INDUSTRY LISTINGS *******************************************UPDATED 5/1/2009******************************************* TAXI, 5010 N. Parkway Calabasas, Suite 200, Calabasas, CA 91302 Please call 818-222-2464 if you have problems or questions Dear Passengers, I got a bunch of emails and phone calls after my last note in which I told you that 70% of the members who were offered a deal from one of our listing companies didn t answer the company s emails. The majority of the members who contacted me said they were afraid of responding to the company because they weren t sure if the deal offer was real. My question is, Why didn t you contact TAXI to find out? My answer would have been, This is a gold-plated company owned and run by two of my favorite people in the film/tv music business. I ve known them for twenty years. They ve logged dozens of placements (if not hundreds) for our members over the years. They typically get some of the largest sync fees we ve seen. They generally get placements on network TV shows and feature films. Their deal is non-exclusive. It s a 50/50 split, and if I were personally producing film/tv music, this would be the one company I d want representing the majority of my music. Beyond extolling this particular company s credentials, I want you to know that we won t run a listing unless we ve vetted the company first. We work hard to make sure the companies we hook you up with are not only on the level, but organizations you ll be happy to work with! During our seventeen years in business and the more than one thousand companies we ve run listings for, we ve only had three that made it through our vetting process that turned out to be less than wonderful. And in those three cases, the companies initially checked out okay but then changed some aspect of they way they worked after we ran the listing. If you do the math, you stand a 99.7% chance that the companies we hook you up with are Kosher. That would be a great batting average in any industry! You may or may not like the specifics of a particular company s deal. You might not hit it off with the person you re dealing with at the company (although it s really rare that they are jerks). You might want to pass on a specific deal offer because you signed another deal in the interim with a different company. But, no matter what the circumstance is, you should always get back to any and every company that offers you a deal deal or no deal! It s good business not to burn bridges and it s just plain polite. And once again, if you get a deal offer from a company, and you freeze with anxiety, call us up to find out more about the company. Better yet, call or email the company itself. Get to know them. Begin a relationship. You never know when that contact will come in handy ;-) Talk to you soon, Michael The World!s Leading Independent A & R Company **************************************************************************************************************** PLEASE NOTE! If you are submitting by mail (ground submissions) and sending in a CD, please enclose a S.A.S.E. (Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope) if you would like a response. Thank you! AAA/Alternative /Modern Rock Listings (also see Americana, Contemporary Christian, Film/TV, Rock, Singer/Songwriter listings, etc.): AAA POP/ROCK ARTISTS/BANDS in the full range of The Fray, Lifehouse, Gavin DeGraw, etc., wanted by A&R Manager at a Major Label looking to sign new acts. This A&R Mgr. is looking for the full package, meaning you must have a high level vocal talent along with great radio-friendly songs with obvious hooks and a commercially marketable image. They are only looking for fully developed, A Level acts. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 5, 2009. TAXI #S090505PR INDIE POP SONGS in the range of The Ting Tings, MGMT, Lady GaGa, etc. are needed by an East Coast Music Library/Publisher for the purpose of Film/TV placements and licensing. This company has signed and placed dozen of TAXI songs, and offers a non-exclusive deal. Songs that have universal lyrics that are general enough to apply to many different scenarios/scenes/plots/etc. are preferred. Musically, the songs need to be uptempo and sound radio-ready and current. Male or female vocals are just fine, but be sure the performances are fantastic! No uncleared samples and songs MUST be recorded at Broadcast Quality (excellent home recordings should be fine). Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Monday, May 11, 2009. TAXI #S090511IP INDIE ROCK SONGS and INSTRUMENTALS a la The Airborne Toxic Event, The Boxer Rebellion, Carolina Liar, etc. are wanted by the Director of Music at an L.A. based Music Library/Publisher with current MAJOR film and TV placements (e.g. Film: Twilight, I Love You, Man, He s Just Not That Into You, Television: Ugly Betty, True Blood, Beverly Hills 90210, and many more). He is only looking for record label quality music meaning that the bar is very high on this one. You must own 100% of your song. Make sure your songs are sample free and clean -- no profanity. Broadcast quality needed [great sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics (if applicable). Photo and bio are optional but it s a good idea to include them in the submission because the company does feature the artists they use on their web site. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, May 14, 2009. TAXI #Y090514IR 1
