Psychoacoustics: A More 'Musical' Future?
FIRSTLY...
FOR a fair while I have been (somewhat) procrastinating. A combination of pernicious self-hatred and depression have somewhat anchored my ambitions. In order to focus my attentions away from variable horrors; grand ideas (most of them musical), have seemed like a worthy (if possibly, temporary) panacea. I have been formulating and building a comedy series- The Equality State- attempting to make all my ideas coalesce. As much as that has been giving me something to focus on; to create a T.V. series that is new, original, and above all, ambitious; has given me something to distract my mind towards. As much as anything, my excitement has been spiked by a common muse: music. It is axiomatic to say that it (music) is a mistress which provides fertile dreams; but I have seen a gap in the market. I have been rapidly- and excitedly- writing my own material. An album's worth of original material has been penned; topped off with a bizarrely-ambitious and huge swansong, Vanity Mirror. The band name is decided; the album title (and cover) is in mind and fully-formed; the ideas, promotion and sounds all lodged in my brain. As much as I have been laying groundwork: deciding upon ideas; honing my voice; diversifying my cannon of work etc., another thought comes to mind: I need people to make it happen.
A lack of finance has shackled my deepest wishes. As much as I long for a music-orientated future, I have realised how expensive it all is: even to record just the one song. It would probably require many thousands (of pounds) to realise my blueprints: to make them real. In lieu of a generous benefactor (or lottery win) it seems that the future plans will be very much on hold. It is a shame, but something I will never give up on, and will find the money to do it- however long it takes, and no matter how many organs I have to sell. In the midst of the fog of reality, ideas have come to mind. These ideas concern business. Music business. Charity as well. Let me explain...
In previous blogs, I have formulated an all-encompassing music website: one which integrates all of the benefits of the existing market; but one which offers so much more (details can be seen below). It require money (a lot), yes; yet with that one thought, came a tangling thread of possibility; a brand if you will: Psychoacoustics. It would be a brand and idea that is designed to inspire musicians, old, young and impoverished alike- as well as raise money for worthy causes. Below is what I want to do...
'The Business Model':
False economy and macro management of the music industry, has meant that there are far too many bands and artists going unnoticed; too many small labels and studios struggling. The idea is not to create an imperialistic faceless brand: I do not want to become Bill Gates or Richard Branson. The idea is to parlay as much as the existing market together; making it easier for new and existing musicians to make themselves heard. Psychoacoustics will be a singular brand that will have a base in London. I am hoping that an impressive, if small headquarters can be set up in central London; somewhere between Soho and Covent Garden. The business will have a distinct logo, a 'face of'- and have several musicians/bands etc., acting as 'ambassadors' to the company. It is not exactly going to be Google or Microsoft in terms of empire; yet will be the central hub that maintains and manages the various arms of the company. The hope is that that there will be a few dozen employees, including volunteers, whom will assist with the day-to-day running of Psychoacoustics.
As well as being inspired by some local- and U.K.-based- musician friends (see bottom of article); I have been invigorated by a European pal: Chloe Jane Sparrow (
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jane-Sparrow/324260300959130); a woman whom is fanatical and in love with music. I started to review artists and bands because of her wonderful blog: http://sparrowjane.wordpress.com/. She is a tremendously generous and skilled reviewer, whom has turned me on to some wonderful acts, from all around the world. It was her passion for new music that encouraged me to form my own blog. As well as being chief editor for NYMY Magazine, Chloe has kept her ear to the ground; seeing what is hot and inspiring in the world of music. Being so young, she has impressed me with her busy and entrepreneurial spirit; managing to create an impressive kingdom, and is someone whom will have huge future success. I mention her- as I will be mentioning others too- to show that there are a lot of keen and hungry young talents out there; keen to be heard, and deserving of your time. Miss Sparrow is a key example of someone whom is beautiful and tenacious, and has a genuine passion and love of multi genres of music. It was whilst perusing her blog, and listening to her 'suggestions' that I have decided to take the first steps. I am lucky to have friends and connections that spark ignition in me: people whom I hope I can work with closely in the near-future; so to her (first): Merci beaucoup pour tout (excuse my rudimentary French) x
Below is a summation- albeit lengthy- of what I want to create. I am already 'unofficially' the 'founder' of Psychoacoustics- shall have to rubber stamp it! I know it will take money, but if there is interest amongst any that read my words, I will labour day and night to collate the necessary cash to get the seeds planted; to make the initial baby steps promising ones. So bear with me, be patient, and above all, let me know what you reckon. In a generation with more music than ever; where so many new acts are born, raised and fostered (by the public); it is vital to encourage the good and great; manage them and importantly: make people aware of their existence.
