Hey All,
First off, let's talk some changes:
In an effort to reduce some unnecessary stress in my life, I'm backing off of some projects. Thus, the "Hammster Wheel" website has been redirected to my personal Tim Hamm website. This only means I am slowing down on the music production and web-design aspects. I am hoping to concentrate more on music.
I am also eliminating the "GR Music News" blog, as it simply required more time than I have available. It is still a good idea, but was simply more than I am able to keep up with. Maybe another time.
Moving on to band and music news:
I have been playing with the new group "Sookie Jones", and we have had some successful auditions at area clubs. We have some fall dates lined up, and hope to see some of you out there.
Updates should come more frequently, as I back off some of the other projects.
Until next time,
Tim
www.timhamm.com
Monday, June 25, 2007
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Sookie Jones
"Doogie" Jones? "Boogie" Jones?
No, "Sookie Jones".
This is the name of a Grand Rapids based "cover" band,which I have joined. The name comes from a lyric in an Aerosmith song. The group was originally formed in 2006, and began playing out later that year and into 2007. The bass player position needed filling when their original bassist had trouble juggling the band and a 3rd shift job (who wouldn't have trouble with that?). So, the band started seeking out a replacement bassist, and I found their posting on the "Craigslist.com" website (I stumbled upon it while looking for other area music news).
The band is a 4-piece, with Brenda providing the lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Rich on lead/rhythm guitar, Kevin on drums, and me on bass. Rich and Kevin help out with background vocals, and I am doing what I can while learning the bass parts. For info, check www.myspace.com/sookiejones. An official website (not MySpace) is getting finalized in the coming week or so.
At this point, there is no "original" music in the setlist, but we do try to put our own slant on the tunes we cover. For example, our version of Norah Jones "Don't Know Why" is based around guitar, rather than piano. Rich does a nice job with the arrangement, and Brenda does great with the vocals. The setlist on MySpace is only about half accurate, as we are adding and removing some.
Some of you may wonder why I have moved in this direction. I have two reasons that I can point to. One is that, with Sojourn, I found myself writing bass parts that were within my already existing skills. This led to little progression in my talents, and was my own fault for not working harder. When playing with a "cover" band, I am having to learn a variety of styles, and need to play them well. Thus, I have to become a harder working musician. Second, I am trying to take a smaller role within the band's business. While still enjoying my roles within Sojourn, it is nice not having to worry about sound gear, recording, and etc. I just show up and play bass guitar. More"play" and less worry.
I'm not sure where it will lead or how long it will be together, but I am finding the experience beneficial.
Gigs are already booked for the fall of 2007, and various auditions will be taking place over the summer. Come fall, there should be a more solid idea of how I will fit into all this.
See you out there.
Tim
www.timhamm.com
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Marketing 101
So, what's going on with marketing these days?
I work in a small office and one of our owners fancies himself a marketing manager. The biggest problem is that he brings in some part time people who are going to help him with the "marketing". Apparently, his definition of "marketing" only includes creating documents in Adobe Pagemaker or Photoshop. Notice, there is no mention of determining actual marketing strategies or determining customer expectations.
In my opinion, the part time person is filling more the role of "graphic designer" and not actually "marketing.
Now, I don't profess to be any marketing expert, nor have I taken any formal classes on the topic. However, I have been spending some time lately reading various marketing books, especially ones that apply to the internet and website marketing.
One of the good ones recently published is called "Call To Action" (Bryan and Jeffrey Eisenberg). This books says more in the first 20 pages, than most books say in 300 pages. If you have any interest in internet website marketing, you MUST read this book You can find it on Amazon. As I look today, it's released in a paperback version. Get this book!!
Also, I have been reading good things about the new book "Waiting for Your Cat to Bark"
(Bryan and Jeffrey Eisenberg). In fact, Amazon is putting these two books together as sort of a "package deal" (if that sort of thing interests you). In any case, I've heard plenty of good things about this book, and am planning on getting my own copy soon.
I started getting interested in this sort of thing after first hearing about Seth Godin's book "Free Prize Inside". This is another great book on basic marketing techniques.
