A letter from Susan Crandall, Independent Artist

Indie Music Conference in Philly, 2005... Indie Takeover! Tah Phrum Duh Bush; Playin' Syx; Melodeego... Amazing Artists Were Everywhere! Susan and Ducado of Soultree just got back from the most inspiring and fulfilling music conference. The IMC05 in Philly was worth every minute and cent it took to get there! Thanks Noel, for being such a gracious host. We want to introduce you to some of the hottest Indie Musicians in the country. Sincerely, Susan Crandall

Tah Phrum Duh Bush A Beautiful Man and a Beautiful Voice. Tah Phrum Duh Bush is an oddball amongst artists. Dude is so askew from the norm, he is often labeled a weirdo-nonconformist-freak... "Hey man this cat just ain't right!" Yet somehow, strangely, it's actually quite cool! Tah has been seen on stage doing wide ranges of craziness. Tah can be found in the bowels of New York City on a stage dropping science and knowledge in one instant and in the next he's on the floor humping an imaginary sex partner with the fury of a sex starved bison while prompting the crowd to "Lay that Pipe!" Consequently, Tah Phrum Duh Bush has chosen to represent himself as the antithesis of all; the positive to every negative and the negative to every positive; an oxymoron live in the flesh! To be succinct, he's the epitome of "Filthy- Clean!" There is neither good nor bad. There only is what is. Straying away from the cliche of today's generic musical formats, Tah Phrum Duh Bush gives birth to themes of life that 99% of earth's population can relate to in one way or another. From the pinnacles of mania to the deep fathoms of depression, Tah's artistry represents both ends of the Chi, both sides of the Yin-Yang, and all shades of the spectrum in between. No holy person is without sin and no sinner is without sanctity. Tah finds mid-ground without ever being at a polar extreme for an extended period of time. Tah's lyrical wizardry entrances the listener to frequently indulge in usage of the rewind function on his/her listening device to catch metaphors of great magnitude that manage to elude the weak of thought.

Check out this man's verse. He is truly amazing. He will be coming to Dallas to hang out with Soultree... He WILL play live. Stay tuned!

Playin' Syx Tradin' a six-gun for a six-string!

A tough scrappy bad-ass, Steve was born to not just piss you off or upset you, he was born to F#%K your world! Starting in college, Steve perfected the ability to cut you with both his sharp tongue and quick wit. He grabbed a lot of crap daytime jobs so that he could pay the bills, but otherwise he lived with no limits and no bullshit, always looking for a way to just get to his destination without worrying about the journey. He gives out such strong vibes; that way he doesn't have to kick yer ass. To Steve Syx, making music is a way of life, but he still keeps walking into the shit of the music world. He doesn't usually appreciate all the squishy mess that bubbles up between his toes, but perhaps in time, he will get over it. Steve's wild nature and determination, coupled with an itch to meet everyone he could, roughly yanked him into a new realm filled with Sex, Drugs and, of course, Rock And Roll! The debut CD "Finding MySelf HERE" brings together many styles absorbed by the young man. Songs that span his growing years playing in clubs, bars and even backyards. Inspired by life itself and the experiences people brought him, taking elements from Rock, Pop, Soul, and Blues, and the gritty voice of his southern fried heroes, he gives you his soul on a piece of plastic. Steve sat in with Susan at a show in Philly. He was a lifesaver!

Melodeego Extraordinary! In the style of Otis Redding, The Black Crowes, and Van Morrison - Melodeego has carved out their own unique and modern "Soul N Roll" niche. Metronome Magazine states, "Melodeego has a curiously tight, familiar soul sound that expounds on a vibe and feel that came out of southern Baptist churches, Motown and Chicago in the 50's and 60's.

Steeped in the tradition of gospel and faith healing emotional rescue, Melodeego's frontman, Peter Malagodi, takes those influences, shakes 'em up in a bag of new tricks, sprinkles some new millennium sarcasm and spirituality throughout." Smother.net adds, "The foundation is set to the rhythm of old soulful rock-n-roll that creaks of yesteryear when the bling and glitz didn't dominate the charts as much as Sly and the Family Stone did."

