TALK TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JD 85 Comments 0 likes

There’s nothing much to write home about among the other new releases, which include J/RMG’s Mario,Warner Bros.’ Flaming Lips and Reprise’s Dead by Sunrise, all in the 20-25k range. Next up is a pair of unlikely matched holiday albums in Jive/JLG’s David Archuleta (18-21k) and Bob Dylan (15-18k), with Columbia’s Five for Fighting also on tap (12-15k).

via (HITSMAGAZINE)

THIS IS A CONTINUATION TALK TO ME OF MY LAST POST ABOUT THE MUSIC INDUSTRY AND HOW THEY BETTER GET ON THIS SOCIAL NETWORKING TRACK FAST OR THIS IS GONNA BE THE END RESULTS EVERY TIME. I HATE TO SEE THIS HAPPEN TO MARIO, NOT ONLY IS HE A FRIEND BUT HE ALSO HAS ONE OF THE HOTEST R&B RECORDS OF THE YEAR. I HATE THE FIRST WEEK NUMBERS GAME PROBABLY MORE THAN ANYBODY. I BELIEVE THAT’S WHAT KILLED THE BUILDING, THE DEVELOPMENT AND THE GROWING OF AN ARTIST THAT WE USE TO SEE.

TODAYS QUESTIONS ARE DIRECTED TO THE LIFERS THAT BELIEVE THEY WANNA BE IN THIS CRAZY ASS BUSINESS.

QUESTION NUMBER 1. IF YOU WERE MANAGING MARIO WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

QUESTION NUMBER 2.WHAT SHOULD THE RECORD COMPANY DO TO SALVAGE THIS PROJECT ?

TALK TO ME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  1. Mario’s management needs 2 to get him on every daytime & late night talk show they have access to. I think with how consumers operate today, things have to stay in their faces & be constantly shoved down their throats for them to stay interested. It’s sad, but true. Therefore, work that isn’t necessarily of the highest standard is sometimes recognized b/c that artist’s management is keeping thier name, face and music OUT THERE and present among the public. Beyonce for example, no shade. Lol, but yes… I think his management just needs to take action and really do their best to promote Mario and his work to the tenth power.

  2. Welp that aint me.

  3. Its a very tough position now that the album is out & they could have & should have done a way better job @ marketin & promotion before the album actually dropped… If the album is as good as you say it is, if he stays on the road like Keri Hilson has he will steady sell records..

    This is the same thing I’ve been telling the R.KELLY camp about MAXIMISING the social networks but they seem to be stuck in the old Media hense poor tour ticket sales..Singles unable to crack the top 50 & just plain GARBAGE marketin ideas..

    Hit me @Tongadude on twitter

  4. I feel so bad even saying this cos’ along with first weeks sales this is one of the big things I hate about the industry these days (or is it the consumers?) but I would pull a big PR stunt… couple dates with Rihanna should do it.

    As for the Record company they just need to stick with it and keep pushing!

  5. @kandi is funny lol

  6. 1. I would book shows 4 him like ya’ll did usher in the early days (400 per year) but while i’m doing that i would be looking for new deals and get him in a company that understands his demographic and the fans he sales to.

    2. I would @ this point go into some really deep recovery advertisement and push him really hard into radio and internet presents(which he has had none of).

  7. #1: If i would be Marios Manager, i would try to get him as much Gigs as possible because he wont see any money off of the records sales… he will end up selling 50-60k if hes lucky… and these numbers will be production costs etc.

    #2: seriously… the project for me as a record label is already dead. any more marketing money u put in it now is wasted money. they should promote him weeks before the actual release flood those social networks, give him radio time, tv time, get street teams on the social networks for flyers etc.

    my question for jd as a label boss himself… why do labels sign somebody but then give him no support to promote the album/single in general ? just release the guy then….

  8. 1. I would have managed it differently from the start, they released the project after one single because it reached 14 on billboard which is good but not amazing. They should have released a second single before the release of the album (and it shouldnt be thinkin about you) maybe starlight or get out if they could of kept luda on it

    which is another point, the label should of got ludacris cleared or paid (or whatever the issue was) and kept him on get out

    as much as you dont want an album full of features, you want something to attract different types of fans and a ludacris verse would of attracted hiphop fans, southern fans and others to atleast listened to that one track!

    2. they need to release another single and video – and not a low budget internet video – its gotta be a label backed video and hope that his tour with trey and day26 will stimulate enough sales so that the album reaches atleast 150,000 to 200,000 which should then warrent another album which should be handled much better!

  9. OOOH and get this man (mario) some endorsements he could sell a yukon ah camara or some deodorant dang!!!!!

  10. 1. If I was managing Mario, I would first try my best to utilize social networks. Because Mario started off at a very young age, the majority of his fans are still there b/c they grew up w/ him. However, what has affected Mario is that consumers love to feel as if they artist that they are listening to is easy to relate to, hence, Twitter, Facebook, and other forms of social networking becoming a very essential element in the marketing of a record. Honestly I think that’s why Trey Songs is doing as well as he is

    2. The record label should definitely be penetrating the market with his project. Seeing as how the product just came out, the project is still very early in its life cycle which means that they can salvage the project based on the marketing plan that they put in place from this moment. As a record label its essential to get Mario’s fans back, the same fans that he had from the Just A Friend and Braid My Hair Days. They have to re-establish Mario as the rising icon and r&b sensation that he is…

  11. I would hit the internet real heavy mainly because it will spread quicker than any gig will. I would push the album really heavy on social networks (MySpace, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, etc.). Leak a bonus song or track that didn’t make the album to bloggers. Special internet promos or contest…like picking local untapped talent for each tour date in each town.

  12. JD now days people get more attention when they write for other people, have at least 3 hits songs that were aired all summer or etc by different artists/genres. These artists need to stop following all the trends they need that swag back like Ye’ even if you in the industry you still gotta act as if someone is holding you back or not trying give you your shine, you got to speak boldly and let it be known to the outter industry world that you wrote or made the tracks/beats like dream and kanye did with their beats and lyrics and then come out with your own album, social networking is not the key, neither is knowing someone in the industry, you have to make a video for each song on the album, get your whole album played on the radio like jay-z, perform at out of the box venues, stop acting like you already made it and doing the bare minimum, some people are just satisfied with the one hit single, fame, and the fact that they are already in the in crowd as far as tv time and special vip events go. no hunger, no creativity just followers of trends…..www.cockypersona.com

  13. Mario needs to find himself and stick to one sound. He is trying to be Chris Brown or somebody. A successful single isn’t everything, he can’t even perform that song by himself. My favorite Mario songs were the mid tempo sexual joints – Kryptonite, Lay in my bed, Crying out for me, etc. This album doesn’t have songs like that so I felt no need to run and purchase it. The problem with Mario and other artists is that they don’t know how to tow the line between making R&B and having cross over appeal. He tried a new sound and failed.

  14. MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN JD U FORGOT TO METION USHERS BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!
    HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY USH!!!

  15. I also agree about endorsement deals get your name on products or etc be seen everywhere like diddy/50, you have to be everywhere now to make people see your serious and passionate about being heard. In my Tyrone voice mixtapes/youtube (just aint it), you need more exposure now days. Be relevant everywhere, i bet lil mama got an endoresement deal for doing what she did, now everytime i here the ny stae of mind song i think of lil mama and strike a pose like she did at the end, its so many people thats hungry that will do anything to have their name in the air, everybody need to become a lil mama and just be everyone.

  16. well i dnt wanna b in the industry but like i said on tha last post his promo team shld went hard…management shlda went tht extra step..thts tht they should been out there doin promo while he on this bet tour

  17. be everywhere i mean

  18. I am not nor do I ever see myself being in the music biz. But the fact that i love music, it hurts my heart to see good artist talent wasted. i mean the labels put the time effort and money behind a project and some how they forget to promote it. The first thing I is get at them A&Rs Managing and Promoting teams seems like they are just keeping jobs and for what, if they cant do their jobs and especiallyin times like these I’m sure ther are people out there who would be more than willing to fill it for them. 2nd of all if I were Mario (or anybody else) I would do what some people have already said and that is: get out there on that road and do them shows. Just bescause everyone else is lazy does me you have to fall into that complasent catagory as well. 3rd, man/woman up take your career in your own hands if you have to. Pocket some of that money that you are paying them slacker to do but they aint. Get on that internet, Push them exclusives out to the Dj’s hell do your own maixtape. Hell look at 00711 and that Swagger like Songz series. Neyo done did two full length joints with all new shit (he gave away two albums). Drizzy as mush as some love to hate him, but look at what he doing (And he ghost writing on DETOX). But yeah, I was dissapointed to hear about Mario, and what happened to him. This will prove to be a learning experience for him and a what not to do’s for up and comers in the game. I wish much Success to Mario and hopes that more good than bad comes out from this situation. Live From Iraq. Gone!