'The Five-Prong Attack':
The Website:
Idea of the site:
There are quite a few music websites at the moment, between the iPhone, Facebook and the Internet. Most of them offer roughly the same things- music sharing, free downloads, and Internet radio access. There are a lot offering the same things, and quite a lot of things are not being considered. The idea of Psychoacoustics, is to pull all the existing qualities of these sites, together, as well as offering new features, and great networking opportunities- for free. The plan is to top Spotify, iTunes and the biggest sites, by offering what they do, plus much more besides. Specific areas and pages on the site will be named after musical figure, albums and events. For instance, a lyrics section will feature Bob Dylan’s name and be themed around here. It is sort of like a music Disneyworld- different zones and characters. This makes it more interactive and interesting than most music sites and is engaging.
Interface:
By accessing
www.psychoacoustics.info, (website currently under planning/construction), you will be able to access the site. From there, there will be a home page. On the home page is a main design. It is an animation of a studio, called Psychoacoustics. It is designed like Abbey Road, and there is constant movement on the page. There will be a bank of about 200 different musicians, who will walk into the page and interact with each other; leave and enter the studio, and keep the user amused. The icons as well as the animation will be colourful and interesting and better designed than most of the music websites out there. The icons and options displayed on the homepage are as follows:
Chat:
There is a chat/Skype option where you can interact with any of your contacts or friends. This can be done via a Facebook-style message service, or Skype. When you add contacts- like Facebook or Twitter- you can chat with any of them at any given time.
Mail:
Your personal inbox; you can mail your contacts, as well as any musician or venue.
Search Engine:
This is a bespoke, specialist search engine. It is similar to Google but responds to questions and searches effectively, returning only relevant websites. It also can record via and audio, so if you were searching for a song title or name of song, it would be able to locate it. The search engine is able to answer specific music questions and ties together information and resources from Yahoo, Google and Bing.
Updates/Events:
This is a diary of important music events and updates specific to the user.
Music Player:
You will be able to create a playlist or jukebox of up to 2,000 songs.
Personal Profile:
You can create your own avatar, and enter all of your information. It is similar to Facebook, but more detailed, and upload photos, videos, and designs. I will go into more detail later, but on your personal profile, is all of your information, favourites, and links. The profile works like Twitter and Facebook but more in depth with fewer faults. I have described the social side of things in a previous mail.
1. Studio and Rehearsals:
This is an animated studio and rehearsal rooms (about 3 studios with control rooms and one rehearsal space). Unlike sites where there are a list of features, you access the features via icons; so for instance you would click on a T.V. or a guitar to access the relevant feature. The tab on the interface is red, and will consist of different shades of red. The specific names and designs for each feature are to be decided, but are as follows:
Music video:
Here you can pitch ideas for music videos to bands, acts and labels. You can protect your idea and sell it for money or use it to gain points and exchange for a reward in the future. There is also a music video store, where you can access any video from any song, and search by genre, artist or time period. Also, there is a software where you can put ideas into and create videos through animation, film or various other techniques and apply them to your own songs.
Album cover:
Here you can view any album cover, and search for it like the music videos. The features here allow you to design covers using animation, photography or a photography edit where you can mix and edit images and merge together to create incredible designs. From here you can publish them or share, or pitch ideas to bands looking for ideas.
Photography:
This is like Instagram where you can upload photos or designs and edit them, using hundreds of options. Here too you can search for photographers and view images, websites and famous images from music history.
Music video player:
This utilises YouTube where you can view music videos for free and have a favourites list, or share the video to social media.
Song dissect/mix:
On this page, you can take any song- from rock to classical and dissect it. You can see what notes are played, and what instruments are played. This helps when writing songs and can learn easily about music. Also you can take sections of various songs and mix them together, and edit the sounds to create new songs.
Entrepreneur:
Here there are guides, links and ways to set up your own record label, festival, or music magazine. You can interact with others online, and get funding in order to set up your own business, and then network on site to attract users and business. Also you can invent new music ideas and instruments; design them on this page and pitch them.
Broadcast:
There is a software where you can design and broadcast your own podcast and radio station. Broadcast over the site or YouTube, play your own songs and broadcasts and get fans and followers as well.
License:
On here you can sell songs to T.V. and film companies and productions.
Band sites:
I will explain more on the registration but when bands and artists sign up they can create their own website and include a wealth of information, and make it easy to promote and get fans.
