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  • Permalink From left: She Rocks Awards winners Debbie Cavalier, Craigie Zildjian, Amani Duncan, Katie Kailus, and Gayle Beacock; She Rocks Awards Founder and Co-Host Laura B. Whitmore; Zepparella drummer Clementine; She Rocks Awards winner and performer Vicki Peterson of The Bangles; guest keyboardist Jenna Paone; She Rocks Awards winner and performer, saxophonist Mindi Abair; Eva Holbrook of SHEL; She Rocks Awards winners and performers Susanna Hoffs and Debbi Peterson of The Bangles; Zepparella bassist Angeline Saris; and Zepparella guitarist Gretchen Menn attend the She Rocks Awards during NAMM at the Anaheim Hilton on January 23, 2015 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Kevin Graft)Gallery

    2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music Rocks the NAMM Show

2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music Rocks the NAMM Show

A who’s who of music industry execs, celebrities, luminaries and supporters of women in music, gathered on Fri., Jan. 23 in the Anaheim Hilton hotel’s Pacific Ballroom to celebrate the 2015 She Rocks Awards, an event paying tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry.

Named one of Billboard magazine’s “7 must-see events at NAMM,” the sold-out She Rocks Awards were held by parent organization the Women’s International Music Network (the WiMN), and were co-hosted by WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore and guitarist, solo artist and 2013 She Rocks Awards winner Orianthi.

Honorees included Music Inc. editor, Katie Kailus; Vice President of Brand Marketing at Martin Guitar, Amani Duncan; multi-platinum artist, Colbie Caillat; Grammy Award nominated sax player, Mindi Abair; legendary band The Bangles; Vice President for Online Learning and Continuing Education/CEO for Berklee College of Music’s award-winning online continuing education program, Berklee Online, Debbie Cavalier; Vice President of iconic Capitol Studios, Paula Salvatore; Avedis Zildjian CEO, Craigie Zildjian; Beacock Music Co-Owner, Gayle Beacock; and owner of Robo Records, Rob Christie, the first-ever male to receive a She Rocks Awards.

“The 2015 She Rocks Awards brought together hundreds of powerful men and women in the music industry who filled the venue with a level of energy and excitement unlike any other She Rocks Awards we’ve held in the past. To know that this many people support our mission of advancing women in the music industry is extremely uplifting and reassuring. We set the bar high this year,” said WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore.

The event featured electrifying performances by Orianthi with a surprise cameo by Richie Sambora; Mindi Abair; The Bangles; Colbie Caillat; SHEL; and the house band comprised of Zepparella members Gretchen Menn on guitar, Angeline Saris on bass, Clementine on drums, and guest keyboardist Jenna Paone.

Highlights of the event include a stellar performance of Mindi Abair’s song “Kick […]

By |January 27th, 2015|News posts|0 Comments
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2015 She Rocks Awards Full Event Lineup Announced

 

The Women’s International Music Network is thrilled to announce the complete lineup for the 2015 She Rocks Awards, taking place Fri., Jan. 23, 2015 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Anaheim Hilton Hotel in Anaheim, Calif., during the 2015 Winter NAMM show. Tickets are available here.

With an impressive artist lineup and co-hosting duties being shared between WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore and platinum-selling guitarist and solo artist Orianthi, the 2015 She Rocks Awards promise to be the most dynamic She Rocks Awards ceremony yet. Honorees include:

Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum artist Colbie Caillat*
Grammy Award-nominated saxophone player and singer-songwriter Mindi Abair*
Iconic, platinum-selling all-female pop band The Bangles*
Avedis Zildjian CEO Craigie Zildjian
Beacock Music Co-Owner Gayle Beacock
Vice President for Online Learning and Continuing Education/ CEO for Berklee’s award-winning online continuing education program, Berklee Online, Debbie Cavalier
Vice President of Brand Marketing for C.F. Martin & Co, Amani Duncan
Editor of Music Inc. and UpBeat Daily magazines, Katie Kailus
Vice President of iconic Capitol Studios Paula Salvatore

*Also performing

The She Rocks Awards will be kicked off by Americana band SHEL, and throughout the evening will feature an all-star house band led by acclaimed guitarist Gretchen Menn, and include Zepparella members Angeline Saris on bass, Clementine on drums, and guest keyboardist Jenna Paone.

With featured performances, food and beverages, giveaways, a silent auction, networking opportunities and more, the third annual She Rocks Awards brings together industry professionals, music icons, artists, fans, and media to celebrate women in music. A portion of the proceeds of the event will go to benefit the Girls Rock Camp Alliance.

This event has sold out for the past two years and does not require a NAMM badge to attend.