    BIGKnuks
    3XP

  19. I would have definately had his ass on u stream doin a workout for the ladies or something! I would of had him twittering and doin things like surprise I’m in your city I’ll be at such and such store for an hour or something! The main thing is you have to connect with the people! If you look at the way Jay Z did it he just went on every talk show but a guy like mario doesn’t have that type of pull! He has got to start acting like he doesnt have a deal, like a starving artist! As an artist that doesnt have extreme hype or buzz around you you absolutely have to use these internet tools! Mainly twitter and u stream nowadays! Another thing is a promo tour with gucci would have been big! I didnt follow his campaign so I dont know what he did or didnt do!

  20. I was an intern for Def Jam & Atlantic Records and I decided that the music biz wasn’t for me so I stuck to dj’ing. That single is hot and he should’ve rode that wave with another single. If I was his manager I would first set a promotion budget and develop creative ideas to promote the upcoming album. Mixtapes, shows, short commercials, radio station times can be a good start and I would push it at least a month before and a month after the album release. I think the failure with artists is that they rely too much on the label to promote them when in actually its no longer there. Artists have to promote themselves and develop a strong promotion team to back them.

  21. QUESTION NUMBER 1. IF YOU WERE MANAGING MARIO WHAT WOULD YOU DO? I Would get him on every day time show and late night show cause kids can’t always see the day time stuff. i’d make sure he got entertainment tonight, access, extra you name he’d be on it to get the word out then i would get ads of his album on all the gossip sites so people see that his album is coming out when they go to these websites twitter like crazy screw facebook thats dead same with myspace but myspace could be still use full if you’re an established artist with fans so but the single up and the release date.

    QUESTION NUMBER 2.WHAT SHOULD THE RECORD COMPANY DO TO SALVAGE THIS PROJECT ? well its October i would look at some of the songs we didn’t put on the album look in to the songs we are gonna remix and do a re-release a week before christmas, but the moments leading up to that event we must release a new single to get the audience interested again so we have a promo tour 15 cites 4 countries canada ,the states, japan, and UK, play one all four songs ask the crowd which one was their fav and thats the new single just like that give the people what they want. i love music and it breaks my heart when people put out the wrong singles i swear cause that doesn’t make the album bad it just make the sales target look bleak. anyways thats what i’d do before christmas is perfect last minute gift ideas and people aren’t broke yet….lol

    TALK TO ME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  22. To be honest I think its a failure on both parties.You can’t fault the label totally and you can’t Mario totally. I have a dogtag that says “I control my own destiny” Even though the label does their part or tries to do their part what did Mario do to help the situation. If I get signed to a major I would be hustling more than anyone in my camp that is suppose to be getting me out therel. I know he knows some connects.I would have been setting things up on my own forget waiting on someone else. I have this line in one of my new songs “I wait on no man I create my own opportunities” Don’t let no one else steer your career you drive that bad boy. And I don’t know if he was or wasn’t doing this but record sales show that someone wasn’t doing their job.

  23. 1. If I were Mario’s manager, I’d whip his ass into social-shape. I’d have him sit, and acquaint himself with each social networking platform necessary to please his fans (youtube, ustream, twitter, facebook, blogs, forums, myspace, etc).

    2. The record company CAN’T “salvage” the project. What’s done, is done.. You can no longer afford to “by-pass” social networking as a valid marketing tool and expect to sell. IT’S A DIRECT LINE TO YOUR CONSUMER! However, it takes lots of time to build that loyalty between you (the artist) and your fan base. You have to keep them engaged with continuous content, and for long enough so it becomes a habit to that consumer to keep up with you. Find the balance, and make it work. There’s no “quick fix”.

    If Mario is stuck into old school tradition (radio, and shows) as the backbone of his album… he’s done for. NEXT! Notice how the artists who are at the top are at the top of their social networking game? It’s a correlation that has to stop being ignored. Jump on it, or be broke. That is the choice you have.

  24. 1. HMM, THIS IS A TERRIFIC QUESTION JD BUT IF I WAS MANAGING MARIO I WOULD BOOK HIM PROMO SHOWS (OF COURSE)/15 CITY TOUR, TALK SHOW INTERVIEWS, COLLABORATIONS WITH OTHER ARTISTS’ PROJECT, AND DO LIKE AN EP THE ALBUM BEFORE THE ALBUM.

    2. IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THE RECORD COMPANY PROMOTED THE PROJECT AT THE LAST MINUTE BECAUSE I CAN COUNT ON ONE HAND ALL THE TIMES BET, MTV, FUSE, AND ETC. SHOWED COMMERCIALS FOR THE ALBUM. WHAT THEY COULD’VE DONE WAS PROMOTE THE ALBUM WEEKS BEFORE OCTOBER 12TH IN MY OPINION. I THINK THE ALBUM WILL DO WELL IN OTHER COUNTRIES THOUGH AND MATTER OF FACT MOST PEOPLE MIGHT’VE DOWNLOADED IT FROM iTUNES OR RHAPSODY.

  25. 1. From a manager’s standpoint, I honestly would look at getting released from his current contract and go independent. At this point its all about keeping the buzz he has going. 1st thing I would do is start a blog similar to this one. Its all about interaction with your fans. If you are not interacting with your fans you are losing big time. On that blog, Id release a FREE DIGITAL MIXTAPE/EP where a fan would have to enter their email address to DL it for FREE. Here you have direct contact with your audience which opens up many other doors. Also get him more features. As you said he arguably had the biggest R & B record of the year! I’d get him on any & everybody’s record from major artist to independent. Get him a opening act on a bigger named artists’ tour or corporate sponsored tours. It really cant be about money at this point. Its about the BRAND!

    2. From a label standpoint, its really hard because its all about timing and building momentum for an album and the momentum is gone for this record I believe. I think it all depends on the strength of the rest of the records on the album. If there is no strong follow up record/single, there really is no hope. IF there is, obviously shoot a low budget but effective video and do a major viral campaign meaning ads on any & every website that draws the crowd of his target audience.

  26. LISTEN J.D. THE ONLY PEOPLE THAT SUPPORTING THE ALBUM NOW DAYS ARE THE FANS, THEIR TRUE FANS, THEIR BIGGEST FANS THAT BEEN SUPPORTIVE SINCE THE BEGINING OF THEIR CAREER.

    LET ME BRING UP CIARA FOR EXAMPLE. HER 2004 “GOODIES” ALBUM SOLD OVER 3 MILLION COPIES IN THE U.S. AND OVER 5 MILLION WORLD WIDE. THAT’S A BIG ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR SOMEONE WHO CAMED OUT AS A NEW ARTIST. WHEN SHE CAME OUT, I WAS A FAN SOMEWHAT, I LIKE THAT SHE’S AN INCREDIBLE DANCER. I LIKE THAT SHE CALLED HERSELF THE QUEEN OF CRUNK & B, SO THAT MADE ME SEE HER AS A VISIONAIR. I LIKED HER SOUND.
    I LIKE PEOPLE WHO ARE CREATIVE. PLUS SHE’S SEXY, AND THAT’S WHY I SUPPORT HER IN THE BEGINNING OF HER CAREER. I AIN’T THE ONLY ONE THAT THINKS CIARA HAS POTENTIAL. SHE DOES HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL ARTIST.

    AS HER FEBRUARY 2009, HER 2006 ALBUM “CIARA: THE EVOLUTION” HAS SOLD 1.3 MILLION COPIES IN THE U.S. AND AS OF JULY 2008, THE ALBUM HAS SOLD MORE THAN 3 MILLION COPIES WORLD WIDE. THAT’S GREAT, BUT WHY SHE SOLD LESSER THAN HER PREVIOUS ALBUM “GOODIES”? WELL HERES WHY. BACK WHEN GOODIES WAS THE MOST TALK ABOUT ALBUM IN MY SCHOOL, THERE WERE RUMORS ABOUT CIARA HAVING A PENIS, PEOPLE THINK SHE’S TRANS GENDER AND SHIT. I WAS LIKE WTF? A LOT OF PEOPLE BELIEVE THAT CIARA IS A MAN. LOL!
    BUT THAT’S NOT ALL, EVERYONE KNOW’S THAT CIARA AIN’T A GIFTED SINGER ONCE HER DOCUMENTRY ON MTV AIRED BACK IN 2005. SHE IMMITED THAT SHE NEVER SANG BEFORE GROWING UP UNTIL SHE GOT INSPIRED BY DESTINY’S CHILD BACK IN 2001, WHICH MADE HER WANT TO BE IN A GIRL GROUP. ONCE SHE SPLIT FROM HER GROUP, SHE GOT DISCOVERED BY JAZZE PHA, ALL BECAUSE OF HER DANCING, NOT HER SINGING ABILITIES. SHE HAD TO TAKE SINGING LESSONS AND ALL THAT BECAUSE SHE WAS HAVING TROUBLE RECORDING RECORDS AND SINGING LIVE.
    SHE LOST HALF OF HER FANS FOR THOSE REASONS. PLUS, DURING THAT TIME MUSIC WAS SUCKING, PEOPLE DIDN’T CARE TO SUPPORT PEOPLE ALBUMS EITHER. THEY RATHER DOWLOAD IT FROM FILE SHARING SOFTWARES.

