Vegas Rock Confidential: From Bay Area Beginnings To The Heat Of L.A.To The Magnetic Pull of Las Vegas — Getting To Know Jamey Pacheco.

Vegas Rock Confidential: From Bay Area Beginnings To The Heat Of L.A.To The Magnetic Pull of Las Vegas — Getting to Know Jamey Pacheco.

Jamey Pacheco’s story kicks in when he was just fourteen years old. When he first sat down behind a drum kit, fired up by Kiss and Aerosmith — pure gasoline for a kid already wired for rhythm. 

From there he charged straight into the Bay Area trenches, landing his first real gig with Candy, alongside Derek Davis and Robb Reid, the core that would eventually ignite Babylon A.D. He hammered stages that every West Coast rocker knows by heart—The Stone in San Francisco, Keystone Palo Alto, Keystone Berkeley, Niles Station—sweaty, loud rooms where reputations were earned one blistering set at a time. Pacheco didn’t just play the circuit; he helped build it, co‑founding The Persuaders, the band that evolved into Babylon A.D. and carried him into the national spotlight. By the time MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball came calling during the Arista Records era, he was already a seasoned street‑tough drummer with the chops, the attitude, and the history to back it up!

Jamey Pacheco slammed into the Babylon A.D. lineup right from the jump, holding down the drum throne from 1987 to 1993 as the band tore through the hard‑rock trenches. After that first blazing run, he stepped back from the road to earn his degree in Graphic Design between 1993 and 1999, sharpening a whole new creative skill set. Then the story kicked back into overdrive — Pacheco reunited with Babylon A.D. in 1999 and stayed behind the kit all the way through 2019, powering a twenty‑year second chapter that most bands only dream about. What a run!

Jamey Pacheco pushed into a new chapter in 2019, diving headfirst into tribute projects — most notably the high‑energy of Duran Duran Duran (D3). His tribute‑band era has taken him everywhere from Yoshi’s Oakland to Crystal Bay Casino in Lake Tahoe, the Firehouse Arts Center, and even the Rockstar Bar in Las Vegas, proving he can flip from hard‑rock grit to new‑wave precision without dropping a shred of swagger!

Today, after 40+ years in the business, Pacheco remains a touring drummer, recording artist, visual designer, and session player — still chasing the next loud night, still swinging sticks like they’re built for battle.

Jamey isn’t just keeping Duran D3 sharp for the road — he’s building new soundscapes with his musical partner in life, Ronnie Wagner, laying down fresh tracks together inside the D3 lineup. On top of that, Ronnie’s own project, Passion Nouveau, gives them another creative lane to explore, blending styles and ideas while Jamey shifts effortlessly between a hard‑rock punch and a new sleek & modern groove!

Together in life and locked in the same musical orbit, Jamey and Ronnie are a powerhouse duo with no ceiling in sight. Two seasoned artists pushing each other higher, chasing new sounds, new stages, and whatever wild horizon comes next — the musical sky’s wide open for them both!

Gary England

To learn more about Jamey, Ronnie, D3-Duran Duran Duran, Babylon A.D., and Passion Nouveau, check the links below.

Jamey Pacheco on Facebook

Jamey Pacheco Official Website

JAMES PACHECO | SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ronnie Wagner on Facebook

Ronnie Wagner Official Website

Duran Duran Duran (D3) on Facebook

Duran D3 Tribute Official Website

Babylon A.D. - Music, Official Site, Band, Music

Passion Nouveau Official Website

Today's Vegas Rock Confidential: His Story Reads Like A Rock Documentary - Getting To Know Les Warner

Welcome to Vegas Rock Confidential, my series where I sit down with some of the most compelling rock‑star musicians from yesterday, today, and tomorrow!

In each conversation, I dive into their past, explore where they are now, and get a glimpse into what the future holds for these legends who continue to keep the beat alive in the neon glow of Las Vegas!

Today's Vegas Rock Confidential - Getting to know Les Warner, whose story reads like a rock documentary!

