After spending an awesome weekend with my siblings talking about, well you’ve guessed it, Music. I discovered that the conversation the industry should be having is, what it takes for an artist to become a superstar or to even be heard from the sea of individuals that are all competing for their shot of stardom. I read an article earlier this week in regards to artists using online streaming sites as a tool to gain a ford for fan base of support I like to think that this is a viable tool to use to let everyone know who you are, but it just doesn’t stop there you have to develop a brand. We discovered that there are a lot of awesome artists that are out there, but without a true defined brand you’re just that, out of there.
So, I went out on Twitter and other social media sites to see what was fresh and new on the music scene. I uncovered a very gifted young singer, bassist. Her name is “Nik West”. She hails from Phoenix Arizona; it’s also where she began her musical journey. Her father, an accomplished guitarist, taught Nik to play the rhythm guitar at the tender age of 13 years old. Nik has always been surrounded by musically creativity. The left handed bassist has a unique style of her own. From her colorful Mohawk styled hair piece in the shape of a bass clef, to her high impact stage presence. West has truly made a name for herself; she has worked with some amazing artist. The likes of Eurythmics, Prince, John Mayer and my favorite Marcus Miller. Now, the last time we were excited about a female bass player was when the world was introduced to Meshell Ndegeocello. I strongly believe that we maybe on the cusp of a paradigm shift in the industry when it comes to female musicians gaining media attention and exposure.
I began this conversation on the importance of artist branding themselves and becoming more visible in the industry. Nik has done an awesome job of branding herself. Whether it’s following her Video blogs on YouTube renditions of some of your favorite artists. Nick also managed to become the new face of a new line of basses called Dimension Bass by Fender. This amazing artist spearheaded the Queen of Strings Competition which is a tool to discover and develop young women self-esteem and discipline for the instrument. By providing this and many other platforms she’s managed to formulate a huge following. From her high energy packed performances to her valued work ethic from fellow musicians in the business. One of her most notable branding traits is the colored hair piece in the shape of a bass clef. The other is definitely her amazing voice. Not only does she play well, she can sing. Nick has an amazing voice that sort of matches the funkiest bass strumming note for note. Some have referred to her as the female version of Lenny Kravitz. I advise you guys to check out her latest project and those amazing YouTube videos. This is sure an artist that masters the idea of branding.
Leslie A. Thomas is a lover of all things music follow me on Twitter @lboogie252005!