    HER 2009 “FANTASY RIDE” DID HORRIBLE THIS YEAR. THE FOLLOWING WEEK, THE ALBUM REMAINED IN THE TOP 10 SELLING 26,000 COPIES IN IT’S FIRST WEEK. THAT’S THE LOWEST WEEK SELLS OF HERS. AS OF OCTOBER 2009, THE ALBUM HAS SOLD OVER 200,000 COPIES IN THE U.S. THE ALBUM SO FAR HAS SOLD 301,000 SOMETHING COPIES WORLDWIDE. EVEN THOUGH THE SELLS ISN’T A BIG SURPRISE, HER ALBUM STILL MIGHT SELL, BUT VERY SLOWLY. MAYBE BY 2010, THE ALBUM WOULD GO PLATINUM. BUT I DOUBT THAT.
    I FEEL THAT CIARA ISN’T REVOLVING. I THINK SHE ISN’T STAYING TRUE TO HER OWN SOUND. IF SHE’S CRUNK & B, SHE NEEDS TO STICK WITH THAT SOUND. I FEEL SHE WENT POP THIS YEAR. I FEEL SHE’S TRYING TO BE MORE LIKE JANET JACKSON OR LIKE PRINCE, AND LESS LIKE HERSELF.
    IN THE CREATIVE SIDE, IT LACKS ORIGINALITY. AMMM, TO FUTURISTIC WHEN IT COMES TO THE WHOLE ALBUM CONCEPT. I DON’T LIKE THE ALBUM TITLE CALLED “FANSY RIDE.” I THINK SHE GONE TOO FAR WITH THE WHOLE SEX IMAGE BULL SHIT. I HATED HER FIRST MUSIC VIDEO CALLED, “INDEPENDENT WOMEN” SOME SHIT LIKE THAT. I’M SURPRISE IT’S NOT ON THE ALBUM TRACK LIST. YEAH THAT VIDEO KINDA CREEPY, PLUS THE SONG IS BAD QUALITY. I CAN’T STAND PEOPLE TRYING TO BE LIKE MICHAEL AND JANET. JUST BE YOURSELF WHEN IT COMES TO MAKING MUSIC, GOD DAMN. LOL!

    YEAH I WOULDN’T SUPPORT HER LAST ALBUM.

    THAT’S MY WHOLE PERSPECTIVE OF HER.
    FROM WHAT I’M SEEING ON YOUTUBE, A LOT OF PEOPLE HATING ON HER NOW.

    WITH TODAY’S ALBUM SELLS, IT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF. I ALREADY KNOW MARIO’S ALBUM CAME OUT, I SEEN THE ADVERTISEMENT ON TV ABOUT HIS ALBUM COMING OUT AND ALL THAT SHIT. I FEEL LIKE MARIO HAS GONE HIP HOP NOW SINCE HIS RECENT ALBUM DIDN’T DO AS WELL AS IT SHOULD. I THINK IT HAS A LOT TO DO WITH RADIO PLAY, BECAUSE NOW DAYS, MAINSTREAM MUSIC IS EVERYWHERE, AND THE REAL MUSIC AIN’T GETTING ANY SHINE, BUT IT’S SELLING MORE THAN MAINSTREAM MUSIC ANYWAYS. I KNOW BECAUSE I LIKE TO KEEP UPDATES ON ALBUM SELLS AND HOW HIGH THE ALBUM CHARTED IN THE BILL BOARD CHARTS. IF THE SONG DOES’T REACH NUMBER 1 OR ON THE TOP 10 IN THE BILLBOARD CHARTS, IT WON’T GET ANY EXPOSER BECAUSE PEOPLE RATHER PLAY A TRACK ON THE RADIO THAT THEY FEEL COULD GET LISTENERS TO LISTEN TO THEIR RADIO STATION.

    1. AS A MANAGER TO MARIO, I WILL MAKE SHORE THAT HE MAKES THE RIGHT KIND OF MUSIC. I WILL TELL HIM TO TAKE CONTROL OVER OF HIS DISTINY AND NOT TO LET OTHERS DETECT YOUR FUTURE. I WILL HIRER OLD SKOOL PRODUCERS LIKE TEDDY RILEY, TIMBERLAND, ANYBODY THAT I FEEL HAS HAD A BIG IMPACK IN THE 90’S. I WILL GET BETTER SONG WRITTERS THAT HAVE A LOT OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT TODAY’S SOCIETY. I WILL HELP PROMOTE HIS ALBUM THE BEST WAY I CAN. HE WILL SUCCEED BECAUSE OF ME. WHO EVER IS MANAGING HIM SUCKS ASS.

    2. I WILL TAKE CONTROL, IF I DON’T AGREE TO THEIR BULL SHIT, THAN I’LL SAY, “NA, MARIO IS A STAR ALREADY, ALL HE NEEDS IS TO STAY TRUE TO HIMSELF. THE MUSIC INDUSTRY DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT THE FANS WANT. THEY THINK SEX SELLS. YEAH IT SELLS IF YOU HAVE A BORN TO BE FREAK SIDE TO YOU AND SHIT, IF YOU DON’T HAVE THE SWAGGA THAT COMES WITH IT, THAN FORGET ABOUT IT.
    THE BEST WAY HIS ALBUM WILL SELL IS IF HE MAKES A PERSONAL ALBUM. HE HAS GONE THROUGH A LOT OF SHIT IN HIS LIFE THAT HE NEVER EVEN PUT INTO A SONG. HE HAS A DRUG ADDICT MOTHER FOR GOD SACKS! HE NEEDS TO EXPRESS HIS FEELINGS ABOUT THAT INTO A SONG. A PERSONAL SONG LIKE THAT WOULD HELP A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE A DRUG ADDICT MOTHER; AND FOR PEOPLE TO HAVE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING ABOUT IT TOO. R&B IS SUPPOSE TO BE ABOUT THE BLUES. I WANT TO SEE MARIO BREAK DOWN AND CRY TO HIS MUSIC VIDEOS AND LIVE SHOWS. THAT SHIT WILL MAKE ME LOVE HIM MORE AS AN ARTIST. GIRLS WILL FALL FOR HIM EVEN MORE.
    I DON’T WANT MARIO TO BE MAKING SONGS LIKE TO TODAY TO STAY RELEVANT. HE NEEDS TO SHOW MORE PASSION WITH HIS MUSIC, AND SHOW THAT HE CAN TAKE RISK TO STAND OUT.
    THE MUSIC INDUSTRY IS VERY FUCKED UP RIGHT NOW WHEN IT COMES TO THIS. THEY JUST ALL ABOUT THE MONEY MAN!

  27. To be known or stay relevant, become a lil mama and just be everywhere, crash events, perform for free, give autographs, endorse other people, gain endorsements, throw parties every month, etc be everywhere, if u want the fame, sales and praise in the entertainment world

  28. Attention!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!! Attention!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!! Attention!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!! Attention!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!!! Attention!!!

    Perfect Example On What Needs To Happen Is. If I Will Admit. Mario Is Good, But Poor Management Is A Killer. What Need To Happen Is He’s Needs To Do Is. Interact With The Social Networks!!!!! For Example, Justin.Tv, Ustream, Skype Ect. Then He’s Got The Public Eye. Then Hit Them With This. Free Download Of A Mixtape Album Style. Original Beats. On Top Of That Then Hit Them With Another Mixtape. Then The Album. Perfect Example Who Did This!!!!!! Trey Songz!!! I Fuck Wit Bruh Da Long Way!!!! J.D. Fuck Wit Me Mayne!! 1 More Thing Why Is It That!!! Us In ATL Never Get Any Of Them Damn Fashion Shit!!!!!?????? Why Do People From Atlanta such as you! Bring Shit Out Then Release That Shit. In L.A. Or New York???? WTF Man!!!!

  29. @Nakita Benjamin
    Damn you went it and made valid point I didn’t read what you would do with Mario Career I was more reading the Ciara thing which I agree with you on lol.

    JD I want to answer this the right way but I don’t feel like wasting my time on this subject I mean Trey Songz didn’t even go gold yet so I can’t just comment on Mario their alot of Rnb cats that didn’t sell that good besides Whitney Houston and thats about it.

  30. Well JD. I guess I was among the few that knew about the new Mario project, and I saw both him and Trey in concert Monday in Charlotte. Maybe they should increase his presence in the game by any and all means. Mario is one of the best young singers we have out and one of the most consistent when it comes to good music, that the label should be all over with the promotion game, get him some guest hosting gigs, He performs well, use that and get him more exposure, down here in SC that Break Up is one of the most played songs on the radio, and the concert was definitely packed with people that knew all the words to every song he sung that night. If nothing else the record company needs to throw the machine behind him, and flood the spot with him via tv, the web, cell phones, everything. If nothing else get back on the street grind with the promotions and appearances.

  31. @Tellingthetruth101 I KNOW, I USE TO BE A FAN OF HER, AND EVERYONE TOO, BUT MAN, I HAD GOOD AND BAD MEMEORIES ABOUT CIARA WHEN SHE FIRST CAME OUT. NO ONE DON’T EVEN CARE FOR HER NOMORE LIKE THEY USE TO. SHE’S WACK NOW.

