Interview with Sharmila Tredger

I (Kirk Harrington, DDTTRH) recently caught up with Sharmila and I am so happy I did.  I've read her articles online (she works for the Examiner) and always knew she was an avid Duran Duran fan; this led to my interest in interviewing her.  I have also had the pleasure of  talking with her in relation to the DDTTRH effort.  She has followed our effort for quite some time and I have always appreciated her enthusiasm about it.

Hi Sharmila!  Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us at DDTTRH.  One of our core missions is to speak with people just like you who are in the music and entertainment business to get their thoughts on Duran Duran and to raise awareness of how they have impacted music history.

Please tell us about the Examiner.  How long have you worked with them and have you always covered concerts or do you write about other topics as well?

The Exmaminer.com is a media company that operates a network of local news websites, allowing pro-am contributors to share their city-based knowledge in the areas of music, fashion, lifestyle and everyday news on a blog-like platform, in 238 markets throughout the United States and parts of Canada.

I have been a NY Concert Reporter with The Examiner since September of 2012 and covered an array of music concerts and fashion events from New York Fashion Week to Counting Crows, Chic and Nile Rodgers to Duran Duran…of course.

I've read that you've worked in the entertainment industry for the last 15 years.  Can you tell us where else you have been and what led up to you becoming a reporter?

My career started out working on film and television show sets in New York City. My first job was on The Cosby Show as a production assistant while studying Television and Film Production at St. John’s University in Queens, NY. It was an opportunity that I was determined to make mine and my shear persistence paid off. I spent 2 seasons working with a great cast of talented actors. After I graduated with a B.S. in Communication Arts, I went on to work on many commercials, films and television shows, such as Sex and the City and MTV’s Celebrity Deathmatch as a Production/Business Manager and Line Producer. After eighteen years of working in television and film, I needed a new direction, but at the same time wanted to continue to work in the sane industry. So I made the jump to Digital Advertising, working as a Production Business Manager for Digital Studio at R/GA down in Hell’s Kitchen in New York City. This experience brought me to a whole different level in regards to how products were represented in the digital world. After three and a half years in Advertising, I felt the need to revisit my passion for writing and photography. I published my first children’s book in 2012, launched a photography and quotes website, started writing lyrics and re-learned how to play the acoustic guitar. While keeping myself busy, my love of music grew in a different direction. I started analyzing melodies and lyrics. And the first album that I ripped apart was Duran Duran’s “All You Need Is Now.” While the band was in full tour motion, I made my way to see them live at Foxwood’s, Madison Square Garden and Atlantic City with a group of Duraniacs. I figured, my hardcore passion for music needed to make its way from my head to paper, so I started approaching PR agencies to review new album releases and indie artists. Surprisingly, the response was overwhelming, so I signed up with The Examiner and a few other publications. This road to reporting has opened many doors for me. While I still spend many nights in photo pits, trekking my gear in and out of the city, I started my own business as a Music Agent, representing several independent musicians and speakers. This universe is so drenched in talent, but there are a few that strike a chord in me and having the opportunity to help them grow as artists and exposing them to the world is the biggest reward.

I've seen you write about Duran Duran.  For example, I saw that you covered John Taylor's book release that happened recently.  Are you a big fan of the band?  Are you passionate about them and please tell us why!

Passionate about their music, yes. I’m part of the 30+ club. I hope that doesn’t give my age away. Music was my outlet, a way to express or hold back. And when I first heard of Duran Duran, it was the easiest thing to digest at the time. I really had no idea who I was as a teenager dealing with the world and they knew exactly who I was. They understood me. As my obsession with the band grew, my love of music became my sanctuary. I bought every album, poster, button, t-shirt and anything that had their face or name on it. I plastered every inch of my bedroom wall and closet with their gorgeous beings. I spent the last thirty plus years listening to their music, but it wasn’t until a few years ago, when I started reconnecting with other Duranies and experiencing them live. Having built up my reputation as a writer and photographer with several agencies, I was stoked when I was granted coverage of Duran Duran’s Foxwoods venue and John Taylor’s book signing in New York City on my birthday of last year. I honestly have to say that it was an overwhelming feeling when I was in that room at Sirius XM, standing face to face with the man I had a crush on growing up. It was a different this time because now I’m no longerfangirling, I’m actually there to cover a story, a story about a man whose overcome his demons and it was my responsibility as a reporter to capture this moment and share it with the Duran community. I have the utmost respect for him as a musician and human being. My devotion for the band will live and die with me, but while I still dance through life, I will continue to find a way to get the interview of a lifetime with the band that was born to make me dance!

Its interesting how you portray your experience with Duran Duran.  Mine is similar, except I am not much of a collector (don't tell Andy Golub).  I actually showed my devotion through how I dressed, through sharing with my high school friends my interest in them (though sometimes I was ridiculed...I was considered too effeminate, particularly by 'the jocks').  I have listened to their music for years.  Like you, only certain music touches a chord with me.  Duran Duran has a way of 'singing to my soul' like no other music has.  I too only recently connected with Duranies through Duran Duran to the Rock Hall.  My first live concert experience was here in Cleveland when they came for All You Need is Now.  I have not met any of the band in person...though you might think its funny that I've had dreams of them since DDTTRH.

You mentioned the word 'Duraniacs'--did you mean Duranies?  Tell us what you think is the difference between Duranie and Duraniac (this should be a fun one for you).  I know I've met all kinds of fans...some I am more glad to have met than others (to be honest).

Duraniac is an individual who has a stratospheric devotion to the band Duran Duran. Certainly not one who is insane or dangerous. Duraniacs have an increased spirit, a reflex of intoxicating happiness, a fight or flight kind of attitude and a highly reduced sense or fear of danger.

