Esmé’s frenetic rock relies on heavy guitar chords corralled by pop hook sensibility. Dueling lead vocalists offer a different approach to well trodden contemporary rock paths and revel in angst-ridden harmonies. Based in Atlanta’s thriving music scene, Esmé gigs relentlessly up and down the east coast and throughout the South, earmarking towns and venues along the way, and earning hordes of staunchly dedicated young fans in the process. Sample Esmé here on “These Dreams Are Real.” myspace.com/esme

Atlanta singer/songwriter John Pringle’s mellow rock mulls over typical situations and his protagonists’ reactions. Different moods find Pringle occasionally channeling Bruce Springsteen or David Gray — Springsteen when he’s spinning yarns, Gray when he’s lazily pondering. The son of an actress and stockbroker, John worked on Wall Street and in London before finally giving in to his musical calling. Tune in to John Pringle here on “Vanished Fortunes of Foolish Men.” myspace.com/johnpringle

The Beggars’ Guild aim to pick up and run with the torch of quintessential Americana rock, and their debut EP, Breaking Me Down, finds the Georgia quartet on the right path. Not afraid to wield a pulsing steel guitar or thick harmonies, the band employs the aforementioned weapons and more to create toe-tapping hooks in the happy tradition of southern summer rock. Infectious without sacrificing soul, hear The Beggars’ Guild here on “Minnesota (Always Leaving).” myspace.com/thebeggarsguild

Tx/Rx’s fiery tunes employ twin electric guitars to enhance the tense atmospheres stoked by lead vocalist Kevin Arthur. Moods shift from frenzied to eerie and lollygagging, scooping the listener up for the occasional emotional rollercoaster. Co-writers and co-conspirators, the band positions the song at its core, all the while singing and strumming with passionate conviction. Meet Tx/Rx here on their original song “Chances.” myspace.com/txrxspace

BMI’s “See It Hear First” podcast has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, millions of listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions. Past 'cast artists including singer/songwriter Brendan James, rockers somedaynew, Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela, Canadian crossover band Soul Kid #1 and country-pop combo the Zac Brown Band have all grabbed the industry's attention through the BMI podcast, with some landing major recording and publishing deals, and others on the verge of being signed.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of new talent, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000.

Tune in to bmi.com/podcast to hear all 18 editions of the BMI podcast, the first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory. The "See It Hear First" series is also available from iTunes at bmi.com/itunes, from Yahoo! at podcasts.yahoo.com, or though Pod2Mob.com.

Ivory’s piano-laden tracks excel in instigating dreamy gaits through dewy-eyed memories and yearnings. Recorded at Smart Studios in Madison, WI, the band’s self-released EP introduced their bubbly piano pop to indie rock connoisseurs. Ivory’s spruce arrangements embody mass appeal, capable of Generation Y adoration and baby-boomer appreciation. Kick back with a glass of red wine and Ivory’s “Coast of Maine.”

Tally Hall graciously side-step genre pigeon-holing. Vocalist/guitarist Joe explains: "If a certain idea requires a certain sound, then why limit ourselves?" The Boston Herald praises Tally Hall’s mix of “vintage Beastie Boys with snarky new wave and Beatles-y psychedelia,” while the Detroit Free Press calls the group’s debut, Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum, “pop patchwork at its best.” A crew of serious composers, pianist/vocalist Andrew received the prestigious BMI/John Lennon Songwriting Scholarship as the band’s “Good Day” was featured on The OC. Discover Tally Hall here with “Spring and a Storm.”

Missouri-based quintet Ludo issued their self-titled debut in 2003 and hit the road. Packed venues across the Midwest and Texas led to heavy rotation on FUSE, including three appearances on the network’s Daily Download — a first for an independent band. Ludo’s follow-up, Broken Bride, broke EP molds, emerging as a cohesive rock opera that follows two lovers through time and tribulation. The band signed with Island Records in 2006 and is currently in the studio recording their major label debut. Sample Ludo’s brand of rock here with “Hum Along.”

