Showing posts with label namm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label namm. Show all posts

NAMM: my top tips for surviving and thriving at the worlds greatest music show



NAMM 

Number one tip:

Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands! 

Also, If you already have the lurgy, (aka NAMMTHRAX) have some tissues, throw them away after use, wash your hands and don't shake people's hands, don't cough on people.


Transport to and from NAMM.

If you are flying in to LAX, be prepared for the migration process. Act normally, follow the guidance, get yourself scanned. You will need your landing card as well if not a US citizen.  Don't forget any Visa, Visa waivers, passport.  I have been through and it's taken anywhere from 40 minutes to 3 hours to get through. (yes I lost my luggage as well) . Tip here is make sure you have some spare stuff in your hand luggage.

After passport check, pick up luggage and head for customs control, again there are likely to be queues here as well. Then it's off to Anaheim if that is where your headed.


  • Bus is cheapest
  • Uber Ola, not you have to go off site by bus to get these now, Share if you can
  • Taxi. Share if you can to reduce the costs!


Courtesy


  • There are a lot of people at NAMM
  • There are a lot of booths at NAMM
  • There are a lot of halls at NAMM

You will not see it all! So be nice and gracious to those you meet. There are people from all over the world who are there doing their job, it's not a holiday (although it might feel like it at times). The most important aspect of NAMM is to market and sell products, with some education on the side.

You might be a musician, this is a great opportunity to network with companies you use. If that is the case, you need a plan, some business cards etc, resume, etc  particularly if your looking for an endorsement, but remember the number one driver is marketing and selling gear, so if you don't have a significant following don't expect anything to come of it. Educate yourself  as there are also some great free education sessions that you can take advantage of.

Note , you won't be able to buy guitars at the show but you may be able to place orders. You can't take guitars in or out of the show unless you are a product demonstrator, and this is shown on your NAMM pass. Only people working on the booths will be allowed in before 10:00 AM, again this is shown on a NAMM pass to. Media passes are normally allowed into the foyer, 30 minutes before opening, but you can only go to the booths from 10:00 AM. There is a media area in the basement with good network and refreshments (although these run out quickly, but usually a good place for water, providing you have a media pass)



If you are a demonstrator, be professional, be on time, make time to check the location of the gig, get there on time to check your performance requirements. The company is also likely to have a storage area for your gear. Remember that you may not be able to hear your backing track, so rehearse a lot. Sound police patrol and can close down a booth and BAN a company from future NAMM shows. If you want respect and repeat visits to NAMM, do your job well and you'll be invited back. Your booth may also be making media  broadcasting live at the show. Note these as they will be good promo for you post show. (remember to add this to your curriculum vitae!)

Visitors, be aware of your surroundings. Let the demonstrator set up, it's not normally a good time for selfies as they are working with the company to prepare the demonstration. Don't block the isles. Take note that people with media passes are also doing a job creating content for companies, so don't get in their way. Again the prime objective of NAMM is marketing and selling gear, not your amusement. However both can be achieved with a little care and courtesy.



Visitors will note that there will be signing sessions by well known artists, these tend to have long queues and will consume time from seeing product demos. But you are likely to get a selfie with the artist if you take your time and wait nicely.

The NAMM pass

Get you pass on the Wednesday if you can. You will need your passport. Keep your passport secure, you will need this as proof and to get back on that aeroplane again. (US citizen probably use driving licence + photo ID).

Make sure you secure your  NAMM pass, as it can cost $100 for a replacement. So check the fastening and keep an eye on it when your walking around.


Planning

Chances are if you don't plan your visit you will miss the things and people you want to see. A plan will provide you better chance of meeting your goals. I use the NAMM app for this. it has all the locations and many of the product demo times.Remember that other people will have planned their and may not have time for an impromptu photo session/selfie as they will be on their way to the next demonstration. The place is VERY large, if you see people moving at speed, they usually have a plan. So don't be surprised if their time is limited. Fist bump and quick selfie might be the order of the day.

Clothing

I recommend taking twice daily changes of clothes, shoes and using the shower a number of times a day. I also take multiple pairs of walking shoes. If you are a female musician, suggest taking stage shoes for the photo opportunities in a spare bag. Note to all,sundown is 5:15pm so it will be dark when you leave the show, so it might be colder than anticipated. So what might be great for the sunny warm day, might leave you cold at night.


Bars in the hotels near the show are expensive but this is as to be expected.  If cash is tight, use a 7-11 they will sell alcohol, but I think you have to be 21 and be able to prove it. Remember to drink plenty of water!

