ProTips for Drummers

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Endorsements

I probably receive 10 emails a month and about as many phone calls about endorsments: How do I get one? What do I need to do? Can you help me? Who do I call? And so on... Well, I thought I would put a few thoughts on "paper" here, as the first installment of this online "ProTips" section.

I've been blessed, and I mean it when I say it, to have great relations within the percussion products industry. I've been working in this industry for 30 years now, mainly as a drummer, sometimes as percussionist, as writer and producer. It's been great. And along the way I've met some really wonderful people. Now, some of these people were in bands I worked in, some worked in music stores, some were producers, agents, etc. Along the way, some of these people got more involved in the industry side of things, the manufacturing side of things. They started working for the percussion companies. And, because our relationships were strong, they carried right on through to this new part of their life.

Other times, I was introduced to those already in the business, for example at trade shows. These shows are important because it's there that you meet many people in the industry. It's important to attend PASIC or NAMM or other shows and events. Days of Percussion, sponsored by PAS are great events where you can hear great music and meet good people. After all, it's about music and people. You must have the contacts and the chops.

Very importantly, you should keep in touch with people you meet in the industry. Now, this means that there is another "level" of contacts that you must keep track of and, respectfully, keep in touch with. Let people know, in an uninvasive way, what you're doing musically, professionally. Develop good relationships and work to keep them in good shape.

So, you're meeting all the right people, you feel confident about your abilities. Now what? How are your "people skills"? Do you relate well to others? Does your confidence come through as a positive energy, not a pushy one? Can you carry on a decent conversation, keeping the flow alive in an interesting way? Hey, it's all about relating to others. This is true in music and in business. Never forget, it's the percussion products industry. You want to endorse someone's great products, you need to be able to relate to people on many levels: musically, socially, verbally, non-verbally. They are all pieces of the pie.

You need a portfolio including a good 8x10 photo, CDs of your recent work, a professional looking resume, reviews of previous work (gigs, sessions, concerts, books, articles, clinics, etc.) This package is essential. You need one. If you send tapes or CDs, Artist Relations people will lisen to maybe a minute or two of some of the cuts. Make them your best work.

Then you need to call the A&R person and ask if they are receiving endorsement requests. Be polite, not pushy. Don't sell yourself too hard. Let your work speak for you. Where are you playing and with whom? Any tours? How often are you seen performing in public? These are questions that the A&R people want answers to. These people are very busy. If the answer is "yes" to your question about endorsements, then ask for the correct address to the company and send in your package.

Do not call in one day, two days, three days, maybe not in a week. Relax. When you do call, be polite and to the point. Take minutes to say what you need to say. You'll know very soon if it's a "go".

So, you need the chops...all different kinds of chops, in order to secure an endorsement. Musical and people skills are a must. Learn how to use the phone well. Know when to call, how much to call, and how to maximize your time with these important and very busy people.

Above all.......Be Positive!

Do you have any drumming and/or musical subject you'd like to know more about? Please write to me and I'll do my best to address your requests!