Suzanne Vega
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- Nine Objects Of Desire Tour and Promotion -
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Subj: Album promotion, publicity, etc.
Date: 96-08-10 17:55:43 EDT
From: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
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Hello everyone,
Does anyone know what kind of promotional activities A&M is planning for the release of '9 Objects'? I hope they come up with some creative stuff! (We've already heard of some stations playing 'No Cheap Thrill,' so that's a start.)
I read that Warner Bros. is planning all sorts of events for REM's new one, including playback parties in major markets, a call-in radio show with band members, concert footage and video release parties at Tower Records at midnight on the night before the release, in-store promotions, TV spots, internet 'cybercasts', etc. Of course, REM have become 'mega-stars.' (REM's 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' is also scheduled for release on Sept. 10, but, for me, it will have to wait!).
OK, we know that A&M probably won't do all *that*, but let's hope they do a good job of 'getting the word out.' After all, it's been 4 years. Will Suzanne make any TV appearances? What about international markets?? We all know Suzanne has a rather large following in Europe, Japan, Australia, and any other country I left out! ;) Let's have a worldwide party on Sept. 10!
-Rob
Subj: Latest SV Tour Dates
Date: 96-09-05 20:05:20 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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September 11 1:30PM - live on-air WXRV,6 PM in-store at Tower on Newbury
Street
September 12 4:30PM - live on air WXPN (Phila); in-store at HMV on Walnut ST at 6 PM
September 13 3:30PM - live on-air on WHFS; in-store at Tower on Pennsylvania Ave at 6 PM
September 15 after 8PM -- live on-air with Vin Scelsa on WNEW (NY)
September 16 Appearance on Late Night With David Letterman
September 17 In Deroit - on-air on CIDR at 1 PM; in-store at Harmony House at 7 PM
September 18 In Seattle -- live on-air on KMTT, 12:30 and in-store at Borders, 6PM
September 19 In LA -- live broadcast over KSCA from Gene Autrey museum
plus in-store at Virgin Megastore at 5 PM
September 20 In SF -- Noon, live on-air on KFOG and in-store at Virgin at 6PM
September 23 In Denver -- various on-air tba plus in-store at Twist and Shoot at 6PM
September 24 in Chicago -- 2PM - live on air at WXRT and in-store at Tower at 6PM
September 26 appearance on The Rosie O'Donnell Show
Suzanne Vega Fall Tour ‘96
During the period October 2-12, Suzanne will be doing various TV shows across Europe (X-UK)
October 4 Salle Playel Paris
October 6 Alter Wartesalle Cologne
October 7 Grosse Freiheit Hamburg
October 21 Gordon Center Baltimore, MD
October 22 Off
October 23 Variety Playhouse Atlanta, GA
October 24th Off
October 25th 9:30 Club Washington D.C.
October 26th Electric Factory Philadelphia, PA
October 27th Berklee Performance Center Boston, MA
October 28th Off
October 29th Irving Plaza New York, NY
October 30th Northampton Academy Of Music Northampton, MA
October 31st Off
November 1996
November 1st Trinty Center Toronto, ONT
November 2nd Flynn Theater Burlington, VT
November 3rd Cabaret Music Hall Montreal, QUE
November 4th TBA
November 5th Off
November 6th Royal Oak Detroit, MI
November 7th Park West Chicago, IL
November 8th O’Shaughnessy Auditorium St. Paul, MN
November 9th Off
November 10th Bluebird Theater Denver, CO
November 11th Off
November 12th Off
November 13th Richard’s Vancouver, BC
November 14th King Cat Theater Seattle, WA
November 15th Roseland Theater Portland, OR
November 16th Off
November 17th Warfield San Francisco, CA
November 18th Off
November 19th Off
November 20th El Rey Theater Los Angeles, CA
November 21st Galaxy Theater Santa Ana, CA
November 22nd Ventura Theater Ventura, CA
Subj: Re: SV Appearances/Tour Dates, "Nine Objects" Review (Singapore)
Date: 96-08-14 17:42:04 EDT
From: algranti@club-internet.fr (David Algranti)
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>U.S. MINI TOUR!:
>Starts Ocotber 21 in Baltimore.
