TAXI Transmitter July 2008 Member Deals: record deals, film & TV music placement and publishing by members

		From a previous connection he made through TAXI two years ago with his song “Free,” Robert and his co-writer Dave W. were recently informed that their song was featured on the May 16 season finale episode of “America’s Funniest Home Videos.” With all the options set to be picked up by the company, the licensing fees would total approximately $20,000! This airing would be noted as the single largest licensing fee this music publishing company has ever received for a TV placement. Here’s what Robert had to say: “I never would have made this connection without TAXI and I’ve also realized that patience is the name of the game! Patience and consistency.”

		TAXI member Jonny Blu was recently informed that Universal Music in Eastern Europe will be releasing his first Swing/Pop album in mid-June. His band will fly to Europe to play live, and will also play on national TV. “It all started with a placement (through TAXI) of one of my songs, “Girl From Ipanema,” on a Jazz compilation CD and they ended up liking my whole album so much they asked me if I’d be up for having it released... I couldn’t exactly say no.”

		A February 2008 episode of NBC’s “Lipstick Jungle” featured TAXI member Jeff Lopez’s song, “Prospects.” “TAXI has helped me find a way of getting a little extra money to help finance the recordings of my compositions. It also gives me a little validation as a composer and a little hope that with some hard work and persistence, I can compose music full-time,” Jeff said.

		Hip-Hop artist and TAXI member Harvey Roundtree Jr. recently signed his album The Unexpected, They Made Me to an independent music distributor. It took six months to hear back from the company after the forward through TAXI, but it resulted in his CD getting exposure to 400+ markets online, and the possibility to be sold in stores such as Best Buy, Wal-Mart, K-Mart, and Target. “TAXI has helped me tremendously by providing me with the chance to be in way more markets than I could have been in alone. This deal will definitely create a greater opportunity for more sales and exposure,” he said.

		As a direct result of a TAXI forward, Stephen Baird was hired as a staff composer on a very popular daytime talk show to produce Urban Instrumentals. And as an active member on the TAXI forum, Stephen collaborated with another TAXI member on some Hip-Hop tracks. They ended up signing two songs with a publisher, and the publisher requested several more songs. “What a great investment your company has been! I will definitely be renewing! You guys are changing my life one listing at a time! THANK YOU TAXI!!!!!!” he said.

		TAXI Member James Henderson recently received a phone call from the director of an independent film company and the director ended up licensing James’ songs “We Stay The Same,” “Today’s The Day,” and two others he wrote specifically for the film. The songs were placed in the Indie film Graduation, which was scheduled to release in early May 2008. “The most significant way TAXI has helped me and my career is to make good on their promise: they get my music into the hands of people who can do something with it. I am quite certain my list of musical accomplishments would be a lot lighter without TAXI. I get excited and inspired every time a listing arrives in my INBOX that fits my style,” he said.

		“Dreaming in Colored Waters,” a song by TAXI member Darrin Frison, was chosen to be placed in an upcoming Logo/MTV series, “Gimme Sugar.” “After sitting down and catching my breath, I was like, ‘WHA?!?!’ Then, ‘WHOO HOO!!’ It was exciting! I had been forwarded before, but this was the first IMMEDIATE response I had gotten from the company it was forwarded to, and for it to be for Logo/MTV made it even more amazing!” he said.

		Brad Paxton’s Indie Rock song “I’m Gonna Change” was featured in CBS’s “Cold Case.” It was in the “Spiders” episode, which aired in February. “This was my first deal ever, and the fact that a highly-rated TV show was interested in music that I wrote and recorded in my bedroom, well, it was just hugely validating,” he said.

		Dean Krippaehne’s song “Do Your Thing” was picked up by an artist in Germany named Stefanie Heinzmann. Her album was released in March and debuted at #8 on Billboard’s European Top 100 Charts. “I was obviously quite stoked when I found out that a new artist on Universal had cut one of my songs, but I had no idea who Stefanie Heinzmann was at the time. It was only after I Googled her and found out that she had just won Germany's version of “American Idol,” had exposure to millions of TV viewers, and already had a single sitting at #3 on Germany's top 100 charts that I started feel really lucky to have landed on her CD,” Dean said.

		Barbara Martin’s song “Ready for Love” was featured on a March 31 episode of ABC Family’s “Greek.” Actress Amber Vox sang the song with the instrumental tracks from Barbara’s CD. “This was the biggest thing that had happened for me with my songwriting,” she said.

		Jean Custeau’s song, “Deux Millions D’etoiles” was played during the February 1 episode of USA’s “Monk.” "I've been member of TAXI since September 2007 and I'm surely convinced, it's the best thing in my over-30-years of my musical life,” he said.

		Because of a deal with a music library, a documentary called “I Love What I Do” featured Glenn Shambroom’s song “Flexible Flyer.” His song “Shoulder Blade” was also used in an episode of “Quarterlife,” which was recently picked up by NBC. “Before joining TAXI, I had no idea about music libraries, or how to get my music in the hands of people who can make use of it,” he said.

		Steve and Karen Multer have recently confirmed that they've signed licensing deals with more than seven different music libraries. Deals thus far have ranged from placements on CBS’s “CSI” music in opening and closing credits of "Ossobucco" (Riverwest Films) starring Illeana Douglas and Mike Star. Their song “Look Out For Love” was also added to a three-disc Jazz compilation album for distribution in Europe. "Everybody thinks their material is great, but a brilliant resource like TAXI is the key to getting perspective and putting your music to the test,” they said.

		Gabriele Bazzi Berneri, a TAXI member all the way in Italy, had his song “Murders Mansion” featured in ABC’s “Dirty Sexy Money” through an established and high-profile LA-based music library. “I felt very excited about [the deal], not only for the money, but also because I’m very fond of film/TV music,” he said.

		TAXI member Will Derryberry had his song “Seven” placed in NBC’s “Life.” Another NBC show, “Friday Night Lights,” used his song “Where Your Heart Lives.” “[TAXI is] really helping Indie songwriters like myself achieve things that weren't possible 15 years ago,” Will said.

		“The Lucky Ones,” an upcoming film from Lionsgate, used one of TAXI member Joe Aukofer’s songs, “Same Old.” The movie stars Tim Robbins and Rachel McAdams. “I was very humbled by the news, actually. Given the amount of amazing songs and great talent out there, I feel very fortunate to have one of my songs included in this movie,” he said.

		TAXI member Ted Fox recently signed a four-year exclusive contract with the owner of a Texas-based music production library for two of his instrumentals: “Sagebrush & Orchids” and “Song for the “Quilt.” “I live in a VERY small, isolated mountain town of about 4,000-6,000 people. My music would NEVER have gotten into the right hands if it weren't for TAXI,” Ted said.

		TAXI member Ross Seligman and his band Echo Helstorm will have their song played during a February 18, 2008 episode of “One Tree Hill.” The band’s song is called “Where I Sleep.” “When we got the call about the song being in the show, we were ecstatic. It took a lot of hard work, time, and endless patience but it is worth all of it. We are hoping this is the beginning of more!” Ross said.

		Dan, Jeremy, and Theresa Brooks (also known as Apocalypse Cow) had their Blues song “Been Down So Long” placed in an episode of ABC’s “Samantha Who?” “It was very career affirming to hear our music on primetime. All the countless hours we've spent composing and marketing are finally paying off (literally),” Theresa said.

		Still raking in the benefits from the music library/publisher she was signed with through TAXI, Susan Nikas’s song, “Yellow Van,” was recently placed in the Lifetime TV Movie called Gossip, which is being released in 2008. “I credit TAXI with improving my writing, with expanding my musical contacts, and generally encouraging me. Sometimes the comments on my songs have been ‘tough love’ but they have definitely forced me to improve and grow,” she said.

		TAXI member Bill Gaunce’s song “Midnight Train” will be included in an upcoming Indie horror movie called The 13th Alley. “I was very surprised when I was contacted with the news that my song ‘Midnight Train’ was going to be placed in a movie called The 13th Alley. The song had been forwarded twice before so I guess the third time was the charm,” Bill said.

		TAXI member Stan Swiniarski recently landed a few deals through TAXI. His song, “All Up, All In,” was featured in an episode of the Discovery Health Channel’s Lost It. He also received a four-song licensing deal with an LA-based music library. The songs included in that deal were: “Mexico,” “One Sunset at a Time,” “Sweet Destiny,” and “End of the Rope.” He also signed a licensing deal for one of his songs with a U.K.-based publishing company. “TAXI has really helped me by providing a channel for my non-Country music and compositions,” he said.