There are lots of places to eat around the show use you google maps to locate. Much is in walking distance, but remember you might have walked many miles during the day.


During the day

I use Uber/Ola to get to and from the NAMM show. Share if you can to reduce your costs. There will be lots of cars, and even with the wide roads, traffic can be a nightmare. There is a lot of parking but it tends to be expensive.

Note any bags you take will be inspected by security guards on the way in and way out of the show. There are places to put coats(but I've never used them).


Some items to remember

  • Water
  • Cash for food
  • Comfortable shoes, you will walk miles
  • Alcohol wipes/hand wash (fist bump rather than handshake), please, always wash your hands.
  • Take ear plugs, some locations can be loud.
  • If you like chewing gum, buy it outside the show, they don't sell it inside.
  • Snack bar in case you get hungry and forgot your cash.
  • NAMM app to navigate you around the show.
  • Agenda in other format if NAMM app fails.
  • Wifi at NAMM can be poor.
  • So use 4G/5G if you have it(paid in advance, some people also buy a local SIM to get this access, the signal tends to be good in the building.)
  • Spare phone battery for longer disconnected use.
  • US to USB charger for you phone (purchase in 7-11 outside), there are some points where you can charge your phone.


Media guy?


  • Spare camera batteries
  • Lens Brushes
  • Additional phone battery if you taking video/ photos
  • Microphone, test it is working.
  • Test power to camera/video before you set off for NAMM.
  • Know that when your taking video, background noise can high. You might need to point the microphone towards the amp. Directional microphone will be better.
  • Make sure you don't get in the way of a  professional media guys who is creating content for the product.

The first real day is Thursday, so use this day to locate the booths that you want to visit. Great if you can memorise the locations in your head. Foot traffic is lighter on this day. Note where the WC locations are.  The higher floors are he bigger companies, they will have larger product presentation areas and possibly sounded stages for product demos. If your trying to create content at these locations, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to set up as the locations are sure to be popular for media outlets and visitors alike. Remember that there are many product demonstrations going on in parallel, so you can't see them all. So plan your show!

Note some elevators will be queued to limit the number of people using them this might delay you to your next product demonstration, so plan ahead and allow yourself time. Try and remember where the booths are, particularly their proximity.


In the evening

Remember to that when you buy something, the price shown is before tax, they then add on local and state taxes. There will also be plenty of bedroom jams, but don't be surprised if old guys like me fall asleep during the hottest of jam sessions!

There are a lot of free shows in NAMM, or in the local area. Some of the shows will require tickets so look out for them, listen to your network for opportunities. You might have to queue for entry. There are also some great shows where you will have to buy a ticket. These will feature great players, that won't often play together. Tickets for these shows are already available, like xjamm at M3 just down the road.





IMHO avoid too much alcohol etc, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Go out to eat with your friends. Don't jay walk. The roads are wide, so please use the traffic lights. Take care of yourself, I'd like to meet you at the next NAMM, because I missed you at this NAMM.

Next thing you know, it's all over and you will be flying home...  Have  a good trip home




Music Gear Network: Winter NAMM 2020 Survival Tips & What To Bring


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Winter NAMM 2020 Survival Tips & What To Bring

NAMM: Caparison Guitars | Gear Gods 2019



Caparison Guitars had some sick new colors and models added to their collection that were announced at the 2019 NAMM show -- check it!

NAMM 2019 - CAPARISON GUITARS | GEAR GODS

Peter Frampton: to Receive The Les Paul Innovation Award at 34thAnnual NAMM TEC Awards


Legendary Guitarist Peter Frampton to Receive The Les Paul Innovation Award at 34thAnnual NAMM TEC Awards

CARLSBAD, Calif.– December 6, 2018 –GRAMMY® award-winning guitarist, singer, songwriter, and innovator Peter Frampton will receive the prestigious Les Paul Innovation Award at the 34thAnnual NAMM Technical Excellence & Creativity Awards (NAMM TEC Awards), being held Saturday, January 26, 2019, in Anaheim, CA. The award is given to those individuals who personify the innovative thinking of Les Paul, the Father of Modern of Music. The Les Paul Foundation partners with NAMM each year to honorthe individuals that have set the highest standards of excellence in the creative application of recording technology, which also celebrates the legacy of the late, great Les Paul.