From London clubs to global tours, to The Cult’s explosive rise, to performances with Montrose and sessions with Peter Green. Today he’s settled in Las Vegas, where he remains one of the city’s busiest musicians, a studio warrior and live‑show sparkplug. I got to sit down with Les to talk about his past, what drives him today in the local Las Vegas Music Scene. And what the future may hold!

How did Les get introduced to the music world?

Growing up in London, the spark hit Les early thanks to the boys who lived upstairs—they were musicians, always rehearsing, always making noise, and that energy pulled Les straight toward the drums. His dad helped seal the deal every Sunday when he’d come home with a cardboard box filled with 45‑rpm records and candy. Between the upstairs jams and that weekly treasure chest of music, it didn’t take long before Les knew this wasn’t just a childhood fascination. Music was going to be his life!

The Early Years.

Back in the early ’70s, the London pub circuit was a nonstop parade of R&B and blues bands, all hammering out shuffles that could shake the floorboards loose. Les hooked up with Johnny Marrs and The Seven Sun, and those gigs were where his groove was born. Night after night of blues and shuffle playing hot-wired that feel into Les, which is still the foundation of how he plays today!

Under The Spotlights.

Les Warner didn’t join The Cult so much as he crashed into their world like a drum‑fueled lightning bolt. London clubs were his proving ground—sweaty rooms, loud amps, and nights where the only thing that mattered was whether the band could still stand after the encore! That raw, street‑hardened energy caught The Cult’s attention in the mid‑’80s, and suddenly Warner was behind the kit for a band about to explode into global fame!

On Electric, he didn’t just keep time—he defined it! His drumming was the steel spine of that music work: sharp, muscular, and unapologetically loud. Those thunderous grooves helped turn Electric into one of rock’s most iconic sonic pivots, and Warner’s fingerprints are all over its swagger!

Les Warner’s success isn’t some mystery; it’s the product of a relentless, full‑throttle drive to be the best musician in the room, every room, every night!

Les has carried that same rock‑and‑roll fire through every chapter of his career. Back in the mid‑’80s—around 1986—he flew into Dublin and dove straight into the studio with The Waterboys, hammering out those unmistakable drum tracks that only he could deliver. Decades later, those long‑lost tapes resurfaced, and the band used Warner’s original sessions in their recent Waterboys release, proving that his rhythm still hits just as hard today!

Back To My Story...

Les Warner's New Gig Home.

Eventually, Les traded London fog for Las Vegas neon, settling into a city that never sleeps and never stops making music. Las Vegas fit him perfectly! Endless stages, endless bands, endless chances to plug in and play. Today he’s busier than ever: studio work, laying drum tracks for artists across the map, and even throwing down bass when the moment calls for it. His professional recording studio in LV has become a go‑to spot for bands who want that unmistakable Les Warner punch!

And if you want to see the man in full rock‑and‑roll flight, you’re in luck!

Event Information & Tickets

 Later this month on Friday, August 28th at 9:30pm, Les hits the Orleans Showroom, banging skins for Petty And The Heartshakers, 

{My Take}

And through it all, Les Warner keeps doing what he’s always done—hit harder, play louder, and chase the next great moment. His story isn’t a nostalgia act; it’s a living, breathing rock‑and‑roll engine that refuses to idle. Whether he’s behind the kit, laying down bass, or shaping tracks in his Las Vegas studio, Les is still proving that passion doesn’t fade—it just finds bigger stages and brighter lights. Catch him while he’s in town, because the beat never stops for a drummer who was born to keep the world in rhythm!

Gary England

For info, booking, or to tap into Les’s many musical talents, hit him up at http://Leswarner.com.

Phone (USA) 702.639-7715

Skype: lez.warner1

Les Warner on Facebook

Les Warner on Instagram

Les Warner YouTube Channel

Les Warner Session Drummer 

Eyes In The Crowd: A Great White Night At Count’s Vamp’d LV

A full year later, Count's Vamp’d still finds its way into nearly every music conversation in this town. 

