The Best Laid Plans of Mice and Men Often Go Awry

I guess the title of this post is probably the best way to look at the situation I am currently in.  Like all my musician brothers and sisters, I have been planning to record a new album.  I really wanted to record at the premier studio in our city but that was going to take a chunk out of the bank account.  Like many artists who live and die by the grant, I too made an application for a grant.

My goal is to create an album of the songs from the show The Neighbourhood.  I've had great success with the show and wanted to put together an album that has the songs from that show.  I was hoping to include a companion booklet with the photographs that go with the music.

My first application was to FACTOR.  I didn't get that one.  My next attempt at getting on the grant gravy train was to the Ontario Arts Council.  I didn't get that one either.  I'm a bit stubborn when someone tells me I can't do something, so to counter this rejection, I applied again for the same grant.  Yesterday I found out I didn't get it - again.  Deep down inside I knew I would get the grant.  I'm good with lyrics but trying to explain to a board of people who don't know me that I want $10,000, I lack some words skills.

But, not to worry!  I've always had a Plan B.  I will be proceeding with the recording of the album except it will be a scaled-down version.  It will be just me on the acoustic guitar, harmonica and other instruments as necessary; along with my wife, Lynn, singing her fantastic backing vocals.  I have the equipment to record this simplified version of this album.  After all, it is more reflective of how I perform, so best stay true to what I do.  Now I have a question for you.

I have considered trying to increase the budget for the album so I can provide that booklet, hire a couple of guest musicians and produce more than 10 CD's.  One way to do that is via crowdfunding.  I'm sure you've heard of Indigogo and Kickstarter.  I'm considering one of those.  The way it works is depending on how much you pledge, you get some cool bonus stuff from me.  What I'd like to know is, would you consider donating to the project?  The minimum pledge would be $10 and up from there.  Drop me an email in the contact section; I'd love to hear from you.  Thanks!