Frampton notes, “It is a distinct honor to receive the Les Paul Innovation Award. I would say that many of my career highlights occurred while holding an instrument in my hands that bears Les Paul’s name. I was lucky enough to know him personally, and I owe him so much. He was a wonderful character as well as a genius! An incredible guitar player as well as the inventor of so much music technology. Les changed the way we record forever. I can only hope that I’ve been able to make a fraction of the positive impact that Les Paul made in his iconic career.”

Frampton is one of music’s renaissance men, having begun a career in his early teens, and still making his mark today in the areas of recording and touring. A multi-platinum-selling artist, he recently celebrated the 42ndanniversary of his fifth solo album, Frampton Comes Alive!, an album that remains one of the top-selling live records of all time with over 17 million copies sold worldwide. In 2007 he won the GRAMMY award for “Best Pop Instrumental Album” for Fingerprintsand in 2014 was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame.

“Peter Frampton remains one of the most skillful and celebrated artists in rock history. He also was a friend of Les Paul’s and has played a pivotal role in helping the Foundation keep Les’s legacy alive,” shared Michael Braunstein, Executive Director, The Les Paul Foundation. “Like Les, he is an undeniable master of his instrument and in many ways ahead of his time. We are honored to have Peter join the impressive list of Les Paul Innovation Award recipients.”

Frampton’s storied career began at 16 as the lead singer and guitarist for the British bandThe Herd. By 18, he co-founded one of the first supergroups – the seminal rock actHumble Pie. His touring years have included work with a whos-who of the top names in music, such as David Bowie, Stevie Nicks, Gregg Allman, Ringo Starr, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Cheap Trick, Steve Miller Band, Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings, and many others. Additionally, he took his eponymous Peter Frampton's Guitar Circus on the road for two years with special guests B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Vince Gill, Larry Carlton, Robert Randolph, Don Felder (formerly of The Eagles), Dean DeLeo (Stone Temple Pilots), Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Sonny Landreth, Robert Cray, and Roger McGuinn (The Byrds).

His session work includes collaborations with artists who have made their mark on the industry including George Harrison, Harry Nilsson, Jerry Lee Lewis, John Entwistle, Mike McCready, and Matt Cameron (Pearl Jam), among many others.

Frampton’s talent has also stretched beyond music and into the realm of television and film. He was called upon by Oscar-winning writer/director Cameron Crowe to serve as technical advisor for the film Almost Famous (2000) and even appeared in the film and composed several songs for the soundtrack. Frampton has appeared as himself in The Simpsons and Family Guy.

Les Paul invented the solid body electric guitar, multi-track recording, overdubbing, echo, reverb and numerous other recording techniques. Without Les Paul, the music industry would not be what it is today. He is often called the “Father of Modern Music,” “The Wizard of Waukesha” and even the “Thomas Edison of Music.” Les founded the Foundation prior to his passing and wanted to inspire young people to invent, create, innovate, and get involved in music while exploring their own creative ideas. Today, The Les Paul Foundation works with organizations throughout the country in support of music education, engineering, and medical research. The Les Paul Innovation Award at NAMM and the Les Paul Spirit Award are two of the most prestigious awards celebrated by the Foundation.

With the honor, Frampton joins Jackson Browne, Joe Perry (Aerosmith), Don Was, Slash, Todd Rundgren, Pete Townshend, Steve Vai, and others,who have received the Les Paul Innovation Award since it began in 1991.

PRS: NAMM 2019 details announced




The 2019 NAMM Show returns to the newly-expanded Anaheim Convention Center January 25-28, 2019. In addition to the tradeshow itself, there will be countless performances in the surrounding area as part of the Bands @ NAMM program. Several PRS Artists have been chosen to perform this year, including The Paul Reed Smith Band. Check out the below schedule for details.

Wednesday, January 23rd
10pm – Magnolia Boulevard – Hilton Lobby

Thursday, January 24th
3pm – Boscoe France – Arena Plaza Stage
9pm – PRS Band – Hilton Lobby

Friday, January 25th
10pm – Keys & Corridors – Hilton Lobby

“We are thrilled that NAMM has recognized these artists, including our own Paul Reed Smith,” said Bev Fowler, Director of Artist Relations. “The Winter NAMM show is the biggest industry event of the year. Having our artists recognized in this way is a great way to add to the celebration and kick off a new year.”

In addition to these performances, PRS will once again be displaying our electric guitars, acoustics, amplifiers, and accessories offerings in room 210A. While not open to the public, the NAMM show is a great way for brands, manufacturers, dealers, distributors, media, and artists to come together and push the industry forward. Additional attending artists include, Jakko Jakszyk of King Crimson, X, Y, and Z.