In your mind, what was it about Count's Vamp'd that made it unforgettable?

What were your memories of the club?

To get the ball rolling, I’ll kick things off with one of my favorite memories from Count’s place. This one happened right after catching a Great White concert at the Westgate Showroom.

When the show wrapped, a group of us made the natural migration, straight to Vamp’d. When I arrived, the place was packed wall‑to‑wall. I was standing in that sweet spot between the backstage door to the green room and the VIP area, soaking in the music that was happening onstage, when I suddenly felt that unmistakable sensation… like someone had eyes on me.

I scanned the crowd, checking to see if a friend was trying to wave me down. Then I slowly turned toward the VIP section, and there he was. Brett Carlisle, lead singer of Great White, just a few feet away, grinning. We both lit up. I asked if he wanted to check out the historic green room backstage, and to talk about his life as a rock star. We made our way backstage. Brett remembered the article I wrote about his debut with Great White the year before at the Cannery in North Las Vegas. Brett took his time absorbing every bit of nostalgia on the historic walls! We talked about his whirlwind year with the band, snapped a few photos, and then headed back out—him to enjoy the music, me to get back behind the lens. One of those moments you don’t forget.

Pretty cool memory.

What’s one of your best memories of Vamp’d?

I know you’ve got plenty.

(Comments Welcomed)

Gary England

Count's Vamp'd

Brett Carlisle

Great White Band

Kenny Youngar: Texas Powerhouse Drummer Whose Secret Is In His Sticks

 "It's All In The Sticks"

~Kenny Youngar~

Dallas‑based Kenny Youngar, powerhouse drummer for the band Messer, has a simple philosophy about staying at the top of his game: it’s all in the sticks. Youngar swears by Solobeat drumsticks, especially his own Kenny Youngar Signature Texas Edition brand — a grip‑enhanced Oak 5B built for durability, balance, and the kind of controlled aggression that defines his flamboyant style!

Whether he’s driving Messer’s high‑energy live shows or laying down precision tracks in the studio, Kenny’s signature sticks have become an extension of his identity behind the kit, proving that the right tools in the right hands can make all the difference!

Order yours today on: messerband.com

Gary England

Las Vegas Drum Show - March 29, 2026

Todd Kerns Kiss-Mas Unplugged: Holiday Rock With Heart Where KISS Riffs Meet Las Vegas Community Giving For Our Four-Legged Friends

Super Rocker Todd Kerns brings his Kiss-Mas Unplugged celebration to the Hard Rock Cafe on the Las Vegas Strip on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. What could be more festive than a free holiday rock concert event with a world-famous rock star musician, with a charitable twist?

Kiss-Mas Unplugged Information

Canadian rocker Todd Kerns, best known as bassist and vocalist for Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators, returns to Las Vegas with his Kiss-Mas Unplugged show. This special performance blends acoustic renditions of KISS classics, Kerns’ own original songs, timeless rock covers, and a few festive holiday tunes to set the Christmas season mood.

Time & Venue

• Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025

• Time: 8:00 p.m. PST

• Location: Hard Rock Cafe (Restaurant) Las Vegas Strip, 3771 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV. (Parking Next Door)

• All Ages Welcome 

Admission is free with a donation of one unopened, unexpired package of cat or dog food. All contributions will benefit the Las Vegas (Nevada) SPCA Pantry, helping local families keep their pets fed and cared for during the holiday season. 

{My Take}

Whether you love KISS music, are a die-hard Todd Kerns fan, or just someone who loves rocking out, Kiss-Mas Unplugged promises to be a night of acoustic KISS anthems, holiday spirit, and heartwarming generosity. 

It’s Vegas loud, Vegas proud, and Vegas with a caring heart, because when the amps go acoustic and the crowd brings the kibble Bits, even the pets get an encore!

GE

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #TheCanadianPress #SPCA 

Ace Frehley: The Pulse Behind the Paint

Yesterday, the world lost Ace Frehley!