The She Rocks Awards is sponsored by The Gretsch Company, […]

By |January 9th, 2015|News posts|0 Comments
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Mad Sun to Make its Mark During 2015 Winter NAMM Show

Mad Sun Marketing will take on the 2015 Winter NAMM show with full force Jan. 22 -25, 2015, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Team members Laura B. Whitmore, president and founder;  Tom Gilbert, creative and marketing manager; and Pauline France, public relations and content manager; will be involved in numerous aspects of the show, ranging from major event production, to conducting high-powered panel presentations.

Our NAMM show calendar of events includes:

Media Preview Day, Peavey Electronics – Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015, 11:00 a.m.

In this exclusive event open only to registered media, Mad Sun Marketing will proudly showcase its client Peavey’s new producst with a dynamic artist demonstration. Hundreds of members of the media attend this free, “first look” reception to preview music instruments, products and technologies that will debut at the NAMM Show.

Peavey Booth, Level 2, Booth 201 A & B – Thursday, Jan. 22 – Sunday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (5 p.m. on Sunday)

Mad Sun Marketing will spearhead public relations efforts at the Peavey Electronics booth, located on the second floor, booth 201 A & B. Stop by to help celebrate Peavey’s 50th anniversary, and to see the latest innovation in Peavey products. For more information, visit www.peavey.com.

College Music Students/Generation Next Plenary Session “Launching and Building Careers in the Music Products Industry Panel – Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015, 11:15 a.m.

The College Music Society (CMS) and NAMM are again collaborating to present Generation Next at The 2015 NAMM Show, providing college music majors and faculty special access to NAMM’s premier industry-only music product trade show.

Join Mad Sun Marketing President, Laura B. Whitmore, and other music industry professionals in this panel discussion, where popular “NAMM Babies” will return to discuss how to cultivate a successful […]

By |January 3rd, 2015|News posts|0 Comments
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Pauline France Joins Mad Sun Marketing

Mad Sun Marketing LLC, a boutique music and audio marketing and PR firm based in the Boston area, has added Pauline France as its PR & Content Manager. Having spent the last three years handling public relations for Fender Musical Instruments, France is uniquely suited to focus her skills as a publicist, writer and marketer on the needs of Mad Sun’s clients.
A guitarist herself, France teaches and performs and is fluent in Spanish. She is the recipient of the 2013 “Next Generation” She Rocks Award, and was selected for a 2010 National Association of Music Merchant’s President’s Innovation Award for exemplary work in pursuing a music career.

“I am beyond thrilled to have Pauline join the Mad Sun team,” stated Mad Sun Marketing President, Laura B. Whitmore. “Not only does Pauline have the skills and connections to really benefit our clients, she is just so wonderful to work with. Thorough, enthusiastic, and a total pro.”

Lead by agency owner Laura B. Whitmore, Mad Sun specializes in marketing strategy and execution, PR, artist relations, graphic design, eNewsletters, web development, event production, social media marketing, content creation, advertising and materials, video and photo shoot direction, and more.

With her experience in music, writing and PR, France will assist Whitmore and Mad Sun’s Creative & Marketing Manager, Tom Gilbert, as the agency continues to provide services for brands such as Peavey Electronics, NewBay Media, Dean Markley USA, Studio Instrument Rentals, MusicFirst, Earth Moments, and more.

Mad Sun Marketing was established in 2008 by Whitmore, who spent two decades as the marketing manager for Korg USA, handling marketing for the Korg, Marshall and VOX brands in the U.S. Prior to that, she worked in the Direct Marketing department of CBS Records. As […]

By |December 1st, 2014|News posts|0 Comments
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Colbie Caillat to be Honored at 2015 She Rocks Awards

 

The Women’s International Music Network (The WiMN), an organization founded by Mad Sun’s Laura B. Whitmore, announced that it will honor Grammy award-winning, multi-platinum artist Colbie Caillat with a Video of the Year award for her song “Try” at the 2015 She Rocks Awards. Recognizing women who stand out as role models in the music industry, the live awards event takes place on January 23, 2015 at the Anaheim Hilton Hotel during the NAMM Show.

Colbie Caillat is a two time Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter who has sold over six million albums and ten million singles worldwide. Her breakthrough hit “Bubbly” remains “one of the best-selling digital tracks in history” and her multi-platinum debut COCO hit #5 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart upon release, while her sophomore set Breakthrough landed at #1. From 2011’s All of You, “Brighter Than The Sun” went platinum and enjoyed over twenty film and television placements. She’s also played sold out venues everywhere alongside iconic artists from John Mayer to Sheryl Crow. Beyond music, she’s an avowed spokesperson and supporter for ASPCA, the Surfrider Foundation, Save The Music, Farm Sanctuary, and The Humane Society of the United States.

