New Trends in the Industry!

The music industry is forever changing and always reinventing itself.  Most recently single contract deals are the new thing in the industry. Several artists such as Juwan and Lil B have signed single contract deals with a major label. This deal allows the artist to have a label support in the marketing and distribution for one single, after that it is up to the label to sign the artist to a multiple album deal. A deal like this can go either way, either the artist will make an impact on the music industry with this single or he/she will fail. Contracts such as these are used to see if the artist is capable of generating the attention and money the label will need to support the artist. 

A graduate with masters in Business Entertainment can come into a situation like this with a record label providing that stellar knowledge to prep and/or recruit the right artist for this job. The skills I have learned will give me a jumpstart on the industry in the many different aspects of it. This is a great addition to a label because a new employee with that type of knowledge and helps on experience wouldn’t be so green in the industry.

 Full Sail University has prepared me through classes like negotiations and artist relations to successful handle single contract deals among other deals. The knowledge instilled in you is priceless since; you are put in real life situations that offer occur in the entertainment industry as a whole. As of matter of fact, Sony Music called me today to interview for an intern position with their A&R department. 

The lady whom I spoke with name was Chrystal Fuller, and she confirmed that 85 percent of their staff has an entertainment degree and or several years of entertainment experience. Ms. Fuller also explained that they only accepted internship from students at Music University because they know that they are well involved in trained to address various situations in the entertainment industry. After hearing these from a representative of Sony Music I was assure that my degree from Full Sail has suited me to make an impact in the entertainment industry in general.

I need Money and I NEED it NOW!

Many young entrepreneurs have put their business plan together for a company that will generate a lucrative profit. The issue arises when financing this idea comes into play. Thank goodness, for companies like Opportunity Finance Network also known as OFN who help, “low-wealth people in the U.S with financing their products or services.”  OFN site is full of resources that can help first time business owners structure their business.

For instance, a business owner can learn a few techniques on branding their business or product through a daily newsletter that OFN send out to its members. As a member with OFN you have instant access to industry experts, exclusive financial opportunities. To become a member of OFN you must be an effort to positively develop the community also since OFN operates as a non-profit company whose primary goal is to help in the development of the community. For more information on how to become a member please check out www.opportunityfinance.net. 

Another influential site for my fellow young entrepreneurs is EDA.gov. U.S Economic Development Administration is a federal organization that promotes small business development. EDA is a resourceful tool because they assist you with getting grants for the development of your business.  The great thing about EDA is that it does not require a membership to use the resources. There are a number of funding opportunities on the site that your business has to qualify for but the opportunity is presented to the interested.

Both of these sites provide great resources by offering alternative financing. The advantage is it may be a little easier to get the financing but the disadvantage may be tailoring you business in the matter the investor may want it to be. For example, Economic Development Administration is all about the economy and the community so in order to get financial assistance from them your product and/or service must be a benefit to the community. So, whichever route you choose to take is yours but the opportunities are endless.

Using "the experts," advice to help your Business Plan.

Ok, so now that I have got some advice from "the experts," I plan to use that information in my business plan. How am I going to do this? Well, I'm about to explain it so relax. As you may recall Dave Lavinsky explained in my pervious blog that the executive summary should be the first because it is the first thing the investors will look at. I implemented this step into my business plan by prepping my executive summary in a manner that makes it easy for the investor to follow.

The key factors in doing as stated by Mr. Lavinsky stated is to highlight your business plan so it appeals to the reader to read the entire plan. First I included the basics such as my business names, the location, the product or service I’m selling and the purpose of me doing so. The key element I have used from the advice giving is tailoring the executive summary to the particular investor, meaning if the investor I’m targeting is known for giving money to companies affiliated with children, I will make sure I play on that information in an indirect way. For example, I may have mention in my executive summary how the product I’m selling is preventing the youth from participating in gang violence or etc. 