AAA/Alternative /Modern Rock Listings (continued): ALT ROCK/ROCK BANDS in the wide range of Kings of Leon, The Raconteurs, White Stripes, Deftones, Rage Against the Machine, Green Day, etc. are sought after by the President of an Independent Record Label with Major label signings already on his roster. The President of this label will be screening the submissions himself. He is looking for the whole package - most importantly, a hip, fresh and credible sound and vibe to go along with amazing vocals and engaging lyrics. Writing and lyrics must be killer! Touring and sales history always helps but is not a must. He wants credible while maintaining a high level of commercial appeal. Overall, he said he is looking for writers and vocals with a soulful vibe and focused image and attitude. Male or female vocals are okay. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include PHOTO/BIO. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 19, 2009. TAXI #Y090519AR POP/ROCK SONGS in the wide open range of Maroon 5 to Pink to Kelly Clarkson, etc. are wanted by the VP of Music Licensing at a Music Production Company that places songs in high profile television shows and ad campaigns. He wants to hear material from artists/bands that has commercial appeal with universal lyrics. Songs should have great hooks that can help make a developing story line in a show really stand out and that are still running through your head long after the song and scene are over. Broadcast Quality is needed (excellent sounding home recordings are fine). Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Thursday, May 28, 2009. TAXI #S090528PR NEW LISTING - POP/ROCK SONGS WITH A CONSCIENCE a la The Green Children, etc. are needed by the Manager of A&R at a Major Label for an enchanting musical duo from Norway and England, of which one is a female lead singer. They are looking for Save the World type songs that promote positive solutions to conquer poverty, educate children, etc. Lyrically and melodically, the compositions should be contemporary and have a passionate, intriguing tone to them, but they should be on lighter side, they definitely don t want to hear heavy, tedious messages. The music in this submission is as equally important as the lyrics. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Tuesday, June 2, 2009. TAXI #S090602PR NEW LISTING - INDIE ROCK SONGS a la The Airborne Toxic Event, Carolina Liar, The Killers, etc., are wanted by a Licensing Agent of a prestigious Boutique Publisher (primarily owned by a Beatle) who is looking to expand their catalog into Indie artists and writers who would be great for today's Film and TV market. They have placed many, many songs in major Films and television shows, along with commercials and videogames. They are looking for a select group of songs from artists whose music is both uniquely inspired as well as commercially viable. They specialize in pre-cleared tracks, so you must own your own composition, both on the master and publishing side. No uncleared samples! Broadcast quality is needed (great sounding home recordings are fine). Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. Photo and bio are optional. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Thursday, June 11, 2009. TAXI #S090611IR NEW LISTING - BRIT POP BANDS a la Franz Ferdinand, The Killers, Kaiser Chiefs, etc. are wanted by a successful manager whose very TAXI friendly and whose last band was signed to a major label and went platinum. He said he is looking for active bands who will be commercially ready for radio and that have big, juicy hits! Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Tuesday, June 16, 2009. TAXI #S090616BP NEW LISTING - EPIC ALT ROCK SONGS WITH FEMALE VOCALS a la Evanescence, are wanted by a successful Music Publisher based in L.A. who has secured tons of Film/TV placements for many TAXI members. They are looking for really powerful vocals, so your presentation must be stellar along with an outstanding song arrangement to compliment it. They offer a non-exclusive, 50/50 split deal - you keep your original copyrights. Broadcast quality needed (great-sounding home recordings are OK). Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, June 18, 2009. TAXI #Y090618AR NEW LISTING - INDIE ROCK ARTISTS/BANDS in the wide variety of Arctic Monkeys, Pavement, Rilo Kiley, Brian Jonestown Massacre, the Pixies, Sleater- Kinney, Sonic Youth, Deathcab for Cutie, etc.. are sought after by a very credible and well-respected Indie label with solid distribution both nationally and internationally. They are looking for edgy and compelling acts who have strong songwriting skills and a great vocal sound. They are looking for songs for compilation CDs of unsigned artists, as well as exceptional artists to sign to their label, and are always interested in distributing CDs that are already mastered and ready to go. Please note: if you are submitting your CD for distribution, it has to be Master Quality. If you are submitting it for consideration of being put on the compilation CD or to be signed to the label, your demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. On your bio, please make sure to include any fanbase or touring history that you have experienced. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Friday, June 19, 2009. TAXI #S090619IR Adult Contemporary Listings: EXTRAORDINARY HOT AC SONGWRITERS (not Artists!) are sought after by a very successful Independent Publisher and Hit Producer who is looking for great writers to add to his roster that is already filled with hit songwriters. Think of HOT Adult Contemporary type songs by Natasha Bedingfield, Maroon 5, etc. He is looking for writers that are driven and willing to work hard for their success. This is a serious listing, with a heavy focus on quality. He would love to find someone who is a versatile songwriter who can also collaborate. He s open to both male and female writers, but the songs MUST be outstanding! He ll be interested in very current-sounding material that also has an old school depth to your songwriting. He s willing to develop, but the more experience that you have, the stronger impression you re going to make. Be sure to include a detailed Bio with your submission. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics and bio (photo is optional). All submissions will be screened and critiqued no later than Monday, May 18, 2009. TAXI #S090518AC ADULT CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS in the wide range of Seal, Toni Braxton, David Gray, Sting, Celine Dion, etc. are wanted by an Independent Record Label owned and operated by a legendary DJ. This company is branching out from its reputable Dance/House tradition and is looking for standout A/C artists to add to their roster. They ll be looking for really solid material and really want to find a few great artists who write incredible, timeless songs with great lyrics and compelling melodic hooks. They d like to work with artists who have finished product - either single song, EP or complete projects. That said, they re willing to develop and produce if a phenomenal artist comes along; meaning if the songs are there and the voice is undeniable, they ll be interested. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued no later than Thursday, May 21, 2009. TAXI #S090521AC NEW LISTING - MALE ADULT CONTEMPORARY SONGS a la Michael Bolton, Lionel Richie, Richard Marx, etc. are needed by the Manager of A&R at a Major Label for a well-known, established male artist who is currently looking for new songs. Lyrically and melodically, the compositions should be contemporary and have an organic soulful quality so as to enhance the artist s naturally soulful vocal tone. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Friday, June 5, 2009. TAXI #S090605AC 2
Americana/Alt. Country/Folk Listings (also see Country, Film/TV, Instrumental listings, etc.): NEW LISTING - AMERICANA ARTISTS/BANDS a la Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welch, Jayhawks, Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, etc. are sought after by a very credible and well-respected Indie label with solid distribution both nationally and internationally. They want edgy and literate artists who have strong songwriting skills and a compelling vocal sound. They are looking for songs for compilation CDs of unsigned artists, as well as exceptional artists to sign to their label, and on top of that, are always interested in distributing CDs that are already mastered and ready to go. Please note: if you are submitting your CD for distribution, it has to be Master Quality. If you are submitting it for consideration of being put on the compilation CD or to be signed to the label, your demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. On your bio, please make sure to include any fanbase or touring history that you have experienced. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Tuesday, June 30, 2009. TAXI #S090630AM Blues Listings: CLASSIC BLUES SONGS a la B.B. King, John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, etc., are sought by Publisher with many placements on network TV. They have asked us to be fairly selective on this one, so screeners will be looking for film and TV appropriateness, as well as good quality songs. Broadcast quality needed - great sounding home demos are fine. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Friday, May 8, 2009. TAXI #Y090508BL MODERN RECORDINGS OF MEMPHIS SCHOOL TYPE BLUES SONGS are wanted by an Independent Publisher to pitch for film and TV placements. The bar is High and they have said that they are specifically looking for a modern style of Memphis schooled American Blues. Broadcast quality needed - great sounding home recordings are fine. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Wednesday, May 13, 2009. TAXI #Y090513BL Children s Listings: NEW LISTING - ORIGINAL SOFT INSTRUMENTALS OF CHILDREN S LULLABIES are wanted by an Austrian Production Company with Major Distribution, for a comp CD that will be marketed and distributed to European Wellness Hotels. They want to hear original pieces only, please do not send in covers of known Children s songs. Compositions should have simple structure and instrumentation but also need to be a full arrangement, they definitely do not want solo pieces. They are suggesting that acoustic guitar or piano be the main instruments in the piece and they do not want any heavy drums or loud, disturbing effects. Suggested accompaniments are soft flutes or soft saxophones. They don t want to hear violins or tin whistles or trumpets. Compositions that have a gentle tone and are easy to digest by the listeners are essentially what is needed here. These instrumentals must be Broadcast quality (really great home recordings are fine). Their deal is a non-exclusive license along with mechanical royalties paid per unit sold. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Wednesday, June 17, 2009. TAXI #S090617CH Christmas Listings: NEW LISTING - SOFT ARRANGEMENTS OF TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS SONGS IN INSTRUMENTAL VERSIONS are wanted by an Austrian Production Company with Major Distribution, for a comp CD that will be marketed and distributed to European Wellness Hotels. They want to hear covers of traditional works only, please do not send your own original songs. Compositions should have simple structure and instrumentation but also need to be a full arrangement, they definitely do not want solo pieces. They are suggesting that acoustic guitar or piano be the main instruments in the piece and they do not want any heavy drums or loud, disturbing effects. Suggested accompaniments are soft flutes or soft saxophones. They don t want to hear violins or tin whistles or trumpets. Compositions that are smooth and easy to digest by the listeners are essentially what is needed here. These instrumentals must be Broadcast quality (really great home recordings are fine). Their deal is a non-exclusive license along with mechanical royalties paid per unit sold. