Vancouver Island Music Business Conference!

We had an amazing time this year at The Vancouver Island Music Business Conference held in Courtenay, BC. I want to give a big thank you to Susie Mcgregor for inviting me to be part of the Songwriter's Circle with Dan Hill and to be on the board of panelists.

Learn about the seminars that took place! here:http://www.tumblr.com/tumblelog/steflang

This is a great test.

Canadian Music Week 2011 - Recap

(With Lillix @ CRMA's)

Wow! Been so busy I can't even think! Finally got some time to sit down and recapture the week's festivities for you.

Friday I played at The Canadian Radio Music Awards held at the Royal York Hotel. I was fortunate to be nominated in two categories (Hot AC and CHR)...However, no win for me this year...though I'm happy to have been a part of the experience! My heart started to race a bit as they were announcing the winners. Big congratulations to all the winners! Canada is really thriving with great music and wonderful artistry. At the awards show...I bumped into the girls from Lillix (who are not only stylish and extremely rock&roll, they are very friendly and charming). Melissa Ethridge presented an award and apparently through word of mouth, she dug our performance (bonus!)

(Performing @ CRMA's)

Later on that night...(Thanks to VP Jeff Craib), I had the pleasure of performing at The Gladstone Hotel as part of the SL Feldman Showcase. Amazing talent there! Artist's include Sierra Noble http://www.sierranoble.ca/, Current Swell http://currentswell.com/, and Hello Beautiful http://www.myspace.com/hellobeautifulspace

During our set, the room was packed with music lovers, industry peeps and party goers. We played with high energy and I must have sweat out all of my bodily fluids, it was so damn hot on that stage. The band I worked with was incredible (Thanks Topher, Dave, Russ & Lindsay for an amazing time)

(Performing @ The Gladstone Hotel)

Afterwards...once adrenaline levelled out...we set out on shmoozing / mingling mode and worked the room. Within the crowd there were the agents from the Feldman family, the Hipjoint Crew, Shawn Marino of Universal, Ron Lopata of Warner, Mark Jowett of Nettwerk and tonnes more!

By the time our drink tickets ran out was about the time Ron Sexsmith stepped on stage as a surprise special guest performer. As a huge Sexsmith fan myself, I was totally blown away – more so, in a state of shock by being in the same room as the creator of music that really moves me. He is totally peculiar and alluring, which makes him a great songwriter.

Since it was a packed room with loud talkers...I felt people needed to appreciate his intimate, acoustic performance much more than they did (And that's probably why he deliberately popped the PA by unplugging his guitar patch after only four songs...and walked offstage.) That told me something about him. He is Rock&Roll:)

(With Ron Sexsmith in the green room)

Now that my showcases are over, I'm spending the rest of my trip doing co-writes with three different writers. Yesterday I wrote with Marissa from Disband. She is an extremely talented young lady and very clever songwriter. We wrote a pop/rock smasher in the same vein as Paramore & Pink.

Today I was with Dan Davidson – Since we are both from out of town and checking out of our hotels on the same day...we had no place to write! Our last minute spontaneous plan consisted of us stealthily sneaking around The Royal York to find an empty room we could jam in. Mission accomplished.

Tomorrow I write with Shawn Desman – Gonna be fun!

S. Lang reporting from (still freezing) Toronto....Over and OUT!

xo

Day 2: CMW 2011 – Do it up RIGHT!

Hello All!

I'm reporting again from snowy, cold and rainy Toronto. Today is my second day here for Canadian Music Week and I spent it catching up with friends and checking out some killer bands!

I started out at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel and met up with my friend Dan Erison. We chatted about music over drinks the lobby cocktail lounge. Dan is currently in management for Open Road Records. (Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts)

(With the Hipjoint Boys @ El Macombo)

We bumped into the beautiful and lovely Tracey Singer also from Vancouver. She is managing country artist Stacy McKitrik also from Vancouver!

After a few rounds...I get a text from Mike James (Hipjoint Productions) saying “Just got off the plane...I'll be at the hotel in one hour.” My reply... “Sweet I'm at the bar”

Turns out we had all made the same plans to go see the same showcase without even knowing, so we merged forces and took Toronto by storm.

(Running Red Lights)

We made our way out to The Supermarket in Kensington Market to catch The Agency Group Showcase. I had made dinner plans with Nancy Levesque, so we met up there for some pad thai and spicy chicken! Nancy is rocking with the Tanjola team in Toronto on the artist management side. (Tanjola manages Keshia Chante, Shiloh) http://www.tanjola.com/

There was a hand full of people I bumped into at The Supermarket! Artist manager/booker Rob Pattee, artist Jack Connolly, Fraser Hill of EMI and Dina Young (Dina and her partner in crime Bonnie are two lovely ladies that helped me get my FACTOR grants for tour funding and marketing/promotion funding) They are dope!

(Courage My Love @ El Macombo)

We watched country sweetheart Stacey McKitrik play a short set with her band. Great voice! I was line dancing in the crowd!

