For indie artists chasing the dream of getting "signed" - they're met with disappointing realities and empty promises. Many find themselves semi-famous yet still broke, only to eventually be released and discarded from the very label that courted them due to less-than-adequate record sales. Big cash advances? Gone. Huge touring budgets for new artists? Nope. Production budget for new songs and videos? Not a chance.
So why in the hell would any artists want to get signed or even more insane: Why would anyone try to start a new record label in this environment???
Well, it is insane. I guess part of that is the appeal. But more than being crazy, it's the reality that the previous ten year decline of traditional labels and the record industry should've taught us something. In addition, the propulsion of technology into our personalized entertainment experience has changed the game and for those who have been paying attention, there is an incredible opportunity to take this entire boat in another direction.
After being a massive music fan and tech junkie for most of my life, I always had ideas on how to improve the situation. It wasn't something that came overnight. In fact, I had to challenge myself, experiment and revise the plan several dozen times before I came up with something that might work. And it wasn't good enough that I liked the idea. I had to convince the artist community, the business community, the partners, investors and of course - the rest of the industry that I had something worth paying attention to.
I also keep in mind that most extraordinary endeavors aren't accomplished alone. With a massive dose of faith and the incredible support of an amazing partner, family, friends and willing musicians- IME was able to take form. Their encouragement, outside perspectives and additional experiences and insights continue to help us grow and change.
Today, we think we've "got" it. In November 2010 I teamed with a group of investors to officially launch "Itchy Metal Entertainment" which would eventually be branded as IME Records. With die-hard enthusiasm and balls-out commitment to never give up, we have grown over 1000% and expanded into 4 countries all within the first quarter of existence.
For our business partners - we present an extremely unique and appealing approach to help expand their brands and access new markets that were previously inaccessible, unmanageable and immeasurable. That's all changed.
For our artists, we allow full control, non-exclusivity and an opportunity to combine ambition and energy with a business model that directly supports the very things that fuel their passion: the ability to create, perform and share music - and profit from it.
Like Coca-Cola and KFC, the "secret recipe" for success isn't something that everyone can duplicate because it's not as simple as copying the ingredients or traveling the same path. The "magic" is in the people that are involved and leadership that is willing to risk everything to make a difference... for the love of music.
So if you LIKE to rock, please visit: www.itchymetal.com and support us with your "click"
If you're an artist, drop us a comment or submission. If you're a business, we'd love to talk to you about working better, together. And if you're a fan, come enjoy content from people just like you - Regular folks trying to make their name in the world through the art that they share.
Welcome to ITCHY METAL!
