The Voiceover Thespian

2011-12-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

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'Twas the Night for . . . Voices For Children

2011-12-06T12:10:00.001-08:00

The country’s top voice over pros, led by Joe Cipriano, gathered in studios this week to donate their time and talent to Voices For Children. This is the first time that the people whose voices are heard every day on TV, radio and in movie theaters have had the opportunity to participate in a recording project and live performance for a cause such as this.

Among this illustrious group was Anthony Mendez, a colleague and friend. You can read more about it over at his site - http://www.anthonyvo.com/voiceover/541

My role in a recent Dorito's Commercial!

2011-11-29T11:41:00.001-08:00

I recently was cast in a Dorito's commercial as part of the annual Crash The Superbowl contest held by the Dorito's people. I am hoping for the big win!

"Grandma is sick" Spec commercial for Doritos from Jaime Puerta on Vimeo.

I think it's pretty funny. What do you think?

2011-08-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

"New York City, 1977. There’s turmoil within the Colombo Crime Family as the Boss Nicky “The Old Man” Rosselli survives a hit by an unknown assailant. An up and coming mafioso Carmine Santorelli is called upon to enforce justice on the guilty party…but did he really get his man? Join the Family as Carmine and his crew navigate the treacherous waters of the New York underworld…."

So begins "This Thing of Ours". Written and produced by Scott Spaulding, this delicious crime family saga is delivered in the gritty tradition of those wonderful old Radio Serials of yesteryear.

The show features Joe Rodriguez (that's ME!) as Carmine Santorelli as well as David Collins-Rivera as Joey “8-Ball” Scarfidi, Scott Larson as Angelo Narducci, Matthew Boudreau as Jimmy O'Connor, Jim Patton as Vincenzo Catalano and the author himself, Scott Spaulding as Stevie "Cakes" DeMeo. In addition, Ben Blankenship is our intrepid announcer.

Working on this show with such a talented writer / producer and all the other talented voice actors in this show, has been an amazing learning experience for me and I am positively thrilled at how this first episode turned out.

Why don't you give "This Thing of Ours" a listen and let me know what you think?

Faffcon 2011

2011-07-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

I signed up for Faffcon again this year. I had a great time last year and learned a lot.

Unfortunately for those of you who didn't get in early, Faffcon is already SOLD OUT!

There is however a waiting list, so if you feel like you want to go, and you really should go, then you can click here to sign up for the waiting list

Vote for Me!

2011-04-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

I submitted a read to the Neil Gaimain contest. Give it a listen and if you like it, vote for me!

Thanks!

Star Wars Clone Wars Voice actors (HD)

2011-03-18T13:27:00.000-07:00

This video is very instructive and OH MY GOD, how much do I want to be a part of this cast!!!

Voicing Fame

2011-03-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

Now here is an interesting video that brings up some interesting questions about hiring celebrities for voiceover work.

I especially loved the little segment at the end where people like MJ Lallo, Pat Fraley and James Arnold Taylor show just a few tiny examples of how truly talented REAL voiceover actors can be.

Sound Advice

2011-03-16T12:25:00.000-07:00

I met Dan Friedman of ProComm Voices at Faffcon 2 in Atlanta.

Dan hosted a number of sessions around the technical aspects of being a voice talent. His sessions were fantastic and he even gave a way a couple of copies of his new book Sound Advice - Voiceover from an Audio Engineer's Perspective.

In fact, Dan is running a little contest where you could win a free copy of Sound Advice so go check it out.

While I haven't read it yet, judging from the information he shared with us during Faffcon, I am betting it's a real hum-dinger!

Accent on Accents

2011-03-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

Want to learn now to do dialects and accents? Well here are two great resources:

Here is a North American English Dialects, Based on Pronunciation Patterns which was posted on Facebook by Kat Keesling. Thanks Kat!

And here, Julie Williams over at the Voice-Overs.com Forum is compiling a long list of resources for anybody looking to work on their accents and dialects titled Accent-uate the dialect links!. Thanks Julie and Joe The Actor!

Some useful stuff from CourVO

2011-03-08T07:39:00.001-08:00

I met Dave Courvoisier face to face at Faffcon2 and what a wonderfully funny, generous, geniune person he is.

He recently posted some fantastic resources for voice actors and small business people that I thought you might appreciate. Take a look at Dave Courvoisier's Voiceover Blog and I think you'll agree.

Faffcon2 Electric Boogaloo

2011-03-02T11:20:00.001-08:00

I had the privilege to attend Faffcon 2, Electric Boogaloo this past weekend in Atlanta. That's me right behind the Faffcon2 logo with the blue shirt and goatee!

For those of you who don't know, Faffcon is billed as the Voiceover Un-Conference. The sessions are peer conducted and somewhat unstructured since quite often, the person conducting the session may have just thought of the topic that morning!

Nevertheless, the quality of the information being shared by these incredibly talented and generous people is priceless. In fact, some of it was pure gold, hence the concept of the Golden Nugget! A Golden Nugget is some bit of information that an individual takes away from any given session, that really resonates for them and helps them move their business in a positive direction.

I came away from Faffcon 2 with a virtual treasure chest full!

For me, one of the most amazing parts of Faffcon was getting to meet, talk with, have dinner with, laugh with and yes, even sing with some of the most talented professionals in the industry. Some of these people I have known online for some time but had never met in person. What fun it was to finally meet face to face!

Here are some the wonderful people who attended:

Amy Snively - Our organizer and hostess. Thanks Amy!

Connie Terwilliger

George Washington III

Hawk Stevens

Holly Stevenson

Larissa Gallagher

Lynne Houle

Melissa eXelberth

Natalie Stanfield Thomas

Sterling Schiessler

Susan Bernard

Walter Olson

While I didn't get a chance to connect with every single person there, I can say that every person I did connect with, or share a session with, or have dinner with, or sing Karaoke with, is a person who touched my life in a positive way and who I will never forget.

Thank you all and I look forward to to seeing you at . . .

Faffcon 3, Sept 23 - 25 in Hershey PA.

See you there!

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-12-10T06:40:00.001-08:00

I had a wonderful time at the VO Mixer last week and connected with some people I'd only ever known via the VO-BB and email correspondence. It's great to actually meet these people in person and experience how warm and wonderful so many of them truly are.

I just wanted to share the talents of some of these wonderful people by inviting you to give a listen to the VO-BB rendition of the beautiful Christmas Poem, "Twas The Night Before Christmas" over at the blog of my friend Bob Souer. I think you'll really enjoy it.

Then you can take a look at a newer video version of the same poem below.

Looking Forward to the 2010 VO Mixer this weekend!

2010-12-01T11:54:00.001-08:00

I've missed this event the last 2 times it happened but I'm not missing it this time!

Over the years, I've connected with a number of wonderful, generous people online on the vo-bb and other places.

Well, I finally get to meet some of those people in person and I am really looking forward to it!

If you are one of those people, see you Saturday!

Laughter on the 23rd Floor

2010-10-19T00:01:00.001-07:00

I am playing the role of Val in the current production of Laughter on the 23rd Floor at the Sayreville Main Street Theater.

The showdates are as follows:

Fridays - October 22. 23, 29, 30 at 8:00PM

Saturdays - November 5 & 6 at 8:00PM

Sundays - October 24, 31 at 2:00 PM

Synopsis: The Show takes Place in the writer's room of the "Max Prince Show" in NYC in 1953. It is loosely based on the "Your Show of Shows", "Sid Caesar Show", whose writers were Larry Gelbart, Neil Simon, Danny Simon, Mel Brooks, Woody Allen and many, many other recognized comedy writers. Considered to be one of Neil Simon's funniest plays this production is sure to keeping you laughing.

I hope some of you can come on down.

It should be a laugh riot!

If I'd made it to the finals . . .

2010-10-08T17:25:00.001-07:00

I was in a karaoke contest recently and made the semi-finals.

Had I made it to the finals, I would have sang the following . . .

So, whaddaya think?

Recent gig for Dialogic

2010-09-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

This gig came purely from networking and is a perfect example of the benefit that you can receive when working with a Bilingual Voice Actor.

First we did the piece in English, then the same piece again, but this time in Spanish.

Here is the Dialogic IVVR piece, first, in English:

And here we have it again, but this time in Spanish:

Thanks so much to my friends at Dialogic for selecting me to work with them on this project.

Personally, I think it turned out pretty well.

What do you think?

Joe Rodriguez on Telemundo for UB.net

2010-05-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a nice little spot I did for UB.Net which is currently airing on Telemundo, late Saturday nights during the Bellator Championships programming.

20 Years of the Simpsons

2010-01-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

FOX Television started broadcasting in 1986.

In 1989, they launched a controversial television show which looked like a kids cartoon show but was aimed at adults.

Who woulda thunk that The Simpsons would still be on the air 20 years later!

According to ABC News, The Simpsons is now the longest-running scripted nighttime series on TV!

The Simpsons and thei charaters from the show have become household names all over the world.

The voice over actors who star as the main characters on the show, Dan Castellaneta (Homer), Julie Kavner (Marge), Nancy Cartwright (Bart), Yeardley Smith (Lisa), Harry Shearer (Mr. Burns), and Hank Azaria (Chief Wiggum), are probably the luckiest people in the history of voice acting!

Actually, this is probably one of the most talented and versatile group of voice actors ever assembled. Most of the cast do the voices for multiple characters on the show. Dan Castellaneta alone has done over 100 Simpsons character voices!

Being part of an animated tv show has been a dream of mine since I began exploring voice acting. My very first VO class was an animation class.

I've had the opportunity to do the occasional cartoon voice here and there, but to be on a show like the Simpsons is the ultimte dream for any voice over talent.

I mean, these guys make around 400k each, per episode! Is that a dream gig or what?!!

Envy aside, I give my congratulations to the cast of The Simpsons. You've awed and inspired me for 20 years now and I wish you 20 more years of success!

By the way, if you guys ever need a replacement or somebody to speak a little Spanish in an episode or two, give me a call will ya!

Time for New Years Resolutions

2010-01-05T09:07:00.001-08:00

I've been reading on other blogs about the kinds of resolutions people are making for 2010.

The thing about resolutions is that they have gotten a bad rap. We all know that most people make resolutions, then forget them about as quickly as they made them. It's a bad cliche at this point.

This year, I resolve to make NO RESOLUTIONS! Instead, I am going to make some GOALS for my year.