>Other dates (90% confimred) are 10/23 Atlanta, 10/25 DC, 10/26 Phila, 10/27
>Boston, 10/29 NYC -- more to come
Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeehaa!!!
I can't believe it!
Ok, Ok, it's just 90% confirmed, but Suzanne will perform live in NYC on 10/29?
I can't believe I'm so lucky because I will be in NYC (I live in France)
from 10/26 to 10/31.
Aaah... I'm blessed, life can be so sweet (sometimes). And say that my
greatest fear was that she would choose the time I'll go to NY to perform in
France!
Now I hope I'll meet some of you there (Hi U212!). I'll be with a friend I
made from this list (another French David who still won't delurk).
... thank you thank you thank you thank you...
Davis, happy as a clam... and who won't be able to sleep tonight.
PS: And... umm... dear Eric... I advise you to find another planet to live on if you ever call the 10% left.
Subj: Re: SV Appearances/Tour Dates, "Nine Objects" Review (Singapore)
Date: 96-08-14 19:27:04 EDT
From: mstrong@ozemail.com.au (Michael Strong)
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Eric (or any other well connected person)
I know it's way too much to expect a tour downunder, but do you have any info about release dates for the album here? I'm sure those in other countries would also appreciate an international release date list, if such a thing exists. (I haven't even it heard it mentioned on radio here.)
David A., I can certainly appreciate your enthusiasm - life can be so good!
Regards,
Michael
Subj: More Press Buzz - 1 of 3 - sorry!
Date: 96-08-13 23:35:18 EDT
From: Unique212@aol.com
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CC: Unique212@aol.com
NEW YORK-Always an artist who pushes herself to explore uncharted musical
territory, Suzanne Vega was presented with the ultimate challenge two years
ago, when her first child was born.
Suddenly, she found herself with precious little time to devote to
songwriting, performing, and recording. Eventually, however, she and her
husband/producer, Mitchell Froom, hit their stride and got down to the
business of recording her fifth studio album.
The result of their efforts is "Nine Objects Of Desire," the follow-up to
Vega's acclaimed 1993 release "99.9' F." Due Sept. 10 on A&M Records, "Nine
Objects" is a sultry, exotic recording that features Froom's artful
production and inspired performances from drummers Pete Thomas and Jerry
Marotta, bassists Bruce Thomas and Sebastian Steinberg (of Soul Coughing
fame), and Froom and engineer Tchad Blake on various instruments. The album
was recorded at the Magic Shop in New York and mixed at Sound Factory in Los
Angeles.
Vega describes "Nine Objects" as "a sexier album than any other one I’ve
made" and a "less defiant" record than its predecessor, which emphasized
edgy, industrial sounds. She adds that the new record is "not a retro
album," despite the lounge-like styling on the sleeve for "Caramel," her
single from the soundtrack to "The -Truth About Cats And Dogs," issued
earlier this year.
"A lot of people are thinking that the whole album is going to be like
'Caramel' and it's going to be lounge music, but I don't think it is," says
Vega. "It has a funkiness about it."
A&M plans to aggressively promote "Nine Objects" to Vega's eclectic fan
base, which spans the triple-A, alternative folk, modern rock, and AC
formats. The album's first single and video is "No Cheap Thrilll," an
uptempo, catchy cut. The track goes to radio Aug. 14.
(odd technical problems snipped)
About the title: "In every one of these songs there's an object of desire. It's either me desiring someone or someone desiring someone else or someone desiring me. And there are different types of desire, so I added them all up and there were nine. I thought of lying and calling it 'Seven Objects of Desire' or calling it 'Twelve Songs About Desire', but then I thought it would be more accurate to say it was nine."
U212
Subj: Re: SV Appearances/Tour Dates, "Nine Objects" Review (Singapore)
Date: 96-08-15 04:06:12 EDT
From: algranti@club-internet.fr (David Algranti)
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>I know it's way too much to expect a tour downunder, but do you have any
>info about release dates for the album here? I'm sure those in other
>countries would also appreciate an international release date list, if
>such a thing exists. (I haven't even it heard it mentioned on radio
>here.)
>
>David A., I can certainly appreciate your enthusiasm - life can be so
>good!
