The Dread Pirate Roy

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The Dread Pirate Roy

 

We had just signed a record deal with Gemini Records of Scottsdale, Arizona and our dreams of moving up from garage band to bonafide rock stars was coming to fruition. Looking back now, we were just chasing our dream but at the time, we were deep in the moment.
Our lead singer, Roy, was everything you would imagine in a British rock star. He had a great voice with perfect pitch, mixed with the perfect combination of charm and debauchery. He was a modern day pirate. The year was 1989 and he had recently gotten hair extensions which flowed down from his black cowboy hat to damn near his ass. He wore zebra patterned pants , drove a white Rolls Royce with a custom license plate that read “BLOW ME”, and would park up on the sidewalk of the nightclub if there were no handicapped parking spaces or other prime parking available. He was cocky, privileged and outrageous. He was a character. Of course all of this came in a package that included getting totally wasted on a regular basis and boy, could Roy-boy put the bourbon away!

The dread pirate Roy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He was my idol and I looked up to him because he was everything I was not. I had little self confidence, Roy exuded confidence. I watched him in action one night at the club Houlighans. It was a weeknight and we had just left the recording studio and had stopped off for a drink. I should have known better. With Roy there was no such thing as ‘a drink’. After downing 3 or 4 Jim Beams, I watched as he walked up to a group of girls, planted his fist down on their table and asked them to dance. I could see them backing away at his arrogance or maybe it was the blast of alcohol hitting them in the face. I don’t know what he said but I could see them shaking their heads ‘No’. For me, that would have been it. I would have turned with my tail between my legs to regroup, but not Roy. He stood up and went right over to the next table and pitched his spiel. A minute later, he was out on the dance floor with a beautiful babe doing his incredible moves. He could do a split to the floor and come right back up in time with the music. He also had a really cool move where he went backwards to the floor and pushed himself back up with one hand. It was pretty impressive.
That night, I was able to pull him out of the club because I was the one driving. Within 5 minutes of hitting the road, Roy was sound asleep with his face against the passenger window. I pulled up in front of his apartment and tried to wake him up but there would be none of that. I fished the keys out of his jacket pocket and was working on propping him up and carrying his dead ass to the door when I heard a voice. “Need some help?” It was Roy’s next door neighbor, working on his car outside. “Sure” I said and we both took an arm and lifted Roy up. I heard his jacket rip apart at the armpits but tough shit, it was his fault, right? We drug him into the apartment and stood him up in front of his bed. He awoke just long enough to see where he was and said “Oh God, yes!” with that we let go of him. He did a face plant right into the center of the bed and was totally still. “Should we move him? Can he breathe?” I asked. “He’ll be fine” said the neighbor and we turned out the lights and walked out. The next morning, Roy was back at work with no signs of being worse for wear. How does he do it? I wondered.

Roy with another hard drinker, Gary Strausbaugh

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roy’s drinking could be tolerated for the most part but we had a big recording session coming up and Morgan and myself, the other 2 members of the band, were concerned. We knew that to get the best out of Roy in the recording studio, he had to have a few drinks to loosen up but there was a ‘window of opportunity’ that would pass if we didn’t get a good take, and if missed, Roy would be too wasted to continue. “Passing out is not an option!” I remember Morgan saying.
During the recording of our first album, Roy had moved back to LA . One Friday night we picked him up at the Phoenix airport and drove straight to the studio. We had a good recording session that night and afterwards decided to head to Cave Creek to a bar called ‘the Satisfied Frog’ where our friend and fellow musician, Geoff Hurley, played drums with his band ‘the Rave’. They were a damn good Beatles cover band. We all drove together in Morgan’s car. Cave Creek was pretty far from Scottsdale and this place was out in the boonies, away from any civilization. We parked the car in their dirt parking lot and found ourselves a table inside to listen to the band.
It didn’t take long before Roy was drunk and getting a bit out of hand so we decided to leave. Outside in the parking lot, Roy sensed we were upset and asked “What’s the matter?” Morgan finally let him have it. “Dammit Roy, it’s your drinking!” After a short pause, Roy replied, “No really, what is it?” With that Morgan lost it. “God dammit!” he shouted and opened the trunk of the car and threw Roy’s suitcase in the dirt. We got in the car and drove off, leaving Roy standing in the parking lot.
“Morgan, you did it!” I said as we headed down the road. “You finally did it!”. I was happy that Roy had finally been confronted but my joy was short lived. “I can’t do it” said Morgan as he turned the car around. “I can’t just leave him there like that”. I felt a bit disappointed that Morgan had changed his mind. We pulled back into the parking lot but Roy was nowhere to be seen. “Can you go in there to get him?” Morgan asked. “He’s probably in there sulking”. I walked back inside and looked around. The band was going full bore, rocking away and there was Roy, on stage, singing backup! He was having the time of his life. I think he had just invited himself on stage and with eyes closed, was singing perfect harmonies! I walked back outside to a concerned Morgan. “Well, how is he?” he asked. “You won’t believe it- he’s on stage, singing with the band” I told him. With that we left.

