What’s Love Got To Do With It? Commentary On The State Of The Music Industry

Posted in Relationships

Everywhere I go there seems to be some sophisticated discussion or debate about what’s wrong with the music industry and what needs to be done to fix it. The conversation takes place in offices among professionals who have been around long enough to know that things are indeed different, and at industry conferences among music artists who revel in new found optimism that infrastructure changes and the arrival of the new digital/mobile entertainment era will “level” the playing field and create more income opportunities.

As tempting as it may be, I am not enamored with or preoccupied by the current problems that face the music industry. Issues such as declining record sales; the consolidation of radio stations; the constant merging of record labels; the lack of longevity in the “careers” of music artists; declining CD sales; or any myriad of issues regarding the illegal downloading of music on the Internet. Why? Because while so many in the music industry (professionals and artists alike) spend countless hours lamenting over things that they can’t control, I only focus on the things that are within my control such as my professional pursuits, income generating activities, and investing in profitable relationships.

Most importantly, my business model is based on my passions because while I know that the economy will always fluctuate up or down, and industry trends will turn hot and cold in the blink of an eye, my love for what I do is a constant and remains unaffected.

In 1999 I had the pleasure of meeting and briefly talking to Barry White at a party for the release of “Love Unlimited,” his semi-autobiographical book on his adventures in life, love and the music

industry. When he asked me what I did for a living, I told him I was a music industry consultant. Barry, who was much darker in person than he is on television and in his videos, flashed some of the whitest teeth you could ever imagine and said, “I don’t know what that is, but as long as you believe in what you do, that’s all that counts.”

I went on to enthusiastically explain to him what I did as a music business consultant, asking him for advice and hogging up his limited time in the process. He stopped me before I could really dive deep into it and interjected in his sincere, rich baritone voice, the advice that I still follow to this very day, “Constantly re-commit yourself to what you do and the money will follow…”

We all need to re-commit from time to time. We all lose sight of what we actually do for a living and the reasons why we do it, but the long roots of true passion run deep…and even when the tree is cut down by unfair business practices, a gluttony of superficial encounters, busted deals, a never ending parade of fakes and flakes, unpredictable and unforseen circumstances, technological changes, and rampant un-professionalism that plagues the industry, you endure because you know that at the end of the day you are truly passionate about what you do and it all becomes a mere occupational hazard that you learn how to deal with.

While many aspiring industry professionals have fashionably set their sights on the greener pastures of the music business, prostituting their values for the sake and pursuit of money, the vast majority will not obtain the riches they so desperately seek, nor will they be in it for the long haul. Why? Because they lack vision, focus, commitment, and above all else, true passion for what they do – which brings us to the question: what’s love got to do with it? When it comes to art, you would think everything, but the sad truth is that there are many in the music industry that are more passionate about self-serving interests, than they are about music as an art form (unless, of course, the music we are speaking of is their own).

And what about all the “changes” that people are talking about so adamantly? History shows that this industry is always changing. The industry never stops changing; technologically; structurally; logistically; and creatively. Adaptability is a requirement of success in every industry because change. The music industry was predicated on change and entrepreneurship.

Can we deny the entrepreneurial spirit of Apple and their convictive belief in iTunes? Or the unyielding belief that the creators of American Idol have in their little “talent” show? I can’t, nor can you, because

that’s what happens when you are passionate about your business ideas: they become business opportunities.

So for those who are distracted by the changes that are taking place in the industry, my free, but valuable advice to all of you is to focus on what you love to do. Your passion is the intangible that will increase the value of your product or service. Your business needs and opportunities will announce themselves at the appropriate time. Until then, rekindle your love affair with your business or art, because in the end, love has everything to do with the reason you do it in the

first place.

Easy-To-Use 3D Animation Software

Posted in Readiness

Computer animations have certainly come a long way over the recent years with all the advances in computer technology. It is now possible to make stunning life-like animations using many animation software packages. Modern computer animation usually uses 3D computer graphics, although 2D computer graphics are still used for stylistic, low bandwidth, and faster real-time renderings. 3D animations used in film have found millions of appreciating fans. The life-like, colorful animation figures have captured the eyes of people young and old.

