tate music group...thoughts from our Artist of the Year

We got this message from Chuck Tocco, 2010 TMG Artist of the Year, and I wanted to share with you his thoughts.

Being Brought Before Great Men

I was thinking today about the scripture out of Proverbs 18:16 – A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men. I know God has blessed me with the gift of music, and I want to share this gift with the world. In doing so, I am not pursuing it for own personal gain, but for the advancement of the kingdom. I believe that God has brought me before great men, and for me that has been Tate Music Group. I knew that when I signed with Tate that I was making the right decision. I had prayed over this decision, and only being left with a feeling of peace. When signing the contract I read the “Mission Statement” and knew that they were Christ focused. This was the kind of people I wanted to partner with.

Tate as a company operates their business with an attitude of excellence. My experience all started with the director of acquisitions Brianne Webb who explained, directed, and gave me comfort about signing to the record label. I have worked side-by-side with my producer Jameson Reynolds, and watch him pour his heart and soul into my project. I saw the excellence of Janae Glass create a superb representation for the cover of my new release, “I Know That You Can Hear Me.” There are so many others who are working extremely hard to make this project a success. I can’t thank everyone enough for their dedication, and commitment.

During my visit to Oklahoma for the “Artist of the Year” contest I was able to get to know the staff, and their families on a more intimate level. I walked away from that experience feeling so excited about this new chapter in my life. Everyone I met was excited about their job, and their role in the company. There was no “I” in the vocabulary of anyone who I came into contact with. They all operated and functioned as a body, and they get things done with the highest level of excellence.

Many great artists are signing to the label, and having great success. If you feel God is leading you in this direction, pray about it, ask for God’s leading. Know that if you sign with Tate you’re not being scammed, but it’s an opportunity to make the vision God has placed in your heart become a reality.

Tate Music Group is quickly becoming recognized as one of the best record labels to partner with. Remember that the investment you are sowing into your ministry is small in comparison to the investment they are putting into you. They also, give you the opportunity to get that money back. Who does that? All you got to do is work hard, and be committed. Know that you are being brought before great men.

- Chuck Tocco

tate music group...commercial videos

I wanted to share with you one of the commercial videos we are doing here at Tate Music Group. It is incredible to see this kind of quality work and national exposure being created for our artists. I don't know of any other company that has the vision or drive that Tate Music Group has...and it all centers around doing what is going to help and enhance the artists we are blessed to work with.

So keep watching your television and keep a look out for these new spots. You can also check out some of the others at our Tate Music Group youtube channel - http://www.youtube.com/tatemusicgroup

tate music group...rockin' like a rolling stone

It has truly been an incredibly exciting month or so here at Tate Music Group...even more so than normal. I've sat in meetings and discussed the present state of the music industry (and how TMG is leading the charge into the future) with some of the major players including Kenny Rogers, Jim Mazza (Capitol Records), Jim Halsey, and...just today...Neal McCoy (more on that in a later post).

It is so exciting to be a part of a company like Tate Music Group...and to take part in both casting vision and helping make sure that it comes to pass. As I look to the coming new year...I can hardly wait to see what awaits us.

But...this post is really about something that I think is just 'cool.' Jim Halsey, one of the biggest names in Nashville, presented a signed and concert played guitar to our Founder, Dr. Richard Tate. The guitar is signed by the Rolling Stones...as in THE Rolling Stones. They are one of maybe 3 or 4 bands/artists who have forever shaped and influenced the face and sound of the music industry.

Pretty cool, huh?

tate music group...making waves in nashville

Some of our Tate Music Group executive staff just came back from meetings in Nashville. They were meeting with some of the biggest and most influential names in music - Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Jim Mazza - Capitol Records, and Jim Halsey...to name a few.

In short, the meetings were to discuss the state of the music industry and how and what TMG is doing that is so completely different - not the least of which is being successful.

Needless to say, a lot of things were discussed as to what we do here at Tate Music Group. We have a model that is so completely unorthodox (in regards to the 'normal' label industry) that many can't believe we can actually do what we do for our artists. It is unheard of for a label to be in the kind of partnership that TMG goes into with artists...not to mention the fact that we don't own the masters of an artists' music...nor are they obligated to stay with us any longer than they want!

I guess if you sit back and look at it through the eyes of those business men and executives who have done it the 'normal' way for so long...and have grown up in the Nashville/Major Label environment...it is easy to see why Tate Music Group's ideas and model would seem so incredibly different...even radical...