These guys are incredible! They sat in with Susan at Fergie's on Saturday night; unbelievably professional, and a fantastic group of guys. They played Soultree songs like we had been practicing for months... and they had never heard the music.

Soultree - Independent Music Dallas, Texas 75217 www.soultreemusic.com

tish@3kisses wrote:

Drawing on over 20 years of experience in music magazine publishing, Noel Ramos, InterMixx.com, Inc. knows exactly what music industry professionals are looking for. His business session "Looking for Press in all the Right Places" held in store an abundance of useful information for Indie artists, no matter what their level.Each attendee received a 7-page primer outlining everything you need to know to create effective PPKs and EPKs and what situations call for what version.In addition to touching on the information in the primer, such as pros and cons of PPKs vs. EPKs, what information to include in your press kits, how to make your press kit stand out and the importance of including compelling photos (which Noel pointed out might be enough to get you into print, in and of themselves); he also took sample press kits from the audience members and picked them apart, pointing out what was done well and what was done not so well.Noel's hands on approach provided attendees with a visual demonstration which could be applied along with his primer upon the artists' return home. This streamlined session was informative, interesting and captivating.

On Sept 6, 2005, Soultreemusic wrote:

God Noel, I can't tell you how much I enjoyed the IMC. You put on a great party! The people that I met and the music I heard were above and beyond what I expected. The talent and positivity were immense. I will return every year! It was so great to put a face with your name. I am kind of old fashioned that way. I tend to gauge a person by their energy, and I loved both yours and Elaine's. Sincerely, Susan

On Sept 5, 2005, T.I.M. wrote:

Thanks to all involved, this was a great success for Texas Independent Musicians! We all really learned a lot and met a lot of fantastic people. New friends, new contacts and new outlooks. And a great time! Thanks to the IMC for inviting us and putting on this event.

Our show at Club 218 was a great show, with fantastic bands, great energy and a friendly, helpful staff at the venue. Watch for some photos up on the official website in a few days.

I would like to give generous thanks to the performers from T.I.M. that participated; without their sacrifices and time (and talent!) this could not have been done. I appreciate all the hard work you all did!

Playin' Syx, Leslie Bowe, Mister Neutron, Crystal and the Wolves and 3 Kisses.

I'm glad we could make it there and help participate in a fantastic event! It was a blast, that's for sure. We all met a lot of great people and great musicians; such friendly and helpful people!! Looking forward to participating again and to the continued success for all involved.

Indie is the wave of the future, and the future starts now!!! Sincerely, Robert

On Sept 6, 2005, tish@3kisses wrote:

3 Kisses rocks Pennsylvania!

We just returned from IMC05 in Philly and our first roadtrip with the new rhythm section. Everything was going great until Melissa and Amanda got nailed with sinus infections. Didn't slow them down, much, though. 3 Kisses rocked out the kick-off party at Emerald City in Philly with great bands like The Suburban Sound and The Answers. We got great legal advice from Marcy Rauer-Wagman, a crash course in developing an image from John Battaglia, I got a great one-on-one with artist development guru, Jordan Tishler, a psychic reading from "The Mystic" and linked up with fellow indie rockers Ducado Vega and Susan Crandall from Soultree out of Dallas. They gave me lots of great insight into stepping up the marketing a bit. The last workshop of the conference could not have come at a better time. (Thanks, Dr. Jamie Ballard) Definite affirmation that I'm on the right path, personally. We met lots of other great artists and industry professionals and got to play the Texas Independent Musicians stage with our friends, Mister Neutron, Playin' Syx and new friends Crystal and the Wolves and Leslie Bowe.

We were up and at 'em in a few hours trying to glean every tidbit of information from the workshops offered at IMC 05 and network with all the great people in attendance. Sleep? We don't need no stinking sleep!!

Sunday night, Robert Stuckey of Texas Independent Musicians hosted the stage at Club 218 on Philly's South St. What a great time was had! Our friends, Jimmy and April drove down from Harrisburg for the show and we had lots of cool people in the audience like Laurie from Oasis, Kyle Ober, Wendy... and then of course, all the other fabulous musicians we had the honor and privilege of sharing the stage with.