		Through a listing requesting vintage ’80s material, TAXI member Beth Scalet signed a two-song deal with a music library. The songs in the deal are “In the Daylight” and “Missing You.” “TAXI helped my career by bringing me this opportunity to capitalize on some of my older material and give me my first official ‘break’ into publishing. Previously, all my material was available on my own Indie releases. This opportunity is also a film/TV opportunity, an area I knew nothing about before joining TAXI,” she said.

		Maine TAXI member Gary Sredzienski’s song “Tuscan Stroll” was recently placed in ABC’s Dirty Sexy Money and is also slated to appear in CBS’s Everybody Hates Chris. “I am doing this from the total opposite end of the continent... in Maine... I just keep on submitting stuff to all kids of listings. You just never know,” he said.

		CBS’s Everybody Hates Chris will feature TAXI member Brad Mersereau’s Christmas Carol in a December 10 episode. “I believe my Christmas Carol's message is universal and timely: ‘Why can’t there be a Christmas Carol sung in the spring and summer too? Look in the mirror to discover the love that lives in you,’” he said.

		TAXI member Joe Curtis had two of his songs, “Sing His Praises” and “Caught in a Rainstorm,” placed on the Friday Night Lights DVDs. Joe received this deal after connecting with a prominent West Coast-based music publisher through TAXI.

		TAXI member Kent Marcum received a 20-song deal with Harpo Productions. “I was happy about [the deal] and knew that a Harpo placement was another vehicle to get my music into other places. I was actually more excited when a fellow musician called me and told me that she had heard one of my songs on a Harpo television show,” he said. “Without TAXI I would not be able to say that my music has been heard on one of the most highly rated shows on network television.”

		Dreamtime Lullabies will feature TAXI member Colin S. O’Dwyer’s song “Your Dreams Wait for You” as its title track. The CD is being released internationally The American Institute for Arts and Communities. “After having dozens of forwards, I was thrilled when my song was selected for the project. It was my first deal through TAXI. Soon after I signed 17 Pop/Rock songs to two separate music libraries through TAXI as well,” he said.

		TAXI member Al Jewer and his co-writer Andy landed a deal for their song “Walk to the Water” with an Executive Producer of a children’s TV show. The song will accompany underwater shots of sea turtles. The song will also be featured on the DVD project. “TAXI has helped us by both allowing us to get music to new clients as well as providing an outlet for more meditative and healing music. This genre is again gaining in popularity, and TAXI provides an excellent opportunity for us to find producers looking for it,” he said.

		TAXI member Bryan Bryant’s song “Come Back” was used in an episode All My Children. “TAXI has offered me an outlet to some great resources! I’ve not only received national airplay on ABC, but it has help give credibility to my music and encouragement to pursue further musical endeavors,” he said.

		Marla Lewis, a full-time elementary school teacher and TAXI member, received a placement with a Los Angeles-based publishing company for her song “Jackson Avenue.” “TAXI is a great gateway for folks like us who don’t ‘know anybody.’ It broadens the playing field of opportunities so that anyone with talent and perseverance has an honest shot at actually getting somewhere,” she said.

		The Friday Night Lights boxed set features “Can’t Call This House a Home” by TAXI member Brian Emmert and his band, Saints and Sinners. He then received a five-year publishing deal with an independent label/publisher. “We did not really know what kind of results to expect from TAXI, but we signed up and hoped for the best. When we found out that one of our songs was going to be included on the Friday Night Lights Box set, we were thrilled,” he said.

		TAXI member Stephen Snider signed a 13-song publishing deal with a West Coast library. Two of his songs, “One More Situation” and “That’s All I Know,” were placed in the Northern Exposure 6th season DVD collection. His song, “Another Trainwreck,” was used in an episode of NBC’s Friday Night Lights. “We never would have gotten these songs to the proper people without TAXI,” he said.

		Mary Thompstone, a TAXI member from Ireland, signed a deal with a Nashville-based publisher for film and TV opportunities. “I find TAXI easy to use and with the time difference, I can work peacefully at night with no interruptions on the site,” she said.

		In the past year, TAXI member Joe Curtis has signed 20 songs to four different music publishers.

		“If You Ain’t Got the Money,” a song by TAXI member Marty Attridge, aired during an April 15 episode of CBS’s drama Without a Trace. “It was very exciting to hear one of our songs on a major TV series. It was our first placement. Being a songwriter/musician for many years it is very gratifying to gain some recognition,” he said.

		MTV licensed six of TAXI member Margaret McClure’s songs for two of its shows Taquita & Kaui and Making the Band. The songs are: “Make U,” “I'm In Love With Your Boyfriend,” “Hey Angel,” “The Edge,” “If it Was You,” and “Outside.” “I was happy about [the deal] and will continue to have a good working relationship with MTV,” she said.

		TAXI member Ben Connelly signed a 10-song deal with a music publisher for placement in film and TV projects. “ ... I see this deal as potentially bringing up my income from songwriting a bit. And, of course more people will hopefully hear my music,” Ben said.

		TAXI member Denny Earnest had six of his Hawaiian and Reggae tunes placed in National Lampoon’s Bag Boy, due out later this year. “I'll be excited sitting there listening, and watching the credits. One of my goals was to sit in a theatre and watch my name in the credits,” he said.

		TAXI member Brad Mersereau had two songs, “Song for Sanya” and “Feeling Lucky” placed in the Chris Rock film I Think I Love My Wife. ABC’s Ugly Betty also featured one of Brad’s songs, “Departure,” in a recent episode. “Tune placement in movies and/or television has been a lifelong dream... it was a... total thrill not only to hear my music, but also to receive two composition credits and two performance credits on the big screen,” he said.

		Warner Bros.’s Spring Breakdown will feature one of TAXI member Todd Sloan’s songs, “(She’s) Kickin’ my Ass.” “I will say getting that first placement, especially in a film, was a nice boost to keep at it—it made me feel that the time and money I was spending on recording and marketing the music was worth it,” he said.

		TAXI members Chuck Henry and Vince Constantino recently had their tracks included on a smooth Jazz compilation CD released by Sony/BMG. The CD has gone triple platinum in Poland. Chuck’s song on the CD is called “Mosaic” and Vince’s is called “Deep Dark Blue.” Regarding the deal, Vince said: “I was obviously really happy to hear my song was chosen, as I know there are tons of talented people making music out there who submit to TAXI. What blew me away, though, was reading the list of other artists on the disc: Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Natalie Cole, Frank Sinatra, George Bensen, Tony Bennett, Basia, Louis Armstrong, Gladys Knight, Miles Davis. Needless to say, I was humbled to see my name next to theirs and to know my song would be heard out of the same CD players around the world as their timeless music will be.” Chuck also credited TAXI for his recent success: “I don't think I'd be where I am today without TAXI. It has been so valuable to me in many ways. Aside from getting a record deal and lots of publishing deals from TAXI, it has helped me even more so in other, more indirect ways.”

		TAXI member Ron Ermini had two of his songs, "When You've Had Enough" and "I'm Crazy 'Bout You," placed in a recent episode of the hit Fox TV series "House."

		Colorado-based TAXI member Jody Adams had three songs placed in "Access Hollywood." The songs were "New Morning," "Solitaire," and "Ella's Walk." His song "Blue Dancer" was also featured in CW's "Gilmore Girls." "As my composing tastes have developed and changed over the years, TAXI's diverse and 'ever-changing' smorgasbord of list-requests allows me to find a place to submit the material," Jody said.

		TAXI member Ross Seligman signed with a Los Angeles-based music publisher. Ross and his band Echo Helstrom are based in Portland. "I really felt like I had broken through the gatekeepers to something potentially wonderful that I would never have had access to without TAXI. I love Portland Oregon and want to stay here, but many of the people I need to hear Echo Helstrom are in LA. Thanks to TAXI, I can live in Portland and still reach these people," he said.

		TAXI member Susan Nikas had two of her songs “Pay Your Money” and “Yellow Van” in ABC Family’s Wildfire. The songs aired during the January 15, 2007 episode of the show. “I have been a TAXI member since about 2000 and credit TAXI with all my improvements as far as song-writing is concerned,” she said.

		The feature film Weiners starring Jenny McCarthy will feature TAXI member Kent Forward’s song “Wanted Man.” “I was thrilled to hear the news. This placement was procured by the same publisher that placed a song of mine in the film The Last Ride starring Dennis Hopper, so that one TAXI submission and subsequent relationship with this publisher continues to pay off,” he said.

		TAXI member Glenn Shambroom signed an eight-song deal with a Los Angeles-based music publisher for film and TV projects. “I care a great deal about what I do (writing, recording, performing), but I don’t have much appetite, or time, for ‘beating the bushes,’ looking around for opportunities to get my music into the hands of the people who can really do something with it. TAXI gives me an easy way to connect with people who can make use of what I have to offer,” he said.