But for us, its just how we do it...and its doing great!

tate music group...beyond the music

This doesn't have anything to do with music...but it is very exciting news that I wanted to share with all of cyberworld. Most people know that Tate Publishing is the parent company of Tate Music Group. Our book side helps to publish and promote the books of great writers so that the message and stories can be shared nationwide and beyond.

I just received news that one of the books we are blessed to work with, Day of War by Cliff Graham, is in the development stage to be a major motion picture. That is awesome! Here is the quote from our marketing department about this possibility: "Filmmaker David Cunningham (To End All Wars and The Path to 9/11) and producer Grant Curtis (Spiderman franchise) are attached to the development of Day of War as a major motion picture."

The book is tremendous, by the way! It is a story about King David and his Mighty Men...and the happenings recorded in the books of Samuel and Chronicles. Very well written and incredibly entertaining! I am excited about this possibility for Cliff Graham...and for Tate Publishing. Who knows...maybe a Tate Music Group artist will be able to take care of the soundtrack.

Here is a link to the book - Day of War. Check it out.

tate music group...dot com

I just wanted to let everyone know that Tate Music Group has just completed a 'home page face-lift.' Now the TMG website homepage has even more information about events and happenings...and there's great music playing, too! Check it out at www.tatemusicgroup.com

tate music group...partners with Billboard World Song Contest

MUSTANG, OK – This week, Oklahoma-based record label Tate Music Group (TMG) has confirmed a new strategic sponsor partnership with the renowned Billboard World Song Contest.

As a sponsor for the contest, TMG will select one Grand Prize Winner to be awarded a TMG new artist development contract that includes recording a full album, event booking, and radio and web promotion. The agreement also expands the competition terms to include prizes for the top 36 entries in the contest, based on submissions from artists worldwide.

The Billboard World Song Contest was the first competition of its kind, and has made great strides in exposing first-time, unknown artists to the world through the Billboard World Song Contest Winners’ CD sent to music executives, producers, publishers, agents, promoters, and other music industry moguls.

Tate Music Group President Ryan Tate anticipates adding fresh new talent to their label, including their recent contract with American Idol songwriting contest winner Regie Hamm, who penned the number-one song, “The Time of My Life.”

“We are excited to announce this partnership and hope we can continue working hand-in-hand with Billboard World Song Contestto bring exposure to unknown talent across the world,” Tate said.

With this agreement, TMG joins Billboard World Song Contest partners CASIO, D’Addario Strings, TAXI-The Independent A& R Vehicle, Indie Band Manager, Discmakers, CD Baby, Blublocker Sunglasses, GoGirlsMusic.com, The Halsey Institute, and Sonicbids.com.

For more information, please visit www.tatemusicgroup.com


Billboard World Song Contest

tate music group...a great article

There is a great article about one of our TMG artists that I wanted to share. Tate Music Group is proud of our artist, Nisha, and grateful for her kind words! You can look at the article about her in this months Music Connection Magazine - check out page 26.

Here is the write-up:

“Like any dedicated artist...R&B singer Nisha Hester focused her energy on recording a masterpiece rather than seeking the perfect label. In her corner, however, was former manager, Eric Stancil, who took the time to research her options and mail press kits to potential takers. A likely prospect was...TMG Records.
Although TMG needs to hear at least 3 songs in order to choose an artist, one song in particular got the attention of their signing rep. “Where Did The Love Songs Go” had such an impact that she even included a special introduction in the contract that mentioned the impression-making track as the reason TMG wished to sign her.
‘There are several things I love about TMG,’ explains the rising diva. ‘I like the support and freedom they give to their artists. They allow their artists to maintain all the ownership - as far as songwriting royalties go, we own everything.’ Plus, she adds, ‘They give the highest royalty payments of all the labels out there.’ Also, Hester felt the weren’t hiding an agenda. “We have the freedom to cancel anytime we’re not happy. We can work with other third-party companies,’ she marvels. ‘We have so much freedom!’
There had been another label under consideration, but they asked for a significant chunk of money up front. Weighing the two options, it was clear which company offered the better deal. In fact, TMG’s deal was so generous that she signed without any negotiations.
‘It was almost too good to be true,’ she says. ‘I really didn’t have to think too much about it.’ The agreement itself goes a year and includes an option to renew. Hester recommends other artists to find the label of their dreams; she insists on persistence and never compromising. ‘This is your life – don’t just sign up to the first thing that comes your way.’ She states. ‘And never give up.’
Nisha’s debut, The Metamorphosis, was released in September.