Furthermore since the financial plan is one of the most important analyses I spent a lot of time with the numbers to make sure everything factored out probably. Using excel I explained the breakdown, from employees salaries to the companies marketing budget. After factoring in all the elements I realized that my company would not break-even within the first three years. The drew a huge red flag, one because the investor wants to know when they will get there money back and secondly because this should that my company was not bring in a lot of revenue.

Eventually, retracting some of the financials that were inputted I was able to overcome the lack of revenue by using the advice giving by David E. Gumpert by increasing my sales and increasing my profit. The expert’s advice is a tool that I will continue to use throughout my business plan. Their advice has helped with the structure and professionalism of my companies business plan.

Helping you help your BUSINESS PLAN!!!!

Today we take a lesson on business plans. For all you young and inspiring entrepreneurs this blog post may give you some insight. Taking advice from expert business plan advisors Jay Turo and Dave Lavinsky, who are founders of the largest banking and strategic advisory firm will help to clarify the key components of a business plan.

 According to Lavinsky, the executive summary is often the first thing an investor will read. Lavinsky goes on to say, “ resources/skills/strategic positioning of the Company's management team make it uniquely qualified to execute the plan,” (Lavinsky 2010) marketing opportunity and profitability must be included in this executive summary to get investors to look at your plan. Mr. Lavinsky also expresses the importance of a financial model in your business plan. 

The financial plan seemingly important for it breaks down the expenses, cost and how the investor will be repaid. This is a critical component because if investor do not see a way to make their money back they are less likely to invest. Another expert who is a staff reporter for the Wall Street Journal and a business writer, David E. Gumpert takes a different approach to the business plan. Gumpert feels that it is important not only to describe your company but how you will make profit. 

According to Gumpert, “it must do more than simply describe your business—it must also sell you and your business and convince the backer you have what it takes to make the business succeed over the long term (Businessweek.com, Jan. 2008).” Mr. Gumpert was quoted saying this in the Buniess week column about selling yourself to reach the investor. 

Also in that article Gumpert states the five key components to developing a successful business plan are an executive summary, the company analysis, the industry analysis, the analysis of customers and the competition. Also, another key component that could be used is a key tool that can be used to sway an investor according to Gumpert, which is the “ passion,” tool. He describes it as a “soft skill,” but says you must be passionate about your project and it must be displayed in your business plan.

2011 NBA FINALS

The 2011 NBA finals was one for the record books. It ended in six games when the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Miami Heat respectively on the Heats home floor.
The ratings for Finals skyrocketed, as it was one of the most anticipated finals in decades. The NBA finals brought out entertainers of all kind, Bird Man a.k.a Lil Wayne's "father," of the young money cash money music group was in attendance for almost every game.
A few unexpected fans such as Lorraine Nicholson.com and Leonardo Dicaprio were seen present at the games on several occasions. The 2011 NBA finals brought together all different genres of entertainment from actors to musicians.

It was quite an excitement to be apart of for marketers, advertisement companies and other social media sources, I’m sure. As I sat down and watch game six in disappointment (yes, I’m a Heat fan) I could not help but think about how much money marketing companies were making.
Of course, everybody made money and it took a lot of work but what a reward it must be to had been one of the three hosting companies in ESPN, ABC and TNT.

All and all I must say I’ am a big sports fan but the more I learn about digital marketing the more business minded I become. It’s just like anything once you learn about it you see it everywhere. For example, remember when you learned a new word you started to notice that everyone was using that word or what about when you buy a new car you see your car everywhere on the streets (shrugs shoulders).

Sometimes I do wonder now that I know more than what I’m suppose to, if these sports finales are rigged to go full length so these “ big wigs,” can make their money. Imagine if the Miami Heat for instance swept the Dallas Mavericks in four consecutive how exciting what that be? I mean personally speaking I would love to see it but lets just be real the longer it last the money is made. It’s all just part of the marketing strategy I guess, what do you think?