Most recently, Caillat released her fourth studio album Gypsy Heart, which features her hit single “Try.” Co-written by legendary producer and singer-songwriter, Babyface, “Try” has become one of the biggest performing songs featured as iTunes “Single Of The Week.” What’s more, the companion video for the song has become an online phenomenon, quickly amassing 30 million views. For additional information visit www.colbiecaillat.com.

“The first time I watched Colbie Caillat’s video for ‘Try,’ I was moved to tears. It is such a special video, and very empowering both visually and lyrically. I am […]

By |November 26th, 2014|News posts|0 Comments
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Orianthi to Co-Host the 2015 She Rocks Awards

 

The Women’s International Music Network (the WiMN) is thrilled to announce that Orianthi will co-host the 2015 She Rocks Awards. Honoring women who stand out as role models in the music industry, the She Rocks Awards is slated to take place Friday evening, January 23, 2015 in Anaheim, Calif., during the NAMM Show.

“The She Rocks Awards does so much for women in music and I’m excited to be a part of it,” shares Orianthi. “This event recognizes women who truly rock, and it will be my honor to be there to congratulate them!” A 2013 She Rocks Awards honoree, Orianthi is a platinum-selling solo artist and known the world-over as a masterful guitar player, having performed with artists such as Michael Jackson, Alice Cooper, Carrie Underwood, and more.

Hosting duties will be shared between Orianthi and the WiMN founder and Mad Sun Marketing President, Laura B. Whitmore. “Orianthi is such an amazing role model for female musicians all over the world,” Whitmore comments. “I can’t think of a better partner for leading the She Rocks Awards!”

The She Rocks Awards pays tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry, and has become a standard at the NAMM Show. Previous award recipients include female industry leaders such as Orianthi, Sheila E, Gaby Moreno, Malina Moye, Dinah Gretsch, Janie L. Hendrix, Mary Peavey, and more. The event brings together industry professionals, music icons, artists, educators, fans and media to celebrate women in music.

The WiMN also recently announced its first honoree for the 2015 award show; Grammy-nomiated saxophonist, singer and songwriter Mindi Abair. One of the most dynamic and accomplished performers in music today, her latest album Wild Heart debuted at #1 on the Billboard Jazz and Contemporary Jazz chart. Abair was a featured saxophonist on the Late Show with David Letterman and American Idol, and has toured with rock legends Aerosmith. Additional award honorees will be […]

By |September 22nd, 2014|Uncategorized|0 Comments
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    The WiMN Announces 2015 She Rocks Award Recipient Mindi Abair

The WiMN Announces 2015 She Rocks Award Recipient Mindi Abair

The Women’s International Music Network (founded by Mad Sun’s Laura B. Whitmore), producer of the annual She Rocks Awards, is thrilled to announce saxophonist, singer and songwriter Mindi Abair as its first selected award recipient for the upcoming 2015 She Rocks Awards. Now in its third year, the event will take place during the NAMM Show on the morning of Jan. 23, 2015 in Anaheim, Calif.

“What an honor to be recognized with a She Rocks Award,” Abair said. “I think back to my childhood and I’m so thankful that no one told me it was odd for a girl to rock the saxophone until it was way too late. What an incredible journey my saxophone and my music has taken me on.”

One of the most dynamic and accomplished performers in music today, Abair’s seventh solo release, Wild Heart, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Jazz and Contemporary Jazz charts. In addition to her acclaimed solo work, Abair was the featured saxophonist on the 2011 and 2012 seasons of American Idol, jammed with Paul Shaffer on the Late Show with David Letterman and joined rock legends Aerosmith for their 2012 summer tour.

More recently, Abair received a 2014 GRAMMY® nomination in the Best Pop Instrumental Album category for Summer Horns, a number one recording with her friends Dave Koz, Gerald Albright and Richard Elliot, four of the most preeminent saxophonists in contemporary music.

The She Rocks Awards pays tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry, and has become a standard at the NAMM Show. Previous award recipients include female industry leaders such as Sheila E, Orianthi, Dinah Gretsch, Janie L. Hendrix, Mary Peavey, and more. The event brings together industry professionals, […]

By |August 27th, 2014|News posts|0 Comments
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Casio and Lightning100 Gear Up for Summer NAMM Events

Casio America, Inc. and radio station Lightning100 have once again teamed up for a partnership promotion in conjunction with the Summer NAMM show in Nashville, TN, which takes place July 17-19, 2014.

Casio and Lightning100 will facilitate a giveaway and other on-air promotions, culminating with a live broadcast from the floor of the Summer NAMM show at the Nashville Music City Center on Friday, July 18 from 11am – 1pm. Listeners can tune in to Lightning100 at 100.1FM in Nashville or worldwide at lightning100.com. The broadcast will include live, in-booth interviews and performances from Daniel Ellsworth and the Great Lakes and Marie Hines.