- Andy Kaufmann
Music Connection Magazine”

tate music group...radio and media spots

I wanted to share some information with you regarding some cool happenings with our artist of the year, Jeff Chandler. Yesterday, Jeff kicked off his radio tour with a stop in the great city of Tulsa, OK. He was featured on KXOJ - did an interview and his song 'Because of You.'

This was exciting for a few reasons. Obviously, it is cool to hear Jeff on the radio and know just how much hard work was put into making that happen. It is also cool, however, because it is great to hear him share his heart and passion for the music he writes and performs. This is hands-down one of the best things about working at Tate Music Group. Music, for so many of our artists, is the expression of God's love, grace, and hope through them. It is ministry...even before it is entertainment. That is exciting to be a part of...and I am so glad that Jeff is able to share his music (and message) with the world.

You can hear the interview here.

tate music group...still growing

It is amazing to be able to see what is going on with Tate Music Group and our parent company, Tate Publishing. Most of our artists and authors don't even get to see it but we are growing at an incredible rate.

I find it amusing when I am giving a tour to a potential artist. The conversation always turns to "Wow, you guys are packing it in here?!" It is true, we are truly outgrowing (in fact, have outgrown) our current buildings (we have 5 separate locations within Mustang) and are now expanding again.

We have purchased a very large building across the street and are in the process of gutting it and rebuilding it to fit our needs - mainly the production side of our books and music. I am very excited because soon the Tate Music Group studios will be across the street, instead of a 10 minute car ride away.

It's the little things, you know?!

Seriously, we are all very excited about what is going on with Tate Music Group and Tate Publishing. I think the main reason is that this expansion just shows how successful and how hard-working our company and our staff truly are. As an artist, that would make me overjoyed - to know that the label I partner with is doing outstanding in, let's face it, a pretty rough economic climate nationwide.

There is something to be said about working hard, working honest, and trusting that God is always in control.

Now, let's put up some more sheet-rock!

tate music group...not the same ol' sock-hop

Dylan said it...'the times they are a changing.' He wasn't talking about the music industry...but I am. I am constantly amazed at the changes and decisions happening on a weekly, and sometimes daily, basis. It seems that as soon as I get through with the articles, etc, from this week...they change and redirect so you never really know which way you are heading.

To be honest, I love it. Granted, I don't love things like that in any other area of my life but with my work in the music industry, I love it. I think it is because I see what we are doing on a daily basis here at Tate Music Group and it fascinates me to see what everyone else is doing or not doing to try and stay afloat, musically and financially.

One of the areas that is constantly changing and cannot be overlooked is the marketing and promotion of music. More specifically, the social marketing/networking side of music. This is something that we talk about all the time. I am constantly talking to potential artists about the importance of having a network of people that you are in contact/connection with so they can know the music, vision, and person of you as an artist.

In our internet society, the social networking culture is vital if you want to have any chance of making it. Why? Well, the old school way of 'pushing' an artist is going away...faster than anyone could have expected. Instead, the 'pushing' comes from the viral and grassroots marketing that can be helped, immensely, by social networking sites like myspace, facebook, and twitter.

One question that might come up is, "Why bother with it?" Well, it all comes down to connection with the listener. Music is an emotional thing. It can help you heal, forget, grow, laugh, relax, or rock...depending on what is on your playlist. Because of that, an artist needs to not only write/perform good music that connects with the listener but they need to keep that connection alive by letting the listener in on a little piece of who they are...or even what they are doing.

Who cares what Taylor Swift is getting at Baskin Robbins? Well, for starters, the thousands and thousands of followers she has on facebook and twitter alone. I am sure that Taylor doesn't always want to share everything...and she doesn't have to. But, as a very smart business-woman, she (or her people) realizes the importance of her letting everyone know that her favorite flavor is cappucino white chocolate chunk with blue sprinkles (just a guess).

You see, when Taylor posts or tweets about her favorite ice cream, her followers/fans know that little piece about her and they probably go and try that very same flavor...which is good for Baskin Robbins. Now, when Taylor mentions (or tweets) that her new album is coming out on pre-sale in 1 week...she has no problem getting those ice cream junkies to go buy the album. It is new-marketing at its finest.