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Monday, June 22, 2009. TAXI #Y090622XM Country Listings (also see Americana, etc.): ROWDY COUNTRY SONGS a la Montgomery Gentry s Hell Yeah, etc., are needed by one of the biggest sports and entertainment networks on cable television. They need high energy, uptempo songs. They need tracks that can provide a solid tone of competition and excitement. The lyrics should be universal enough to relate to a variety of sporting events and features. Broadcast quality is needed, but excellent home recordings should be just fine. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Monday, May 4, 2009. TAXI #S090504CO ROOTSY, LYRIC DRIVEN COUNTRY SONGS a la Linda Ronstadt, early Sara Evans, etc. are sought by a Director of A&R at a Major Nashville label for an up and coming young female artist who is currently working on her demo deal with the label. This is a good opportunity to pitch to Nashville and get a foot in, but having said that, the bar for screening submissions will remain at our typical Nashville standards of: high! Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Friday, May 8, 2009. TAXI #S090508CO CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY SONGS are sought after by a VERY successful Independent Record Label in Nashville for a Grammy-nominated Top 40 Pop artist who is crossing over into Country, a la Jewel. This label has released projects from such stars as Taylor Swift, Trisha Yearwood, Jack Ingram, etc. They are looking for hit songs only! All tempos are welcome but memorable hooks, clever and compelling lyric stories are what s essential to get forwarded. Female perspectives and vocals only! Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Wednesday, May 13, 2009. TAXI #S090513CO NEW LISTING - CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY/POP SONGS a la Taylor Swift, Kellie Pickler, Julianne Hough, etc. needed by a Major Nashville label for a young female artist whose initial recognition came from her dancing career and her participation on a network television show focused on dancing with the stars. They are just starting to look for songs and are open to all tempos. Songs need to be compelling enough to compliment her evocative young voice and thematically can be about the joys and challenges of living every day life. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Friday, May 22, 2009. TAXI #S090522CO NEW LISTING - FEMALE CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY/POP SONGS a la CARRIE UNDERWOOD are needed by the Sr. Director of A&R at a Major Nashville Label. As always, BIG HITS are needed for this one - amazing hooks, compelling and conversational lyrics and a huge payoff! Female lyric perspectives and vocals only please. The chorus should really stand out and pull the listener in with an undeniable hook! Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Friday, May 29, 2009. TAXI #S090529CP NEO-TRADITIONAL COUNTRY SONGS are wanted by the VP of A&R at a Major Nashville label for the former female lead singer of a chart-topping, platinum-selling Country band who has recently gone solo a la Heidi Newfield. They are just starting to look so all tempos will be considered. Solid songwriting is a must - clear, concise imagery in your lyrics is very important. This artist wants songs that are relevant in today s day and age but that also have an underlying soulful quality to them. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Tuesday, June 2, 2009. TAXI #S090602CO 3
Country Listings (continued): NEW LISTING - MAINSTREAM COUNTRY SONGS for a male artist with a traditional streak and a rockin streak a la GARY ALLAN are sought by the VP of A&R at a Major Nashville Label. Bakersfield-style honky-tonk songs would work here and rockin uptempos are especially welcome. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Friday, June 5, 2009. TAXI #S090605CO NEW LISTING - NEO-TRADITIONAL COUNTRY ARTISTS who write their own songs, a la George Strait, Alan Jackson, Lee Ann Womack, etc., wanted by a Grammy award winning producer who has his own record label. He s looking for male and female artists that write their own songs and that have commercial appeal. Songs like Troubador by George Strait and Last Call by Lee Ann Womack are good references. The songs need to show a strong knowledge of good Country song craft. Well-told stories are a must and need to contain amazing radio hooks. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics/photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Friday, June 12, 2009. TAXI #S090612CO NEW LISTING - CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY ARTISTS/BANDS who write their own material a la Keith Urban, Taylor Swift, Rascall Flatts, Carrie Underwood, etc. are sought after by a Grammy award-winning producer who has his own record label. Both male and female artists are wanted. Songs like Once In A Lifetime by Keith Urban and Love Story by Taylor Swift are good references. A commercial image with solid writing chops that include songs with memorable chorus hooks are ultimately what he is looking for. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics/photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Thursday, June 18, 2009. TAXI #S090618CO NEW LISTING - CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY SONGS a la RIO GRANDE are still needed by the VP of A&R at a Major Nashville Label. They need uptempo songs with HUGE hooks that are undeniable - no ballads for this one! High energy, guitar-swingin tunes are wanted - great choruses with radioready, hit potential. The lyrics need to be engaging, conversational and catchy. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Friday, June 19, 2009. TAXI #S090619CO Dance/Electronica Listings (also see AAA/Alternative, Film/TV, Pop, Rock listings, etc.): FUN, UPBEAT, SOMETIMES QUIRK, MODERN ELECTRO-POP SONGS and INSTRUMENTALS a la The Ting Tings, Ladyhawke, Lady GaGa, etc., are wanted by the Director of Music at an L.A. based Music Library/Publisher with current MAJOR film and TV placements (e.g. Film: Twilight, I Love You, Man, He s Just Not That Into You, Television: Ugly Betty, True Blood, Beverly Hills 90210, and many more). He is only looking for record label quality music meaning that the bar is very high on this one. You must own 100% of your composition. Make sure your songs are sample free. Broadcast quality needed [great sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three songs/compositions online or per CD, include lyrics (if applicable). Photo and bio are optional but it s a good idea to include them in the submission because the company does feature the artists they use on their web site. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Friday, May 8, 2009. TAXI #Y090508EP NEW LISTING - ELECTRONICA JAZZ SONGS (with Vocals) and INSTRUMENTALS a la Koop, Waldeck, etc., are wanted by an established Music Publisher in L.A. who has secured TONS of Film/TV placements for many TAXI members. Vocals can be male or female. Lyric content is open, but the tone should be universal as to apply to many different scenarios and characters. Excellent performances are absolutely essential. Broadcast Quality is necessary (excellent home recordings should be okay). They offer a non-exclusive, 50/50 split deal - you keep your original copyrights. Please submit one to three songs and/or instrumentals online or per CD, include lyrics (if applicable). All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, June 2, 2009. TAXI #Y090602EL Film/TV/Video Game Listings (also see AAA/Alternative/Modern Rock, Latin, Pop, R&B, Rock, World Music listings, etc.): UPBEAT ALT ROCK SONGS a la Incubus, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, etc. are needed by one of the biggest sports and entertainment networks on cable television. They need high energy, adrenaline-pumping songs. They ONLY want uptempo songs. They need tracks that can provide a solid tone of competition and excitement. The lyrics should be universal enough to relate to a variety of sporting events and features. Broadcast quality is needed, but excellent home recordings should be just fine. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Thursday, May 7, 2009. TAXI #S090507AR UPBEAT CLASSIC ROCK SONGS in the wide range of KISS, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, etc. are needed by one of the biggest sports and entertainment networks on cable television. They only want high energy, uptempo songs. Think of songs like Tom Petty s Runnin Down A Dream, The Stone s Jumping Jack Flash as a reference point. The lyrics should be universal enough to relate to a variety of sporting events and features. Broadcast quality is needed, but excellent home recordings should be just fine. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Thursday, May 21, 2009. TAXI #S090521RK Gospel Listings: GOSPEL HOUSE ARTISTS a la Martha Wash, Ann Nesby etc. are sought after by an Independent Record Label owned and operated by a legendary DJ. This label signs and releases singles and EPs and will want each track to be recorded at Master Quality - they will not re-record any material. They d prefer to work with artists/producers that have a body of work, so be sure to send in 2-3 of your very best tracks to give them an idea of what you can do. Compositions need to be full length, at least 3 minutes long, in order to be considered. You ll also want to attach a Photo along with a detailed Bio that tells of any successes/placements/releases/etc. This opportunity was recently run as a Dispatch Listing (#D090309GO) and the company wants to extend the search, so if you submitted to the Dispatch listing, please send in new material this time. Again, please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, May 14, 2009. TAXI #Y090514GO NEW LISTING - TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY STYLE GOSPEL SONGS AND INSTRUMENTALS in the various styles of Dorinda Clark Cole, Byron Cage, Beverly Crawford, Norman Hutchins, etc. are wanted by a Grammy nominated, Dove Awards nominated and Stellar award winning Independent Gospel label for upcoming projects. Male and female vocals are preferred but they are open to hearing instrumental compositions as well. All tempos are welcome. They want to hear original songs/instrumentals only. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD, include lyrics (if applicable). All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Wednesday, June 3, 2009. TAXI #Y090603GO NEW LISTING - SOFT INSTRUMENTALS OF GOSPEL SONGS are wanted by an Austrian Production Company with Major Distribution, for a comp CD that will be marketed and distributed to European Wellness Hotels. You can send in original work or cover pieces or both. Compositions should have simple structure and instrumentation but also need to be a full arrangement, they definitely do not want solo pieces. They are suggesting that acoustic guitar or piano be the main instruments in the piece and they do not want any heavy drums or loud, disturbing effects. Suggested accompaniments are soft flutes or soft saxophones. They don t want to hear violins or tin whistles or trumpets. Compositions that have a gentle tone and are easy to digest by the listeners is essentially what is needed here. These instrumentals must be broadcast quality (really great home recordings are fine). Their deal is a non-exclusive license along with mechanical royalties paid per unit sold. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Monday, June 8, 2009. TAXI #S090608GO 4