Oh, I'd like to give an extra special shout out to The Suburban Sound for loaning us their gear at Emerald City (check these guys out - they are a-freakin'-mazing) and Mister Neutron from NJ for not only sharing their gear with us, but bringing an extra amp...JUST for us. These guys put on one helluva show, too. See you soon! - XXX, Tish

From Robert Stuckey, Director - Texas Independent Musicians

IMC05 was such a fantastic event, I can't even hardly wait for the next one! I learned a lot, met a bunch of great new friends, and enjoyed the heck out of it on so many levels!! The panels and workshops were top-notch, and I highly suggest that anyone serious about their craft participate as often as they can. The hard work, professionalism and help from the IMC, other participants and bands gives me a warm feeling about the future of Indie and Music, that's for sure. I am looking forward to working again often with the IMC, and with this caliber of people, the sky's the limit! Thank you!!!!!

Robert Stuckey, Director - Texas Independent Musicians

From Tom Quinn, Entrapy Music Group

Noel, hey it's Tom from Entrapy Music Group. I had a great time at the IMC05. I was talking with Elaine on the monday of IMC. I am local to Philly and could help out with rooms for the bands to play at. One room isn't too far from the hotel and is pretty big. 3 bands could be playing at once in same venue. Also, we could work out a food/drink deal with them to help lower the cost of eating and drinking for the attendees. Let me know what you think. Talk to you soon.

Tom Quinn

On Oct 20, 2005, entertainpsych wrote:

Hey Elaine and Noel

Hey... I was sitting here at my desk and I thought of IMC ('03 '04 '05). I'm not sure if I thanked you formally. So, allow me to do so now. Thank you. IMC, both, have beengreat... I'm happy to have been a part of them. Please, continue considering me, returning is an honor; the connections and energy just feel 'right.'

Let me know if you feel my presence will be beneficial next year and/or 'along the way.'

Warmest regards, Jamie

On Sept 5, 2005, Francine Starr wrote:

Re: FMSTAR and Independent Music Conference 2005 Live And Local Television

Dearest Elaine And Noel, THANK YOU SO-SO-SO MUCH FOR HAVING ME AT YOUR 2005 CONFERENCE!!! Your conference was very educational and well managed. I would highly recommend that all Independent Musicians, attend your lectures and workshops. During, my visit at your conference I found the panelists to be very informative, supportive and responsive. Especially, towards new artists. The goody bags and back packs you provided were packed full of really cool stuff. I could not believe "the generosity" of all the artists and sponsors that attended. They gave away all kinds of things. CDs, pins, key chins, mugs and more... "Receiving all that free stuff, is absolutely worth the price of admission!" I would love too be, invited to attend again. Looking forward to continuing, to conduct business with you in the future. I Thank You Again! Respectfully, Francine Star

Jamell Slowjam Powell wrote:

Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak to your audience this past weekend at the IMC. In my opinion it was a complete success - mainly because both of you were complete professionals! Here's to many more prosperous IMCs!

»»»  ANSWERS FROM IMC QUESTIONNAIRES  «««

Thanks SO much for responding so quickly to the questions Elaine sent out! This was not only a SUPER recharging experience for us, prompting us to renew our focus on the positive, (where it should be), but your advice and suggestions are also incredibly useful.

It's interesting to note the differences too, such as some people wanting MORE pre-event promo parties and some wanting none! :)

I also appreciate the feedback from those who travelled far to visit us, and I know Philly is not inexpensive! I can only do so much about that... big northeastern cities are like that.

Please take the time to read these and you'll get a sense of how powerful the environment is at the IMC. I'm very proud that we have been able to accomplish so much in only three short years.

Please keep sending us your comments! Email IMC@InterMixx.com

From: Bill Pere

Positive Comments: Great educational content. Great networking opportunities. Great collegial atmosphere. Great facility.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: The stuff that came from the collaboration and song critique sessions was exceptional, and it clearly had a transformative effect on some of the artists. It was great to see light bulbs go off on peoples faces during some of the workshops.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Allow at least 5-10 minutes between sessions to allow for changeover time. The DisCourse session needs some tweaking -- too many panelists, and not enough sensitivity on how to deliver criticism without turning off the artists' willingness to listen. I would either cut the number of panelists way down, or have no more than 4 people comment on a given submission, with that arranged in advance. Also, some guidelines for panelists on how to critique would be helpful.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Absolutely.