  32. GET THAT BOY ON MYSPACE,FACEBOOK,TWITTER, USTREAM, BLOGTV, THISIS50, EVERYTHING! the internet has such a presence now they need to stop the old school way of promotion…Build a new fan base of loyal fans and what little music i’ve heard from mario most of his stuff is so radio friendly he needs to branch out….TAKE RISKS Trey working with drake was risky but look how its paid off successful was huge this spring/summer BRANCH OUT!…Fab and The Dream or Ne-Yo COME ON MAN! labels and management is just living in the past.

  33. Promotion. Why isn’t he all over the place doing interviews, promo shows, in-store signings, etc? He should definirely have a strong presence on the web and perform at colleges , clubs and stuff like that. I don’t want to be in the business, I’m just saying…I actually like Mario and this is a shame. Gonna download his album tonight.

  34. A reality show may salvage it too but that may take awhile…and its gotta be good.

  35. Love Mario and it hurts to see him fall victim to the bullshit. Got chance to work his first record years ago. Shout out to Unruly out of BMore. Anyway, that they should have done is go hard with the 1st single when it picked up on radio. Pushed it to be played on various TV Shows, let it be used on shows like Dance Crew and So You Think You Can Dance. Then I would have tried to get him a performance guest spot on shows like 90210, Gossip Girl or something like that. Work radio and go old school take it straight to the people via street teams, club and also internet.
    Problem with “urban” department is that they can’t think past BET and 106. Fuck the bullshit, get creative, stop being lazy and work the damn record. Use the DJ, pimp out on facebook, sponsor contest. Or, he can plan his life around his album release dates to create drama and buzz. JD I know he is your boy but Usher has MASTERED that shit.

    This project isn’t dead. I love to use the Robin Thicke example. His second album “Evolution of Robin Thicke” didn’t pop until the 3rd single and his apperence on Oprah. They work the buzz on him and pushed it through to platinum status. Mario is a good looking dude w/ talent. Not a hard dude to work. Just WORK IT. the can so turn this around if they want to.

  36. u know what please dont write that much again. lol

    mario and his manager need to advertise better. hit the morning afternoon and night
    talk shows. spam the hell outta myspace or something that has big social network.
    raise some money, do promo tours, big charity events, or better yet just get in the
    suv and drive lol. do gigs at different night clubs and whatnot.

    now no matter what albums sells are gonna be low due to internet download, and
    leaks, but he gotta keep his head up. everything will be good.

  37. First I want to say that all Mario’s albums outside of MARIO & TURNING POINT has had some bad publicity.
    1. I would have been encouraging him to jump on as many mixtapes, hooks & duets as possible so that his name would have been floating while he was preparing his album. Keep your name & your stamp relevant…cause all summer long I heard about Trey Songz & Drake…where was he? Next I would have fully come together on his look…1st he’s bald then, he’s faded out…which one Mario?
    I would released his song & video earlier this year (like they did) like spring break… he could have put out another song around the time the album dropped. HOW IS IT…that he was #1 on the 106 & Park countdown for most of the summer (Which Trey Songz was not) yet no one knew of his album? Advertise, connect with your fans better, hit up some shows & magazine. I would get his WEB GAME proper.

    2. To salvage this project he needs to go out & make himself seen. Go on his own promo tour. Hit up some shows, be all over the web like he got 8 legs! He needs to get on his grind…

    I hate to see real talent not get the respect they deserve…
    But he can turn things around…
    Look @ Trey Songz!

  38. wow first let me say I feel , Mario’s people dropped the ball majorly on this project, I have the privelage of being a stay at home mom right now and I catch a lot of talk shows and late night talk shows, I did not see Mario on anything but 106 and park promoting this album and I really don’t watch 106 anymore because it’s for a younger audience but , I happened to flip through and catch him on that. What happened to promoting, the View, Jay Leno, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and now even Monique and Wendy Williams, do you mean to tell me he could not get booked on at least one of those shows to promote the album, Chris Rock was on every last one of them promoting “Good Hair”, whats the process for being on these shows and why did’nt they book him, I am here in Atlanta and we all know how much they play Breakup on the radio here but it’s just not enough to play your single you have got to get yourself out there.

  39. @Nakita Benjamin I agree not to throw shade but kind like Ashanti. The funny part is when Ciara was hot no one really cared for Rhianna now look how the tables has turn every one gets their turn but how can you make the turn last thats the Question lol.

  40. He needs to figure out how to get on Oprah. Thats the only thing that can save him now.

  41. *claps hands*.,@Nakita B- I am sooo proud of you girl!!!.,LOL!!.,you made a valid point about Ciara and I must admit that I agree w/ you on a lot of the things you said in regards to her!!!.,:):)

    As for Mario.,Jesus take the wheel

  42. lets c..If i started managing Mario 2day 1st thing would b 2 re market the single…its a banger and erybody rocks 2 it in the club…he has 2 reestablish the prominance of the song and let EVERY1 kno tht its on the album…next is picking the nxt single and remixing the 1st with a proper video and all…not jus a b side remix…next im bookin Mario newhere i can get at least 500 ppl in…clubs, bars, small venues u kno lil intimate spots (fellow oceaner 00711 jus did a show at a small club called Sonar here last night) u have 2 make tht connection wit the fans…like sum1 said massive spamming on talk shows and late night television…if Jigga ca do leno then so can Mario…

    and as the record company its all about RE RELEASE…im hypin this back up like it neva came out…posters, magazine pages, commercials, he gonna get features on projects tht r out…u gotta set it up like it neva came out…the RE RELEASE…JD i kno u seen video games do it all the time…strt showin a commercial 4 2k10 arnd christmas like it aint out already…u gotta create tht buzz and mass appeal tht wasnt there b4

  43. 1. Mario’s management needs to get him on all the TV shows with his latest single. Fallon, O’bren, Kimmel, Leno, Letterman, The View, etc.

    2. His label should try something new to get the word out about his album like an Youtube campaign. Meaning you get all the biggest Youtubers to use his song in a video. You might even have Mario do an acoustic video with somebody like David Sides, the piano player, on Youtube. Artist will do an interview on Thisis50.com and get 50,000 view at best on the video when David Sides get 1 million views in a month on just one of his videos. I have seen many people sub go from like 2000 to 20000 just because some big Youtuber shouts them out. You fuck with Youtube JD but do you know who is hot on the site.

    Justin Beiber’s track One Time broke on YT worldwide even though they basically release him in Canada first but because he had his Youtube audience before he got sign. He was already worldwide. Taylor Swift did a video with her friends to his track and that help break his single too. Now maybe that was all put together by the label but it works.

    You have friends at Warner Music ask them why they came back to Youtube. I think Trey would have did better if his video for his singles would have been on Youtube. WMG realize they fucked up when they did it and it hurt a lot of the marketing efforts for their artists.

  44. First off as his management I would have never had that many damn people on the song in the first place. Why is Sean Garrett on it anyway? Don’t worry I’ll wait. & Gucci?? I’ll wait for that one too. The beat is dope, & Sean wrote 1 hellova song. I can’t see him performing this song by himself & it having the same affect live as it does on air.106 & Park not being as dope as it was w/ free & AJ doesn’t help as well as no more TRL so artists need to really take advantage of thes FREE social networking sites. He needs to have posters everywhere. I remember when LiL Kims Hardcore came out I was young but my uncle remembered the release date just because he saw that poster!!! Out here in LA the Radio is WACK!!! Artists need to put out 2-3 singles & videos prior to release dates. That’s what upset me about diddy & Day26. Their album is dope but the timing of the singles & videos for both albums were terrible.

    2. To salvage his album first off he’s lucky if it goes gold, he needs to release the best song on that album asap with a video. Hopefully a ballad! He needs to be on twitter he needs a SayNow, a facebook, he needs a youtube accout upload vblogs every damn day if possible. The days of magazines are over so he needs to do a photoshoot with Hannibal Mattews & do interviews with some of these blogs. Do a free show with the purchase of an album in a particular city….& grow that damn hair back. Trey did about 150k with one single out & while I don’t agree with the choice of the 2nd one he promoted the hell out his album. He needs to get his team in check or find himself moving 8000 units like Joey Crack! Errbody wanna b great but don’t wanna put the time & effort in. Gotta market yourself as a brand!let’s go!

  45. @the_truth Says: THANKS. LOL! I GLAD YOU UNDERSTAND ME FOR ONCE.

  46. I use to work with these guys that use to manage Mario when he 1st started and I don’t think he ever had a great management team to begin with. He doesn’t have people that are nurturing his career. I actually think he has more talent than most cats in the business his age. I use to manage groups and from experience it’s a give and take. You have these greedy bastards that try to steal your artists by talking up a big dream..where I was telling them it’s going to take hard work & dedication. People want the fast money, cars, bling, lifestyle..they want to LIVE THE LIFE (lol) like a rock star but are stuck in the rookie mentality. So they can be easily led astray. I don’t know who he has now but..
    1. He needs management that will put it all out there for him. They have to go online the line and go hard FOR HIM! Make sure he has the best deals and a sick marketing and advertising strategy. Cater to who his target audience is and make sure he can hit that mark every time.
    2. The record company should PROMOTE PROMOTE PROMOTE!!! Stand behind the artist you sign with enthusiasm and vigor. If you don’t believe it…we sure as hell won’t! Record companies forget to develop their artists and just throw them out to the lions for a feed for all! WTF?
    Like sports…they suck these kids out of high school..damn near out the crib…and then turn them loose the jungle and wonder why later they are out their acting like gotdamn animals…it’s all about development and nurtuing. Art is like a baby..they have to crawl before they can walk..record companies need to get back to that like in the Berry Gordy days.