On a final note, I would also recommend the classic "Guerilla Marketing" by Jay Levinson. This is THE book on budget minded marketing ideas, and has become the introductory marketing book for many small businesses. If you haven't read this one yet, grab a copy online or at your local bookstore. There will be at least one idea that could make a huge difference in your own endeavors.
That's it for now. Talk to you soon!!!
Hammster
I work in a small office and one of our owners fancies himself a marketing manager. The biggest problem is that he brings in some part time people who are going to help him with the "marketing". Apparently, his definition of "marketing" only includes creating documents in Adobe Pagemaker or Photoshop. Notice, there is no mention of determining actual marketing strategies or determining customer expectations.
In my opinion, the part time person is filling more the role of "graphic designer" and not actually "marketing.
Now, I don't profess to be any marketing expert, nor have I taken any formal classes on the topic. However, I have been spending some time lately reading various marketing books, especially ones that apply to the internet and website marketing.
One of the good ones recently published is called "Call To Action" (Bryan and Jeffrey Eisenberg). This books says more in the first 20 pages, than most books say in 300 pages. If you have any interest in internet website marketing, you MUST read this book You can find it on Amazon. As I look today, it's released in a paperback version. Get this book!!Also, I have been reading good things about the new book "Waiting for Your Cat to Bark"
(Bryan and Jeffrey Eisenberg). In fact, Amazon is putting these two books together as sort of a "package deal" (if that sort of thing interests you). In any case, I've heard plenty of good things about this book, and am planning on getting my own copy soon.I started getting interested in this sort of thing after first hearing about Seth Godin's book "Free Prize Inside". This is another great book on basic marketing techniques.
On a final note, I would also recommend the classic "Guerilla Marketing" by Jay Levinson. This is THE book on budget minded marketing ideas, and has become the introductory marketing book for many small businesses. If you haven't read this one yet, grab a copy online or at your local bookstore. There will be at least one idea that could make a huge difference in your own endeavors.
That's it for now. Talk to you soon!!!
Hammster
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Random Thoughts from the week
Hi All,
It's been awhile since I've posted, so I'm just going to throw some random thoughts out.
One thing on my mind this week is the impending announcement of Journey hiring vocalist Jeff Scott Soto as their new full time lead singer. Jeff has been in the lead singer role since July of 2006, having stepped in when previous singer Steve Augeri had to leave due to throat issues. From what I've read so far, it sounds like Steve A was never really that comfortable with the vocal style Journey required. Part of this is justified by the other members taking lead vocal shots during the recent "Generations" CD. Last month, I got to see the band with Soto as the lead singer, and I gotta say that he brought some energy back to the band. His level of enthusiasm was contageous, and the entire band appeared to be playing as it their lives depended on it. I could see how making Soto "full time" would help continue the current momentum they have going. From what I see, they have new "promo shots" with Jeff as part of the band, and the "official" announcement can't be far off. I see it as a good thing, even though I never really had a problem with Augeri.
On Sunday night, I was at the Bob Seger concert here in Grand Rapids. This was a "sold out" show, and there were plenty of 50-somethings wandering around. Now, I'm almost 42, and don't have a problem with an older crowd. My problem was with these folks acting like they were 20 again. Although I understand "reliving your youth", this went beyond that. As far as Seger, he sounded fair. Not outstanding, but good enough. No fancy lighting or introduction, and no live video feed to screens. Just the basic band, playing through the hits and some new music. In my opinion, it sort of came across as a giant "bar band". I would have like to see Bob give the tour a bit more thought, and have brought along some more of the current technology found at concerts (like the live video feeds). Overall, I'd give it a 7 out of 10.
This weekend, I will be catching the Jars of Clay concert here in Grand Rapids. I've never seen the band before, and have very little knowledge of their music. I'm going with a friend who has seen them before. I'm basically going along to get an idea of what the band is like live, and I'm not sure if I'll leave with any new opinion of the band. It would be nice to.
Other than that, I'm just kind of staying "inactive" in live performance, as I'm still not sure of what direction I want to go. After Sojourn went on hiatus, I'm just not sure what will best fit. I would like to do something more "rock", but I also realize that it's not exactly "credible" coming from a bunch of 40/50 yr olds. I'm leaning towards a more "coffeehouse" acoustic/folk/jam band type idea, but not sure about that either. I'm sure I'll eventually come to some conclusion.
