Music Modernization Act Heads to Oval Office
The Music Modernization Act (MMA) is headed to the President’s desk for signature following unanimous approval from the House of Representatives and the Senate. The bill, now called the “Orrin G. Hatch Music Modernization Act” (H.R.
A Performance Rights Organization isn’t Just for the Pros
Chris Tanner is an artist, musician, and inventor but also a patent attorney. Chris holds several copyrights himself as a composer, is a former Patent Examiner, holds seven patents himself as an inventor, and has been practicing in patent, trademark, and copyright law for 21 years. More information can be found at either TannerPatent.com or SaveMoneyOnPatents.com.
To Fill Out Seats in a Popular Joint is Every Musician’s Dream
The life of a professional musician can be quite rewarding, but it isn’t an easy thing to do, especially at the beginning. Sure, the real talent is supposed to make a difference in the end, but the truth is not everybody can make it in this business.
Musicians take Note: “Google Forced a Change in Copyright Enforcement”
On Episode 233 of “Now Hear This Entertainment,” singer/songwriter Megan Davies (who has over a million subscribers on YouTube) said, "YouTube really doesn't pay a ton for musicians, I hate to break that to anyone." Patent /trademark/copyright attorney Chris Tanner took note and provides the following guest blog to help out performers with insights on YouTube content and
Your Actions Affect Others’ Reputations
In all my years running Now Hear This, managing, promoting, and booking clients, I have always heard continued cries of, “Let me know if you have anything for me.” I would always laugh because, I get it. I know that performers are always looking to be booked. I don’t have to be reminded and I know where to find you when I have something. Yet, it’s honestly something I never stop hearing.
Meet (and Exceed) Their Expectations
I belong to a church group that required a one-year period as a Novice in order to discern and prepare for a full commitment. Six months ago I achieved permanent status and even received my official name badge to wear to the monthly Mass and associated lectures. It dawned on me yesterday while I was in church, wearing that name badge proudly, that others likely see it and have a corresponding opinion of how its wearer shoul
Turnoffs for Speaking at a Meeting or Event
While yes, I’ve been an audience member recently, sitting and listening to presentations by a handful of speakers at a couple meetings and events, we’ve all sat in such conferences, workshops, and the like for various aspects of our career. (Plus, I served on the Speaker Placement Committee for Tampa Bay Business Owners.) On the flip side, I do a good deal of speakin
Like Aretha Franklin’s, Will YOUR Music Leave a Legacy?
Time flies and soon legends are gone. Last week the music world paused to mourn the passing of Aretha Franklin. Her body of work made such an impact that she was known as the Queen of Soul. Sadly, less than 72 hours ago my sister-in-law passed away unexpectedly, fueling – similarly – a social media outpouring of remembrances of her. (Heck, it was only two weeks ago that I wrote in memoriam following the passing of CJ Watson, a blog that is already the most read on this site in 2018.) 
Six Instagram Mistakes to Avoid
We all are on multiple social media platforms, but we all secretly have our favorite. For whatever reason, Instagram is the one that I’ve noticed that I tend to favor.
In Memoriam – CJ Watson
There’s one thing that they can’t properly prepare you for in the music business. The loss of a friend, a colleague, is something you just aren’t ready for, regardless of the circumstances.