From: David Wimble

Positive Comments: The panel subjects and panelists were good.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Seeing my friend's son in law Stef (the cello player from Iceland) for the first time.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Fewer panels at once.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes.

From: Jeff Cohn

Positive Comments: Was overall a fun experience, great learning from John Battaglia, I liked the one-on-one sessions.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: John Battaglia

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: less pre event events... I got emails to the point of spam on myspace about a different party I was expected to attend every other weekend all summer... then when the actual event occurred I almost missed it due to being so used to receiving and ignoring them. Just do a kick off party and an event, don't try to make it into a summer long thing, most of the people involved in the panels have too much else to do and the "reminders" lose all their meaning when its over saturated to the point of annoyance like it was. I didn't want IMC to be my life, I wanted it to be a weekend in August.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Undecided, depends on schedule and career

From: Jon Dacks

It was my pleasure to be a part of IMC. For positive comments, I think both Elaine and Noel are professional, organized and have wonderful intentions on supporting local musicians. It's a great place for musicians to network and be heard. The only constructive comment I have is I think we should do more IMC shows, maybe on a monthly basis. Consistency will help get the word out. Other then that, I think things are on the right track. Rock on!

From: Jordan Tishler

Positive Comments: There is a lot of brain power there from which musicians can learn. The presentation is low key and "family" feel.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: It's just too long. It is too many days to afford to be present for more than half. For musicians it must be much harder on their wallets. I think, as I've said before, that the whole thing could be consolidated into 3 days. Furthermore, using the holiday weekend is actually a liability for those of us with families. Ideally I'd like a Thurs opening ceremony, Fri and Sat conference, Sunday wrap up/brunch. Obviously, you need to get back in with a few more hip and easy to walk to venues.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Of course! Keep on truckin'!

From: Theresa Morton

I was truly blessed to be a part of your awesome function. I look forward to next year- i'm going to make it for entire weekend. these are just a few feedback comments I have.

1. Would like to be able to perform in one or more of the mainstream venues.

2. I thought the panel discussions were great based on the articles in the paper.

3. I think next year could be a slam dunk if planned well. Overall, I thought the conference was a splendid idea. As I shared with you before I left I can assist in creating an entire Gospel showcase if the opportunity allows. You guys just let me know and I can contact the individuals on that end.

From: Dave Dickson

Positive Comments: Excellent conference, you are constantly able to find great instructors and quality programs.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Meeting several of the other instructors; Ravi and Jamie (Entertainment Psychology) also meet a couple of new artists.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes but I will try to a stay downtown next time to enjoy the conference even more.

From: Judy Samuel

Positive Comments: Due to the limited number of participants we were able to spend much more time with the attendees and forge closer bonds with many of them. The feedback since the conference has been gratifying and we are keeping in touch with many of the musicians we were privileged to meet there. As the focus of the conference was on many of the issues concerning serious independent musicians, I feel that the opportunity to meet potential new customers was greatly enhanced. The conference was well-organized and well managed. The dedication and enthusiasm of the organizers, Noel and Elaine made the experience a totally positive one for both vendors and attendees. And it was a lot of fun, too!

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: The showcases were awesome! It was great to meet not only new musicians and vendors, but to meet in-person a surprising number of Oasis clients that we've enjoyed working with in the past.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Just keep up the good work!

Do you plan on attending IMC06? We certainly plan be there! I'd hate to miss it!

From: David Cooper

It was my pleasure to participate in the IMC this year and look forward to next year as well. These type of confabs start slowly but build over the years, I have seen it before, CIC, SxSW, Billboard, In-Tix. Your advantage is the newspaper.

Of course I think on-line distribution, with subscription of some kind. And hey have I got a solution for you...

My only suggestion is the timing, Holiday weekend at the beginning of school year, not sure it is the best choice, summer folks leaving, and school folks not yet settled in.