		TAXI member Raymond Barker had a Hip-Hop track in the DVD version of the NBC hit show Friday Night Lights. The song is called “Mr government.” Raymond has also had several songs in NBC’s The Black Donnellys. “TAXI has made me change my whole perspective on what I want to do in the music industry,” he said.

		Jogo Gomez signed a publishing deal with a West Coast company for his song “Why Is It,” a 1940s-style Jazz standard. When the TAXI member found out about the deal, he was “that much more fueled and inspired to keep on writing, submitting, advancing [himself], and getting that much better at doing the one thing [he loves] the most in life, and that is writing songs!”

		Blair Bielawski’s song “What A Day” was placed in the NBC show Las Vegas via an Arizona-based music library. The member’s song was played on the show during a December 2006 episode. Since then, two more of his songs were placed in the show. “No one connected with any network TV show would have found out about my music without the help of TAXI... The door TAXI opened for me made all the difference,” Blair said.

		TAXI member Bruce Hilton’s song “Can't Get Over You” was licensed for the CW TV series Veronica Mars. The song was featured during the November 28, 2006, episode of the show. Bruce was thrilled when he found out about the deal: “This was my first deal, and it cemented my confidence that I was on the right track with TAXI, and that I could repeat this success.”

		TAXI member Wayne Ammons signed a deal with a production library for his song “These Colors Don’t Run.” “TAXI has been a valuable resource. It’s helped me to sharpen my writing and recording skills as well as to understand the perspective of a professional songwriter,” Wayne said.

		Through TAXI, member Matt Hirt has had several songs placed on TV shows, including Access Hollywood, Standoff, The View, and Girlfriends. One of his songs will also appear in the new Chris Rock Movie I Think I Love My Wife, which is set to open in about a month.

		TAXI member Frank Longo landed a five-song deal with a major LA-based music publisher. “Many thanks to TAXI and all of the professional reviewers who were very helpful with their critiques,” he said.

		“A Moment Away” by TAXI Member Freddy Litwiniuk played in ABC’s Men in Trees. “I had only a brief description of how the song would be used, so I didn’t know exactly what to expect. When it came on, I was really excited, and felt a sense of accomplishment because I know how hard it is to get to each higher step in music; think of all the musicians competing for that placement. I felt like my hard work had been rewarded. It was a fantastic feeling, and I hope to feel it again soon,” Freddie said.

		In the two years that Steve Parrish has been a TAXI member, he’s signed four songs with a production music library, had a song placed in The N network’s South of Nowhere and Dane Cook’s Tourgasm on HBO. He’s also had one song placed in the Indy film Window Theory. “The pitching process through TAXI not only helped focus my writing, it helped me become more adept at knowing what to pitch for what listings. For the modest cost involved, TAXI has been a bargain!”

		TAXI Member Andy McCutcheon had his song “Devil's Favorite Angel” featured during the trailer, a scene, and closing credits for Shakespeare’s Richard III. “The film is slated for release this March, but the trailer, which features our song, is currently online, and seeing it for the first time was a real rush! I can’t wait for the opening this March, because the song is also being used in a crucial scene and the closing credits,” he said.

		TAXI member Robert Cooper had his song “Free” featured in an episode of ABC’s Men in Trees. “I spoke with the song’s co-writer, Dave Wilson, beforehand and we were both really hoping for a 5- or 10-second clip of the song—we would have been fine with that. You can imagine my surprise when the song came on and aired for an entire scene—a full 60 second clip... it was pretty sweet.”

		TAXI member Joe Aukofer signed a three-song deal with a production music library. The songs were “Same Old,” “Brother,” and “Take a Look.” “I originally joined TAXI solely for the bi-monthly listing service. I was looking for ways to get my music out there and heard. The opportunities available through this service alone have been immeasurable,” he said.

		TAXI member Michele Jusko had her song “Walk Away” placed in a TV commercial for St. Louis Hospital. “I think many of the companies that use TAXI have a long term relationship with them and therefore trust their judgment on the music they forward. It's much more likely that your music will get listened to via a TAXI forward then if you blindly submit to music industry people without any referral,” she said.

		Through several TAXI listings, member Steve Dafoe signed several of his songs to various music publishers: “Back as an Eagle,” “America’s Eagle,” “Last Great Cowboy,” “Storm of Days,” and “If I Asked.”

		TAXI member Jim Pearce had his song, “It’s You Again” placed in the Canadian show Robson Arms. The half-hour dramatic comedy series follows the lives of a group of tenants in Vancouver’s West End. “TAXI has been very good for motivation. It’s great to have somewhere to send the music once you have it recorded,” he said.

		TAXI member Dave Walton’s song, “Chalice,” was placed into a 30-minute “Feed the Children” program called Mary O Mary, which aired on ABC Family, WGN, Court TV, Inspiration Network, and BET. The program aired about 20 times per month for a two-month period over the summer. “It took a year and seven months from the TAXI forward to the actual placement into the show. This is definitely a business for patient people with long-term goals,” he said.

		After submitting her song “Leavin’” to a TAXI film/TV listing, member Sarah Lewis signed a non-exclusive deal with a music library/publisher. The publisher licensed “Leavin’” as well as three other songs from her band’s new album. “Getting my music into film and TV has been a priority for me these past couple of years. I’ve seen how quickly it broadens our fanbase, so having a company like that pitching my songs is awesome,” she said.

		Member Randy Rucker had his song “A Table for One” placed on A&E Biography: Travis Tritt. “I was happy to get a cut, but what stunned me was that I had written the song with Travis’s voice and style in mind and then to find out it will be on his biography program was just too much,” Randy said.

		Through numerous publishing deals, TAXI member Don Julin has had placements in a PBS special, The Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List (Bravo), four different episodes of Canada’s Sucré Salé, Beyond the Glory (Fox Sports), and MTV’s Real World/Road Rules Challenge.

		TAXI member Leanette Lopez signed a two-song deal with a TV music publisher. “TAXI has helped me effectively change musical direction... TAXI inspired me to release a whole new Latin CD since that’s what has received the best reviews. I’m already getting great feedback from fans,” she said.

		Through a TAXI listing, Australian member Ruth Roshan signed a single-song deal with an LA-based music library. “This is the second publishing deal I signed via TAXI, and as an Australian who writes world music it would have been virtually impossible to find publishers looking for my type of music without TAXI,” she said.

		TAXI member Shane Cooley had his song “Don’t Want to Be in the City” placed in the IFC TV show The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman. “I come from a small town in the middle of nowhere. Although I have broken through many walls to get my music heard by the outside, this was my first time to have a song placed on TV. I couldn’t believe it! I knew it was the beginning of bigger and better things, and that with a song on TV there would be more open doors,” he said.

		TAXI member Robert Porembski had his song “Feelin’ More Like Christmas” placed on CBS, BRAVO, and TRIO, and it is also used extensively in USA Network’s “12 Days of Christmas” campaign. “Because of TAXI, my Christmas song is a seasonal TV hit,” he said.

		Through TAXI, member Pat Flanakin had his song, “Hwo Dey Dey” placed in the film Van Vorst Park. The critically acclaimed Indie film stars Frank Vincent of The Sopranos. “It was very gratifying after working with so many of my tapes over the years that one of them actually went farther than the shelf above my studio! I just got a copy of the film and it was very exciting to hear my song in a few of the scenes,” he said.

		Member Mike Westbrock scored a publishing deal with a music library for his instrumental metal song, “Empty and Alone.” About the deal, he said, “I SERIOUSLY doubt that I would ever have gotten this song placed any other way than through TAXI. How many people want instrumental metal songs? Thanks for a great service!”

		TAXI member Barry Schleifer had one of his songs featured in two popular TV shows. “Returns & Exchanges,” appeared in UPN’s America’s Next Top Model as well as in WB’s Smallville. Also, ampm convenience stores selected Barry’s song “Hammond Cheese” for their national TV ad campaign.

		Through TAXI, member William Livesay licensed his song, “Somewhere,” to the film “El Mascarado Massacre” (the working title was “Wrestle Maniac”). When Livesay found out about the deal, his reaction was, “All right! It’s about time.” This is his third deal through TAXI, and he says TAXI critiques have helped validate him as a writer.

		Member Peter Rowley signed three songs to a production music library through TAXI: “EKG,” “Reveal,” and “Long Distance.” About the deal, he says, “For me this means that I am on the right track as an instrumental composer.”

		TAXI member Phil Bender-Stone’s song, “Café Garda,” appeared in UPN’s America’s Next Top Model. The popular show follows a group of models as they try to make it in the high-stress career.

		Through his deal with a music publisher, Scott Kovarik has had placements in Everwood, One Life to Live, and The Young and the Restless. He also had a song in the film Barely Legal.