    Also the artist (Mario) needs to jump on their asses when the record company doesn’t produce what it promised…it’s not enough to dream…you have to take action to achieve your dream…..

    …..AND I’M OUT!!!
    ~CHYNNA~

  47. Jamie blamed it on the A-a-a-l-c-h-o-l. Mario should blame it on the M-A-A-A-R-K-E-T-I-N-G.
    Twitter at this point, will not help the numbers. However, if the record company is willing to put their money on such things as ADVERTISEMENTS on T.V. RADIO BILLBOARDS…and the lik…$omething is bound to give!

  48. Hey there everyone!!! Have a blessed weekend and be safe!!!! 🙂

    @ Chynna………. Say that shit one moe gan!!!! I LOVE the TRUTH!!!

    yall betta write it down….fella

    Shalla Thangs,
    GeeGee

  49. @Tellingthetruth101 YEAH I AGREE WITH YOU ON THAT. MUSICIANS/ARTIST NEED TO SHOW MORE COMPASSION WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR MUSIC THAN TRYING TO BE HARD/SEXY TO GET PEOPLE’S ATTENTION. YOU NOTICE THAT TODAY’S MUSIC IS FOR THE CLUBS. WELL FINALLY THERES SOME MUSIC OUT THERE THAT ARE REALLY GOOD WICTH ARE J SON, JENNIFER HUDSON, AND ECT. SO I CAN’T COMPLAIN BECAUSE REAL MUSIC IS FINALLY COMING BACK. I JUST WISH THEM WANNABE’S GET DROPPED OUT OF THEIR RECORD LABEL FOR NOT BEING ORIGINAL.

    SINCE YOU MENTION ASHANTI, YOU KNOW SHE GOT THEM CRAZY EYES THAT SO ATTRACTING TO THE VIEWERS WHEN WATCHING HER MUSIC VIDEOS BACK THAN RIGHT? BUT NOW SHE’S LIKE MORE GIRLLY NOW THAN WHEN SHE FIRST CAME OUT, AND I DON’T LIKE THE ASHANTI I SEE NOW. HER RECENT FUCKING RECORD SUCKS! (SHAKING MY HEAD) I DIDN’T LIKE THAT FIRST SINGLE SHE PUT OUT. I FORGOT THE DAMN TITLE OF THE SONG. LOL! I SAW THE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE, AND I WAS LIKE WTF??? YOU KNOW THAT VIDEO WITH HER AND HER HOBBY NELLY. THAT VIDEO WAS JUST PLAIN WACK!! EVEN THOUGH SHE CAN’T SING FOR SHIT, ATLEAST SHE TRIED HER BEST DURING THE YEARS.

    MAN, I DON’T FUCK WITH RIHANNA. LOL! I HATE HER ANNOYING VOICE. I JUST DON’T LIKE THE TONE TO HER VOICE. IT’S TOO HIGH PITCH, LIKE A 4 YEAR OLD. PLUS HER MUSIC IS POP NOT R&B. I LIKE POP MUSIC IN THE 90’S WHEN BRITNEY SPEARS DIDN’T CAME OUT. I LIKE MUSIC THAT SPEAKS ABOUT REAL SHIT BESIDES RANDOM SHIT LIKE TODAY. WHEN I WATCH HER VIDEOS, I FEEL LIKE I’M WATCHING SESAME STREET YOU FEEL ME. YOUNG KIDS WOULD BUY ONTO RIHANNA. RIHANNA COULD HAVE BEEN A DISNEY ARTIST, THAT’S HOW I FEEL. SHE’S SEXY THOUGH, THAT’S THE ONLY GOOD THAN CAN SAY ABOUT HER.

    I FEEL LIKE ALL THE FEMALE ARTIST LIKE BEYONCE, RIHANNA, ASHANTI AND WHOEVER LOOKS LIKE BEYONCE ARE ALL THE SAME TO ME WHEN IT COMES TO THERE STYLE, SOUND, AND LYRIC CONTENT. I HAD ENOUGH OF IT! IT’S BEEN 10 YEARS NOW SINCE I HAVEN’T WATCH MTV, BET, OR VH1. I DO WATCH IT SOMETIME TO SEE WHAT’S NEW AND WHO’S NEW, BUT EVERY FUCKING MUSIC VIDEO THAT I’VE SEEN FOR 10 YEARS NOW REMINDS ME OF EVERYONE ELSES THAT I’VE SEEN. LMAO! IT’S LIKE PEOPLE COME UP WITH THE SAME VIDEO CONCEPT ALL THE TIMES. IT’S LIKE NO ONE KNOW’S WHAT TO SING ABOUT NOMORE, SO THEY COME UP WITH SOME RANDOM LYRICS AND HOPE THAT PEOPLE WILL SING TO IT OR DANCE TO IT. I DON’T SUPPORT SHITTY, EFFORTLESS MUSIC.

    IT’S LIKE NOW PEOPLE DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SING ABOUT NOMORE. I JUST WISH I CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING ABOUT MUSIC RIGHT NOW. I CAN DIFFENTLY OUT BEAT ALL THEM WACKAS. LOL!

  50. UM JUST TO LET U KNOW POP MEANS POPULAR MUSIC. HELLO THERES NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT. R&B POP IS ALL GOOD. THE SHIT SELLS. GOT DAMN MICHAEL JACKSON KING OF POP. POPULARITY,

    GOT DAMN IT. THAT SHIT PISSES ME OFF. POP IS A GREAT THING. UR TALKING GENRE. R U TELLING ME FOLKS LIKE SEAN PAUL, EMINEM, DMX, JAGGED EDGE, 112, MARIO, TLC, SWV JANET JACKSON, ARENT POPULAR ARTIST/MUSIC. GET OFF THE GENRE BULLSHIT. YES CIARA GREAT ARTIST TO HAS GREAT HIS, DONT KNOCK BEYONCE CAUSE SHES MAKING A GREAT SOLO CAREER, RIHANNA JUST CHRIS BROWN BEAT, DOWN SO HER NEW MUSIC IS GONNA GO HARDER THAN BEFORE I HOPE, AND ASHANTI JUST HAS THAT GOD HAS BLESSED ME STYLE.

    dmx (hardcore rap) + he is also know world wide = POPULAR.
    JD, swizz beats, timberland, jazze pha, manny fresh, and more is big time producers + known world wide = POPULAR
    ciara (r&b) + known world wide = POPULAR
    KORN (metal) + KNOWN GLOBAL WIDE = POPULAR
    WILL SMITH (CLOWN)(RAP/ACTOR) KNOWN GLOBAL WIDE = POPULAR.

    got damn

    POP STANDS FOR POPULAR MUSIC

  51. wat up jd if i was managing Mario I would have more fan participation in wats going on with him! something like u said have fans participate in some way in the process of makin the album, maybe do youtube to show behind the scenes of recording then asks the fans to pick which songs they like! I would also try to get him to do more tv shows or maybe daytime shows to get hisface out there more! I would also try to get him on some magazine not just urban but more mainstream magazine as possible. I would also try to help him find a images that will separate him from the other R&B cats. Possible have him write more and produce for himself! I would also have him work with new producers possibly ones overseas or new cats so he could get some young blood. I would also have him do more shows in smaller venues make them more intimate. Also have more money for advertisment would help on the net and on physically billboards! I think Mario is a very talented dude its just that the game is so oneside and its hard 4 ppl to tell the diff btwn him and the other dudes. JD i think u r on to something with these social networks but in additonal to him doing commericals for national productS. take him from being an r and b dude and make him into a Pop star with longevity and crediblity. But truly writing his own material may be also an avenue he may need to take!

  52. I’d pay Twitter to keep my artists in the trending topics for weeks like Jay-Z did.

    I saw a commercial for Mario’s on BET, while watching The Game. I think that was great placement.

  53. @Nakita Benjamin Were all going off subject lol but not really lol.

    Yeah I so feel you I liked Ashanti too but she didn’t do nothing for me lol but I can say she can sing better than Ciara and Rhianna put together lol.

    You know what I think people wanted something fresh and new something like the old 90s female acts then Ashanti came and so people wanted something replace that, Thats why so many people liked Ashanti lol then Beyonce came with her first album people didn’t really care for Ashanti but not just that 50cent made it worst for Ashanti lol.

    @Nakita Benjamin I bet you like Tamia, Kelly Price,Jill Scott,India arie Ledsi, and others greats singers who get over look which is sad.

  54. If I was managing Mario I would tell him the must important thing right now for him to do is to get attention. I would have him doing a lot of shows. With his shows I would have it at a venue where it is small enough to where he can interact with his fans. He would definitely need to start using social media. What he could do is show how tough if it is to make it in the industry and air it on Youtube. While he is doing this he can have his audience participate by getting their response to his questions because that is going to be the must important part (audience participation). He can also perform some of the songs that didn’t make the album and ustream it. The most important thing is interacting with his audience on social media, he has to let them into his life and get personal so they can relate to him. The reason I say this is he has to differentiate himself from everybody else. I think that’s whats wrong with a lot of struggling artist out there they have yet to create their own lane.