From: Scott Bradoka

Positive Comments: Very positive vibe from everyone.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Unfortunately, I was very sick during the conference so I wasn't able to hang

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: A new website would help. That seems to be lacking. Maybe more advertising, too?

Do you plan on attending the IMC06? Yes

From: Ben Herson

Thank YOU for having us. Sorry we had to bail so quickly this year.

Positive Comments: As always - it's great to see so many independent musicians together in the same place doing what they love and trying to learn more about how to market their craft. Keep up the good work!

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Would love to see some more diversity of artists involved as well. Maybe some networking with other independent music scenes i.e. youth, urban music, ethnic etc would help to expand some of the styles of music you have involved and increase attendance.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? I'll do my best! Thanks again for having us.

From: Frank Porter

Positive Comments: The panels were excellent as well as the hotel accommodations (with the exception of having to pay for parking). Excellent networking opportunities.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Fergies on Saturday was a bit of a zoo but by the time we hit the last note in our set the crowd was awesome and so charged up from our music that I was beside myself. The band had been working and rehearsing so hard and we were so new at that point. To be so well received was truly an awesome moment. I gathered some useful info on creating a look, as well as finding gigs in some different places.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: The bands were not scheduled at Fergies so there was some confusion and there also was a sound system issue that seemed to cause us all to start late which caused some tension. I also think the magazines were not distributed early enough. I think one time before one of the promo parties there was actually a good window of time to get them out well in advance of the party. In some cases there was just a few days to get them out at the last minute. The answer is getting the magazines out earlier. As for the band confusion/tension I would say having a firm schedule and a sound system in place preferably with an IMC sound board operator should take care of all the trouble. It actually worked itself out fairly well all things considered in my opinion. One more important thing. There should be more extra large IMC T-shirts available.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes

From: Ravi

Positive Comments: Always a good educational opportunity... well focused, personal enough, and filled with people truly in search of knowledge.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Nice meeting new people (Dave Richards, John Battaglia) as well as meeting old friends (Jordan Tishler, Gilli Moon).

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Panels should have at least 15 minutes, if not 30, in between to allow attendees to follow up with panelists on the spot (as well as to help keep things on time). DISCourse is a good idea, but not efficient enough to really be of maximum service to attendees. I am actually in more favor of the traditional Demo Derby, as the reality of the world (let alone the industry) is that the listener's ear must be seduced within the first 30 seconds, otherwise it is passed over (by the public, not just the industry). If it is really to be constructive in the sense that the panel should direct the artist specifically on how to achieve that, then a compilation CD should be made and distributed to panelists ahead of time (eliminating the need for closed panel), and then comments should be compiled and delivered to the artist, perhaps in a forum where artists can respond and get follow up advice, such as the reaction panel.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes.

From: Robert Case

I had a great time at the conference this year and felt it run very well. I really liked reading the positive feedback evaluations you sent me from my workshops. I am glad that people got some useful information. If you need me to be on panels or workshops. Elaine, Noel and you are first class people and work hard and I really think it will grow. I will definitely attend IMC06.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Some suggestions for improvement would be to have ASCAP, BMI, and The Recording Academy get involved in some way. There is a local office in Philadelphia for the Recording Academy and I think having the local office rep come speak about the originations and its membership would be a benefit to musicians. I like Dick Gabriel from AFM coming and talking about the benefits they have to offer. I liked the Music Guide REP that came and spoke to everyone.

Having some one from the local news paper media, Radio, TV, to talk about ways promoting a musicians music through media. I know InterMixx Magazine is the main word of mouth tool that Noel wants to use. The hotel location is great! I think nailing down the clubs in writing as far as showcases are concerned is big so you don't run into problems of over bookings like recently. I also think if a band or artist is selected to perform they should attend the conference as a condition and not just show up just to showcase. I liked the hotel opening reception and showcases and the closing night. I thought that was great! Getting people to volunteer to help from the local colleges that are studying marketing, advertising, Audio Visual, Communications that are seniors, juniors that will do it for free to get the experience of working on a event like this. Overall there are a few things that would help. I will help any way I can if you need me too.

