By Mark Grove
Errick Lewis is a well known Oregon based Bass session player who has made a name for himself doing sessions for top artists and doing endorsement deals with some of music's top equipment makers like Epifani Amps and Pavel bass guitars.
EL has also latched onto gigs with artists like Snoop,Jay-Z and Lauryn Hill. Before Eric's deals with Epifani and Pavel, he worked with Fender and MTD Bass Guitars.
Errick has been able to capitalize on opportunities by being a consummate original indie bass bottom feeder who gives artists what they want, yet inject a dose of his own style on bass to the mix.
All of this connects to procuring endorsement deals with music equipment companies. Making the deal work for the companies guitars,amps,stomps or what ever it is, is what's at issue--not "free shit".
There has to be a fit there. Eric has molded his career and bass playing style so he was able to be an indie musician that controls his career, and not be controlled by management, a label or an endorsement deal.
You'll find out in this interview with Errick on how to approach a music company and help them, not the other way around.
This Video Is Of Errick Lewis Jammin' Away. Very Short video with
very tight playing.
The Errick Lewis Take On Doing Endorsement Deals The Right Way
MG: This is a typical want of Players thinking, "Yeah Free Axes and Rigs".
Should you get that out of your mind and think, what can I do for the Axe or rig maker?
EL: yeah, completely take that out of your mind and think how can I help the company promote themselves and myself as well.
MG:Do you have any ideas on how to promote your band through an endorsement deal, yet focus on the equipment makers wants?
EL: Taking certain photos of your band with the endorser's or the name of your band.
MG: Is it important to understand all aspects of an endorsement deal so you're doing what they want, yet not chaining yourself to a deal that you get absolutely nothing from?
EL: yeah, every endorsement deals should be beneficial for both parties, whether its promotions of gear.
MG: How long should you use a product before approaching a company for an endorsement deal?
Example: Your deal with Minnieweather Basses
EL: its not about using the product, its about finding out about the product and what the benefits of the products are, so basically, which product has the best quality.
MG:Was a demo with your Bass playing being upfront in the demo on each track?
EL: Everything that I play when Im playing, whether its a demo, a single track or a whole album, is me giving 100% and being upfront with my sound and my approach to music
MG: For other players out there is playing regular gigs and having a strong rep as a player helpful in getting a deal?
EL: Yes, the more people who know about you, the easier it is for the company to find out information about you without you having to tell them.
MG: Last question Errick. Should players who just play locally try to test local guitar and rig makers. Not just to get free equipment, but help the makers promote their wares and buy their equipment if they like it?
EL: yes, your local companies just may be the ones that help take you to the next level, and also, you have more of a personal relationship because you can just "drop in".
For more info on Errick Lewis and how to contact him about endorsement deals or playing bass, go to...
erricklewis@gmail.com
http://www.myspace.com/truthbass
Cell:(503)839-3921
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