Black Voices

Issue date: 11/29/06 Section: Entertainment

Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child spoke at the ASCAP panel

ASCAP's Rhythm & Soul Team hosted The Recipe: Making Hit Songs at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood on November 9, 2006, welcoming artists, songwriters, and producers to an evening of inspiration and insight from professionals in the industry.

The panel, led by Jay Sloan, Associate Director of Creative Affairs of ASCAP, was star-studded featuring panelists: recording artist/songwriter Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child ("Lose My Breath" and "Soldier"), songwriter Andre Merritt (Omarion's "Entourage" and "Marques Houston's "Favorite Girl"), as well as producer Alonzo "Zo" Lee, Jr. of TrakStarz (Chingy's "Right Thurr" and "One Call Away.")

Each panelist responded with advice drawn from his or her personal experiences and areas of expertise. In addition, the artists connected with the audience members, reassuring them that success doesn't come easy and that every artist is bound to encounter pain and rejection at some point in time.

According to the panelists and supported by the guests, developing artists commonly struggle to step away from writer's block and turn to outside sources for inspiration. Also, newcomers are often intimidated to ask for help because they feel pressured to prove their craftsmanship.

"I ain't got no problem stopping, saying, 'I'll come back tomorrow.' If it's not working, go home, go eat some Roscoe's, and you be like, 'Dang, I'm inspired,'" Williams said.

Aware that the industry can be discouraging, Merritt urged entry-level musicians to be patient, yet persistent in pursuing their passions. He explained that he wrote "Favorite Girl" five years ago and that it only recently became well received.

Likewise, Williams encouraged songwriters and producers to continue submitting their work because artists, such as herself, do pay attention to demos and may end up liking what they hear. Merritt stated, "If you hot, you hot...I'm here to create music. If you wanna get with me and we vibe, that's what's up.'"

Some of the best musicians are still unknown because they lack the access to be dis-covered and exposed. Zo described the trick to landing a record deal as a complex equation that involves being at the right place at the right time, being ready to accept opportunities, and scouts trying to find true talent. He mentioned that some A&R agents unfortunately sign artists because of personal ties rather than genuine talent and potential.

Continued...

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