Jon McLaughlin Takes On 'Industry' At RIAA HQ
[This post is slightly off-topic for Tech Daily Dose, but it is Friday and I'm throwing caution to the wind. The text does, however, involve the Recording Industry Association of America, whose anti-piracy efforts I cover regularly, so perhaps it is slightly relevant.]
If you haven’t heard of singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin and you live in Washington, D.C., cancel your plans tonight and see him at the 9:30 Club. You can also visit his Web site to hear a few tracks from his forthcoming album.
One song, which he performed at an intimate invite-only gathering at RIAA's headquarters this afternoon, might have hit the wrong chord had he not explained its true meaning. He told us that "Industry" is an angst-filled walk down memory lane -- not a ditty criticizing major music labels, as one might infer by listening to the lyrics.
When he croons "I've been beat by an industry I've never seen," he's talking about an early encounter with a local music producer, not his current deal with Island Records. "It's not about you guys," he assured the roomful of RIAA lobbyists and assorted staffers.
On a related note, this post would not be complete without mentioning RIAA's snazzy new downtown digs. The top-floor suite is decorated like a modern, minimalist boutique hotel. A bevy of brightly colored walls are interspersed with floor-to-ceiling glass. Flowing white drapes, sleek furnishings and high-end lighting fixtures transform the group's central conference room into a stellar performance space for special guests like McLaughlin.
As I toured the facility, I couldn’t help but notice that RIAA chieftains Mitch Bainwol and Cary Sherman have some of the best views in the city from their offices and an adjoining executive lounge. Top lobbyist Mitch Glazier's space is also worth noting because you can gaze out at the tip of the Washington Monument.
Furthermore RIAA HQ has an expansive outdoor area, perfect for summertime BBQs and watching fireworks on the Fourth of July (hint, hint).
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