Initial Blog Post

Welcome to my blog! D Leigh Biz is an enterprise whose mission is to be a trusted resource in all aspects of talent management within the music industry. This blog will chronicle my journey in representing various musicians, usually emerging talent.  Here is where you will also find references to various sources that will assist new artists, managers and agents.  My premier client is a relatively new band, Three Story Hill, located in Bloomington, IN.  You will be privy to the highs/lows, ups/downs, ins/outs, and triumphs/missteps as I help launch this talented band.  Their dream is to be recognized on a national and even international level.  We are all new at this, so we welcome your comments, advice and guidance.

And so, the journey begins…

My Involvement

Why should I manage a band?  I am employed full time at a job that I really like.  So why even consider delving into the entertainment industry?  It all started with my son.  He’s a great bass player, and he played jazz and classical music through high school and now college.  But he agreed to join a cover band in the spring of this year.  He was really impressed with what the band was doing, especially how they were beginning to go beyond covers and record original music.  This appealed to him because he is also a song writer.   I attended one of their concerts and I was impressed with their stage presence.

Soon after, I was asked to provide support as an investor, business advisor and manager. I read a very interesting article by Heather McDonald on About.com Music Careers entitled "What To Look For in A Band To Manage".  The article referenced five things to consider before representing talent.

1. Do you know the music? (not necessarily do you like the music)

2. Are they committed?

3. Are the band relationships solid? 

4. Who are they working with now?

5. Do you like them?

I was able to answer all of these questions with a high level of satisfaction.  Question #3 is an interesting one.  The band has actually been around for approximately 2 years, but the band members have changed over time.  In 2012, they recruited a new bass player, vocalist and drummer.  For a band of six, that’s a 50% turnover rate in less than 12 months!  Finding members who are committed to the success of the band is tremendously important.  Artists should think carefully before signing on to a band, to make sure it fits with their goals.  A posting on the Songtrust.com blog talks about the 4 things to consider when forming a band which include: understanding songwriting splits, defining the band’s intention, discussing the musical vision and understanding the expectations of each band member.  If a band doesn’t work as a team, the likelihood of success diminishes quickly.

Join me for my next posting where I’ll discuss band member turnover in more detail along with some marketing and promotional efforts that Three Story Hill has utilized.