Latest
Getting You Name Out There: Internet Marketing with Carl Dawkins
Meet Carl Dawkins –
Hello all, and welcome to the next installment on how to further yourself as a musician in the industry. This article is currently being written from a tour bus in India, where I am touring with a metal band from the UK called ‘Cypher16’. Thankfully enough, the way I got this tour resulted from exactly what I am going to talk about today – promoting yourself in the right way to get you noticed.
The tour of India was secured through several actions that had resulted from various bits of promotion I had done. The first was one point I have talked about in other articles – letting everyone and anyone know that you’re available. The band ‘Cypher16’ had heard from someone they knew that I was available at these times. Someone else (who was also informed that I was free) had also let them know to check me out. This is the foundation that can lead to getting the gig, but most of the time it would end here, and neither party would end up working together, be it through them finding someone else, or circumstances changing, or the tour being pulled. If you do get the gig, then well done—start building up a good working relationship. If by chance it didn’t end with securing the gig, we need to look at how to increase our chances of getting the gig after this stage, and there are several ways to do this.
The main point of what I’m about to talk about follows one simple rule, “get yourself noticed”. I guarantee, whatever you’re doing, and no matter how much promo you’re doing, you can always do more. I’m sure I could mention quite a few bands that are now big that you would not have heard of, and I’m sure you could reel off a few bands I too have not heard of – but me telling you about the band is instant promotion for them, as you have now heard of them. The same applies to us as musicians. If you leave a good impression, or in fact any impression at all on someone, your name may come up in conversation, or at the very least they would of heard of you and would pass you on to someone else via word of mouth. Point being; tell everyone you’re available, and looking!
To keep yourself more visible, sign up to loads of different Internet sites. The internet is still a great way to get you out there and can hold a lot of the information on one page for someone to look at. Check out my site (which just redirects to MySpace) www.carldawkins.co.uk
I’ve had the site done professionally, until my proper .co.uk was finished – it contains videos, a CV, bio, artists I’ve worked with + pictures and contact info—everything someone needs to find out about me. Also, update your sites regularly – I am still constantly updating mine, and I still need to record and upload more video and audio examples. So keep on top of your sites, and when new gigs start to unfold, let people know! Let the local papers know as well. Any sort of exposure is important, and the more people that know about you and what you’re doing, the better!
Try to stay on top of all of the above. Its hard work, and needs to be done constantly, but its worth it! And, as busy as you’ll be taking care of all that, keep a balance, and don’t let your practice time suffer.
I have added some sites below, but there are many more to find by just looking through Google!
Good sites to sign up to
MySpace – www.myspace.com
Reverbnation – www.reverbnation.com
Forums – type ‘session bassist/musician’ in Google and sign up to the free sites you find where you can chat and network with other musos.
Sign up a .com and link to your MySpace, or other free site – example –www.carldawkins.co.uk
Type bass forums into Google and sign up to any sites that come up (only the free ones) as well as typing in key words such as ‘musicians classified’
www.craiglist.com
www.gumtree.com
Good sites where you pay to be signed up
www.Starnow.co.uk
Musicians jobs – type into Google
The above two have different types of work in all styles coming in daily
Bass Videos
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers…
Aguilar Amplification is excited to unveil the next generation of Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers. These amplifiers are designed to meet the exacting standards of today’s bassists, enhancing their musical expression through in-demand features and fresh new designs.
The latest innovations in the Tone Hammer and AG series include the introduction of the Aguilar Cabinet Suite, dual XLR outputs, expanded connectivity options, and power section upgrades. These features not only provide superior sound quality and flexibility but also maintain the classic Aguilar performance that musicians have relied upon.
Key features of the next-generation amplifiers:
Aguilar Cabinet Suite: This new software allows players to load Aguilar ’s custom-designed SL/DB cabinet impulse responses (IRs), or their own custom IR files. This feature is available through both XLR and headphone outputs, offering new tone shaping and cabinet emulation options.
Dual XLR Outputs & Expanded Connectivity: Musicians can now tailor their tone and utilize cabinet IRs for their monitor mix, while also sending a pre-EQ ’d signal directly to the front-of-house. This dual functionality ensures optimal sound for both the artist and front-of-house. The new amplifiers include auxiliary input and headphone output options for silent practice. They also feature mix controls to fine-tune the listening experience, ideal for both practice and performance.
Upgraded Power Sections: Previously exclusive to Aguilar’s 700-series, the upgraded power sections in the Tone Hammer and AG 500 now support a 2.67 ohm load and include universal mains. These enhancements make the amplifiers perfect for international touring, offering seamless voltage adaptation.
“The new Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are a testament to Aguilar ’s commitment to world class sound and performance, providing bassists with the tools they need to define their sound on the global stage,” remarks Jordan Cortese, Brand Manager, Aguilar Musical Instruments.