Sounds:
This is a sound library with thousands of sounds, effects and mixing options.
D.J:
If you are a D.J., here you can mix tracks, scratch and broadcast your own set, via the site and promote your gigs.
Home Studio:
This is a software where you can record vocals, instruments and effects and then send your songs to fans or broadcast the tracks online. There is also software for tuning instruments as well.
Recording and Production:
This allows you to record songs professionally and easily, and provides every technology a modern studio would. You can record vocals and instruments, mix and layer them, and create a professional sounding track. From there you produce the tracks, and broadcast them, and burn them onto C.D. It also allows for album covers to be printed and gives links to sites where you can buy C..D. case and additional software.
Rehearsal and Live Room:
These are simulations of studio spaces where you can play live or rehearse. Via Skype you can jam with the rest of your band or solo and be seen by contacts and have your performance saved and shared. There are options for recording. There are guitar, drum, piano, vocal and orchestra options where you can simulate any guitar or piano etc. and get the most realistic sound possible. Unlike software where it is flattering, here you have to know how to play. Like Wii it reacts to touch and you can simulate yourself playing, as if it were real. From there you can either mess around or record the sounds, or join with others or your band members, and jam together. You can tune the instruments and it is as good as the actual instruments. You can do the same with vocals and record as many tracks as you like, and access different mics, and effects. It is able to work with recording so you can record full songs and albums using this. it is not to replace real life but more act as an easy way to share and record demos for when you are in the studio.
2. Bar and Venue:
The venue is downstairs of the studio and the bar upstairs. It is animated like the rest of the site and acts as a portal for socialising and broadcasting. The tab for this is green and appears with different shades of green on the interface.
Radio player:
You can access tens of thousands of digital stations from around the world and stream them live, as well as access archive broadcasts and songs.
Links:
There are links to all music magazines and publications, as well as music websites as well.
Donate:
Like PledgeMusic where you can donate to get album made, and respond to pitches. Artists can offer rewards or treats, and get a % of funds raised. Can network and swap and record vocals or write as well.
Share:
Due to revenue coming from advertisers and labels, the site can pay royalties to artists whose songs are downloaded, and means that songs can be downloaded free, but artists get paid.
Food and Drink:
Links to music venues, as well as music bars and cafes, anywhere in the world, and you can get alerts of any local to you as well as any events that are happening, and share them on the site.
Leagues and Competitions:
There are various leagues for new bands and directors etc. that are updated and points given to the winners. These charts reflect download amounts, most hits as well as popularity too and there are leagues and competitions for new and unsigned bands.
Music Fantasy League:
This is like football fantasy, but you choose a 5-piece band. You have to choose at least one drummer, and one singer, and can choose from any musician from history. You also select 2 songwriters as well and an album and song. There are various points awarded to each depending on how many times they have been downloaded and mentioned, and there is an overall league that updates each week.
Read and Write:
You can publish blogs and reviews of bands and gigs, and albums and publish them and share them, as well as gig reviews and album reviews.
Social:
There is a dating website and connection site for musicians, as well as connect and promote music charities. There are event postings and updates for your local area as well as internationally. You can also tie all of your contacts and friends in from other social sites into this one.
Connected:
Once you have created a profile you can search for potential band members or venues. When bands or acts register, like a dating website you answer various questions such as favourite music, bands and albums. If you are looking for someone you can either type in a search and the site matches people for you, or you can click on a map. From here you can click on any country or city and search for any member located in that area and contact them. There are sections where you can connect bands and venues, labels to acts and band members and bands together. If you make a successful match, you gain points that can be exchanged.
Actors:
This links actors to bands looking for people for music videos, and also can join actors together, who can share links and tips with regards to music, and best contacts and agents.
Contacts:
I have explained all of the social side, but the site works more like Twitter where you can ‘add’ any band or musical act, and follow their progress and updates. There is a LinkedIn style site too where you can connect with employers or contacts and build up a network of fans and followers which gives you greater opportunities.
Live:
You can broadcast live shows and gigs and stream concerts here and share them.
3. Living Room:
This tab will appear shades of yellow. The living room will consist of a sofa, chairs, jukebox and notice board as well.
Music download:
Like Spotify you can download any track for free, and either play them, or create your own playlists and sections. You can compile songs into albums and burn a C.D., or you can share songs via your phone or social websites. There are also links to Spotify and iTunes, as well as music apps too.