Hi, Michael. Usually, the release dates are worldwide ones. So if there's a big music store near you you should get the album at the same time as everybody. If there's not such a big store near you, I suggest you just ask your usual music store when they think they will get it. I don't think Eric can help you, it all depends on the stores.
David.
Subj: Suzanne Questions, Some More Info, Online Events
Date: 96-08-15 23:05:35 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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To: bluenote@jcn18.com, mstrong@ozemail.com.au, undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Hi Guys -
Replies to some questions...
bluenote@jcn18.com writes:
>> Vin Scelsa (WNEW Sunday nights in NYC) mentioned that she might drop by. Any word yet on that? <<
Vin Scelsa will likely be on Sunday, Sept 15.
mstrong@ozemail.com.au (Michael Strong) asks:
>>I know it's way too much to expect a tour downunder, but do you have any info about release dates for the album here? I'm sure those in other countries would also appreciate an international release date list, if such a thing exists. (I haven't even it heard it mentioned on radio here.)<<
Regarding Australia, no plans for a tour, but I believe it will be a
simultaneous worldwide release. Will double check on that and get back to
you...
From the management:
>>As expected, some of the dates I gave you yesterday already ssem to be
changing -- there may be a Letterman show on one of those dates and thus have
to shift one of the cities. I hope this will not present a problem for you
cyber folks, but it is the nature of this kind of campaign -- there are
ALWAYS changes. We'll try to keep you updated on them.<<
From me:
We're working out the details of some online Suzanne events - *possibly* an
online chat, Q/A sessions, soundclip replies to selected questions...stay
tuned!
See ya,
Subj: Tour dates (sigh)
Make that (heavy sigh)
Starting in Baltimore and coming to Atlanta and heading back up to
DC sounds like she's *not* coming to Florida. It's the classic
sorta-coming-down-this-way-but-not-quite-far-enough tour syndrome.
And is that Atlanta date a *Tuesday*?
Oh well, this means one thing: road trip. (If the show starts at 8
and I leave at, say, noon, I can make it). And develop some exotic
disease to keep me out of work for a couple days. (Then again, if I
leave Atlanta at midnight and get home at 8 a.m. .... The things you
do for your favorite musicians.) "Gosh, boss, I think I had that
Ebola virus, but then I took these pills that Rush Limbaugh
recommended and it cleared right up! Only I have this sudden desire
to vote for Dole."
Hey, David's coming all the way from France, right?
That's all right. I wasn't using this jugular vein anyway.
Sigh. Sigh. Sigh.
-- Bob, who's just depressed about something else and am probably
just projecting right now and in any case will not, under any
circumstances, allow this tour to pass through any adjoining or, if
necessary, non-adjoining states without managing to hook up with it
at some point, even if I have to get there via a ValuJet plane during
a week when the airline is having its Oxygen Canisters Fly Free
promotion (uh oh, and that's not that Olympic guard across the aisle,
is it? ...)
P.S. You know, Gainesville, FL, is only *five* hours south of Atlanta
and sort of a Musical Hot Spot (tm) right now. Suzanne could play in
the very town where Meringue and Big White Undies got their start. And
then there's always Yeehaw Junction nearby.
Just a suggestion.
Subj: Re: Tour dates (sigh)
In a message dated 96-08-17 03:24:14 EDT, Bob King writes:
<< Starting in Baltimore and coming to Atlanta and heading back up to
DC sounds like she's *not* coming to Florida. It's the classic
sorta-coming-down-this-way-but-not-quite-far-enough tour syndrome. >>
Hey!
That's what's been confirmed *so far*...there'll be more to come, I am told.
On the other hand, I'm not holding my breath on a Fort Lauderdale or Miami
show... :(
See ya,
Subj: Tour dates (sigh) - Gainesville - Reply
Gainesville FLA is the birthplace of a character (played by L
rondstadt) in Randy Newman's new "Faust" musical.
Getting anybody to visit FLA in the summer, especially a
savvy New Yorker could be tough. For an East coaster, FLA
is about as cool as Atlantic City. Seems half of NY ends up
down there - and not the good half!
Subj: Re: Tour dates (sigh)
> Hey!
Yeah, Eric, but this happens *all the time* and the harbingers are
not good. They've already said it's going to be a brief tour, so I
can't imagine she'll spend two weeks bopping up and down between D.C.
and Florida when she has the rest of a continent to conquer.