My goals are designed to make 2010 my BEST YEAR EVER.

I expect there will be modifications to those goals throughout the year and that there will be obstacles to achieving those goals throughout the year but that is all to be expected and will be dealt with as the year progresses.

One of the first things I learned about goals is that you have to keep track of them. If you don't track them, you won't achieve them. You don't need an advanced degree in astrophysics to know that's the truth.

So how does one track goals?

I found some neat tips on the Lifehacker website for some tools that may be helpful in tracking goals. You might find some of them useful. Check out the Five Best Goal-Tracking Tools on their site for some ideas.

Besides tracking goals, I also plan to use whatever tricks I can find or develop, to help make my goals a reality. I found another nice article on Lifehacker titled "Top 10 Mind Hacks for Making Your Resolutions Stick".

Some of these ideas are great. I plan to use at least some of them.

As for the rest of my goals for this year, I'll keep the specifics to myself for now but I'm sure mine are similar to yours since we pretty much all want the same things in the areas of prosperity, health and happiness.

So good luck with your resolu . . . goals for this year, and let me know how you progress along your path.

Oh, one of my other goals is to blog more regularly. Not daily, but definitely, more regularly. I think this post is a good start.

Don't you?

P.S. Just came across this great list of 10 things to do instead of making New Years resolutions.

It's gonna be a great show!

2009-10-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be in NJ and want to see a really great show, come down to Playhouse 22 in East Brunswick and checkout "Guys and Dolls"

Did you see that guy on the right? Handsome dude, huh! Anyway, the show runs October 30th through November 22nd

Playhouse 22 in the East Brunswick Cultural Arts Center
715 Cranbury Road
East Brunswick, NJ 08816

Friday and Saturday Performances @ 8:00 PM - Sunday Performances @ 3:00 PM

For tickets call: (732) 254-3939 or visit www.playhouse22.org
Regular Prices: $22
Seniors & Students: $20
Group Sales available

Talkin Funny for Money

2009-09-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

Every year my teacher and friend Pamela Lewis, holds her "Talking Funny For Money" class in NYC at Full House Studios, 123 W. 18th St, 7th floor.

This may be kinda short notice but this years class is on October 10th thru 13th. If you are interested, you can call Carole over at Full House at 917 363 9877 ASAP.

There are only 10 actors accepted for this intensive workshop. I took it a couple of years ago and I recommend it.

Sessions will be October 10-13. Sat, Sun, Mon, & Tues evenings, 7pm to 10pm.

This workshop is a lot of fun and you'll learn a bunch as well. The cost is just $299.00.

If you decide to take the class, tell Pamela that Joe Rodriguez sent ya!

I volunteered to narrate for Hearthebill.org

2009-09-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

I am proud to announce that I've volunteered as a reader at HearTheBill.org which was founded to provide an audio version of the healthcare bill currently being heatedly debated in Washington DC.

All the narrators are volunteers and together, we are providing America with the ability to better understand what it is our politicians are trying to achieve with this bill.

I hope through our efforts, we can get people to a place where they can actually support this important legislation.

Hear the Bill

2009-09-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

A bunch of my online VO friends participated in this amazing project where they recorded the entire President Obama Health Care Bill for your listening pleasure.

Now there is no excuse for not getting informed on this extremely important topic.

To hear the bill, go to http://hearthebill.org/.

A Fascinating Article about the Audiobook Biz

2009-06-25T05:40:00.000-07:00

Heidi Schooler wrote a fascinating article over at Backstage.com where she interviews the amazing Mr. Pat Fraley and Marc Cashman about the Audiobook Biz.

It's called (Audio) Book Smart. It's an interesting read and I highly recommend you pop over and give it the once over.

A Whopper of a Voiceover Resource Directory

2009-06-16T23:36:00.000-07:00

I came across this list from one of my subscriptions, can't remember which but in any case, here is a WHOPPER of a voiceover resource directory which includes over 200 sites that list voiceover casting opportunities. OVER 200!!

You can check out Taji's Voice Over Directory by clicking here.

It is ALIVE!!!

2009-06-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

Scott Brick and the Audio Publishers Association contest is officially live! They are looking for the next great audiobook narrator. Could it be YOU??

For more info, visit Scott's site.

Good luck!

To Shave . . . or not to shave. THAT is the question!

2009-06-02T12:06:00.001-07:00

I've had a goatee for about 15 - 20 years but recently, due to various theatrical productions I've been in, I've changed my facial hair styles from goatee to full beard and then to clean-shaven. Now that I'm between shows, I am wondering which style to keep? So what do you think? Should I go with A, B or C?

Winners of the 2009 Audie Awards Announced

2009-06-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

Without further ado, the winners of the 2009 Audies:

Audiobook of the Year was won by Neil Gaiman, writer and narrator of "The Graveyard Book"; HarperChildren's Audio.

Distinguished Achievement in Production was won by Live & Listen Audio for "Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady" by L.A. Meyer, narrated by Katherine Kellgren.

Solo Narration - Male was won by narrator John Lee for his work on "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas; Blackstone Audio.

Solo Narration - Female was won by narrator Katherine Kellgren for her work on "Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady", a novel by L.A. Meyer; Listen and Live Audio.

Narration by the Author was won by David Sedaris for "When You Are Engulfed in Flames"; Hachette Audio.

Multi-Voiced Performance was won by "Mudbound" by Hillary Jordan, read by Kate Forbes, Joey Collins, Peter Jay Fernandez, Ezra Knight, Brenda Pressley, and Tom Stechschulte; Recorded Books.

Special Achievement Awards were won by Michael Snodgrass and Eileen Hutton of Brilliance Audio.

Judges Award - Politics was won by "Hot, Flat, and Crowded" by Thomas Friedman, read by Oliver Wyman; Macmillan Audio.

Humor was won by "The Learners" by Chip Kidd, read by actor Bronson Pinchot; Blackstone Audio.

Spanish Language was won by "Por in Dia Mas/For One More Day" by Mitch Albom; read by Jose Manuel Vieira; FonoLibro, Inc.

Teens was won by "Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady" by L.A. Meyer, read by Katherine Kellgren; Listen & Live Audio.

Children's Titles Ages 8 to 12 was won by "The Graveyard Book", written and narrated by Neil Gaiman; HarperChildren's Audio.

Children's Titles Ages up to 8 was won by "James Herriot's Treasury for Children"; James Herriot, read by Jim Dale; Macmillan Audio.

Original Work was won by "Louis Vuitton Soundwalk: Beijing" by Stephan Crasneanscki, narrated by Gong Li; Louis Vuitton.

Audio Drama was won by "The Odyssey" by Homer, narrated by Tim McInnerny, Amanda Redman and a full cast; BBC Audiobooks America.

Audiobook Adaptation was won by "English Majors: A Comedy Collection For The Highly Literate" written/read by Garrison Keillor and cast, with special guests Billy Collins, Roy Blount Jr., Robert Bly, Donald Hall, Allen Ginsberg, and Calvin Trillin; HighBridge.

Package Design was won by "Founding Fathers", written by Arthur M. Schlesinger, read by Ira Claffey and Richard Rohan with package design by Margo Goody; Macmillan Audio.

Classic was won by "Great Expectations", written by Charles Dickens, read by British narrator Simon Vance; Tantor Audio.

Romance was won by "The Dark Highlander", written by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante; Brilliance Audio.

Thriller / Suspense was won by "Child 44", written by Tom Rob Smith, read by narrator Dennis Boutsikaris; Hachette Audio.

Science Fiction / Fantasy was won by "Calculating God", a book by Robert J. Sawyer, read by Jonathan Davis; Audible, Inc.

Mystery was won by "Voice of The Violin", authored by Andrea Camilleri, read by narrator Grover Gardner; Blackstone Audio.

Short Stories / Collections was won by "Armageddon in Retrospect" by Kurt Vonnegut; intro read by Mark Vonnegut; read by Rip Torn; Penguin Audio.

Literary Fiction was won by "Elmer Gantry", a novel by Sinclair Lewis, read by narrator Anthony Heald; Blackstone Audio.

Inspirational / Faith-based Fiction was won by "Prague Counterpoint", written by Bodie and Brock Thoene; read by Sean Barrett; FamilyAudioLibrary.com.

Fiction Audie was a tie! This award was won by "The Duma Key", written by Stephen King, read by John Slatter; Simon and Schuster Audio. This award was also won by "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows, read by Paul Boehmer, Susan Duerden, Rosalyn Landor, John Lee, and Juliet Mills; Books on Tape.

Personal Development was won by "You Staying Young" by Michael F. Roizen and Mehmet C. Oz, read by Johnny Heller, Recorded Books.

Inspirational / Faith-based Non-Fiction was won by "The Word of Promise: Next Generation New Testament" read by Sean Astin and cast; Thomas Nelson Inc.

Business / Educational was won by "The Little Red Book of Selling" written and narrated by Jeffrey Gitomer; Simon & Schuster Audio.

History was won by "Gandhi and Churchill" by Arthur Herman, narrated by John Curless; Recorded Books.

Biography / Memoir was won by "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch with Jeffrey Zaslow, narrated by Erik Singer; Hyperion Audiobooks.

Non-Fiction was won by "Hot, Flat, and Crowded", by Thomas Friedman, narrated by Oliver Wyman; Macmillan Audio.

The Next Great Audiobook Narrator Contest!

2009-05-21T14:29:00.001-07:00

Scott Brick and the Audio Publishers Association have teamed up to find the next great audiobook narrator in their "Share The Experience" contest! The winner will get their first professional audiobook narrating gig!

Interested? Thought so. Read all about it here:
http://www.scottbrickpresents.com/wordpress/blog/

and check out the contest page right here:
http://www.scottbrickpresents.com/wordpress/contest-share-the-experience-finding-the-audiobook-industrys-newest-narrator/

Please help support Relay For Life®

2009-05-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

This year, hundreds of thousands of people will hear the words "You have cancer", and there's a good chance that some of them will be people we know and love. That's why I have chosen to fight back against cancer by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. I want to invite you to join me in the fight against cancer by making a donation in support of my efforts.

Please click here to visit the Relay For Life® web page for the Mandela Mavericks, where you can make an online contribution. Every amount, no matter how small, makes a difference and provides hope. You can also sign up to join my team and learn more about Relay and how it's changing lives.