Shortly after...Running Red Lights hit the stage. I really enjoyed their show. Their front woman has great stage presence – slightly reminds me of Emily Haines of Metric. Also loved when their drummer started rapping. Check them out at http://www.myspace.com/runningredlightsmusic

Then, me and the Hipjoint team (Mike James, Troy Samson) made our way to El Macombo to check out Courage My Love. They are 17-year-old LEGIT rockers. For real. Great energy...couldn't keep my eyes off their chick drummer. Seriously bad ass and rare to see such young talent! http://www.myspace.com/mercedesandphoenix

(Darlingside @ The Dakota Tavern)

Closing in on 11pm, I flew solo over to The Dakota Tavern to check out this group I checked out on Myspace this morning. They are called Darlingside...really loved their music online and their live show was perfect. Intimate, heartfelt and the venue suits the mood. Check them out! http://www.myspace.com/darlingside

2 nights down! 4 more to Go!

S.LANG over and OUT!

Day 1: Kick Start Canadian Music Week

Hello Friends!

Today was a great way to start the week in Toronto. I caught an early flight this morning to T.O. and as the plane descended...I peaked out of my window seat to see nothing but SNOW! Totally should have used my Weather Network app on my Android phone to check the weather before coming to Ontario. Brrrrr! I would have packed a few extra sweaters...scarves...mittens...long-johns.

I hopped on the bus to downtown and checked in for band registration at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel. In the line up to pick up artist wristbands, I bumped into two members from Venice Queen www.myspace.com/venicequeenband (Fox Seeds Winners) a couple years back. Turns out, they are from Vancouver as well! The city is already buzzing with excitement...musicians a like all seem to be able to pick each other out in a crowd.

(With The Autumn Portrait, Jeremy von Hollen @ The Horseshoe)

At the airport..also bumped into band members from Red Vienna www.myspace.com/redvienna as we were coincidentally both checking our guitars into the fragile baggage section. All I had to do was ask "Canadian Music Week?" and an understanding nod confirmed that it is going to be a jam packed week of conferences, co-writing, showcases, shmoozing and checking out new bands!

Once I registered for CMW, I made my way to the East side to settle in with a friend of a friend. Turns out...One of them is now the new drummer for Ron Sexsmith! Rad!

I hit up my friend Jeremy von Hollon (music supervisor for Instinct Entertainment – and show Degrassi) and made plans to hang! Jeremy is the man behind the magic for bringing you “Straitjacket” and “Diamonds” by placing them in Degrassi:) He is good people! We hooked up downtown for some spontaneous ice skating then made our way to the Horseshoe Tavern.

Great line up tonight for the Tuesday New Music Night at The Shoe. We caught Royal Canoe – from Winnipeg. Amazingly, powerful and emotional music! LOVE LOVE LOVED it! Definitely check them out! Www.myspace.com/royalcanoe

Also caught Acres of Lions! They played an energetic set and we chatted briefly after their set. Very nice guys! Check them out www.acresoflions.com

And WHAT DO YOU KNOW! Bumped into some Vancourites at The Horseshoe as well! The boys from Autumn Portrait are currently on their cross Canada Tour now...and they surprised me...we hugged it out...then had a shooter. The lovely Adeline also graced us with her presence! So nice to have so much of home in the same room.

GREAT START to CMW!

Royal Canoe @ The Horseshoe Tavern www.myspace.com/royalcanoe

Ice skating downtown Toronto! brrrrr

With Jeremy :)

xoxo

s

Stef Lang - Canadian Music Week 2011 - CRMA's & Feldman Showcase!

Canadian Music Week is just around the corner! Thought I'd keep you up to date with my plans for CMW...I'm very excited and this is my first year attending the events.

First off, I'll be performing at The Canadian Radio Music Awards ( Friday, March 11th)
The awards luncheon is being held at:

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel
100 Front Street W
Toronto, Ontario

I've been nominated in two categories for "Mr. Immature"

1. CHR (Contemporary Hit Radio,) along side Justin Beiber:)
2. HOT AC (Adult Contemporary) along side my friend Laurell, another lovely and talented songwriter from Vancouver, BC


Also, later that night, I'll be performing at Feldman Showcase! Big thanks to VP Jeff Craib for adding me to the bill!

S.L. Feldman & Associates Showcase featuring
STEF LANG (set time 10:45-11:15pm)
Gladstone Hotel
Friday, March 11, 2011
7:00 PM - 2:30 AM

Location: Gladstone Hotel
Address: 1214 Queen St. W., Toronto West, Toronto

LINE UP:
Justin Hines 7:00PM
Sierra Noble 7:45PM
Kim Churchill 8:30PM
Current Swell 9:15PM
Hello Beautiful 10:00PM
Stef Lang 10:45PM
Andrew Cole 11:30PM
TBA 12:15AM
Bobby Bazini 1:00AM
Neverending White Lights 1:45AM

I Heart NUE YORK: CMJ 2010 - NYC

Wow! jet set whirl-wind ride from Vancouver to New York to showcase at CMJ this year in New York City. Too much fun.

Shout out to NUE Agency for having me on the bill at Sullivan Hall on Friday night (Oct 22) http://nueagency.com/ You guys put on a killer show!

