From Businessweek

In the late 1990s, as the Backstreet Boys climbed to the top of the charts with hits such as I Want It That Way, they gained attention for more than just their music: The singers sued a former manager who they say cheated them out of millions of dollars. When it came time to release their most recent album, the band sought greater control and a bigger cut of the profits. For their eighth studio release, In a World Like This, the Backstreet Boys—now middle-aged men—abandoned the classic record company contract, turning to what the industry calls a label services company, which works almost like a consultant. Under these deals, bands call the shots on marketing and distribution, and they can receive more than triple the typical artist’s share of earnings. “With this type of situation, you’re responsible for getting the right staff and people behind it,” says Peter Katsis, the Backstreet Boys’ manager. “It falls on the artists.” CONTINUE READING

Buzz Track: So Much More

Nashville based singer-songwriter/guitar virtuoso Justin Forrest  just released his debut album, Chapters, which debuted at #36 on the Itunes Singer-Songwriter Charts. Justin worked along side, engineer/ producer Chad Brown who has worked with artists like, Johnny Lang, Robert Plant, Bill Medley, and Patty Griffin. He was invited in to record this album, after winning SESAC’s songwriter showcase, and selling out the HardRock Café in Nashville. For fans of John Mayer and Mat Kearney.
Contact: booking@justinforrest.net

Buzz Track: Goodnight

Shotty is an explosive rock n’ pop band hailing from Los Angeles. They formed in Seattle, WA, and were semi-finalists in the EMP Sound Off! Battle of the Bands. The band worked with producers Martin Feveyear (Presidents of the United States of America) and Johnny Sangster (Mudhoney), and perform shows up and down the west coast and occasionally hitting New York City. Highlights include song features in Disney’s Tap Tap Revenge.
Contact: shottylovesyou@hotmail.com

Buzz Track: Wild Love

Emerging Electronic/Pop artist, KARRA, has entered the scene with a captivating track called “Wild Love”. With its unforgettable melodies and its unique tribal-esq sound, it serves as a perfect breakout single for the artist. Producer Dustin Burnett (Sleeperstar, Kingsfoil), the creator of the new drum sampling company “That Sound”, produced the track and co-wrote it with singer-songwriter Dana Alexandra.  Karra makes our artist to watch list for 2014.
Contact: iamkarramusic@gmail.com

Buzz Track: Holiday Season

Singer-songwriter Mike Deleasa has become a Kings favorite after listening to his latest releases ‘Lust For Love’ and ‘Holiday Season’. His video for the track To Damn Beautiful can be viewed here. Highlights include touring with the Jonas Brothers in South America, performing Chicago’s House of Blues and NYC Irving plaza as direct support for Olly Murs. This is another artist to watch.
Contact: Deleasa.contact@gmail.com