Promotion and Distribute:
You can listen to recommended music depending on your mood or find any new music depending on your tastes. You can then share them via social media, or you can promote new bands and artists, and share acts with promoters and venues, as well as labels. It works like ReverbNation but more in depth, and gives tools to find new music, as well as share and get your own voice heard easily.
Jukebox:
You can have a playlist of up to 2,000 songs, and play them, whenever you like.
Reference Library:
You can view information about every band, artist or album released. It is like Wikepidia where you can find out anything about music, and gives info about bands, videos, links and merchandise; which allows you access to new music, old music you may have forgotten about, and can access any information whenever you want.
Music Trends/Stats:
There are tables and graphs that show music trends, sales figures and stats relevant to you, that are updated daily.
Charts:
These are all of the charts from home and abroad, updated weekly, with links to all of the songs featured.
Search engine and lyric finder:
The search engine is also available here, but is a lyric finder, where you can type words or lyrics and it finds the song. Also you can input audio or video if you are unsure of the song or artists, and it will find out for you.
Pitch Zone:
If you have spare lyrics or ideas, you can pitch them and trade them with artists. You can earn points for anything that is bought from you, and you can pitch and find ideas for songs. Also you can pitch music, so if you have no lyrics you can match them, and also collaborate with people on site and join your music and lyrics together. From there you can create songs together and share them.
Music Notation and languages:
There is a software where you can learn music and translate your music into musical notes, so that it makes it easier to write music. There is a link to a language site where you can learn any one of 30 different languages for free. This makes it easier to communicate with international contacts as well as write and sing in a different language.
4. Bedroom and Kitchen:
This tab appears as different purple and the bedroom has a bed, wardrobe and table, T.V. etc.; the kitchen is a smaller room connected to the room.
Updates:
You can access all of your updates, information and messages here- as well as directly from your personal profile.
T.V. zone:
This allows access to dozens of music T.V. channels as well as archived videos and shows as well, and relevant T.V. shows and performances.
Links:
There are links to music teachers, studios, websites and bars and venues; everything anyone could want.
Creative Zone:
You can chat with anyone; share ideas, stories, gig reviews as well as photography and videos etc.
5. "Acoustic Vinyl":
This is a specially designed shopping site. The animation is designed like a large Rough Trade store and the tab will be a specially designed one.
Music:
Search by genre, period or artists and find music from them to buy. It pulls together Amazon, iTunes and all music websites so you can compare prices for the album and gives you the most choice you can imagine.
DVDs and Merchandise:
You can search for DVDs and merchandise from any band. This gives you links to shopping sites as well as band sites, so again you can find the best deal.
Others:
You can purchase band and festival tickets, music books, apps and instruments. You can also purchase gift cards too.
Stores:
There are links to shopping websites as well as info for independent stores, with website and address details.
6. Join/Log-In:
This tab is in shades of black and grey.
Registration:
Different registrations. For casual user, browsing, solo, band, promoter, venue, label and other. They ask for different details and different lengths but all very simple and easy.
Log-in:
It allows a simple log in and a feature where you can log in to all of your music and social accounts at the same time.
7. About Us:
This tab is going to be detailed in shades of orange.
Studio history:
There is information- fake of course- of how it was set up in East London in 1969, and the story behind it. There is a ‘mock’ Vevo-style video and video history of the studio and founders. It is comical and is also like a guided tour.
About the site:
This is a serious description of what the site aims to do and how it will evolve.
Press and links:
This displays any links to relevant sites and partners, as well as software sites so you can create your own music website.
8. Music Player:
This tab will be in shades of blue. This ties together all of available and your downloaded music so you can play it on-going and create smaller playlists.
9. Advertise With Us:
This tab is in shades of pink.
Adverts:
This is a separate page where all adverts from sites, and venues can be displayed. This means it doesn’t interfere with your profile or browsing but can access it any time from this site. Advertisers and sites pay to be published on the site. There are contact numbers and an online form if you want to advertise or subscribe.
10. Contacts/Links:
This tab is in shades of whites and grey.
Contacts:
This details all e mail and phone contacts for every department.
Enquiries:
Up to 6 different contact email and phone numbers depending on the query
Address:
This is the address of the H.Q. and map.
Social media:
This gives links to the Twitter and Facebook sites, as well as YouTube.
Feedback form:
Provide feedback on the site.
Suggestions box:
If you have any ideas for futures or designs, then let us know and will take into account.
FAQ and Troubleshoot:
If you have trouble with any part of the site there is support. Also an FAQ if you have a question and can report abuse or any issues day or night.
