REVIEWS: HOW TO GET ONE, USE ONE, AND GET OVER A BAD ONE
I’ve been amazed at the preconceptions and misconceptions about how artists get a review in Music Connection. No, you do not have to drink the blood of nine virgins (no matter how much that might please some of you).
Here’s the best way to get a review: Ask. That’s right. We want your permission before we can review your music, and when an artist or their representative asks for a review, we will make every effort to arrange one once you join our free AMP network.
Considering that Music Connection now sets up all reviews through our new one-of-a-kind AMP network, we have been getting numerous requests from artists of all kinds –– proud AMP members all.
I think it’s important at this time, however, to make sure that there is no misunderstanding about how MC will review AMP members: We ALWAYS call them like we hear them here at MC, folks. No favors, no softballs. Integrity matters. It’s why we’re still the most respected musician’s magazine in the industry after more than 30 years.
Now let’s imagine your music is chosen for review and the review is not as drop-dead glowing as you feel you deserve –– what should you do? How should you handle it?
First off, stay calm, don’t lose your temper. Resist the urge to hire a hit squad.
There is a better way.
The best advice is to try to make the most of the situation. See if you can salvage something good from the review. Something you can extract from the review that you can put somewhere in your media kit. A positive word like “energetic,” maybe a phrase like “energetic and ass-kickin’” (*but not if the original sentence reads “These guys are anything but energetic and ass-kickin’,” okay?)
Point is, there is usually SOMETHING positive you can extract from even a not-so-positive review –– a word, a phrase or sentence that can be put to use in your media materials package, EPK, whatever.
In other words, if you’re handed some busted eggs, go make yourself an omelette. Then sit down with the latest issue of Music Connection and continue to be informed.
November 9th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Reviews should be reported with an honest opinion of the musician or the complete band without “sugar-coating”. However, musicians and bands also need to remember that not all reviews will be the same, thoughts and opinions will vary. Any negative comment needs to be noted, evaluated, and then acted upon…provided the need is justified, to make the next performance or review a better one. Reviews are a great way to keep you grounded and focused! Find ways to take the positives and make them even better. Clip portions of any review or interview you want to retain and start building up your press kit or EPK.
Marc King
Music Cleveland
December 9th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
It seems to me that every review is a good one. We do not drop out of the hatch perfect and life and this music business is an opportunity to grow and learn. The more feedback the better. If I keep in mind that opinions are as diverse as fingerprints, it is good to hear many viewpoints. It may be that a particular market is not a good fit, or it may be a pointer to skills I need to develop. So now I get an opportunity to be my own A&R manager. I try to keep this in mind: - You should GO FOR IT as if you KNEW YOU COULD NOT FAIL.