		Ulf Pettersson signed a one-song deal with a publisher for his tune “Far Side”.

		Gabriel Wright licensed his song, “You’re Not Superman” to the Indie film, The Third Nail. The song was used in the end title cue of the movie.

		Freddie Mobley signed his song, “All I Want for Christmas” to a production music library.

		Michael Wheeler signed four songs, including his German accordion waltz “Alpine Sweethart,” to an online music licensing company.

		TAXI member Samantha Foster signed a two-song deal with a music publisher. The songs were “Same Ol Weather” and “Big Blue Light,” which she co-wrote with TAXI member Kenny Marshall.

		Margaret Bernstein, TAXI member, signed a six-song deal with a west coast-based music library for her songs: “Lives Alone,” “Theme for you,” “Sensitive Support,” “Path to your Heart,” “Meaningful Conversations,” and “Making Choices.”

		TAXI member Mark Davies has signed deals with four different music library/publishers.

		Michael Logozar’s song “Ambient Night” was placed in the critically-acclaimed Indie film Van Vorst Park, starring Frank Vincent (The Sopranos, Casino, Jungle Fever).

		Denzil Remedios signed a two-song publishing deal. His song “Gold Mine” was also placed in the Indie film Van Vorst Park.

		Tommy Roberson had 11 of his songs played in three different episodes of the Discovery Channel’s critically-acclaimed show Urban Explorers.

		New York, NY TAXI member Suzan Stroud’s song “I Don’t Feel Like Kissing,” from her CD Reveal the Tapestry, was picked up by a music library for placement into television shows and films.

		TAXI member Phil Bender-Stone of Arvaca, Colorado, had his song “Bellissimo” featured on the ABC Family network’s television drama Wildfire.

		TAXI member Ron Ermini’s Jazz instrumentals “Who Stole My Sugar” and “When You’ve Had Enough” were featured in the CBS series Threshold, starring Carla Gugino (Sin City, Spy Kids, Karen Cisco) and Brian van Holt (House of Wax, Black Hawk Down, Windtalkers).

		Nashville band The Mary Dream had their song “How You Love Me” prominently featured on ABC’s All My Children on the New Year’s Eve episode.

		TAXI member Cornelius Taylor signed four songs with a Los Angeles-based music library: “The Whole While,” “Shock The World,” “The Magician,” and “I Know.”

		Chicago TAXI member Steve Multer (along with his wife Karen and group TONIC Vintage Vocals) signed a batch of their Jazz songs with two different music publishers.

		TAXI member Neal Busby and co-writer/wife, Huguette, signed deals with two music libraries. From one of these deals, their song, “Out On the Town,” was featured in an episode of South of Nowhere.

		Richard Hamersma’s song “Skin Hungry For Your Love” was picked up by a TV music publisher.

		A music publisher picked up Nathan Aronow’s 11 song-CD, Hearing Things, for placement on the Weather Channel.

		Lee Kweller signed his song, “Rocker Daniel,” a light-hearted, fun, bluegrass tune, to a Los Angeles-based music library.

		TAXI member Joel Evans licensed his song, “Until it Happens to You,” in Mini’s First Time, a new movie starring Alec Baldwin and Luke Wilson.

		TAXI member Ed Hartman also licensed his track, “Beethoven’s Ninth Samba,” in the independent film Mini’s First Time, starring Jeff Goldblum and Carrie-Anne Moss.

		TAXI member Catherine Marie Charlton’s song “Ireland” was placed in the Indie film Van Vorst Park.

		Rae Welch’s song “Someone’s Waiting” was included on Frog & Scorpion Records compilation CD One Nation Under God Vol. II.

		Two TAXI members signed deals with TayMusic, an Internet record company. Jeff Bihlman initially signed a three-song deal with TayMusic, but the company ended up signing his entire catalogue—three full CDs and a Christmas single. Barbara Martin, a blues artist, was also signed to TayMusic.

		Jody Adams’ song “Every Good Reason” was placed on NBC’s long-time hit magazine show Access Hollywood.

		John-Alex Mason signed a record deal with Internet record company TayMusic for his two CD’s Time Will Come and Live Fire.

		Two TAXI members had their songs featured in the FX show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Barry Schleifer’s song “Returns & Exchanges” and Dan Bowman’s “Jealous of Jesus” both appeared in episodes of the show.

		Robert Wuagneux signed his Delta blues song, “One Thing’s for Certain,” to a music library/publisher.

		Sally Anthony, of Noblesville, IN had her song “Vent” licensed for the movie Van Vorst Park, starring Frank Vincent (Goodfellas, Sopranos).

		Frank Palmieri’s song “Never Again” was used in the Indie flick Vegas Baby, featuring Kal Penn (Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, Son of the Mask, Van Wilder), Jonathan Bennett (Mean Girls, Cheaper by the Dozen 2), and Donald Faison (Uptown Girls, Josie and the Pussycats, Remember the Titans).

		David Rebb Firman from Goshen, CA signed a three-song publishing deal for his uptempo Country numbers “I’ve Come to Play,” “Love Sick Bound,” and “Heart of the Night.”

		Two of TAXI member Dan Caravetta’s songs, “Southern Dilemma” and “Cold Sweat,” were featured in the PBS documentary, “Beyond the Medal of Honor.” He also had two songs placed on the Outdoor Life Network.

		London-based TAXI member Michael Dodds, who records as Rolanoid, has had his dance track “Dreamcatcher” placed with a prominent Los Angeles music library.

		TAXI member Art Corey, along with his wife and co-writer, had their song “Little Patch of Green” used on Frog & Scorpion’s One Nation Under God, Vol. 2 album. (Their song, “On an Ordinary Tuesday,” appeared on the Vol. 1 of the One Nation Under God album.)

		The Discovery Channel’s Urban Explorers: Denver featured the song “Wave Rider” by TAXI member John Baker from Palmer, Alaska .

		Krisanthi Pappas’s song “One Slow Dance A Day” first aired on Passions in Canada in July 2002. The song then appeared on One Life to Live in the U.S. in September 2004 and March 2005, then again on Passions in Australia in November 2004.

		Rob Dehlinger had his avant-garde arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” picked up by a Los Angeles-based publisher.

		Chad LaMarsh’s song “In Between the Lines” was licensed to Van Kampen Investments for a corporate video the company produced for Morgan Stanley.

		Kent Forward’s two songs, “Goin’ Nowhere” and “What It Feels Like,” appeared in the premiere of CMT’s show Home Blitz.

		Mike Schmid signed a licensing deal with a west coast music publisher for more than 15 of his songs. Three of his songs were placed in episodes on the Felicity Season Four DVD. The publisher also got Mike's music in more than 900 Regal Cinemas.

		Frank Palmieri’s song “Never Again” appeared in an episode of Monk, the USA Network’s seminal character show. In the episode, a character throws a radio playing “Never Again” into a bathtub and electrocutes her husband. “It’s a placement the audience wouldn’t forget,” Palmieri said.

		TAXI forwarded Richard Bassett’s “Royal Palms” to a music production library that does film and TV placement. He was then contacted by the company, and, along with his co-writer, ended up signing five Hawaiian instrumentals.

		Two TAXI members have had their songs recorded by American Juniors finalist Katelyn Tarver for her upcoming album. Five of Gabriel Dorman’s songs will be on the album, including “Closer to My Heart” and “Brand New Day.” Scott Krippayne’s “Wonderful Crazy” was also recorded by Katelyn.

		John Wilhelm recently landed a deal with Frog & Scorpion Records. His song “Freedom” will be on an upcoming patriotic compilation called One Nation Under God, Vol. 2, Never Forget.

		Denny Earnest’s “American Banjo” appeared in an episode of FOX’s The Simple Life 2. In the song, he played the five-string banjo with a flat pick like a guitar. Photo by Libby Caldwell.

		Jody Adams, via a publishing deal with a prominent music library, had his song “Dancing Eyes” featured in an episode of the WB’s One Tree Hill.

		Columbus, Ohio’s Earwig recently had their song “Best Kept Secret” used in the film [ah-MIG-dah-la] (Omen Productions). The documentary about extreme skiing was released in short-run theaters across the world, and is now available on DVD.

		Nashville band Harsh Krieger’s song “Gunsmoke” was in an episode of M80, a freestyle motocross show that airs on Fuel TV, a Fox Sports affiliate.

		Ken Anderson has had two songs placed on All My Children. “Grateful” played in two episodes of the show, and “More Than A Minute” played in one. An east coast music library licensed those two songs, along with three other R&B tracks, written by Ken.