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is one of the key elements needed to successfully sell and/or distribute your product. You could have the best product in the world but if no one knows about it, it does you no justice to have it. As an artist manager it is my job to bring awareness to my product (the artist). The Internet is a great tool to gain that attention, whether through social media sites like Face book or Twitter each of the sites can bring attention to your product. Many people think social media outlets are the one way to market your product digitally but this is not the case. You want to optimize your results by using search engine optimization (SEO). This is a way to bring traffic to your website through keywords used in search engines. 

In order for you to bring awareness to your product you must make it popular where others are interested in finding out more about the product and/or service. SEO makes your site visible for others to find. Honestly, I did not know there were so many ways to market using digital means. There are so many ways to market using technology it is amazing. For instance, you can pay a website to feature an ad or your website on there site when someone visits there site. This is called Banner Ad, according to Wikipedia.com it is “ designed to have the user click on it for more information.” 

If you use these and other digital marketing tools simultaneously than you have created a very effective marketing scheme for your product and/or service.

After learning about the various ways of digital marketing I instantly applied to my clients website and my business social accounts. I began to see more traffic come in, in just hours of making the changes. When your website is in the top five search results for that product or service that means you are doing something right. Even if your product or service is horrible it is still visible and the more people see something the more the want to know about it.  There are many sites to help you get started http://www.seo.com is a great site to help you began this process into digital marketing.

References:

http://www.seo.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_marketing 

The Cory Gunz show

Recently, I started watching the Cory Gunz show which is a show exposing the journey he takes to get in the music business. Cory Gunz a rapper from New York recently signed with Young Money has cameras follow him as he does his day-to-day routines from the studio to the office. Many times, when I tune in I often see a dispute between Cory Gunz lawyer, his manager and his father.

The issue normally is over management since all three parties feel they have some sort of a manager role to the rapper. I use the show as a learning tool because it gives real life experiences. For one, it seems to be a conflict of interest with his lawyer who also takes on the role of the “manager,” when he is in charge of Cory Gunz legal matters and his issues an artist. Nick Cannon an actor and entertainment executive takes Cory Gunz under his wing and plays the role of his manager. Cory Gunz father, a former rapper by the name of Peter Gunz also takes on the role of manager for Cory. So you can see where the situation gets sticky. For a young manager like myself the show gives me good advice about how to handle certain situations.

Ultimately the goal for the manager is to handle all business aspects allowing the artist to focus on their craft. The Cory Gunz show gives a behind the scene access and displays the complexity of being in the entertainment industry whether an artist or manager. The fun does not began because you are signed to a label but it begins when every on your team knows their role. MTV.com says,“ The show is an exclusive look at the process needed to be success in the entertainment industry.”

References: Mtv.com

Do it yourself!

Self-distribution is a tool that is used more often today than ever. Today there are many options for music artist, book writers and composers to self publish and distribute their work. Sites like createspace.com are great from up and coming book writers who do not have the money or investors to publish their work. A writer can purchase an ISBN-13 and a UPC code through print on demand services. Through this same service writers are able to order copies of their works upon request. These resources have been around for some time but have improved over the years. Since it is hard to get a record deal to have your music distributed as it is finding a publisher to do a deal for your book self-distribution is a great and inexpensive route to take.

 If you promote yourself through the social media outlets and distribute your works through sites like Amazon and ITunes you can make a great amount of money without spending a lot of money. Nowadays, with the new technology available we are able to get more things fasters and easier than before. If you take out time daily to promote your work and gain a little recognition through your promotion (not just Face book and Twitter) you can come in contact with the right people who may mention your work (music, books, composition) in an article or website, that could put you were you need to be and help your work become mainstream.

Many of the print on demand sites, like Lulu and Infinity are very popular and get heavy internet traffic so you will be in the right hands it’s just about what you do once you get there. As a songwriter it is hard to get a major publisher to pick up my songs but this could be a positive for an unknown writer like myself, being that once picked up by a publisher you instantly lose 50 percent of your profits. But if you become your own publisher you will keep more than half of the profits it will take more work and resources to get that but it is worth it with all the resources the internet provides today. 