My pop art creation, along with what I said on Facebook this morning, pretty much says it all for me.

{My Facebook Post From this morning}

(We) Will Never Forget!

I followed these four amazing music artists, Rock Stars, throughout my media career. It's kind a' like we grew up together. These four amazing people are a big part of why I'm still covering music in my 70's. Yes, you'll always live inside of me #Ace #Ozzy #Tom #Eddie #popart #caricature #painting

{More of my thoughts}

Ace Frehley, known as "The Spaceman," was more than just the original lead guitarist of KISS, he was a cosmic force who electrified rock music with his raw talent, rebellious spirit, and otherworldly persona. Fans connected deeply with his unfiltered authenticity, blistering solos, and the sense of mystery he brought to the stage. 

As a founding member of one of rock’s most iconic bands, Ace Frehley helped shape the sound and spectacle of an era, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike. His legacy is etched into the DNA of rock history, and his passing leaves a void that reverberates far beyond the music world!

I (we) will never forget you, Ace!

GE

Ace Frehley 

KISS

The Music Visions Of Mitch Perry

 In Rock guitar circles, Mitch Perry's name commands Respect! Over the course of his career, he’s built a reputation as one of the most versatile and passionate players in the industry, having shared the stage and studio with legends such as The Edgar Winter Group, Lita Ford, MSG, and Cher. His playing combines fire and finesse, blistering when it needs to be yet always rooted in feel and in passion. For years, Mitch Perry has been the go-to guitarist who can elevate any project, regardless of its style or setting.

But there came a point when he wanted more than to stand beside the greats; he wanted to carve out his own lane and create music that fully expressed his vision. That’s when the Mitch Perry Group came to life. Bringing together a powerhouse lineup of seasoned musicians, the band became a vehicle for Mitch to craft the kind of rock music he had always loved: soulful, blues-inspired, guitar-driven, and filled with genuine emotion.

The group’s debut album, Music Box, is the result of that vision. More than just a collection of songs, it’s a statement of identity, an album born from decades of experience, shaped by the chemistry of the band, and recorded with the kind of authenticity that only comes from musicians playing together in the room. The making of Music Box was less about overproduction and more about capturing real energy, and it shows. Every track carries the grit, soul, and passion of artists who live and breathe rock and roll. 

The music visions of Mitch Perry!

Standout Tracks on Music Box

What makes Music Box shine is not just Mitch Perry’s virtuosity on the guitar, but how the entire album blends musicianship with emotion. Each track carries its own personality, and together they paint a complete picture of the Mitch Perry Group’s sound. All songs were written, performed, and produced by Mitch himself.

“Music Box” – The title track is where the band’s chemistry is on full display. It’s layered, dynamic, and perfectly balanced between punchy riffs and melodic passages. This song feels like the heart of the album, a showcase not just of Mitch’s guitar work, but of the Mitch Perry Group as a cohesive unit, playing with both precision and passion. To View "Music Box" Video Teaser  

"Music Box" On Spotify   "Music Box" On Discogs   "Music Box" On SoundCloud

“Wasted Time” – Bluesy, soulful, and heartfelt, “Wasted Time” slows things down and gives the band room to stretch. Mitch’s guitar lines here are as emotional as they are technical, weaving around the vocals in a way that almost feels like a conversation. It’s one of those tracks that sticks with you long after the final note fades. To View "Wasted Time" Video

“Believe” – This song sets the tone with a mix of uplifting energy and raw power. It’s a track that captures Mitch Perry’s ability to write music that’s both melodic and driving. The guitar work here is crisp and soaring, but what really makes it special is the message, one of hope and perseverance, themes that feel especially relevant today. To View "Believe" Video

Other highlights include “Saint Valentine”, with its infectious groove and classic rock swagger, and “In the Morning”, a song that shows the group’s ability to blend softer textures with big, powerful choruses. Tracks like these prove that Music Box isn’t just about great guitar playing; it’s about the songwriting and storytelling that Mitch Perry has brought to the music industry for years!

