Inside Scoop on the revised guidelines for Grammy voting membership status
I have been an associate member of NARAS for the past few years but they have wavered on whether my band [Crossway Worship Band] met requirements for voting status. Even though I we doubled the criteria with one CD and we had released 4 by now, online distribution was ignored for the first 2-3 years.
But once it became evident that internet sales are the future and its revenue and reach were nothing to balk at, they went over policies with a fine tooth comb and concluded that online sales in major stores may be enough but commission based inclusion didn't count.
Finally, last month The Academy announced new "Digital/Online Distribution Membership Guidelines" which strongly support the independent artist revolution! And this August they will be inviting any associate member wishing to be considered for voting status to submit their credentials. These recording credits are mostly confirmed @ www.allmusic.com if you'd like to check your public records.
ONE OF THE MAJOR DECIDING FACTORS WILL NOW BE A STRONG INTERNET PRESENCE WITH REGULAR BOOKINGS AND CD SALES (as evidence of an ongoing development of your professional music career). If you are ready to have your own website, or upgrade the professionalism of your current site, please let us know! Rebourne Strategies web development and hosting services.
Holly Simmers
901-826-7133
holly@rebourne.net
http://rebourne.us