		Hoggard Films selected three of Christian Balcom’s instrumental songs to appear on the Discovery Channel’s “Urban Explorers.” “City Blue Eyes,” “N.J.,” and “Look Out!” appeared in the episode of the show called “Forbidden Zone: Milwaukee.”

		Chris Yurchuck: (1) got his songs “Twilight” and “Alexander” used as replacements in the 4th season DVD of Felicity; (2) signed a 7-song deal with a music publisher to pitch his material for various film and TV projects; and (3) had his song “Hourglass” licensed for placement in Regal Cinema theatres for pre-show screenings.

		Through a TAXI listing run by an LA-based music publisher, Alex Rapaport had his version of the public domain song “Je Veux Vivre” picked up by the independent film “Fronterz,” starring Henry Winkler, Ted Danson and Blair Underwood. The movie was released on Fox Searchlight.

		The Fox Family Channel, Trinity Broadcasting and the Inspirational Network all broadcast a show called Life in the World, featuring a song by Dan Caravetta from Easton, Pennsylvania.

		TAXI member Denny Earnest of Livingston, Montana had his song “Aloha From Hawaii” showcased on the FOX TV network’s hot night-time series “North Shore,” based in a hotel in Hawaii. In addition, the publisher that placed the song also asked him to create an entire Hawaiian CD.

		Belton, Missouri’s Jeff Scheetz signed signed five different songs with three different music libraries.

		Justin Wilde of Christmas and Holiday Music, one of the leading holiday song music publishers, has added the following three TAXI members’ songs to his catalog: “Bloody Bones” by Harmon Huff, “Hollerin’ on Halloween” by Christian Codish, and “The New Halloween Monster” by Steve Shapiro.

		Distance was no barrier to Uri Kabiri of Tel Aviv, Israel, who landed a deal for his song “Enter Into My World” with the company DANCE! 90210. They will include his composition into an instructional dance video they are producing.

		TAXI member Jon Maddux from Encinitas, California just signed a six song film & TV placement deal with an independent publishing company.

		When the WB Network released seasons three and four of their long-running hit Felicity, the DVDs included several songs by Shannon Penn — “If You Didn’t Try”, “Something Good” and “The Better Man.” Through a west coast music publisher, Shannon also scored exposure at major theater chain Regal Cinemas, which featured Penn’s song “So This Is Hollywood” in the music section (before the previews). Not bad, considering the Regal Entertainment Group is the largest motion picture exhibitor in the world, including more than 6,000 theaters!

		For use in their corporate videos, corporate design giant Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. has licensed two songs, “Equator” and “Barber’s Scissors,” by Daniel Eyde of Redwood City, California.

		Jimm McIver’s song “Sunny Day” was placed in the Oxygen Network’s groundbreaking show “Good Girls Don’t . . . ” through a major film & TV production company. The program features hot newcomers Bree Turner (The Wedding Planner, Sorority Boyd, Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo) and Kevin Christy (Dude, Where’s My Car?, CSI, Malcolm in the Middle).

		Jesper Meljvang from Denmark composed a song that will be added to a CD called Elements, which is being released on Warner Bros. in Germany — and potentially worldwide.

		MTV’s hit reality series Road Rules featured a cut by TAXI member Steve Krentzman. The placement came via a TAXI listing run by an east coast music publisher.

		TAXI member Edwin Stone, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, scored a three song deal with The Weather Channel. Edwin received $1500.00 each for each of the songs. The network used them for a month.

		Ipswitch, Massachussets TAXI Member Eric Colville netted $1,600 for the use of his song on ABC’s long-running daytime drama All My Children.

		One Life to Live, the landmark ABC soap opera featured two songs by Scottsdale, Arizona TAXI member Rich Banks.

		NBC’s long-time hit series Law and Order recently picked up a song by TAXI Member Joe Quaranto, via a New York-based production music library.

		TAXI member Ryan Hovind landed a publishing deal with a high-level film and TV music placement company with consistent placements on major networks.

		Road Rules, MTV’s seminal reality show, used a song by TAXI Member Denny Earnest in an eposide to air this August.

		Scott Shpak and Ken Faragalli, from St. Catherines in Ontaria, Canada, had their song “What Matters to Elizabeth” featured in Showtime’s groundbreaking series “Queer as Folk.”

		And from the other side of the world, Micheal Wheeler of Victoria, Australia had 9 songs signed to an LA-based music publisher with tons of film and TV placements.

		“That’s Why You Love Me,” a song by Louisville, Kentucky’s Dan Bowman, was used in the television show “Angel” on the WB Network.

		Dawn De Mone, a TAXI Member from Los Angeles, California recently had her song “Bikini” placed in the upcoming reality film “Malibu Spring Break.” Dawn also had a song used on the GKA show on the Fuel Network, the 24/7 action sports culture TV station.

		TAXI Members Barry Schleifer and Kent Forward have both placements in the USA Network’s show The Last Ride, starring Dennis Hopper, Will Patton (Mothman Prophecies, Remember the Titans, Gone in Sixty Seconds), Fred Ward (10.5, Sweet Home Alabama, Tremors), Nadine Velazquez and others.

		Austin, TX-based member Elizabeth Rice tells us: “I’m tardy in writing to let you know that because of YOU I signed a song to a music library at the end of 2003! You forwarded it eons before (over a year?) and they called in the Fall to sign it. :) “Thanks so much for all you do for us out here in writers-land! See y’all at the Road Rally in November!”

		Denny Earnest from Livingston, MT writes: “Just signed off 10 tunes to a New York-based publisher from a listing more than 4 months ago, and 12 tunes from a Dispatch listing two weeks ago to another publisher. Thanks, folks!”

		Mike Farley of Nashville, Tennessee called to let us know that he recently had two more songs placed on ABC’s long-running daytime drama stalwart All My Children. Congrats, Mike! Also see an article by Mike here.

		Jazz Composer/Musician Bill Gordon of Miami, Florida, a loyal TAXI member for eleven years, completed an entire album of compositions for one of the biggest music production libraries in the world. Bill also gave us an update on some of the TV shows on which he has had his songs placed through music libraries. They include: The District (CBS), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (UPN), Angel (WB), Boston Public (FOX), Sabrina the Teenage Witch (ABC), Felicity (WB), Passions (NBC) . . . whew! It’s safe to say that the talented and very hardworking Mr. Gordon will be seeing royalty checks from his music for many lucrative years to come.

		The next sequel in the popular Cruel Intentions films — Cruel Intentions 3, starring Tom Everett Scott (ER, Van Wilder, That Thing You Do) — has licensed four songs by TAXI members from geographical points far afield. Nathan Anderson of St. Paul, Minnesota wrote “Sweet Misery,” Knoxville, Tennessee’s Sarah Lewis penned “Space,” Freddy Litwiniuk of Calgary, Alberta, Canada provided “Thinking It Over,” and Paul Hollman from West Hollywood, California authored “Final Dance.”

		TAXI member Jean Na of Glendale, California had a song placed in the trailer for the film “Beautyshop”—the female take on the hit “Barbershop” films. Jean has also had several placements on America’s Next Top Model.

		Steven Frank of Chicago, Illinois is also getting ‘tons of tunes’ in “America’s Next Top Model.” Hey Steven, do you also get to visit the set?

		Jeffry Wynne Prince of Sacramento, California band The Kimberly Trip writes to say, “ABC Family Channel included our song ‘Just What I Wanted’ on an episode of ‘Knock First’ (a decorating show... very ironic since my day-gig is as an interior decorator). Just thought you’d like to know.”

		Dave Osoff from Boston, Massachusetts writes: “Just wanted to let you all know I just got my first TAXI TV placement. My electronica track ‘QX5’ is being used in GKA—the women’s action sports show on the cable network, Fuel TV. Just got the call today. And another good thing happened recently as a direct result of the Road Rally. Someone who runs a center for the arts in Toronto, Ontario picked up my album ’Mosaic’ at the Rally and passed it on to the contemporary/smooth jazz station WAVE 94.7 in Toronto/Hamilton. I got the call this week that they will be adding 1 or 2 tracks to the rotation. A major market commercial jazz station; hopefully that’ll help give me the boost I need to get a slot in the Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival next summer. Thanks so much for your efforts on behalf of all of the independent artists out there!”

		Elliott Park of Baird Texas, has inked a staff writer deal with Extreme Writers Group in Nashville. It’s tremendously rare to be able to have this level of success in Nashville without having to live there. But, hey, that’s what we created TAXI for! Elliott (who’s more detailed account appears in the “Letters” section) currently has songs on hold for Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts, and Diamond Rio. Not bad for a guy who had never even been to Nashville a year ago! We’ll have more details of Elliott’s signing next month.

		Mark Lightcap and Larry Lynum of Redmond, Washington have had songs placed on an NBC sitcom, and another on a Nickelodeon Movie Of The Week. “Thanks, TAXI. We made some money, thanks to you!”