Especially loved watching hip hop, grunge group SHINOBI NINJA

http://www.myspace.com/shinobininjamusic

These guys were super high energy and murdered their set! Also...found out they got some Canadian blood:) Was nice hanging with you guys.

Also loved grooving out to THE DEAN'S LIST

Hailing from Boston...check it out here http://www.myspace.com/itsthedeanslist

Shout out to Craig Nisperos! for catching this flick of "Mr. Immature"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoPrqIMiCxc

Looking forward to shooting the music video for "Slave2Love" with you!

Canadian Tour Re-cap!

On The Road Again

September 6th, 2010

Willie Nelson's lyrics linger in my head as we drive the open road. As we travel through The Rockies, we have a sense of leaving. We know we are leaving home, we are leaving BC and we know we won't be back for a while. The mountains are majestic and the air is clean. The sounds of soft acoustic music bleed from our car stereo...we indulge in conversation...we notice the beautiful scenery, but most of all we enjoy creating our own soundtrack to our journey.

We pull into the back alley outside The Dirty Jersey in Kamloops BC. It is our first show away from home. It is hot as we load in all of our gear into the venue. It's wing night. 15 cent wings brings a good crowd to the bar on a Thursday night. Once we've loaded in...we wander over to the park across the street and play Frisbee. We drink self-made vodka cocktails from our kleen kanteens. It's Jeff's 26th birthday....everyone draws a picture on a bottle of Malibu as a keep sake. On this bottle there's a beach, a naked woman, a cat pirate, a farmer that's king of the sea and crows in the distance.

Attached to the venue, there's a bowling alley. We play two games and it's safe to say that none of us will ever have a career in bowling. It's a fun way to pass the time. It's an easy night for us – one set, get paid and we are out of there! We stay at a friend's place...a lovely and talented songwriter named Kate Morgan. We appreciate the hospitality and take comfort in a warm house.

September 3rd is a Friday. We leave Kamloops early to get to Kelowna for an interview with 99.9 SUN FM. We meet “Doc” the music director and Sonia, the on-air personnel. SUN FM has been big supporters of “Mr Immature” and has featured the new single “Slave2Love”. We spend time with Sonia in the studio and talk about life on the road. There is a young caller that phones in to ask 'What is it like being famous? And what do you miss about your normal life?” I'm immediately thrown off and surprised by the question, but the answer is easy - I don't feel any different. And I think to myself...my life seems pretty normal...

We play at The Minstrel Cafe in Kelowna. Three of us order the pork chop dinner with mashed potatoes. We play three sets and it turns out there's family in the room that I've never met before. Two young, beautiful girls approach me and I discover relatives I did not know existed. They were fans before we knew about each other. It's funny how life brings people together.

September 4th. It's a long drive to Fernie BC. Eight hours with a stop along the way. A nail got stuck in one of our back tires, causing it to go flat. Our first vehicle repair happens in Creston BC. We kill time by browsing the second hand store called “Second Hand Heaven” I bought a five dollar belt and contemplated buying a tic-tac-toe board game that you play using shot glasses. I'm not sure how you play or what the rules are...but seems to me like a fun way to drink.

Fernie is a gorgeous town. The mountains reach for the sky and the air is crisp. Most of the shops are closed but people are trickling through the bar. The Brickhouse is where we play. We all eat relatively healthy...Paul has seared salmon with a salad and I have the basil pesto chicken dinner with roasted red potatoes and vegetables. We know that our bodies need nutrients to sustain a three week pull living on the road.

The people in Fernie love music and the owner of The Brickhouse is kind. We play three sets and meet fans from Calgary that came out to see us. People are receptive to the new album “The Underdog.” They buy a copy and walk away with music at the end of the night. We stay at the Causeway Bay Motel in Sparwood BC. The next day we take advantage of a good sleep in...we played seven gigs that week. Getting a good night's rest is valued.

September 5th is a Sunday, no gig for us. We take our time driving to Calgary. When we arrive, we find a park on the river. The first thing Jesse does is pull out one of the guitars and sit on a bench and start playing. He needs his guitar like he needs air. Jeff takes out his camera and spends time capturing the city from his point of view. Phyllis enjoys riding her scooter up and down the street. Time passes easily and soon the night falls. We feel the cold touch our skin and for the first time we realize summer has gone. The leaves are turning colors.

Phyllis and I decide to indulge in our girly, guilty pleasure of watching romantic comedies. “Waitress” is the one we watch from the backseat of our van. It's about a young waitress who unexpectedly gets pregnant with her husband's baby. She hates her husband and plans on leaving him once she wins the prize money from a pie making contest. She ends up falling in love with her doctor. Phyllis and I agree that he's sexy and charmingly awkward.

After the park, we check into a really sketchy motel. The room we are given loses power within the first fifteen minutes. The headboard above the bed has been removed from the wall and the people hanging around in the parking lot do not seem trustworthy. I'm not prepared to take chances so I take my guitars in. If my guitars ever get stolen...my heart would break in a million different ways.

As I'm unloading gear...two women walk past and notice the name logo on the side of the van. “Are you Stef Lang?” they ask. Caught off guard I say, “Yes” and a look of recognition lifts their expression. “Oh wow! We love your music! Can we have your autograph?”