Not to say that Duranies are that much different. Where we differ, is the overwhelming respect we have for each other. We are a group of women who are above and beyond elated when other's are granted opportunities to connect with the band in ways we never dreamed of. The fabric of our being in no way is that of jealous tirades strewn up and down social timelines and hidden behind direct messages.

Tell us about some of the fun moments you've had connecting with Duran fans?  Tell us about some of the people you've met or had nice experiences with.

Over the last 2 years, my circle of fiends has changed shape in the form of a "D". I have friends that I grown up with since elementary school and have stayed in and out of touch til today, but the Duraniacs friends that I have made have touched my life two fold. We experienced loss that has made our bond inseparable and we have experienced elation that gives life to the memories we have made. 

Standing in line at Terminal 5 and the whole Steve Aoki experience has got be one of my highlights of 2012. I started out 3rd in line and somehow ended up further back as the day turned to night but managed to get right in front of the Bass God along with my Duraniacs Angela and Shannon when we were finally able to get in. Here we are, a group of 40 something women and a few men in a sea of 20 something men and women trying to stand our ground to see Duran Duran perform only to be bathed in bubbly and painted with Kermit the frog green cake icing. Fun times had by all and certainly an experience I would honestly love to relive again.

The "All You Need Is Now" tour made it's way to my side of the globe at The MGM Grand at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, CT and as a reporter, this was one venue that I had to cover. I was granted a press pass and polished my gear...my camera that is. Needless to say my camera was knocked out of my hands as the hordes of Duranies bum rushed the stage as soon the lights faded to black. 

It was back on the road and off to the Revel, which was cancelled due to Nick Rhodes illness, but we made the best of our stay and created more life memories. But the one memory that holds true for all of us Duraniacs, is our "Duranies Who Brunch" luncheon at Brother Jimmy's in NYC on March 25, 2012. It's sole purpose was for us to bond in person and not over some social cable that we held into as our only means of communication. For some it went as far as Scotland and for others it was local. We ate, we drank and we mad life long friends. And unfortunately two weeks later, our dear friend, Sandy Isabella-Ahrens passed away. If ones heart could break into pieces so minuscule, than that's how I would describe the state we were in when we heard of her passing. Today our bond continues to strengthen and our memories continue to grow. To all my #DuraniesWhoBrunch girls, Angela Grella-Oropallo, Sandy Isabella-Ahrens, Kayren Campbell, Cynthia Graham-Hughes, Shannon Marie Moyer, Petra Jorden, Lee Ellen Becker, Brandi Goldstein, Margherita Maramonte Leffe and Claudine Commisso, I will always hold a special place in my heart for them.

Sharmila...  it's been so great getting to know you more.  Thanks so much for interviewing with us.  Here are your final questions:

Who is your favorite band member of Duran Duran and why?

To choose or not to choose that is not even an option. Even thirty three years ago I had a tough time choosing. They each represented something different to me. The instruments they played, the way they dressed and the way they conducted themselves on stage. Till this day, I admire them just as any mother would admire her children, equally in their own way.

If you could meet this band member, what would you ask him or talk to him about?

I’ve had the honor of meeting the band on more than one occasion and I’m above and beyond grateful. It is an indescribable feeling to most brought on by the connection that we make when the music makes its way to our ears and down into our hearts and souls. It’s pretty deep. An afternoon with the band talking and singing about music and life as opposed to asking them questions that have been asked numerous times over would suit me just fine.

Is there anything you would like to say to our DDTTRH fans...or to DDTTRH as we continue to do what we do?  Words of wisdom much appreciated.

Duran Duran will always have the best fans any band can ask for. We have been there fromthe start and we will continue to support their music as long as they continue to believe that their music is just as essential to the water we drink and the air that we breathe.

Interview with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Meredith Rutledge-Borger

If you google 'Meredith Rutledge-Borger, you will learn of the passion she has as a curator at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  In reading about her, here are some quotes I found that provide insight into what she is about and more about this passion she brings to her work:

"I am an old-school, vinyl LP lover. For me, a huge part of the experience of music has been holding a 12 by 12 album cover in my hands, minutely examining the artwork, the liner notes, the credits – CDs and MP3s just don’t work the same way."  Quote from Women Who Rock Exhibition Installation, Update #2, April 27, 2011
http://rockhall.com/blog/post/5790_women-who-rock-exhibit-install2/


"It’s been said that fashion and style are the natural visual counterparts to creative musical expression. Rock and roll artists have had a long relationship with the world of high fashion — picture Elvis Presley’s iconic gold lamé suit designed by Nudie, then fast forward to Madonna’s equally iconic gold bustier designed by Jean Paul Gaultier.  Fashion designers like Gaultier, Thierry Mugler and  Gianni Versace have all become synonymous with the branding of rock stars like Madonna, Mick Jagger and Elton John."  Quote from Fashion Meets Rock and Roll, February 12, 2013
http://rockhall.com/blog/post/3821_fashion-meets-rock-and-roll/

In a NY times article, she is quoted as saying this about the Women Who Rock exhibit (which was on display at the Rock Hall in 2011/2012)...