		“Dropping you a line to let you know of a recent TV placement of one of my songs,” says Steve Mesropian (aka Mez). “The song is called ‘Like Me.’ and was placed on ABC’s soap opera General Hospital.”

		Tim Barton of Long Grove, IL informed us “I signed music to a music library in the U.K. and recently with a publisher in Los Angeles: four Boogie-Woogie piano solos.” “I also loved the ’03 Road Rally and now have books by all the great authors that I have been meeting there over the years. They are very helpful and I continue to appreciate your help to me. Thanks!”

		Since hooking up with a leading production music house through TAXI Dispatch, TAXI member Rob Grad from Venice, California has been busy doing vocals for clients such as Coors Light, Gillette, and others. Rob is also doing radio station ID’s and vocals for an album of Modern Rock tracks to be shopped to various Film, TV and Commercial projects. Rob’s band Superfine is also getting some attention, check out their web site at www.superfineband.com.

		This just in from busy TAXI member Matt Hirt from Sherman Oaks, CA: “I just got my BMI statement, and I’ve got more good news: I had a tune placed on “Law and Order Special Victims Unit” (NBC) and another one on Dateline NBC. Additionally, a religious broadcast called “Life In The Word” has been using three of my tunes for several months now on almost a daily basis, adding up to over $2000 on this BMI statement alone All of this due to TAXI deals! Not too shabby!”

		Lee Eisenstein, from Kailua, Hawaii relates: “I just signed my first publishing deal from a TAXI forward!”

		“Since joining Taxi four years ago my writing partner, Keith O’Neill, and I have had thirteen songs forwarded resulting in two deals,” recounts Darryl Jedlowski. “One, with an independent music publisher, resulted in a song placement in the daytime soap ‘Passions.’ We also had a deal which resulted in the placement of one of our songs in the motion picture ‘Maze’ (starring Rob Morrow and Laura Linney).”

		TAXI member David Thompson recently had success on ABC’s All My Children. “They played all 4:35 of my song ‘Lookin’ For My Baby’ (off my first ‘RIDER’ CD) as the featured piece of one episode. They played 23 seconds of the song in one of their previous shows, then decided to use the whole song for this latest program.”

		Members Tom Kujath and Glenn Brittain from Michigan signed a deal with a leading holiday music publisher for their Halloween song “Vampire Vic”.

		TAXI member Skaie Zoe (pronounced Sky Zowee) from Redondo Beach, California, has had placements in the following: - MTV’ s “Punk’d” - MTV’ s “Real World” - MTV’s “Road Rules” - NBC’s reality series “Starting Over” - Feature film “American Crime”-wrote and performed four original songs for this feature film, directed by Danny Mintz, premiering at this year’s Toronto Film Festival starring Rachael Leigh Cook, from Josie & the Pussycats, Get Carter, She’s All That, Living Out Loud; Carrie Elwes, from The Cat’s Meow, Cradle Will Rock, Kiss the Girls, Liar Liar, Twister, The Princess Bride. Kip Pardue, Remember the Titans, Driven, The Rules of Attraction; and Annabella Sciorra, The Sopranos, What Dreams May Come, Cop Land, Romeo is Bleeding, Jungle Fever, Reversal of Fortune, Cadillac Man.

		Dan Caravetta from Levittown, Pennsylvania received lots of action from a prominent music library this year. Dan tells us what’s going on, “They signed 14 of my songs last August-11 instrumental rock, 1 ambient (horror), 1 solo acoustic guitar, 1 solo piano. They signed 3 more songs in May of this year and then 5 more in June-mainly piano/guitar/bass instrumentals. So far, since February of this year, I’ve received about $1,500 in licensing royalties. I’m still waiting to see where the songs have been placed.”

		Steven Frank of Chicago, Illinois has had about 50 placements in all three cycles of MTV’s “Tough Enough” and UPN’s “America’s Next Top Model,” as well as several songs in various episodes of UPN’s “Haunted.”

		TAXI member Karlus Trapp from Staten Island, New York, had placements on UPN’s “Haunted”, and ABC’s legendary daytime drama, “General Hospital”.

		Nine year TAXI member and regular Road Rally attendee Zupe (just Zupe) from Altoona, Pennsylvania writes, “Just letting you know that I placed two songs on the History Channel’s “Highway ” series. Because of TAXI Dispatch, I have built a good relationship with a major music publisher, who placed them for me. The show airs several times this month — check your local listings! See you in November!” Zupe

		Kent Forward from Nashville, TN, wrote to say: “Just wanted to drop a line and let you know about deals I’ve gotten on my songs through Taxi (sorry if I’ve been a bit out of touch, I’ve been too busy writing songs and signing contracts from Taxi forwards! ;-) In fact, I recently received my first check in the mail from one of these placements, which are a direct result of my first year with TAXI!” “I’ve also included one new one that just came in, serving to kick off my second year of membership. You guys are the best! It’s good to be ridin’ in the back of your li’l yellow cab that could!” “Four different publishers picked up nine of my songs.”

		Joe Dobrota, Sr. from Evergreen, Colorado, called to let us know he had a piece picked up by a New York-based music publisher.

		“Wanted to let y’all know that I just received my first contract offer!” enthuses Abe Loomis. “A California-based music library wants to include my song, ‘Wildlife Conservation,’ in their catalog for placement in TV and motion picture soundtracks.” “I’m so grateful to Taxi for believing in my song and opening this door for me. Not only has Taxi improved my songwriting, it’s gotten me my first deal! The fact that TAXI can connect a Massachusetts transplant writing Country songs in New Jersey with a publishing company in California, sight unseen, is pretty close to a miracle. One friend I told about it has already decided to join. You guys rock!”

		Mike Farley of Cleveland Ohio (TAXI Member since 1998) writes: “Just wanted to let you guys know I got a placement in the TV show ‘All My Children’ who found me through TAXI. My song ‘When Lights Go Down’ will air twice during the show this Thursday, June 19th. Thanks again for all your help, the hard work finally appears to be paying off!”

		An east coast-based music library has just released a full CD of New Age Atmospheres by TAXI Member Paul Avgerinos of Redding, Connecticut for film and TV placement.

		TAXI member Dan Caravetta of Levittown, Pennsylvania shows us the adventure of getting a publishing deal. “I have developed a nice relationship with this publisher that started through a forward of some of my rock instrumentals in April of 2002. Since that time, I have signed 17 songs and I am working on more for them. I have started to see some checks coming in (and have upgraded my recording equipment with the money). I’m still waiting to see where my tunes have been placed. That’s a great thing to look forward to.”

		Bobby Messano, from New Jersey by way of Nashville, recently signed a deal with independent label Fishhead Records (which also releases product from Scott Ellison, Wallace Coleman, and Sylvain Sylvain -formerly of the New York Dolls) to release his outstanding Blues album.

		Swiss native (now living in Sherman Oaks, California) Matt Hirt has made seven deals through TAXI that involve some 70 of his original songs. His earnings to date are close to $12,000. With songs in Spin City, (ABC), Judging Amy (CBS) and Passions (NBC). Matt also learned a lot about how this business works: “TAXI helps me with everything. They give me new ideas about what to write and then give me feedback on the writing. They also help me connect with publishers and music libraries. They help me make money. But it’s more than that. For someone like myself who is not good at self-promotion, and not good at schmoozing, TAXI is the difference between having success and not having success.”

		Chuck Henry has signed a three-year, three-CD deal with Etherean Records—one of the leading world beat labels. They are looking at a spring 2003 international release. The name of the group is World Radio.

		Tim Swisher recently received a contract offer for a one-song publishing deal through an established music publishing company. It was a direct result from a TAXI forward that was made over a year ago. Tim comments: “I would like to thank TAXI for the insightful comments my submissions received and for proving to me that I could get my foot in the door with the right connections. Not that I doubted TAXI, but you definitely have cleared up any thoughts in my head about your ability to help a working musician catch a break in such a difficult industry: Music! Keep up the good work.”

		Long-time TAXI Member, and recent “Passenger Profile” subject, Bill Gordon, just landed three more placements on network shows The District (CBS), Boston Public (Fox), and Sabrina the Teenage Witch (Warner Brothers).

		A world-renowned music library is picking up another song of Joy Thomason’s (titled “I’ll Be Waiting at the Door”) for their ’40s/’50s project. “You TAXI, are an amazingly awesome gift to songwriters,” asserts Joy.

		Thanks to TAXI, Artemis Robison just landed her very first licensing deal. Robison’s song “Fountain of Life” aired on the ABC show MDs on December 4 at 10 p.m. “It’s a really great episode to get placed on,” says Artemis, “since Macy Gray was on that episode, so the audience was bigger than usual. I’m a happy camper!” Artemis sends his “warm regards and blissed-out juju to everyone at TAXI.”