I do intend to see her no matter what. But if it's real far away I
won't be able to drag along my non-Vega-fanatic friends, who would
probably raise all kinds of silly objections like "you want to drive
20 hours round trip for a _folk music concert_?????!!!!!" That would
be a shame, since I can think of a few who I think would really
enjoy seeing her.
It's funny you mention Miami -- it's a major city, but does anybody
ever play down there? I know the huge national tours usually do, but
I imagine that a lot of small-to-middlin' acts find that awfully far south
to travel. The ones that show up here often end up in some kind of
Gainesville-Orlando-Tampa Bay loop.
Oh well. I won't hold my breath either, but I'll cross my fingers.
-- Bob, making a brief foray out of Election Season Hell
P.S. I seem to remember a statistic that Florida residents are 4.9
times more likely than the average American to buy all of a
musician's CDs after seeing the musician on tour, especially if the
musician is a white-but-raised-Puerto-Rican New York folk singer who
has had a child in the past couple of years. I don't remember the
source, but I'm sure it was reliable. Stats don't lie, do they?
Also, Floridians are 2.3 times more likely to hold standing ovations
for songs containing the words "Queen," "and," and "Soldier." And
only one-third as likely as Arizonans to call out for "Freebird."
Also, if the election were held today, 23 percent of registered
Florida voters would vote for Ruby.
Subj: Re: Tour dates (sigh)
>Also, if the election were held today, 23 percent of registered
Unfortunately, the candidates must be at least 35 (months) :)
From: sbraddock@aegonusa.com (scott braddock)
I also am curious as to what promo material will be used prior to or at
release time of "9 Objects of Desire". I am a native Philadelphian now
residing in Tampa, and have found quite a "Vega-less Vacuum" down south.
I notice than when Suzanne tours, she does a northeast run, then goes to
Europe. I certainly hope she comes down this way once the entire tour
schedule comes out.
I was at an Indigo Girls concert recently, and I wore my "Days of Open
Hand" concert t-shirt. You would not believe the number of people who
asked me where I obtained the shirt and where they could get one.
I can't wait for the release of "9 Objects", and look forward to years of
enjoyment listening to her insightful, soulful musings.
Subj: Tour Dates - explanation?
Hello everyone, (international readers may want to skip this one!)
Well, I'm officially bummed by the recent annoucment of the remaining
dates. Seems there's a gaping hole in the U.S. that extends roughly from
Atlanta west along I-20 and I-10 all the way to L.A. That's right, folks-
no dates anywhere near Texas or Louisiana. Those in the Midwest get
Chicago, Detroit or St. Paul. She's also going to Denver, and there are
plenty of stops on the West Coast, with 3 shows in southern Calif. alone.
She's even doing a few shows in Canada.
I would like to know why Suzanne and her management chose to limit the
tour to only these locations. Are places like Dallas, Houston, Austin,
San Antonio, New Orleans, and the entire state of Florida, not considered
"major markets"? She *is* going to Burlington, VT, though. Incredible.
(not to slight anyone in the Northeast, but you get Boston & Northampton
too). What were these decisions based on? Cost, logistics, demographics,
results from the last tour, presumed fan base locations, album sales??
Anyone else want to campaign for more/different dates? I know she wants
to limit the tour, be at home more often, etc, but maybe some re-shuffling,
a few more dates, or at least an explanation is in order here. How about
a stop somewhere in TX or LA on the way back from the last scheduled
concert in Ventura, CA on 11/22? Just an idea.
Opinions anyone?,
-Rob (no, I'm not upset or anything! ;) )
----------------------------------
Subj: Re: Suzanne Vega Fall Tour Dates
I tear myself from the collective sighs of 12 million Floridians to
observe: ah, the deed is done.
Eric, one question, if you know this -- WHEN do the tickets go on sale?
Political rumor du jour: Dick Morris' "companion" ratted on him to the
Star because he couldn't get Suzanne Vega tickets. That bit with getting
Clinton on the phone was just a tired attempt to make up for it. For want
of a nail ... (If you're outside the US and don't get what I'm talking
about -- count yourself lucky).