Hard to Classify: HOLIDAY SONGS and INSTRUMENTALS are needed by an East Coast Music Publisher who has secured dozens of Film/TV placements for TAXI writers over the years. Important: He is specifically looking for original songs and instrumentals that encompass the sounds of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza all in one song. For instance, incorporating the world beat of African Drums for Kwanza, the Clarinet sounds of Hanukkah and sleigh bell sounds of Christmas. He s open to any arrangement with additional instrumentation, as long as it is reflective of these holidays. Excellent performances are absolutely necessary. Broadcast quality is required [excellent-sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, May 7, 2009. TAXI #Y090507HD Instrumental Listings (also see Film/TV, Jazz, Rap/Hip Hop, etc.): CRIME DRAMA INSTRUMENTALS in the style of the underscore for such dramas as CSI and 24, are needed by an East Coast Music Publisher who has secured dozens of Film/TV placements for TAXI writers over the years. He is looking for mysterious and suspenseful styles that must have a contemporary rhythm section. He ll be looking for shifts in tone, instrumentation and dynamics throughout each piece. He definitely does not want it as hyper-tempo as requested in listing # Y090512ID. He s open to any arrangement or instrumentation, as long as the tone is right. Excellent performances are absolutely necessary. He specifically said he wants to hear tracks that are :60 seconds in length. He doesn t want fadeouts, just clear endings. Broadcast quality is required [excellent-sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Monday, May 4, 2009. TAXI #Y090504CD EPIC ORCHESTRAL INSTRUMENTAL COMPOSERS are wanted by the Director of Music at an L.A. based Music Library/Publisher with current MAJOR film and TV placements (e.g. Film: Twilight, I Love You, Man, He s Just Not That Into You, Television: Ugly Betty, True Blood, Beverly Hills 90210, and many more). He is looking for the biggest, most epic modern/hybrid orchestral pieces available. He said it doesn t have to be a live orchestra but it definitely should not sound like you used samples. You must own 100% of your composition. Broadcast quality needed [great sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. Photo and bio are optional but it s a good idea to include them in the submission because the company does feature the artists they use on their web site. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Wednesday, May 6, 2009. TAXI #Y090506IN HIGH/UPTEMPO INVESTIGATIVE DRAMA INSTRUMENTALS are needed by an East Coast Music Publisher who has secured dozens of Film/TV placements for TAXI writers over the years. He is looking for exciting, driving beds ranging from Industrial Techno Rock to Orchestral styles that have a high intensity, powerful dramatic tone. He said percussion rules, he wants speed and said make it move, make it hot with a climactic building to the end. He s open to any arrangement or instrumentation, as long as the tone is right. Excellent performances are absolutely necessary. He specifically said he wants to hear tracks that are :60 seconds in length. He doesn t want fadeouts, just clear endings. Broadcast quality is required [excellent-sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 12, 2009. TAXI #Y090512ID BUSINESS NEWS THEMED INSTRUMENTALS are needed by an East Coast Music Publisher who has secured dozens of Film/TV placements for TAXI writers over the years. He is looking for orchestral instrumentals with Pop/Rock elements. He definitely does not want Rock tracks. The compositions should represent the images of money, the economy, Wall Street, budget, home foreclosures, unemployment, etc. He does want the tone of the pieces to be more positive than negative though. He s open to any arrangement or instrumentation, as long as the tone is right. Excellent performances are absolutely necessary. He specifically said he wants to hear tracks that are :60 seconds in length. He doesn t want fadeouts, just clear endings. Broadcast quality is required [excellentsounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 19, 2009. TAXI #Y090519BN NEW LISTING - WORLD INSTRUMENTALS of all styles are wanted by a Music Publisher for placement in Muzak-type applications (shops, restaurants, malls, etc.) as well as film and TV placements. He wants BMI writers only (don t be mad at us - this was his specific request). He s signed and placed many TAXI songs in the past. He is very open to hearing different varieties of World style instrumentals but asks to please make sure that the instrumentation sounds authentic to the region and style of the composition that you are submitting! Broadcast quality is needed (great sounding home recordings are fine). Please submit one to three instrumentals online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 26, 2009. TAXI #Y090526WO NEW LISTING - GUITAR DRIVEN ALT ROCK INSTRUMENTALS in the wide variety of The Raconteurs, Radiohead, Kings of Leon, etc., are wanted by a Music Publisher for placement in Muzak-type applications (shops, restaurants, malls, etc.) as well as film and TV placements. He wants BMI writers only (don t be mad at us - this was his specific request). He s signed and placed many TAXI songs in the past. He