Sparkie's iZMO

Jewell Sparks aka Sparkie Brown
http://twitter.com/sparkiebrown

BANDiZMO.com - US Business Development/Public Relations
Strategic Diversity Group LLC - President
"Bridging the Gap"

Its All About You

September 2009

Earlier this month in the states, the MTV VMA Awards aired, and what a night it was.  Reflecting back, I was reminded of how wonderful music is and how music brings together everyone regardless of ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, or profession. I mention the VMAs only to say, that as independent artists, I am sure you all dream of performing on stage with people like Janet Jackson, Beyonce, Pink, and others.  I just want to remind you that you are just as talented and successful as those artists, but maybe you haven’t been exposed to those who can make it happen with you and for you.  It is my hope that this column will expose you and your talent to the world. To me, the highlight of the MTV VMA Awards show was the visual of Taylor Swift performing in a subway station, then taking the train to Radio City Music Hall.  This particular scene was very symbolic and was an amazing tribute to all the amazing independent artists in the world who may never get a shot at being visible worldwide, but don’t stop believing in yourself, your talent, or your art.  When the time is right, things will happen for you.  Just don’t give up, follow your dreams, share them, and you never know what may happen.

It is my mission to as the US Business Development/Public Relations Director for BANDiZMO.com to dedicate my column to talented artists who should be known worldwide. I want you to gain exposure to brands, film, and independent music labels.  I want you to learn how to brand yourself, and place a value on your talent.  We at BANDiZMO.com know that there are so many hard working musicians out there, “Doin the Hussle,” as they say, and I want you to share your stories with us, so we can share them with the rest of the world.  All it takes is a little bit of recognition to get things jumpstarted.  I must add that success isn’t just appearing on the VMA awards or the Grammys, its accomplishing your goal of creating music that touches and changes  the lives of others whether it is an individual, a community, a corporate entity, or yourself.

Every month, I will give you an opportunity to submit your music, national events, and your story. All submissions must be made by the 30th of each month.   I am interested in highlighting music from the following genres: Jazz, Pop, Country, Acoustic, Spoken Word, R&B Soul, Rhythm and Blues, DJ Electronica, Latin, and Hip Hop. If I didn’t mention your genre, please don’t hesitate to send me a link to your work as well.  In my column I will also highlight events for unsigned artists all over the world.  It is my goal to highlight at least ten events a month which I feel are examples of happenings which promote artist development, aid with exposure, and are eclectic in nature.  Please feel free to submit photos of various events as well.   I am quite inspired by stories which highlight the quality of one’s life.  Everyone has a story as to how and why they wanted to pursue their career of choice.  I want to hear about that moment in your life that changed your life and how music has touched your life and the lives of others.   Please submit links, photos, events, and stories to jewell@BANDiZMO.com.

Oh, and before I forget, four artists have recently touched my life with their music in the states.  Their names are; John West, Jackie Rae, Semaj and Tariq Mirza singer and host of TEE-M's UNsigned Music Show w/ Mike Stark .   These artists will soon be part of our family, and next month, I look forward to telling the world who you are, who your favorite unsigned artist is, what events are taking place, and last but not least, your personal story.  I can’t highlight everything, but I will do my best. I look forward to hearing from you. 

Until October,
 
Jewell Sparks aka Sparkie Brown