“Women have always been the outsiders of rock ’n’ roll...we wanted to show that women persevered and their music — and there were different kinds — became part of the fabric of the rock ’n’ roll industry...they were singers and they were songwriters, instrumentalists, producers and even record-label owners.”  Article:  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/28/arts/artsspecial/women-who-rock-exhibit-traces-female-music-artists-in-america.html

You can also read about Meredith travelling to the UK to do research for a 2-Tones record exhibit (http://rockhall.com/blog/post/9174_spotlight-exhibit-preview-2-tone-records-rock-hall/).  You can also learn more from her about the Beatles 'Apple Boutique':  http://rockhall.com/blog/post/9351_gallery-talk-the-beatles-apple-boutique-exhibit/.  You may also learn that the movie 'Lady Sings the Blues' which stars Diana Ross (who portrays Billie Holiday) "may well have been introduction to being a music curator!":  http://rockhall.com/blog/post/6155_bessie-smith-billie-holiday/

Kirk at DDTTRH caught up with Meredith while she was busy working on a major exhibit for the Rolling Stones which opens May 24th.  Here is our interview with her:


Kirk, DDTTRH:  Meredith, thank you for taking the time to speak with me.  Something I thought would be great to do is to speak to someone at the 'other side' of our effort, which represents the 'RH' in our name...DDTTRH or Duran Duran to the 'Rock Hall'.  

I've been reading up on you a bit and some of the exhibits you've talked about.  How long have you been an Assistant Curator at the Rock Hall and what do you enjoy most about what you do?

Meredith:  I’ve been working for the Rock Hall since 1996. I started in the curatorial department in 1999. I really enjoy the fact that I am getting paid to follow my passion, and that I have the opportunity to share that passion with our visitors – giving them fresh insight into the music that changed the world.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  I love that you have passion for what you do.  I remember my last visit to the Rock Hall...I really enjoyed the exhibits that to me were put together with great care.  I actually learned a lot just reading and perusing through them.  One thing that interested me most was a video I was able to see about the history of Rock and the various branches that Rock created.  Further, I remember seeing the David Bowie exhibit and thinking that he is not necessarily under the definition of 'Classic Rock' (would you agree?).  Has the Rock Hall changed its views over the years about what it considers to be the classic 'vein' of Rock and Roll and how have those views affected the bands/artists it inducts?

Meredith:  Here at the Hall of Fame we try to be inclusive rather than exclusive in terms of our definition of rock and roll.  We also make an effort not to glue artists in to any one particular pigeon-hole – artists are just artists who bring their own unique skill-set to the table.  So we honor artists that are traditionally defined as rock artists, but also artists whose work predates rock and roll, work that we consider to be the roots of rock and roll. Any music that shares those roots – even if it is outside of the traditional definitions of rock and roll, is all welcome at our table. Traditionally-defined “classic” rock and roll carries no more weight here than folk music, or R&B or hip-hop. The criteria for induction as an artist (as a performer, composer, or musician) into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is that the artist must have released a record, in the generally accepted sense of that phrase, at least 25 years prior to the year of induction; and have demonstrated unquestionable musical excellence. We consider factors such as an artist’s musical influence on other artists, length and depth of career and the body of work, innovation and superiority in style and technique, but musical excellence is the essential qualification for induction. 

Kirk, DDTTRH:  Please define what you mean by 'musical excellence'.  That can be subjective, right?  I guess it would depend on who you speak to.  Who helps decide if an artist is 'excellent'?

Meredith: Everyone personalizes everything about rock and roll.  Without metrics, the definition of "rock and roll," who is or was important, and who should be inducted is inevitably subjective. 

As a result, our Nominating and Voting Committees are replete with Inductees (in fact, they are the largest bloc of voters).The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has built our Voting Committee around the most qualified group possible:  the living Inductees, which number around 400 at this time.  

The selection of Performers is a two-step process.  It begins with a Nominating Committee consisting of a diverse panel of living inductees, journalists, educators, historians, noted musicians, industry heads, etc. Each member receives a guide noting those eligible for the first time, those who have been nominated unsuccessfully before and all other eligible artists.  Virtually every significant artist of the past 50 years has been discussed at this level.  A large majority are very qualified but have yet to get the votes to make the final ballot.  Some have even made it on the ballot numerous times, but have not received sufficient votes to be inducted. 

Those nominated are sent to a Voting Committee of about 600 people (all living inductees, educators, journalists, historians, music industry management, musicians, etc.) around the world. Again, the factors to be considered are impact, innovation and influence on this music that we broadly define as rock and roll, as well as their overall “musical excellence”  - as defined by working musicians.

Gold records, number one hits, and million sellers are not appropriate standards for evaluation.  Standards for artistic merit cannot be objective, because such standards are historically and culturally constructed.  Artistic merit can’t be measured by stats.  What is valued as good music or visual art or literature changes over time, depending on cultural conditions and who is deciding.

Those receiving the highest number of votes are inducted into the Hall. Usually, this means five to seven new performing members each year. 

Having said all this, I believe that all worthy candidates will be inducted, just not always when they or their fans deem timely.  This phenomenon is not unique to us.  The sports halls of fame have had many great stars that do not get inducted in their early years of eligibility or for many years to come.  

Kirk, DDTTRH:   Thank you Meredith for this fabulous explanation!  I think its important for fans to know about and understand so they don't take it 'personal' if their band is passed over repeatedly.  I think RUSH is a great example of this.  As part of a group trying to raise awareness for our favorite band (Duran Duran of course), I have had my 'ears to the ground' about other efforts and I know those RUSH folks have been waiting for quite some time now.  I am very happy that RUSH was able to be inducted this year.  I also have talked to Greg Method (also a native Clevelander) and he is promoting Weird Al Yankovic I know.

On that note--I noticed something new and exciting this year that led up to the induction ceremonies.  There was a poll on your website which lets people place their votes for who they think should be inducted.  Can you tell us more about that?  Do these votes really mean anything prior to the final decisions?  I'm sure these kind of votes would not hold the kind of weight the living inductees would...I do think its rather fun though which is why I'm asking about it.

