Artist Development

Hello All!

This blog is for my fellow aspiring artists...and even those who are aspirants of other dreams and goals...

I'm watching "Jackson 5: The American Dream" - one of my favorite television mini-series of all time. Basically, it chronicles the story of how the Jackson 5...and Michael Jackson rose to stardom from their humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana. There are so many aspects of this story that inspire me. Joe Jackson - though not always a popular figure in music history -  is a true living example of someone who writes out a vision, then carries out the plan. Inspired by his own failed musical aspirations when he was younger, he saw the budding talent of his children and RAN with it. He planted, cultivated, watered, groomed and trained these young men into superstars. It was a never-ending focus...a 24 hr/day, 365 day/year commitment. It did not come without it's consequences, but the bigger picture is something we can all reflect on. How many of us would be more successful if we applied that same discipline to our own endeavors?

Another aspect of that story that inspires me is the early operations of Motown Records. They were THE powerhouse in black music. Not only did Berry Gordy and his team have an eye for true talent, but he executed a successful formula. He found raw talent, and much like Joe Jackson, planted, watered, groomed and trained these gifted young men and women into superstars. Many of the stars we were introduced to by early Motown are still relevant in our minds today because of this formula. Sadly, this may not be true for many of today's recording artists.

The art of artist development is missing in today's music industry. Major labels are, unfortunately, not as concerned with finding true talent as they are someone with a firm and fit body, massive sex appeal and a gimmick.  Do I think all of these elements can be instrumental in the success of today's music artist - possibly. But what happened to talent first, package next? What happened to the label making a genuine investment in the artist...media training, vocal coaching, image development, good songwriting and mentoring? Let's be real here...with science and technology, you can take the most unattractive, yet talented singer and make her into a total package. But such is not the case...and no longer the focus, thank to Autotune.

Even worse, many of today's artist aren't cut from the same cloth of discipline as the Jacksons or Beyonce and don't realize the importance of laying the foundation and exercising the discipline that will be required for their future success.  The industry is filled with several overnight sensations who don't recognize that they are victimizing their future by being ill prepared. Instead, they are enticed by empty promises in their ears, the hype of money, fame and the quick rise to stardom. All this - but they have no longevity; years from now, we won't remember their name.  As an artist, this is sad and heartbreaking...but a teachable moment.

True artist development not only develops the superstars of today, but the icons of tomorrow.  The Jackson / Motown formula is relevant, and it starts immediately after recognition that one wants to be a major recording artist.  Its what is done BEFORE the fame that determines the integrity of one's future in fame.  Artists must make sure they are fully educated, prepared and equipped for success. Read books, practice, market yourselves, get training...GRIND! Make sure that when you catch the eye of the majors, you are not only equipped with talent, but the knowledge and assurance of what will make YOU successful. YOU set the standard ...not the other way around. 

See you at the top!

Get Up, Get Out and Get Something

Give the world the best that you have, and the best will come back to you.  - Madeline Bridges
Greetings All!

Since this is my first completely new post in a while, allow me to say "Happy New Year". I hope all of you are doing well and headed in the direction of all your hopes and dreams. I know I am...

I want to thank ALL of you who have contacted me publicly and privately to congratulate me on my weight loss. It's definitely been a long and challenging journey and I am by no means done. Nonetheless, I can honestly say that I feel SO much healthier and happier. Opportunities that once seemed lifetimes away are now within my reach (both physical, emotionally and psychologically). I'm more motivated to tackle other challenges in my life and break down those barriers as well. And the fact that some of you have been inspired by MY story is overwhelming. I'm proud to be that catalyst and look forward to hearing more about your success as I share mine with you.

Its amazing how much the subtle changes in your life can make a grand difference.  I have to admit that I'm one of the world's worst procrastinators. I have great plans in my mind, but I don't always put them into action as quickly as I should. However, that bad habit / mindset has made a tremendous impact on my life. health and career progress – or the lack thereof. Now that I can look at my life through clearer glasses, I realize I need to change that...NOW!

Last week, I made a commitment to handle my business more efficiently. If something came across my desk, email, phone or head and the sum of its benefits proved valuable for myself, my career, or those I care about around me, I would act on it immediately. I would respond to emails more rapidly, make important phone calls more quickly and cross some of these never-ending "to dos" off my checklist. If there is something that is becoming a burden on me, I will immediately assess it, address it and fix it.

My execution wasn't flawless, but by placing some eggs in a few different baskets, I made some really big steps in a more promising, inspiring and profitable direction. Saturday alone, I wrote and recorded a song in the amount of time it normally takes me to convince myself out of the bed and make morning breakfast. There is nothing more gratifying than setting a goal, actually making steps to reach that goal and accomplishing that goal. I am proud of myself and what lies ahead because of the actions I executed last week. There are some great business opportunities and relationships in the works that I look forward to sharing more about with all you later. BIG things ahead...stay tuned!

Love,
Tiffany Moníque

Make That Change

Hey Y’all!!!

It’s been a while so I wanted to stop by and say hello. I hope by now everyone has had a chance to see my new video Nemesis. If not, make sure you check out my video at the bottom of this post. Once you’ve viewed it, please leave a comment to tell me what you think.

This past Thursday, I was driving my son to school when I saw a young lady trying to make her way across the street. She was trying to make it across before the light turned green, but was quite heavy (obese) and couldn’t make her way as quickly as I’m sure she’d like. By the time she finally made it across, she was so out of breath that she had to hold on to a light post to gather her composure. The saddest part is that the young lady couldn’t have been anymore than 20 years old. A few moments later after dropping my son off, I went to the local pharmacy to pick up a few items. When I got to the cash register, the attendant tried to coerce me to take advantage of their sale: “Buy 3 Kit Kat bars and get a free pill box”. Hmmm? Anyone ever stop think that maybe if I weren’t wolfing down three Kit Kat bars, I wouldn’t need the pills that go in the box???

All of this saddened me.There is no reason a 16 to 20-year-old shouldn’t be able to run around the block…let alone across the street. I remember when I was around that age,  I couldn’t put on weight to save my life! (we see that changed! – lol). But yes, contrary to what many of you who only learned of me recently, I was a tiny little thing. I’ll post the pictures to prove it.  Over the years, I , like so many others became lazy with my eating habits and physical activity. I took food for granted and was only concerned with how good it tasted. But family experiences would later show me the unfortunate effects of  not being mindful of your weight and health early on. Both of my maternal grandparents – though not considerably overweight, died from complications of Type 2 Diabetes as a result of poor eating habits when they were younger. That harsh reality was the beginning of my recognition that I must plant the seeds of my future TODAY.

I’ve lost approximately 40lbs since the Winter of 2008 simply by eliminating junk foods. Literally – I did nothing more than that and experienced a dramatic change. And after my experiences on Thursday, I’m inspired to take it a step further and recommit to my efforts of taking off a few more pounds. Don’t get me wrong – I LOVE the curvier, grown woman version of present me; I look and feel like a woman. But in holding on to these curves, I must ensure that they aren’t blocking the path to optimal health. In addition to being a woman, I am a daughter, sister, mother and artist who must remain healthy not only for my sake, but for the sake of those who love and depend on me! My goal is to hear the doctor say “All’s well and looks great – keep up the good work”. Until then, the journey continues…and I won’t resign!

Much Love & Light!

The Transformation

The "Original" Me - 1995

At my "Max" - Winter 2008

July 2010

On set of "Nemesis" - July 2010

On set of "Nemesis" - July 2010

January 2011 - Down 75+ lbs from Winter 2008 pic above