Tom Jackson Onstage

Play by the Rules Play by the Rules

From the time we’re little, we have to play by the rules. On the playground, we know that if “Simon says” it, then we do it. If we don’t hear “Simon says,” then we don’t do it. We play by the rules, or we lose... Read more...

Tom Jackson Onstage Features

Singers

American Idol: Singing or Performance? American Idol: Singing or Performance?

I understand that American Idol is a “singing” competition. But what amazes me is that in order to be heard properly, you have to “bring it.” In other words, you must perform! Stage presence, your ability to connect, your ability to... Read more...

Singers Articles and Information

Bands

The Group Dynamic on American Idol The Group Dynamic on American Idol

Being in a band or group of any kind requires teamwork. No question about it. That was very evident as I watched American Idol contestants divide up and perform in group competitions. It was rough! Many of them weren’t used to the give and take singing... Read more...

Bands Articles and Information

Songwriters

Know When To Hold ‘Em Know When To Hold ‘Em

“Just because you know a lot of chords and can play really fast doesn’t make you an expert.” – Aunt Bee Aunt Bee…a wise woman indeed. She says this to Andy after he hears a guy play guitar better than he can, and it leaves Andy feeling inferior.... Read more...

Songwriters Articles and Information

Christian/Gospel

You’ve Got 15 Minutes to Wow Them You’ve Got 15 Minutes to Wow Them

Here’s what’s happened: you’ve got 15 minutes to play because you’re just before the speaker, or you’re at a festival where that’s all the time they’ve given you, or maybe you’re opening for someone… So what do you do? How do you “wow” your audience in those few minutes? Read more…  Read More →

Christian/Gospel Articles and Information

Young Performers

American Idol: Top 24 Finally American Idol: Top 24 Finally

This week’s American Idol was really full of drama! In fact, picking the top 24 finalists played more like a dramatic series than a vocal competition. They really know how to keep a person on the edge of their seat as they talk to the artists, letting them know whether they’re in or out. (Makes for great TV, but it almost seems cruel at times.) Now... Read more...

Young Performers Articles and Information

Music News

Backstage at Bootcamp Backstage at Bootcamp

Last weekend’s Onstage Success Bootcamp was a success! This 2-day sold out event was held at S.I.R. in Nashville, one of the area’s premiere rehearsal/showcase venues. Artists came from all over the U.S., Canada, and even South Africa. Attendees included Tré Armstrong (judge from Canada’s So You Think You Can Dance), Maddy Rodriguez... Read more...

Rock & Roll with more Music News

Shout-outs & Congrats

Tom Silverman to Receive NARM Independent Spirit Award Tom Silverman to Receive NARM Independent Spirit Award

Music trade association NARM (“National Association of Recording Merchandisers”) will honor Tom Silverman, the founder, chairman and CEO of Tommy Boy Entertainment, with its Independent Spirit Award at the Annual NARM Convention in Chicago on Monday, May 17. The Independent Spirit Award was established in 2009 to recognize a music industry... Read more...

Congrats and more Shout-outs