I'm utterly surprised. This is the first time this has EVER happened to me. Complete strangers...fans....in the middle of the night....in the sticks of Calgary....have heard the music before. And it has touched them in way strong enough for them to want a chicken scratched piece of paper that I give them. It is the strangest feeling but I'm happy to see people emotionally moved by music. I walk up to our room...and for a moment I thank God...or whoever is up in the sky...for sending me people...fans....that appreciate music and for allowing me to resonate with them in the way that I'm most passionate about.

We flop onto our beds and Jack Black's “School of Rock” is on TV. Phyllis hooks up the kettle and prepares us spicy noodle cups with ham. She is motherly and caring. We all are thankful that SOMEONE takes care of us. Soon Jesse is snoring and Jeff and I are the only ones awake. We talk till 4am telling ghost stories. We laugh and then we fall asleep.

Tour Show Listings

Sunday, August 29th
Nanaimo, BC
Rendezvous
Address: 489 Wallace Street
Tix: $25//$20 advance
Show: 8pm

Monday, August 30th
Duncan, BC
The Garage Showroom
Address: 201-330 Duncan Street
w/ guest Lena Birtwistle
http://www.myspace.com/lenabirtwistle
Tix: $15/$12 advance
Show: 8pm

Wednesday, September 1st
Vancouver, BC
The Railway Club
Address: 579 Dunsmuir Street
w/ guest Aurora Jane
http://www.myspace.com/aurorajane
Tix: $10 Cover//$8 members
Show: 9pm

Thursday, September 2nd
Kamloops, BC
The Dirty Jersey
Address: 1200 8 Street
http://www.thedirtyjersey.ca
No Cover
Show: 9pm

Friday, September 3rd
Kelowna, BC
The Minstrel Café
Address: 4638 Lakeshore Road
http://www.minstrelcafe.com
$5 cover
Show: 8pm

Saturday, September 4th
Fernie, BC
The Brickhouse
Address: 401 2 Avenue
http://www.thebrickhousefernie.com
No Cover
Show: 8pm

Monday, September 6th
Calgary, AB
The Ironwood
Address: 1229 9 Avenue Southeast
http://ironwoodstage.ca/schedule.html
$10 Cover
Show: 9pm

Tuesday, September 7th
Edmonton, AB
The Haven Social House
Address: 15120 Stony Plain Road Northwest
www.thehavensocialclub.com
$10 Cover
Show: 9pm

Wednesday, September 8th
Saskatoon, SK
The Bowl @ The U of S
Address: 105 Administration Place
Welcome Week
No Cover
Show: 4pm

Thursday, September 9th
Regina, SK
The U of R (Outdoor Show)
Address: 3737 Wascana Parkway Regina
Welcome Week
w/ Fred Penner, Team Canada Djs,
Foxx Worthee, Bedouin Soundclash
No Cover
Show: 12:00pm

Friday, September 10th
Winnipeg, MB
Princess St. Atrium
Address: 160 Princess St.
No Cover
Show: 11am

Cave Lounge
DM20 – 2055 Notre Dame Ave
No Cover
Show: 12pm

Sunday, September 12th
Toronto, ON
The Drake Underground
Address: 1150 Queen Street West
w/ guests Nights and Weekends, The Framework
http://www.myspace.com/nightsandweekends
http://www.myspace.com/songsintheframework
$10 Cover
Show: 9pm

Monday, September 13th
Kingston, ON
The Mansion
Address: 506 Princess St
www.themansionkingston.com
$10 Cover
Show: 9pm

Thursday, September 16th
Toronto, ON
The Rivoli
Address: 332 Queen Street West
w/ guests Amy Campbell, Kristin Sweetland,
Lyndell Montgomery, Sara Kamin
www.rivoli.ca
$10 Cover
Show: 9pm

Friday, September 17th
Ottawa, ON
Zaphod Beeblebrox
Address: 27 York Street
w/ guests Keek, The Nathan Day Project
Tix: $10//$8 adv from www.ticketweb.ca
Show: 8pm

Saturday, September 18th
Montreal, ON
TBA

We're getting ready to hit the road again real soon:) On our Canadian Tour we are playing in Kamloops, Kelowna, Fernie, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, Kingston, Ottawa, Montreal.

from Left...Meet Paul Townsend (drums), Phyllis Ho (Violin), Myself, Jesse Griffith (Guitar) and Jeff Elston (Bass)

For three and a half weeks, we'll be rolling around the country in a fifteen passenger seat van/bus, doing what we LOVE:) thanks for all the love and support from friends, family, hipjoint, and all the radio stations in Canada that are spinning our record:) and to all our new fans!! Will we catch you at a show???? would love to meet you guys...

Will post all show details really soon:)

xoxo

s.