The Nice Device take pride in their insistent evolution — growing pains are prettily exposed instead of swept under the rug. Delicate lead vocalist Alicia sets the buoyant tone, backed by happy guitar chords and the occasional foxy jolt of electronica. Pitchforkmedia.com proclaimed that the quintet’s Birth of a Lover EP "strikes a balance between charming sugar high and nuts 'n' bolts junkyard cacophony…a remarkably strong debut.” Soak up The Nice Device here with “Innocent.”

BMI’s “See It Hear First” podcast has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, millions of listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions. Past 'cast artists including singer/songwriter Brendan James, rockers somedaynew, Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela, Canadian crossover band Soul Kid #1 and country-pop combo the Zac Brown Band have all grabbed the industry's attention through the BMI podcast, with some landing major recording and publishing deals, and others on the verge of being signed.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of new talent, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000.

Tune in to bmi.com/podcast to hear all 18 editions of the BMI podcast, the first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory. The "See It Hear First" series is also available from iTunes at bmi.com/itunes, from Yahoo! at podcasts.yahoo.com, or though Pod2Mob.com.

BMI's "See It Hear First" podcast has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, millions of listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions. Past 'cast artists like singer/songwriter Brendan James, rockers somedaynew, Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela, Canadian crossover band Soul Kid #1 and country-pop combo the Zac Brown Band have all grabbed the industry's attention through the BMI podcast, with some landing major recording and publishing deals, and others on the verge of being signed.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of new talent like this edition's three rising Nashville stars, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000.

Tune in to bmi.com/podcast to hear all 16 editions of the BMI podcast, the first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory. The "See It Hear First" series is also available from iTunes, from Yahoo!, or though Pod2Mob.com.

Podcast #16 Featured artists

The Eli Young Band loves a good honky-tonk song. Mixing dance hall nostalgia with admiration for peppy rock and roll comes naturally to the Texas-based quartet, and they pull off their infectious country/pop rock hybrid with ease. Co-founders Mike Eli and James Young attended primo music institution the University of North Texas at Denton, where they met future bandmates Chris Thompson and Jon Jones. Graceful lyrics explore everyday scenarios with honesty that stems simply from living the songs they sing. Get hooked on Eli Young Band here on "So Close Now."

Virginia native Stephanie Chapman's distinct vocals turn heads from the get-go, ensnaring listeners with their ethereal delicacy. As a songwriter, her voice is developed and unique, visiting universal themes of heartbreak and loss, as well as dipping into homespun, lighter fare from her own happy childhood. Cuts with luminaries Bonnie Raitt and Trisha Yearwood illustrate Stephanie's country/rock versatility and maturity as a writer. Hear this skilled poet tell one of her stories on "Bulletproof."

Trent Summar smirks at expectations and the status quo, finding humor and poignancy in exploring the unexpected life lessons that hit everyday. Trent calls his music "farm rock," and with help from his band, the New Row Mob, he coolly personifies the moniker. From penning Jack Ingram's brassy single "Love You" to his own "Pink John Deere," the native Tennessean packs an inimitable punch with every syllable. Summar's live show emits an energy that is both contagious and raw. Learn more about Trent Summar here in BMI's exclusive interview with the singer/songwriter, and listen to his single "Horseshoes and Hand Grenades."

The "See It Hear First" podcast, available at bmi.com/podcast, has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, millions of listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of new talent like this month's four rising Latin stars, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000.

Past 'cast artists like singer/songwriter Brendan James, rockers somedaynew, Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela, Canadian crossover band Soul Kid #1 and country-pop combo the Zac Brown Band have all grabbed the industry's attention through the BMI podcast, with some landing major recording and publishing deals and others on the verge of being signed.

Tune in to bmi.com/podcast to hear all 15 editions of BMI's "See It Hear First" podcast series, the first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory. BMI's podcast is also available from iTunes at bmi.com/itunes, from Yahoo! at podcasts.yahoo.com, or though Pod2Mob.com.

Podcast #15 Featured Artists

Twenty-two-year-old Nashville native Alejandra Alberti contributes "Quiero" to this month's podcast, showcasing a fusion of pop, rock and r&b-influenced vocals that draw on all of her experiences of growing up in the U.S., while keeping strong ties to her Cuban/Mexican-mixed heritage.

