Broke* Screening at F/M Festival

At the Philadelphia Film and Music Festival, I was invited to check out a screening of a film called Broke*. The screening was at Invincible Films, which was a very interesting space. The film was created by singer/songwriter Will Gray and was all about what it takes to “break” as an artist in today’s music industry. Broke* was a very compelling tale of the ups and downs of working as an independent artist. The film explored the current record label models and how they are failing. A great film for others in the industry, we got to see such a human side to those simply trying to sustain through their craft. We often think about the music megastars, but what about those who just want to create music as a career? Gray let us into the debt he racked up by going out on tour. He showed us the torment he faced, that he couldn’t pay his musicians what they were actually worth, but they were so honored just to play with him so they played anyway. Even throughout the filming of the documentary, his good friend and band mate found herself in the midst of a divorce. It was one of the most compelling parts of the film. Gray’s music was very honest, an interesting mix of hip-hop, soul, blues, and grassroots music I was very intrigued. I also appreciated the fact that Gray took the time to feature music from many of the other artists that gave interviews in the film. So many talented people that have had their share of label meetings, deals, and for one reason or another have ended up doing it themselves. The fact of the matter for me is, although there is a lot that labels can provide mainly DOLLARS … the industry is in a good place where artists are regaining control over their art. If you already have to have a fan base in place, selling your own CDs, doing shows in order to remotely have a label pay attention to you, then you have a lot more bargaining power when you come to the table. I was excited to hear that Gray recently locked in a publishing deal with Warner and for the last 4 months has been in various writing camps. He even had a meeting with Roc Nation close to the time that the film was screening here in Philly. THERE IS HOPE! As a writer, that is of course one of the things that I hope I am working towards. But I have taken note from many independent artists, writers have to market themselves as well, secure placements, etc. on their own before anyone will pay attention. I’m working on it. To check out more information on the Broke* Documentary, check out www.brokedoc.com.