    As far as the company is concerned I doubt that they will spend any more money on his promotion but maybe he can get on some other artist albums. I think as of right now he needs to take matters into his own hands and get on his grind.

  55. As a Public Relatons degree holder I consider myself at least some what informed on how this could be fixed but I am at a loss. I don’t know enough about Mario… and that is the problem. I have been a fan since his first album back when we were all prounouncing his name wrong. I watched the reality show with his mother and have deep respect for him as a man in general for what he does for her and his siblings. As an artist he is an enigma. Quality exposure is what is important now. Fans expect to see his life via these social networking sites. People know release dates ususally but they buy from artists they like and connect with. That is why living the life is so crucial to the Ocean’s success. Based on the fan base built by the blogs and vlogs you could sell triple the numbers of anyone who dropped this week. Also I live in Chicagoland and I never hear about him being in town for shows on the radio. Now I can’t make a real recommendation without knowing what his team already has or hasn’t done.

    I can’t speak as a manager but I can speak as a publicist and my plan would be:

    1. Accept the first week numbers as a solid starting point, address the label and make them aware this is what limited promotion and marketing produces. If your artist didn’yt hold up his end of the bargain accept responsibility and pitch a complete plan to get numbers up.

    2. Set up a youtube vlog and an associated blog. Reference live shows, release dates and just film your real life. We don’t care that you are rich, we just want to connect with you. Fans expect it or they feel cheated. Social networkign has increased expectations exponentially of what artists let fans see.

    3. Plan a tour as many cities ad as many shows as possible. It is a sacrifice but it is important again to connect people to your brand.

    4. Develop your brand! Stop allowing companies to do product placements in your videos without offering more exposure for you as an artist. Instead negotiating drinking money or money to buy a car arrange an endorsement deal. He can sell underwear, hair products, anything. If people beginto recognize the his face they’ll recognize the artist and his brand further.

    5. Better videos: meaning make sure fans can see your face, eyes and who you are. Break up’s video involved Mario in shades and a backwards hat mostly. Jay z, Beyonce, Wayne, their silhouettes are unmistakable and recognizable because it is seen regularly in print ads and on tv.

    6. Finally pull a Rocafella Records: use your own money to do videos and go grass roots with it. It will show your current and the next label that you are serious about your success as serious as I’m sure you expect them to be about it. Another label will court you if they see you putting in the effot to truly help your own career. Hitting the booth and the stage is not enough anymore.

    Unfortunately many artists may not want to make the sacrifices associated with earning real succes in this cutthroat industry. But it’s like that elsewhere in life, music is your career so put in the time, effort, money, and passion needed to get you where you need to go.

    J.D. here’s a topic for you: Why do most black athletes and artists choose not to spend money on quality management, P.R., stylists, and brand managers ? Most of them hire their home boy, cousins, mamas and It seems the only thing most of them spend real money on is attorneys when they get in trouble?

    Now when I say good money, I mean hiring trained, licensed, and degreed professionals in these fields. I’m sure they pay their home boys well but is he really trained to negotiate your contract or manage the day to day affairs of your brand? How many ball players have sued their friends for embezzalment or brand mismanagement? Just wondering and you being in the industry probabaly can clarify.

  56. @kinglovejoyltl SO WHAT IF POP MUSIC STANDS FOR POPULAR MUSIC. BACK IN THE 90’S, WHEN I HEAR A POP SONG FROM MICHAEL, IT SOUNDS FRESH, LIKE YOU CAN HEAR THE DRUMS POP EVERY SECOND. TEDDY RILEY IS A GENUS BECAUSE HE MADE MICAHEL’S DANGEROUS ALBUM A MEGA HIT. MICAHEL HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT BECAUSE IT’S ALL FROM HIS VISION. I LIKE THAT KIND OF POP EVEN THOUGH IT GOT THAT NEW JACK SWING FLAVA IN YA EAR.

    WHEN BRITNEY SPEARS CAME OUT WITH BABY ONE MORE TIME, I HATED IT, AND THAN WHEN SHE CAME OUT WITH ANOTHER HIT, I HATED IT EVEN MORE. THE REASON WHY I HATE IT BECAUSE IT SOUNDS LIKE DISNEY MUSIC. IT GOT THAT YOUNG SOUND TO IT. I DIDN’T SOUND COOL TO ME.
    BECAUSE OF HER, THAT’S WHEN TLC BECAME POP, BLAQUE BECAME POP, 702 BECAME POP, IMMATURE BECAME POP…. IN THE LATE 90’S. I GOTTA IMMITE, POP THAN WAS OK. BUT I NOTICE THAT IN THE LATE 90’S, EVERY POP BEAT SOUNDED THE SAME, YOU CAN TELL IT CAME FROM THE SAME PRODUCER THAT CREATED THOSE SOUNDS/BEATS.

    NOW DAYS, POP IS BORING. THE CONCEPT NEVER CHANGED.
    MICHAEL MADE POP COOL. ON THE CHORUS, HIS HARMONIZING ALWAYS GIVES ME GOOSE BUMPS.
    HE LIKES TO SING AGGRESSIVELY, LIKE HOW ROCKERS DO IT, BUT HE MAKES IT SOUND COOL.
    ALSO I LIKE THAT HE SINGS ABOUT ISSUES IN TODAY’S SOCIETY, HE MAKES SHORE THAT IT BRINGS A POWERFUL BEAT WITH IT.

  57. @Tellingthetruth101 YEAH, ASHANTI DOES SOUND BETTER THAN RIHANNA AND CIARA. I THINK CIARA SOUNDS BETTER THAN ASHANTI BY THE WAY. I GET WHAT YOU MEAN, RIHANNA’S VOCALS MIX WITH CIARA’S VOCALS COMBINE DOES SOUND LIKE ASHANTI.

    A LOT OF PEOPLE WANT THAT 90’S FEEL BACK. I MISS EVERYTHING ABOUT THE 90’S. I MISS THE BEGGY CLOTHING. I MISS THE LEATHER. I MISS THEM SUN GLASSES. I MISS THE DARK SMOKEY MAKE UP. I MISS THE MUSIC VIDEO CONCEPT. I MISS THEM HOTASS BEATS THAT MAKES YOU WANT TO DANCE YOUR BUTT OFF. MAN I MISS THE 90’S R&B AND 90’S HIP HOP.

    90’S MUSIC IS NOTHING COMPARE TO TODAY’S MUSIC. TODAY’S MUSIC IS THE WORST DECADE OF MUSIC EVER. LOL!

  58. Mario is an established artist on multiple fronts. Pre-album launch, there could have been a viral album launch campaign 4 fans to host their own listening parties w/designated captains. Street Teams could host them 2 & have posters streets and singles 4 the club. I would social network to allow fans 2 connect and discover more about him. He could host ladies nights in select cities 4 the candy effect. Proper video showcasing his acting skills could work also. Late night/day shows r good but 2 of each is enough.

    How 2 save it now? Reintroduce the artist with proper mkting & buzz. Allow him 2 engage his fans with a unique spin of the full-on blitz.

  59. Hey JD-first let me start off by saying I’m a big fan and a lifer, I’m a frequent vistor to your site and youtube videos, but don’t comment much. But since this question is near to my heart (my dream is to be an A&R rep) i felt i needed to comment.

    If I was Mario’s manager I would’ve released to album very soon after his stint on Dancing with the Stars, the way album’s are selling these days and record companies seem to not want to put alot of promotion dollars behind the talented artist. Its unforunate but true, so the artist and his management must take all free promotion and run with it. Now, I’m sure it would’ve difficult to release a quality project soon after the his stint because I’m sure the scheduling for DWTS was crazy, but dealing with the current climate of the music industry it was absolutely a MUST that they should’ve attempted to do so.

    To salvage this project the record company should ofcourse throw more marketing dollars behind the projuect, but honestly I feel that the artist and their management have to take more control sometimes and do the leg work themselves. Like its very unforunate but record companies aren’t backing artist like they should. If I was Mario’s manager, I would document his days by video and load them on the web. We are in a reality show world right now, and it seems to help alot of artist sell records. I’d also hit the pavement running, and go back to promoting him as if he was a new artist. Do small town shows, and radio drops. Also, I would’ve had him relaese a mixtape before his official album dropped to create some type of anticipation for the album, kinda like Trey Songz did with Anticipation and Drake did with So far Gone. If I were his manager I’d really grind it out like he was a new artist. I’m mean they just have to put in the work to get the results and stop depending on the record label to do the work, because they obviously aren’t and this is his career…they will still have a career long after his is over.

    JD-I have alot of ideas on A&R(ing) artist and I feel the demise of the A&R is partly to blame for the demise of the record industry. I’d love to sit down and talk with you about some of my idea. I’m live in Atlanta, so if have the time hit me up. (I know this may be a long shot, but hey I have to try.)