Roy (Billy Idol) with (Rockabilly) Morgan Greig

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The following morning, we had a recording session planned for 9am. As Morgan and I arrived at the studio, there was Roy, chipper and bouncing around like nothing had happened. Geoff had informed us that Roy was the life of the party last night. He had finally passed out in the club at around 2am and toppled over a table. He was laying on the floor with candle wax dripping into his hair. Geoff and the band had to haul his ass out of there. It was amazing because there were no signs whatsoever in Roy’s appearance. He looked well groomed and put together. I just don’t know how he does it. I’d be nursing a major hangover for a full day!Our band never did find the path to stardom we were looking for, but looking back at those days, and the dread pirate Roy, I realize now we were in the presence of a living, breathing rock star! You can hear Roy’s amazing vocals on songs like “Angel”, “Jet Black Rose”, “Images” and “China Doll” and other Lost European songs here https://www.freemusicpublicdomain.com/royalty-free-alternative-music

The Ultimate Guide To Music Licensing For Businesses

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In the vibrant world of business, sound and music play a critical role in the narrative told to customers. From the warm melody that greets you upon entering a store to the background beats of a commercial, music has the power to elevate brands and enhance customer experiences. But with this power comes responsibility — understanding music licensing is a vital step for any business, content creator, or musician looking to leverage the potential of sound in their work while staying on the right side of the law.

Introduction

Music is a universal language that resonates deeply with all of us. In the business world, music is not merely a soundtrack but a strategic tool used to foster environments that encourage purchasing behavior, underscore content, and promote brands. This guide uncovers the intricacies of music licensing, empowering you to harness the true potential of music in your ventures.

 

 

 

Understanding Music Licensing

Definition and Types of Music Licenses

Music licensing for Commercial Royalty Free Music is the process of obtaining the rights to use copyrighted music for various purposes. For businesses, this often entails securing a public performance license to play background music in commercial settings. There are several types of licenses, including mechanical, synchronization, and performance rights, each covering a specific use case.

Legal Aspects and Compliance

The labyrinth of copyright law can be daunting. It is crucial to understand the laws governing music usage to ensure compliance. Businesses must also be aware of the consequences of unauthorized music use, which can range from hefty fines to legal action.

Benefits for Small Businesses

Enhancing Customer Experience

Music for Music for businesses has an unparalleled ability to set the mood and create an atmosphere that aligns with a brand’s identity. From high-energy playlists in gyms to laid-back tunes in cafes, music can significantly impact customer perception and dwell time.

Building Brand Identity

Consistently using the right music can help solidify brand recognition. By incorporating music that resonates with the brand’s ethos, businesses can establish a more powerful and memorable connection with their audience.

Avoiding Legal Issues

Securing proper music licenses shields businesses from the financial and reputational risks associated with copyright infringement. It provides peace of mind and a clear conscience, knowing that artists are rightfully compensated.

Benefits for Independent Musicians

Revenue Streams

Music licensing is a lucrative revenue stream for independent musicians. It offers a way to monetize their work beyond traditional album sales, especially through avenues like sync licensing, where music is paired with visual media.