wants to hear edgy, guitar driven instrumentals that stand on their own and sound like they could be on the radio - minus the vocals, of course! Broadcast quality is needed (great sounding home recordings are fine). Please submit one to three instrumentals online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, June 4, 2009. TAXI #Y090604AR Jazz Listings (also see Instrumental, Film/TV listings, etc.): SMOOTH JAZZ INSTRUMENTALS in the full range of Chris Botti, Mindy Abair, Acoustic Alchemy, Dave Koz, Kenny G., etc. are again wanted by an Independent Music Publisher for placement in Muzak-type applications (shops, restaurants, malls, etc.) as well as film and TV placements. He s signed and placed many TAXI songs in the past. Performances should sound as if they re recorded by live musicians, so be careful to make sure that your sounds aren t too slick. He really wants to find excellent Smooth Jazz and isn t interested in New Age or any other genre/style. Please keep your songs under 4 minutes in length. Broadcast quality needed [excellent home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 12, 2009. TAXI #S090512JZ Latin Listings (also see Film/TV, World, Instrumental, Rap, R&B listings, etc.): LATIN/BRAZILIAN HOUSE INFLUENCED JAZZ INSTRUMENTALS are sought after by an Independent Record Label owned and operated by a legendary DJ in this genre. This label signs and releases singles and EPs and will want each track to be recorded at Master Quality - they will not re-record any material. They d prefer to work with artists/producers that have a body of work, so be sure to send in some of your very best tracks to give them an idea of what you can do. Tracks need to be full length, at least 3 minutes long, in order to be considered. You ll want to attach a detailed Bio that tells of any successes/placements/releases/etc. This listing was originally run as Dispatch listing #D090226JZ and the company wants to hear more material, so if you submitted to the Dispatch listing, please send different songs this time. Please submit one to three instrumentals online or per CD, include bio. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 12, 2009. TAXI #Y090512LA NEW LISTING - LATIN INSTRUMENTALS are wanted by a Music Publisher for placement in Muzak-type applications (shops, restaurants, malls, etc.) as well as film and TV placements. He wants BMI writers only (don t be mad at us - this was his specific request). He s signed and placed many TAXI songs in the past. He wants authentic sounding original pieces (performances should sound as if they re recorded by live musicians) in all Latin styles: Salsa, Mambo, Flamenco, Cuban, Pop, etc. Mid to uptempos are preferred. Broadcast quality is needed (great sounding home recordings are fine). Please submit one to three instrumentals online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Thursday, May 21, 2009. TAXI #Y090521LA 5
New Age Listings (also see Film/TV, World, Instrumental, etc.): NEW LISTING - RELAXING AND MELODIC NEW AGE INSTRUMENTALS a la Vangelis, Andreas Vollenweider, Yanni, etc., are wanted by an Austrian Production Company with Major Distribution, for a comp CD that will be marketed and distributed to European Wellness Hotels. This is the 9th installment of a CD series and the first 8 have collectively sold over 50,000 units. They are looking for very relaxing pieces that still have interesting and compelling melodic elements. Compositions should have simple structure and instrumentation but also need to be a full arrangement, they definitely do not want solo pieces. They are suggesting that acoustic guitar or piano be the main instruments in the piece and they do not want any heavy drums or loud, disturbing effects. Suggested accompaniments are soft flutes or soft saxophones. They don t want to hear violins or tin whistles or trumpets. Meditative music that is smooth and easy to digest by the listeners is essentially what is needed here. These songs must be Broadcast quality (really great home recordings are fine). Their deal is a nonexclusive license along with mechanical royalties paid per unit sold. Please submit one to three compositions online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Wednesday, June 3, 2009. TAXI #Y090603NA Pop Listings (also see AAA/Alternative/Modern Rock, Film/TV, R&B listings, etc.): FEMALE POP ARTISTS in the stylistic range of The Pussycat Dolls, Britney Spears, Lady GaGa and Fergie are being sought by the head of A&R at a leading Independent Record Label for an exciting new girl group. Current and hip vocals that are engaging and commercially appealing are the key for this one, along with a highly marketable look and the ability to dance in the style of the referenced artists. They are mainly looking for artists aged 19-24, or who appear to be so. Your bio must include references to stage/touring history as well as links to performances or an active website. Additionally, the better quality of your demo, the better chance you have for being chosen for further consideration by this very picky label. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD. PHOTO and BIO are a must in order to be forwarded - no exceptions! All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 5, 2009. TAXI #Y090505PO CONTEMPORARY POP SONGS (with vocals) a la Kelly Clarkson, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, etc., are wanted by a successful Music Publisher based in L.A. who has secured tons of Film/TV placements for many TAXI members. Great vocal performances are essential and songs must sound commercially viable with a universal appeal. Male or female vocals are OK. They offer a non-exclusive, 50/50 split deal - you keep your original copyrights. Broadcast quality needed. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS ONLY - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI. Submissions must be received no later than Wednesday, May 6, 2009. TAXI #Y090506PO FEMALE POP ARTISTS in the range of Britney Spears to Leona Lewis, etc., are wanted by an A&R Executive at a Major label. He is looking for the real deal - your vocals must be stellar and your image needs to be star quality. He is not looking for talent in the developmental stages. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, you must include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Wednesday, May 13, 2009. TAXI #S090513PO POP SONGS in the wide range of Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, etc. are wanted by a well known, widely used within the TV and film industry, music library. They are looking for fresh blood to help expand their library. This is an excellent opportunity to potentially get your music pitched for film and TV placement! Broadcast quality is needed - excellent sounding home recordings are fine. Please submit one to three examples online or per CD, include lyrics as well as photo and bio for this one. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Monday, May 18, 2009. TAXI #S090518PO EXTRAORDINARY POP SONGWRITERS (not Artists!) are sought after by a very successful Independent Publisher and Hit Producer who is looking for great writers to add to his roster that is already filled with hit songwriters. Think of Pop type styles as Kelly Clarkson, Jesse McCartney, etc. He is looking for writers that are driven and willing to work hard for their success. This is a serious listing, with a heavy focus on quality. He would love to find someone who is a versatile songwriter who can also collaborate. He s open to both male and female writers, but the songs MUST be outstanding! He ll be interested in very current-sounding material that also has an old school depth to your songwriting. He s willing to develop, but the more experience that you have, the stronger impression you re going to make. Be sure to include a detailed Bio with your submission. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, include bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued no later than Wednesday, May 20, 2009. TAXI #S090520PO MALE POP ARTISTS a la the full range of David Archuleta, Jason Mraz, etc. are wanted by an A&R Executive at a Major label. He is looking for the real deal - your vocals must be stellar and your image needs to be star quality. He is not looking for talent in the developmental stages. Please submit two to three songs online or per CD, you must include lyrics, photo and bio. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received no later than Friday, May 22, 2009. TAXI #S090522PO POP SONGS AND INSTRUMENTALS a la Britney Spears, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, etc., are wanted by the Director of Music at an L.A.based Music Library/Publisher with current MAJOR film and TV placements (e.g. Film: Twilight, I Love You, Man, He s Just Not That Into You, Television: Ugly Betty, True Blood, Beverly Hills 90210, and many more). He is only looking for record label quality music meaning that the bar is very high on this one. You must own 100% of your song. Make sure your songs are sample free and clean -- no profanity. Broadcast quality needed [great sounding home recordings are OK]. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics (if applicable). Photo and bio are optional but it s a good idea to include them in the submission because the company does feature the artists they use on their web site. All submissions will be screened on a YES/NO BASIS - NO CRITIQUES FROM TAXI - and must be received no later than Tuesday, May 26, 2009. TAXI #Y090526PO NEW LISTING - FEMALE POP SONGS in the range of Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Ashlee Simpson, etc. are needed by an East Coast Music Library/Publisher for the purpose of Film/TV placements and licensing. This company has signed and placed dozen of TAXI songs, and offers a non-exclusive deal. Songs that have universal lyricswhich are general enough to apply to many different scenarios/scenes/plots/etc. are preferred. Musically, the songs need to sound radio-ready and current. Vocal performances must be fantastic and song structure must be solid! No uncleared samples and songs MUST be recorded at Broadcast Quality (excellent home recordings should be fine). Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Wednesday, June 3, 2009. TAXI #S090603PO NEW LISTING - FEMALE POP SONGS a la Kylie Minogue, Sugarbabes, Madonna, etc. are sought after by the Sr. Director of A&R at a Major U.K. label for a hugely successful female artist. Think of songs such as Minogue s Can t Get You Out of My Head, Fever and Madonna s Open Your Heart for reference as to the sound this Exec is looking for. Songs must sound current and radio ready. Catchy hooks are always very important. This is a high-bar listing, so we will have to be very selective. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Thursday, June 4, 2009. TAXI #S090604PO NEW LISTING - MALE POP/ROCK SONGS a la Drake Bell, Ryan Cabrera, etc. are wanted by the Vice President of A&R at a legendary record label. He is looking for new material to use as potential cuts for signed artists. Your songwriting ability needs to be outstanding and show that you can excel both melodically and lyrically. Demo presentation must sound great with top-notch instrumental and vocal performances. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD, include lyrics. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI and must be received by Wednesday, June 10, 2009. TAXI #S090610PR 6