Antonio Neal is the true definition of a triple threat. This singer, songwriter, and producer is now adding successful conference producer to the list. Neal, along with Ahmande Grimes (songwriter/producer) and Brandon Egerton (Music/A&R Consultant) consists of Artistic Soul Entertainment, an urban entertainment company centered around artist development.
After sustaining a severe knee and ankle injury during his college basketball 1994-'95 season, Antonio had to come to the harsh reality that his playing days were over. In an interview with Christianity Today, Neal explains this painful period in his life. "I was extremely depressed, and feeling totally lost," he recalls. "Basketball had been my ticket for almost my whole life, and suddenly it was gone. I was a wreck for a long time before I finally pulled out of it." Soon, his talents as a singer and songwriter began to emerge and Neal released two independent CDs, one in 1999, and a second in 2000. His big break came when one of his projects landed in the hands of TobyMac, Christian Rap Pioneer and co-owner of Gotee Records.
Fast forward to 2008 and Antonio Neal has more than 40 projects to his credit including Darlene McCoy's "Fallen In Love" from the hit soundtrack, "Tyler Perry's Diary of a Mad Black Woman," as well as Antonio's own Days of My Life. Other named artists include The Katinas, Staci Orrico, and Kierra "KiKi" Sheard.
Beyond Potential Urban Music Gathering is self explanatory. The conference is a gathering of aspiring singers/songwriters/producers who desire to go beyond their current potential, in order to break into the exploding Gospel music industry. There are multitudes of people across the U.S. fighting to have their song recorded or land a major record deal. As Neal and his colleagues recognize this fact, they seek to take advantage of it- but not those seeking professional advice. Registration is very inexpensive and the conference's motto reads "No Showcase. No Hype. Just Knowledge."
BPUMG will hit Atlanta, GA this Saturday, August 20, 2008. Conference attendees can expect topics to be covered such as Vocal Care, Music Production, A&R, Songwriting, Publishing, Internet Marketing, Wellness & Nutrition, Radio Promotions, Ringtunes, and many more. Perhaps the most popular topic is "Getting Started" which is the most difficult to do. With artists (in general) going independent (and high tech", it leads many aspiring artists to wonder, "Where do I begin?" EMI Gospel Vice President said this about BPUMG:
Do you want to have success in the music industry? Think you've got the next BIG
song? Think you've got what it takes? If so make an investment in yourself and
plan to attend the BEYOND POTENTIAL MUSIC GATHERING. Knowledge is king, do yourself a favor!" - Larry Blackwell, VP/GM, EMI Gospel
Calenders of events such as BPUMG usually list all of the major cities in the U.S.- excluding Ohio. However, Ohioans will get one day to learn from the best on November 1, 2008 in Dayton, OH. There is also a Chicago date set for October 4th, for those who can't wait for BPUMG to hit the Buckeye State.
To learn more about BPUMG and secure your spot, go to http://www.gobeyondpotential.com/
To learn more about Antonio Neal visit http://www.antonioneal.org/ or www.myspace.com/antonioneal
No comments:
Post a Comment