Okeedoke. If you are a regular on AML, you should be noticing some shifts and changes here. Here’s the deal:
1. Industry influencers here in the USA read AML and let me know they do.
2. My fellow entertainment lawyers here in the USA also read AML and they also let me know they do.
3. Other African groups beyond Nigerians, across Africa, read AML and they also let me know they do.
4. All the above are intrigued or have an interest, particularly, in Nigeria’s music market.
5. Every Nigerian artist I have ever interacted with, on some level, wants to or is trying to get into the USA market. Almost all have no clue, regardless of how popular they are on the continent, how to penetrate this market or how the laws with respect to the creative arts (music) work here. I’ve written a book that should help resolve this. Keep it locked in 2013 and fingers crossed, it should be published next year.
6. Accordingly, I am streamlining some things and introducing the following changes beyond the new site look:
a) I come harder. It is in my DNA, especially where the word “law” is the mix. If you don’t like direct kind of people, especially women that are direct, please log off. My website is not for you. It will upset you and will be bad for your health. Coming harder means you should also see articles focused on Nigeria, USA and other African countries on AML with that sting that is uniquely me.
b) I kicked the widget to the curb listing AML executives with hopes to roll out a membership related platform on the site in the early part of 2013. This part should parse out some key industry professionals in Africa’s music industry. Once my programmer gets in and begins redesigning that aspect of the site, you should be able to submit the information yourselves so we truly create a strong community of industry professionals and influencers from across Africa.c) Going forward, for articles that take up a lot of more time and brain power, there will be limited access i.e. you will have to login to access those articles. Every other article will not require that you login.
6) Contributors: I welcome contributors but please know your stuff. I am interested, right now, in persons who take deep pleasure in spotting the next big thing, sort of like a virtual AML A&R. I’d like for you to tell me and the AML community whose sound we should be listening to. Hit me up if interested. I am looking for mature persons in the industry who understand and are “committed” to what they do. If you don’t have the time to give, don’t waste my time or yours.
7. Advertising: I have been and continue to be approached about advertising on AML. I’d rather not at this time. However, if you are the following persons looking to advertise, send me your proposal and I’ll take a look:
a) Artist-Managers looking to work with talented artists
b) Organizers of Music Business Conferences/Summits
c) Dope artists pushing an online campaign
d) Producers interested in working with dope artists
8. Speaking: Thanks to the many that continue to solicit me to speak. However, please get your act together before you contact me. Your proposal should tell me the date, time, event, what you want me to do, explain accommodations and travels and make an offer as to fees for my time. If you are not on that level yet, understood. Wait till you get there.
For non-profit organizations and students/schools, feel free to contact me. I am open to working with your non-profit organization so long as your goals/mission is aligned with mine.
Thanks all.
Talk soon.
-Uduak