Now for most artists (who aren't on the same level as Taylor Swift), this marketing can and should happen...just on a smaller scale. This is one of the things Tate Music Group focuses on as we work with our artists. You have to realize the importance of getting and staying connected to the people that loved your concert and the EP they got from your table. Now, you have to make sure that they stay connected and informed about new concerts and the upcoming release of your album...so they can go get it as soon as possible and 'be the first.'

And it wouldn't hurt to let everyone what your flavor is...

tate music group...setting our own price

I received this information from some of our Executive Staff. I have to say, when I read it, I was blown away. Not by the facts and numbers that are presented...I knew what to expect there. I was blown away by the candid-ness of this author...willing to share her 'fortunes' (or misfortunes) with anyone who is willing to read them.

Now, you may say, "What does a book deal have to do with my music career/contract?" A lot. Yes they are different in subject/product but not in nature. The basic principle has always been the same for the publisher/label - get as much as you can out of the 'artist'...and then get some more.

Please hear me...I am not trying to say that individuals or companies are crooks, cheats, etc...I am, however, saying that the system that has been in place for a long, long time is not friendly or warm to the artists (or authors) who create the brilliance they sell.

At Tate Music Group, our vision and purpose is to change this model and mindset. We want to be more concerned with working together with our artists, side by side, instead of walking on their backs to get to the end goal. Success usually comes with a price...but Tate Music Group (and Tate Publishing) are not willing to pay the same types of ethical costs that have plagued this industry for so long.

Instead, we are setting our own price...and the outcome is gain.

Here is the article:

A few years ago I made a promise to my writer friends that if I ever had a novel hit the top twenty of the New York Times mass market bestseller list that I would share all the information I was given about the book so writers could really see what it takes to get there. Today I’m going to keep that promise and give you the stats on my sixth Darkyn novel, Twilight Fall.

Here is the first royalty statement for Twilight Fall, on which I’ve only blanked out Penguin Group’s address. Everything else is exactly as I’ve listed it. To give you a condensed version of what all those figures mean, for the sale period of July through November 30, 2008. my publisher reports sales of 64,925 books, for which my royalties were $40,484.00. I didn’t get credit for all those sales, as 21,140 book credits were held back as a reserve against possible future returns, for which they subtracted $13,512.69 (these are not lost sales; I’m simply not given credit for them until the publisher decides to release them, which takes anywhere from one to three years.)

My net earnings on this statement was $27,721.31, which was deducted from my advance. My actual earnings from this statement was $0.

My advance for Twilight Fall was $50,000.00, a third of which I did not get paid until the book physically hit the shelf — this is now a common practice by publishers, to withhold a portion of the advance until date of publication. Of that $50K, my agent received $7,500.00 as her 15% (which she earns, believe me) the government received roughly $15,000.00, and $1594.27 went to cover my expenses (office supplies, blog giveaways, shipping, promotion, etc.) After expenses and everyone else was paid, I netted about $26K of my $50K advance for this book, which is believe it or not very good — most authors are lucky if they can make 10% profit on any book. This should also shut up everyone who says all bestselling authors make millions — most of us don’t.

Just as a side note - if this author would have worked with our parent company, Tate Publishing...the net earnings would have been almost 4 times as much. Just FYI.

tate music group...a buzz

That's right. A buzz. There is a buzz happening in the music world surrounding Tate Music Group and what we are doing with and for up and coming artists. This past week/weekend, some of our Executive Staff traveled to the Gospel Music Awards. They spent their time going to concerts, showcases, and interviews for our Artist of the Year, Jeff Chandler (who knocked it out of the park!). It was a great time for Jeff...and for TMG.

It seems that the music world just doesn't know what to do with Tate Music Group. Our president, Ryan Tate, was asked over and over again about how and why Tate Music Group works and what the secret to our success is. In fact, a good number of these questions were asked of him during an hour long interview he had with Billboard Magazine.

The secret is...there is no secret. Just a lot of vision, passion, and a ton of hard work. Tate Music Group has taken the best of the 'industry' and discarded the rest. We know how important it is for artists to retain their rights and freedoms. We know that artists want to have control over what they do. We know that artists can't do it all on their own and need help. And we know that so many channels won't work directly with artists...unless they have a label backing them up.