Altogether, the album feels like a journey, moving from high-energy rockers to introspective ballads, all tied together by the band’s undeniable musicianship. 

{My Take}

Music Box is more than just an album; it’s a statement from Mitch Perry whose artistry has only grown deeper with time. In rock guitar circles, Mitch Perry’s name commands respect, but with the Mitch Perry Group, he proves that great music is about more than virtuosity; it’s about heart, chemistry, and songs that truly connect. For fans who crave authentic, guitar-driven rock with soul, Music Box is a must-listen. Give it a spin, and experience why Mitch Perry and his group are keeping the spirit of timeless rock and roll alive!

Yes, these are the music visions from the incomparable Mitch Perry!

GE - Gary England

Mitch Perry Official Website

About The Mitch Perry Group 

Mitch Perry Facebook

Mitch Perry Instagram

Mitch Perry Group YouTube Channel

Yungblud: My Choice For The Next Big Thing In Rock!

 I've been around music since taking piano lessons at age five. Playing in my school's jazz and marching bands, and even a few rock bands or two. I became a nationally read sports and entertainment (music) ghostwriter while I was still in high school (1968). So, I can honestly say that a lot of my life has revolved around music and the music industry. With my longevity around music, I've seen a ton of really good music artists come and go.

Recently, I was asked who I thought was going to take the lead in the rock scene. 

Here's my clear-cut answer.

Every once in a while, an artist comes along who feels like the spark the rock world has been waiting for. For me, that spark is Yungblud (born Dominic Richard Harrison). Hailing from Doncaster, England, Yungblud grew up surrounded by music; his father repaired guitars, and his grandfather played with T. Rex, so rock is in his blood. From the beginning, Yungblud has carried himself with the energy and defiance of punk legends while giving his sound a modern edge that connects deeply with today’s generation.

Since breaking through in 2017, Yungblud has built a reputation for electrifying live performances and a fearless approach to songwriting. His music blends punk, glam rock, pop, and hip-hop influences, but what sets him apart is his honesty. He doesn’t shy away from topics like mental health, identity, and belonging, issues that resonate strongly with fans who feel unseen in mainstream culture.

What makes me believe Yungblud is the next big thing in rock isn’t just his style or sound, it’s his authenticity! He represents the same rebellious spirit that once made artists like Bowie, Nirvana, and Green Day cultural forces. He’s unafraid to be himself, and that vulnerability, paired with his raw talent, is exactly what rock needs right now.

In a time when rock has been searching for its next defining voice, to me, Yungblud looks like the one to carry the torch forward. His energy, his message in music, and his connection with fans, he’s not just making songs, he’s making a movement, a very big movement!

GE - Gary England

#LondonNewsAgency

More About Yungblud

Yungblud Facebook

Yungblud Instagram

My Eulogy For The Prince Of Darkness Rest In Peace Ozzy: Mama He's Coming Home

 Few names in rock and metal history evoke as much reverence and rebellion as Ozzy Osbourne. 

The “Prince of Darkness” didn’t just help create heavy metal; he embodied it. From his working-class roots in Birmingham, England to the grand stages of global superstardom, Ozzy’s journey was wild, unfiltered, tragic, triumphant, and always unforgettable!

Ozzy first broke onto the scene as the frontman for Black Sabbath in 1969, a band whose dark riffs and ominous tone would define a genre. With tracks like “Paranoid,” “War Pigs,” and “Iron Man,” Ozzy’s haunting vocals became the voice of a generation disillusioned by war and politics, craving something raw and real. He didn’t sing songs, he unleashed them.

After Sabbath, Ozzy’s solo career soared higher than anyone expected. With the help of guitar prodigy Randy Rhoads, albums like Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman proved he wasn’t just a metal frontman; he was a cultural force. Songs like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley” are now eternal anthems of rock radio, and his stage presence, equal parts chaos and charisma, made him a must-see act for all music fans of all ages!