Guitar Chords to "Diamonds"

Noticed someone had been searching for the guitar chords to "Diamonds'' - thought I write out some instructions for ya! Hope this helps and hope you find it ok. xoxox

Chords - Diamonds by Stef Lang

Tuning: B string is tuned up to a C

Capo on 3 fret

This song is finger picked:

The Low E string does all the moving…with picking

The rest is rung out by the G+B+D string

Step 1: Pluck Low E string on the 8^th fret

Step 2: Pluck G + B open string together at the same time

Step 3: Pluck D open string

Each time Low E moves, repeat Steps 2 + 3

Low E is plucked at the 8^th fret, 1^st fret , 5^th fret and 3^rd fret (in that order)

This repeats throughout the whole song

The only change is at “and I’m falling into the Earth” – it pedals on the 1^st and 3^rd fret

Hope this helps!

love Stef

"Mr. Immature" in Canadian Top 20

Hi Friends,

I just wanted to take a moment to say a big THANK YOU to all the radio stations across Canada that are currently playing "Mr. Immature"

As CHUM's Emerging Artist for the month of May - The single has been gaining recognition and recently reached into The Canadian Top 20. My first and foremost thanks goes to CHUM and everyone at Hipjoint Music.

This is a very exciting time:) Thank you so much to all the radio stations for all the support and for allowing my music the chance to be heard! The effect it has taken on people is incredible...when they get it and relate to it... It is my biggest win! Thank you for playing such an important role in every artists career...and for being the vehicle that continues to drive music to the people!

Just want to take a second to recognize these stations for playing "Mr. Immature" and those who took the time to meet with me for an interview and performance. I truly appreciate it. (please please please forgive me if I missed any of you)

The Beat 94.5 - Vancouver, BC ( Jaxon Hawks! it all started w/ you and OC passing me through my first audition @ The Beat Music Awards in 2006. So literally, none of this would have happened if it weren't for you! Thank you)

95.3 Virgin - Vancouver, BC (Kevin! Thanks for having me on Best of BC. Lovin' the local support!)

107.3 Kool Fm -Victoria, BC (Robin, thanks for the coolest interview ever!)

89.7 Sun FM - Duncan, BC (Jim Jackson, you've been one of my longest supporters. Big island love:)

101.5 Energy Fm - Calgary, AB ( Thanks Carlos and Trip!)

101.3 Kraze Fm - Red Deer, AB
(The first official add! Thanks Dennis, Ransom!)

91.7 The Bounce - Edmonton, AB (Thanks Cory and Samara!)

104.5 CHUM - Toronto, ON (Thanks Richie for a great interview)

91.5 The Beat - Kitchener, ON( you guys were a riot! so fun:)

106.1 Magic - Guelph, ON ( big thanks to Laura, Emily and Gabby!)

98.3 Fly Fm - Kingston, ON (thanks Candace and the whole staff)

Mix 97 - Belleville, ON (Thanks Charity Brown!!)

103.1 Fresh Fm - London, ON ( Thanks Ian Sterling for killer interview and thanks Lianne Young!)

Hot 899 - Ottawa, ON (Kenny B - you crazy yo! xoxo)

Virgin 96 - Montreal, QB (Thank Cousin Vinny and Madhvi)

99.9 Sun Fm - Kelowna, BC
105.7 Sun Fm - Vernon, BC
97.5 The River - Kamloops, BC
97.1 Sun Fm - Penticton, BC
98.5 Energy Fm - Fort St. John, BC
102.3 Energy Fm - Fort Nelson, BC
The Mix 590 Am - Terrace, BC
Vibe 98.5 - Calgary, AB
90.3 Amp Radio - Calgary, AB
B 93.3 - Lethbridge, AB
Power 99 Fm - Prince Albert, SK
Z99 - Regina, SK
96.3 Wired - Saskatoon, SK
C95 - Saskatoon, SK
98.1 CKBW - Bridgewater, NS
89.5 Mix Fm - Kenora, ON
B 93 Fm - Fort Francis, ON
CKDR 92.7 - Dryden, ON
99.7 Energy - Peterborough, ON
107.5 Kool FM - Barrie, ON
B101 - Barrie, ON
Hot 93.5 - Sudbury, ON
Z101 - Niagra Falls, ON
Kiss FM - Toronto, ON
K 100 - St. John, NB
C 100 - Halifax, NS
101.3 The Bounce - Halifax, NS
K 94.5 - Moncton, NS
Hits 99.1 - St. Johns, NL
and of course....Galaxie Hitlist!

Hope to meet you guys in the future:) See you soon
xoxo
stef lang

June 2010 Shows: Guelph and NorthByNorthEast!

Hello friends.

I'll be making my way back out to Ontario for a few more dates this Summer.

1) Sunday, June 13th - Multicultural Fest - Guelph, O.N.

This is an outdoor festival, Free admission, Free Parking
At Guelph Riverside Park (June 11-13th)
http://www.gdmf.ca/ for more info.
5:00pm - showtime

2) Friday, June 18th - NXNE Showcase @ The Rivoli - Toronto, O.N.
8:00 pm - showtime
http://www.nxne.com/ for more info


Lots of new stuff on the rise! Stay tuned:)

Touring Bands: Where to Play in Vancouver

Hello all bands, artists, musicians.

Having recently booked a Western Canada Tour, it rapidly became clear to me just how difficult it can be to find venues if you're a band that's going on tour. Not only to find venues of your genre, but venues that also provide bands with a guarantee or some other means of compensation that makes the gig all the more worth while to you.