With all that in mind...Tate Music Group was started. TMG is able to provide the services, support, and opportunities that artists need to have a chance to make it in this industry. The difference is that, unlike so many other companies and labels, we walk side by side...and not on top of the artists we work with. Partnership is key for this to work...and it is working very well.

Another question that was asked a lot - "how is Tate Music Group so successful at a time when the music industry is struggling and in a decline?" The answer to that is hard work, incredible leadership, and great choices.

Allow me to take an example from a sport I love to do, cycling. The reason why Lance Armstrong is the greatest of all time isn't because he outsmarted the competition or had better equipment during the Tour de France. He is the greatest because he pulled away, during the mountain sections, when the rest of the pack tried to just maintain and not fall apart. He was willing to outwork everyone else...especially when everyone else was struggling to survive.

Similarly, the 'industry' is struggling...fighting the economy, piracy, unhappy artists, etc. Tate Music Group, on the flip, is growing, expanding, hiring...you get the idea. As a company, our leadership has kept us free from debt and placed us in a position to excell and change the face of the music industry. In fact, we are already seeing that happen...in Nashville of all places...

Every once in a while I talk to an artist who just isn't sure and tells me they want to "wait and see about us." Well, Tate Music Group is moving fast and picking up speed. I hope they don't miss the boat...

tate music group...the 4th thing

I received a letter from an artist who just signed with Tate Music Group. I am very excited that she is now a part of the TMG family for many reasons. First, she has a very beautiful voice and a lot of musical talent. Second, this has been a dream she has pursued for a very long time. And last but not least, she knows what it will take to make it to the next step. In other words...she gets it.

This is a very hard business to break into. Certain television programs, among other things, have given a false sense of ease regarding what it truly takes to find success. You have to be talented, you have to have incredible work ethic, and you definitely need to have what some would consider 'luck' (or maybe just really good networking...).

Another thing that is needed, though, to make this pursuit a true possibility is a strong team backing you up...helping to create opportunities and opening doors. This is something that so many indie artists just don't have. They have the first 3 but they are reluctant to move into a partnership with a label because of their fear, and rightly so, of losing their creative freedoms and their music rights.

At Tate Music Group, however, the artists we work with need not worry about that. One of the greatest parts about Tate Music Group is that our artists receive the benefits of the 4th thing (the team behind the artist and music) while maintaining their freedoms and control of who they are as artists. For me, hearing the stories I hear every week about bad contracts, etc...that freedom would be worth a lot.

I am so excited to see new artists join our TMG family. Obviously I am biased towards what we do and how we do it but, I have to be honest, I am constantly impressed at what we are able to do and offer the artists we are blessed to work with. It truly is an amazing thing to see our artists receive the 4th thing...without having to give up any of the other things that have gotten this far.

tate music group...endorsement from a man who knows

Our founder, Dr. Richard Tate, told us about a great comment he received about Tate Music Group from a close friend of his...who just happens to be a very big name in the music industry. This friend, Jim Halsey, is responsible (in all or in part) for the careers of such stars as Reba, Little Richard, Garth, The Oak Ridge Boys, Clint Black, James Brown, and countless others. Needless to say...he knows the business and when he hands out a compliment and an endorsement...you would do well to listen.

He told Dr. Tate that what we are doing here at Tate Music Group is much needed within the music industry. We provide the kind of service, team, and opportunity that artists need in order to find success and growth within the music industry. What most people find crazy is that we do and provide all this without taking away any rights (music or otherwise) from the artists we work with. Unorthodox? Yes. A better option than all the others? Absolutely!

I had the chance to meet Jim Halsey when he took part in judging the Tate Music Group 'Artist of the Year' Contest. It was a true pleasure to be able to talk with someone who has so much history and knowledge of this business. And I wasn't the only one to think this. After the contest, our artists had a chance to talk with Jim and pick his brain about what they needed to do better and how they should approach other aspects of their music career. It was a great site to see these artists soaking up the knowledge he was sharing. Cool stuff.

I guess that is why I feel so honored and happy at the comments that Jim made regarding Tate Music Group. It is great, and even inspiring, to know that what you are working hard for everyday, because you know it is the best thing for artists and their music, is being acknowledged by those who know the music industry as the way to go.