But Ozzy’s impact goes far beyond music. His resilience in the face of addiction, personal loss, and public scrutiny is part of his legend. He was real when the world wanted polished. He was vulnerable when the world expected bravado. He became a reality TV icon later in life, and still somehow never lost his identity, a feat few artists can claim.

Ozzy Osbourne isn’t just a rock star. He’s a survivor, a pioneer, and a voice that refused to be silenced. Whether you knew him from Sabbath, MTV, or the stage at Ozzfest, his influence is undeniable. He opened the gates for generations of artists, and his legacy continues to thunder through every power chord and growl that echoes in his wake!

Here’s to Ozzy Osbourne, The bat-biting, boundary-breaking, genre-defining godfather of metal. 

We've all been blessed to know you through your awesome music!

May you live forever as the Prince of Darkness!

GE

Las Vegas Musician Jimmie B Romero His Journey From Rock To Country Music Star

In my recent blog, I talked about nationally known rock, pop, and hip-hop music artists who have made the transition (Either in part or fully) from their chosen genre of music to crossover to the country music scene.

Today, I'm featuring one of the most successful Local Las Vegas Rock N Rollers to make the crossover to country music performer. His name is Jimmie B Romero. 

With over a decade of performances at renowned venues like the House of Blues, Toby Keith's Bar n' Grill, and The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails inside the Cosmopolitan Hotel Casino LV. Jimmie has established himself as a captivating frontman known for energizing audiences and filling dance floors all over town. 

Jimmie's been a prominent figure in the Las Vegas music scene for years and has showcased his versatility by contributing to many established bands throughout his career, performing recently with high-caliber bands such as Jetboy and The Hellenbacks. Jimmie has also been associated with The Wild Wolves, another Top Las Vegas band that blends rock and country influences together.

His recent (Less than a year) evolution into country music has been marked by amazing success, amassing over 111 million streams across 26 platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music. His style blends the raw energy of rock with the storytelling essence of country, evident in tracks like "Johnny & June" and "Goes Around Comes Around." 

It is amazing, to say the least, to have amassed the huge number of streams (111 million) that Jimmie and his country music have received in this short period of time!

{My Take}

As Jimmie B. Romero continues to bridge the worlds of rock and country with authenticity and passion, his journey is a testament to artistic evolution and staying power. Whether he's commanding the stage with Jetboy, driving the grit of The Hellenbacks, or weaving stories through his solo work, Jimmie proves that great music knows no boundaries. With new projects always on his horizon, one thing is certain. "Jimmie B. Romero isn’t just part of the Las Vegas music scene; he’s helping to shape its look and sound for many years to come"!

GE

To be syndicated: #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #VegasInsider #GaryEngland 

For more information about Jimmie B Romero, performance dates, booking, and contact info. Check the links below.

Jimmie Romero Instagram

Jimmie B Romero On Spotify

Jimmie B Romero Facebook

Jimmie B Romero YouTube Channel

jimmieromero.com (Official Website)

Contact Jimmie B Romero

Rock Star Comedian Podcaster Event Host Who Is Izzy Presley?

Who Is Izzy Presley?

1st of all, Izzy Presley is one of the most talented and diverse people that I've been blessed to know in my fifty-plus years in the entertainment media business. A multifaceted entertainer based in Las Vegas, Nevada. Izzy is known for his work as a professional musician (I call him a Rock Star), an off-the-wall comedian, a very knowledgeable podcaster, and a superman of event hosts (I call him the Michael Buffer Of The Music And The Entertainment World).

His Music Career

Izzy is the frontman of ACK! A Tribute to Ace Frehley, an all-star band celebrating the music of the KISS guitarist. The group features members from national touring acts like Faster Pussycat, LA Guns, and Enuff Z'Nuff, and has been joined by Tod Howarth of Frehley’s Comet.​ He also plays in the original band Mike Dawson & The Smoking Kills, alongside Mike Dawson from The Adam Carolla Show and Ted Russell Kamp from the Shooter Jennings Band.

