Connect with us
google.com, pub-7457575790012787, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

Business

Artist Management & Publicity – The Christie Way

Determined and focused on success, Christie works with various up and coming artists including someone who was on this past season of NBC’s The Voice on team Adam. At the end of our interview, I was left with the impression that Ms. Christie has the ability to put her clients at ease because of the advice she shared; it was clear that this woman knows what she’s doing.

Published

on

Photo: Shutterstock

From Indiana to the always hot state of Florida, Stephanie Christie is a hard working woman in a male-dominated industry. Christie manages to give each client her time and energy because she believes in them. Christie currently owns and runs a publicity and management company with her name literally and figuratively on the line. Through our interview, she exudes the pride and passion that must accompany her chosen career path. With a warm demeanour worthy of her current location, she takes The Vocalist Magazine through the various and often forgotten details of artist management and publicity. She values self knowledge regarding your career and a hands on approach with each of her clients. 

TVM: I am speaking with publicist Stephanie Christie. Stephanie, could you introduce yourself to our readers?

Stephanie: Sure..I started out in film and television and wound up working in music by accident. As an actress myself, I worked a lot in commercials and indie films and wondered into publicity because some of these films didn’t have the funds to hired a publicist so I ended up learning the business through experience. One thing led to another and I ended up doing PR for bands. Once the word gets out and you work with one band it just snowballs from there.

TVM: That’s awesome. How long have you worked in publicity?

Stephanie: About 10 years and then I also manage bands. I started out working with just one band and now I work with anywhere from 4-8 PR clients at a time which vary from bands, individual artists, as well as actors and events clients. For example, I am currently working on the AFL (Arena Football League) red carpet; I’m working on inviting key celebrities, KISS will be there, etc, to walk the red carpet.

TVM: That sounds exciting. Focusing on the music industry aspect of your career, when did you realize that you wanted to become a part of the music business?

Stephanie: It was such an accidental thing that I think it just grew on me. I always thought that film and television was where I wanted to be but I started with PR and I just couldn’t stop. It takes such time to build relationships in the industry and you become so attached to the bands you’re working with; it’s almost as if you begin to take some ownership of these bands and what they’re doing. It becomes this process in which they almost become your children. A year into me beginning PR, I was hooked! (laughs).

TVM: What kinds of artists do you work with? Do they vary in musical genre?

Stephanie: Yeah, for sure. I actually started out working with acid rock bands for many years but as musical trends changed, acid rock, in terms of marketability, began being mixed with more alternative and pop. I’ve now worked with several pop acts; which I found that is a really fun genre that is extremely competitive. I actually had an artist who was on The Voice so that was kinda fun because I got to mix the television with the music.

TVM: Wow. May I ask which artist?

Stephanie: Sure, it was Benji Kuriakose, season 3 on team Adam. For his blind audition he sang a version of Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door which actually shot up to number 5 on itunes and he received millions of views on Youtube.

TVM: That’s great. How many other acts do you currently represent?

Stephanie: I have a few artists actually, The Chuck Shaffer Picture Show who is on tour with Alice in Chains and Jane’s Addiction, Brie; a pop artist with a Keisha-like sound, and two or three other PR clients who I do more of specific event public relations for. In total, I would say I work with about 7 artists.

TVM: What do you look for in an artist as to whether or not you will work with them?

Stephanie: For me, you have to be very selective in choosing who to take on as a client. It matters whether or not they have something already going; touring, a new release, an interesting back story, content, marketability, something to say, etc. I have to have something to promote because if I keep pushing things that doesn’t really have any content, pretty soon I’m going to lose my credibility. Talent is also a huge factor; you have to have something tangible that I can get behind because I have to believe in my product in order to help others believe in it too. I have to also like the artist because to be able to adequately prepare them for interviews and such, I’m going to have to spend a great deal of time with them; there’s that whole likeability factor at stake. Uniqueness is also a big draw for, not only, me but for media as well.

TVM: Right. So you basically said that an artist has to do some work on their own before they contact you. What are some common mistakes you find that artists make when approaching you?

Stephanie: Over selling. I get a lot of lengthy emails telling me just how amazing a band is. My first question to a band is generally ‘who do you sound like?’ and a common mistake that artists make is by saying ‘we don’t sound like anybody.’ You DO sound like somebody and knowing who you sound like gives me an idea of who I’m going to hear when I listen to your CD and it also tells me that you know who you are. A big part of success and failure is that you need to know who you are and where you fit in. I want an email telling me who you are and then links so I can judge for myself. I hold artists to the same standard I hold myself to; I don’t make promises, if I can’t deliver.