Relay For Life® brings more than 3.5 million people from across the country together each year to Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, Remember loved ones lost, and Fight Back against a disease that takes too much. This fun-filled, overnight event empowers everyone to help fight cancer by raising money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society's lifesaving mission.

Thank you in advance for your support!

I'm on iTunes!

2009-05-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

I am proud to be the narrator of "It's Just Begun: The Epic Journey of Dj Disco Wiz, Hip Hop's First Latino DJ!" by by Ivan Sanchez (Author), Luis (DJ Disco Wiz) Cedeño (Author), available via iTunes and also available in hardcover on Amazon.com!

Pretty cool huh!

Free Harlan Hogan seminar open for registration!

2009-03-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

Harlan Hogan and Jeffrey P. Fisher, authors of "The Voice Actor's Guide to Home Recording" and several other books on voiceover work and voice recording, are conducting a free teleseminar called, "How To Record Voiceovers At Home Or On The Road,"

You'll find all the information at:

http://www.RecordVoiceovers.com

What is a voiceover?

2009-03-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Apple corporation is releasing an iPod shuffle that will announce song titles between each recording. It is supposed to be able to announce the song in numerous languages. This story came out a few recently and people in the voiceover community felt an opportunity had arisen to provide those announcements.

But wait!

It turns out that the announcements are going to be a synthetic voice!

So what does that mean for us in the voiceover community? Are robots and computers going to take over the industry?

I be a monkeys uncle if a machine can ever be what a true voiceover actor can be. In an industry where the watchword is "no announcer" because the want that "human touch", how can a machine possibly deliver?

And although they are using the term "voiceover" for this synthetic speech on the new iPod, a voiceover will always mean a human being, in front of a microphone, acting his or her butt off for their client.

What do you think?

Mistakes that could prevent you from getting hired

2009-03-12T00:01:00.001-07:00

David Goldberg from Edge Studios in NYC, wrote a nice article titled "Why Many Voice Talent Aren't Hired ... Are You Making These Mistakes, Too?"

In the article, he describes the kinds of blunders some voice actors commit which can prevent them from ever getting cast again. At least at Edge Studios.

Some of these are common sense and some of them are just plain dumb. Give it a read and let me know what you think.

Creating an Audiobook Demo

2009-02-25T20:11:00.001-08:00

Scott Brick, probably the most famous audiobook narrator around today, talks about How To Create A Demo
That Shows Off Your Narration Skills, over at Voice-Over Xtra.

If audiobook narration is an area of interest for you, then this article is a must read.

Learning from the Best - Part 2

2009-02-19T07:26:00.000-08:00

In the world of Voice Acting, there is arguably nothing more challenging than audiobooks. To be an Audiobook Narrator, you not only need mountains of talent, but enormous endurance as well.

Two of the worlds top Audiobook narrators, Scott Brick and Grover Gardner, share their insights and experience in an interesting article over at Voice Over Xtra. Anybody who is interested in learning about how to get into the Audiobook genre can learn something from these two.

Also, don't miss the article Scott Brick wrote on his blog about breaking into audiobook narration. It's fantastic!

I also found a very nice interview with Scott Brick over at Publishers Weekly that is quite interesting as well. He shares some valuable insights on he he prepares for an audiobook narration in this article.

Learning from the Best

2009-02-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

Bob Bergen and Pat Fraley, arguably two of the best Cartoon / Character voiceover coaches in the world, were intereviewed recently on Backstage Magazine. Luckily, you don't have to be a subscriber to get the benefit of their knowledge. Just click here to read the article. Enjoy!

Ten Mile River

2009-02-04T15:46:00.001-08:00

A while back I wrote about my audiobook experience working at Audible.com on Ten Mile River, a first book by author Paul Griffin. Well, I am proud to announce that the book has been published and is now available on Audible.com. If you'd like to listen to a sample, visit the site and click on the sample button.

One of my Female Colleagues Caryn Clark

2009-01-29T19:31:00.000-08:00

I was thinking the other day about branding for voiceovers and I thought about Caryn Clark. She has what I consider a very cool brand.

The Hip Chick Voice! Now why couldn't I think of something like that.

There are several other VOs who really have it together as far as branding but that cute little chick on Caryn's site just makes me smile.

I'm going to take a look at some other sites for voice actors who I think have nailed the branding thing. By examining their sites, perhaps we can learn something about what voice actor branding is all about.

That's it for now. Take care.

A Day in the Life of a SAG Voice Actor

2008-12-10T10:39:00.001-08:00

I came across this video on the great Dave Houston's Facebook page and thought I'd share. I love these kinds of videos.

http://www.sag.org/day-life-a-voice-actor

Hope you enjoy it.

Farewell to Jekyll & Hyde

2008-11-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

Today's show is the final performance of Jekyll & Hyde. It seems like only yesterday that I auditioned and now, a scant 3 weeks after our opening night, the show closes.

It has been an amazing experience. I've met and worked with some of the most wonderfully talented people I've ever known and I hope to keep at least some of these people in my circle of friends permanently.

It is with mixed emotion that I prepare for this final performance. I don't want it to end, but alas, in community theater, dems da rules.

Jekyll & Hyde Opening Weekend

2008-11-09T15:30:00.000-08:00

We started rehearsals in August. It was a long, arduous process for many. For me, not so much since I get killed at the end of the first act. I pretty much sit out the second act except to help with scene changes, costume changes and such. There is one additional scene where I make an appearance as a ghost, but that's pretty much it for me.

This weekend, the show opened. The audiences so far have had very, very favorable comments about how much they enjoyed the show. Some of the people in this show are so talented, it's amazing they aren't already working on Broadway.

We've got two more weekends to go. If any of you are in or near NJ, come down and see it. Stay after the show and say hello.

For more information check out Jekyll & Hyde at the Villager's Theater.

2008-10-13T20:33:00.001-07:00

This Friday 10/17/2008, Rumba Con Son, the New Jersey Salsa Band is going to rock the house at The hottest new spot in Trenton New Jersey, La Cabaña Lounge & Grill (formerly the Anchor Bar and Grill) at 931 New York Ave. Trenton, NJ 08638.

The show starts at 10:00 PM so come on down, you'll have a blast!

Honoring commitments

2008-10-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've gotten requests for paid work. My friends at EBRU TV need me to come in and do some ADR work. My friends at Audible have another audiobook for me.

Normally these would be good things. Great things!

So what's the problem? I am doing Jekyll and Hyde at the Villager's Playhouse in Somerset NJ. Community theater. FREE work.

So I am turning away paid work because I committed to doing this show for free and as we get closer to the opening date, the rehearsal schedule is becoming more and more of a bear. But I am honoring my commitments.

The truth is that I will still do the paid work. I have to because I need the dough. It's just that it's becoming uglier and uglier trying to schedule everything without missing J&H rehearsals and I don't want to commit to the paid work unless I know I can honor the commitment.

Make no mistake, I will commit to it, and I will honor my commitment because my first commitment is to myself and my family. My voiceover business has become a not so insignificant part of my income now and I am committed to building that business and taking it to the next level.

I fully intend to honor that commitment.

I Love Repeat Business - Part Deux

2008-10-11T21:24:00.001-07:00

So the lovely, wonderful, spectacularly intelligent folks over at Audible.com have called to offer me another audiobook to read. I guess they liked the results from that first one.

To say that I am thrilled is an understatement.

When I got into this voiceover game, I had no idea where it would lead. I originally wanted to do cartoons and character work. I still do. Then I figured since I am bilingual, I'd maybe try my hand . . . er . . . mouth, at some Spanish stuff. Now I have entered the Audiobook genre. Being asked to do a second one is for me, a huge success. I am working in a field that Pat Fraley calls the Shakespeare of the voiceover industry.

Any way you slice it, that's just plain cool man.

Frankly, I've not been the most focused business person in this game and I guess my slow progress is evidence of that, but though slow, my progress has been pretty steady. So now, between the Audiobooks and Spanish Language stuff, I've gotten two of my highest paying gigs to date.

I don't want to jump the gun here, but I think I might actually have some talent for this stuff after all.

Oh, and let's not forget, both of those gigs where from repeat business.

So let me say it once again . . . I really, really love repeat business.

Don't you just love repeat business?

2008-10-05T01:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I got my first repeat client and all I can say is God please send me more of those!

The first time this client hired me, it was for a very small job. Not a lot of pay but it was a new client so I did the job to the best of my ability. It involved some translation work and voicing the job in Spanish.

Everything cool.

So the client comes back recently and says he's got a job but my prices are too high. I say hey, if your working within a budget, let me know and I'll do my best to accommodate you.

I don't hear from the client for a couple of weeks. Then he comes back to me and says not only does he want me but he needs a second voice for the job as well, since it's an e-Learning piece with two guys.

So I recommended my friend and colleague, Jean-Marc Berne who I know to be a talented voice actor, singer and musician. My client likes us both and books us for the gig.

The only issue? The budget.

My client tells us he's got a certain amount budgeted for the job and after Jean-Marc and I look at it, we figure this job is worth more than the quote. So we go back to the client and explain that due to the complexity of the job, and so forth, we felt it was worth more. The client agrees with us but his client has to approve the new budget.

So my client goes to his client and makes our proposal. He then comes back to us and says not only did we book the job, we booked it for more than we'd asked! I an can tell you right now that this gig is paying many times what that first one did.

So Jean-Marc and I did our respective parts in our respective studios and delivered the files to the client. I haven't heard anything from the client so I guess their happy with the job.

I just love repeat business.

My Audiobook Adventure - Day 2 Continued

2008-09-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been almost three weeks since I finished that audiobook and I neglected to come here and finish the story. My apologies to all my loyal reader out there, yes all one of you, who've been waiting to learn about my exploits.

So day 3 began right where we left off on day two. Since I was already an old pro at this audiobook thing, my engineer and I dispensed with the niceties and went right to work. Time is money in the audiobook game and we weren't about to waste any.

From the minute I started reading, I knew that today was different. Yesterday I'd felt nervous, hesitant. Especially during that first chapter and probably into the second. Today, I started reading and just got right into the flow. It felt good and according to my engineer, it sounded good. We worked through the morning and when it got to lunch time, I knew that we'd be finished early.

Originally, I'd been booked for 3 days of work on this book. I knew that today, my second day, would see the end of this particular job.

When we got back from lunch, we once again, jumped right into it. The story moved along to it's inevitable conclusion at about 2:00 pm. A day and a couple of hours ahead of schedule. I'd completed my first audiobook!