Designs and Features:
Points system/Profile:
As well as a detailed profile, on top of everything there is a points system. For every event you promote or song you share, a certain amount of points are awarded. When certain amount of points are awarded, you get a reward. These will mainly be cash prizes and increase in amount. For 100,000 points, a ‘Fantasy Package’ will be awarded, where you can meet any musician or have any experience you want paid for by the website. The profile will be displayed like an album cover, where there are track listing relating to each section (1-10), and details of everything you have done. There are also graphs displayed that represent your progress and updates.
Avatar and animation:
When you register you can create your own avatar, to give it the feel of a video game. You can personalise and update it as much as you like. As I said each section is named after a musician or album, to include everything from The Doors, Bohemian Rhapsody and Abbey Road. There will be animated of musicians interacting in each section, and great designs, to give the whole site a feel of a game, or as I mention, a sort of musical Disneyworld.
Ambition:
The idea is to raise money to improve the site constantly, and give royalties to all musicians whose music is downloaded. I want to top iTunes and Spotify and have everything any music lover or artist could ever hope to want. As a singer, who is curious about my vocal range, there are tools for that, recorders, and I can locate a band easily, as well as produce music video ideas, and record songs.
Access and use:
Available on P.C., and can be downloaded to iPhone or your T.V. This means that anyone, anywhere can access and use it any time. There will be a virtual keyboard to type, and can be touchscreen, so if using it on T.V. makes it a lot faster.
The Record Label:
Named Psychoacoustic Records, I am determined to create a small record label that will give a warm home to some great talent. In my previous role as music reviewer, Scottish band Universal Thee were one of my favourite 'subjects' (see them at
https://www.facebook.com/universalthee). I have been communicating with their lovely members James and Lisa Russell for a while now; having been bowled over by their brilliant and original sounds. Between the three of us (as well as the band as a whole) we summated that there is a lot of great talent that emanated further north- Scotland especially. Most of the musical money; including the big labels etc. are based in and around London. I have been blown away by the sheer quality from bands such as Universal Thee- a stunning band that are starting to get the attention they deserve! In addition wonderful bands like Issimo (fronted by the phenomenal lead Abi Uttley, and multi-talented wonder Marc Otway), as well as talent such as Nightwolf, Katsuo, Lisa Marini, Steve Heron and Jade Barnett have been featured amongst the pages of my blog. I have mentioned these illustrious musicians as they are the epitome of the modern-day idols: those nauseated by the cheap X Factor fakery and noxious fame; talents whom let their voices do the speaking and are deserving of a huge audience. They are all going to be huge one day very soon, and it is artists such as these I am trying to recruit.
Of course there are hundreds of small record labels- some fail; some succeed- that are trying to do the same as me. I want to set up a label not restricted to the U.K. As much as I want to entice the likes of Issimo, Universal Thee, Steve Heron etc. to the books of P.R.; I want to look farther afield: to the U.S., Australia, Europe and Africa- aiming to help those who have a stunning talent, and need a record label to help them out. I have been speaking with, and reviewing for, Phil Cass' brainchild, Cuckoo Records:
http://www.cuckoorecords.com/. With the help of a couple of his friends and music colleagues, he has raised and built up a brilliant Yorkshire-based music label. They have some stunning talent on their books- including Cisse Regwick, Annie Drury and Raglans- giving a voice to some superb northern (and Irish) talent. There are precious few southern/London-based labels that share the ethos of Cuckoo': encourage a wide range of genres and talents; with the intention of sharing their brilliant sounds to a wide audience.
In conjunction with the studio (below), the label would initially attempt to attract a dozen or so local artists. The long-term aim is to tie and bind international and local acts under one roof: to provide assistance (both financial and creative) to the patrons and participants. Not only that, but provide opportunities for the acts to work with each other and generate publicity and gigs for each other too. It is hoped that I can find premises either in Surrey or London- but I will mention that more later. There are a lot of merits one can assign to and ascribe, with regards to the big labels. They provide a home for some superb artists, yet I feel that too many have limited quality control. I don't want an X Factor/The Voice parasite in the team; no generic and faceless U.S. act: just concise and staggering bands and artists. Bigger labels such as Rough Trade are the exception that prove the rule; as it seems that there are few smaller labels that have their voices heard. I hope those labels can kick the dust aside and break through. I want to to assist them, and work alongside them. I have an idea for a band of course, and it seems logical to parabond the twin desires of music-writing and talent-hunting. I have an idea for a logo; I have some names I want to approach; and have a location in mind- who wants in?