Anyone else surprised the Democrats didn't use "Bad Wisdom" as their
convention theme song? I thought Gore was gonna do the macarena to "Wooden
Horse." Guess I was mislead. It was funny, however, to see Dole
lip-synching to "As Girls Go."
Pardon me while I find something black to wear.
-- Bob, who'd like to hear a candidate come out _against_ family values
for a change
"Is it a mouse?
Subj: Re: Suzanne Vega Fall Tour Dates
In a message dated 96-08-30 03:03:06 EDT, bobking delurks to write:
>> I tear myself from the collective sighs of 12 million Floridians to
observe: ah, the deed is done. <<
Yeah, weird how the tour got laid out. I'm with Rob on this
he said,
"I would like to know why Suzanne and her management chose to limit the
tour to only these locations. Are places like Dallas, Houston, Austin,
San Antonio, New Orleans, and the entire state of Florida, not considered
"major markets"? She *is* going to Burlington, VT, though. Incredible. "
Alternative artists consistently sell out the smaller venues in South Florida
- Tori Amos set some record for selling out at Sunrise Musical theater,
10,000 Maniacs, Sting - all sell outs. I couldn't scalp a ticket for Steely
Dan in Palm Beach.. Okay, maybe Suzanne doesn't have the draw of those
artists at this moment in time, but there must be more people in Florida - be
it Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jax, or Orlando - than in Burlington, VT -
just an example - who'd be happy to have the chance to see her show. Maybe
its one of those chicken and egg discussions -
"We dont go there because she didn't do well there on the last tour"
"Maybe the tour wasn't well-promoted"
"We dont go there because she didn't do well there on the last tour"
- etc -
I don't know any of this, I'm just guessing.
As for when the tix go on sale - I don't know - I'll see if I can get phone
#'s for the list and you can phone the venues directly...
Eric
Subj: Re: Tour Dates - explanation?
Actually, it's uncanny how closely Suzanne's tour mirrors President
Clinton's strategy to lock up enough electoral votes to win in November:
Clinton cannot win without California and its 54 electoral votes, the most
of any state. Hence, he's visited that state at least two dozen times.
Suzanne oddly parallels that strategy with her numerous scheduled
California shows, on top of the one she just did.
She also goes after the Northwestern states of Oregon and Washington, with
their combined 18 electoral votes. They're solidly in the Democratic
column, so Clinton is counting on them too.
Suzanne has scheduled stops in New York (33 votes), which is leaning
Democratic, and Pennsylvania (23), which is up for grabs, and she's aiming
to get Georgia (13), which went for Clinton in '92. The District of
Columbia always votes Democrat, though of course it just counts for 3
votes. Massachusetts (12) is, as always, in the liberal camp.
Then observe her swing through the Midwest: Illinois (22 votes), Michigan
(18) and Minnesota (10). Just like Clinton's recent whistlestop tour. Is
Suzanne ditching the tour bus for a train?
Finally, Clinton needs at least one Western state to prevent a Dole sweep
in that region. Suzanne opts for Colorado, the state of Gary Hart and Pat
Schroeder, with its 8 electoral votes.
Unfortunately, this strategy leaves Suzanne with only 214 electoral votes,
far short of the 270 needed to win the White House, and would therefore
leave Jack "Gold Standard" Kemp a heartbeat away from the presidency.
Can America take that risk?
Clinton's strategy at this point is to pursue several other Midwestern and
Southern states -- Iowa, Missouri and, of course, Arkansas -- as well as
New Mexico and all of New England except for New Hampshire. However, just
by adding concerts in Florida (25) and Texas (32), Suzanne would rack up
271 votes, just barely eking out a victory and making presidential
history.
Um, I think I forget what my point was going to be. Anyone else think I
need to get a life?
Remember, Suzanne: It takes a village!
-- Bob, who wants Suzanne on the ballot in all 50 states
Subj: Re: Tour Dates - explanation?
On Thu, 29 Aug 1996 16:23:38 -0500, Rob wrote:
>I would like to know why Suzanne and her management chose to limit the
> How about
&&&&&&&&&& psychdoc@netcom.com &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& b.j. mora &&&&&
People are like stained glass windows; they sparkle and
shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in
their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light within..
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Subj: Re: Tour Dates - explanation?