Well, almost . . .

My engineer had suggested that If I liked, I could go back and re-read the first chapter just because by the end I'd really gotten into a good flow which probably didn't exist in the beginning, so we did just that. Although he'd told me that he'd listened back to the first chapter and felt it was pretty consistent with the later stuff, after I re-recorded the first chapter, he agreed that it was much better than the first time through.

So according to my contract, they can call me in for up to 2 additional pick up sessions. I have not yet been called about any pick ups so we'll see how that goes.

In my opinion, the story I read was a good one. It had many interesting characters in it including two young urban boys, an Irishman, a Russian gentleman, some Noo Yawkizz (New Yorkers), and various other men, women and children. It was quite an interesting challenge for my acting ability and I can only hope that I did it justice. My only comment is that I wanted there to be more. The book was not a very long one and the stories of the characters involved seemed unresolved to me. I want to learn more about these people. I guess I grew to like them while reading their story and that affection wants me to learn more about them. What happens next.

Also, if there are sequels to this book or if it becomes a serial novel, I'd love to keep doing the audiobooks for it since I've gotten to know these guys and appreciate them.

Also, I can use the moolah!

I recently read an interesting article which I learned about from my friend Karen Commins who I follow on Twitter. It was about the interesting choices that audiobook publishers make during casting and the sometimes less than stellar results.

I hope that the good people at Audible.com don't feel they made a bad call when they cast me for this book and I really hope that the listeners of this piece enjoy it as much as I enjoyed reading it.

I look forward to working with my friends at Audible.com again, very very soon.

My Audiobook Adventure - Day 2

2008-09-04T05:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry I didn't get to post last night about my day. It was just so busy yesterday.

I spent pretty much all day at Audible.com reading the book I was cast for. I left at 4:00 or so which left me about two hours to run home, feed my dogs, let them out then dash to a rehearsal for Jekyll & Hyde.

I feel like SUCH an actor!

One cool thing is I saw Roscoe Ormon, the actor who plays Gordon on Sesame street in the lunch room at Audible. Apparently he was there reading a book as well. I would have loved to chat with him for a while but he was having his lunch, talking on the phone, and on his laptop at at once. I didn't want to disturb an obviously busy guy! Perhaps I'll see him today and he's not too busy, we can chat for a bit.

The response to my performance was very positive yesterday. My engineer / director, Charles, kept telling me what a great job I was doing. We got through over 100+ pages yesterday. Charles commended me on my stamina, and believe me reading audiobooks does require stamina. You've got to be "on" for the entire session unlike a commercial where you've only go to be on during the 30 or so seconds it take to do each take. Charles told me that most first timers usually don't get past page 70 or so their first day.

I truly appreciated his feedback and of course, I like positive feedback better than criticism though if I am sucking the big one, I really want to know about that too!

Anyway, I gotta run for day 2.

More later!

My Audiobook Adventure - Day 1

2008-09-03T05:28:00.001-07:00

It's 8:30 a.m. and I'm about ready to walk out the door and head to the Audible offices in Newark NJ. I wish they had offices in a cooler town but that's life.

I received a contract from them over the weekend stating the terms and conditions of my relationship with them and the rate we'd negotiated for this first book. It's a non-union gig so the money's not so great, but it's a beginning and I am excited about the opportunity.

This is an area of voiceover that I'd not explored previously. Well, that's not completely true. I did audition at Audible about 3 years ago or so when I first started pursuing the VO dream, but I didn't get much of a response. 3 years of experience later has apparently made a difference.

So I'm off for day 1. I'll let you know how it turns out later this evening.

Wish me luck!

The end of an era . . .

2008-09-01T22:08:00.001-07:00

The following report was posted on voiceoveruniverse.com

Rick

It is very hard to write these words. My friend, Don LaFontaine, the husband of a most beautiful wife, Nita and the father of three beautiful girls, passed away today at the age of 68. In a quite sudden reversal of the progress he had been making the last few days, Don took ill again and passed away at around 1:50PM this afternoon (9/1/08). Out of respect for Don’s family, more details will be given at a later time. Nita is a wonderful mother and she is being very strong for her children at this moment. You would be proud of her. We need to give her and her family some time to absorb their loss. As for me, thank you very much. There have been so many spiritual warriors who have given everything they have for my best friend. I will miss him very much.

More details to follow...

Paul Pape

Although I'd never had the honor of meeting him in person, Don LaFontaine has had an undeniable influence on me and just about everyone in the voiceover industry. He was a pioneer in the industry and has left an indelible mark.

His body of work is astounding. Over his career, Don LaFontaine recorded nearly 5,000 movie trailers and literally HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of commercials.

Anyone who currently works or wants to work in the Movie Trailer area of the voiceover industry owes a debt of gratitude to this incredible human being.

The interviews that I've heard and the personal anecdotes that I've read, left me with the impression of a warm and generous man of immense talent. He will be forever remembered.

My prayers go out to Mr. LaFontaine's Wife and family in this time of loss and sadness.

Mr. LaFontaine, thank you for blazing the trail that so many of us have chosen to follow.

Rest in peace.

An update on The Don

2008-08-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

Just received some encouraging news from the good people over at VoiceoverUniverse.com. Happy Birthday Don and get well soon!

A message to all members of voiceover universe presents...

By the way, Today is Don's Bday:) 8/26 Happy Birthday, Don!

OFFICIAL UPDATES FROM DON'S BEST FRIEND OF OVER 30 yrs, Paul Pape

August 26, 2008 - UPDATE 5:24 PM PST (8:24 PM EST)

To all of Don's friends in the Voice-over Community:

Don's condition continues to stabilize. There is significant progress
and while he has quite a ways to go yet, there is every reason to keep
the faith. Many of you have expressed your feelings and chosen to
respect the privacy that Don and his family need right now. One could
ask no more of you. This show of respect is deeply appreciated by
those closest to the situation. Don and I often remark that we are
more brothers at this point than just best friends. Yet, as your
outpouring of support shows, Don has many "best friends." He is
clearly important to us all .

Don's wife, Nita, read every single comment that has been posted and
was truly touched and strengthened by your words and prayers. Please
see Nita's response below. As for me, please accept a simple "thanks"
for being there for my ol' pal.

Sincerely,

Paul Pape

The King is in Critical

2008-08-26T00:32:00.001-07:00

My voiceover hero, Don LaFontaine, the undisputed king of Movie Trailers and Promos is in critical condition. First reported by Rick Party on VoiceoverUniverse, here is a missive from The Don's beloved wife Nita.

Dear friends and family,

I need you help and I'm reaching out to all of you. My wonderful husband is in critical condition at Cedar Sinai hospital; a blood clot is lodged in his lung and he is fighting for his life. This happened on Saturday after I'd taken him in for shortness of breath on Friday. He was doing very well and I left him talking and being funny on Friday evening. Without all the details, I got a call on Saturday morning as I was heading there to visit. There has been some lovely improvement yesterday but he is very sick right now. We need your concentrated prayers! Have your churches synagogues, temples send out prayers for Don's healing and wellness. Light a candle, chant, whatever you do to send that loving energy and light to him, I would appreciate. And save a little for the girls and me. We have had small miracles already and if we all shout up to God collectively, I know how powerful that can be. He is fighting and we all are fighting with him. He is strong and is a warrior so I thank you in advance for your prayers, good wishes and kindness on behalf of my family.

With a hopeful heart,

Nita and family

I hope you will join me in sending all good vibes and prayers to Don, Nita and their family in this time of need. Don, I pray you have a complete and speedy recovery.

2008-08-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

Pamela Lewis was my very first voiceover teacher and still holds a special place in my heart. Thanks to Liz DeNesnera for posting a link to this interview with Pamela on The VO-BB, one of my favorite places on the internet although I haven't been hanging around there much lately, I still love the place and it's people.

Booked my first Book . . . audiobook that is.

2008-08-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

I just booked my first audio book based on my audition at Audible.com last week. The producer called me and left a message on my cell phone. He said he definitely wants me to do the book (Yay!)and I should call so and so to schedule the sessions. He also said (these are his words) that he thinks I am a very good actor and he wants to "keep me around". Needless to say, I am thrilled about the compliment and the job!

So I called So and so and have booked my sessions for the first week in September right after the holiday weekend.

I've gone through the book and I enjoyed it very much. It's a first novel and I believe it is quite good. My only comment is it left me wanting more. I hope the author writes some sequels because I'd love to know more about how these peoples lives turn out. Besides, I can use the work!

I can't reveal the title just yet due to the fact that I don't know what the rules are regarding confidentiality and such, but the book has many interesting characters. There are several varieties of Hispanic / Urban type people, an Irish guy, some mafia-type thugs and various other people, who should be quite interesting to portray. Frankly, I can't wait!

This proves beyond the shadow of a doubt, the power of persistence and the power of networking.

The persistence part has to do with the fact that I almost gave up the ghost on this line of work several times during the past 3 years. I was this close to calling it quites any number of times, but something kept driving me onward. Now, I'm so glad I didn't quit. Finally, my efforts are beginning to pay off and it feels wonderful to start building some forward momentum.

The networking part comes in the form of my friend and sometimes Engineer, Tony Salerno who recommended that I be called in for an audition. Tony my brother from another mother, thank you so much for recommending me to your people at Audible. I truly appreciate it and I hope to have a long and fruitful relationship with them.

I hope this inspires any of you out there who might be thinking of quitting.

Don't! You'll regret it if you do.

I leave you with one of my very favorite quotes on the subject of persistence . . .

"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The slogan press on has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race. No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave."

-- (John) Calvin Coolidge

Taking the good with the bad.

2008-08-18T17:56:00.000-07:00

This past week has been great in many ways and terrible in others.

On the plus side:

I went to an audition at Audible.com and got a great response. The director said he thought my acting was great and he literally offered me an audiobook to narrate on the spot. That was unexpected and wonderful.

I booked several hours of ADR work at my favorite client, EBRU TV where I learned that I am very popular in Turkey. People have my voice on their DVDs! That was cool to learn. Now if I can get them to pay union rates!

On the terrible side:

I had to say goodbye to my beautiful, faithful little companion of over a dozen years this week. There's a huge hole in my heart at his loss and I can't even think of him without breaking down. R.I.P. My Little Gizmo, I loved you and I miss you something terrible.