		TAXI Member James Grant from Henderson Nevada had one of his songs placed on ABC’s show MDs in a featured two-minute usage.

		Elliott Park of Baird Texas has more good news to report: RCA Records has just placed another of his songs “Sand In My Shoes” on hold for Country superstar Kenny Chesney. This goes along with two songs still on hold for Diamond Rio. We’ll keep you posted!

		Members Simen Fjeld and Sindre Saebo from Norway have recently signed a publishing/license agreement with an established L.A. based company. Their song was forwarded more than six months before. Simen says “So folks, things might take some time!!!”

		Fred Douglas Talbert of Van Nuys, California had two songs, “Before You Say Goodbye” and “Make a Little Love” signed to a Nashville-based music publisher for use in films and TV productions.

		Paul Avgerinos of Redding, CT placed three tracks with a music library for their music CD project, and they want more from him in other genres as well.

		T. Roberson of Chicago, IL landed a 17 song deal with a huge TV production company, for use on a little TV show MTV has called “Making The Band” with P. Diddy. They also may be used on the shows “Real World” “Road Rules” and/or on “Extreme/All Star Challenge”.

		Mark Cook of Woodstock, GA just signed a contract for six of his Blues songs with a powerful music publisher/library.

		Wayne Wesley Johnson of Oldwick, New Jersey placed a song on the WB Network’s “Roswell” as well as more music with the Discovery Channel’s “Outward Bound” series

		Denny Earnest of Livingston, Montana has had two songs placed on NBC’s “Passions”.

		Brad Chiet placed his song “Harley ’99” in the indie film “Local Boys” for a $2,000 license fee. Pete Surdoval placed his song “Pulp Surf” in the indie film “Local Boys” for a $2,000 license fee.

		Greg Shearer placed his song “Rock The House” in the indie film “Evil Alien Conquerors” for a $3,000 license fee.

		Brain Binning of Seattle placed two songs with a powerhouse music library,.

		And Brian’s roommate Jonathan Kingham had a song featured in an upcoming episode of the hit WB series, Felicity.

		Suzanne Grzanna had her jazz song “Mystery Man” used in the film, “Sex and Bullets” starring Judd Nelson and Seymour Cassell.

		Member Pam Quinlan’s band Fez Fatale had a song placed on the History Channel.

		James Kernick and Phil Francis had songs placed on the Style Channel and on the E! Entertainment Network’s show “Rank”.

		Bob Kroeger’s stock shot up, as he received a check from BMI for a piece that an established NYC production house picked up. It was played on a major TV network for promos and it was heard on Howard Stern’s radio program. He also completed a 22 track deal with another publishing company.

		Member Corey Tanner from Chicago, IL got his song “Aint A Damn Thing Changed” placed in the upcoming film “Lost In The U.S.A.” from Indie Zone Pictures.

		Charity Chapman also placed her song “Closer To Perfect” in the feature film “Slap Her, She’s French” scheduled for an early 2002 release.

		Daniel James of Southbury, CT signed a deal with a leading music library to represent the audio-visual rights for two of his world music tracks.

		Lizard McGee placed two songs with an LA film and TV publisher, was forwarded to Prestige Management and has developed an ongoing relationship with them. He has also recently been contacted by Disney-owned Hollywood Records.

		Chuck Henry of Hollywood, CA completed production music CD for a UK-based music library. “I did 15 tracks for it, and it will be promoted and distributed to broadcast and production companies in England and Japan. Also, I have recently signed 8 songs over to another music library and have more deals pending.”

		Tony Hall of Coral Springs, FL signed 20 spooky tracks to an international music publisher for an upcoming Horror CD. He has also been contacted by several US-based publishers.

		8 members (that we know of ) have signed a number of songs with a big league publishing company: Instant Guru - Dino Haak (2 songs) Peter Elman - (8 songs) Peter Sivo - (20 songs) 53 Days - Tom Robinson (3 songs) Acoustic Food Chain - Steve Glotzer (3 songs,) Amelia’s Dream - (1 song) Congratulations to all!

		A powerhouse music library has signed a twenty song publishing deal with with Destin, Florida artist PB&J—otherwise known as James Kernick and partner Phil Francis—after hearing their incredible Electronica music played at the Road Rally. The music library will now be placing their tracks in films and television productions around the world. Phil and James use nothing but “Sonic Foundry and a PC” to make their master quality recordings.

		Miami member Pete Masitti had his song “When I See You Smile” played during the Publishers Panel at the Road Rally to a rousing reaction from audience and publisher panelists alike. One panelist couldn’t wait, and called Pete at home that same night!

		Gabriel Dorman’s band Book Of Sun had their song “Situation” used in MTV’s production of “Making The Video” featuring Eminem.

		Member Alice Leon from Monmouth Junction, N.J. had her song “Jane Is On The Phone” used in the independent festival film “Random Shooting in L.A.”

		Dave Gedosh got a song placed in the independent film “Second to Die”. The film stars a couple of academy award winners. He also signed a publishing deal with a prominent music library.

		Boston-area band Entrain placed three songs (including a long feature usage) in the film “Cutaway” starring Stephen Baldwin and Tom Berenger on the USA network.

		TAXI members James Kernick and Phil Francis’ band PB&J placed music in the Danish Dogme (a new avant garde film style) film “Reunion.”

		Rob Khurana and Guy Maisonneuve of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada have been getting lots of placements as a result of their deals with a leading TV music publisher. Their music has appeared on such shows as The Queen Latifah Show, True Hollywood Stories on E! Entertainment Network, Showtime’s Beggars and Choosers, Fox TV’s Malcolm In The Middle; and many more shows in Japan and Canada.

		Another Canadian member, Brian (Hoot) Gibson of New Westminster, B.C. writes: “Through TAXI, I have just signed a single song contract with a music supervision company in Palos Verdes, California. The song title is “Don’t Touch.” The first deal, with many more to come!! Thanks!”

		Gary Partin of Covington, KY signed a one song deal with a UK publishing company. The song, “Drive,” co- written by Greg Thomas, is going on a Motosport compilation for British television.

		Melinda Johnson, of Fixed-Wing Productions in North Hollywood, CA signed a license agreement with Ellipsis Arts Records for the use of one of her instrumental harp tracks for their upcoming compilation CD entitled Mediterranean Lullabies.

		Erik Nilsen and Pat Phillips of Slipstream Music in St. Paul Minnesota signed five songs to an international publishing company.

		Bill Gordon of Miami, FL got a deal with Surreal-to-Reel Film Music. And they want to hear more.

		Adam Watts has a cut by multi-platinum UK artist Jerome Flynn on BMG Records through Rain Turtle Music; and has placed five compositions with Muzak via a west coast publisher.

		Fran Lucci’s song “Sheree” was recently used on an episode of Dawson’s Creek.

		Michael Souza of Templeton, California had his song “Out On The Road” used in the short film, Clown Car. Michael also signed his track “Speed Freak” to a British music library.
		Faith Rivera of Long Beach, California, signed a deal with a west coast music library, and the same library has placed a song by Tom Robinson’s band 53 Days in the hit NBC series, ER.

		Britt Phillips’ band Hand To Mouth had two songs used in the film Undercurrent starring Lorenzo Lamas.

		Darwin Gross has placed his song “Soul Speaks” in the Miramax Film Take Down starring Tom Berenger.

		San Diego’s Honeycreepers got their song “Cage” in MTV’s show Undressed.

		The band Fisher signed their deal with Farm Club/Universal. Look for the album in stores and on the radio later this year! Full story here.

		Stan Swiniarski got his first Muzak placement through TAXI via a west coast music publisher.

		B.Z. Lewis continues to get many placements through TAXI. MTV is using nine more songs for “Making The Video” and “Undressed.” And Lewis just signed a song to use in the indie film ‘Bellyfruit.’ Electronic Arts is using another song in the video game ‘Triple Play 2001’ and B.Z. placed a song in NBC’s ‘Passions’.

		TAXI Member Scott Duncan has signed songs to two different publishing companies, one in New York, and one in the UK.

		James Kole got a last-minute placement of a Blues song in the Miramax film “Take Down”.

		Derrick Procell placed his song “Santa Bring My Baby Home to Me” in episodes of “The Young and The Restless” and in NBC’s “Providence.”

		Several members had material picked up by an east coast publisher. Congratulations go out to Christian Geith, John Wolanin, Bob Kroeger, Mike Newman, Victor Palagano, Zupe, Ed Dzubak, Mark Battaglia, and Monti Medley.