There is not a Boston Date scheduled, which is lame because on her last tour
for 99.9 she played a 21+ show and i couldn't get in. I could not make it to
newport this year either, BUT, because of the list I have scheduled the 11th
off and will be taking a greyhound down (entire time in Boston ~3 hours) and
back to Bangor ME @ midnight, just to see her. I *HOPE* she would at least
play a couple songs at her instore, I'm willing to take pictures for the WEB
page (even have access to a scanner) of course if she did play, Gypsy would
be incredible...although I still cannot get over how incredible her first
album is. I can't put words to it, maybe because I know Suzanne reads this.
mike r.
Subj: Suzanne's touring band?
I spoke to Pete Thomas (the drummer from Elvis Costello's band, the
Attractions) after an Elvis show the other night. He said he'll be
touring with Suzanne.
Does anyone know who else will be in the band?
Subj: Re: Tour Dates - explanation?
Hello again, everyone,
b.j. mora wrote:
Well, I do find this "let's do both coasts and few dates in the Midwest
and that'll do it" mentality *very* odd. The south central part of the
country isn't 'hip' enough?
Regarding Texas and Louisiana:
Yes, yes, don't know, sometimes. I was at the shows in 1987 and '90 in
Austin and she drew around 1500 people each time. I know that she played
Dallas and Houston also on these tours. In '93, I'm pretty sure she did
at least 2 shows in Texas. I know she's cutting back on this tour, but
not even *one* show anywhere in the area? Doesn't make sense to me at all.
Austin has (or at least had, last time I was there) some very cool radio
stations that played SV. Even Houston too, where I think Sarah McLachlan
drew record crowds when she came through in '94-'95.
Still waiting for answers and hoping for more dates,
-Rob
Subj: In store - Denver
Hi guys,
I consider myself very lucky to travel through Denver on September 23,
when Suzanne has an in store performance. Since I don't know
Denver at all, does anybody know where the Tower Record store
is there? (If there are multiple - in which one will she play?)
Also what time will she perform? Are there any times set, like
just after lunch or is it, whenever she feels like it?
Thanks for any help,
Date: 96-08-30 14:03:11 EDT
On Fri, 30 Aug 1996, nunki wrote:
> I spoke to Pete Thomas (the drummer from Elvis Costello's band, the
;-)
Subj: Re: Suzanne's touring band?
from the LA Times -
FYI - Elvis Costello played here (L.A.) the other night with the
Attractions and told the crowd that it'll probably be the last time
they play L.A. A Warner Bros. spokesman was quoted as saying that's
it's unlikely that Elvis will play with the Attractions after this
tour is over in Japan 9/15.
I also vote for Mike Visecglia (sp?) on guitar/bass.
Subj: SV Press
Hi Guys,
FYI, this month's People Magazine has a couple of paragraphs on Suzanne, as
does Elle Magazine. (I was on the supermarket checkout line, okay?) Anyone
have a copy of either/both and wants to type the text, I'll slap it on the
site.
Also, in this week's NY Magazine,
"Suzanne Vega - Suzanne will be online talking with her fans about her
new LP, Nine Objects of Desire, on 9/9 at 7 P.M. Head for the Website
for more information [http://www.vega.net]."
Eric
Subj: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
Hi Everyone -
Suzanne's manager, Ron Fierstein, has read through the notes on Suzanne's
Fall tour destinations. I forward his reply...
Eric
I'm Ron Fierstein, Suzanne's manager. I've taken note of some disappointment
expressed over the fact that Suzanne's Fall tour will be missing certain
portions of the country. I think you deserve an explanation.
Actually, the reasons are all those obvious ones I've read you all postulate.
This tour is meant to be an "album launch" tour. As such, it is designed
specifically to reach Suzanne's top 14 or 15 sales markets, determined from
the Soundscan sales data we have on 99.9F. It is not coincidental that many
of the tour markets are the same ones in which she will be doing promotional
activities (i.e., on-air radio and in-store appearances) during the weeks of
release. The theory is to create a cumulative media profile for Suzanne in
those markets to help get the album off to a solid sales start during what is
a very competitive time of year at retail. Regarding Canada, that is a
separate market from the US, and we have to do something to support the A&M
company there, thus the 3 shows in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.