There are multiple easy-to-use, low cost software packages available that actually allow any average computer user to create stunning 3D animations. Many of the high dollar software packages like Maya or 3D Studio Max require specialized training and experience before one is effective at using them. Some packages, however, have a more intuitive and simple interface while at the same time being powerful enough to create professional grade results. These simpler-to-use packages allow the user to create high quality 3D graphics, produce cartoon animated film, draw and animate 3D models, create real-time interactive 3D content, as well as create and render exceptionally rich & realistic natural environments. Some even have capabilities for designing full-fledged 3D games easily.

Physics engines these days are also an essential must-have for any successful 3D animation software package. Physics engines account for realistic-looking interactions between the different animation elements. These engines allow for proper rigid body dynamics to take place, providing advanced functionality in action-based animations including crashes, friction, flight, vehicle motion, and such. These capabilities, made possible in part by the tremendous available computing power over the past few years, have raised the bar for the quality that has come to be expected of the animated and graphics material. These physics engines are only expected to get better and better as more software technologies are developed, and all this will lead to ever more realistic animations being created.

Some of these 3D animation software packages have very strong capabilities but require long periods of training before one is somewhat productive using them. Most software packages are able to produce the most complex animation sequences but some are also very expensive to buy. Other packages have an intuitive interface geared more towards the average user instead of the pro. Some of these other packages also offer very affordable pricing without compromising on the capabilities or feature sets. Visit the link below to learn more about some of these affordable options.

Are Sex and Relationships Synonymous? Read What Men Really Think

Posted in Online Dating

Do you think that sex and relationships are the same thing? Do you feel pressured into having sex in order to have a relationship? Are you confused about signals you get from guys about relationships and sex? Read on to find out if men believe that sex and relationships are synonymous.

A recent poll revealed that most men were not in a hurry to have sex, and surprise, they even consider waiting until marriage. Very different than what most women believe men want today. Women assume that men want to have sex and this is one way of holding on to them. Evidently, the opposite is true….for most. It makes one wonder if sex and relationship are synonymous for men.

As the roles of men and women have changed, our conceptions and even misconceptions about sex have changed. As women continue to thrive in a “man’s world” they think they need to develop a man’s attitude in order to compete and this includes developing their attitudes toward sex.

The truth is, many men hide behind the mask of testosterone and saving face with friends, to hide feelings of insecurity they have about sex. Many men are willing to take things slow and develop a relationship and wait for the right time—-for some, that may be marriage.

So, are sex and relationships synonymous to men; evidently not. Unfortunately, there are men who are only out for one thing in a relationship. If his calls are infrequent, or he calls at odd hours, if you are the last stop on his way home after being out for the evening, he probably is not interested in a relationship.

If he calls just to talk or he takes the times to plan special dates, if he wants to know more about you and what you like, then this guy is looking for a relationship. Are sex and relationship synonymous for a guy? Contrary to what women have believed for years….evidently not.

Unlock Your Inner Diva for Dating Success

Posted in Love

There’s something sexy about a powerful, take-charge woman who knows what she wants and how to get it! To be an intriguing and sexy Decisive Diva you must develop within yourself the Three E’s of Feminine Power: Erotic Power, Economic Power and Emotional Power. Learn how to unlock your own Inner Diva and power date your way to a great relationship.

Erotic Power means you constantly draw from the limitless reservoir of self-respect, serenity and sensuousness at your core. When you get this down you have a mysterious, self-contained air about you that’s irresistible to men. They open doors for you and treat you like a queen or a goddess.

It has nothing to do with your size or shape. It’s all about the attitude you exude. Self-confidence is just as sexy in a woman as it is in a man.

Economic Power means you earn your own income and responsibly live within your means. You do not depend on a partner to provide for you or rescue you. You must have the financial power to walk away from a relationship if it goes sour.

Emotional Power means you exercise a reasonable amount of control over your thoughts and emotions. You don’t let your fears and weaknesses rule your life. You have the strength to live comfortably without a man until you find the right one who is worthy of you.