Meredith:  For the first time in its history, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame offered fans the opportunity to officially participate in the induction selection process. The public had the opportunity to vote for the five nominees most deserving of induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The top five artists, as selected by the public, comprised a “fans’ ballot” that was tallied along with the other ballots to choose the 2013 inductees,  The fans’ ballot counted as one vote – on several occasions the difference in who gets inducted is decided by one vote, so this is significant. The Hall of Fame adopted this model from the Heisman Trophy organization, which uses a similar method to allow fans the opportunity to vote on winners.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  This is exciting!  And, this is especially great for fans who actually would look forward to see their voted on act inducted into the museum.  Do you plan on doing the same thing in 2014?

Meredith:  As far as I know, we plan on keeping the fans’ ballot in place for future inductions.

 
Kirk, DDTTRH:  Speaking of the museum, I have heard that although Duran Duran has not been inducted yet, it has received items from the band--my guess is that most things are in storage.  Further, a friend of mine who is an archivist in Seattle has said to me that he has helped in getting items to the Rock Hall.  Is this true, and if so...what kind of things do you have from Duran Duran?

Meredith:  We have had multiple items of clothing on loan from John Taylor and Nick Rhodes, and we had a John Taylor bass.  All of the items were on extended exhibit in the Museum at various times throughout the years, and because they were loans, they were returned to the band.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  This is good to hear.  I'm sure John wanted his bass back [;.  This next question has to do with attitudes I'm sure you've come across in regards to the Rock Hall.  Many bands and artists think that the Rock Hall is too political, that its too much like a business, and that its aim is not to induct the most deserving artists, but the ones that can bring in the most ticket revenue.  Some have even knocked on your black tie dinners that are held during induction time and the extravagant ticket prices (I've heard its about $2500 per ticket).  They may see these events and ceremonies as too 'posh' and artists that have either been inducted or are eligible may look unfavorably at you.

What would you say to people like this that criticize the Rock Hall in this way?

Meredith:  A lot of folks don’t know that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is a not-for-profit, 501-3c educational institution. As a non-profit, all of our Museum ticket sales and the funds that come to us from the Foundation, which puts on the induction ceremony, go towards fulfilling our mission – running the Museum, putting together exhibits and award-winning educational programs that serve toddlers to seniors., both in the Museum, and around the world via our Distance Learning programs. The Induction Ceremony is essentially a benefit – a fund-raiser for the Museum, and the ticket prices to the Ceremony reflect that.

 
Kirk, DDTTRH:  And a related question...What is the image you strive to convey to guests as a curator at the Rock Hall?

Meredith:  In terms of the kind of image I want to project for the Museum as a curator – rock and roll is so many different things to different people, so there’s no one image to project. If there is one idea that I want to project, it is that of welcoming and inclusion. This is the music that changed the world and brought people together – I want our visitors to feel welcome and see themselves represented.  I also want to challenge visitors’ ideas of what rock and roll IS, and show them where it came from, where it’s going and how it really did change the world.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  What other types of things is the Rock Hall Foundation involved in?  Is it just overseeing the Museum and its inductees?

Meredith:  In 1983, A small group of music industry professionals led by Atlantic Records Founder and Chairman Ahmet Ertegun and including Rolling Stone magazine publisher Jann Wenner, attorney Allen Grubman, manager Jon Landau and record executives Seymour Stein, Bob Krasnow along with attorney Suzan Evans set out to establish an organization to “recognize the people who have created this music which has become the most popular music of our time.” Ertegun approached the heads of various record companies with his idea, spearheading the formation of the non-profit organization that would eventually become the Foundation. 

In 1986, the Foundation held the first annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. That same year, the Foundation selected Cleveland as the permanent home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
 
In September 1995, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum opened in Cleveland. In 2006, Joel Peresman, a music industry veteran and former chief of Concerts and Entertainment at Madison Square Garden, became President and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation. Under Peresman’s leadership, the Foundation announced the return of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies to Cleveland in 2009 and every three years thereafter.  The Foundation also staged the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary concerts on October 29 and 30, 2009, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. These historic shows and their broadcast on HBO helped fund the first-ever endowment for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland. 
 
In addition to these projects, the Foundation provided an $8 million gift in 2008 to the Museum’s Capital Campaign, which was used to build the Library and Archives center in downtown Cleveland and the 2010-2011 Redesign of the Museum interior. The Foundation also provides funding for Museum capital projects on an on-going basis and continues to be the largest single contributor to the Museum.
 
Beyond funding, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation leverages its presence in one of the world’s major cultural and philanthropic centers to provide increased exposure for the Museum mission, connections to artists and philanthropists, and other partnerships to advance the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum’s cultural preservation initiatives.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  This question comes from one of our fans.  They were wondering if you had seen the recent Mercury News poll regarding dream inductees to the Rock Hall...Duran Duran made it to the top 4, which is exciting!  http://www.mercurynews.com/entertainment/ci_22927434/rock-and-roll-hall-fame-duran-duran-kiss

Meredith:  How much does public opinion and polling factor into the induction process?  When it comes right down to it, all the induction voters are FANS – whether they are past inductees, journalists, academics, record company executives – fans with the same differences of opinion as other members of the public about what music has made a difference and who should be recognized. As I said in a previous email, we are sure that ALL DESERVING artists will eventually  be recognized.

Kirk, DDTTRH:   This next question comes from Suzanne, one of our fans...
"Has the Rock Hall considered renaming the museum "music Hall of Fame" since many nominees and inductees are clearly not Rock & Roll stars?"

Meredith:  As I think I may have mentioned earlier, we try to be inclusive rather than exclusive here at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We broadly define rock and roll to include the music that predates rock and roll and was important to the development of rock and roll.  We also open our doors to music that we understand as sharing the same roots as rock and roll, so that would include soul, metal, R&B, folk, hip-hop, disco, techno, roots rock, alternative…we embrace diversity and try not to pidgeonhole artists or styles. The definition of what rock and roll is shifts as this is a living artform, constantly growing.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  I had a couple of extra questions, hope you don't mind.  One is a fun one from me and the other is really a favor for a 'Friend of Mine' (Duran Duran pun intended) who also has an effort that started in Cleveland for his favorite artist, Weird Al Yankovic.  