That's enough for now,
Hammster
It's been awhile since I've posted, so I'm just going to throw some random thoughts out.
One thing on my mind this week is the impending announcement of Journey hiring vocalist Jeff Scott Soto as their new full time lead singer. Jeff has been in the lead singer role since July of 2006, having stepped in when previous singer Steve Augeri had to leave due to throat issues. From what I've read so far, it sounds like Steve A was never really that comfortable with the vocal style Journey required. Part of this is justified by the other members taking lead vocal shots during the recent "Generations" CD. Last month, I got to see the band with Soto as the lead singer, and I gotta say that he brought some energy back to the band. His level of enthusiasm was contageous, and the entire band appeared to be playing as it their lives depended on it. I could see how making Soto "full time" would help continue the current momentum they have going. From what I see, they have new "promo shots" with Jeff as part of the band, and the "official" announcement can't be far off. I see it as a good thing, even though I never really had a problem with Augeri.
On Sunday night, I was at the Bob Seger concert here in Grand Rapids. This was a "sold out" show, and there were plenty of 50-somethings wandering around. Now, I'm almost 42, and don't have a problem with an older crowd. My problem was with these folks acting like they were 20 again. Although I understand "reliving your youth", this went beyond that. As far as Seger, he sounded fair. Not outstanding, but good enough. No fancy lighting or introduction, and no live video feed to screens. Just the basic band, playing through the hits and some new music. In my opinion, it sort of came across as a giant "bar band". I would have like to see Bob give the tour a bit more thought, and have brought along some more of the current technology found at concerts (like the live video feeds). Overall, I'd give it a 7 out of 10.
This weekend, I will be catching the Jars of Clay concert here in Grand Rapids. I've never seen the band before, and have very little knowledge of their music. I'm going with a friend who has seen them before. I'm basically going along to get an idea of what the band is like live, and I'm not sure if I'll leave with any new opinion of the band. It would be nice to.
Other than that, I'm just kind of staying "inactive" in live performance, as I'm still not sure of what direction I want to go. After Sojourn went on hiatus, I'm just not sure what will best fit. I would like to do something more "rock", but I also realize that it's not exactly "credible" coming from a bunch of 40/50 yr olds. I'm leaning towards a more "coffeehouse" acoustic/folk/jam band type idea, but not sure about that either. I'm sure I'll eventually come to some conclusion.
That's enough for now,
Hammster
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Check out Visual Cliff
Hey All,
I have been enjoying the music of a great mostly instrumental band, and I thought it would be worthwhile to pass the information along.
The band is called "Visual Cliff", and they have multiple CDs available via their website. This is mostly a "studio" band, and they are independent. The very cool part is that they told me they are doing a majority (if not all) of their production via Cakewalk Pro 9. Now, as many of you may be aware, CakeWalk Pro 9 is an older versionof the CakeWalk product. However, these guys are putting out an amazing product using this software.
The point is that you don't necessarily need the "latest and greatest" software or hardware to create some outstanding music. Excellent musicians who have a good understanding of their own gear, are able to frequently get better results than the guy with all the new stuff but no knowledge. So, my advice today is to stop worrying about whether you have the latest gear, and just get to be the best at using what you currently have.
Personally, this is a challenge also to myself, as I tend to be a person who thinks the latest versions will give me that added boost I need to get going. It hasn't worked out yet, and I'm slowly learning my lessons.
Take what you got, and make some great music with it!!!
Blessings,
Hammster
I have been enjoying the music of a great mostly instrumental band, and I thought it would be worthwhile to pass the information along.
The band is called "Visual Cliff", and they have multiple CDs available via their website. This is mostly a "studio" band, and they are independent. The very cool part is that they told me they are doing a majority (if not all) of their production via Cakewalk Pro 9. Now, as many of you may be aware, CakeWalk Pro 9 is an older versionof the CakeWalk product. However, these guys are putting out an amazing product using this software.
The point is that you don't necessarily need the "latest and greatest" software or hardware to create some outstanding music. Excellent musicians who have a good understanding of their own gear, are able to frequently get better results than the guy with all the new stuff but no knowledge. So, my advice today is to stop worrying about whether you have the latest gear, and just get to be the best at using what you currently have.
