JAM: August/September 2001 Issue: And A Chick Singer Shall Lead Them

Lisa Henry

Knowledge Is Power
"So, there was this chick singer who wanted to give out valuable information to musicians in order to help them further their careers..."

But this is not a joke!

It's the first in a series of JAM columns designed to help jazz musicians find their way.

When I entered the music business, I had no blueprint to tell me how to plan my career. I'm sure there were books available, but I didn't know what their titles were or where to find them. It was very frustrating trying to plan my career without practical information, and it was that frustration that compelled me to learn as much as possible about the music business in general, the jazz business in particular.

I believe that knowledge is power. And knowledge of the music business and its changing landscape can give musicians the power and confidence necessary to launch their careers to the heavens. I'm concerned that there aren't more Kansas City-based musicians touring consistently on the national and international circuits. With this column, I hope to do my small part to change this trend.

Lisa Henry (R) with friend, Herbie Hancock

I realize success in this business is defined in several different ways. For some musicians, "Herbie Hancock success" is all there is. For others, the ability to perform consistently in the local and regional music markets is success. Whatever your definition, I will try to provide you, the musicians (singers included), with valuable information in the form of books, web sites and resource publications that can help you with planning and growing your career.

Please let me know if it helps.

"….And the musicians thanked the chick singer, never told jokes about her again, and the whole musical community lived happily ever after."

Publication: The Musician's Atlas 2001
Publisher: The Music Resource Group
Price: $24
Description: Over 300 pages of national club and college venue contacts, festivals, radio stations and more, with addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. It can be purchased at Barnes and Noble or other fine book stores. You just gotta get this publication! So many contacts, you won't know where to begin.

Web Site: Jazz Clubs Worldwide
Address: www.jazzclubsworldwide.com
Description: You'll not only find jazz club listings here, but jazz contacts all over the world. This is one of my favorite sites. Check it out.

Bonus Surfing: The Yellow Jazz Pages
Address: www.interjazz.com/yellowpages
Description: Want to find a jazz promoter? How about a jazz journalist? Then this is your site. Give this one a surf. You'll be glad you did.

Lisa Henry is a professional jazz singer, recording artist and an award winner at the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. Contact her at rochellebow@yahoo.com.

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