What do you think?  Weird Al at the Rock Hall?  He certainly is a unique artist and has a depth and breadth of work that it pretty amazing...albeit satirical.  Has his name come up do you know in any discussion of inductees?

Meredith:  Since Weird Al released his first record in 1978, his name, along with everyone else who released their first recordings in 1978, has been in consideration as a nominee since 2005. As I’ve said before, we believe that every deserving artist will be recognized eventually. 

Kirk, DDTTRH:  So, lets imagine Duran Duran does get inducted one day to the Rock Hall (which I know would make a lot of people in my group happy).  As a curator that helps in building displays, what artist or band would you put them beside?  What kinds of things would you show about them to highlight their musical contributions?

Meredith:  When Duran Duran artifacts were on display here in the past, we exhibited them along with other artists of the 1980s.  While I do ant to emphasize that we try not to cram artists into a pigeonhole here, we do like to  give visitors a sense of the chronology of the music.

Kirk, DDTTRH:  This was certainly an enlightening interview.  Thank you SO MUCH for sharing with us your time.  Its so refreshing to know that the Rock Hall and the foundation is out and about 'doing good' for Cleveland and the world in its great mission of preserving music history and our rich music culture.

 

To learn more about Meredith Rutledge-Borger and her work at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, please visit the Rock Hall's website:  http://rockhall.com/blog/author/meredith-e-rutledge-borger/

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall and its mission to raise awareness of Duran Duran and its impact on music history, please visit:  http://www.ddttrh.info/

To learn about how Greg Method, also a fellow Clevelander, who is trying to 'Make the Rock Hall Weird', please visit:  http://www.allthingsyank.com/rockhall/

 

 

 

 

 

Lessons Learned Blog 4 of X

Due to the sensitive nature of Blog 3 of X (and to be respectful of those mentioned in it), I decided to share that one privately with certain people.  If you are interested in Blog 3 of X, please email me through the ddttrh.info site and I can share it with you.

I did though want to share this tidbit from it, as the start of Blog 4 of X...

Something I need to admit is this...and I know I've mentioned it before to some of you.  I do not know everything there is to know about Duran Duran.  I have not lived and breathed them every minute of every day since they came out (I do appreciate those who have--I learn a lot from you [:)  I will say that I have appreciated their music for years and what I said in the article to Jeff Piorworski in the Sun Times article about their music 'singing to my soul' is absolutely true.

You might ask why I didn't go to more of their concerts over the years.  Well, because of childhood circumstances, being called on a mission to South America, financial struggles, being in college, getting married and struggling again...it was not in the cards.  I did make it though to my first concert recently, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life.  I was so excited to be there and to be representing the band in my very little way...I called the press to come and film me...and they came!  You can watch that here...
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/entertainment/rock_hall/local-duran-duran-fan-feels-80s-pop-band-needs-to-be-inducted-in-rock-hall-

 Because of this experience, I had an 'Epiphany' about this effort and about life, really.  Here are some cherished excerpts from it (you can read the full version in the Blog archives, October 2011)...

The Rock Hall may not really deserve Duran Duran and its not really necessary that Duran Duran be there. They are legends already, they have made music history already and no honor, induction, and award will make a difference.

I got to see the amazing and beautiful community of Duranies at this concert and I was overwhelmed by the love they had for Duran Duran and the love Duran Duran had for them. Something Simon said during the concert resonated with me. He said something like 'I see a bunch of happy people!'. Thats what its about, what its always been about for them...making people happy.

In life its not about the rewards you get or the 'recognition'...its about the people whose lives you touch, the love you show them, and the happiness you give them. Duran Duran has certainly showed this to their fans. If you think about it, its 'The World' that focuses on such honors...of making someone better than someone else. The lyric from All You Need is Now comes to mind..."Everybody's gunning for the VIP section...but you're better off in running in the other direction".

I just want to tell Duran Duran and the fans that I get it now. I started this effort just wanting to give back to the band that meant so much to me growing up and means so much to me today. I am left feeling though that I've been giving back the wrong way.

I just want to say sorry to all of you, including Duran Duran, for not seeing it this way sooner. There was something about seeing this band live that has had a changing effect on me....like something awoke in me...a realization...a new happiness.

To be frank, this epiphany leaves me with an identity crisis. I mean what is the point of beating on the Rock Hall's door about Duran Duran? There are other campaigns out there that have done the same thing and they have gotten nowhere. They have focused so much on hating the Rock Hall...continued disappointment with them because their favorite band is snubbed. Even more silly is the notion that one band must get in 'before another'. I mean, its not a race is it? Especially if these bands have already made history, already are legendary, and no award in a Hall can change that

The focus will no longer be on 'getting Duran Duran into the Rock Hall', but of promoting the band...getting people talking about them again...raising awareneness to them and how they've left an indelible impressions on music history and on the hearts and minds of their fans everywhere.

 As you can imagine, this Epiphany was important to DDTTRH and crucial in its progression.  It truly became a 'phoenix moment' for us as we went through the fire of re-creating ourselves.  Something you may not know (or have realized at the time) is that it also made for some interesting confusion with the DDTTRH staff.  We were left with the questions of 'What do we do now?', 'What should out new focus be?', 'Do we kill the effort or keep it?', 'What do we do with the petition?'.  Some of these questions have already been answered, and some are being answered through our branch-off effort, Duran Duran Worldwide (www.ddworldwide.info).