Because it's a struggle I can empathize with, I thought I'd post a blog to provide "Do-it-yourself" bands with some helpful tips about booking gigs AND to give you a complete and up-to-date list of venues in Vancouver.

First thing I realized about hunting for venues in unfamiliar cities is that there is no real online site that is a hub for the information that you need. So! I'm giving back to all of you by giving info on the area I know best. VANCOUVER!!!! Hope this helps:)

First: Some Tour Booking Tips

Tip #1) Decide when and where you want to tour.

-Go to Chapters and buy a good map / atlas of the area that you want to tour.
-Highlight the major cities you want to hit
-Draw in a rough outline of your driving route
-Keep in mind the distance between cities (find out how many hours of driving between each)
-Decide when you'll tour and for how long
-List all your cities and tag them to a date that's reasonable
* Try and book your major cities on the weekend (Friday, Saturday) and work around that.

Tip #2) Skip Email. Call.

-Once you've got your outline, start with the first date and city
-google the live music venues in that area
-list the top venues that seem like they are for sure "music" venues. Hit those first.
-CALL THEM. Emailing takes way too long. Weeks can go by before you'll ever hear from them. By then, you may lose track on whether or not you pursued them in the first place.
-Talk to someone at the venue ask these questions:
"do you book live music?" "what nights of the week?" "what style genre?" if all yes and is a potential match for you....ask "can I speak with the person that handles the bookings"
- get a name, phone number and/or email - connect with them.
-Provide them with these: tell them what you're doing (touring), give a link to your myspace, an exact date that you'd like to book, your contact info. Keep it short and to-the-point.

Tip#3) Keep track!!!

I keep a list that looks like this.... THIS IS AN EXAMPLE

Today's date: April 7th
Target City/Date: Calgary, September 9th

List of Venues in Calgary to Call:

Venue name here Venue number here Status: called, left message
Venue name here Venue number here Status: talked to owner, sent email
Venue name here Venue number here Status: called, left message
Venue name here Venue number here Status: interested in the gig
Venue name here Venue number here Status: doesn't do live music anymore

I call every venue and keep notes as I go along. That way I know exactly where I stand with each venue. You save loads of time when you don't have to double back or review the same venues multiple times.

Tip#4) Follow Up

-be resilient and follow up with all potential venues
- it can be discouraging but stay on them!
-if you haven't heard back in a few days or a week. Follow up with a polite email or phone call.
-Stay on them! Stay on them!

Tip#5) Book your tour 4-6 months in advance

-this gives you enough time to book ahead AND do any tour promo
-some venues will only book 6 months in advance!

Tip#6) What to ask for

-While you're on the road anything helps!
-ask for a guarantee, a door deal, meals/drinks, accommodations etc. etc.
-Every deal is different and may not get all of these things but always ask.
-Don't be afraid to negotiate. If they offer you a deal - if you want more, ask for more. They may give it to you. If they don't, then decide on whether or not you still want it anyway.

Tip#7) Contract it

-Once you've made your deals and booked your dates, make a one page agreement stating ALL information that you've agreed on. Get them to sign it and fax back! Last thing you want is a venue to flake out on you.
-You should include these things:
Band name/info, Venue name, city, address, name of the talent buyer, his contact info,
Fee agreed upon(guarantee) Set time, Set length, Load in Time, Sound check time, if venue provides PA and sound tech, Additional details like: accommodations provided, if you have a % of door deal, meals and drinks included. etc etc. Put everything in this contract!

After that, you're all good.

Touring Bands: Where to Play in Vancouver

The Roxy - is the best sounding venue in Vancouver (in my opinion) Large stage, fully equipped, sound tech, dance floor, popular bar/club and is busy every night of the week. This is one of my favourite places to go! They mostly have hired cover bands (who are great!) but they do book original bands of most genres on certain nights of the week prior to the cover bands. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver in the most lively area along the Granville Street strip. Go to their site for info. (http://www.roxyvan.com)

The Bourbon - This is also a great sounding venue (comparable to the Roxy) They have live music almost every night. Located in Gastown - From the outside it looks a bit sketchy, but once you're inside, you see that its a large venue and gets really busy on the weekends. They have a great stage, dance floor, two bars on both sides, seating area and pool tables. This is a popular place to go and see live bands. I've seen every genre played here! (hip hop, metal, singer songwriter, rock, pop, you name it) (http://www.thebourbon.ca)

The Railway Club - This is a beautiful place for artists and bands to play. The atmosphere is cozy and the audience is usually quite receptive. They have a good sized stage that is leveled with your crowd ( at seated high top tables/bar stools, some booths and seated area) When it's busy most people stand. There's also a large back room where you can eat and drink quietly away from the stage if you want. All the staff @ The Railway are fantastic people, they make you feel welcome and part of their familiar. This venue believes in and supports live music the most! They have live music every night of the week, (most genres) and they'll also do quite a bit of promoting for you as well (ie. posters up around the venue, handbills etc). Located downtown on the corner of Seymour St. and Dunsmiur St.
(http://www.therailwayclub.com/)