  60. THIS SHIT SO FUNNY.

    Tyra banks puts ciara in her place and shows the world that ciara really cannot sing
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXnX7yfZC88&feature=related

  61. 1.) I would fire my publicist. Try to get more ‘savvy’ with todays youtube/twitter/facebook applications.

    2.) The way to salvage it is to make a few hot singles and make a re-release of the album with the new singles. Maybe a DVD with music videos etc.

    I have to admit Mario puts out some heat but it just sucks that his work always gets leaked before or doesn’t get the publicity he should.

  62. Well I love the music industry. My dream really and no bull is to work with JD and Jay-Z as an A&R talent search.
    I think Mario made the worst mistake by not taking at least 90% of promotion into his own hands. Now if he wants to come back from this, he needs to get out to the radios, get on the web, book as many interviews and tv apperances as possible. Jay Leno, 106, mtv, Vh1, Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, Blackplanet, everything. That is what I would do if I was on his management team. Come out of your own pocket for things. Also you don’t need to do a millon dollar video. Get mor intouch with your own visual. Do what you want to do and not what someone else picks out for you. The fans like the real person and not just the artist. DiiGG!! That’s why LTL gets so many hits. Shout out to B.Cox and Johnta by the way…

    Two, the record label needs to do more advertising. Since Mario’s album has been out, even befor it was, I’ve seen a total of about five comercials for it. That’s bullshit to me. Promote your artist as your product. Don’t pull a Diddy. Diddy only promotes himself 100% the rest of his artist gets 40%. Also the label should make sure that the artist is putting out the best material possible and not just good for the moment. Like look and dondria, she hasn’t come out yet because JD won’t let her put out a flop. He is going to make sure it is the best out also why Johnta’s album is still in the works,.
    DiiGG!!

  63. 1. He needs more publicity. He needs to be on Twitter, and ustream, facebook (although, I don’t think it’s as effective), and myspace on GP. He needs to be on tour with somebody. He should have been on the powerhouse tour with Day 26, Trey Songz and Chris Brown, but that’s neither here nor there. He needs to be an opening act for somebody major.

    2. He needs to drop a second single, and quick. He needs to do that, even before touring. His one song is getting a ton of spins, but Drake has like 4 or 5 songs, if not more, spinning constantly. He needs another hit video, to go with that song.

    3. The daytime/night time suggestion is good, but I wonder if his audience is watching that stuff. They seem a little too young for it. He needs a high profile GIRLFRIEND, so Necole Bitchie, Media Takeout and YBF feel a need to pay attention to him. HE needs a date with Rhianna, or at least a BFF moment.

    4. He needs a CREW, who is he linked to? Who are his boys? He needs more spotlight, he should be hanging out with Chris Breezy, Bow Wow and Soulja Boy. They all need a little help right now.

    5. He needs more magazine coverage! More interviews, more shocking statements, like the stuff that he spoke about with Necole Bitchie. That was a great interview. She gives him love, but not so much the other websites.

    6. RECORD LABEL…it’s 4th quarter man, they aren’t doing anything else. That’s not just entertainment, I don’t care if you work for Proctor and Gamble. In this economy, the money is gone for marketing and other things. That’s what he needs. His label needs to send him on a morning radio tour. Hit up all the major markets. Figure out where he sells the most, the least, then create a travel itinerary based off of past album sales, radio spins, and current sales. The label needs to do the research, collect the data points, and actually come up with a real strategy. Unfortunately, they don’t employ many MBA’s. Mario should invest in hiring his own Harvard MBA to do the strategic marketing. REAL TALK!

  64. QUESTION NUMBER 1. IF YOU WERE MANAGING MARIO WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
    In the music industry, the management team consists of certain key members. Namely: the artiste’s manager, publicist, financial manager and most importantly THE ARTISTE. With that in mind, as part of his mgmt team, each of us would be held responsible in terms of articulating Mario’s vision through our different skill sets. The manager would be responsibile for seeing to that shows, concerts, interviews are booked ahead of time even before the release of the album. The publicist would be responsible for generating attention through social/viral marketing(twitter, ustream, facebook, myspace, blogs), traditional marketing(commercials on TV, ads on radio, billboards). When it’s all said and done, MONEY will be a key factor in terms of jumpstarting some of the above mentioned. This is where the financial organizer will come in, they will be responsible for setting a realistic budget taking into account the funds available, the scope , and anticipated album sales. Finally, Mario has to be in the thick of things. Granted that the management team is not only working WITH HIM but also FOR HIM, he also needs to be assertive in terms of his short-term and long-term goals in regards to his career. Of course, the management team may look at things from a business perspective, as opposed to him looking at it from a creative point of view, a point of comprise needs to be met by all.

    QUESTION NUMBER 2.WHAT SHOULD THE RECORD COMPANY DO TO SALVAGE THIS PROJECT ?
    The record company is a BRAND NAME. Therefore it needs to affiliate itself more with Mario. To salvage this particular project his record label needs to be at the core of the marketing aspect of his project. That is, the distribution, promotion, as well as also working hand in hand with his management team!

  65. If I were managing Mario I would first assess his past accomplishments to see what has gotten him to this level. Historically he has been a strong 1st single guy and then a mildly strong second single. I think they picked the rawest joint off his project for the 1st single. The album has strong pop undertones. The vocal arrangements have a MJ-esque boyish, quivery quality which is cool(especially numbers 4 and 12). Don’t flood the project with the same sound. Understand that the great bands would produce albums that meshed. By that, I mean Earth Wind and Fire, for example, didn’t switch snares on each record. Their albums still popped. I know Mario is by no means comparable to EWF. I just think his project’s single is misleading. Every joint can’t be the club joints but again they should be indicative of the tone of the album. A great example is Usher’s Confession. The singles were dope!! Whether they were club records, mid tempo, or ballads. Mario’s album does not have as much balance. Number 8 they could’ve kept off the overly used A …A…A….A….and maybe used Apache drums to make it more street. Again I only say this because the single is street r&B. His shit was tight overall. What must be considered is his audience. He appeals to r&b/hiphop fans, pop-r&b fans, as well as, 30 and over ie “you should let me love you”. I can understand why it isn’t as raw as it could be. Its really consistent with his image. They should’ve touched up some the tracks like they do his photos. Remixes also give street cred, so if that’s what he’s seeking that may be a good look. I also think they let the single run a lil too long. You need support. The next single is your bench, your supporting cast and he has 3 to 4 viable options to keep the project alive. Regardless of the marketing techniques, it all begins with the product. He needs to appeal to his core fan base (LADIES), point blank!
    As far his project, I don’t think it needs to salvaged because it isn’t completely junk. He is a multi faceted performer in that he sings, and dances. He just needs to be on point every time he is seen. I think the Essence Music Fest is a good look in satisfying/attracting the 30 and up crowd, as well as the dance show being good publicity. The label should strongly encourage him to have a really tight band/choreography so that bloggers’ll be like his show is off the chain. Less pop and more r&b. Pop is cool but it is a derivative art form. You gotta be on ya Mike game in terms of showmanship to really come off….either that or have the kind of album people can’t live without.

  66. update: I don’t know if I’m late but I just saw the video for his second single, “Been Thinking About You” It’s alright but my hypothesis remains true hot 1st single, weaker second joint.
    OUT

  67. @Nakita Benjamin
    just b/c u hate some music or artist, it doesnt mean they arent pop.
    its a global thang. any artist loves to be known as pop music. pop
    music will be everything u hear in a club, ur fat joe lean back to michael jackson
    bad. popular music isnt always gonna be everyone favorite joint, album, or artist,
    but it will get folks in the mood for energy and fun. like it or not.

  68. Too late… they had to do alot more while they where finishing up the album … I’m talkin’ youtube videos of making of’s … studio sessions … a day in a life type of stuff… Maybe put the single in a hot serie like entourage with a cameo!!!
    I live in europe … We love Mario out here!! Most people don’t even know he has an album out!!!!! So maybe his management should play the international card a lil more!! a DVD with the first thousands of copies…
    A perfect example: Fabolous and trey songz!!! These guyz were EVERYWHERE, internet, featurings, videos, interviews, magazine covers!!!!!!!!!!!!
    People need to get focused!!! ASAP

  69. JD, there’s also another artist which came out invisibly. It’s Sean Kingston, he had a huge success with his first album and totally flopped with the second. By the way I didn’t like the “Tomorrow” album too much.
    I haven’t seen any blogs showing the Sean Kingston sales numbers, only for the first week wich were like less than 30k. I’m sure a lot of people didn’t know he put out a new album.
    Anyway he had a big hit single “Fire Burning” but his label fucked up him like Mario waiting too much time to put the album out and then we see the result.
    So these fucking labels need to me more reactive and put the albums out when their artists are up on the charts not when they drop their second single whis is most of time never hotter than their first.
    Peace

  70. QUESTION NUMBER 1. IF YOU WERE MANAGING MARIO WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
    I would have not tried to ride the rave of 1n single and think that it would give me a diamond album. He needs Drake buz which means 3 or 4 of the top 10 should either be your singles are singles that you are on. Part of the reason that artist like Wayne with the Carter III and Drake with his up coming album is that they stay hitting you with something new. Before the 1st song can even get a chance to get old u have a another banger out with the hottest of the hot.
    There was very bad promotions on this CD i had no idea when his CD was coming out and from the sound of it netiher did anyone else. Its just sad because his single was really hot and instead of his label keeping him current and out there they let the buz die.
    He needs to jump on the next tour smoking and create his own buzz sometime u have to make ur own way and show ur still hungry for this shit.