The decision was also made during this period to release the entire DDTTRH staff and start anew.  Kandice decided to leave (which was a very sad moment for me personally), and Anitra went on to bigger things.  Christian stayed on and we kept our Youtube specialist from Australia, Jake Crawford.  Josie Beaudoin has also stayed on as our editor for both DDWW and DDTTRH.

Before the Epiphany and still today, DDTTRH has had its moments.  Like any good cause, it has also had its opposition, critics, and detractors.  It has also had its funny moments and welcome friendships and support that has come from sometimes unexpected and fabulous places.  I think you will surprised to know just from where.

Next time...

• Learn about some amazing and fun moments we've had at DDTTRH
• I will also talk about some of the supporters that have come forth from sometimes unexpected and fabulous places

Lessons Learned 2 of X

I remember my first fan of DDTTRH was my wife, Claudia.  That will always be special to me.  I was happy too when I found early committed fans (like Anitra and Jason) who were willing to give of their time for the cause.  After Anitra and Jason there were Kandice, Josie and Christian.  I don't want to forget to mention Jake as well who has helped us in our most recent past with Youtube videos.

We've had our challenges as well, and these challenged mostly had to do with human resources.  Once we started to grow, I realized there was a need to delineate tasks associated with DDTTRH.  The Youtube piece was overseen by Jason and the Artist interview piece was Anitra.  Then Kandice became in charge of the petition (we nicknamed her fondly the 'Petition Duchess').  Christian's talents were on making websites and he had the extra charge of reaching out to other Duran fan sites to ask their support (if you go to 'Fansites' under the heading 'The Effort' most of those sites there he helped spread the word to).  The other thing we felt we needed early on was a logo to represent our effort.  To do that we had a logo contest and there were many who entered.  It was Nabeel from California that won.  He created our first logo:

The other thing we felt we needed was a Rock Hall Liaison.  This would be someone who hopefully had connections with the Rock Hall that could reach out to committee members and let them know about us.  Someone volunteered for that position.  She started off fabulous.  In fact, given that we were doing research on Duran Duran (mainly on bands that were influenced by them and where Duran Duran was mentioned in media), we needed someone to write up something about how Duran Duran has been involved with community service.  She did an amazing job on a writeup to this effect.  You can see it at our website under the Duran Duran--Community Service link. 

The next thing I was working on with her was a letter which we would present to various persons on the Rock Hall committee letting them know about us.  We went through a draft and a final version, but nothing went farther.  It got so bad the not hearing from her, that after repeatedly reaching out to her and not hearing from her, the rest of the staff and myself decided to let her go.  I found out later that she had taken an extra job and had no time to help out.  To this day I wish she had just said something instead of just not communicating.

I still have that letter by the way--any volunteers to send it out to people on the Rock Hall committee?

Then there was what happened with Nabeel.  He had a serious car accident.  He was hit by a UPS truck and from talking with him, I believe it damaged him extensively.  I had conversations with him after his accident and I could tell how down of spirits he was.  Then there was a point where I didn't hear from him again.  Others of the staff were concerned about him and also tried to reach out, but nobody heard anything back.  To this day we don't know what happened with Nabeel.  He will always have an important place as part of the history of the DDTTRH effort...particularly in giving us our first amazing logo.  We let Nabeel go after not hearing from him for a long period of time.

There were other challenges too.  I had one guy who was interested in helping to be our Blogging Specialist.  I trained him and everything.  Then, I remember there being floods in his area and he told me he no longer had time to help (which is fine--I was happy he at least said something).  I tried to get someone else in his place, and there was a promising candidate to do it, but that petered out quickly. 

Then there was the matter of trying to call City, Country Representatives.  One of them we called and I was hoping they'd be more 'asking us what they can do' vs. us 'telling them what to do'.  We also needed help to translate our blogs to different languages.  Several signed on and when I gave them work to do, nothing came back.  There was someone (Mr. Mystere we call him) that was very helpful with French translations...but he was an exception to the norm.  Another exception was Radio Creme Brulee--we were excited when Pranav (who owns it) reached out to us and was willing to represent Chicago.  I actually met Pranav in Chicago when I was on a business trip.  We had a great chat on ideas of how to promote the effort.  It led to our first Youtube promotion which so far has been fairly a success.  In fact, it was thanks to that discussion that I had the courage to reach out to Katy who works with Duran Duran who gave us signed posters (and she was very happy to do it).  Pranav has not been able to help us as much as he wants too...but something I appreciate about Pranav is that he has told me upfront how busy he is and while he wishes he could do more, he does what he can.

This is really all we wanted from people, and still do.  If they can't help, don't say they can and then quit.  If they start and can't help, let us know, please be upfront with us instead of not communicating straight up with us.  We understand that everyone has lives and is busy.  If you want to help, great, give in what little ways you can...we would appreciate that.  But just 'don't give' because you think you're being inconvenient to us or know you can't give more than you think we expect.  What I'm trying to say is that any little effort you do is appreciated, because all the little efforts eventually will add up to something great.

You might ask why this is important to blog about?  One of the reasons that has caused rifts and problems in our group is essentially this...the lackluster or 'lack-of-follow-through' commitment of some of the fans to DDTTRH.  We even had one representative, who was to represent us in California.  He said he had connections with some famous people and it was thanks to him that we received an email of support from a friend of the band's.  Then, he had offered to present shirts to the band with special messages to the band on our behalf.  I was less disappointed about him falling through on the t-shirts than I was with the dropping off from committing the support (or at least being upfront with me on reasons why).  I actually enjoyed my conversations with him and I was looking forward to somewhat of a friendship...but I've tried and tried to reach out to him and its as if no one is there.