Latin Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Elsten "Fulano" Torres is a contemporary bilingual artist recognized for his original musical style. The Cuban-born, New York-bred performer stands out with his eclectic pop-rock Latin songs and their sundry worldly grooves, Cuban-meets-British melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Hear it first on "La Noche Entera."

From a young boy who was never supposed to be able to speak, to a man with a golden voice, American Idol finalist Anthony Fedorov has truly beaten all the odds. Hailing from the Ukraine and singing in English, Italian and Spanish, the 21-year-old crooner overcame a childhood illness that left him mute to become a fan-favorite during Idol's fourth season. Find out why with "Culpame."

Traveling on a musical journey that fuses r&b, soul, salsa, rock, hip-hop and Latin rhythms together into sweet pop ballads is Taxi Amarillo (yellow cab). Made up of Latin pop singer Cruzmonty and writer/producer Chris Hierro, Taxi Amarillo's lyrics will move you, their voices will elevate you, and their style will blow you away. Enjoy the ride with "Plan B."]]> 2006-10-31T04:00:00-05:00 http://www.bmi.com/news/entry/334765 Artists, Captain, Greater Good, James, Brendan, Linkin Park, Makeshifte, Pauley, Mieka, Somedaynew, Hint, The, Wilson, Brian, Musical Styles, Rock BMI's SXSW Music Festival showcases held last month in Austin. "See It Hear First™" podcast #9 glides from genre to genre, featuring clever pop champions Captain, soulful singer/songwriter Mieka Pauley, the guitar-driven Makeshifte, vivacious hook architects Greater Good, and melodic indie rockers The Hint.

Like the SXSW conference itself, the "See It Hear First" podcast has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, one million listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions.

The industry is paying attention and we have the success stories to prove it: Singer/songwriter Brendan James, who was featured on the very first podcast, was signed to Capitol Records; rock band somedaynew, voted favorite new artist from podcast #1, is on the verge of signing a major label record deal; Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela has the attention of the world's largest video game publisher; the music of Soulkid #1, was featured on the soundtrack to The OC; and recent podcast artist Zac Brown is being courted by several major Nashville labels.

All editions of the BMI podcast are available at bmi.com/podcast, as well as from iTunes at bmi.com/itunes and Yahoo's podcast directory at podcasts.yahoo.com, or you can listen on the go with mobile podcasting services like Pod2Mob. The first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory, "See It Hear First" is currently rated five out of five stars at Yahoo! and has won the "5 Star Award" from PodSpider, one of the worldís largest podcast databases.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of vital new songwriters and artists, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000. Alternative rockers Glass Intrepid picked up the most votes on podcast #8 with their song, "Your Regrets."

PODCAST #9 FEATURED ARTISTS:

Captain
The U.K.'s Captain decidedly bucks pop expectations, trends and scenes, choosing instead to "forge their own." Captain cheekily explains that "if Brian Wilson, Karen Carpenter, Burt Bacharach, Billy Corgan and Kevin Shields all merged into one, you'd still only be halfway to the Captain sound" - a claim that would seem arrogant were it not supported by the bandís robust, intelligent pop. Hear it for yourself in "Broke."

Makeshifte
Makeshifte is not for the faint of heart. The 2005 Texas Buzz Award winners for the "Musicians' Choice" award cite Hoobastank, Linkin Park and Incubus as key influences of their heavy, guitar-driven tunes led by Mikey Beasley's feverish vocals. The haunting "Footsteps" reveals the groupís intense dedication to lending lyrical voice to the real world drama of their young peers.

Mieka Pauley
Boston songwriter Mieka Pauley appears destined to follow in large footsteps. The streets of Harvard Square have made enormous contributions to the songwriting community over the years, with Bonnie Raitt, Joan Baez and Tracy Chapman all cutting their teeth at the university hub and Cambridge clubs; add Mieka Pauley to that list. Lyrical wisdom and a soulful voice that betray her youth are illustrated on "Stronger."