The Media Club - This is another very active live music venue located downtown (Georgia and Cambie St.) Live music every night, different genres - this is a good venue for throwing events! Lots of local bands and touring bands play here on a regular basis. The room is a smaller, more comfortable space, decent size stage, with lounge like seating and bar. Sound is good, sound guy there is one of my favourite people. (http://www.themediaclub.ca)

The Backstage Lounge - Another popular live music venue that a lot of bands like to play. This is also a good room if you're a solo artist or do something more acoustic. Live music most nights. Located on Granville Island (beautiful at night time on the water, nice view of the city) Good for holding events. Promote your show! (not a lot of walk in crowd) They'll give you a door deal, most likely a % of tickets sold. Stage is slightly elevated, small dance floor, bar, comfortable seating, patio. Sound is decent. (www.thebackstagelounge.com)

Malones Bar and Grill - Has live bands on Friday, Saturday nights. Located across the street from The Railway Club. The sound is not the greatest (but I hear they are investing in upgrading their P.A.) fingers crossed. Usually quite busy on the weekends so you'll have a crowd. They give you a good guarantee and if you're out of town, they may give you a room to stay in the hostel above the bar. Plus they'll give you 30% off food and drinks. They'll want you to play 3 sets between 10pm-1am (you can find an opener is you want) The staff is rad!
(http://www.malones.bc.ca/)

The Main - is located on Main St. Very cool area of the city. Highly artistic and creative district. This is a restaurant that has live music on Thurs, Fri and Saturday nights. The stage is really small (not ideal for bands) though, they still book bands. This is best done as a solo, duo or trio act. They want 3 sets between 10pm-1am. When it's busy, I usually always walk out of there with a nice amount of cash. Not a big sound system - they'll want you to run your own sound (its a pretty straight forward set up) The staff are very friendly. If you searched music venues in Vancouver, this one wouldn't be likely to come up - it's a diamond in the ruff. One of my favourite discoveries. Call directly.

4210 Main St.
Vancouver, BC V5V3P9

Tel: (604) 709-8555

The Biltmore - I personally don't know too much about this venue. I've never played there but I do see a lot of bands (local and touring) coming in and out of this place. I hear its a great spot in East Van. I know the room is spacious, nice stage set up, great atmosphere. (http://www.biltmorecabaret.com)

Pub 340 - I've played there a few times and didn't mind it. Again, looks a bit sketchy on the outside but the inside is OK. Decent stage, sound is alright. Cheap beer! A lot of heavier music pulls through there, punk, metal, garage rock etc etc. but have seen other genres there as well. I'm not sure how the door deals work there - they'll usually stick a few bands on a bill for the night.

* All of the venues mention above: If you book a gig there, your show will automatically be put in the local newspaper "The Georgia Straight" somewhere in the events listings. They are good with their listings.

The Rusty Gull - is a pub located on the North Shore. This venue has a lot of educated musicians walking in and out. They know their music. I believe Bryan Adams used to play there a lot. The guy that books the place is super cool. Played a couple acoustic sets there before, but they love to have bands either original, cover or a combination of both.
(http://www.rustygullpub.com/)

Venue - is a huge club also on the Granville strip. (and is fairly new to Vancouver) Larger names pull through here. Books touring acts that are more well known with a large fan base. Huge stage, dance floor, great sound. The club has two bars on both sides on the bottom floor and has a staircase to a mezzanine with a third bar overlooking the stage. Cool party place.
(http://www.venuelive.ca/)

Checkers - A pub on Davie St. near English Bay I recently discovered will hire solo or duo acoustic acts to come in a play a few sets of covers with some originals if you want (between 9pm -1am depending on how busy it is). You'll get a guarantee and maybe a few drinks and meal. Booker is cool. Staff is cool too. I played there on a Tuesday night. But they also have bands on the weekends.

Coffee Shop Type Venues:

Trees Organic Coffee House - my favourite coffee shop to play. Located on Granville street (further down away from the clubs) This is an acoustic venue, with a great listening crowd. On music night, typically they have 3 singer/songwriters with roughly a 45min set each. You can enjoy their wonderful food and coffee, sell some Cd's (musicians split the donations) The owner/Booker is also a fantastic songwriter himself (He hosts music night and plays a set as well) He's very welcoming, in tune with Vancouver's music scene, and genuinely loves to support live music. (http://www.treescoffee.com)

The Wired Bean - located on the North Shore. Another great listening venue. Usually a few singer/songwriters in a night. Musicians take donations. Great food, coffee and martinis! The woman that runs the bookings is also very supportive of live music and very hard working!
(http://www.myspace.com/wiredbeanshowcase)

For Jazz:
The Cellar Jazz Club is the place to go (http://www.cellarjazz.com/)
or
O'Doul's Restaurant (http://www.odoulsrestaurant.com/)

For Blues:
The Yale (http://www.theyale.ca/)

For a complete guide to Open Mics in Vancouver:
(http://www.openmicvancouver.com/)

And there you have it!
If you have questions or need help contacting these places, email me: stephanielang88@hotmail.com and I'd be happy to help.