The Incredible Power of Doing . . . Something!

2008-08-04T19:57:00.000-07:00

I hadn't been booking much VO for a while so I decided that I'd better start directing more energy towards my voiceover career.

As a member of Voices.com, I receive audition notices daily but I hardly ever actually audition. I'm not sure why, I just didn't. I guess maybe I figured I'd be rejected anyway, so what was the point? Typical stinkin thinkin.

Well after thinking about it some more and remembering some of the motivational stuff from Zig Ziglar that I used to listen to for hours on end, I finally decided that if I am going to get anywhere in this business, I better start doing something about it, and I mean now.

So I started submitting auditions to Voices.com daily. Small jobs, big jobs, English jobs, Spanish jobs, just auditioning as much as I could. I auditioned for a whole bunch of stuff, and the result? Nothing, nada, zip, zilch.

At least not from Voices.com.

But all of a sudden, things have started to come to me from several other directions!

I got a nice Spanish VO job out of the blue, I got an audition for a McDonald's piece, which I didn't get, but hey, it's McDonald's! I booked 4 hours of ADR work last week and another 4 hours this Friday, I got an audition at Audible.com from an engineer friend and another engineer friend just booked me for Anime job.

I get to be a toon again! WOOT ... WOOOOOT!

I truly believe in the following two quotes.

"I have learned, that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." - Henry David Thoreau

"Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Moving in the direction of your dreams. What a wonderful concept. and by doing so, we activate the "Genius, power and magic", what wonderful forces to have on ones side.

Do you believe in Magic? I do! Oh yes baby. I'm counting on it.

It's nice to be nice

2008-08-01T19:22:00.001-07:00

I have a friend who is a sound engineer and voice actor. I've been working with him for quite some time now at one of my clients studios. Anyway, apparently he got a gig at Audible.com and recommended me for an audition!

WOOT!

Man oh man, it's nice to be nice and it's even nicer to have friends.
Thank you Mr. Anthony Salerno, you have my gratitude!

Bob Souer Interview - Part 4

2008-07-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

Just a quick one to let you guys know that part 4 of the Bob Souer interview is now available. Bob is a great guy and a great talent and his insights are invaluable. Enjoy!

Out of The Blue

2008-07-30T20:34:00.001-07:00

So I got a call today out of the blue about a Spanish VO job, :60 second spot for some recording facility somewhere. They said their client loved my voice and could I do the job? Uh . . .HELLSYEAH!

Great, they say. How much for the job, it's non-broadcast and will be used as a promo piece for the companies clients only.

So we negotiate a bit, arrive at what I believe is a fair price and voila, twenty minutes later there is money in my Paypal account!

Man, don't you just love the blue sometimes!

Bob Souer featured on Voice Over Xtra!

2008-07-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, I just came across a 2-part interview with Bob Souer. The general consensus throughout the voiceover community is that Bob Souer is one of the nicest, most generous people you'll ever meet. I haven't had the pleasure of meeting him in person yet but I look forward to that day. Not only is he a heck of a nice guy but he is also an amazing voice talent with 25 years of experience under his belt. He shares a small portion of his vast wisdom with us in this fascinating two-part interview. Here are the links, enjoy!

Bob Souer Interview Part 1
Bob Souer Interview Part 2

Stay tuned for part 3, coming soon!

Se Habla Espanol

2008-07-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

I am finally a professional bilingual voice actor. I've been auditioning for Spanish language voice work for a while and although I've gotten close a few times, I'd never actually been paid for speaking Spanish. Well I finally got a paying gig as un locutor en espanol!

Interestingly, it was for a clinical study for a product to help with low testosterone levels in men. Hmm . . ., I wonder what the universe is trying to tell me.

Anyhoo, now I can truthfully say that I am a professional bilingual voice actor!

A Successful Call-Back!

2008-07-16T23:57:00.001-07:00

Last time, I talked about an audition I went on for an upcoming production of Jekyll & Hyde. Well I got a call-back!

I arrived about 7:30 today and signed in. I sat around and waited, making small talk with the other nervous actors there. As my nerves started kicking in and I began pacing around. I looked around for other guys in my age category and surreptitiously tried to see what sides they were reading. Where any of them competing with me for the role of the Bishop? I couldn't really tell. It was a nerve-wracking 10 minutes.

Then they started calling people into the theater by role. "Lucy's! Any Lucy's out here? They want you inside". "OK, Emmas, you, your an Emma? OK, go inside now"

And on it went. I sat and waited, paced and waited, fretted and waited.

In the meantime, the musical director came out, set up a piano and started going over musical sides by roles as well. First this group, then that one. I asked about my role. "Any music for The Bishop?" I asked. "Oh, uh . . . wait a second, I'll be right back" and off she went.

My nerves started affecting my stomach, so I went to the bathroom, sat on a throne and rehearsed the 3 lines in the acting sides I'd been given. As I am sitting there, I hear the door open and three people chatting excitedly enter the bathroom only the voices are . . . female! Holy crap, I went into the wrong bathroom!

You ever go out in your backyard and see a rabbit? When they spot you, they stop and stay very, very still, trying their damnedest to become invisible. When I heard those three girls enter the bathroom, one of them in the stall next to mine, I immediately did the best rabbit act I could. I froze solid and remained silent and still. Thankfully, the rabbit tactic worked and they didn't notice me. After a short while, which to me seemed an eternity, they left, all giggles and enthusiasm. Needless to say, I then employed rabbit tactic #2 - I bolted!

Back in the waiting area, I tried to calm down and look professional. I'd survived the bathroom faux pas and now all I had to do was read my 3 lines and sing the song that I'd not yet received any music for. Piece of cake!

As I sat there, I watched the other actors. Many of them had apparently worked together on other shows so there was a quite a bit of gossip and camaraderie going on. I felt a little excluded since this would be my first real show. Oh, I did a show about two years ago called "Little Shop of Horrors", but that was mostly just my voice. I played the voice of the plant. If I land the role of the Bishop in this show, I stand a pretty good chance of actually getting on stage!

So I set myself to the task of waiting again. The musical director was at this point working out a four part harmony with about eight people who I assume had already been cast. The director comes out of the theater and wants to hear how the harmony practice is going. He's listening carefully to all the singers then suddenly he points at me and says "You're in this piece too you know".

SAY WHAT! "She never told me" I spluttered, "I didn't know, I've been waiting for her to get to me" and so on. The director smiles and says "I know, I know. It's fine"

After listening to the results of the harmony practice, the director looks around the waiting area. He points at certain people around the room and says "OK, you're done, and you and let's see . . ." He then turns to me and says "and you, you're done for tonight." He turns away and goes off to smoke a cigarette. I stand there for a moment with what I can only imagine to be a most bewildered expression on my face.

Well I was somewhat confused to say the least. After all, I hadn't read my 3 lines yet nor sang my as yet to be located musical piece yet. How can I be done?

So I stood there looking around rather stupidly and then I notice the director outside the glass doors, smoking his cigarette and pointing in my general direction. Several people around me are pointing at their chests mouthing "me? . . . who me?". Suddenly I realize it's me he's pointing at, so I go outside to see if perhaps he wants me to speak or sing or something, after all.

"I told you that you were done for the night because I've already decided to cast you . . . you're my Bishop". I stared at him uncomprehendingly. "When you came in the other day and sang, I was so thrilled that I decided right then" he said. "Oh, uh . . . thank you" as the realization slowly dawned on me, "Thank you so much!" I replied. Holy cow, I've been cast! I've just had my first successful call-back! And to think, all I'd had to do was wait, and wait, and wait a bit more. That wasn't so tough! What have I been so afraid of all these years?

So I have been cast in the role of The Bishop in the upcoming production of the The Villagers Theater production of Jekyll and Hyde. The show dates are November 7 - 23, 2008 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. I hope if you are in the area, you'll come by and see the show.

I get killed at the end of the first act! Hoo haaaa!

Non-VO Acting Stuff

2008-07-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

So I decided on a lark to go and audition for a regional production of "Jekyll and Hyde" today. I saw the audition notice earlier in the week and toyed with the idea but I never really prepared anything for an audition. I missed yesterdays auditions and today was the last day of auditions and they started at 7:30. At around 7:50 I figured what the hell, I'll do it for the experience.

When I arrived, all these beautiful young people where sitting around limbering up for the dance part of the audition, the part that I was blissfully unaware of. Had I known there was a dance audition, I'd probably have stayed home. Other people where reviewing sheet music and again, I thought to myself, what am I doing here? I don't have any sheet music, I don't have any dance shoes, I'm not ready for this!

So they call everyone in for the dance part of the audition. Twenty four poor souls learning a routine that I'm certain would be cake for a professionally trained dancer but which for us double-left-footed types, was tantamount to a space walk. I got in line with the rest and bravely turned left when everyone else turned right and I shuffled when I should have kicked, all the while maintaining an attitude of joyous good fun. And it was good fun. How could I not laugh at my own glaringly untrained dancing. At any rate, we all got through the dance part and were asked to wait outside.

They called us in in groups of 3 or 4. A couple of times I could hear angelic voices sailing through theater doors, both male and female. There was some real, heavy duty talent in there. At last, came my turn along with two lovely young ladies with voices of such beauty that they could make you cry. Finally the musical director called my name.

"Hi Joe, what are you going to do for us today?" said he, "well I have to apologize because I just saw the audition notice today and I didn't have time to prepare anything." says I. "Well, what do you know?" said he. "I was going to try 'I've gotta be me'" I said, at which he responded to the pianist, "what do you know?" Apparently the musical director was not a big Sammy Davis Jr. fan. The Pianist holds up a fake book of Broadway show tunes and hands it to me. I peer into the book whose type is of the microscopic variety and me, having left my reading glasses at home, merely pretended to peruse the selections.

After auditioning another two singers, the musical director turns back to me and says "so, how we doing Joe?" "I'd be doing much better if I had my reading glasses" I replied, at which the director and various other theatrical flunkies chuckled heartily. "Well, do you know any songs? I just want to hear you sing. It says here your a tenor. I want to hear something tenor-ish" he said. "Do you know 'Oh Holy Night?'" Sure I replied. "Ok, let's hear it from the fall on your knees party" So the pianist tries bravely to play the song but she doesn't really know it but she hit a nice chord and I jumped in with my rendition of Oh Holy Night from the fall on your knees party. The Musical Director turnes to the person beside him and says "That's what I was hoping to hear"

I got a call-back!