Greater Good
Dallas' Greater Good inched closer to proposed world domination and released their first single to radio in the U.K. in August of last year. The band's bouncy, Brit-inspired sound is both nostalgic and fresh, effortlessly exuding youth and confidence. Hear Greater Goodís knack for tackling heavy subject matter and turning it into light-hearted, catchy hooks firsthand on "Demolition."

The Hint
D.C.-based rockers The Hint mesmerize audiences with dreamy lyrics, sweet harmonies and infectious hooks. Numerous EPís and demos of the band eagerly float through underground hands as the boys hone in on their sound and build on an increasingly loyal fan base. The young groupís newest material offers sugar-laced melodies capped off with a defiant rock punch, brazenly displayed in "Kiss Kiss."

All six bands are part of the "BMI Presents..." showcases set for March 15 at Maggie Mae's and March 16 at Opal's Divine during the 20th annual SXSW Music & Media Conference and Festival being held March 10-19.

Like the SXSW conference itself, the "See It Hear First" podcast has become an important tool for exposing new BMI songwriters and artists to key industry professionals and fans alike. Since its release in May 2005, one million listeners from around the world have tuned in to discover new music from a broad range of genres and regions. The industry is paying attention and we have the success stories to prove it: Singer/songwriter Brendan James, who was featured on the very first podcast, was signed to Capitol Records; rock band somedaynew, voted favorite new artist from podcast #1, is on the verge of signing a major label record deal; Latin hip-hop artist Cosculluela has the attention of the world's largest video game publisher; the music of Soulkid #1 was featured on the soundtrack to "The OC"; and recent podcast artist Zac Brown is being courted by several major Nashville labels.

All editions of the BMI podcast are available at bmi.com/podcast, as well as from iTunes at bmi.com/itunes and Yahoo's podcast directory at podcasts.yahoo.com or you can listen on the go with mobile podcasting services like Pod2Mob. The first in the music industry to be listed in Apple's podcast directory, "See It Hear First" is currently rated five out of five stars at Yahoo! and has won the "5 Star Award" from PodSpider, one of the world's largest podcast databases.

In addition to hearing great music from an array of vital new songwriters and artists, podcast listeners can also vote for their favorite artist to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician. Winners get 1,000 discs, a prize with a promotional value of more than $10,000.

Sons of William, made up of brothers and Louisiana natives Joe and David Stark, along with New Orleans bassist Annie Clements, combines a thirst for progression with respect for their predecessors. Named after the brothers' mentor and father Bill Stark, the trio is what everyone aches to discover-unpretentious and undeniable rock and roll. See for yourself on "Lucifer Hands."

Three-time Latin Grammy nominee JD Natasha brings her Spanish-language hit "Lagrimas" to the podcast line-up. Her debut album Imperfecta/Imperfect has earned the 18-year-old Latina rocker from Miami extensive critical praise and a large following of bilingual Hispanics in the U.S. who have finally found a homegrown artist to call their own.

Alternative rock band Glass Intrepid has gained a considerable following having played at major venues throughout their home state of Texas and sharing the stage with such big names as 3 Doors Down, Snow Patrol and Mudvayne. The Houston-based quartet is currently receiving continuous airplay on multiple radio stations nationwide. Check out "Your Regrets."

Singer/guitarist Newton Faulkner writes poignant lyrics that flow seamlessly over funky back beats, refusing genre classification. With a voice that glides from silky crooning and crisp raps to everything in between, the UK's newest guitar hero masters the fret board with both hands, creating an inimitable sound all his own. Take a listen to "I Need Something" to witness firsthand why guitar legend Jimmy Page calls Faulkner "a star of tomorrow."

White Stripes/Janis Joplin hybrid Nico Vega is one of the most talked about groups in their hometown of Los Angeles. Singer Aja Volkman's fervent vocal leadership conveys both tenderness and dominance, while guitarist Rich Koehler's rifts mirror the grit in Volkman's pipes and Mikey Pena steadily propels the group forward on drums. Hear what all the fuss is about with "Hollywood Sign."