​

His Comedy & Podcasting

Izzy is one of the longtime mainstays of the Monsters of Rock Cruises. And has made a name for himself in stand-up comedy, performing in the show Punchlines & Backlines, which features musicians trying stand-up comedy for the first time. The show has included musical artists like Kip Winger, Jeff Scott Soto, and Todd LaTorre. 

​Izzy hosts Another FN Podcast, a long-running show featuring interviews with musicians, comedians, actors, and more. The podcast has been active for over a decade and is available on platforms like Apple Podcasts.

His Event Hosting & Other Ventures

Izzy has hosted events such as Soundcheck Live at Lucky Strike Live and various music cruises, including the Monsters of Rock Cruise and Cruise to the Edge. He is also a certified wedding officiant in Las Vegas, offering his services for ceremonies in the city.

Additionally, Izzy offers personalized video messages on Cameo for occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

You can catch Izzy hosting the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show and the RockGodz Hall Of Fame Ceremony and concert show May 30th thru June 1st of this year inside the Silverton Hotel Casino (Las Vegas).

I told you that Izzy is a very talented (And Busy) man! 

I'm almost afraid to ask, what else do you do, Izzy?

To find out, click < More Of Izzy Presley >

GE

Izzy Presley Facebook​

Izzy Presley Official Website

Izzy Presley Instagram

Izzy Presley Twitter X

Izzy Presley On Spreaker

Tips For Musicians How To Land an Endorsement Deal

 In my previous blog. I discussed what musicians' endorsements are, and the various types of endorsements that exist in the music industry. < Read Here >

Today, I'm discussing how to secure an endorsement deal.

Landing an endorsement deal as a musician is about building relationships, showing value to a brand, and being marketable. Here are some practical tips to help you secure one of these endorsements.

Build Your Brand First

• Be active online: Brands want exposure. Maintain a solid presence on social media, YouTube, TikTok, or a personal website.

• Look professional: Use quality photos, consistent branding, and engaging content that reflects your musical identity.

• Show growth: Highlight your following, gigging history, streams, or album sales.

Use the Product Authentically

• Only go after companies whose gear you already use and believe in.

• Tag the brand in posts and videos where you use their gear—it gets you on their radar naturally.

Network Like Crazy

• Go to trade shows (like NAMM), clinics, and local events.

• Connect with company reps, artist relations managers, or endorsed musicians.

• Be personable—relationships lead to deals.

Create a Solid Pitch

• Put together an Electronic Press Kit (EPK): bio, press coverage, performance clips, audience stats, and how you’d benefit the brand.

• Explain how you can help them, not just what you want. Mention your tour schedule, audience reach, and content plans.

Start Small and Grow

• Don’t shoot for Gibson or Fender right away. Smaller or boutique companies are more likely to take a chance on emerging artists.

• Build a track record with smaller endorsements—it adds credibility when approaching bigger brands later.

Be Professional and Consistent

• Respond promptly and respectfully to communication.

• Follow through with the promotion if they send you gear.

• Stay active and visible in your music scene.

Stay Genuine

• Don’t just chase freebies—brands can tell when you're not passionate about their product.

• Authenticity translates to better partnerships and long-term opportunities.

{My Take}

Signing an endorsement deal is a major milestone—but it’s not the finish line. It marks the start of a professional relationship that requires consistency, visibility, and mutual respect. Treat it like a business partnership: deliver on your end, stay engaged, and continue growing as an artist.

The more value you bring to the table—on stage, online, and in your community—the stronger your relationship with the brand will be. And as your career evolves, so will the opportunities. Stay grounded, stay genuine, and use the endorsement wisely.

Good Luck!

GE

Traits That Separate Working Musicians From Larger Than Life Rock Stars

 The word "Rockstar - Rock Star" is thrown around quite a bit in the music industry. 

{In My Opinion As A 50 Plus Year Music Journalist}

Not all musicians qualify to be deemed as Rock Stars.

