David Bruce Murray
Feb 15, 2008
In The News|Observations
Jason Crabb/Spring Hill Deal
My thoughts match Brandon Coomer’s on the Jason Crabb/Spring Hill announcement.
The phrase “multi-CD deal” is significant, I think. Spring Hill and Crabb have committed to a joint venture over the next few years that will apparently involve a considerable investment in each other’s success. This terminology (coupled with the fact that it’s Spring Hill and Jason Crabb) is much more significant than, say, this announcement from way back in 2003: “MorningStar Signs The Johnson Review.”
That isn’t to say there was anything wrong with the Johnson Review hiring Eddie Crook’s company to make them a CD and being listed on his label in 2003. Clearly, radio hasn’t responded as Crook predicted I’m merely making the point that it’s two completely different levels of artist/label relationship. As far as the average fan knows, having a deal with one label carries just as much weight as having a deal with another label. That isn’t reality, though.
Of course, some artists who sign big multi-CD deals end up doing greatest hits compilations before it’s all said and done so they can fulfill the requirements of their initial agreement. I’m thinking of a group called All Star United, who recorded two CDs for a label and then had a release on the same label titled Smash Hits.
One final observation…I’ve been told more than once that it’s wise to avoid using words like “all” and “never” unless I’m 100% sure of what I’m saying. Most unequivocal statements are technically false. (See, I used the word “most” rather than “all” just then.) Often, terms like “first ever” and “debut” aren’t technically correct either. (See…”often.”)
All that to say…Spring Hill can’t be the “label home for his first-ever solo project,” because Crabb has ALREADY released a solo project. DUH HUH!