A woman who has awakened her Inner Diva is a woman who respects and values herself. She does not waste time on a man who will not be able to meet her needs. She uses her head to look at the facts about a man’s character and behavior as she dates him. When all signals are a go, she then allows her heart to open and lead the way.

When you embrace the Three E’s, you’ll be able to date productively and be objective about the men you meet. Dating is not about you trying to please him. It’s about him trying to please you. Let him audition for the plum role of co-starring with you in your already wonderful life.

Save Money on Used Motorcycle Parts

Posted in Enhancement

For every motorcycle enthusiast, it is indeed very taxing to maintain bikes as good as new – its engine running and all its other parts functioning. We know for a fact that it’s not only for the sake of transportation but also for a little satisfaction of our vanity – seeing everyone admire us, atop an excellent piece of machine. Like any road going vehicle, a motorcycle’s performance is based on the smooth running of thousands of parts, large and small. It is a nuisance indeed to find some faulty parts on a vehicle and prevent owners from enjoying its full use.

Broken parts on a motorcycle can spell tragedy for its driver and extensive damage to the machine. In a motorcycle, the safety and security provided by a four wheel vehicle on each corner doesn’t exist as such, when its rear wheel locks up at 70 mph it could skid out of control and throw its rider. What’s more heartbreaking is to know that the cause of the accident is because of a broken part.

The best solution is to always have a replacement part handy in order to have extra parts for those which have been damaged or lost. Having ample budget for this would, however run risks for your pocket. If you do not have sufficient budget to afford the high costs of brand new replacement parts but afraid of scratching around for used motorcycle parts from questionable origins and warranty, don’t fret. There’s still a way for you to save money by buying used motorcycle parts and prevent you from living your worst nightmare.

Yes, indeed! Buying used motorcycle parts are a great way for you to save money and keep your bike going splendidly. There are just some pointers or guidelines for you to remember once you have decided that your budget leaves you little choice between brand new and used motorcycle parts. By following several general guidelines, you could still acquire used motorcycle parts that are in tip top shape, good condition and will not be the cause of your bike getting torn apart.

First of all, when scouting for used motorcycle parts, especially online, make a point to double – check, there are things to look out for, consider and avoid. Don’t ever miss out on crucial details, like, how old can the used part be? How compatible will it be to your bike’s model and make? Next, it is understandable to be skeptical, after all, the World Wide Web is full of BS and scams. You have to be careful to avoid those who make stupid claims that expect you to believe them. It is but your right to verify and countercheck the validity of everything that they are offering you and once you have placed an order, as much as possible, give certain conditions for your purchase. Something that may go like, they will have to show you if the purchased part functions upon getting secured on your bike. You could also inquire for warranty periods.

There are ways to save your money and still get above-average used motorcycle parts. Just be wise enough once you decide to be practical and economical.

How to Choose The Best Drum Set for Your Money

Posted in Domestic Violence

We would have to play the same sounds worldwide for this to be acceptable, and there are hundreds of different types of music. Your best bet is to request free drum samples, allowing you to hear the sounds that the drum and accessories are capable of producing before you agree to make a major purchase.

Different Beats

It takes different beats, sounds, and accessories to achieve the hottest sounds in the world, so you should know what to buy and when so that you get the perfect drum sound. Drum samples allow you to buy once and listen to the sound over and over, so that you feel the beat as you play it, perfecting each sound and making it your own. You can get free clips to get a feel for which sample is right for you.

For instance, you have some experience playing drums, but you want a real Johnny Juliano sound when you play. It is not enough to hear the beat in your head, you want to feel it throughout your body with each beat, so a free drum sample of this beat is the way to go for you.

Different Sounds

Most people just think about a good beat when they imagine playing the drums, but that method of thinking is for amateurs. The professionals know that different drums and accessories make different sounds, so a sample of free drum sounds is the way to know what sound you are missing when you play. We have the top sounds in the business, from hip hop drum beats to crisp, clear beats that sound like they were mixed by music’s finest.

Knowing the perfect drum sound is the best way to ensure that your music sounds professional, but you will not sound professional without the right drum samples. You can focus on the other parts of your mix that matter if you can get started with the drums sounding perfect. All the rest will just start to fall into place when you discover the perfect drum sounds for your recording.