Personally, this is a challenge also to myself, as I tend to be a person who thinks the latest versions will give me that added boost I need to get going. It hasn't worked out yet, and I'm slowly learning my lessons.
Take what you got, and make some great music with it!!!
Blessings,
Hammster
Monday, July 17, 2006
"What Is Indie" Movie
Hey All,
Just wanted to let you know about a new independent movie that is getting some press around the independent music scene.
The movie is called "What Is Indie?" and it is a documentary covering a bunch of independent musicians. Some are coffeehouse musicians, while others are in different styles.
The movie is truly a documentary, and does include course language from some musicians. Because of this, I would have to give the movie an "R" rating, although there is no nudity. The movie is "unrated" due to the director's choice.
You can find more out at www.whatisindiemovie.com
Check it out, if you are interested in a good discussion about what actually makes a musician an "Indie artist". Definitely made me think a bit about it.
Later,
Tim
www.timhamm.com
Monday, February 27, 2006
But Everyone Likes Us!
Lately, I’ve been reading quite a few books on indie music marketing, and there is a common theme that I think many Christian artists have neglected. The issue is with “branding” yourself.
You see, the casual music fan likes to have some sort of reference point for what to expect from this “new music” you are offering. The idea is to come up with a brief description of your music, which is also narrow in focus. Simply stating you play “Christian music” or “rock music” includes such a wide spectrum of styles that the term isn’t specific enough to connect with the music fan. The typical fan needs something that gives them a reference point. For example, “Christian 80s Synth Pop Music (but without the big hair)” gives a much more specific word picture. You have a fairly decent idea of what to expect from the description.
It’s a fact that you have a much better chance of being recognized, when in smaller crowds. Thus, the smaller you can identify the specific musical niche or genre, the more likely you will be more successful in that market. Many bands do not want to be “typecast” into a specific style, and purposefully try to appeal to a wide range of fans. Simple consideration concludes this method will be much more difficult to be found by music fans, while also being quite difficult to maintain.
So, make your life a bit easier, and spend some time chipping away at your musical identity, working to find the most specific description you can achieve. With some work, you should be able to get yourself out of the ocean and into a nice sized swimming pool.
On the plus side, you certainly won’t waste as much time and money, when you are dealing with those who are already interested in your style of music, right?
Feel free to post comments, or email me.
Tim Hamm
www.timhamm.com
You see, the casual music fan likes to have some sort of reference point for what to expect from this “new music” you are offering. The idea is to come up with a brief description of your music, which is also narrow in focus. Simply stating you play “Christian music” or “rock music” includes such a wide spectrum of styles that the term isn’t specific enough to connect with the music fan. The typical fan needs something that gives them a reference point. For example, “Christian 80s Synth Pop Music (but without the big hair)” gives a much more specific word picture. You have a fairly decent idea of what to expect from the description.
It’s a fact that you have a much better chance of being recognized, when in smaller crowds. Thus, the smaller you can identify the specific musical niche or genre, the more likely you will be more successful in that market. Many bands do not want to be “typecast” into a specific style, and purposefully try to appeal to a wide range of fans. Simple consideration concludes this method will be much more difficult to be found by music fans, while also being quite difficult to maintain.
So, make your life a bit easier, and spend some time chipping away at your musical identity, working to find the most specific description you can achieve. With some work, you should be able to get yourself out of the ocean and into a nice sized swimming pool.
On the plus side, you certainly won’t waste as much time and money, when you are dealing with those who are already interested in your style of music, right?
Feel free to post comments, or email me.
Tim Hamm
www.timhamm.com
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Welcome
Welcome to my own personal blog page.
Here I will offer tips and insight into independent music, as well as how it applies to Christian musicians. I will also offer insights into various issues related to this topic.
If you have any suggestions for topics, feel free to contact me via my website www.timhamm.com
Thanks,
Tim
Here I will offer tips and insight into independent music, as well as how it applies to Christian musicians. I will also offer insights into various issues related to this topic.
If you have any suggestions for topics, feel free to contact me via my website www.timhamm.com
Thanks,
Tim
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)