MAB Q&A

Absolutely, Marc!!  It is a complex industry that requires being armed with thick skin, knowledge of the business, PATIENCE, etc. and the passion for music that supercedes all obstacles, with the balance of confidence and humility that will interchange for the duration of the journey.  I still don't know the business in its' entirety, but having you as my mentor/teacher gives me confidence that I will, and that in the meantime, you are saving me so much $$ in mistakes I'd have made, time, and embarassment for things I may have done trying to connect in networking, etc.  I have witnessed soooo many songwriters go from okay songs to better songs, thinking they're getting a deal, some getting a deal, only to fall through, to those with songs on hold, to not being cut, well, the list goes on.  Some have realized it's a process, some have not educated themselves enough to know better.  I have watched some friends stay at, what seems like, the exact same level of skill, and others get staff writer positions (though those don't happen these days), and some get cuts and have a solid reputation in the industry, yet still not have another cut for years.  Being willing to learn, grow, do other work to support our lives while we're constantly pursuing our craft of connecting as many people as we can through our music is what makes the biggest difference.  GETTING THE BEST ADVICE, FROM THE MOST EXPERIENCED IN THE BIZ, THAT WILL GET STRAIGHT TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER AND NOT WASTE OUR ALREADY SPREAD-THIN TIME IS CRUCIAL!!!   I can't stress that enough, because all you have to do is listen to what's out there, especially in your own home towns, and Nashville included, to know that some people think they don't need any further education.  They are inherently blessed with talent, and that's all they think it takes.  Well, it's my personal experience & observation that you have to have a child-like wonder and enthusiasm IN ADDITION to EVERYTHING ELSE, INCLUDING TRAINING.  You have to genuinely love people and the connection each phase of making music brings.  It helps if you have Marc-Alan on your side, BELIEVE ME!!  He can answer any questions AND is THE best networker I've met to date, and I have lived in several cities with several people claiming to be able to do what he does, but none have ever delivered like he can.  I know I sound like a broken record singing his praises, I have lived in Nashville for 18 years and have yet to meet anyone, or even hear of anyone, that can provide more support and results that Marc-Alan!!  Even when I don't have time to reply, I always take time to read what Marc writes as it ALWAYS either reinforces something I've been neglecting, or teaches me something all together new!!