05.09.07
After weeks of travel I am finally back in sunny and beautiful Alabama and could not be more thrilled. Our yearly CIMS conference in LA was fantastic. Everyone was in an upbeat mood and we had great discussions about how to survive and thrive in this crazy market.
NARM in Chicago was also fantastic. We had really great meeting with many labels who seem eager to work on ideas that are out of the box. We had a fruitful meeting with A2IM where we were extended an associate membership. This exciting group that is representing the Indie Label community seems like it is operating on a very advanced level from even a year ago. We had great talks with everyone about vinyl, catalog and keeping physical goods exciting. We had great conversations and panels about digital music and the indie stores place in that world. The hotel was PERFECT for the conference in every way. Thanks to Jim Donio and his excellent staff for providing such a good environment for business this year.
I would be remiss if I did not say how sad we are at the downsizing at WEA yesterday. I know it was a very tough day for the victims and the survivors. I suspect WEA is not the only one planning this "right sizing" to match the current marketplace. Good luck to everyone who is on the streets. Please send us personal email addresses. We want to stay in touch.