From: Robert (TIM)

Positive Comments: A lot of good panels and workshops which covered matters very germane to the way bands, venues and people interact with each other and the industry. Many varied points of view and variety of ways at looking at things. Refreshing honesty from a large number of participants.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Impromptu playing (aka jam sessions) after hours at the hotel. Meeting the participants who were there to learn and grow. Having fun with positive people.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Sheraton is more focused on business (expense account) patrons, too expensive otherwise. Venues too far away from hotel to be anywhere near cost-effective; it makes more sense to get a room half the price 5 or 10 miles away and then take taxis or a bus than it does to stay there. Thinking shuttle busses, or a location closer to the bulk of the venues. Participants with cars. More organization on transportation.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes.

From: Ariella

Positive Comments: Great vibe, great lectures, great music, great people.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: The lectures were really informative, some really distinguished people were there, it was a great way to network and every independent artist in Philadelphia should go next year!

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: No suggestions- but wasn't sure when you were expecting me to have the video done.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? yes

From: Michael Driscoll

I would agree that the IMC has positioned itself as a great opportunity for Indie artists/agents/reps etc. to network and to gain greater understand of the industry and "processes for success".

I decided to present "copyrights "this year because while I was at the 2004 IMC there were many misuses of the benefits and process. So I saw a need and filled it.

This year I enjoyed being more involved as an Instructor and Panelist.

One of the most memorable moments was talking with Ravi at one of his sessions. We talked about Ravi's philosophy about "Music Integrity". It was very cool sitting and talking with another artist that is as passionate as I am about positive change in both business and art.

I would be glad to get more involved with the 2006 IMC, and with InterMixx. As an Arts/ Business Professional and as an Artist.

I have several ideas that I am considering for next years conference. Once I narrow it down, I will let you know.

From: Carol Bamesberger

I arrived at the conference as a solo music writer and left there as a member of the community! It fed my soul! Meeting others on the same journey touched me. Hugs from Africa - Carol

From: Soultree

Positive Comments: Love the whole experience!

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Elaine, Noel, all the musicians

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Double booking.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Of course

From: Jeremy Bryan

Positive Comments: I think you guys are very fair on what you charge for the conference and promotion for artists. I was also pleased with the panelists you chose. And just about everyone I met was super cool.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: My biggest issue was parking. $20 a day for parking adds up quick. Especially considering the money I spent to get there and have a place to stay. My only other issue, and it's not just your conference, is that most the panelists seem to give you advice on how to get signed to a label or get major publishing. But not everyone is looking to sign with a label. That's why we're independent artists right. I'd like to hear more about how to survive as an artist without label support. A class on being a truly independent artist and stickin it to the man!

Do you plan on attending IMC06? I certainly do.

From: Rich Drinkhouse - Tower Records

Positive Comments: couple of really good bands that I was fortunate enough to check out

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: memorable moment, actually making to an event on time

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes

From: Coole High

Positive Comments: I always meet a great group of individuals and this time made some good acquaintences in the Philly area.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Linking up with a guy who helped book some further shows in the Philly/So. Jersey area.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: For the R&B and Hip Hop acts to integrate with the Rock acts, perhaps at different venues besides the hotel. Good music is good music.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Yes

From: Crystal and the Wolves

Sorry for the delay in getting this to you. We've been busy recording and we just finished the record and are about to send it off to Oasis! Hooray :) Anyway, here is our feedback. You and Noel do a great service to artists and industry alike. Stay in touch. Best, Crystal

Positive Comments: Loved the Extreme Marketing Panel (with Ducado and Susan), loved the general attitude of the organizers, panelists and the artists. Rockstar image panel was great too.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Robert Case, Ducado, Elaine and Noel, Robert Stuckey from TIM (absolutely awesome person), 3 kisses.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: The organization of the performances needs a lot of improvement. While we realize that the performances are the least important aspect of the conference (and we're well aware that the performances are the biggest pain for Noel!), that doesn't excuse the complete disorganization surrounding many of the performance nights. Probably a lot of headache for Noel and the performers would be removed if at minimum groups were relatively sure when they were playing. That seemed the most confusing and stressful element. If there were a schedule set more in stone about when and where and who, then there wouldn't be much for people to complain about. Showing up to a gig and having no idea when you are playing and having no one reliable to ask for details is fairly stressful and it is understandable that artists would get frustrated even if they do know it's not the focus of the conference.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? We really want to, but whether it's in the cards financially and travel-wise for us we're not sure at this point, but we should have a better idea about that in the spring time. If we do - we'll bring some more of our people from San Francisco!