Exposure and Recognition

Licensing allows independent artists to reach new audiences they might not access through conventional distribution channels. Exposure in commercial settings or popular content can lead to increased recognition and fanbase growth.

Fair Compensation

Fair compensation not only financially supports musicians but also validates the artistic value of their work. Licensing fees and royalties ensure that creativity is rewarded, contributing to a sustainable ecosystem for music creation.

Benefits for Content Creators

Enhancing Content Quality

The right music can dramatically improve the quality of content by reinforcing the intended emotional impact, emphasizing message points, and increasing viewer engagement.

Avoiding Copyright Infringement

Using licensed music protects content creators from the legal ramifications of using copyrighted material without permission. It instills trust with audiences and platforms, maintaining a clean and respected brand image.

Collaboration Opportunities

Music licensing often involves collaboration between content creators and musicians. This partnership can lead to innovative content that benefits both parties and provides unique experiences for the audience.

The Ultimate Guide To Music Licensing For Businesses

How to Obtain Licenses

Licensing Platforms and Agencies

There is a wide array of platforms and agencies that facilitate the licensing process. These organizations act as intermediaries, connecting businesses and musicians while handling the legal requirements.

Negotiation Tips

For custom uses or large-scale projects, negotiation skills come in handy. Knowing the value of the music and being clear on usage terms can aid in reaching an agreement that satisfies all parties involved.

Licensing Cost Factors

Several factors influence the cost of a music license, including the popularity of the music, the size of the audience, the duration of the use, and the platform or technology used. Understanding these variables is key to budgeting effectively.

Case Studies

Examples of Successful Music Licensing Strategies

The power of a well-crafted music licensing strategy is evidenced by numerous success stories. Businesses and content creators that have aligned music choices with their brands have seen significant boosts in customer engagements and sales.

Conclusion

Music licensing is an invaluable cog in the wheel of business, branding, and content creation. It provides a fair exchange between artists and businesses, delivers enhanced customer experiences, and safeguards against legal pitfalls. By recognizing the importance of music licensing, you open the door to a world of creative and strategic possibilities in your ventures.

In a world flooded with content, the right music not only captures attention but leaves a lasting imprint on your audience. It is the unsung hero in the symphony of marketing, bringing life to your brand narrative. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to rejuvenate your retail space with a new playlist or a content creator searching for the perfect track to elevate your video, understanding music licensing is a powerful step forward in your creative and entrepreneurial journeys.

To explore the diverse musical landscape and its potential for your business, the quest for music licensing begins here. It’s not merely a legal necessity but a gateway to a world where sound meets strategy, creativity aligns with commerce, and your brand’s essence finds its perfect pitch in the hearts of your audience.

If you are a business looking for high quality music at an affordable price, check out these two wonderful royalty-free websites. Purchasing a standard license from them for commercial use is very easy.

https://www.FreeMusicPublicDomain.com  & https://www.Epic-Royalty-Free-Music.com

 

10 Great Songs You’ve Never Heard

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10 Great songs You've Never Heard10 Great Songs You’ve Never Heard

 

Ever wonder how many great undiscovered artists are out there? How many beautiful songs have been written and recorded but never gone mainstream?
We’ve heard the stories of the great ones who tried and tried, overcoming failure after failure until they finally got their break. Well what about those who tried and tried but never got that lucky break?
I bet there’s literally thousands of talented artists and great songs out there that nobody has heard. How could you possibly know? They’re obscure. Their hidden. Hidden from the mainstream. In a way, being un-ubiquitous is the beauty of their being. They’re rare and precious gems waiting to be discovered. Waiting as the hour glass slowly empties and the sands of time bury them deeper and deeper into obscurity.
Did you know- Vincent Van Gogh was an artist who died penniless. 100 years later, his paintings sell for $100 million apiece. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was buried in a pauper’s grave. He is now known as the greatest classical composer of all time.
We’ve all had that excitement of finding something wonderful and new and the unbearable desire to share it with someone before we burst. We can’t wait to tell our friends and family of the magical treasure we’ve discovered.
I’ve compiled a list of the 10 greatest songs you’ve never heard – songs that are truly hidden gems. Songs that beg to ask “Why hasn’t this sold a million copies?” I think once you listen to them, you’ll ask the same question. You’ve heard of ‘One hit wonders’? Well these are ‘No hit wonders’. They deserve a lot more credit than they receive. Who’s to say if these artists won’t get the same kind of recognition decades from now? I leave it to you, the listener, to decide.