Reference: 

filmspecic.com
Youtube.com 

Advice from Entertainment Lawyers: James Hertz

Yesterday, I had the privilege to interview Orlando based entertainment lawyer,

 James Hertz. Hertz who has lengthy experience in law and entertainment participated in a little Q and A about his background as well as some legal advice for my business, a video production company.

Q: How long have you been in the entertainment business

A: 13 plus years

Q: Where did you get your degree?

A: The John Marshall Law School Chicago, IL

Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Intellectual Property (1997)

St. Thomas University School of Law Miami, FL

Juries Doctor (J.D.) (1996)

Woodbury University, Burbank, CA

Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) (Finance) (2000)

University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) (1990)

Q: How can I protect my business from legal issues?

A: Having the proper contracts and legal forms.  Having the proper business entity (LLC).  Protecting intellectual property and goodwill of business through trademark, copyrights.

Q: The company I have is a video production company what advice can you give that will increase the companies chances of success in the industry

A: Do-good work.  Network constantly.  Have lunches with or make introductions to key players in the industry.  Of course marketing is key as well.

Q: As a video production company how can I protect myself from liabilities?

A: See answer to 3.

Q: What legal advice can you give a video production company?

A: See answer to 3.

Q: What methods can the company take to avoid infringement and other illegal issues?

A: See answer to 3.  Also, be aware of inadvertently catching third party trademarks and copyrights in productions.  Make sue you have proper releases and clearances for every production.  Make sure you have proper work for hire agreements.

The advice Hertz gave will help me prevent liabilities and common mistakes made in the entertainment industry. I know I’m on the right track because several things Mr. Hertz has mention I have been taught in my adv. law class. What I have cleared from the interview is that you most always get clearances for others work but to be careful of those who do not have the authority to give you that permission. I want to thank James Hertz for his time and advice that will stay with me forever.

For more information on James Hertz and how to contact him go to: 

http://www.hetzandjones.com/

References:

Hertzandjones.com

Legal Advice from the Expert

Gordan Firemark a lawyer out of California provides a monthly podcast on www.entertainmentlawupdate.com. Whenever I have questions or even need free legal advise about the entertainment industry I flood this site. Although the topics of discussion are random they apply to common topics in different industry of entertainment. In episode eight, Mr. Firemark touched upon trade infringement. Apparently, Google will be releasing a new phone called “Nexus one,” a claim has been dropped from an author who used the name “ Nexus six,” in his published book. The discussion actually opened my eyes to a lot, and at that particular moment I realized people would sue pretty much for anything. Mr. Firemark went on to break down the potential case giving legitimate reasoning for why the plaintiff in the case mostly would not being. 

The term Nexus was only used once in the plaintiff’s book and the cell phone provider is in no way using the term in the same light as used in the book. While Mr. Firemark goes in- depth about the pros and cons he eventually gives his opinion stating the plaintiff had no case. This type of discussion can be applied to my business just as the discussion in episode number 17. In episode 17 Fire mark discussed a case involving potential copyright infringement. This incident is something all music composers should watch for because something that seems so incident and harmless could cause uproar. A young man created a song from tweets that Kayne West tweeted and actually preformed the song on a late night show. Although the young man was never tried in court Firemark makes a valid point when implying a potential case. He explains that if Kanye or Twitter tried to sue the young man could argue fair use and parody. 