  71. MARIO SHOULD HAVE HAD A WEB PRESENCE AT LEAST SIX MONTHS AGO……. HE SHOULD JUMP ON THE SOCIALS RIGHT NOW.

  72. Okay, I am late to the discussion so I won’t ask questions, as I am sure no one is really left reading. I will attempt to address both questions together.

    First, some points of clarification:
    1. Mario is on tour right now with Trey Songz and Day 26.
    2. As some have mentioned, he did release a 2nd single prior to this album release. (Though, I couldn’t tell you how it goes even though I have listened to it on the radio a few times).
    a. However, I was in my car most of today and didn’t hear the song at all. Go figure.

    Second, lessons learned from the handling of Mario’s latest album up to this week:

    1. He needs to release singles (1st, 2nd or otherwise) that feature HIM. I thought “Break Up” was Gucci Mane’s song. And the only reason why I know it is Mario’s is because they say so. Nothing about that song says “this is Mario’s song.” He should have just released that to the clubs or something and came out with an actual first single.
    a. Personally, I think Mario was really building something going from “Turning Point” to “Go!”. I thought he had really transitioned into adulthood very well and I felt that “Break Up” was actually a step back for him. He was a rising star, especially after being on DWTS.

    2. Wrong lead singles make it hard to figure out who to market the album to. I mean, could he have really gone onto the View, GMA or Today show with that single? Mario has the charisma and name recognition that he could get on those shows (or even Oprah) with a “Let me love you” kind of single. However, “Break Up” was going nowhere but 106&Park and obviously that wasn’t enough.
    a. I don’t care how big that single was, it just never seemed to correlate with who Mario was and what he was trying to sell. Although, I’m sure the song did wonders for Gucci Mane (party party party, let’s all get wasted!).

    MOVING FORWARD:
    1. I think the album can be salvaged but they just need to move forward. Whatever is the strongest song (or if they really believe in that 2nd single), they need to start performing it any and everywhere they can. I mean, was he even on Tyra’s show? He needs to start performing all over. Ellen? Regis? He needs to get out there. It is not too late to say “albums in stores NOW”. That is not hard for people to remember.

    2. He needs to take over cities. While he is on tour, he needs to be all over radio, dedicating hours to his music. When he came home (Baltimore on Wednesday) he didn’t perform because he was sick so I don’t know how he has been promoting while on tour. But he needs to be on the 2-6pm show (or 10-2pm) to talk about his album and mention every other time that it is in stores NOW. Play a couple of strong songs on the album (sorry but leave the club bangers for after purchasing listening).

    3. Mario has been doing some acting and I think he needs to do that more. Bigger roles and get his name out there (brand building, kind of like Tyrese). Plus, that acting money could be better and free him up to get a better direction on his music career.
    a. He is really one of the few male R&B singers that can actually sing and he needs to know that as long as he takes care of his voice, no one can ever take that from him. And he should never compromise the gift that he has. So “sitting” on it for a while won’t hurt. (see Jamie Foxx).

    As for social networking, though he means well, I’m not sure how interesting his vids will be, lol. I think the Ocean boys make it look easy but really, everyone can’t pull it off. I’ve seen some painful vlogs. They were straight snoozefest and made me almost regret liking the artist, lol. Also, I think the jury is still out on # of views/followers turning into album sales.

    However, I do believe that online promotion has to be more than putting wallpaper ads on urban blogs the day before the album comes out. (Of course, I’m so slow I still didn’t know when the album was coming out. How about including a date on that poster next time, lol).

    All in all, I really want Mario to reach the highest heights. He is one of the few artists from Baltimore and he actually reps the city now, lol. He is truly talented and I believe if he just puts his head down and go full force into his career, he can really succeed. And if he has a bunch of people around him that don’t believe or don’t know how to reach these heights, tell him to give me a call 🙂

  73. If I were Mario’s Manager I would have waited to release the Break up single, and the current single. Next year would have been a smoother approach.

    Marketing needs to go back to the older times. crazy radio interviews, mall signings, excessive album plugging, heavy street team presence, guest appearances (TV,Parties, late night), Poster up cars literally. And dont limit to only US consumers. There are so many countrys to reach out to. Mario Has been quiet for a long time as well; so philantropy of some sort is so needed. Thats just the beginning. 106 and park tour? that was cute, LOL. Why would he do well? Hes not offering himself to the world. Minimal thinking will give you minimal results. For the past year He should have been everywhere he could.

    So its a rough fix to salvage. No one knew the album was even out.

    Technology has shifted,
    But the old ways are still affective. And Record Execs are to scared or lazy to put in the work to get the job done. Artist Development isn’t what it was, Financial support is far from what it was, and no one is willing to take a chance; they would much rather settle. Step your business plans up if you want to thrive again. Market acts as a product and groom these artist like you once did. Set the standard instead of the poor ol’ me mentality. Or bitch and moan about how ringtones are the way and CD’s cant sell anymore. And I guarantee the hungry katz who refuse to conform to be like you all; will achieve what you dream about. Now That’s a promise. GOD bless all of you who are working in this crazy industry. And for those Who are incapable of adapting and creating the opportunities to be better. I expect to hear you bitching and moaning for the next 10+ years. I’ll see you from the top.

    -Charm

  74. Alright so im like so late on this disucssion but better late than never…

    Mario needed more exposure of himself simple…. be it social networking, television shows to be interviewed or perform, constant interesting twitter updates yes thank the fans for coming out and let them know where you are but come on now make it more fun and attract more twitterers to follow, building a network of strong supportive fans by introducing personalised phrases (whats unique to Mario, instantly recognisable within the online community), competitions (send pics in of you with album as used by Trey Songz and Tyrese for his comic book). Copying the formula that is working now as they were lazy in the first place that is the least they could do.

    Now I as a person that wants to work in this crazy industry we call entertainment and did so on the marketing side but for films I would take it to the next level that people are not at yet… social netwoking is just the start. We used to push messages out to the consumer but in the last few years that is now a pull factor to interact with the consumer, end user and form a relationship with them Heart, Head and Hand… connection with these is important. This projects low sales does not mean they cant start building for the future today… future album releases. Build for tomorrow from the lessons of today.

    Sidebar: I asked myself this question a few days ago… as a person that resides in London why do I keep seeing Trey Songz everywhere and know all that he is up to in comparison to Mario? Mario filmed the video for his new single in London and I did not even know he was here (unless that was a really good green screen). Real talk…

  75. For Mario, I would do a couple of things. First, I would start from the core. I know that the right marketing and promotion can do wonders, but with the internet and file sharing, you have to have a dope album. Mario started young, so in the eyes of the public, he’s getting old. I would start with the music and do a real album. An album without all of the “featuring” and hooks with raps and that sort of stuff. I would get some classic, name brand producers like Jam&Lewis, and babyface to put some real R&B music without the hiphop”ish” sound to it. Believe it or not, there is a market out there for classic, good smooth r&B music.

  76. It’s a shame that Mario isn’t getting the proper representation. His voice is so pure and full of talent. I for one had no idea he had a new album until I saw his most recent video. In the age of social networks pr teams/firms has to really re-organize their strategy. I’ve gone 10 months without cable and still knew what was going on in the world/entertainment industry etc because of social networks and marketing. The perfect example of an artist who has really tapped into that is Trey Songz (00711). While I knew of Trey and loved his music, I didn’t know him or recognize him past his released singles. With the buzz centered around Ready and the prequel Anticipation I definitely tuned into him more. His team did a great job of shoving him down our throats whether we liked it or not via twitter, tv, interviews, shows and especially connecting with fans; now I’m a Trey Songz fanatic! (Its a little scary sometimes lol). He became more personable. I love mario becasue I don’t think he conforms to what people “think” music should sound like at a particular time. Mario’s presence was so strong early in his career becasue he was fresh and naturally talented at such a young age. From seeing the potential we just knew he’d be great as an adult but unfortunately his presence has diminshed a bit…real ears missed a male voice like that. Sell, Sell, Sell should be the strategy, the album was release too early with not enough excitement. You can’t just count on the fans you already have to buy and be interested in your album; engage others and create new fans.

  77. David Archuleta is definitely one of the best singer in American Idol.:.`

  78. Ciara’s brand new album single ride be so sick! i am her number one stan n everyone best be on the lookout because Cici is going to smash these charts with Ride with Ludacris.

  79. Online promotion is heavily done by internet marketers out there promoting goods and services.;~~

  80. David Archuleta is great but for me, the best is still Kelly Clarkson;*-

  81. online promotion is a great way to introduce new products on the market..`”

  82. David Archuleta has a great voice but i do think that it is not the best voice*-,

  83. online promotion seems to be a fast way to make your products and services to be known;;.

  84. i just thought that adam lambert has a much better voice than David Archuleta’;`

  85. online promotion also takes some time just like offline promotion. it is just that online promotion is a bit faster compared to.,,

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