TVM Have you ever gotten any crazy requests from artists?

Stephanie: (laughs), I remember one of the very first bands I worked with and I was hired by their investor/manager, whenever you have a manager and an investor, you tend to have an inflated sense of value/a non objective one. In our initial meeting he just had all of these grandiose ideas of what he wanted for the group; I recall hearing something about spots on The Tonight Show, Oprah, etc. At this point I hadn’t even listened to the CD yet! It’s not that the group wasn’t talented, it’s just that there is a process that as an artist, you have to go through and it seemed that they thought that with the right funding, they could just bypass all of the steps. I just had to bring them down towards what’s realistic.

TVM: At what stage do you feel that an artist should seek out a publicist?

Stephanie: I think it goes back to the whole idea of whether or not you have something important happening. Do you already have content already in place; songs on iTunes, an album, a new music video, basically something to promote? Social media numbers are not necessarily reliable because those numbers can be manipulated so I don’t put a ton of weight on that but a social media presence is still very important. Also a working calendar; are they playing shows beyond their city. You just need to have something happening before getting a publicist otherwise, it’s just going to be a waste of your money.

TVM: Makes total sense. What should an artist look for when seeking a publicist?

Stephanie: It needs to be someone that you trust in that they have your best interest at heart. As a publicist, I have to be very careful about where I send my clients for example I wouldn’t submit them to have their CD reviewed for a publication that I know is looking for victims (laughs) and that wants to rip apart artists for comedic fodder. You have to surround yourself with people who will be mindful of your career and who won’t set you up for failure. You also should make sure you align yourself with someone who is actually going to do the legwork necessary and not waste your time. There have been times that publicists just use fans of an artist to conduct interviews/blogs about the band. You want to be with someone who will do real research into interviewers or journalists meaning who they’ve talked to in the past and such. Also it’s important to work with

someone who is dependable, who will respond to phone calls and inquiries. You want someone who you trust to get back to people in a timely manner.

TVM: Okay, so there needs to be some kind of connection between an artist and their publicist?

Stephanie: I think so. I mean anyone you surround yourself with needs to take ownership in what you’re doing. Your team is the most important part it’s important that you surround yourself with people who have the same vision because you are twice as likely to succeed.

TVM: Interesting point. Earlier, you spoke about the issues you faced because of the interesting requests, have you ever faced any struggles professionally?

Stephanie: Well, I’m a woman in a man’s world. So that can either be a plus or a detriment however you look at it. When I first got into the business, it was a little difficult to break into; to get phone calls returned and to be taken seriously. I just got a little push back and as a matter of fact, I had a band playing a gig and it was not what it was supposed to be because another band expected to use the equipment of the band I was representing on stage…

TVM: Wow

Stephanie: and I was on the phone with the promoter telling him that it was absolutely not going to happen but they would love to play at your venue, very excited about the opportunity but it’s not fair to put them in that position; we can’t do that because their equipment is everything to them. The guy then told me something to the effect of ‘this is what I get working with a woman in the music business’. He kind of put into words what a few men that I have worked with in the business felt. I never really run into it now, especially since there are so many more women in PR and the music industry as a whole.

TVM: What sort of advice would you give to people who want to be publicists?

Stephanie: I would advise to be a good writer; writing skills are very important as are communication and networking skills. People that love speaking to others, nurturing and value building relationships are good publicists because people want to work with them. I think that if you want to be a publicist, make sure you’re the type of person to actively hold a conversation with someone and reaching out to them not only, when you need something, that you also offer your help to them without asking for anything in return. Start small, even in school build relationships with your instructors, your internship bosses, etc because when you do need something, they’re more apt to help you.

TVM: What advice could you give to up and coming artists from a publicists perspective?

Stephanie: Well content is everything; some artists want to jump in before their ready for a publicist but until you can afford your own publicist there’s a lot that you can do on your own. When someone like me steps in, I will already have a lot to work with. Writing and recording a lot is also very important and not putting out everything, only releasing your very best because Google never forgets; the last thing you want is crappy home videos of you on the internet forever. Put a lot of time and energy into your music and keep pushing yourself to learn. Write yourself a decent bio, take the time to put something thought provoking out there about yourself and go to music conferences. I speak at a lot of music conferences and I notice the growth in bands that attend numerous seminars on music licensing and the business end of artistry. Most of these bands had no idea about what it takes to make it and I found such growth and understanding within them after several conferences.