The Studio:
Whereas the idea of a record label is to provide a business for new musicians; and a website would encourage an easy way to make great music; a studio is a physical home that can bear witness to some great moments. I am going to mention several other musician friends, but Luke Oldfield (of Gypsyfingers) has a glorious haven in Little Halings Studios (https://www.facebook.com/littlehalings). Luke has managed to make a great success of the studio, and lured some top names to the studio: I have watched on with admiration. One of the reasons that it is so idyllic is its location. Surrounded by arable and bucolic splendour, it is synonymous with peace and tranquillity. Because of this, bands and artists are able to create sounds in beautiful peace: thus leading to a more harmonious and less anxious end-result.
It will be styled with Little Halings' merits in mind: a wonderful location to record in. I am off to London either the 28th October, or 1st November: as a reconnosense mission. I know for a fact that there are ideal buildings in London, facing closure. Around central London and in east London are former shops and old buildings with no current purpose. I will not be a big studio: not an Abbey Road-style mecca; more a cosy yet attractive base. On its outer shell will be psychedelic and psychotropic adornment: something akin to a Beatle-esque mural; not gaudy, but striking and stand-out; front and central will be the studio name and logo. Inside it will be more modern, but not sterile. Housing a veritable smorgasbord of homely comforts, there will be a few bedrooms, living/communal area, as well as a garden, reception; forming a circumference around the centrepiece: two adjoining studios, complete with control rooms and rehearsal space. Its design and layout will be different from anything else; its purpose: to provide a cocoon for a handful of artists (with the sister record label as well as guests); tied to a centralised and focused motto: Create an environment that inspires great music, affordable and accessible to all.
The Music-Themed Bar/Café:
Okay- not strictly related to 'new music' or talent-hunting; more of a new type of bar. I have long bemoaned the plight of the coffee shop (the multinational one anyway). It used to be the case that you could grab a coffee, in a relaxed environment; and relax. Unfortunately it seems that they are glorified nursery. Aside from the fact that babies and children have no business being in a coffee shop; the associated and combined noise is enough to cause an aneurysm. I have no quarter with conversation; on the contrary: it is just noise and irritation that gets my goat. It is a sad reflection of the times that most public spaces are being child centric; or at the very least, all encompassing. There are few places one can go to unwind without the looming threat of juvenile delinquency and petulant screaming. In the U.S. there are a lot of music cafes and bars, yet in this country there are relatively-few. If you travel to London, Leeds, Manchester, Glasgow etc. there are a fair few: although that said, there aren't as many as there should be in London. The idea is simple: have a spot that is devoid of irritation and calamitous infancy; instead a wash of music and conversation greets the willing patron. It will be have the Psychoacoustic name, yet will try to marry modern as well as 'retro' and vintage flavours. It will be a spacious bar that will serve coffee as well as alcohol. The décor will be a mixture of jukeboxes and music players- where anyone can select what they want to play. There will be a small stage for live performances, as well as two floors. The stage will be downstairs, where as upstairs it will be slightly different. Here there will be a lot of music memorabilia: photos, scenes, souvenirs and instruments from famous bands and acts. There will be lyrics written on the wall, a space where you can create music of your own, as well as a communal wall where anyone can write and share inspiration. There will be vibrancy as well as calming touches; sofas and comfortable seating areas, but above all, a clear credo: a space that appeals to the musician, with none of the unnecessary noise or disruption. It will have a combined feel of a bar and coffee shop and will try to combine charm with modern sharpness: the combination will be a unique bar that hopes to attract many.
Of course places like Planet Hollywood exist; yet are a bit gaudy and touristy (sic.). There are plenty of pre-existing music bars and cafes, yet most are smaller and less well-heard of. My intention is to create- at first a one-off-a name that can lead to global representation and franchise. I do not want something faceless and corporate: more a bar that is unique and fascinating, yet can be transferred and incorporated by an international market. I feel that there are few venues or spaces one can sit and talk; write; listen to music; create music, as well as have a quiet drink or see a gig: all under the same roof. It may seem like pie-in-the-sky thinking, yet is not beyond anyone's reaches. The design would be easy enough-given time; and it would be something- I hope- that would attract a wide range of people- from all around the U.K. I hope so, anyway....