I hope this list of information is helpful to bands coming to Vancouver and makes their tour booking process a little bit easier:)

s.

Western Canada Tour Dates

Hello Friends,

After months of knocking down the doors of venues while on a mission to book a tour, I've finally completed the itinerary and can't wait to hit the road in May! We (Paul, Jeff, Jesse, Phyllis, Myself) will be piling into the band wagon and charging out into Canada's great West! In just under 2 weeks, we'll be playing 10 shows and may be coming to your city!

So spread the word......and let us know which city your in!


STEF LANG WESTERN CANADA TOUR

May 6	The Minstrel Cafe	Kelowna, B.C.
May 7	The Royal Bar and Grill	Nelson, B.C.
May 8	Rockwater Bar and Grill	Golden, B.C.
May 9	The Ironwood	Calgary, A.B.
May 10	Tracks Pub	Olds, A.B.
May 11	Brixx Bar and Grill	Edmonton, A.B.
May 12	Better Than Freds	Grande Prairie, A.B.
May 13	Riverstone Bar and Grill	Prince George, B.C.
May 14	Comer Station Pub	Williams Lake, B.C.
May 15	Pogue Mahone	Kamloops, B.C.

Hipjoint House

Today,
I am feeling the urge to describe to you what goes on here @ the Hipjoint House in more detail.
We are a production/recording studio (Hipjoint Productions) that also has a music publishing side (H-Songs) located in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

We are a happy family of five. Mike James and Troy Samson are the owners/writers. Phil Lehmann is the head engineer and fantastic producer. Lillian Henriques is also an exceptional producer.

In 2006, I began @ Hipjoint as an intern, while continuing to write music, play shows etc. Spring 2008, Phil started teaching me the ropes in Logic. I learned how create all my own demos, and the boys were super cool by giving me a set of keys to the studio, allowing me to come in and work. Spring 2009 I signed to Nettwerk One and H-Songs Publishing, becoming the first writer on roster to H-Songs in history!

The record that we are currently working on is my debut album coming (June 1st 2010)
This is also the first project that ALL of us, have sat down together to focus our talents and efforts to collectively create with a great sounding record.

We are as diverse in age and ethnicity as we are in our strengths and personalities, which is why we make such a great team.

Over the last four weeks, we've come together to write, record, produce music AND to listen to eachothers point of view, express our opinions, walk eachother through our creative processes, and most imprtantly, to support one another.

It's been an incredible learning experience and I just wanted to take a moment to show gratitude towards Hipjoint. I love our family. I love what we do. Thank you for the adventure:)

Week #4 - Mixing The Album

Producer - Phil Lehmann



Hello friends,

We're on our 4th week of the project - we are mixing some tunes for the record with Phil Lehmann. Everything is sounding great so far! Really looking forward to the finished product.

Meanwhile, I've been putting together my MITAP application for Music BC due Feb 1st. (I'm applying for a touring grant for our Western Canada Tour coming up in May)

For those of you that might not know, Music BC has a program called MITAP (Music Industry Travel Assistance Program) for which you can apply for a grant if you go out on tour, or perform at a showcase - additional funding always comes in handy!

For more info
http://www.musicbc.org/?page_id=206

In The Studio....

Hi Friends,
Currently in the studio @ Hipjoint working on the production for "Slave2Love" (co-written with Mike James, Troy Samson) that will be on the new album (drops June1st 2010)

I'm very excited about how the record is shaping up thus far. Myself and the Hipjoint team have dedicated the month of January to writing, recording and producing a full-length album. The first week, we co-wrote 2 new songs, "The Phoenix" a.k.a bad-ass hip hop track, and "Be Gental" a.k.a. heart breaker! The second week was focused on recording 4 vocals to 4 different tracks - "Slave2love," "The Phoenix," "Be Gental" and "Closet Freak" (written with Hawksley Workman, Greg Johnston)

We are now onto our 3rd week, dedicated to wrapping up productions on all the tunes!
Troy Samson is working his magic right now as we speak, the production is becoming massive! (organs, strings and a ridiculously large sounding snare:)

I'll also be in after hours this evening working on the production of "Closet Freak"
Stay tuned!

love
s.

Headed for 2010 Olympics

Great news was recieved today...

Edgewater Open Stage (old Plaza of Nations) set to take place Feb 12-28 for The Olympic Celebrations.

17 days of straight entertainment featuring a wide variety of talent!
It is expected to have 180,000 visitors circulating per day during the Olympic festivities.

I've been fortunate enough to have been selected for two slots.
One will be a solo set during the first week, and the second will be a full band performance in the following week

Exact dates are TBA.

stay tuned:)

Stef Lang Blog Launch!!!

Welcome to my blog site!

I've created this page with the intention of making a connection with friends, fans, music-lovers, knowledge seekers, all types of creative people, and especially internet junkies, fellow bloggers.

Here, I will keep you up to date with the latest on my music,

(new songs, records, gigs, tours, news, interesting facts on the local music scene, etc!)

I also intend to write about various other non-music related subjects as well.

Please enjoy! respond, post, connect:)

happy blogging

s.