Later that evening, Casio and Lightning100 will sponsor a live music event at Nashville venue The Pour House (730 8th Ave S) from 7pm – 10pm. Open to the public and free, admittance to the event is on a first come, first serve basis. Showcasing some of Nashville’s best talent, the event will feature popular artists Marie Hines, Tom Brislin and Daniel Ellsworth and the Great Lakes, and spotlight Casio‘s Privia Pro PX-5S keyboard.

Singer/songwriter Marie Hines has earned critical praise for the heartfelt, piano-driven pop sounds found on her latest release, The Tide and the Sea. Hines’ music has been heard on such television shows as MTV’s Awkward and ABC’s The Fosters, and showcased in various capacities by MTV, iTunes, Hallmark, Delta Airlines, Spotify and Forever 21.

A native of New Jersey, musician, songwriter and producer Tom Brislin relocated to Nashville to record his debut solo album, Hurry Up and Smell the Roses. In addition to a successful solo career, Brislin’s work as a professional keyboardist has landed him on tours and recordings by notable artists including Yes, Debbie Harry, Meat Loaf, OK Go, […]

By |July 16th, 2014|News posts|0 Comments
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    Second Annual She Rocks Awards Inspires at the 2014 NAMM Show

Second Annual She Rocks Awards Inspires at the 2014 NAMM Show

The industry gathers to celebrate some of music’s most talented artists, businesswomen, educators and shining new stars.

The Women’s International Music Network (the WiMN) hosted the second annual She Rocks Awards on the morning of Friday, January 24th, during the 2014 NAMM show. Taking place at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel, the event brought together a packed room of industry professionals, music icons, artists, fans, media and more to pay tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry.

The She Rocks Awards opened with an impressive performance from newcomers The Command Sisters. Comprised of 15-year-old Sarah and 18-year-old Charlotte Command, the duo’s soaring vocals and beyond-their-years musicality set the perfect tone for the event.

WiMN founder and She Rocks Awards producer Laura B. Whitmore welcomed the crowd. “The world needs to know that there are women out there making a difference in the music industry,” she shared. “I am thrilled to recognize these deserving musicians, educators, and industry leaders.”

First recognized was “Champion Award”-winner Beth Marlis. As a senior guitar faculty member and Vice President at Musicians Institute, Marlis has become a leader in the world of contemporary music education. Robin Walenta was welcomed to the stage next to receive the “Endurance Award.” Walenta is President and CEO of West Music Company, one of the nation’s largest music retailers, and is the also first woman to serve on NAMM’s Executive Committee. Following Walenta, celebrated Seymour Duncan “pickup winder to the stars” Maricela “MJ” Juarez was presented with the “Legend Award.”

Latin American singer/songwriter Gaby Moreno was recognized with the “Inspire Award.” This Latin GRAMMY-winning artist has charmed audiences all over the world, and brought her highly-talented band to the She Rocks Awards stage to deliver […]

By |February 8th, 2014|News posts|0 Comments
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    Mad Sun’s Laura B Whitmore Hosts Second Annual Women’s Music Summit

Mad Sun’s Laura B Whitmore Hosts Second Annual Women’s Music Summit

The Women’s International Music Network, an organization formed by Mad Sun’s Laura B Whitmore that unites women who work within all facets of the music and audio industries, recently hosted the second annual Women’s Music Summit. Taking place over July 26 – 28th, 2013 at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA, women of all ages and instruments gathered with artist instructors and industry experts for instruction, songwriting collaboration, industry expertise and more.
 
Highlights from WMS 2013 included performances and workshops with guest artists such as Michael Jackson guitar legend Jennifer Batten, Grammy Award winner and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Holly Knight, award-winning pianist and TV/film composer Starr Parodi, all-star Chilean drummer Val Sepulveda and renowned vocal coach/Los Angeles Women in Music President Leanne Summers.
 
Through master classes and informative Q&A sessions, these artists shared their techniques, knowledge and experiences with Summit participants. “It was a blessing to be a part of the gathering of like-minded creative souls at the Women’s Music Summit. I could feel the love of open hearts connecting and sharing,” says guest artist Jennifer Batten. Many attendees had the opportunity to participate in intimate jam sessions with Batten and the other artists as well.
 
“There are a lot of music conferences out there, but the Women’s Music Summit is the only one where I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate creatively with phenomenal musicians from around the world” says WMS attendee/songwriter Allison Tartalia. “The Summit inspires me and nourishes my creative soul.” This was Tartalia’s second year attending the event.

A number of music business panels and discussions took place at the Summit as well. The music publishing and licensing panel featured Briana Alexis (artist and publishing pro), Danica Lynch (Red Temple Music), Michelle Belcher (Universal […]

By |August 14th, 2013|News posts|0 Comments
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