tour on his website.