Friday, August 27, 2010

Can I do this?

Many wonder if Voice-overs are right for them! This is a trade that you should learn to love, and love to learn. My experience in the industry has given me true insight as to the realities and possibilities for a talent pursuing voice-over. In a sea of voices there is many more people getting in to this business, that can be a little freighting and exciting if you are in it for the long run. I have had many mentors throughout my career and almost positive that there will be more as I stick with my profession. Like many businesses, there will be up’s and downs and the downs sometimes can feel like an eternity. The one certainty if you love this business and continue to learn and seek out true professionals that will work with you…your bottom line should start growing. I have found that excellence is only achieved through hard work; and real life experiences that broaden ones prospective to give you a full view, as to all you can be. So can you do this? I think the bigger question is will you do this? If succeeding matters to you, remember the price that was paid for you… to call yourself an American! That should motivate anyone that truly gets it.http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Voice-over JAUNDRA’s

As I tell my students studying Voice-over, there are as many different reads in voice-over as music Jaundra’s! Knowing this is very important and critical to your success. A seasoned professional will know this and certainly will stay in their range of delivery. Not many people are great narrators or story tellers, yet they have a read that works best for them. They say variety is the spice of life..YES and the more you can do the better. My rule of thumb is read as much copy as you can stomach, in doing so you should get an idea of what you’re good at; and what is just not you. If you’re looking to broaden your appeal, pick up your listening skills and let a specific delivery speak to you! Listen to that read/delivery only until you nail it. Mastering individual reads will open more doors and put more money into your bank account. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Monday, May 24, 2010

Realizing your potential

Have you ever doubted yourself? It’s not that you suffer from depression or low self esteem; it’s when you just don’t know what to think…you’re at the point where you just don’t know what to do! I have been there, and you know what…it helps me to go through that now and then to reset. A good old fashioned reality check sometimes is in order. In business you’re in control of your destiny, I believe that; and hope you do as well. If you are going to realize your full potential in Voice-over, jump off the cliff and enjoy the ride….Yes it’s unnerving, but it’s worth the risk and the lessons learned. If I hadn’t gone into the production business and rented a location many years ago, I wouldn’t have realized what a blessing it is to work for myself. Stop look and listen, advice given to children when crossing the road...Its advice we adults need all the time. Take advantage of daily opportunities all around you...Who knows, you may even surprise yourself! http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Show me the money

Jerry McGuire’s line “Show me the money” has been my motto and business principle. I just think if you are good, you shouldn’t have to lower your price! Sure there’s plenty who will; and cheapen their worth in my opinion. Your reputation in how low you can go will travel to fast. If this is your bread and butter so to speak, let them know you have mouths to feed! I don’t feel bad asking what I feel I’m worth, and you shouldn’t either. Have you ever paid for something that others would say you were crazy for doing so? It’s because you felt good about your purchase, the same holds true in how much you sell yourself for! Reputation is all too important, set your sights higher, be better and ask them to show you the money! http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Friday, April 9, 2010

A recession proof job

As the recession continues, companies still needs to reach consumers and that means voice-over talent make money! Make no mistake about it...Voice-over and advertizing a multibillion dollar industry that continues to make headway. Whether you want to supplement your income or make a great living, voice-over opportunities are plentiful.

As a talent that voices commercials for radio & TV, I can tell you agency representation is the key to working!!! If you are seeking representation don’t stop until you have an agent that believes in you and is getting you work. Not all will come to you immediately, some may say; call us when you land a big deal...Still others not even a mere response? And you wonder what is going on right! My best advice to you all is this…. Keep your demo up to date, Have your demo gone through by industry professionals, keep dialing, continue practicing your craft, and never give up! Theres work out there, go get it. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Monday, March 22, 2010

My best voice-over ever

What was your best voice-over ever? The one that you felt was important to brag about? I was privileged to have done some Voice work for the late Peter Jennings of “World News Tonight” What a thrill it was to know it made it on Network TV. Not everything you will do will have that kind of prestige! I am cutting a sales presentation today for Checkers/Rally’s National sales convention, and I feel that this work is just as important. The point I wish to make here should be apparent…All work is important and were only as good as our last spot! Enjoy the ride many more great commercials, coming up. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Thursday, March 18, 2010

To be good at something

For any great achievement to take hold; hard work and vision were always part of the plan! During training there is always rough weather, and temporary setbacks that can seem at times strong enough to knock us off our feet. What makes people great is getting up after each setback and never giving in to defeat. Life is a gift and knowing that in itself should give you the motivation to try great things and dream big things! Perhaps you needed to read this, I am happy that my motivation can become a help to move you forward in your pursuits. Keep the faith, keep positive things around you, and never forget that to be good at something you have to put your heart into it. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com