From: Sean Iannarone - Almost Doesn't Count

Positive Comments: Had fun. Everyone was cool. Discussion groups were informative.

Memorable Moments/Information/Contacts: Good networking.

Concerns - Suggestions for Improvement: Scheduling and booking of shows was dysfunctional. If venues are cancelled the anwser is not to mess up other scedules to compensate. There needs to be a back up plan for situations like that and the bands affected must be dealt w/ on an individual basis. It went a little rough and needs to be smoothed out and promoted more in the area.

Do you plan on attending IMC06? Possibly but unlikely. I gathered most of the information that would be of use to me and am currently trying to exercise it. Thank you.

From: Wendy Keilin

I still owe you feedback from the conference. Which was fabulous, of course! You have my heartfelt gratitude for all that you do - it is a true gift to the music community.

»»»  IMC06 Workshop and Panel Comments  «««

The Rockstar in You: The 7 Keys to Building a Rockstar Image ­ John Battaglia · "(This workshop) exceeded my expectations." Eric Kephart · "Fantastic! And valuable!" · "Was very cool!" Ken Kobayashi · "Excellent!" Frank Porter Vocal and Performance Excellence- The 'Memel Method' ­ Steven Memel · "I thought that it would be voice lessons. What I saw and received were instantaneous transformations! This workshop surpassed above and beyond all I ever expected and hoped for. This man (Steven) is absolutely a master. It was and is more than beneficial; it's life changing. I would recommend that every singer, actor, musician, dancer would benefit from this master's guidance! And what fun and how nicely done. What a joy! Nabiyah · "Fanfrickintastic! I am not the same person I was when I came in; definitely not the same singer!" Wendy Keilin · "Steven is excellent!" Jeska · "Steve is the man! Invaluable workshop!" Maria Marocka · "He (Steven) gifted each of us with individual care and training." Carol Bamesberger Songsalive! Songcamp ­ Gilli Moon, Toni Koch, and Bill Pere · "I felt psyched to go home to write and rewrite my songs" Robyn Harris · "Wow! What an experience! I am your new monster!" Nabiyah · "Fabuloso!" Wendy Keilin · "very inspiring and knowledgeable" Lavon Stevens · "I love the process questions after performances ­ inspiration questions. You are so loving, and that's what it takes to do this. This workshop had a well-organized structure, but was flexible" Brian S. · "Wow! I am blown away. Sucha a great opportunity to fly! Carol Banesberger · "Love it! Keep doing it" · "This is my favorite part of the whole weekend!" Kay Pere MPWR Workshop - Artist Empowerment ­ Gilli Moon · "I loved artistry! It is a life-long journey. Enjoy the process!" Carol Bamesberger · "She's awesome!" Frank Porter The Art of the Deal: Management, Agency, Publishing, Production, and Recording Gregg Seneff · "I learned that I need a good lawyer! Gregg was very informative" Will Holt · "Very knowledgeable presenter. Well done." Basic Legal Concerns For Indie Musicians ­ Vlad Kushnir · "Excellent job with a tough topic!" Lavon Stevens Breaking Down the Myths About Copyrights ­ Michael Driscoll · "I really appreciate the help!" Kris Miller · "Very helpful practical advice." · "I learned exactly what I expected to learn. Excellent workshop. (Michael) answered all of my questions with patience." Tracy Stark Ear Responsibility-What EVERY Musician Needs to Know About Hearing Loss - Elaine Law-Ramos · "Changed my way of listening to music. Much more careful now!" Will Holt · "This workshop far exceeded my expectations." Tom Quinn 8 Keys to Success in the Music Business ­ Bill Pere · "Clearly understanding the basis of personality causes clear communication." Carol Bamesberger Entertainment Psychology (EP) ­ Jamie Ballard · "This was a great workshop. James really opened