So I’m a huge advocate for transparency in the music business (obviously), and that extends to transparency from artists themselves. I think that when artists speak authentically, without the filter of PR, imaging, etc, good things happen.
It is very rare when an artist wouldn’t be served by being transparent. I can think of some cases where mystery is good (I don’t know if I’d want to read Jack White’s blog, I think he is served by being mysterious), but for others, it’s really great. David Byrne does it, Michael Stipe did it, and Mike Shinoda does it below.
I link to this post specifically because unlike a lot of people that blog about the music business without knowing what the hell they are talking about, Mike has been on the front as an artist, owner of an imprint (Machine Shop) and on the sometimes touchy side of the contract table. We need more blogging like him.
[Regarding Responses to comments: JohnLP89, MetalValue | BLOG | mikeshinoda.com]
Comments 8
yo ethan!
i must say, as a huge fan of mike shinoda, that what you said about him is exactly correct. i know from my own experience. mike has helped me online on his blog, when i needed an advice in signing a record deal with a label. mike had the time to write me back alot of useful information. he is one of the greatest persons i know, and that’s why i love him so much.
as you said, we need more blogging like him. the reality is, it’s hard to find people that are alike him.
take care,
Posted 08 Jan 2009 at 2:45 am ¶JP
I completely agree that artists in the music business should be more transparent. I’ve been following Linkin Park and Mike Shinoda for a while and I think it’s great that I can tune into MS’s blog and get band updates straight from the horses mouth. It makes this huge multi platinum band seem more available to their fans which is something that has helped Linkin Park get/keep so many fans over the years. Aside from the band, I think MS’s blog has really helped the success of his side projects.
One thing I would like to see is more artists sharing new music. I’m constantly on the look out for new artists but I have very limited exposure. People who are immersed in the business should share their knowledge with the rest of us!
Posted 08 Jan 2009 at 8:06 am ¶It’s true, a friend of me can really good rap…
But he has no good material and here in my country it’s really hard to get with dutch rap music in the music industry…
Thats why i said i want to be his manager, because i am reporter and have a lot of connections…
So at least that there will be a demo/album
and he can start performings at small hip hop events…
And next to that i can play a lot of music so there will be one bonus track where i made the beat…
Posted 08 Jan 2009 at 8:23 am ¶Anyway, i hope this projekt will be a little bit succes…
And we hope to get money with the live performings and with advertises on the websit so we can use it for better material.
Hey there, Ethan! =)
Yes, I’m the huggest fan of Linkin Park and Mike Shinoda here in Spain, and as JP Kaukonen said, I totally agree with you saying those tips of Mike. He’s a really really great rapper (the best ever from my opinion) and he’s always helping people on his blog when they need an advice about labels and more.
And yes, we need more blogging like Mike’s one. He’s always writing back all people who need advices about everything, he’s a great man with a big heart.
He works so hard, it seems like he’s never got time (as he’d says in some lyrics, hehe), but he’s always there to help or whatever.
I’d like to be like him… I’m trying it, ha!
Take care Ethan!
-Mary (Spain)
Posted 08 Jan 2009 at 10:34 am ¶yes i agree …. mike is indeed a great person apart from a great musician … by the way nice blog
Posted 10 Jan 2009 at 3:03 am ¶yes i agree .. mike is indeed a great person aprat from being a great musician … nice blog by the way
Posted 10 Jan 2009 at 3:05 am ¶Wooooow , i didnt know that Mike Shinoda help everyone , I just Love His music and all he makes! I read his blog everyday but, I Can´t understand everything cuz my english is too bad, I´m venezuelan and in this place the most people doesn´t like american music, but i do !!! I have too many things to say , and I need some helpt (just some tips), so anyone please add me if you have messenger
Posted 10 Jan 2009 at 9:31 pm ¶mine is jesus173@hotmail.com, thanx a lot !
Completely agree, mike is fantastic! i read his blog religously and the more i do the more i learn, its fantastic. I’m considering entering the music biz and having mike there with constant advice and book suggestions is sooo useful. Incredible musician, artist, producer, buisnessman, and great guy. The biz could def do with some more mike shinoda’s, but I’m proud to be a fan of the one we got! =)
Posted 11 Jan 2009 at 2:30 pm ¶Post a Comment