TVM: Very interesting. Thank-you Stephanie for your time and the advice imparted to our readers.

Stephanie: It was my pleasure. 

“Some artists want to jump in before their ready for a publicist but until you can afford your own publicist there’s a lot that you can do on your own.”

 

Business

Jephte Bastien: The Visionary Filmmaker Behind Exit 67 and The Draft

Whether through his portrayal of gritty urban landscapes or his exploration of the human spirit, Jephte Bastien continues to push the boundaries of cinema. As we await the premiere of The Draft, one thing is certain: Bastien’s journey as a filmmaker is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.

Published

on

Jephte Bastien, the award-winning filmmaker renowned for his gripping storytelling and raw cinematic style, is set to captivate audiences once again with his upcoming film, The Draft. Best known for his debut feature film Exit 67, which garnered critical acclaim and won numerous awards, Bastien has established himself as a powerful voice in the world of cinema.

From Haiti to Canada: A Unique Perspective

Born in Haiti and raised in Canada, Jephte Bastien brings a unique perspective to his work, combining the rich cultural heritage of his homeland with the multicultural influences of his upbringing in Montreal. This blend of experiences has given Bastien a distinctive voice in filmmaking, allowing him to explore complex themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience with authenticity and nuance.

Breaking Ground with Exit 67

Bastien burst onto the scene with his first feature film, Exit 67. Released in 2010, the film tells the story of a young man named Jecko, who is caught between the world of street gangs and his desire for a better life. Drawing from his own experiences and the reality of many young immigrants in Montreal, Bastien crafted a gripping narrative that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. The film’s success earned Bastien a Genie Award, cementing his status as a filmmaker to watch.

The Draft: A New Chapter

With his latest project, The Draft, Bastien is poised to once again capture the imagination of viewers. While details about the plot remain under wraps, the film promises to explore themes of power, corruption, and the human condition—elements that have become hallmarks of Bastien’s work. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and moral dilemmas, The Draft is expected to be another compelling addition to Bastien’s filmography.

A Filmmaker with a Mission

Beyond his artistic achievements, Jephte Bastien is a filmmaker with a mission. He aims to tell stories that reflect the realities of marginalized communities and challenge societal norms. His films often delve into difficult subjects, shedding light on issues such as crime, poverty, and the immigrant experience, all while maintaining a deep sense of humanity and hope.

Looking Ahead

As Jephte Bastien prepares for the release of The Draft, anticipation is building among fans and critics alike. With his track record of compelling storytelling and his commitment to exploring important social issues, Bastien is sure to deliver another thought-provoking film that will leave a lasting impact.

Whether through his portrayal of gritty urban landscapes or his exploration of the human spirit, Jephte Bastien continues to push the boundaries of cinema. As we await the premiere of The Draft, one thing is certain: Bastien’s journey as a filmmaker is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19799652

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3904454

https://www.instagram.com/the_draft_movie

Continue Reading

Business

“Spark Davidson: The Visionary Behind Montreal’s R&B Revolution”

THIS IS THE TRUE STORY OF SPARK AND HIS HUSTLE THAT NEVER STOPS AND NEVER SLEEPS AS HIS DREAMS BECOME REALITIES AND HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THE BIGGEST HE CAN IMAGINE.

Published

on

Spark Davidson, a Montreal-based artist, has made significant contributions to the music industry since launching his professional career in 1995. At the age of 28, Spark began managing multiple music groups, including his own R&B ensemble, “Portfolio,” featuring three of Montreal’s most talented vocalists: Alan Prater, Chris Millington, and Danny Blanco. With his keen eye for talent and innovative management style, Spark quickly established Portfolio as a powerhouse in the R&B scene. Within a year, the group achieved remarkable success, consistently selling out performances and captivating audiences with their soulful harmonies and dynamic stage presence.

Spark’s strategic negotiations for Portfolio’s publishing and recording contracts in both Montreal and Los Angeles further solidified his reputation as a savvy music industry professional. His efforts culminated in the launch of his own music production label, “4indamorning,” which rapidly became a household name in Montreal. Under his guidance, “4indamorning” emerged as a pivotal force in the local music scene, known for its distinctive sound and dedication to nurturing emerging talent.

