The Resonate Music Award

 

Deepak answers some questions on The Resonate Music Award:

Why are you doing this?

Between 1999 and 2005, I was actively involved in the Bangalore music scene as frontman for the band Shrapnel. In 2004, we took the bold decision to self-finance our debut album, “Intellectual Pursuit”, and I was involved in every step of the creative and logistical process. We chose to independently fund the album, to remain free of any constraints and maintain creative control over the final product. This whole process was extremely satisfying, and the album showcases our creative abilities as musicians and determination to break the “norm” of low quality productions.

In short, I’d like to support other bands to do the same. I know from first hand experience, that a helping hand goes a long way in the path to success.

Who is funding this?

The Resonate Music Award is currently solely funded by me from personal funds.

What will this award give me and my band?

• A recorded, mixed and mastered album, with the master handed over to you.
• The support of some of India’s leading musicians
• A product which is limited only by your creative and marketing vision

What will this award NOT give me and my band?

• Cash to be spent with no questions asked. I want to ensure that this award will be used solely for the recording of an album.
• As of now, this award will NOT cover production costs, if you want to produce physical CD’s. Marketing of the album remains the responsibility of the band. HOWEVER everyone who is associated with The Resonate Music Award, will provide guidance and do their best to ensure that your music is heard by the people who matter and by the widest possible audience. We shall sit down with the winner during the recording process to discuss options. We aren’t ruling out helping the band further, but that decision will be taken at a further date.
• An album that will be used as a tea coaster. We want the winner to actively market the album and ensure it receives the attention it deserves.

Who should apply?

Serious bands who want to take that extra step. We encourage bands who dream big, who have spent significant time composing original material and are looking for a catalyst to start spreading their music.

I’m already part of a professional band, can we apply?

This award is aimed at easing the financial constraints of a serious band, looking for a “leg-up” in the recording and marketing process. Hence, we will not consider bands that would be deemed “professional”, as we assume that you have the means to secure financing for your recording. If you have any doubts about your eligibility, we’d be happy to have a chat with you.

I am a solo artist, can I apply?

Absolutely. However please note that charges for session musicians are not included in the award. Please specify in your entry how you have gone about/plan to go about recording your compositions.

Looks like all the judges are from heavy metal/rock bands – do you accept entries from any genre?

We do. While all of us have been part of heavy metal/rock bands, we listen to and appreciate many genres of music. If we think you have talent and fit into our vision we will not discriminate on basis on genre.

Sounds great! What do I need to provide you with?

Three songs along with lyrics, sent to us as MP3’s along with written answers to the following questions:

a) What has your band achieved to date? What do you want to achieve further?

b) What is your plan to market the recorded album? Describe how you plan to market the album, with details of any funding/arrangements the band can arrange.

The Resonate Music Award will accept no liability/responsibility for music submitted that infringes on any existing copyrights. Please ensure you submit original compositions.

My band is not from Bangalore, can I apply?

Unfortunately, we are currently able to offer the studio recording in Bangalore and hence, is more convenient to artists living locally in Bangalore. Although I currently live in London, I lived in Bangalore for many years, and my support network in Bangalore is the ideal setting for the inaugural award. That said, if you are able to make the trip down to Bangalore (at your own cost) for recording sessions, we are happy to accept your entry.  Please note that living and accommodation costs in Bangalore are NOT part of the award, and if selected will be the responsibility of the winner.

Of course, we intend for this award to open up to as many as possible. With the inclusion of nationally known artists such as Sahil Makhija on the panel of judges, we are building a national network and are working on the possibility to offer more options as soon as possible.

What are the key dates in the process?

• Deadline to submit entries is 1 September 2009.
• The winner will be announced shortly thereafter.
• Date of recording sessions will be decided on a mutually convenient schedule for the winner and Christortion Studios

Are there really “no strings attached”?

Yes. You will remain in control of your music and your band’s activities. I am NOT looking to sign bands and control their activities, but to merely help them record an album and give them access to international standard facilities and the guidance of accomplished musicians.

How can I improve the odds of winning?

Two main points -

1) Submit good recordings. You could have the best own composition in the world, but if we can’t hear it properly, the odds are the judges won’t be able to give it the merit it deserves.

2) Be explicit and truthful while providing answers to the questions posed. We want to see your passion come through. At the same time, we want to see savvy musicians who have a plan to ensure that their music will get heard.