And the other thing that was troublesome was when I asked Kandice if she could help with the representatives and when she reached out to him and others, she was not contacted back.  It was almost as if they felt as they were being treated 'less' because I was having another valued member of our staff contact them.  I never understood this and don't to this day.

Or perhaps you are of the camp that since a couple of members of Duran Duran have said they don't like the Rock Hall (though haven't said explicitly that they would not accept nomination [:--had to put that in there), that we should just do nothing to raise awareness about the band.  It doesn't matter to you that the band's friends and many other have shown support for DDTTRH.  You of all people should know that the band avoids trying to be recognized for the great contributions they've done for the music industry.  I believe that if they were nominated, they would be gracious about it.  I mean--if they were totally against the Rock Hall (which I believe they're not), why would they donate historical pieces to them?  Did you know they did that?

You don't have to go very far in the fan community before you meet someone who 'wants a piece' of Simon, Roger, Nick, or John.  I mean, who wouldn't?  DDTTRH is different than this...it gives you an opportunity...different than any fan group out there...the opportunity to give back to the band that has meant so to all of us...thats what its always been about.  Take away everything else...the imperfections of the people serving in DDTTRH...the structures and organization...the promotions...the 'Rock Hall' in our name....whats left is its sole mission.  We seek to raise awareness of a band that had made history and continues to do so.

~~~~~
Next time....

• Learn about other unique challenges that we've had at DDTTRH.  Some of them, I admit I unintentionally caused...some I admit I have no idea on earth why they happened, or why they were a source of such contention.
• The next blog will also set the stage for the blog about 'The Epiphany' and why that was so important to DDTTRH and changing who we are.

Lessons Learned, Blog 1 of X

I don't know how many blogs it will take, but it doesn't matter really.  Things need to be said and I am the one at DDTTRH, besides Christian, that is left to say them.  In the end, I'm hoping you will all see what DDTTRH is really all about and will be willing to join with us (whether here or at DDWW) as we romote Duran Duran.

I started out DDTTRH for one main, innocent reason...to give homage to a band that has truly blessed my life with the gift of their music.  Though some may question it, I have listened religiously to Duran Duran ever since the first time I purchased their Seven and the Ragged Tiger album.  And the story I told of when I shared their music to my parents in the car, and my Dad said to my Mom..."listen honey, this is alternative music" is absolutely true and will always be a fond memory of mine.  I knew then as I know now that Duran Duran's music is special.  Its unique and different.  And it disappoints me sometimes when Simon says that they are the ultimate party band...almost saying that their music is 'just party music', when to me its so much more.  Their music has transported me to places I could never go to in my life and given me an art form to appreciate that I have and continue to appreciate as it is released.

And I will be honest and say that I only went to my first Duran Duran concert last year.  It was an amazing moment in my life, one I will never forget.  And it was me that was outside the venue where it took place passing out fliers for people to sign the Rock Hall petition.  I was grateful of Maria Sbrocco as well who helped me that day...in the rain.  What a great example of a fan that truly saw what DDTTRH was about and who, through her honest efforts, believed and did something for the band that meant so much to her.  How exciting it was that day as well to have the press involved and have them film me doing something good for the band.  I will say though that I was disappointed that they angled the story as if I was the only one doing it and was a bit of a 'crazy' fan...the press will find ways to do that I suppose.  No matter...I am proud to say that I am a Duranie and am not ashamed of it.

Since we started this effort, DDTTRH, it hasn't been an easy road.  There were two that came on and believed in what this effort stood for...Jason and Anitra.  Jason, for family and time reasons could not stay with us, but is still to this day one of our supporters.  Anitra has done amazing things to jump-start the effort...interviewing bands and artists that were excited to speak up for the band...artists excited for the chance to do so.  Kandice joined later, along with Josie.  Both of these ladies have done and did amazing things for DDTTRH. 

Kandice...our Petition Duchess...who tirelessly reached out to fans to sign the petition and followed up with every interview Anitra did to make sure they signed and told their friends.  When Kandice left, it was a hard day for me.  She recently sent me a binder with all the work she did.  It was a very thick binder too!  As I went through it, I imagined her working hard on something because she believed in it...and her commitment was palpable in those pages.  This was one of the reasons she was given a leadership title with DDTTRH...because she was so committed and dedicated.  She could always be counted on...no matter where help was needed.

And Josie has done amazing work for us too.  Always willing to edit something that went out, so we wouldn't be embarrassed with our bad English.  Josie to me represents that quiet, yet always there kind-of-person who is honest about what she can do and will give where she can...and is willing to 'do anything for the boys' as she says to me.  If only there were more Josies out there.  If only there were.

And that leads me to Christian.  If it wasn't for Christian, we wouldn't have the amazing websites we do today...for both DDTTRH and DDWW.  When I first met Christian I think we argued about a post he did on Madonna.  I remember taking down his post because it was offensive and I remember telling him that we needed to be careful about how we spoke of other artists on the site.  And I never told him this, but in my mind back then I was imagining Madonna, who is likely on the committee choosing artists for induction, actually seeing that post and getting angry about it.  I was probably being silly, I know, but back then I was a different person than today...before the Epiphany happened (after my first Duran concert) and before I had formed a relationship with Anitra, Kandice, and Christian.

Next time...

• Learn more about the challenges we've faced at DDTTRH and things I learned from 'The Epiphany'. 
• The next blog will also be a set up to the important things I learned about different kinds of Duranie fans out there and the bitter-sweet experiences that came to light because of those experiences with them.

Our new logo....by NUNO

We promised you some exciting changes and happenings this June 15th weekend...here's another one....our NEW DDTTRH LOGO!!!!!

