Thursday, December 17, 2009

More than Music (Spring 2010)

I have finally decided to share my finally release. I had been working on it under the name Dark Night since 2008. I have decided to release it next year titled More than Music.

This project will be my parting gift to those that have supported my during my music career. Those that have signed up on my mailing list will receive the project for FREE! Interested parties have until 12/31/09 to enter their email address on the list to qualify.

Check out my previous project on http://ping.fm/tZMoZ to get a taste of what is in store. You won't be disappointed.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

A clear explanantion (retirement)

Since the announcement of my retirement, I have receive countless emails, comments, phone calls and texts asking why. Well, to put an end to the "whys," here is a clear explanation.

I have been doing music for 13 years strong. I have experienced moderate success. In my time, I have owned and operated 2 record labels, worked for 3+ major/independent labels, been mentored by a Grammy award winning producer, met countless independent and major artists and celebrities, and traveled the country doing what I love to do which is make music. Honestly, those things were the only things that I really wanted to accomplish and if I just so happened to win a few awards and make some money...that would have been extra.

What people are failing to realize is that every player in the game does not win a championship. Some players leave the game as a great player. And as long as I am settled with it; that should be enough.

My life is a diamond; multi-faceted. There is so much more to me than music. I have a few other projects that I working on outside of music. I am pretty sure that the music will live on in my sons. They are very talented and have already made steps to expressing that talent.

Just as I have been told I am great at music, it is time to be great as father and a man. So for those that don't understand and those hurt by decision, I ask that you put aside your own feelings and wants and wish me well in my other endeavors.

Hang my jersey in the rafters and remember the good times. Oh, and just cause I leave the game doesn't mean that I won't back to coach...

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

RETIRING

After careful thought and consideration, I will be retiring from the music business January 2010. I have decided to move on with other ventures of interest.

I have enjoyed my music career and tenure and I will take with me some of my fondest memories. I consider my career a success as I have worked with some of the best people in the industry.

In the meantime, I am completing 3 projects that include the release of K Jazz's album, a joint venture project with my long time friend Karega called Kollision and a final farewell project of my own with some of my latest works.

Thank you to all those that have supported my, my music and my causes. Thanks to my family and friends for their undying support. To the fans, you have been my strength. To the artists, it has truly been a labor of love.

Music forever,
Kasino Brown

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

A diseased industry (part 2)

I have been reading a few books and articles about the music industry and they all have a long list of do's and don’ts. The common theme is the work involved. All of these articles and books lead up to the work that is necessary to be successful in the music industry. And they are right! There is a lot of work involved especially for artists.

The first step for an artist in preparation for the work is responsibility. Taking responsibility for the good and the bad is a necessity. You have to realize that it is your dream and while the dreams of others may coincide with your dream, the things you want are different from the things others want for you. In other words, an artist wants to record an album, gain major exposure and ultimately become a star. The artist's manager wants the artist wants to record an album, gain major exposure and ultimately become a star so he can collect his percentage and become an A list manager. This is something the artist must understand. Unfortunately, this is why a lot of up and coming artists feel jaded when things don't go right. The key to staying on track for an artist is to continue to drive even when you have people in place that take on responsibilities involving your career. This type of responsibility is one of cures for our currently diseased industry.

I receive email and twitter messages daily asking about how to get a record deal or will I sign this person. The answer is always the same “NO.” You would think that as a label owner I would welcome artists asking to be signed, but contrary to popular belief; most artists asking have not done the necessary work that leads to landing a deal. The best way to get is deal or get the attention of a label is to not need a deal or a label. The days of sending in demo tapes and talking about “what could be” are over. Labels want artists that have done the leg work, built a following, made professional recordings and already doing shows. As a label CEO, I am looking for an artist that has taken it as far as they can so that my label can take them further.

More to come…

Sunday, September 27, 2009

A diseased industry (part 1)

For the last few weeks I have really pondered about the state of the music industry. Last year I posted a blog about it with the hope that we would be bounce back. Unfortunately, the music industry has continued its downward spiral just as the economy has. http://ping.fm/FTa9L

I have looked at every aspect of the industry from the execs and tastemakers, to the producers, the artists, the DJs, the radio stations...I have analyzed it all and came to the conclusion that the industry is diseased. The industry is suffering from convulution; an illness that is caused by an overdose of yes-men, favors and dissolution.

I am thoroughly convinced that we need to get back to basics and that is making music...real music; classic music. Music has followed fashio and become trendy. It is no longer about be creative and innovative...it is about giving the world what is in. What happened?

Now one would argue that music and fashion go hand-in-hand. I wouldn't completely agree, but I can understand the argument. Music has ties to fashion, music should not be treated or chosen on same basis or criteria as fashion.

Music should judged on creativity, innovation, quality and message. A lot of great music is overlooked because it is does not fit the trend and it is very unfortunate.

Stay tuned for more...part to coming soon!