		TAXI Member Julie Ann Bailey from St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin received a quarterly BMI check for over $4,000 from music placements she had on 2 NBC shows, a CBS sitcom, and the Jerry Springer Show.

		TAXI recently placed the song “Any Way” by the band Fisher in the Miramax film “Take Down” starring Skeet Ulrich and Master P.

		Skip Peck of Weirton, West Virginia, Tim Koss of Everett, Washington, Suzanna Grzanna of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and B.Z. Lewis’ band Sugar Danks from San Francisco, CA all have had music placed in the upcoming film “The Cure For Boredom” (renamed “Sex & Bullets”) through an independent music publishing company whose focus is film and TV placements.

		Drayfus Grayson of Long Beach California tells us he has concluded two publishing deals.

		Ed Dzubak of Redding, Connecticut did a deal with an east coast music publisher with tons of TV placements.

		All of the following members (and their bands) have had music placed in the film “Deal Of A Lifetime” through an indie music supervision company: Hunter Payne; Matt Marka (Brittle); Diego Sandrin; Raymy Krumrei (Golden Ticket); Neil Schnell (Daddy’s Soul Donut); Tom Robinson (53 Days).

		Barry Kingston concluded a deal with the same music supervision company for use of his tune in the end-title position of the film, “Deal of a Lifetime.”

		Brooke Ramel placed their song, “Que Est Tu” in the movie “Wednesday’s Child”.

		A successful music publisher picked up 10 cues from TAXI writer Rob Khurana to be used on a CD release.

		Tim Tatum, Dan Lyon, Tom Hipps and Vinnie Zummo all concluded publishing deals with the same New York music library.

		TAXI member L.John Ernst got the good news that 15 of his original songs were being picked up by an east coast publisher.

		B.Z. Lewis had one of his tunes placed in the motion picture called “The Mating Habits of Humans” which will star David Hyde Pierce.

		David Ernst has been busy as a beaver with no less than 10 tracks picked up by a high-profile music library, and the door still wide open for more potential wheelings and dealings.

		James Causey is having a piece by his band, Illogical SRL had one of their tunes placed in the film “Let The Devil Wear Black” that is starring Jacqueline Bissett & Mary Louise Parker.

		Noel Webb informs us that he’s inked a publishing deal with a Los Angeles based music publisher. Keep us posted, Noel.

		Back to the Silver Screen again for Richard Tull’s original compositions (two of them) now in the motion picture “No Rest For The Wicked”.

		An established music publisher in NYC has picked up multiple tunes from TAXI writers: Robert Burkhardt (9), Steven Afflick (3), Tim Tatum (6), and Tom Wassinger (7), L.John Ernst (15).

		TAXI Members Sixpence None The Richer got their song “Kiss Me” used twice in the CBS soap opera “The Young And The Restless” and the song is also shooting up the radio airplay charts. Last week, it was chosen as the featured song on the TV spots for the major new film “She’s All That”. Listen for it!

		Jennifer and Scott Smith got another usage of their song “Ordinary Girl” in “Young And The Restless”.
		James Stajdel placed a song in the film, “The Others”.
		John Grabowski wrote “Change of the Wind” which is now being used in the movie called “Edge of 17”.

		Molly Scheer and a leading European indie label concluded a foreign licensing deal.

		Paul McNamara finalized a six-song publishing agreement with a major music library.

		Geoff Clarkson finalized a deal with a successful holiday music publisher while Jack O’ Neil (foreign licensing deal) did the same with an international indie label. Nice goin’, guys.

		Larry Good worked out a two-song deal with an independent Nashville publisher. The same publisher also picked up two additional songs by writer Mike Porter.

		Joe David Curtis placed his song, “My Love Will Still Be Around”, with a Texas based music publisher, who also picked up Murray Bowes’ song, “Heaven Only Knows”.

		Writers Jennifer and Scott Smith, who are on a hot streak, recently placed three songs—“Fade Away”, “I Can’t Wait”, and “Never Come Back” in the TV series “Brooklyn South” on Fox TV.

		Several TAXI writers have recently negotiated deals with an eminent music library. They are: Robert Burkhardt (nine songs), Robert Orr, Paul Ulanowicz, Tim Barton, Tim Tatum (six songs), Tommy Merry and Yontz Sucre.

		MCA & Arista are looking at Mark Wood... A&M, Arista, Sire (Bud Scoppa), Ultimatum & M.E.G. Management seem to be circling the wagons around the Sugarplum Fairies... Four O’ Clock Balloon has attracted some interest from Arista, Interscope and a London music supervisor... Tacoma Films might be interested in doing a deal with the Rainravens.

		Robert Porembski has struck a deal with a top music production library for his original composition, “Feelin’ More Like Christmas”. Robert also mentions that this “very same tune was “favorably reviewed” by Michael Laskow and included on the Playback Vol. 10 CD in the August 1116 issue of Recording Magazine.” Way ta go, Robert.

		Richard Tull of Dallas, TX just landed two songs in the movie “No Rest For The Wicked”.

		Joshua Lowe’s band Shinola had a song placed in the film “The Others”.

		When the film, “Agent Utah”, opens in theaters, you’ll be able to hear Armand Della Volpe’s song in it.

		Derrick Procell performs his own song “Bethlehem PA” on the “Trucker’s Christmas” CD out through MCA in conjunction with “Mr. Christmas”, Justin Wilde. See ya on the road Derrick.

		Andrew G. Williams, Bill Reader, Ed Nicodemi, George & Jane Spica and Glen King have all struck deals with the same L.A. based music library.

		Bert Toms and Bill Edwards both signed licensing deals with a prominent Italian indie label, and Dennis Winslow inked a deal with a Texas based music library.

		Way ta go Britt Phillips for your song that will be appearing in a Lorenzo Lamas’ upcoming film.

		A New York based music library picked up tunes by David Steen, Eric Hollis, Evette Kay, Frederick Carola, Fuzzbee Morse (a 10-song deal), Greg Kochan, John Andrews, and Leon Salem.

		Dallas area Rock band Bobgoblin signed a Major Label deal with MCA Records. Their album, “Twelve-Point Master Plan” will be available in stores soon.

		Los Angeles band Fisher landed a Major Label deal after TAXI CEO Michael Laskow gave a copy of the band’s CD to Interscope A&R man Tony Ferguson.

		TAXI member Paul Wetty wrapped up a deal with an east coast publishing company.

		Jay Pinto and a music publisher worked out a one-song publishing deal with a tune to be used in a film called “Do You Wanna Dance”. Nice goin’, Jay.

		Ira Marlowe has just concluded an artist development deal with Dreamworks Records. If you know anything about the Biz, you understand just how hard those deals are to get. Congratulations, Ira.

		John W. Andrews reports to us that he’s signed over 50 tracks to two prominent music libraries in the past two years.

		Thanks to some talent and tenacity, TAXI member Carter Cathcart was able to place three of his instrumentals with an established music library, to be used in a movie trailer CD.

		Jane Norman had some success recently as she scored with a children's music production company, and then had her tune, “No Other Time”, picked up by a leading music library. Way ta go, Jane.

		These TAXI members have concluded recent deals with a successful music library: Pete Swanson, Ricci Accardi, Steven Afflick, Taryn Bailey, Kenneth J. Smith, Anton Barbeau, Denny Ernst, Ed Geoghegan and Jim Simons.

		The same company also picked up a lot of songs from Brent Sheppard, Ed Geoghegan, Jason Bush, Jeff Keck, John Buchan, John McMillian, Jon Werking, Karen Baldassa, Kenneth Smith, Michael Haring and Yontz Sucre. Congratulations to all.

		David Harris and Just Write Productions worked out an agreement whereby Harris got his song into the film called “Just Write”.

		Brent Sheppard and Larry Lynum were able to get their material used in the television sitcom “Sisters” on NBC. Way to go, guys.

		A great big tip of the TAXI hat to member Jamie Mika who reported that he was flown to New York to audition for the lead role in the smash Broadway musical, “Rent.” Win, lose or draw, that’s quite an honor, Jamie!

		Julie Ann Bailey, a singer-songwriter from St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, has reported that one of her tunes, “I’d Give Anything”, was used on the nationally syndicated Jerry Springer Show.

		Another round of deals with an east coast music publisher include: Rick Trulson, Michael Oppenheimer, Yontz Sucre, Michael Haring, Mike Kroell, Tsony Tsonev and Pete Swanson.

		Jerry Kelsick concluded a deal for publishing and TV use with a music library in Los Angeles.

		Captive Heart worked out several foreign licensing deals with a European independent label.

		Lee Kweller licensed some of his material to an international music publisher.

		Matt Berlin / 23rd Hour and Megarock have worked out a record/distribution deal.