How I ended up on the Gibson Guitar bus

When I returned to work at Gibson Guitar Corporation in 2004 (I was previously the Executive Assistant to the CEO), my formal title was- Marketing Specialist. It was actually my most fun job ever, because I wore many hats. I worked on the first Guitartown project, worked in events, assisted with the Holiday TV Campaign, etc. I ended up on the side of the bus because while I was sitting in a marketing meeting discussing possible models for the bus, I noticed that the "higher ups" did not mention having any "people of color". (I do not think it was intentional) When I mentioned it, one of the staff asked me to consider being a model. After thinking about it for a while, I decided to go through with it, and now I am really happy I did. Even though you can't see my face, when I see the picture I'm reminded of the significant part I played in the project (I'm the only minority featured on the bus)and it reassures me that I am able to "make waves" when I put my heart and mind into it.

Its funny because I was feeling a little misguided earlier today, and I happened to see a quick clip of the bus in a promo video. All the good memories came flooding back and I wanted to share my story with you because I don't feel like I share enough about what I did previously in the music industry.

I didn't just appear out of nowhere, I just decided in 2007 to shift my focus toward being an artist. So far, I have accomplished a lot in a short time, I have two songs on an independent film (Love Bones by Deri Tyton) and I have my album, "Society's View". I am very much a work in progress yet I'm not new to the industry at all (12 years and counting!), and I don't plan on going anywhere, anytime soon!

Be motivated everyone! Where you've been is only the beginning! It only gets better! Be blessed!

My Official Merchandise Page

www.indityton.spreadshirt.com

Please check it out when you get a chance and let me know what you think. Thanks!

The Atlanta Powerpreneur Series

Last night I attended THE ATLANTA POWERPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT SERIES, created by marketing and branding Guru, Melissa Dawn Johnson, in conjunction with Atlanta Mayor, Kasim Reed's Office. Although I arrived late...I was able to hear some great advice from successful entreprenuers in Atlanta. Below is the information. There also an event today, so if you are able, I definitely encourage to come out and support the event!

A Review of my CD

I know, I know, I haven't written in my blog all year, but I promise that it will change very soon.

Good news! I have been networking more and I will be performing at various venue's soon (Stay tuned).

Below is a review from a gentleman that purchased my CD from yesterday at a business conference...

"Hey there Indi. I just wanted to write you and let you know how much I enjoyed meeting and talking to you. I really enjoyed the conversation and the company at the seminar. You're such a humble young lady and you have such a powerful talent. Of course as soon as I got to my car I popped your CD in the player and WOW. I was COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY. Your talent IS SIMPLY AMAZING. I must have played DIFFERENT PLACES at least FIVE TIMES on my way home. However, ALL OF THE CD IS GOOD. It's a great CD. I can't wait to say "I KNEW HER WHEN." You're definitely A STAR ON THE RISE and the world is going to be happy that you came. You're simply amazing. Talk about NOT SEEING SOMEONE COMING. It's amazing HOW GOD CAN GIVE SOMEONE A HUGE TALENT and that person still be so DOWN TO EARTH. Your husband and family must be really proud of you. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know HOW IMPRESSED I WAS WITH YOU. I hope we get the chance to work together someday. I can see us on the same stage. I'm sure that if I ever get the chance I'll be telling the world about the wonderful young singer that I know who's on the rise and that everyone should know. Anyway Indi, take care and God bless. By the way I also had the chance to view some of your husbands work. You guys are a soon to be power couple. He's doing really good work also. I wish you both nothing but the best. Keep reaching HIGHER and TRYING TO GRAB MORE."



David Roussell
Author/Motivational Speaker/Goal Achievement Expert

www.davidroussell.com

Moving Forward-Systematically

Today, I spent the day uploading my video (finally) to my own Youtube page. When you are an independent artist, you have to wear SO MANY hats. Family, I have to be honest with you...I'm really trying to take it one day at a time. I know that if I put one foot in front of the other, and work really hard at getting everything together properly...everything will be fine.

The pink sneaker's designed by the one and only, Mr. Kanye West, helped me establish mindset for this post. In any "career game", you have to be innovative, frugal as possible (without actually being/looking cheap :) ) and it is very important for you to diversify (without spreading yourself too thin).

Instead of leading my musical career decisions based on emotion and fear, In 2011, I am going to try systematically strategic. Meaning that, I am going to set up certain strategies and execute them in very systematic (yet creative) ways.

I'm going to keep us all in my prayers :)

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season!!

It's time to expand my territory!

Jabez prayed to the God of Israel,"Oh that Thou would bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast [territory], and that Thine hand might be with me, and that Thou would keep me from evil, that it may not be to my sorrow!' And God granted him that which he requested." 1 Chron 4:10

I'm at a point in my life where I find myself feeling a little anxious. Not because things aren't going well, but because I feel like I have all the tools I need to succeed...if only I had a team that worked with me on a daily basis to help promote my music and create more opportunities.

You may not know this, but I've been involved in the music/entertainment industry since 1999, and have of course accumulated lots of great contacts. The funny thing about that is that since I stepped into the role of "artist" about four years ago, I find myself being very reluctant to contact any of those great contacts to ask for assistance with my personal career.

Well, a couple days ago, I decided to challenge myself, and just start voicing my needs to the universe. I do need to be out in the public more performing, I do need to get a promotion team together, I do need help with creating my overall "brand" and if I know some of the best in the "business", why not call on them? I'm not asking for a hand out, actually I'm looking for what my good friend, Derek "Prettyboy" Dow, would say..."a hand up" :) And if they are too busy...hopefully they can connect me to another professional that can be genuine and really assist me.

So, today, once again, I'm sending out my own prayer into the universe...Lord, please expand my territory, please shield me from evil, please let all my actions to be positive, peaceful, and productive...Amen!

I hope this post inspires not only me but you as well!! Love you all...Indi