The next-generation Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are available for purchase through www.aguilaramp.com and Aguilar’s extensive dealer network worldwide. For more information about the new amplifiers and other Aguilar products, please visit www.aguilaramp.com.
Gear News
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Spector offers Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses…
Spector, a leading authority in bass guitar design, unveils two new Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses. Synonymous with bass excellence since 1987, Wimbish collaborated with Spector’s USA Custom Shop to create the DW-4 and DW-5 models, echoing the iconic instruments that have been favored heavily throughout his recording and performing career.
These signature basses faithfully replicate Wimbish’s originals, down to the smallest details like neck contours and nut widths. Customized EMG pickups, developed in collaboration with Wimbish, capture the distinctive sound that has shaped his monumental musical impact. These models invite players to explore the feel and response that have defined Wimbish’s signature style over the years.
Available in 4-string and 5-string versions, each model boasts unique features & finish options. The DW-4 comes in Amber Stain Gloss and Black Stain Gloss options, while the DW-5 offers Dark Blue Stain Gloss and Faded Natural Gloss. Every purchase includes a certificate of authenticity signed by Doug Wimbish. Wimbish comments, “Spector took the time to get every little nuance right, and that to me is dedication and being thoughtful enough to know ‘I want to nail it,’ and they did. I’m able to pick these instruments up for the first time and play them like I’ve already had them for years.”
For more information, visit spectorbass.com/doug-wimbish-usa-signature-series/.
Photo: Doug Wimbish, pictured with the new Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses
Bass CDs
New Campaign: Alberto Rigoni, Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings
Italian bass master and composer ALBERTO RIGONI is thrilled to announce his brand new project “Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings”.
Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings features a super talented drummer from Japan (TBA) and tons of female guitarists such as SAKI, Giusy Busetto, Alexandra Zerner (TBC) and many many others (TBA). Furthermore, Alberto has also launched a Fundraising Campaign for the project. 20% of the income will be donated to Lega del Filo d’Oro legadelfilodoro.it/it, an Italian association that helps deaf and blind children!
Alberto shares:
“Hello friends and music lovers! I’m Alberto Rigoni, an Italian composer and.. a BASS GUY! Between 2008 and 2024 I released 13 solo albums, spanning from progressive, rock, ambient to funky and experimental music, which also features contributions from musicians such as keyboard wizard Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) drummer Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree) and Marco Minnemann (the Aristocrats), keyboardist Kevin Moore (ex Dream Theater), singer John Jeff Soto (ex Goran Edman (ex Y. Malmsteen), bassists Nathan East, Stu Hamm (Joe Satriani), Nik West (ex Prince) and many others. I’m also bass player for BAD As, Sunset Groove Society, Kim Bingham, The Italians bands and co-producer of Mistheria’s Vivaldi Metal Project.”
Alberto on the new project Nemesis Call:
“Even if my latest album “Unexpected Lullabies”, dedicated to my newborn Vittoria Parini Rigoni, will be released on June 4th, 2024, when Vittoria came to life I felt the need to compose new music (yes, I really can’t stop!!!!!). This time will be quite challenging because I’m willing to release an instrumental ambient/prog/rock/metal album, that will feature a talented and young drummer (TBA) and tons of female guitarists (that’s why I will call the album “Queens of the Strings”) such as Alexandra Zerner, YOKA and many others (TBA/TBC)). It won’t be easy to manage all such great musicians but I will make it!! Are you ready to face a new prog experience? The album will be released in Digipack CD and in high-quality digital format approximately at the beginning of 2025.”
The Fundraising Campaign:
As an independent artist, Alberto is looking for supporters who can help him reach the budget for the production (recordings, mix, mastering, artwork etc.) of this new album and has started this fundraising campaign that will end successfully on October 15th, 2024.
Get further information about Alberto Rigoni’s new project Nemesis Call Fundraising campaign at albertorigoni.net/nemesiscal
Bass Videos
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
Bassist Derek Frank…
Many of you will remember the last time I chatted with Derek Frank was back in 2017. The main thing that impressed me was how busy Derek was and how he juggled playing with many huge acts.
Now, I am happy to hear that Derek launched a new album last March titled “Origin Story” where he digs deep into his roots and pays homage to Pittsburg.
Join me as we get caught up after all these years and hear the details about the new album, how Derek gets his sound, and his plans for the future.
Photo, Stephen Bradley
Featured Videos:
Visit Online:
www.derekfrank.com
www.instagram.com/derekfrankbass
www.youtube.com/derekfrankbass
www.facebook.com/derekfrankbass
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This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Check out our top 10 favorite basses on Instagram this week…
Click to follow Bass Musician on Instagram @bassmusicianmag
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New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
New Campaign: Alberto Rigoni, Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings
Luthier Spotlight: Ellis Hahn of LEH Basses
Approach Notes – Part 6