Now, if I can just get Jim to listen to my Nu-Jazz/Country album I've been working on...

tate music group...oh what a night

It has now been over 24 hours since the inaugural Tate Music Group 'Artist of the Year Contest' ended. And boy did it end with a bang! So many of us put in countless hours of planning, talking, changing, running, organizing, hoping, and praying to try and make this event a success. What we experienced Friday night was more than I think any of us, if we were truly honest, could have thought possible.

Don't get me wrong...we know we have tremendous artists and a 1st rate staff to put everything together...but, you have to look at the fact that this was the 1st, the inaugural, 'Artist of the Year Contest' and we were running in the dark (so to speak). I don't think we thought it could turn out as flawlessly (and wildly successful) as it did. Please hear me, I am in no way trying to throw out negativity...I am trying to shine light on our incredible staff, artists, and production team that put together an unforgettable performance event that will be very hard to beat in the following years.

Besides the incredible planning, production, and execution of the night's event...one of the things that I will take with me forever was the support and comradery I saw between all of our artists. That was truly a special thing. Sure, each of the finalists wanted to win the contest and take home the biggest prize...but you could tell that they were all routing for each other as well. At one point I heard that a few of the artists were in one artist's hotel room, playing an acoustic guitar and singing the songs that influenced them. That kind of connection is special...especially since it happened within about 36 hours.

In case you haven't heard, Jeff Chandler was the winner and is the Tate Music Group 'Artist of the Year.' We are so happy for Jeff and his family and we are excited about what this year is going to bring him. We are also excited about the other finalists: SallyJane, Ron Walters, The Cliftones, and Sarah Scharff. They are all tremendous talents and have very, very bright futures ahead of them.

Standing around after the show, I was able to hear some of the commentary made by our judging panel (which consisted of some very influential music industry professionals). The consensus was the same. It was hard to pick a winner because every one of the artists gave a tremendous performance. It was also unanimous that the future for these artists is as bright as they want it to be.

I am so glad that Tate Music Group can be a major part of helping them shine.

(If you missed the show...you can check out a replay here. Enjoy.)

tate music group...a busy new year

November and December were very busy times for me. I mean, you had Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, not to mention about 20 'dirty santa' parties to attend. I still don't know what I am going to do with a ceramic tea pitcher shaped like a duck.

So January should be a great relief, a slow down from the hustle and bustle of the holiday months, right? Not hardly. I think this month is proving to be just as busy as the last two...and its really disrupting my sleep patterns. Maybe January is a bit hectic because a new year brings new excitement and new possibilities? I'll buy that. I think that is very true.

At Tate Music Group, there are a lot of new exciting events, plans, and possibilities. One exciting plan is the growth and increase of Tate Music Group. In the past year, we have doubled our staff and created a movement that is already starting to knock the doors off of the music industry. This coming year, we will again be doubling, perhaps tripling, the size of our staff as well as our distribution and other marketing tools. It is a very exciting time to be a part of Tate Music Group.

Unlike other companies who try and maintain in order to keep afloat, Tate Music Group seeks to expand and grow because of the success, strong leadership, and smart choices we have made to get where we are. It is because of these aggressive moves and plans we are able to grow and set the standard for how artists should be treated and partnered with.

One of the major events, which I have mentioned before, is our Artist of the Year Contest. We are already collecting the many, many song entries we will receive...and this is just the beginning. What I have noticed is just how many great artists we have. How will anyone judge and narrow those down? There are so many great songs, all competing for one grand prize. That's a wonderful problem to have...I'm just glad it isn't up to me.

So, I guess I'll try and get some rest when I can and realize that all the hard work and extra hours will be worth it...especially when I see the satisfaction on the faces of our artists. At Tate Music Group, we want our artists to know that we are fully committed to helping them succeed...because when they succeed, we succeed.

This truly is a great partnership...and this will definitely be a great year.

tate music group...2009: a look ahead

Well, another year has been booked and the new year begins. I only have about 16% battery life left on my laptop so I will be brief. And yes, tonight, I am just lazy enough to not go get my plug-in to recharge. My apologies to those of you looking for a good, long read. I just want to take a moment to look ahead at what this new year already has in store for Tate Music Group and our artists.

In March, Tate Music Group will hold the inaugural Artist of the Year Contest. I have to say, there was a bit of a frenzy to get everything in by the 31st. It was a lot of fun, though. It is going to be very difficult for the judges to pick one winner from the amazing pool of artists we have. I know I couldn't do it.