He explains why throughout the podcast but cautions the listener to be careful. The young man could argue parody because the content of the song was comical, references random Kayne tweets. He could argue fair use Firemark explains because the attention was not to confuse or tarnish Kayne name or image. The song was created for pure fun and entertainment.  This is why I tune and to get my daily dosage of legal advice because you never know when a situation may occur in the entertainment when some of the podcast you hear may come into play, sense the entertainment industry is filled with con artist. In a final podcast that was my favorite since it relates directly to what I do Firemark brings up the issues in a copyright infringement case that left songwriters with 47.5 million dollars. In a case that involved Sony Canada the songwriter were awarded the millions of dollars after it was found that Sony had reproduced thousands of copies of the writer music without their consent. As a songwriter this is something I will stay aware of because release un-licensed productions can lead to a road of unwanted problems. Firemark explains that licensing and clearance needs to be received before other can use it for profit or any other reason.

References

www.entertainmentlawupdate.com.

thebillablehour.com

OMG,lots of Liabilities!

When starting your own company there are several issues a company can run into. BCB Entertainment (my company) is a video production company that targets unsigned, independent and indie artist of all genres. We create music video along with photography for these artists and distribute it to record labels and other sources. BCB entertainment also has an online site where we upload artist music and the site also allows the artist to download free mix tapes and other music uploaded to the site. Well, a couple years ago back in 2006 Universal Music group sued MySpace for copyright infringement. Since my company provides a similar service I’m sure this is could possibly happen to my company. The main issue in this case was Universal Music Group had not granted MySpace the rights to post the artist signed to that labels music on Myspace for users to download. The key element here is to get permission from the creator so you can publish their songs on your site, if you don’t have the rights to the music. Another legal liability could be royalties over music or video productions. Lets say for example, we (BCB Entertainment) create a concept for a video for an unsigned artist and pitch to record labels and they like it and it becomes a hit. There after the dance used in the video becomes a trademark on TV shows and commercials etc. There could be a debate over who gets the royalties for that dance how much money should be awarded. This is a similar issue that took place with a hit song wrote by songwriters A-Rex. The song entitled “ One Less Lonely Girl,” was featured on Justin Bieber’s debut album. Well apparently the song blew up and the title of the song has been featured on merchandise throughout the country. The songwriters feel they are entitled to the agreed amount of royalties and have taking it court. While the outcome of this case as yet to be decided this is something that can easily happen to BCB Entertainment or any company producing something for someone else for profit. This is why little details in a contract are very important it should always underline every aspect of product or service. Another liability my company could be held liable for is damaged rental property. For instance, while searching the web for relevant articles I came across an article on rap-up.com, which featured a lawsuit against Rapper Nicki Minaj. According to rap-up.com, the rental company that lent Minaj the vehicle is suing here over damage (12,000 to be exact) to the Lamborghini that she drove in a video shot back in 2010.  This is something that can occur therefore all property used from other services need to be treated with delicate care, also a check list needs to be done that way any damaged found on property before usage will not be pinned on the new user. All and all these articles have opened up my eyes to a lot of liability issues that come with the type of business I plan on conducting.

By Brittney. B

References:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/justin-biebers-one-lonely-girl-171888

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/18/technology/18myspace.html

http://www.rap-up.com/2010/06/12/nicki-minaj-sued-over-lamborghini/

The Chris Brown Saga continues

We all have either seen or heard about what went on with Chris Brown and Good Morning America on early Tuesday morning. Well if you have been too busy to care, let me give you a little run down of what transpired. According to sources, like Media-takeout and TMZ, while on GMA Chris Brown was asked questions about an incident that took place over two years ago. That incident in which Chris Brown beat his than girlfriend Rihanna to a bloody bump.  You  may be wondering what occurred this time and if he beat another woman but thats not quite the case. What occurred a day ago on GMA left everyone and their mama feeling like Chris Brown had some serious emotional and anger issues. After award winning journalist, Robin Roberts asked Brown several questions about the domestic dispute that occurred between he and Rihanna Brown calmly answered the question and than reminded everyone to buy his new album out today FAME. The issue is that after doing the interview Brown went on a " violent rage," ( TMZ) that left a window in the studio shattered. Sources are saying Brown will be arrested and persecuted but honestly I don't know how to feel about this incident. Its obvious that Chris Brown has anger management issues but where are the positive in his life letting him no thats not the route to take. Honestly these people get paid major bucks to assist him so why not come to his aid when he needs it the most. After the Rihanna situation Brown has had limited success in the music industry and as of late music fans and the entertainment industry have been very receptive of him. The fact that people see him doing well and continue to bring up his past could be frustrating for any artist, no excuses are being made for Brown granted he should be held accountable for all his actions and he must quickly learn how to control his emotions or his name will forever be involved in something negative. At the end of the day Brown lacks a good support system and a male figure who can show him the steps to not only becoming a man but also how to balance the industry life and his personal life. Whats your take on it? Heres a clip of the interview, feel free to voice your views.