If early 70s glam and late 70s post-punk had a love child in 2006, We Are The Fury would be it. With influences ranging from Bowie and T-Rex to Talking Heads and Television, WaTF reveals a truly unique sound and style, setting them apart in today's musical landscape. The Toledo, Ohio-bred quintet contributes "Better Off This Way" to podcast #8.]]> 2006-03-13T17:00:00-05:00 http://www.bmi.com/news/entry/334619 Artists, James, Brendan, Pauley, Mieka, Schiavo, Adriano Woodstock Film Festival, held recently in the Catskills in Upstate New York.

Moderated by BMI's Doreen Ringer Ross, who has been instrumental in creating a platform at film festivals for the independent film and creative music communities to interact in a positive and insightful forum, the panel provided a frank discussion about music in film and the ins and outs of film scoring, music supervision and licensing.

"Music for Film" panelists Duncan Sheik, Nic Harcourt and Kevin Bacon, BMI's Doreen Ringer Ross, and panelist Michael Bacon

Panelists included Nic Harcourt (music director and host of KCRW-FM's "Morning Becomes Eclectic"/music supervisor: The Dukes of Hazzard), Michael Bacon (composer: Loverboy, Losing Chase, Brother in Arms), Kevin Bacon (director: Loverboy, Losing Chase/actor: The Woodsman, Mystic River, Apollo 13), and Duncan Sheik (composer: Through the Fire, A Home at the End of the World/Atlantic Records artist: Humming, Daylight).

Guitar virtuoso and film composer David Torn, composer and Blondie co-founding guitarist Chris Stein, BMI's Doreen Ringer Ross, original Woodstock Festival creator Michael Lang, composer and Lovin' Spoonful founder John Sebastian, (kneeling) Woodstock Film Festival Director Meira Blaustein and songwriter Duncan Sheik

Sheik also headlined the BMI-sponsored "See It Hear First" music showcase that featured acoustic sets by singer/songwriters Brendan James, Jeremy Gregory, Adriano Schiavo and Mieka Pauley. BMI also sponsored an industry dinner during the five-day event.

Every Fall, film and music lovers from around the world gather at the Woodstock Film Festival for an exhilarating variety of films, first class concerts, celebrity-led panels, workshops, a closing-night awards ceremony and superlative parties. Participants and visitors find themselves in a friendly, casual setting conducive to creativity, exciting opportunities and a good time. In just a few years, the Festival has established itself as one of the best independent film events in the country.

Composers Anton Sanko and Bradford Reed, BMI's Ringer Ross, and Apple Records' Jonathan Clyde

BMI sponsors many music panels at film festivals and markets throughout the U.S. each year. These panels are designed to promote greater understanding within the filmmaking community about the aesthetic and business aspects of music in film as well as provide an opportunity for composers, songwriters and filmmakers to learn more about each other's role. Since 2000, BMI's music presence at the Woodstock Film Festival has consistently helped to forge new filmmaker-music industry relationships, which have proven to be mutually beneficial.

BMI's Linda Livingston, original Woodstock Festival creator Michael Lang, BMI's Doreen Ringer Ross, animator Bill Plympton and original Woodstock Festival staffer Lee Blumer

Photos by Ben Caswell

Terra Naomi	The Plebz

All of the featured songwriter/artists are currently working out of Southern California, including Missoula, Montana-born rocker Terra Naomi, who climbs to new heights with her podcast performance of "Up Here." LA natives The Plebz merge punk, funk and rock to shake the rafters with "Lights, Camera, Action." Formerly part of the East Coast punk scene, The Ettes generate high energy with "Gimmie." Melding decades of America rock and pop with the melodic spice of India, Goldspot cooks on "Friday."

The Ettes	Goldspot

The new podcast also includes an interview with songwriter Brendan James, who recently signed a recording contract with Capitol Records. James was a featured performer on the first BMI podcast, released last May.

The latest edition of BMI's podcast series, entitled "See It Hear First(tm)," can be downloaded on iTunes as part of Apple's free Podcast Directory.

Podcast listeners can vote for their favorite artists to help them win a CD duplication package from Disc Makers, the leading CD manufacturer for the independent musician that offers special packages exclusively for BMI writers.

Photos by David Bills and Michael Boeser