To me, Rock Stars have a unique combination of traits that make them stand out. 

Whether it's their stage presence, confidence, or their sheer talent. 

Two Of The Very Best World-Renowned Best Guitarists On Planet Earth - Bad-A$$ Rock Stars
Mitch Perry & Rowan Robertson 

----------

After talking to fans, venue management, and with the musicians themselves. Here are some key traits that they mentioned when describing what a Rock Star means to them.

 Bigger Than Life Charisma & Stage Presence

A Rock Star commands attention the moment that they step on stage. Their energy and confidence make performances unforgettable.

Passion & Dedication

Rock Stars live and breathe music, putting in hours of practice and performance. Their love for their craft keeps them going, even when the industry is tough.

Confidence & Swagger

Rock Stars exude confidence, whether on stage or in interviews. They carry themselves with an attitude that makes them larger than life.

Creativity & Originality

Rock Stars push boundaries, creating unique music and performances. Their style, sound, and persona set them apart from the rest of the musicians.

Rebellious Spirit

Rock Stars challenge norms, break rules, and carve their own paths. Rock stars are known for their nonconformist attitudes.

Hard Work & Perseverance

Rock Stars spend years honing their craft, facing rejection and setbacks. They push through struggles to achieve their dreams.

Showmanship & Entertainment Value

Rock Stars know how to work a crowd, keeping fans engaged and excited. Their performances go beyond just playing music—they create an experience.

Emotional Depth & Vulnerability

Rock Stars pour their emotions into their music, connecting deeply with fans. They express raw, real feelings through their lyrics and performances.

Strong Branding & Image

Whether it’s fashion, hair, or attitude, rock stars cultivate an iconic look. Their image becomes as legendary as their music.

Influence & Leadership

Rock Stars inspire fans, musicians, and even entire generations. Their words and actions can shape culture and trends for many years.

{My Take}

"A rock star is a charismatic, boundary-pushing musician who captivates audiences with their talent, confidence, and larger-than-life presence."

 Yes, Rock Stars are pretty special people. 

~GE~

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#MitchPerry #RowanRobertson #RockStars #Guitarists #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #PMC

What Are The Skill Levels In Being A Musician?

 I've always said that if you're a paid musician living in Las Vegas, you've got to be good!

But are all musicians created equal?

The skill levels of being a musician can generally be categorized into different stages based on technical ability, musical knowledge, and experience. 

1st The Beginner

Learning basic techniques (e.g., how to hold an instrument, fundamental chords, basic rhythms).

Limited knowledge of music theory.

Can play simple songs but may struggle with timing and consistency.

Requires guidance from a teacher or instructional material.

Intermediate

More comfortable with the instrument and has developed muscle memory.

Can play more complex pieces and maintain a steady rhythm.

Starts understanding scales, chord progressions, and key signatures.

May begin improvising and writing simple songs.

Can play with other musicians in a basic setting (e.g., jam sessions, school bands).

Advanced

Highly developed technical skills and a deeper understanding of music theory.

Can play difficult compositions and improvise confidently.

Able to read music fluently (if applicable) and transcribe songs by ear.

May perform in professional settings, such as bands, orchestras, or solo gigs.

Can experiment with different genres and develop a unique style.

Professional

Master's complex techniques and can perform consistently under various conditions.

Strong theoretical knowledge, including advanced harmony and composition.

Can play multiple instruments or specialize deeply in one.

Performs, records, and teaches music professionally.

Can adapt quickly to different musical situations and collaborate with other musicians effortlessly.

Virtuoso (Elite/Legendary Level) - ROCK STAR!!

Extraordinary technical ability, expressiveness, and innovation.

Influences other musicians and pushes musical boundaries.

Recognized as a master in their genre (e.g., Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, Jimi Hendrix).

Has a unique style that is difficult for others to replicate.

Often composes groundbreaking music or develops new techniques.

To all of my musician friends.

Where do you see yourself in this progression?

GE