I have come across many people while on my path to success in this music industry. My hard work and hustler's ambition has allowed me to meet some very great people who not only share my passion but who also work hard to help others achieve their same level of success.There are some who I have gained immense admiration and respect for in this business and for those reasons i would like to introduce you to one of the most important individuals i have worked with during my career - Catalyst
(Catalyst and Sarah Johnson - at Frankford Wayne Mastering Studio, Ny)
Welcome Sarah Johnson of SubUrban Entertainment/ PMPWorldwide.com to the Catty World Community:
CATALYST: Ok for the people that don't know about you or know exactly what you do, Give them a brief summary of the role you play within the music industry?
SARAH J: What's good everyone? I manage a few Producers. I also set up the artist track dumps and interviews on PMPWorldwide.com. It's the BIGGEST online producer community where producers can dump tracks directly to A&Rs/ managers/ artists in hopes for placements (sarah smiles). It's also a cool site to network with producers from all around the world.
CATALYST: How long have you been in this business and how did you get your very first start?
SARAH J: I've been rockin since 1998. One of my best friends "Big Jus" Producer/ Engineer taught me alot about the game. I used to live in DC and work out of alot of studios. I'm a hip hop head to the fullest, So I was always very involved in music. I'm a heavy grinder so I'm always networking.
CATALYST: Who are some of the artist and producers you have worked with in the music industry?
SARAH J: A little of everyone.. Catalyst, JadaKiss, Mya, Qwote, Jim Jones, Quan, DMX, Pink, B2k, etc
CATALYST: What are your feelings now, on the Music Industry and the direction it is heading in?
SARAH J: The music industry is forever changing. Adapt to the times or die basically. Protools and different software programs definitely changed the recording game. Anyone can make a record now. I think it will go back to cutting records on the big boards. It's important that we focus more on artist development. It's all about an artist live performance now. If you have no real stage presence, It's hard to develop a fan base. Those two factors go hand in hand with selling records. It's amazing how many major artists are getting dropped from their label situations, and moving on to Indie/ 360 deals/ online distribution, etc.
CATALYST: Do you think there is too much politics in the game right now with Radio, Djs, A&R's, and Record Labels?
SARAH J: Oh yea this game is very political. We all know that (sarah smiles). You could have the hottest beats and all the connections in the world, but you're giving your music to an A&R who has 5 producers underneath him. Or the A&R is pushing his own artist on the side. It's nutz! That's why you have to hit from all angles and get directly to the artist. With DJs, It's good to have solid relationships with them. Some of them want bread to spin your records. Some will cut you a favor, all depends. I have really learned not to take things so personal in this buisness. You can't let it get to you. Just keep pushing and Surround yourself with people that want to see you get ahead.
CATALYST: When Artist or Producers send you music, What is the deciding factor in whether you work with them or not?
SARAH J: With producers it's really about their melodies. Do they put mad breaks and switch ups in their tracks. I listen to the drums and arrangements. I know when I'm feeling a producer after the first couple of tracks I hear. As far as Artists, I look at how heavy their fan base is. If they are buzzin on the mixtape scene, Do they have star quality and swagg, a hot image. It's crucial that their hooks are polished and songs are well formatted.
CATALYST: What type of advice would you give an Up & Coming Producer or Artist trying to break in this business?
SARAH J: Find out what projects are currently being worked on. Try to create music for those artists in mind. Network with all your local djs, radio stations, music outlets. Build up your name and your brand. Follow up with A&Rs/Managers regarding music you sent them. Do it enough to stay on their radar, but not too much to annoy them (sarah smiles). If you're an Artist, It's so important to rock shows and really develop your fan base. Why would an A&R want to sign you if no one in your city knows who you are? Always make sure your paperwork is tight. Whether It's a one-sheet binding a producer to the artist for a certain period of time. Make sure you always have documentation of beats you send out, invoices, etc. To protect yourself and get credits for your work.
(Sarah J and Schuler "A&R" at SRC Records)
CATALYST: Based on your experience, What advice would you offer the Next generation of individuals looking for a career in your field?
SARAH J: I would say to find a lane that works for you and stick to it. Research everything that goes along with a certain position. Network as much as possible, Intern at a label, radio station, studio. A place where you will always run into people that can help you become successful. This is a full time grind. "While you sleep we creep (sarah smiles) and only the strong survive."
CATALYST: Excellent, Well I know you're a Very busy woman so last question. How can people contact you, Myspace, Etc ?
SARAH J: Myspace -www.Myspace.com/saej
EMAIL - Saejent2@gmail.com (for tracks and artists)
CATALYST: Well on behalf of all of my members I would like to thank You for allowing me the privilege to interview you and have you share your wisdom and experience with the community.
SARAH J: Thank you, Take care Catty (sarah smiles)
VIDEO LINK
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