Never Say Never

Last weekend, I was one of many who went and watched the Justin Bieber movie. I was actually surprised by the way the movie was put together. I mean I'm not a Justin Bieber fanatic but I do admire the kid’s talent. Watching the movie opened my eyes to a lot of things, I now know the struggles and adversities he overcame to become who he is today. Not only that, but watching the movie gave me new inspiration to pursue my dreams. Bieber was discovered on Youtube but was over looked because the music industry claimed they did not have a "platform," for him. He eventually hustled is way into the industry and the rest is history. The movie inspired me because it showed me that the award does not always go to the most talent person but to the person who works the hardest. Some of you guys out there may be thinking, now come on Brittney you are an adult talking about a teenybopper. But those of you with that type of mind frame are the same ones who will be in that exact spot next year and years after watching me on your television. The moral of the story is to utilize every opportunity to bring you closer to your destiny. You see by watching Justin Bieber's movie it showed me some steps I can take to reach my goals. It also showed me that there is room for me in the industry but it will not be giving to me. A wise man once told me, you have to go through a lot of No's before you get to that one Yes. Not everybody will like you or except you but if you keep fighting you will find that one person that does. HitFix.com stated in a report that, "Bieber is the first teen idol to rise to superstar prominence so ably aided and abetted by social networking." The power is in your hands with Youtube, Facebook and all the other social networks. Record labels denied Bieber, they said he would not be a great entertainer but "never say never," the social networks are here.


By: Brittney C. Boston


References:


http://www.hitfix.com/blogs/the-beat-goes-on/posts/movie-review-justin-biebers-never-say-never

Negotiating with Carl "Big Cee Jay" Johnson

A sit down with Carl " Big Cee Jay" Johnson.

Recently I had the privilege to meet Carl Johnson a.k.a "Big Cee Jay," at an Orlando music conference. Big Cee Jay who is an industry mogul has worked with many southern artists like Jackie O among others. One thing Big Cee Jay prides himself on is giving back to the community and doing so he allowed me to pick his brain about the negotiating tactics he uses in the entertainment industry. Having numerous years in the entertainment industry specifically in music, Big Cee Jay was able to provide me with essential information that could help me in my future negotiating deals in the entertainment industry. I opened up the discussion by asking Big Cee Jay how he used his BATNA when negotiating a contract for an artist.

Big Cee Jay replied with,

“Most of the time if its anything dealing with a label I bring in a entertainment lawyer to do the negotiating. If it’s something dealing with another artist or endorsements I will step in and do the negotiating myself. Dealing with a label can be tricky and if you don’t speak their language everyday you can make some huge mistake. It’s best to bring in someone that works with those terms every day. Now dealing with features for your artist and working on endorsement is something a manager does every day. If you know your client's worth and have done your research you will do well in a negotiation.

 I followed up that question by asking Big Cee Jay how did his "Status" play a role in his negotiations, Big Cee Jay stated,

“ With me most people know I’m fair but I want the best for my client. Before I sit down to do any negotiating I do my research so they know they can’t tell me anything. Make it known that you don’t BS and people will respect you at the table. (most people).”