Beyond his work with Portfolio, Spark Davidson’s influence extended throughout Montreal’s music community. His commitment to innovation and excellence helped elevate the city’s R&B and hip-hop genres, setting a high standard for artistic expression and collaboration. Spark’s ability to fuse traditional R&B elements with contemporary influences showcased his versatility and deep understanding of the evolving music landscape.

Spark’s impact on the music industry is a testament to his passion, creativity, and determination. As a manager, producer, and artist, he has left an indelible mark on Montreal’s music scene, inspiring a new generation of musicians and contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry. His journey from a rising artist to a respected industry leader is a remarkable achievement, reflecting his dedication to music and his unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence.

His latest music project IT’S ABOUT TIME -DA 4AM MIXTAPE ALBUM is available NOW

https://www.4indamorning.com

Continue Reading

Business

“Charting Success: The Modern Artist’s Guide to Thriving in the Music Industry”

By combining these strategies, artists can navigate the challenges of the music business and build successful, sustainable careers. In a rapidly changing industry, adaptability, creativity, and a strategic mindset are key ingredients for success.

Published

on

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the music industry, achieving success requires more than just talent. It demands a strategic approach, adaptability, and a keen understanding of current trends. Here are some key ingredients for artists aiming to thrive in today’s competitive music scene:

1. Develop a Unique Sound and Brand

One of the foundational elements of success in the music industry is cultivating a distinctive sound and brand. Authenticity is crucial; audiences are drawn to artists who are genuine and relatable. Developing a unique musical style that reflects your personality and values can help you stand out in a crowded market. Alongside your sound, creating a strong personal brand—including a memorable stage name, visual aesthetic, and consistent messaging across all platforms—will solidify your identity and attract a loyal fan base.

2. Leverage Digital Platforms

Digital platforms have become essential tools for music distribution and promotion. Streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube provide artists with access to global audiences, allowing them to share their music with fans worldwide. Additionally, social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter are vital for engaging with fans and promoting new releases. Viral trends on these platforms can propel songs to overnight success, making them invaluable for independent and emerging artists.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Building a strong connection with your audience is essential for long-term success. Interactivity is key—connect with fans through live streams, Q&A sessions, and social media interactions to foster a sense of community around your music. Encourage fan involvement in creative projects, such as remix contests or fan art competitions, to deepen their engagement and loyalty.

4. Utilize Data and Analytics

Data and analytics are powerful tools for understanding your audience and optimizing your strategies. Streaming services and social media platforms provide valuable insights into audience demographics, listening habits, and engagement patterns. By analyzing this data, artists can tailor their marketing efforts, identify successful strategies, and refine their approach to maximize impact.

5. Collaborate and Network

Collaboration and networking are essential components of success in the music industry. Working with other artists, producers, and influencers can help you reach new audiences and create innovative music. Building relationships with industry professionals, attending events, and joining music associations can open doors to new opportunities and expand your network.

6. Create High-Quality Content

Investing in high-quality music production and visual content is crucial for attracting and retaining fans. Professional recording, mixing, and mastering ensure your music is polished and competitive. Additionally, compelling music videos, lyric videos, and behind-the-scenes content can enhance your brand and engage your audience visually.

7. Adapt to Industry Trends

The music industry is constantly changing, and artists must be flexible and open to new trends and technologies. Staying informed about industry developments, such as AI in music production or blockchain for royalties, can give you a competitive edge. Being willing to experiment with new sounds, formats, and promotional strategies can help you stay relevant and innovative.

8. Build a Strong Team

Surrounding yourself with a skilled team is vital for navigating the complexities of the music business. A manager who understands your vision can provide valuable guidance and support. Legal and financial advisors can handle contracts, royalties, and other business aspects, allowing you to focus on your art and creative endeavors.

9. Plan for Live Performances

Live performances are a cornerstone of success in the music industry, offering artists a platform to showcase their talent and connect with fans in real-time. Organizing both in-person and virtual shows can expand your reach and maximize exposure. Strategic touring can also help you grow your audience and build a strong fan base in key markets.

10. Monetize Beyond Music Sales

Diversifying your revenue streams is crucial for financial stability in the music industry. Creating and selling merchandise that reflects your brand can generate additional income and strengthen your connection with fans. Exploring sponsorships and partnerships with brands that align with your image can also provide valuable opportunities for growth and exposure.


By combining these strategies, artists can navigate the challenges of the music business and build successful, sustainable careers. In a rapidly changing industry, adaptability, creativity, and a strategic mindset are key ingredients for success.

Continue Reading

Trending