The Charity:
The final tentacle of my five limbed squid is a charity: a benevolence that helps to prosper musicians, and non-musicians alike. Let me elaborate. There are a few charities around which aim to provide funds to the new musician- not many mind. The idea is to filter and tribute the profits and finances gained from the other arms of the business, and funnel it into the charity. Of course it will not receive ALL of the profits: there are staff, expenses and other costs that needs to be dealt with, yet will (hopefully) benefit from a sizeable chunk of revenue. The charity will aim to provide funding to new musicians: those struggling, as well as those finding it hard to fund their projects. In addition, finance will be assigned to worth music-related projects: invigorating struggling venues; providing support to record labels as well as independent record shops and larger chains alike. Aside from music digressions, it will have an intention to provide support to a multitude of other charities. The idea is that an assigned percentage of donations will go to charities, such as cancer charities, those whom support the elderly etc.; yet will also aim to benefit many others. I would hope that the charity could entice established as well as new musicians to act as ambassadors and supporters: whom would help to raise funds for the charity- as well as raise awareness for worthy causes.
All of us have experiences tragedy of life: either first hand or indirectly. Whether a relative has died of cancer, or a local business has faced ruination; there are many things and events that can shape a human being for the worst. Of course we have established charities and great causes, yet few that are music-based. It is hoped that not only Psychoacoustics' profit-share benefit a multitude of charities and ventures; but it would inspire multinational companies, organisations and huge bands to kick in some funds; help raise revenue and assist in rejuvenating people, causes and lives. There is a lot of focus based around self-involvement and self-enrichment; yet small mind is paid towards those less fortunate. This would be a way of helping to raise money, yet also be involved with music and musicians. The idea is that the charity would have a website and you could pledge an amount. Like the Psychoacoustics website, one could download and access music- at a cost; the idea being that as well as purchasing a track or album a small amount would go to the charity- thus benefiting the associated musician as well as others. Gigs would be organised and events (runs, bake sales etc.) would be hosted; with the intention of encouraging as many different people- from all around the world- to donate their time and effort to symphonise a more stable future. Who could object?
'The Ambition and Long-Term Goals':
Inspire others (myself included):
I have about 5 or 6 great (well, pretty good) music video ideas in mind; yet nowhere to put them. I am looking to find a song that can fit the images. There are a lot of different emotions and thoughts that occupy my mind; yet there seems to be little change of having them heard. If it's easier to connect, to make music, to find a voice etc. then it is easier to create as well as inspire others. I am aiming to give an outlet to as many as humanely possible. Music is the singular-greatest thing in existence: something that unites as well as divides.
Raising money for musicians and charity:
Sorry- almost at the end! I want to mention two different musicians, if I can? The first is Fran Galea (https://www.facebook.com/chessofficial?ref=br_tf), A.K.A. Chess. I became aware of Fran a while ago and was instantly struck by her ambition, as well as her great taste in music. A fellow worshipper of Michael Jackson, Prince and Freddie Mercury, here was a woman with a great eye for quality. I had the pleasure of reviewing for her; her E.P. Babygirl included. I was struck by her voice: at once powerful and dominating, the next sleek, seductive and romantic. Her sheer range and power could not be denied; nor her quality or desire. She is a hungry artists whom is doing her native Malta proud. I have spoken to her (verbally) only once; yet have been in frequent communication; keeping a keen eye on her progress. Fran also teaches too, and has dedicated much of her young life to realising her dreams and doing what she loves to do: making music. I have watched with nerves, Chess' plight, with regards to raising money. Previously, Fran has been able to raise money through Kickstarter: relying on the generosity and support of some loyal fans. In addition to working incredibly hard to raise money, she has worked tirelessly to have her music heard. It is a sad realisation that in order to record music and realise ambition, a lot of money is needed- a huge amount in fact! Recently the funding for Chess' forthcoming Tuxedo E.P. has completed (well done again!). As I speak music is being created; ideas bursting forth, and a young musician is preparing to make her next moves in the music world. Fran is very excited- if nervous- about the next few months. There is expectation, yet above all, there is personal expectation. She wants to create something memorable, and something that is true to her and shows how good she is. I am a big fan of Fran and Chess and will continue to lend my support: as a listener, funder and reviewer. She is a very down-to-earth and lovely person, and someone whom is deserving of accolade and huge attention.