(You can find these songs by clicking on the links below)

The 10 Great Songs You’ve Never Heard

1. What a beautiful Sunset! by Angelwing
2. Images by Lost European
3. Tammy by Stan Devereaux
4. Better be Ready by Morgan Greig
5. Tears of Joy by Angelwing
6. China Doll by Lost European
7. The Calling by The Lemming Shepherds
8. Book by Lost European
9. Take the Dare by Steve Blakeley
10. Jet Black Rose by Lost European

Finding The Perfect “On-Hold” Music

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Finding The Perfect “On-Hold” Music

Whether you have a large company or a small business on Main Street expanding your customer service call-in line, you’re likely either thinking of just having repeated messages, or better yet, looking for the best on-hold music for people to listen to.

But looking for music to play is a bit dicey these days, especially with artists and the copyright offices coming down hard on people who replay music over the air illegally. So, while it might be tempting to pull out your phones or MP3 players and play the stuff you have on those devices, that’s considered “rebroadcasting,” and it’s illegal.

Replaying Music & The ‘Copyright Police’

“How is it illegal?” you may be asking. Good question. Sure, you might have purchased the music, but replaying the music over your on-hold service without asking permission, etc, means that the artists won’t get royalties for their work, and to be fair, they are professional musicians. Music is what they do for a living, and if they’re not super-popular, Top-40 artists, they may not get as much money as you might think they do, even if their music is truly amazing.

Plus, if you replay music without permission, you can easily be slapped with a hefty lawsuit, and don’t think that just because you’re a small business that the “copyright police” won’t find you at all. They will, eventually, especially since they’ve been trying to crack down on smaller businesses as well as the large ones. Your business, as well as your reputation, will be in jeopardy, and we don’t think you want that. So it pays to get, and stay, legal with any music you use, from on-hold tunes to marketing videos.

Your Options

“So, what are my options for properly licensed music?”

One option might be playing an FM radio station aimed at your demographic but guess what? You are obligated to pay royalties for that music too. ASCAP and BMI, the 2 agencies tasked with tracking that stuff can fine you for using “their” music without permission.

Another option might be the best of all, to you and your customers: Royalty-free, legally licensed music. “Wait, how does that work?” Glad you asked!

There are two types of royalty-free licenses: Standard, and Creative Commons. The Creative Commons license, which is free of charge, is something of an “open-source” or “fair use” license aimed at amateur video or film makers, or other audiovisual artists not seeking to make money just yet, if at all.

The Standard License for royalty-free music, however, is for businesses, and usually it tends to be a reasonable price. FreeMusicPublicDomain has this particular license on offer for about $25. Also, they have lots of great tunes on their site that could be used as “on-hold music,” but they do, however, have a particular selection of works that might just have your customers thinking they don’t mind being put on hold.

Most of the tracks on their “On-hold music” page are down-tempo, chill or jazzy, and certain to lower anyone’s blood pressure and help them calm down, but one song is fairly up-tempo and will put listeners in a happy, silly mood.

How the process works: Select the song you want, complete the license purchase via Paypal, and then return to the license page to download the license agreement. It’s just that simple, and since it’s only $25 per song, you can get quite a bit of music for all your needs, whether it’s any kind of “telephone-wait” situation, or even your marketing video efforts. If you’re a relatively new company, you can even get a jump on the holiday “on-hold” music, as FreeMusicPublicDomain.com has a Christmas category.

With a standard license and royalty-free music, you’ll have the best of both worlds: Great music for customers to listen to, and no legal worries on your end.