Success For a Friend of Mine

[Casey H]

My good friend, David Choi (aka "applewormy") was just signed on as a staff writer for Warner/Chappell. Since so many ask what it takes to make it, I thought (with his permission) I'd share his story. David is an incredible talent. I've known him since he was 16- he is now 20. Mega-Congrats, my friend!! From David:Where do I start? lol... Well, as a staff writer, you write a certain number of songs; in my case, 10 this year. A co-write equals half a song. My awesome publisher Judy Stakee sets me up with various writers and artists and we basically just write. The focus is to write for either the artist I'm working with, or people who are looking for material (Kelly Clarkson, Backstreet Boys, Cher, etc.). Other than that, there's not much else. I get an advance for the year. Sometimes, all in one check or as a salary. How I got there was luck and persistence. As I posted on [another board] awhile ago, I was in ASCAP's Lester Sill Workshop which Judy was one of the hosts. I was 1 among 15 artists/writers/producers (luck) who were pre-screened for the workshop, so it was fairly private. Keith Emrick from ASCAP was the one who selected my song (That Girl) and he told me he fought to get me in lol (luck. That's why I'm switching over to ASCAP lol). I learned about the workshop through browsing the internet (luck). I knew this was my big chance, so I seized every opportunity I could at the workshop. During the workshop all 15 of us were paired up to write a song together and to make a long story short, me and my collaborator's song was the only one recorded on CD while everyone else performed it live, so I think that showed the seriousness of music I have. I'm not really sure what went on in the "talks backstage" right after the workshop, but I know Brendan Okrent (another host at the ASCAP workshop) had a lot to do with getting the ball rolling to get me signed. She really believes in me and tries hard to connect me with various industry people. So I guess a lot of factors came about to getting me signed. I gave the best impression I could, was nice, and showed how much music is what I wanted to do, while making sure I didn't sound too desperate or annoying. Age also played a big role in my opinion, as I did a lot compared to most people my age (20), which shows my work ethic. I also had a lot in common with Judy including having the same type of dog lol... I also have to say, the music you write needs to sound like what's on the radio NOW. Cookie cutter music, or "bad" music...whatever you want to call it. That's what's selling, so if you don't want to or can't write that, there's the film/tv industry to pitch your songs to which isn't bad at all. Another very important thing I learned which everyone should drill in their heads..."networking" is not knowing someone...networking means becoming their friend. Whether it be A&R reps, publishers, music supervisors, etc. (1) TALENT, (2) persistence, and (3) a touch of luck... But I believe you make your own luck with numbers 1 and 2. Casey

[hummingbird]

Thanks for posting this Casey. It's always good to hear the straight goods from someone in the know. Congrats to David! Geez, does he have to be so young luvMs 'Bird

[nomiyah]

I knew David from Tonos and other forums. I just met him last month at the ASCAP Expo where he recognized me. Congratulations Mr. Wormy.Nomi

[og]

Congrats, David! You've done a lot in a very short time.It is thoroughly depressing to read your words about what is selling, though. That said, it's great that you found a gig doing something you obviously like and are good at. Again, congratulations, and best of luck!