[FA Worldmusic] SXSW musings

[Imbizo at aol.com]

Howdy,
Some musings in return.
1 - I was at your show on a professional level:  label and booking  agency 
business. 
2 - Professionally, I had, in the past, always discouraged artists I  work 
with to do SXSW because of the costs.   I had never  attended before.  To my 
shame.
3 - However, henceforth I will be changing my tune and encouraging all to  
attend if invited and /or if its logistically &  economically possible.  And I 
will do what I can in this regard by  encouraging & facilitating US tours in 
this period and making tours happen  in this period for artists signed to my 
agency. 
4 - I think its vital that 'world' music be in the mix at these crazy  
events.  The Friday 4pm Dengue Fever show was packed, as was Antibalas on  Friday 
night.  I dont, nor do I advocate that anyone should confine  themselves to 
'genre' at SXSW.  I saw thrash metal, folksy singers, 80's,  style pop.  I loved 
it all, and I am awed by the courage it takes to make  the SXSW trip for 
artists with nothing going for them but hope &  talent.
5 - I dont know who was on your panel, but I bet you had no marketing  
staffers on it.  Then you'd hear about preaching to the unconverted.  
6 - I think your "All Music is World Music" label is not very sexy as a  
marketing tool. With apologies.  Something like "World Music My Ass!!!"  would not 
read like a lesson.
 
Mel Puljic
President, Mondo Mundo Agency.
US Label Manager for Wrasse, Sheer, Mr. Bongo
 




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