To follow along with PRS at the show, follow @prsguitars and #NAMM2019 on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or check out the Inside PRS blog at www.prsguitars.com/blog.

About PRS Guitars:
Paul Reed Smith Guitars is a leading manufacturer of high-quality instruments in Stevensville, Maryland and has provided some of the world’s most renowned musicians with instruments since 1985. The PRS team of highly skilled craftspeople design and build a wide variety of musical instruments and gear for worldwide distribution, including electric, acoustic, and bass guitars as well as boutique-style guitar amplifiers. The PRS SE line of products complements the Maryland-made PRS line by offering highly approachable and more affordable electric, acoustic, and bass guitars. Carlos Santana, John Mayer, Mark Tremonti, Mark Holcomb of Periphery, Zach Myers of Shinedown, Jimmy Herring, Orianthi, David Grissom, Blake Shelton, Martin Simpson, and Tony McManus are among the artists currently playing PRS instruments and/or amplifiers.

PRS Guitars Info: www.prsguitars.com

NAMM: GHS Strings Brings Acoustic “Sounds of Obsession” To NAMM 2018




GHS Strings Brings Acoustic “Sounds of Obsession” To NAMM 2018

Battle Creek, MI, 9th January 2018 – GHS Strings is excited to announce for this year’s NAMM they have one of their most diverse and wide range of endorsees appearing at their booth, located in Hall D, #4614.

As their latest ad states, “the only people more obsessed with our strings are our artists” and GHS is planning on showcasing them. From ukulele to electric bass, acoustic to electric guitar, each artist has a unique story to tell about their musical obsession and what they’re relentless about.

The latest schedule is below; please visit http://www.ghsstrings.com/articles/2008874-ghs-announces-namm-artist-appearances for the most up-to-date schedule.

THURS, JAN 25th
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza (acoustic guitar, demo)
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes (acoustic guitar, demo)

FRI, JAN 26th
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza (acoustic guitar, demo)
11:30am - Andrew Molina (ukulele)
12:00pm - Andrew Molina (ukulele, demo)
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes (acoustic guitar, demo)

Sat, JAN 27th
10:00am - Craig Chee & Sarah Maisel (ukulele)
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza (acoustic guitar, demo)
12:30pm - Salvatore Spinelli (acoustic guitar)
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes (acoustic guitar, demo)

Stop by Hall D, #4614 to hear why so many artists “Play With the Best!”

To find out about all the GHS products, please visit http://www.ghsstrings.com.


With the coming of NAMM 2018, we wanted to try something different. As our latest ad states, "the only people more obsessed with our strings are our artists," and we want to showcase them. Every half hour at the NAMM show, GHS will have their artists on stage, either talking about their passion and inspiration, or demoing their favorite strings. Some are artists that we've had in our family for years (or, even decades) and some are fairly new to our family.
Regardless of their time spent with us, each has a unique story that tells about their obsession, and what they're relentless about. Please visit us in Hall D, #4614 to "hear what obsession sounds like." 
*Please note: all demonstrations are in italics*
THURS, JAN 25
10:30am - Tony Puleo
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza
11:30am - Rene Benton
12:00pm - Claudio Cordero
12:30pm - Michael Tash
1:00pm - Brad Russell
1:30pm - Evan Marien
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes
2:30pm - Matthew Phillips
3:00pm - Jason Achilles Mezilis
4:00pm - Stu Hamm
4:30pm - Fred Brum
5:00pm - Jonathan Moody
5:30pm - Jeff Coffey
FRI, JAN 26
10:30am - Darrius Jamar
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza
11:30am - Andrew Molina
12:00pm - Andrew Molina
12:30pm - Kilian Duarte
1:00pm - Brad Russell
1:30pm - Wayne Wilkinson
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes
2:30pm - Nikki Stringfield
3:00pm - Jason Achilles Mezilis
3:30pm - Keven Eknes
4:00pm - Stu Hamm
4:30pm - Dave Dunsire
5:00pm - Gary Hoey
5:30pm - Will Yanez
SAT, JAN 27
10:00am - Craig Chee & Sarah Maisel
11:00am - Raye Zaragoza
11:30am - Scott Whitley
12:00pm - Eric Steckel
12:30pm - Salvatore Spinelli
1:00pm - Brad Russell
1:30pm - Chris Schreiner
2:00pm - Doyle Dykes
2:30pm - Brian Klemm
3:00pm - Jason Achilles Mezilis
3:30pm - Melia Maccarone
4:00pm - Stu Hamm
4:30pm - Element a440
5:00pm - Gary Hoey

Dean Cascione: Lizard Spit Winter NAMM 2018 Guitar Preview



American Neoclassic Guitarist / Lizard Spit Artist Dean Cascione takes the 2018 Lizard Spit Winter NAMM Special Edition DC Custom scalloped neck guitar for a test drive!