The second person I want to mention is Elena Stathaki. She is based in Surrey, yet hails from Greece, but is someone whom has a very different voice, ambition and personality. I have been lucky enough to recently review Elena Ramona (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Elena-Ramona/323928237668916) and her wonderful single Rise. It is a wonderful song that displays the young artists talent and gorgeous voice. I am very jealous of her in fact. She is working her backside raw to raise money to make music- she has an E.P. coming up. I know from speaking to her, that an E.P. is in the works; songs are taking form, and big plans are afoot. She is not wanting to give too much away, but one thing can be confirmed: the ensuing release will be fantastic. Aside from being pretty damn close to my dream woman, she has a very admirable attitude to music. She wants to work as possible to make her own music; to bring her sounds to a wider public, and to realise an ambition she has had for...well, ever. I will do all I can to help her, and am keen to be involved with her music in the future: as a reviewer, and fan. I know she will a huge star and do not need to blow smoke: it is waiting to happen. I know that Elena has worked tireless to make music and to raise awareness, and feel that there are still too many unaware of her sounds. I hope to meet her in the future to help foster her ambitions, yet for now the main thing I have noticed is how much she loves music. Her mind is taken up with what the future holds and what she can achieve: I get the feeling that few things in life are more important.
I know many others that have been working hard. I have mentioned Lisa and James from Universal Thee; Abi and Marc of Issimo; Alex, Ryan, Luke, Jack of Jingo, Chloe and a host more (my previous reviews will show you how many new acts have struck me). I see cases of local talent whom are hungry and headstrong with regards to making music, yet are having to work themselves to the bone to make it happen. It is admirable that such effort and passion is put in; yet one feels that it should be easier for tremendous talent to make their dreams a reality. I am hoping that the website will make the business of making music easier; as well as providing links, fans, venues and support to artists; so that they can dedicate more time to making music. I hope to attract some aforementioned local names to the record label, studio, as well as the charity: to make it less costly for them to record and provide a future home for their future developments.
There are many musicians out there that toil away; too many worthy people that have to work too long and tirelessly- many of whom never manage to record anything. I am hoping that finance can be raised to provides huge support to artists, as well as connects them to a global audience, as well as a multitude of adoring faces.
Make necessary changes:
From my own perspective, I have found recording music a task. I know full well what my voice can do: dear God how I want to back that up. I suppose I can write a good lyric; if I haven't quite mastered the whole 'traditional song writing' formula. I have ambition to record music, yet find that a combination of nerves, lack of money and energy have rendered my boldest intentions a mere orphan. I know that there are a lot of bedroom idols; a great deal of bands and acts that are wanting to poke their head above the parapet: yet are struggling to find a grip. There is plenty of money out there, as well as potential. I am aiming to create a brand that makes it easier for music to be made; making it easier for worthy people to record music- as well as bringing as much music as possible, as far and wide as I can.
Reality Check?
Lot of dreaming huh? Surely not possible? Well...yes and no. Sure it is true that each facet and chain of the link will require money- a hell of a lot. That is true, and where does one even get the money from? A good question as well, but one that can be readily answered. The initial hope is that the idea will appeal to many: that it will strike a chord with as many as possible. With a less-than-hectic social life, sans girlfriend, I have a lot of restless energy that needs satisfaction. I do not see any of it as a distraction, nor an idea that will ever become boring. The premises will be out there somewhere; the need is there; the website can be created and realised; and a charity set up, it all comes down to two different things.
Demand is one thing. On Facebook I have few 'friends'- slightly less on Twitter. Getting the word beyond this blog and my Facebook page is going to be a task in itself. If it strikes the ear of even a few people then it will be worthwhile, yet its future success and creation can only exist if there is a larger market awaiting. I will try as hard as possible to spread the word and get some feedback. It is so often the case that people are only willing to pay attention when something is complete: they will only consider a website when it is live; a bar and studio when build and a record label when it is set up. It is a sad reflection on people's attention spans and considerations for others, yet is fair enough I guess.
The second, and most ominous beast, is money. Just recording one track can require hundreds of pounds, so surely realising all of this will require hundreds of thousands?! Well...yes. The plan is to not do it all at once. The first stage is going to be set up a website. I have most of the designs in my head and know what I want it to look like. The record label is at the forefront as well, and will spend as much time as possible trying to get the funds raised. I can think of ways and means to do that- it may take a lot of personal sacrifice, mind. The initial goal is to see if people would ever be interested or gripped by a Psychoacoustic concept? It is not one man's bid to become a multi-millionaire; more a way of galvanising the music industry and providing a support to new musicians.
AND FINALLY...
It may be one hell of an ambitious plan: why would I do it any other way?! The idea of me posting is to see if anyone would buy into it. Wold there be a hungry market? Would it flourish many years from now? It will take a lot of money to get everything off of the ground: which is a curse that is a hamstring to most people. My Big Question is this:
Who would want to see this happen?
Let me KNOW...
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