 Lastly, I asked Big Cee Jay how he separated the people from the problem when negotiating? Big Cee Jay’s response was,

“This is easy never make it personal keep it all business.”

So, there you have it some of the best advice you can get from an entertainment representative and it did not cost you anything. For more information on contacting Big Cee Jay visit his website at http://stepoutoflinepromotion.net/ or follow him on twitter at www.twitter.com/BigCeeJay.

Interview by Brittney Boston ( BCB entertainment)

Making your MONEY work for you!

If your parents were anything like mine than you were advise to go to school and get a college degree in order to get a “ good job,” to become financially stable in this economy. Pretty much the same tale that Robert Kiyosaki preaches in his book entitled, Rich Dad Poor Dad. The thing about going to school is it wastes so much time but it can pay off. Most likely a college graduate will end up with and average job making between 40,000 to 60,000 dollars a year. There are a few jobs that at first hand you wouldn’t think paid as much but they actually do and with or without a college some of the jobs are worth the time and effort. Recently, a report was gathered by CNBC listing the top jobs that pay $100 or more per hour. According to CNBC, the list goes as following: Under Water Welder $900-1200 hr; Anesthesiologist $101.80 and hr; Commercial Pilot averaging $120.00 hr; Tattoo Artist $130 hr.; Arbitrator $130 hr.; Orthodontists $99.13 hr.; Freelance photographers $100 hr.; Interior Designer $100 hr.; “Part” Model $ 100 hr.; Life Coach $100-$150 hr.; Message Therapists (private) $100 hr; Political Speechwriter $100 hr. Now, some of these jobs do not require a college degree, which goes to show you can be financially wealthy in this world without an education. But, school is ultimately the route to take to gain the tools necessary to flourish in many careers although some odd jobs such as the ones listed above can help you stay afloat with the economy and above average. Sometimes the award is giving to the person with the most experiences, who knew a “ Part Model” could make more than 20.00 hr, but people are willing to pay a great amount for things that are hard to come by such as a hand model in this case. Many of these jobs for instance, like an Under Water Welder or a Commercial Pilot pay a price for the job they perform regardless of the pay. According to CNBC, pilots spend on average 360 hours away from home, which could be straining on a marriage. Also, being an Under Water Welder is a very dangerous job that requires long hours. There will always be cons and pros but just know that in order to take a career with one of these $100.00 an hr jobs and live comfortably something must be sacrificed.

By: Brittney Boston

Life after Death

The trial for Michael Jackson’s death has begun. As, you may know by now Dr. Conrad Murray is on trial facing charges of involuntary manslaughter. Murray was accused of giving Michael Jackson the lethal dosage that killed him. According to Yahoo music, the preliminary trial began on January 4, 2011 were a coroner investigator took the stand testifying about the 12 bottles of anesthetics he found in Jackson’s bedroom. Jackson’s doctor Murray took the stand and pleaded not guilty, his defense is that Michael Jackson killed himself. A little light surrounding the trial is the new game Xbox and Nintendo has distributed entitled Michael Jackson experience where user can portray Michael’s best moves. The game is a dance a-long heart throbbing replica of Michael Jackson performances. Since Michaels passing several sources such as johnhohnsaidit.com among others are reporting that Michael Jackson is worth more dead than alive. With Sony set to release up to ten new albums for Jackson in the next several years and other items like Jackson Mansion being put up for sale, Jackson is set to rank up billions of dollars. This of course doesn’t make it any easier for Jackson parents Katherine and Joe who both stood by and watched prosecutor cross- examine alleged murder of their son Dr. Conrad Murray. From the looks of things this will be a long drawn out trial that hopefully end with justice being served. Michael legacy will forever live on just as Elvis and other great musicians. His money will also forever live on which is evident with all the new productions and monetary things of value he has left behind and that people are creating. The trial alone is also set to create great financial splurges for the Jackson pioneer with potential book deals, movies, media coverage and etc.   

By: Brittney Boston