So Wednesday I go back for the role of the Bishop. I am not really familiar with the show so I don't know how big or small a part it is but apparently, the guy is a tenor so there should be at least some singing involved.

It just goes to show you, you never know, unless you try.

What have you tried today?

So, how do I get started in voiceovers?

2008-07-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

This is the inevitable question that comes up whenever people find out that I do voiceovers. I'm not even a full-time voiceover and I still get the question. Maybe one day I can give someone some real solid advice of my own but for now, I rely mostly on the wisdom of others.

Dave Houston is one of those wise guys I steal from. Dave is a professional voiceover guy based in Austin Texas and he was kind enough to share some of his wisdon in a recent article, currently highlighted on the home page of Helium.com

So now you can stop bugging ME and go read some REAL advice on the subject.

My new friend Bobby

2008-07-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

So I just made a new friend online at Voiceover Universe, Mr. Bobby Rivers. The brother has got class, that's all I can say. He extended the hand of friendship by offering me a hook-up with a nice connection (I can't really go into the details) and all I can say is I really, really appreciate the gesture. Thanks Bobby!

Tons of Fun in the VO World

2008-07-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

So lots of people are getting ready to attend the biggest VO shindig of the year, V.O.I.C.E 2008. I really, really wanted to go this year but it looks like I'll be missing it again this year. All you people out there who attend, please take lots of pictures and videos and share all your notes and experiences with those of use who will be deprived.

The only way I might be able to attend is if I book a really nice eLearning job. Everybody keep your fingers crossed for me, ok?

By the way, I started another blog at http://www.serenitebiz.com which deals with my non VO related pursuits. You might want to check it out.

Peace!

New Yorker Turns on the Juice for Texas Power Company

2008-07-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

My friend Peter O'Connell has been selected as the voice of one of Texas' largest energy providers First Choice Power.

audio’connell Voice Over Talent is a worldwide voice over talent service featuring professional English speaking and foreign language male and female voice talents.

Irving, Texas-based First Choice Power secured O’Connell to provide the voice over for a series of commercials that highlighted the company’s price protection options to combat rising energy costs. The campaign included :15, :30 and :60 second radio commercials.

I am happy to be associated with Peter's company and I congratulate him on this latest victory!

La Vida Te Da Sorpresas

2008-06-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Which means Life brings you surprises.

I'm sorry that I haven't written in a while. I simply haven't been inspired to write anything about anything pertinent to my subject matter or of any use to people who like me are still pursuing the VO dream. I've been running my own personal gauntlet and it's taken it's toll on me.

But I'm still here.

My parents have been married for over 40 years. They've had their ups and downs and a couple of times they almost threw in the towel, but in the end they stuck it out. I figured my marriage would be the same. We'd have our ups and downs, but as long as we remained committed to sticking together, we'd eventually find our way through. We'd come out the other side, perhaps a bit bruised and battered, but in the end, together.

I was wrong.

So I've been a single man again for about two weeks and so far it's been a quite a jarring experience. I haven't thought seriously about another woman for almost twenty years. Oh sure, I've had my random fantasies and flirtations. Perhaps even a dalliance or two, but always from the perspective of the safely married man. From the perspective of a newly single, fat, middle-aged, graying, balding and in general falling swiftly into a state of advanced decrepitude man, it's completely different. Actually, it's friggin terrifying.

If suffering and life experience make one a better actor, I should be getting an Oscar shortly. I actually hope it's true so that once I get back in gear, I get to booking work like nobodies business.

I know it will get better. I just hope it gets better soon.

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, Ay Dios!

Do you know DB?

2008-04-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

One of the coolest people you'll ever want to meet in the world of voiceover actors is Dierdre Williams a.k.a. DB Cooper.

Voiceover Extra just posted an article about DB and it's a great read. You should definitely check it out.

I've known (well . . . eKnown) DB through her voiceover bulletin board, The VO-BB. The community she founded and patiently nurtured into easily one of best communities of voice actors in the world and one of the best sources of free information on how to become a successful voice actor available.

Just sign-up and take about a week or three to go through the archives. You'll find a virtual treasure trove of information on such voiceover related topics as "What Microphone should I buy?", or "How much should I charge for that 300 page audiobook?" and just tons of other stuff as well.

Many of the people I've come to know on the The VO-BB I consider real friends who support one another in this elusive pursuit to voice actor greatness.

Congratulations DB, on this fantastic article and I wish you much luck and success in your planned move to the Left coast. You truly ROCK!

Audioconnell Unveils New International Talent Roster

2008-04-12T00:26:00.000-07:00

I just saw the news that my friend Peter O'Connell has launched his new International Talent roster. Here is an excerpt from his Media Release:

It was announced today that professional voice talent company audio’connell Voice Over Talent has launched its international voice casting service via the web at www.internationalvoicetalents.com.

“We’ve been offering this service for years through a select group of international voice talents we’ve gathered based on client requests but we’d never sat down and organized it for the web until now,” said audio’connell Voice Over Talent president and voice talent Peter K. O’Connell. more . . .

I am very proud to be listed on Peter's roster in the Spanish Male category.

Peter, my heartfelt congratulations to you and all the talented folks on your roster. I wish you (and me) much success!!

A Peek behind the scenes

2008-04-11T05:58:00.000-07:00

I love it when I come across a video like this. Here is a peek behind the scenes of a working voice actor doing his thing on YouTube.

Doing a voiceover session.

The Power of Commitment

2008-04-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

I came across a fantastic quote and thought I'd share my thoughts about it here.

“The moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decisions, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.”
-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

I got bitten by the acting bug when I was in the 4th grade. It was the annual Christmas pagent and I had 1 line. I still remember it. "Gee grandpa!" I was 8 or 9 years old. I've been half-heartedly pursuing the dream of becoming an actor ever since, but there was always something missing. Commitment.

In high school, I was in the choir, the band, the track team and the gymnastics team. Yep, at at 17 years of age and 250lbs, I was the fattest gymnast in the conference. In the track team, I threw shot put and I sucked at it. The only place I had any real talent was in the performing arts. In the band, I played trumpet and I was pretty darn good. In the choir I was a soloist and the music teachers pet. I had tons of potential, but I lacked one thing. Commitment.

When I was in my twenties, I tried my hand at stand-up comedy with some local "open-mic" success. I told jokes, sang songs and did impressions but I never figured out how to get paid for it. Audience members and other performers complimented me on my versatility and talent yet there was still something missing. Commitment

Now I'm 46 years old and I have been pursuing voiceover and acting for almost 3 years. It's the longest I've ever been committed to actually doing the things necessary to succeed, and I am seeing some positive results. Am I a superstar voice actor? Not by a long-shot. At least not yet, but I do have something now that I hadn't had before. Commitment.

When you think about what you are pursuing, be it voice acting or anything else, remember one thing. If you are ever going to achieve any degree of success in your chosen pursuit, there is something you'll need to make first.

A Commitment

How to get a job doing voiceovers

2008-04-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is a question that most voice actors get on a pretty regular basis. When people find out what we do for a living, this inevitable question bubbles to the surface.

"People tell me I have a great voice, so how do I get a job doing voiceovers?".

The next time someone asks or emails you this question, send them to this link, provided by those fabby people at VOICES.COM

How to get a job doing voiceovers

101 Useful Resources for Online Entrepreneurs

2008-03-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

I found this on a non-vo site for internet Entrepreneurs and in today's environment, isn't that what most of us are? Anyway, here is a great list of resources entitled: 101 Useful Resources for Online Entrepreneurs

Over a 180 Resources for Voice Actors

2008-03-19T06:02:00.000-07:00

The good people at Voices.com have compiled an amazing list of Over 100 Resources that every voice actor should know about. There is a ton of great stuff here!

They also put together a fantastic list of over 80 Online Marketing resources for voice actors as well.

My thanks go out to Stephanie Ciccarelli and the people at Voices.com. You just gotta love people who share the wealth, huh!

Jimmy Hears a Who

2008-03-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

OK, I have been a huge fan of Jim Carrey since his "In Living Color" days.

The man is one of the most amazing comic talents ever. His elastic face and voice have brought me many an hour of explosive laughter. One time, I laughed so hard at his antics that I literally burst a blood vessel in my eye.

Anyway, Jim is starring in the animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic "Horton Hears a Who", opening this weekend at a theatre near you (I've always wanted to say that!).

Here is a link to a Jim Carrey interview about the film on the Dark Horizons website.

When I saw on Oprah (my wife makes me watch it I tell you!) that Jim was co-starring with none other than the legendary Carol Burnett and another of my favorites, Steve Carrell I was thrilled!

Speaking of Steve Carrell, did you catch him as Hammy, the fastest Squirrel on earth in "Over the Hedge"? He was fabulous in that role! But I digress.

The movie opens this weekend which just so happens to be my Birthday weekend (I was born on the Ides of March for you Shakespeare fans) and although I am on the downhill side of my 40s, I am looking forward to this movie and what are sure to be some amazing voiceover performances from these three incredibly talented people.

2008-03-06T05:26:00.000-08:00

In a missive from James Alburger and Penny Abshire, they share with us the following:

Meet the VOICE Headliners!

Susan Berkley - What a Great Voice!!

Friday Morning Keynote Speaker,Susan Berkley, is a top voice-over artist whose voice has sold millions of dollars worth of products and services on TV and radio commercials. She is the telephone voice of many Fortune 100 companies. Susan is CEO of Berkley Productions, Inc., a company that provides voice mastery training for aspiring voice artists, and well as performance coaching for business and sales professionals. She is the author of Speak to Influence - How to Unlock the Hidden Power of Your Voice. Visit The Great Voice Company to learn more about this dynamic lady! Susan is a master marketer and a darn good voice coach!!

Pat Fraley - Our Special Guest Star!

Keynote Speaker Monday Morning
Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Voicey Awards in 2008, Patrick Fraley has created voices for more than 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animation. Pat teaches 700+ students a year in events, workshops, and seminars on various aspects of voiceover. His unique character voice cirriculum is the only one accredited at the university level. He has taught voice for 35 years, is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of American and holds a Master's of Fine Arts degree in Professional Acting from Cornell University.