my mind. Would like to see it again next year." Tom Quinn · "100% true knowledge shared here. Opens your mind extremely." Will Holt · "James gave a lot of validation to my system of thinking and the actions I'm taking to facilitate my success." Tish Meeks · "Most valuable session of the conference!" · James concept of the industry and being a participant in the ndustry are excellent!" Dave Dickson Extreme Music Marketing and College Radio ­ Ducado Vega and Susan Crandall · "Hell yes!!!" (Did the workshop meet your expectations?) Tah Phrum Dah Bush · "Very unique. Strong and concrete." Satoru Nakagawa · "These guys taught a wealth of stuff with their own personal experience." Coole High · "They're GREAT and FUN! Good ideas." Kris Miller · "Energy!" Derek · "Keep rockin'!" Nicolino (Showin' Tell) · "Energetic. They had lots of good ideas." · "Great and innovative!" Getting Started From the Ground Up ­ Docta Shock · "Very open, insightful discussion." Will Holt High Profile Organizations and Charitable Performances ­ Lou Pica · "Good workshop to promote again." Bernadette Porter How to Leverage Information and Avoid Wasting up to 90% of Your Music Promotion Efforts ­ Geraldine Calvo · "I went to Jean-Marc's workshop last year, so this was a refresher ­ will be a useful focus for myself and my clients." Wendy Keilin Lose the 'Louie Louie' Elocution: Diction for Singers and Songwriters-Skills for Stage and Studio ­ Kay Pere · "Excellent!" Bonnie Foster It's the Music Business! ­ March Rauer-Wagman · "She (Marcy) rocked!" Noelle Reiners · "Marcy's great!" Gary Breton Music Publishing for Songwriters ­ Robert Case · "Geared the presentation to each of the participant's needs!" Carol Bamesberger Workshop for Neo Soul and Spoken Word Recording Artists ­ Maurice Henderson · "Maurice knows his stuff and knows resources." Coole High · "Thank you!" Jason Perry The Prosperous Artist ­ Wendy Keilin · "Gives hope! Let's you know that success is up to you! Thanks Wendy!" Will Holt · "Wendy rocks!" Tah Phrum Dah Bush · "Great! Eleven (11) steps to success!" · "Brilliantly explained eleven (11) steps!" Carol Bamesberger Studio Prep and Production 101 ­ Kyle Ober · "Needed more time!" Amanda Nunan Tripling Your Audience with Targeted Songwriting ­ Bill Pere · "Presented detailed handouts interesting perspective." Wendy Keilin · "I got good information about songwriting. He (Bill) was great!" Satoru Nakagawa · "Great workshop!" Rob Thomas Digital Delivery It's Still Morphing Panel · "Excellent content. Knowledgeable panel." Bonnie Foster · "The inspiration to go online fulltime with my music was completed here." Gary Breton Merch ­ Expanding Your Revenue Streams Panel · "Very good information. It opened my mind to many new things." Robert Thomas · "Gave me a new understanding of revenue streams. I learned that more is better." Will Holt · "You are GREAT!" Kris Miller Street Teaming and Buzz Building Panel · "Good panel got a lot in an hour." Jon Scholl · "Toni has good energy. She's easy to connect. Fun!" Will Holt Indie Booking and Full Spectrum Touring Panel · "This panel has great background for what this subject was about ­ very fulfilling. Gilli espoused ­ 'Make things happen for yourself'." Toni Koch Women in the Music Business Panel · "This was the BEST seminar that should be promoted more." Xavier · "Great panel. Very involving, informative, with so many difference emotions to share. There is ultimate power in the knowledge that women express." Win-Win or No Deal! Panel · "Very good panel interesting." Jon Scholl · "In the ten minutes I was here I learned a lot!" Jason Perry Production/Artist Development Roundtable · "Please invite them back. Good stuff!" ________________________________________________ Thank you all!!! We'll see you again at IMC06 in both Philly and Dallas, Texas! Visit IMC06.com for info.