Some of the other markets we're doing, e.g., Burlington, Northhampton, and
even Portland OR, are what I call "routing" shows. That is, they help fill
in between dates in the target markets. Because of problems with venue
availabilities, it's not always possible to book your "dream" tour on the
specific dates you might want, and you often find yourself waiting around in
an area for a day or two in order to make sure that the key shows are in the
right venues on the right nights. It's financially sensible to fill those
dates with shows in secondary markets when possible.
As for the South, we run into several problems. One is that none of those
markets have been particularly strong for Suzanne, either in terms of record
or ticket sales. For example, from the point of view of record sales,
Minneapolis is Suzanne's #15 sales market on 99.9F, having sold about 5,000
units there to date. Compare the sales numbers for the South: Miami
(3,826), Tampa (2,067), New Orleans (2,118). The Texas figures are somewhat
better -- Dallas (4,375), Houston (3,690), San Antonio (1,200), Austin
(1,542) -- but that leads to the other main issues: time and logistics.
Given that Suzanne has only a limited time for this tour -- we had to
allocate time to other markets, e.g., Europe -- we obviously had to
prioritize. Also, the expense of bringing this particular tour to markets in
which we could only play small venues, or to markets (e.g., Miami) that take
substantial time to get to and from, is just too problematic, i.e., we'd lose
too much money. On this tour Suzanne will be appearing with a full band
consisting of Mitchell Froom (keyboards), Pete Thomas (drums), Steve Donnelly
(guitar) and Mike Visceglia (bass). Even in our "big" markets, this tour
will break even at best.
I know all this explanation is not much in the way of consolation. You have
no idea how much Suzanne and I appreciate the effort some of you will
apparently be making to catch one or more of these shows. I want you to know
that we are cognizant of your concerns and gripes, and that Suzanne and I
will consider how to address them in the future. We certainly hope that this
album does well enough to enable Suzanne to do a more comprehensive tour next
year.
Thanks again on behalf of both of us for your continuing support.
With best regards,
Ron
Subj: French press
three articles in the French press:
-this week's "Le Nouvel Observateur": no photo, just a few lines where they
say that Suzanne's new album is great and will feature bossa-nova, jazz and
hip-hop rythms, that the mood is a bit like the ones Angelo Badalamenti
(Twin Peaks, Julie Cruise, last Marianne Faithfull album) makes, and that
there will be some oriental violins and Hammond organ... they say that
Vega still shines.
-this week's "Les Inrockuptibles" (rock magazine): a color picture where she
doesn't seem very comfortable. A few lines where they only say good things,
and they say that there will be Pete and Bruce Thomas at drums/percussions
and Tchad Blake at the guitar. They say that with the song 'Headshots' she
could even make a hit as big as 'Luka'. And they also say that after
coming in Paris this fall (October 4th from Eric) for an intimist concert
(does it mean acoustic?) she will make a big tour in the spring. (Maybe
she'll go to Florida then, Bob).
-This week's "L'Express". I don't have it but a friend will cut the page for
me: he told me it was a full page article with a color photo of Suzanne on
a sofa with a glass of champagne.
Just to let you know.
Besides, I'm amazed about the album being released in January in the UK. 4
more months! I think it doesn't make sense at all because the stations, and
TV channels won't wait this long, and so the English will hear and see her
new material in September and when the album is released, they won't feel
they need it anymore.
David.
Subj: Re: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
Hello everyone,
I just read the note from Ron Fierstein on the tour. I'd like to thank him
for providing this detailed explanation of the markets, logisitics, etc.
It really helped me to understand what goes into making the decisions.
(Thanks also to Eric for posting this.)
I may be prejudiced, but I do feel that the album sales "cut-off" from
#15 in Minneapolis of around 5,000 to Dallas (4,375) is cutting it
rather fine. If you add up the Texas numbers, plus throw in N.O., it
comes to around 11,000. Quite a substantial market to pass up, since
a concert in one TX venue would likely draw in fans from a large area.
>but that leads to the other main issues: time and logistics.
I suppose I can't argue on this one.
>I know all this explanation is not much in the way of consolation.
You are correct, sir. :(
>We certainly hope that this
Yes, me too. I'm sure there are quite a few others who feel the same way.