When we asked NUNO (our graphic artist friend and supporter from Portugal) to make us a logo, we told him the following..."The new logo must embody our new mission of focusing less attention on the Rock Hall and more on Duran Duran. The logo must be forward looking and visionary, with the idea that our effort is trying to bring to light the Duran Duran of NOW and the amazing contributions that Duran Duran has made to music history, fashion, art and media culture. To me the logo must say that Duran Duran is hip and classy for today and must be inviting to people who have either never heard of the band or are curious in learning about what they've been doing lately."

Further, we told him it needs to look good on a t-shirt.

I think NUNO out-did himself...check this out...I am proud to present, Duran Duran to the Rock Hall's new official logo...



And here's what it looks like on a t-shirt...pretty cool, eh?





Thanks so much for being our fans. In the next week or so, we will look for a t-shirt supplier so that we can let you have the amazing opportunity to wear it!

Cheers!

DDTTRH

Kirk, Christian, Anitra, Kandice

PS--to learn more about NUNO, please visit him at these sites:
www.studion45.blogspot.com
www.duran.com.sapo.pt
www.facebook.com/nuno45
www.twitter.com/nuno45

You can also check out an interview we did with NUNO at the beginning of 2011...
http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/12/special-new-years-interview-with-nuno.html

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall (DDTTRH), please visit our hub site at www.ddttrh.info.

Who else but us will carry on Duran's torch?

When I think of Duran Duran playing for the Olympics in 2012, I cannot help but think of the Olympic torch. That torch that is carried from the birthplace of the Olympics, Greece, to the spot where the games are to be played (this year London).

Never mind that the feats of Duran Duran since their inception 30+ years ago are of historical significance, worthy of the kind of stories that made Greek heroes and heroines worthy of myth and legend. Year in and year out this band has played for us and given us adventure, hope, self confidence, and through their music joy and happiness that has enriched our lives. In effect, they have crowned each of us who have been their fans with music worthy of the olive wreaths awarded to Olympic victors.

What better way to celebrate this band than to pass their music and legend on to future generations? I find it disturbing today that many are still 'stuck in the 80's' with Duran Duran and still many more do not even know who this amazing band is. Even worse is that when a great new album is released (like All You Need Is Now) the radio stations continue to play the same music from the same artists over and over again--like tickets to an amusement park ride whose satisfaction factor diminishes after a few rides. If you think of the epic contributions this band has given the music industry in the last 3 decades and the millions of fans that they have across the globe, one wonders what could have 'dimmed the light' that once glowed so brightly for this band? Was it the media and the critics? Was it simply changing history, people's tastes changing, and the changing landscape of music? Could it also be it be that the band just doesn't want the attention...given the harsh criticism they've had in the past and given their attitudes about receiving recognition for what they've done? The song 'All You Need Is Now' seems to hint at this attitude...'Everbody's gunnin for the VIP section...but you're better off in runnin in the other direction'.

Or could it be that a torch has been burning with this band, a light has been on, but this light has not been shared outside the tight knit Duranie community? Therefore, when this generation of faithful fans passes, so will Duran Duran. This band will be forgotten and the world will not care. Their contributions to the music industry will simply become myth and dismissed by the writers of history as unimportant and trivial. And all the critics and people that put this band down will be laughing and saying 'we told you so'.

Some may think that the band does not need the recognition, does not want the recognition and these people do not see the point of doing any kind of awareness-raising for them. What does it matter if new Duran Duran fans are being created today and their music does not reach and enlighten new ears as the generations pass? The band had its moment, and they certainly don't need the money.

Does anyone honestly think that this is what the band wants? Seriously people?



If you had put your life and soul into music as an art form (which Duran Duran clearly has done), would you not want it to be enjoyed and appreciated for years and years to come...like the great works of Picasso, Rembrandt, or Monet? Would you not be proud of your music if it could listened to by the youth of today and appreciated just as much as it was when you first began releasing? Wouldn't you want to know if your music has inspired other musicians to create music of their own? In a recent UK Heart Radio interview, when asked for a story about how the band has inspired people...Simon Le Bon said this..."When we received our Brit Awards, Justin Timberlake came onstage and presented us with the award and he said, 'The reason I am here is these guys. They inspired me to get into music.'...that is enough for me."

I can honestly say that I appreciate the band's humility and wanting to run “in the other direction from the VIP section.” And I appreciate Simon's attitude of wanting to know that his band inspired a musician to him to get into music.

Inspiration and legacy though, like a torch, cannot survive in a vacuum. It needs oxygen to burn brightly and it’s up to us, as Duran Duran fans to be that oxygen to keep the torch burning. It’s up to us as fans to help pass the torch on to future generations so that Duran Duran's music can be appreciated and inspire many more musicians for years to come.

That’s why at DDTTRH, we are doing something special in the next 2 months (before the Olympics) to invite Duran Duran fans to share their voice about this band that has meant so much to them. We hope that through this, people that search Duran Duran during the Olympics can find our site and read, listen, and see some the great things you have to say about them. Further, we are providing an outlet that is not associated with the Rock Hall to do it.

On June 15th, we will be announcing something exciting at DDTTRH...a breath of new oxygen for the global fan community that I know you will be excited about. As you know, June 15, 1981 was a special day for Duran Duran...the day they released their first album. This day will be special again in 2012 (31 years later) and as fans we can make it special. Please watch our sites on this special day to see how you can help pass the torch on for Duran Duran in a special way.

DDTTRH
Kirk, Christian, Anitra, Kandice

Picture source: http://www.happensingreece.com/olympic-flame-ceremony-2012-video/olympiaki-floga/

Inspiration and legacy...like a torch, cannot survive in a vacuum. It needs oxygen to burn brightly and it’s up to us, as Duran Duran fans to be that oxygen to keep the torch burning.