Making it Work

Our free drum samples are compatible with most types of hardware, but you should know your hardware and its limitations before you get started. Once payment is processed for your order, you can download the awesome drum sounds you have chosen. With a free sample, you just need to fill out some information and get ready to be amazed!

Stuck in Piano Bedrock? Learn How to Get Out!

Posted in Dating

Putting your piano dreams into motion is just like anything else, it takes vision. But once you have a vision of the future you hope for, it’s time to move ahead with specific action steps to lead you there, or at least as close as possible. Action is the key to claiming your musical future, through a steady process of growth that builds momentum over time. The most important step in this process is the first step, which is often the most difficult. That’s because it involves moving from a state of rest to a state of motion, and overcoming any doubts or fears of failure. For example, purchasing a piano and enrolling in lessons. This is where many of us get permanently stuck, never taking that first step to achieving our musical hopes. We’ve all experienced variations of this in some area of our lives, and it’s no different with piano. It’s as though we’re standing in some sticky stuff that pulls our feet back down whenever we lift our knees to take the first step in doing something new. I call this sticky stuff the Myth of Fact.

The Myth of Fact is an assumption we acquired in elementary school from the mild mannered librarian who taught us how books are categorized on the shelves according to whether they’re fact or fiction (not trying to insult librarians.) It’s logic assumes that the opposite of fact is always fiction, therefore Fact = Truth. Life however, isn’t as simple as fact over fiction, because we will never have all the facts.

Another myth is the myth of Certainty. This assumes that unless we have everything nailed down today we shouldn’t proceed, because the risk of failure will be just too great. The Myth of Certainty goes hand in hand with the Myth of Fact. Together these prehistoric twin arguments block the very growth process needed to learn, and to hone our goals and plans toward a clear objective. Fortunately, we don’t need absolute certainty to take the first step. There will always be some unknowns in our equation (like the current state of our economy). What we can do is take the first step and then look for our next step, and the next one after that, which will lead us one step closer to our dream that emerges with committed effort over time. LIfe is too short to put off learning something new that will put joy in your life and a spring in your step, or that of someone you love. If you’ve been thinking about piano lessons, or enrolling your child in lessons, go ahead and do it. Get your feet out of piano Bedrock and hopping toward a great piano dream!

The Benefits of Jewish Speed Dating

Posted in Conflict

Invented by an innovative dating service entrepreneur, Jewish speed dating has become a phenomenon in the singles world. It takes careful coordination, a large member base in the immediate and surrounding area and a lot of work on the part of the dating service to pull it off and make it successful.

Essentially what happens is this: the dating service contacts a large number of its members in one major metropolitan area and invites them to a social event. For a modest fee they are guaranteed that there will be many members there of the opposite sex that they will be able to interact with during the event. The work involved has to do with getting a fairly equal amount of single men and women together at the same time and place and with a high probability of being compatible. Then, after a short pre-event socialization time, the Jewish speed dating begins. At the sound of a whistle, a gong or some sort of noisemaker, all of the women will sit down at prearranged chairs and tables in a very large room. Then the male members will take seats opposite the ladies. Once seated, the noisemaker will be pressed into action and the two single, Jewish people will have a fixed amount of time, usually two or three minutes, to talk to each other and introduce themselves.

After the fixed amount of time, the noisemaker will sound and the men will get up, move over one table to their left, sit down and the entire process repeats until everyone has had a chance to sit in front of and introduce themselves to everyone else. It may sound silly but when the dating service is specific enough and talented enough in inviting the right people to the event, after talking to 50 women there is usually a mutual interest from at least a few. When the dating service specializes in Jewish speed dating, they invite people of similar ages and profiles to interact with each other and overall the events are very successful in making matches.

Teenagers and Sex – How to Approach It Properly

Posted in Commitment

There’s no denying it, teenagers spend most of their time thinking about sex than any other subject. There should be no shame associated with it, because hormones play a large part in this matter and sexual development is an important part in a person’s physical and mental growth.