Tate Music Group will also, in 2009, sell a lot of CDs. This isn't necessarily a 'look how great we are' statement but a 'look how great our artists are' statement. We put the channels and work in place to allow for sales but it is the tremendously talented musicians and artists we are blessed to work with who really make it happen. That is what makes this such a great partnership.

Last but not least, Tate Music Group will have hundreds and hundreds of events for our artists all over the country. I am really excited about this. Concerts and signings, as well as interviews, are so vital for success. It takes a lot of work and getting out there to really build up a fan-base and a following. I have read that it takes 100 true fans to be a success. Why? Because those 100 people will be your most reliable attendees, your biggest bullhorns, and your personal and unlimited invitation force. They will be the ones showing up to your shows and signings with 10 of their friends. Multiply that by hundreds and hundreds of shows and you get...well...its too late for complicated math problems but you get the idea. A lot!

As I look ahead to 2009, it looks really bright for Tate Music Group and the artists we are privileged to work with...and for those we have yet to meet. So I say to you all, Happy New Year...because I know it truly will be!

tate music group...the state of tate

Last night was the annual Tate Music Group and Tate Publishing Christmas party. What an experience that was. There was great food, presents and prizes, and very unusual entertainment. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. Needless to say, it was a night that will not soon be forgotten.

As much as I would love to describe the silly skits that were performed or the amazing generosity shown by the Tate family (raffle prizes and gifts were everywhere), I have another reason for this post.

Every year Ryan Tate, President of Tate Publishing and Enterprises, LLC, addresses the entire staff in what we call the 'State of Tate Address.' It is a time where he tells us about the past year...what we have accomplished...where we need to improve...and how many sodas and brownie bites we have consumed as a staff in the cafe. Although there were a lot of funny statements made about staff food consumption, two figures really stood out to me and made me that much more thankful to be a part of Tate Music Group and the Tate Publishing family.

1. In 2008, Tate Music Group and Tate Publishing set up over 24,000 events for our arists and authors all over the United States. Also in 2008, Tate Music Group and Tate Publishing sold over 1.4 million CDs and books through events and distribution. That is incredible! What really stands out to me is that these are more than just numbers, they are a true measure of success, hard work, and great business strategy. We have a proven track record and it is apparent that our artists and authors are benefiting greatly from this.

2. In 2008, Tate Music Group and Tate Publishing gave over $660,000 in unsolicited funds to local, national, and overseas ministries focused on proclaiming and furthering the Kingdom of God. Wow! What an incredible incentive for success. It is such a blessing to work for a company that has its priorities in order.

It is no wonder that Tate Publishing and Enterprises, LLC, which includes Tate Music Group, was voted as one of the best places to work in 2008. For you artists and authors alike, there is no doubt in my mind that this is the best company to work with to help you accomplish all your dreams and goals.

I can't wait to see what 2009 brings...

tate music group...artist of the year

Everybody loves contests. Its true. Don't believe me? I'm willing to bet that if you are a college football fan, like me, you were very busy this weekend doing nothing but watching the last Saturday of the regular season. And, I'm willing to bet that most of you, during the halftime shows, were getting all hyped up watching those guys and gals trying to throw footballs into over-sized soda cans. If you are anything like me, you were thinking about how you totally could have done that better than everybody else. Am I right?

Well, I can't really help you when it comes to those 'giant cola can challenges.' As a Tate Music Group artist, however, I can help you regarding that drive and competitive nature you have deep within your being. How? By giving you the chance to beat out all the rest of the competition.

December 31st, 2008 marks the end date for eligibility into the inaugural Tate Music Group 'Artist of the Year Contest.' I realize many of you may have no idea what I am talking about. Allow me to explain. This will be the first year we will be putting our artists' songs and styles against each other in friendly competition.

Each TMG artist will choose one of their songs to enter into this contest. The songs will be judged in many different rounds and by many different judges and factors. The top finalists will be invited to come to Oklahoma City, all expenses paid, to perform their song live for a panel of guest celebrity judges. Everybody will have an amazing time...and the grand prize winner will head home with over $20,000 in cash and prizes. Not bad for one nights work.

Needless to say, we are all really excited about this contest. For one, it is going to be a great time. It is also going to be a great opportunity for Tate Music Group to show our artists how much we appreciate them. I have no idea what the outcome will be. There are so many great artists in the TMG family...and there is still plenty of time for others to join this year.

Who knows...it may be you?