Frequently Asked Questions

Getting started is simple. Select one of the services above that best fits your needs. If you’d like to discuss further before booking, reach out using the contact link above and we’ll talk through the right next step.

Even during my days working exclusively with signed, major label artists, I was keenly aware of the growing level of incredibly talented unsigned artists that existed. At the time, the access and infrastructure was largely gate-kept, limiting the ability of these great talents to reach the mass market. Much of that has changed today—if you’ve got great music, the opportunity to share it with the world is there more than ever. The thing that hasn’t changed is the need for “industry literacy.” Knowing how to navigate the business behind the music has always been one of the primary factors separating those who have sustained careers and those who get taken advantage of. My professional purpose for nearly 30 years now has been empowering music creatives—artists, writers, producers—to take care of their “business,” so that the dream doesn’t become a nightmare. With me, it’s not about some (likely) unrealistic hope of getting signed, it’s about taking meaningful next steps for YOUR career. IF that is getting signed, then let’s make sure you’re prepared to decide if that’s the best for you. Let’s discover your next steps together!

You can reach me via the “Contact Me” button above. I will respond as quickly as possible.

Collaborative, honest, and supportive. I’m here to help you take the next step on your career journey. Let’s discover that together.

Sideman is where I work with music creatives on the business side of their careers: artist development, A&R direction, and the decisions that come before and after a release. I started it in 2008. The name comes from the sideman, the player who makes everyone else on stage sound better. That's the job.

I've spent nearly three decades in A&R, artist development, and music business. That includes ten years as an A&R executive at EMI Gospel (now Motown Gospel), and work on more than 200 major-label projects with artists like CeCe Winans, Donald Lawrence, Tye Tribbett, Travis Greene, Kierra Sheard, Aaron Neville, and the Backstreet Boys. Those projects have earned 18 GRAMMY recognitions, 26 Billboard No. 1s, and 13 RIAA certifications. I'm also Education Director of Audio Arts at Full Sail University.

Read more about me here.

Artists, songwriters, producers, and aspiring industry professionals who are serious about building a career, not just a moment. Most of my clients are independent or in between deals. Some are just starting to take music seriously; others have had real success and want a clearer plan for what comes next.

No. A lot of my label career was in gospel, but I've worked across pop, R&B, and adult contemporary too. Every genre is welcome. The things that hold artists back (unclear identity, weak business setup, no real plan) look about the same everywhere.

No one can honestly promise that, and you should be wary of anyone who does. What I can do is show you what labels, publishers, and partners actually look for, and help you close the gaps. Consulting provides experienced strategy, feedback, and education; outcomes depend on the artist’s music, execution, team, timing, market, and many other factors. Talent gets you noticed. Readiness gets you signed.

It's the framework behind everything I offer. It's built on the Five Pillars of Artist Development: Craft, Identity, Business, Relationships, and Career. The tools, assessments, and sessions all map back to those five areas, so whether you buy a $19 workbook or book a Career Diagnostic, you're working inside the same system.

Learn more about it here.

• A&R Readiness Scorecard ($19): a full assessment of where your career stands today.

• 90-Day Artist Development Plan ($29): turns your priorities into a 90-day plan you can actually follow.

• Artist Development System ($99): all eight tools in one package, including the Scorecard, the 90-Day Plan, and the Industry Readiness Checklist.

If you're early on or just want a clear picture, start with the Scorecard. If you already know what needs work and want structure, get the 90-Day Plan. If you want everything and plan to work through it over time, the Artist Development System is the better value.

Instant download after checkout. If something doesn't arrive, contact me and I'll sort it out.

VAM stands for Virtual Artist Mentor. It's how I work with artists directly, one-on-one.

• Music Feedback ($150): send me your music and get honest, specific A&R feedback in writing.

• VAM 1-on-1 Session ($350): a live session to work through your questions, your plan, or a decision you're facing.

• Career Diagnostic ($750): a full review of your career across all five pillars, delivered as a written Career Diagnostic Report.

If you mainly want an honest opinion on your songs, start with Music Feedback. If you have specific questions and want to talk them through, book a 1-on-1. If you want a full 360-degree look at all you have going on and tell you how to level up from there, the Career Diagnostic is the one.

You fill out a detailed intake form and send your music and materials. I review everything and send back your Career Diagnostic Report within 14 days. It covers where you're strong, where you're exposed, and the order to tackle things in.

Yes. Through Sideman Professional Services, I handle A&R direction, project management, production administration, and song or album mixing and mastering. I do this work alongside a small group of trusted colleagues I've worked with for years.

Every project is different, so these are quoted individually. Reach out with what you're working on, your timeline, and your budget, and we'll talk through scope. Use this form.

VAM Sessions are typically via Zoom. You'll get the details as soon as you book.

If you are local to the Orlando, FL area and would like to do your session in person, let’s discuss.

Bring links to your music, social profiles, current release plans, relevant materials, and a short list of the decisions or challenges you want to discuss. If you've already done the Scorecard, bring your results. We'll get much further.

Contact me via email by replying to your session confirmation email.

No refunds. However, if you have concerns, please contact me to discuss.

Absolutely. Anything you send me stays between us and is used only for your session or project. If you authorize sending your music to another party (industry connection, etc), I cannot be held responsible for what happens after leaving my possession.

Yes, through DreamLAUNCH, my general career coaching service. It covers resumes, interview prep, college planning, and career strategy for any field.

I developed that course based on my experience of working with music creatives over the past 30 years. The course provides an intimate look into what A&Rs look for and how the record company machine works with artists. The services offered via Sideman are a great complement and value add to the course by providing access to proven and trusted resources aimed at helping you apply what you’ve learned, to your specific situation.

I'd be happy to. Contact me using the button above and share any pertinent details for consideration.

Send it through the contact page and I'll get back to you.

An artist development consultant helps an artist clarify their direction, strengthen their positioning, make better strategic choices, and prioritize the steps that support long-term career growth.

No. Independent and developing artists can use consulting to improve their readiness, release planning, brand, and understanding of the music business before major opportunities arise.