"Kiss it or diss it." That's what disc jockeys say to listeners when they're looking for feedback on a new hip-hop or rap song. Getting good audience feedback is one of the primary steps in "making it happen" for aspiring artists in hip-hop and rap. Using a format similar to the one adopted in their earlier Musician's Guide to the Music Business, the producers have created a more specialized program here tailored to hip-hop/rap artists. Combining interviews with a wide range of managers, producers, and recording industry executives, with overviews of print resources, important conferences, and a few music video clips, the video covers getting started, building a core audience, submitting demo tapes, hiring a manager, and striking a deal. In addition, a special section is devoted to the issue of sampling--using portions of other copyrighted works in one's songs--which is often an expensive proposition: the artist either pays sometimes hefty clearance or royalty fees upfront or legal fees later if the rights weren't cleared. While phone numbers are given for the publications listed in the video, the narrator encourages viewers to check with their local book stores or libraries. A good guide to a major segment of today's music business, this is strongly recommended for public library collections. (R. Pitman)
Make It Happen! In Hip-Hop & Rap
(1995) 40 min. $39.95 ($89.95 w/PPR). RMD & Associates. Color cover. Vol. 11, Issue 2
Make It Happen! In Hip-Hop & Rap
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