Dean Cascione Lizard Spit Winter NAMM 2018 Guitar Preview

Roopam Garg: announces as winner of NAMM President’s Innovation Scholarship for 2018



Roopam Garg
I'm proud to have received the NAMM President’s Innovation Scholarship for 2018!

Can't wait to meet up with you all at the NAMM Show this January! Who will I be seeing thereEcho End Digital Guitar Booklet
from The Surrealist



The Complete Guitar Transcription for The Surrealist's 2017 single "Echo End".

https://thesurrealist.bandcamp.com/merch/echo-end-digital-guitar-booklet

This purchase comes with the complete Guitar Pro files for the entire track (guitars only).
Print-Ready PDF included.

Tuning (7-string): B E A D G B E

Roopam Garg plays 'LUX' by The Surrealist

David Maxim Micic: Live At The Dunlop Booth NAMM 2017



Visit http://www.jimdunlop.com/ to learn more about the new products available from Dunlop for 2017

For more information about David Maxim Micic please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/davidmaximmi...
https://davidmaximmicic.bandcamp.com/

SPECIAL THANKS:
Zoom Audio (recorded on a F8 field mixer)
Mesa Boogie Amps (David is playing through a Triple Crown 50)
Universal Audio (DAW interface and Plug ins)

NAMM 2017: David Maxim Micic Live At The Dunlop Booth

Scott Gailor: "Don't be that guy" NAMM Edition 2017 T.J.C.



A quick vlog about what not to do at Namm.

Scott Gailor - "Don't be that guy" Namm Edition 2017 T.J.C.

Larry Mitchell, Monette Marino, Frank Steffen Mueller: Larry Mitchell & Friends at Marriott | Godin Multiac



NAMM 2017: Larry Mitchell, Monette Marino & Frank Steffen Mueller playing "Tears of a woman".
Thanks to Godin Guitars (OFFICIAL) for the fantastic Multiac Nylon!

Enjoy this happy song!

NAMM 2017: Larry Mitchell & Friends at Marriott | Godin Multiac

Tom Quayle: playing at Laney booth 2017 NAMM



Tom Quayle playing at Laney booth [2017 NAMM]

"Please subscribe my channel if you enjoyed this music! Thanks!"
### www.facebook.com/josephyunofficalpage ###

Tom Quayle playing at Laney booth [2017 NAMM]

Plini, Aaron Marshall: Live At The Dunlop Booth NAMM 2017



Visit http://www.jimdunlop.com/ to learn more about the new products available from Dunlop for 2017

For more information about these artists please visit:
Plini https://www.facebook.com/PLINI/
Aaron Marshall www.facebook.com/intervalsmusic

SPECIAL THANKS:
Zoom Audio (recorded on a F8 field mixer)
Mesa Boogie Amps (Aaron is playing through a Triple Crown 50)
Two Rock Amps (Plini is playing through a Studio Pro 22)
Universal Audio (DAW interface and Plug ins)

NAMM 2017: Plini & Aaron Marshall Live At The Dunlop Booth -Pt 1


NAMM 2017: Plini & Aaron Marshall Live At The Dunlop Booth -Pt 2

Felix Martin: Live At Dunlop Booth NAMM 2017




Visit http://www.jimdunlop.com/ to learn more about the new products available from Dunlop for 2017

For more information about Felix Martin please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/felixmartinm...
http://www.felixmartin.net/home

SPECIAL THANKS:
Zoom Audio (recorded on a F8 field mixer)
Carr Amps (Felix is playing through a Sportsman 1-12 Combo)
Universal Audio (DAW interface and Plug ins)

NAMM 2017: Felix Martin Live At Dunlop Booth

Jason Richardson: Titan, Fragments and Breaking Damnation Ernie Ball Booth NAMM 2017



This is Jason Richardson performing his song ''Titan'' at the NAMM 2017 19th Jan, hope you guys enjoy it!

Jason Richardson performing ''Titan'' at NAMM 2017


Jason Richardson performing ''Fragments'' at NAMM 2017


Jason Richardson performing ''Breaking Damnation'' at NAMM 2017