Are you the type of person who believes everything you see on television, hear on the radio and read in the newspaper? Are you in the know? Or do you think you are? Recent events have made me finally realize there aren't too many people in the know, and many people who think they are.
I am working an album to college radio right now that I will not go through the trouble of naming for you, as to protect the parties involved. The album is doing fairly well at the college level, but isn't making the charts just yet.
We recently came to the end of the campaign, and it was time for renewal. The artist argued with us about how he was having money problems and couldn't afford to continue for the normal renewal period of time. That's no big deal, it happens all the time. This is the story he gave the boss. He then asked for me.
I hold no position of great power within the department or within the company, for that matter. Being part of a small company, we all have our roles and have to work together to achieve a common goal. I am not the head of my department, but I tend to deal with most client-related concerns and gripes.
When he had me on the phone, it was time to play the game. He had the idea in his head that I am the type of person who can be easily motivated by money. After all, we all know money talks.
He opened with some chit-chat about how his album was doing with college radio. We discussed a few points, but nothing out of the ordinary. He then asked me if I was Italian. I replied with a simple "yes." I found it odd.
"Look Rex, I'm going to cut to the chase," he said. "If there were $1,000 at stake, would you be motivated by it?"
"What do I have to do, kill someone?" I replied.
"No, (he laughs) nothing that bad. I just understand how this business works and I'd like to let you know there is $1,000 on the table. It's yours to do with as you please, if I get what I want."
"Of course, what do you want?"
"I want my album to do really well. I think you understand what I'm talking about."
"This is a craps game. Whether you put down five or a grand, the only thing that changes is how much you stand to lose. In this business you cannot guarantee anything."
"Sure, but we understand each other right?" "Yes."
We end our conversation and I begin thinking about what transpired. Why did he ask me if I was Italian and what does this have anything to do with our conversation? Why did he tell my boss he couldn't afford to continue on, but still offer me $1,000? And, why only me?
So that brings me to my next line of questioning; how does he think the music industry works? I imagine it's, "Find the Italian guy, 'cause they're always the shady ones, and offer him $1,000 to do what he's already doing on a daily basis. This will motivate him and get him to do what he's already doing that I don't think he's doing."
In actuality, I'll do what I normally do, and try to get the album on the charts. It's my job. If I get an extra grand out of it, it's a bonus.
I'm sure everyone has his or her own ideas about how this industry works, and most of those ideas are probably incorrect. There are tons of stories going around about snorting cocaine off a secretary's rear or lighting cigars with Franklins.
Don't just assume that everything you see, read or hear is completely factual. You are never really in the know until you make the effort to seek out the truth.
Write to Rex at rantinrex@hotmail.com
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