Pat Fraley is the "Voiceover King" of working outside the box! During his special guest appearance at VOICE 2008, he will reveal his "Secret Dialect System" created for voiceover. You'll be amazed at how Pat's dialect secrets will change the way you work with your characters! All that and even more. . . Pat is one of the nicest people we know!
Learn more at www.patfraleyteaches.com

Marc Cashman - Looking for a Muse!

Keynote Speaker on Sunday.
Marc Cashman is one of the few voice-acting instructors in the U.S. who is on "both sides of the glass"
as a Clio-winning Radio and TV commercial copywriter, producer, and casting director, and as a working voice actor. As a voice actor, he has been heard locally, regionally, nationally and internationally on radio, TV, film, documentaries, radio plays, video games and audio books. Marc has voiced thousands of commerials, dubbed foreign films, narrated dozens of audio books, and created the voices of many CD-Rom, online and video game characters. Oh, and did we mention. . . he's a really funny guy! Find out why at www.cashmancommercials.com

We're very excited about the caliber of all the speakers who will be presenting at VOICE 2008. In the coming weeks you'll learn more about:

Beverly Bremers Warm up that Voice!
Bob Bergen The official Warner Brothers Voice of Porky Pig
Nancy Wolfson Brain Tracks
Richard Horvitz Character Crazies!
Steve Hudson (UK) Creator of the PSR Method
Randy Thomas Voice of The Academy Awards
Dan Balestrero Voice Over Mastery
Karly Rothenberg Improv Maddness
Julie Williams Voiceover Chocolate
Deb Munro (Canada) Winner of Best Female Voice 2008 Voicey Awards
Chris Allport Mastering Self-Direction
Raleigh Pinksey Shameless Self-Promotion
Gabrielle Nistico (Voice Hunters)
Lee Marshall The Voice of Tony the Tiger
Marc Graue Fix in the Mix
Joe Klein The Podcast VO Guy
Stefan Kinell (Sweden) VO with an international flair
MJ Lallo Characters that move!
Joyce Castellanos Promo and Trailer Expert

And even more big names will be announced as they get closer to the event!!

O.T. - Am I working too hard??

2008-03-05T06:00:00.001-08:00

This is way off-topic but I just had to share this.

I read an article recently about a woman by the name of Ailin Graef who created a character in an online game called Second Life. The character's name is Anshe Chung. Anshe / Ailin has become the world's first Virtual Millionaire while playing the game! Furthermore, it only took her 2 years to do it! Here is a link to the press release: Anshe Chung became the world's first Virtual World Millionaire.

I mean this is amazing! This is an early step toward "The Matrix" when we will all be living our lives in virtual worlds! It is also very exciting because the possibilities are endless.

Now I've been working my day job and trying to build my voiceover business over the last 2 years and I have yet to get anywhere near millionaire status, so now I'm wondering, should I stop working so hard . . . and start playing games?

Learning to Fish

2008-03-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

I've been learning how to fish lately but so far, I haven't been able to land the big one.

I put the worm on the hook. There is some interest. I start getting a number of queries about voiceover work. Some interesting things are popping up for Spanish language voiceovers.

The fish start to nibble. I've responded to the queries and we start going back and forth. A couple of times, it looks like I'm going to book the job.

The fish are circling. I can see a dark shadow beneath the surface of the water. He looks HUGE! Man oh man I hope he bites!

There is a tremendous tug on the line! Oh baby I'm about to pull in a whopper! They ask if I can run into the New York City today! DRAT! I'm already booked for something else. Can I do it tomorrow?

Suddenly my line goes slack. The big one has gotten away. Man I hate that!

Truth be told, he wasn't that big, maybe just a Bluefish, but I wanted him, and I didn't get him.

But guess what. Tomorrow, I'll start all over again. I'll bait the hook, throw it in and see what bites. And if I get a great big tug on the line again, I'm going to finesse it gently, until I sink that hook in good and deep. I'm not going to let one get away that easily next time, that's for sure. And if he tries to get away, I'm going to fight him like a 300lb Marlin until I land that sucker and mount him on my wall.

Oh yes . . . it's just a matter of time.

V.O.I.C.E. 2008 Update

2008-02-15T08:32:00.001-08:00

Well, James Alburger has confirmed that VOICE 2008 will in fact be happening this year in Los Angeles and has provided a short list of the speakers who have been confirmed to date. So far we have:

Here's a short list of some of our confirmed VOICE 2008 presenters:

Susan Berkley
Deb Munro (Canada)
Marc Cashman
Pat Fraley
Bob Bergen
Raleigh Pinsky (author of "101 Ways to Promote Yourself")
Marc Graue (Hollywood studio owner - Marc Graue Voice Over Recording Studios, Burbank. Los Angeles' Premiere Voice Over Studios with ISDN Voice Over Studios and More
Stefan Kinell (Sweden's top VO talent - international VO)
Randy Thomas (VO for Academy Awards for many years)
Chris Allport

So for those of you who were wondering, it's a go and it appears that it's gonna be a good'un!

For the latest updates and information, check out their site at http://www.voice-international.com/

Casting begins for this season's "America's Got Talent"

2008-01-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

Casting Call: Casting for NBC's America's Got Talent begins immediately in 13 cities: Orlando, Nashville, Charlotte, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, New Orleans, Brandon, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York and Chicago.

Producers are looking for specialty acts such as dance groups, opera singers, acrobats, impersonators, kids groups and more.

All talent who would like to audition should visit the website to register: NBC.com - America's Got Talent - Casting.

V.O.I.C.E. 2008

2008-01-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

I hadn't heard from the organizers of the Voice Over International Creative Experience in a while and there was even some speculation that after a spectactular debut last year, there would be no follow up to the V.O.I.C.E conference. Well, it appears that those speculators were wrong. The "Official Announcement" for this years event landed in my mailbox a couple of days ago and I share the information here with you all. Here is a quote from the email . . .

VOICE 2007 was such an incredible event, you may be wondering how we plan to top the first event of its kind. But we can promise you that the 2008

VoiceOver International Creative Experience

Will be even more amazing!

You're not going to believe what (and who)is coming to VOICE 2008!
Check out our brand new website at www.voice-international.com

The Entertainment Industry Expo

2008-01-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

The Entertainment Industry Expo, billed as "the ultimate networking opportunity for anyone in or around the entertainment industry.", will take place Jan. 17 2008 at the Times Square Westin Hotel. It is FREE if you pre-register, or a $10 at the door.

Attendees will be given the chance to take part in casting calls, attend seminars and learn about new products or services that may advance their career.

Among the confirmed casting calls will be Telsey & Company, who handle casting for such notable Broadway shows as Wicked, Legally Blonde, Rent, Hairspray and The Color Purple, and MMG Model Management Group for all you model types.

In addition, many areas of the entertainment industry will be represented, including photographers, talent agencies, schools, casting directors, printing services, vocal coaches, casting websites, industry guilds and associations and many others.

Visit eienyc.com to pre-register.

Crappy Holidays

2008-01-02T13:38:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday season and I hope 2008 brings each of you the most incredible, unimaginable success ever!

As for my own Holiday season, well . . . let's just say, I'm glad it's over.

Here is something you may enjoy. These people have attained levels of success that I aspire to. I hope you find this inspirational.

A "Note from the Universe"

2007-12-14T09:02:00.001-08:00

I subscribe to a free daily email titled Notes from the Universe. I really enjoy these daily bits of inspiration and perhaps you will too. Here is the one I received recently.

By the simple act of thinking, Joe, vortexes are created, invisible energies are applied, and circumstances begin creeping to make real what was previously just imagined. This supernatural pull of your thoughts continues long after you think them, whenever there follows intent, expectation and action; moving mountains, parting rivers, and doing the "impossible" until there is the inevitable manifestation.

This is how your "thoughts becoming things." How they physically become things in a dimension that already exists, with billions of players and massive momentum. Not by appearing out of thin air, but through a manipulation of such forces in the unseen that literally begin shifting, morphing, and arranging all of the elements in your life so as to deliver to you the nearest equivalent of what you've been thinking. In other words, the "law of attraction."

"Thoughts becoming things" explains the law of attraction. It's why there is a law of attraction. And unlike any other 3 words in all the vocabularies of all the languages in the world, "thoughts become things" tells you exactly where you fit into the picture, as the thinker, the decision maker over what you will think about, revealing your power as a supernatural, all powerful, unlimited, CREATOR.

But, of course, many prefer not to think of themselves as so phenomenally powerful.

The Universe

Airwave Talent

2007-12-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am extremely proud to announce that I am now represented by (drumroll please . . .) Airwave Talent!

Airwave Talent is based in Cleveland Ohio and is a full service talent agency representing professional voice talents from all over the USA and beyond. We are also listed on VoiceBank.Net.

Airwave Talent is the brain child of Vic Harris, an experienced voice actor and producer. Vic is a no B.S. kind of guy and I can really appreciate that. I am confident that Vic will make Airwave Talent a major player in the industry and I am looking forward to a long and mutually prosperous relationship.

My heartfelt congratulations go to Vic and everyone at Airwave Talent, including ME! Hoo HAAAAAA!!!

Some educational resources

2007-12-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

I came across some great educational stuff on Youtube that I thought you might be interested in. Brought to us by the fine folks at Voice123, there are some very interesting and educational pieces here. I especially enjoyed the one on Branding by Nancy Wolfson of Break Into Voiceovers and the one on Auditions by Susan Berkeley of The Great Voice Company.

WARNING: They seemed to have quite a few technical glitches while recording the Nancy Wolfson one so you may have some trouble listening to that one but if you get through it, it's fantastic information. I hope you enjoy!

An Education in Anime Voice Acting

2007-11-30T19:09:00.000-08:00

I came across this piece on Youtube about the actors who do the Dragonball Z shows and games. It's about a half hour long and I found it very educational. I hope you enjoy.

The Do Not Miss Event of 2008!

2007-11-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone who is anyone in the world of voiceover, has at least heard about VOICE 2007. This was the 1st event of it's kind, bringing together top voice talent, producers, coaches and others, from all over the world in an event of learning, sharing and networking.

The list of presenters included such voiceover luminaries as Rodney Saulsberry, Pat Fraley, Bob Bergen and Don La Fontaine! I can't wait to find out who will be presenting in 2008!

The location and dates for the 2008 Voice Over International Creative Experience (a.k.a. VOICE) were announced recently. For those of you who want to start planning, here's the scoop:

Dates: Friday, August 8th - Monday August 11th
(There will be a reception on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 7th)
Location: Hyatt Regency Century Plaza - just south of Beverly Hills in Los Angeles
Registration Opens: January 1, 2008

The organizers are still working on the information & registration website but as soon as I find out the URL, I'll let you know.