What most teenagers can do, however, is control the circumstances associated with sexual awareness. As you begin to realize that there are acts that feel pleasurable when done with the opposite sex, you should also keep in mind that with awareness comes a good chunk of responsibility.

You can start by determining whether you really want to have sex or not. Do not allow yourself to be pressured into doing something you might not want to. Though it’s good to share experiences with your close friends, do not allow them to dictate you. Have a good sense to think for your self. Keep in mind that abstinence is also a good thing. Wouldn’t it be much wiser to wait for a little while than go rushing headlong into something you barely have an understanding on?

And just because you have decided to delay the sexual act doesn’t mean you have to be ignorant about it. Learn all you can about sex and familiarize yourself with the concept of safe sex. Surf the internet, read pamphlets and pay attention to sex education courses available in your school. Know all you can about contraceptives, especially on using a condom. This is because the condom is probably the only contraceptive conveniently available to people your age. Be wary of hearsays and information passed by friends, as most are proven to inaccurate, if not completely unfounded.

Know that there are a lot of options available for you in preventing unwanted pregnancies and getting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the most convenient and affordable of which is the condom. Though these contraceptive devices cannot completely assure 100% efficacy, it would certainly reduce the risks and help in AIDS prevention, especially if the condom is put on properly and is adequately lubricated.

If you feel a little hesitant in purchasing a condom in public, there’s the option of obtaining it online and having it shipped right to your house.

When you are in a romantic relationship, chances are things will take a sexual turn sooner or later. If you are a boy, practice putting on a condom and using it properly. Do not rely on demonstrations made in your sex education classes where they show students how to put on a condom the right way. Chances are, you might commit mistakes when doing the real thing, especially among the uninitiated. You want to feel relaxed and prepared

If you are a girl, know that you can do something to further decrease the chances of getting pregnant, like being on pill or using spermicides. Seek guidance from your counselor or your parents, whomever you might feel comfortable talking your concerns with. And always insist on your boyfriend putting on a condom, not just for vaginal sex, but for all forms of sex, which includes oral and anal sex.

And when you are at an age when experimentation and ‘living dangerously’ are considered cool, emphasis should still be placed on taking good care of yourself and practicing safe sex. As much as possible, avoid sex when you are drunk or high on drugs, as these can lower your inhibitions and make you reckless enough to throw caution to the wind. In times like these, you might forget to put on a condom. STDs and HIV can strike just about anyone, anywhere. Once you have started having an active sexual life, have a regular medical check up and seek a doctor at the first sign if anything seems out of the ordinary.

Best Sexual Positions ~ Spicy Up the Woman on Her Back Position

Posted in Affairs

Are you tired of having your lover fall asleep on top of you after sex? Then it’s time to introduce the best sexual positions into your love making and possibly even fire-up the intimacy between the sheets. Adding variety in sexual positions with the woman on her back can potentially lead to the most amazing sex and bring you the most incredible orgasm, if you know how.

First, spice up the woman on her back position by participating in the pumping, the gyrating and all that coital hip movement that comes with this sexual position. Lift your hips and meet him thrust for thrust. Experiment with different angles in this sexual position. This will allow for variance in depth of penetration, intensifying the sex. To get the best out of this sexual position, raise your knees up, bracing your feet on the bed or ground or wherever you are lying down, gyrate your hips as you bring your lover towards the pinnacles of sexual pleasure.

One of the best sexual positions to try during love making is to open your legs wide lifting them up. Open your legs as wide as you can in a letter V-shape and you’ll see that this simple leg movement allows for even deeper penetration. The higher you can lift your legs up, the deeper your lover can penetrate you. For best results, embrace your lover with your legs or brace your feet on his butt and increasing the depth of his thrust.

The key to the best sexual position for the woman on her back is to prolong your orgasm by relaxing your vaginal muscles. Put your legs down alongside or underneath your lovers‘. The shallower thrust with this position enables him to maintain a rock-hard erection and make the loving last for hours.

Most important of all, is to practice these sexual positions, it is essential to unlocking the secrets to sexual pleasure. By making your lovemaking technique supercharged, steamy and earth-shattering the last thing he’ll do is fall sleep!