I am definitely going to start saving my pennies because I missed this event in 2007 and I DO NOT want to miss it in 2008.

I hope to see you there!

Making your own way.

2007-11-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

Bryan Cox is a stand-up comic and voice actor. He is also one of the bravest, most creative, guys I know.

So what did Bryan do you ask? He wrote a book. When he tried to get his book published, the response was . . . well . . . less than enthusiastic.

Now at this point, most people would just toss the book up on a shelf and settle down in front of the TV, but not Bryan. No! He figured heck, nobody wants to publish my book so . . . I'll publish it myself, as an audio book!

Where others would have seen no way, Bryan Cox made his own way!

An all this, after surviving a broken neck, a heart attack and Cancer all within 3 years! Is this a brave, creative guy? Uh . . .HECK YEAH!!

His book is titled Road Stories of the Real Highway Comics and is filled with stories from Bryan's 18 plus years as a stand-up comic. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad but always personal, this highly entertaining audiobook is a must-listen for anyone interested in the worlds of Stand-up Comedy and Voiceover. Click here for a little sample.

Go visit his site at http://www.comicroadstories.com/ and pick up a copy for yourself.

I fought The Law . . . and The Law won!

2007-10-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody

I just had an amazing conversation with a guy who is opening up a brand spanking new talent agency. Now while nothing has been finalized yet, it looks like he wants to add ME to his roster of talent! Man oh man am I excited!

Let's see now, that would bring the number of agents representing me to . . . drumroll please . . . 1!! That's right, my first agent! HOOOO HAAAA!!!!!

How did I get this agent interested in representing me? I can't be 100% sure, but I firmly believe that the Law of Attraction, A.K.A. "The Secret" had a lot to do with it.

So what the heck is this Law of Attraction stuff about anyway?

Well, unless you've been under a rock for the last several months, there has been quite a lot of hullabaloo about a program called "The Secret". In "The Secret", a long list of prominent people including the likes of best selling authors John Gray (Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus) and Jack Canfield (The Chicken Soup books), teach about the Law of Attraction and how they've used it in their own lives. The DVDs and Books have become runaway best-sellers and been featured on many talk shows including Larry King Live and Oprah!

A while back, I received some information about a two hour audio program (and full transcript) describing a rather practical approach to learning about the Law of Attraction. This program only costs 7 bucks, heck, I spend more than that on lunch!

So, if you're interested in finding out what The Law Of Attraction is, how it works, and how to get it working in your own life, this may be pretty good place to start.

To get the $7 Law of Attraction Program, click here.

As far as my new agent goes, I am hoping to hear from him very soon so we can finalize the deal. It's my intention that nothing will prevent that from happening (that's LOA stuff), but keep your fingers crossed anyway. I can use all the good vibes I can get.

The Internet Marketing Plan for Voice Actors

2007-10-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

In order to achieve massive success in the voice over business, there are a number things we all need:

1 - Oodles of talent
2 - One or more killer, and I do mean KILLER demos
3 - a killer MARKETING PLAN!

OK, there's probably a bunch more stuff you need, but these 3 items are certainly among the top 10.

Having number 1 and number 2 doesn't mean much if the voiceover buyers out there are oblivious to your existence. That's where the new "Internet Marketing Plan for Voice Actors" comes in.

Created by the fine folks at Voices.com, Internet Marketing Plan for Voice Actors is timely and necessary information for all of you who are working diligently to move from voiceover "wanna-be" to voiceover "professional".

The Authors have provided a clear, comprehensive and actionable plan for enhancing your visibility among those critical voiceover service buyers out there.

The plan includes information on Advertising, Internet Marketing, Branding, search engine optimization and even such cutting-edge topics as Social Media Marketing.

I read through this guide from cover to cover and found it to be chock-full of useful information and I think you guys will too. To learn more, please visit http://www.voices.com/ebook/internet-marketing-plan-for-voice-actors.html

Are you taking care of business?

2007-10-19T23:21:00.000-07:00

If we are to succeed in the voice acting business, we must pay just as much, if not more, attention to the "business" part of the equation.

Yeah, there's voice, most of us in this business have one, and yeah, there's acting, most of us are pretty OK in this area too, but the business part, that's where we "creative" types, fall on our faces.

I must confess, I haven't been doing a very good job of keeping track of my business. I have basically been working on the honor system. I do a job, and I wait (and hope) for a check to arrive . . . eventually.

Oh yeah, periodically I might jot down a client name and some dates on a napkin somewhere, but when the checks come in, do I carefully match up my check stubs with my napkins? Am I sure that all my napkins have been paid? Uh . . . not really.

So how do we keep track of the constant, never ending, avalanche of clients that want to send us sacks of cash for our services (man, oh man, talk about wishful thinking!)? Good question, I'm glad you asked.

I just recently learned that Intuit, the makers of Quickbooks, a respected name in accounting software, has made their QuickBooks Simplestart 2008 accounting software available for FREE!

Hey Joe! Did you say FREE??

That's right, FREE. It's not a 30-day trial, it's a full-blown accounting package that you can download and install for free and you can use for as long as you like to keep track of your business.

I am so glad the people at Intuit have done this because frankly, I caught a cold recently and most of my napkins . . . well, that's another story.

2007-10-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

I recently did a voiceover job for a local ad agency that I had auditioned for many months ago but never heard from. The guy I'd auditioned for left the company and a new guy took over. He sent me a query to see if I was available to do two 60-second pitch scripts for them.

uh . . . HECK YEAH!

While the money wasn't all that great, this is a new client with the possibility of repeat business, and they prefer that I do the jobs from home!

So I did the job from my tiny home studio and received the following feedback:

It sounds like you have a lot of reflections happening in the space where you recorded these.

CRAP! I need a sound booth!

While I would love, love, love to be able to plunk down a couple grand and have the people at Whisperroom or GK Acoustics send me their top of the line Vocal Booth, the day when I will be able to do that has not yet arrived, so . . .

I cranked up Google and started searching for ways to improve my sound. Since I, like most actors I know, am on a very limited budget, my aim is to produce professional quality sounds, at dollar-store prices.

I start searching for DIY voice-booth designs. There are several available on the internet for free or for a small fee. In addition, if you search through the various VO message boards, you will find many talented, generous people who willingly share what they have done and what has worked for them.

One of the designs I came across during my explorations, was created by a musician named Tim O'Brien. His design is clever, portable and most important, cheap!

Now although Mr. O'Brien is not a voiceover guy, I thought that some of you guys might find his design of interest, so here it is, Tim O'Brien's DIY SoundBooth / SoundWall.

Ladle Rat Rotten Hut

2007-10-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

A quote from Don LaFontaine: "Devote yourself to the service of the words and you're halfway there."

The Service of the Words. . .

But what if they are the wrong words? Can you still serve them?

Arthur Godfrey read a story on his TV show back in the 1950s titled "Ladle Rat Rotten Hut" which when read aloud and with the right emphasis, reveals itself to be the epic tale, "Little Red Riding Hood". Although the words themselves may be wrong, the meaning remains intact if you a) read them aloud, b) emphasize them correctly and c) "Devote yourself to the service of the words".

There is an audio file of "Ladle Rat Rotten Hut" on this page which you can listen to. You can find the complete text of the original book "Anguish Languish" by Howard Chace on Kevin Rice's site.

Why don't you try one of these "Furry Tells" as an exercise?

Speaking of Games

2007-10-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

D.B. Cooper and Pat Fraley, two of my voiceover heroes, recently made a fabulous presentation at the Game Developers Conference in Austin Texas. This is great stuff folks. Go check it out. You can even download an audio file of their presentation!

What's up in the world of Cartoons?

2007-10-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

Many people who go into voiceover secretly desire to get into animation. I mean let's face it folks, are the people who voice "The Simpsons" some of the luckiest actors around or what! Anyway, I recently came across Cartoon Brew which is a fantastic site for people who want to know what's happening in the world of animation. Why not take a look?

Voice acting is hard work

2007-10-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

Man oh man did I have a tough day at the office. Well the studio.

I reported to Everest Productions for an ADR session and went into the studio as I've done countless times before ready to give it my acting all.

Everest handles production for EBRU TV, a Turkish TV company in New Jersey. I've been doing ADR work there off and on for over almost two years.

For those of you unfamiliar with ADR or Automatic Dialog Replacement work, that's when you have a movie or TV program that has already been completed but one reason or another, some or all of the dialog of the on-screen actors needs to be replaced. A voiceover actor is hired to record the new and hopefully improved, replacement dialog. Sometimes, they do this to remove cuss words for distribution on regular network TV and such.

The stuff I've been doing is replacing stuff that was originally recorded in one language and has been translated into another language. In this case, it was a Turkish TV show entitled "The Teacher" which we were dubbing into English.

You still with me? OK.

So we get through the first several sets of dubs and all is well. Then my director suddenly realizes that the character I am voicing has some very long, wordy speeches in this episode and the guy who did the script translation did'nt do such a good job matching the translated dialog to the lip-flap.

In ADR work, the dialog and the voiceover actor try to match the lip-flap or mouth movements, of the actor on-screen as perfectly as possible. Otherwise you get that really bad Kung-Fu movie effect where you see the actors lips moving but there are no words coming out or you can hear the actors voice but the on-screen actor's lips don't move until 2 or 3 seconds later.

OK, so now the fun begins.

Most of the speeches this particular character has in the show are approximately the length of the Manhattan yellow pages. Undaunted, my director says to me, "here's what you're going to say". I snatch up my pen and we furiously try to re-write the dialog to better match the lip flaps.

So here are the ingredients for this particularly tasty stew:

Two - episodes that need to be completed tonight in order to meet the scheduled deadlines.

One - actor who never took a class in speed-writing or stenography. My handwriting is at best chicken scratch and at worst heiroglyphics.

One - director / recording engineer who has had a long day and is short on patience.

One - gaggle of kids running around the office, just outside the studio door, due to a Turkish Holiday!

Yummy Yum Yum!!

Needless to say, we got through it and while there were a few cuts and bruises, nobody got seriously injured . . . not even the kids.

If anybody ever tells you that voiceover work is easy, tell him he clearly doesn't know what he's talking about.