And I've got a few suggestions on markets and venues for that one, if it
happens! ;)
>Thanks again on behalf of both of us for your continuing support.
We appreciate your time and effort as well. Thanks again, Ron and Suzanne
et al. for your consideration, and as they say, "maybe next time" -
-Rob
----------------------------------
Subj: Re: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
Being a native Dallasite, I need to clear up a little misinformation.
At 06:16 PM 9/5/96 -0700, Max Headroom wrote:
In fact, Dallas and San Antonio are 270 miles apart. Granted Texas is a
large state. It is further to drive diagonally from the Gulf Coast north
west to the Panhandle than to drive from Dallas to Chicago. But concerts
in Dallas can attract people from within a 200 mile radius. I recently
saw Tori Amos in Dallas and helped a out a guy on the Net wanting directions
in Dallas after he arrived from Shreveport, LA, about 160 miles. Also
Dallas, Austin, Houston and San Antonio are within an hour of each other
by Southwest Airlines at reasonable prices, as is Little Rock, Oklahoma City,
and Tulsa. Neil Young is currently touring and if he comes to any of these
cities, I will certainly go.
>Besides, how many fans who now own the album will actualy go to shows?
What is this contention based on? We regularly draw 55,000 for stadium
acts like the Rolling Stones and 17,000 for other shows. The question of
how many people owning the album will go to the shows has nothing to do
with this being Texas. I have seen Suzanne in Dallas twice and believe me
she has a strong fan base and played to very full venues.
>Also, there must be deminshing returns; the farther you get from one city,
the
This may be true in some areas, but the Dallas/Fort Worth area is considered
a hub in the North Texas area and regularly attracts people from a wide
radius for entertainment and shopping and is a major travel hub because
of DFW Airport.
>Also, consider the LA area in California. The population of the five
counties
And Manhattan has 7 million people living in the same amount of space
as the DFW Airport. So acts play several nights in these cities but can still
sell out the same size show for one or two nights in Dallas. And we have
a lower cost of living and somewhat slower lifestyle than LA or Manhattan.
>Clearly, without even going into demographics, Suzanne has a better
In other words if you don't live on THE COAST, either east or west, you are
too rural to understand high brow entertainment like intelligent musicians
or theater. Your last sentence (with the big sky comes small artists) is
so elitist that I can't comment on it using words proper in mixed company.
We aren't all bowlegged cowboys spittin' chewin' tobacco on the ground.
Some of us even have college educations!
Stephen
Subj: Re: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
>>Clearly, without even going into demographics, Suzanne has a better
I didn't mean it as an insult, per se'. Just a fact. I have no special
affinity for the west coast; I was trying to make a point. If you live in a
place with fewer people, you're going to have to work harder to see the
artists you like. Especialy with someone like Ms. Vega, who doesn't exactly
demand the largest of crowds.
Max Headroom
"Never send a scary monster to do the work of an evil scientist!"
Subj: Re: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
At 09:22 PM 9/5/96 -0700, Max Headroom wrote:
>Max Headroom
I was being a little dramatic for effect, but it still just isn't true that
Dallas is too small to attract the big concerts. We have well over 2 million
people in the immediate metropolitan area and several hundred thousand more in
surrounding areas to draw an audience from. Acts like Suzanne Vega DO draw
big audiences and sell out. We have never had a problem attracting the big
acts. Even Springsteen played here on his solo acoustic tour. You are just
mistaken that Dallas cannot attract audiences for big name acts or smaller
acts like Suzanne, Natalie Merchant, Nanci Griffith, Lyle Lovett, Sheryl Crow,
and numerous others who play venues smaller than the 17,000 people acts. We
have several venues in the DFW area for these type acts with capacities of
several hundred to 3,000 and they regularly sell out.
........................................................
Subj: Re: Latest SV Tour Dates
Hi Eric. Thanks for all the info.
FYI - the Gene Autry/KSCA concert will be broadcast live, nationwide -
around 8PM Pacific - "check your local radio listings."
>September 19 In LA -- live broadcast over KSCA from Gene Autrey museum =
Subj: Re: Suzanne's Manager Replies to Tour Questions
Hello everyone,
Well, the comments about Texas shows (or lack thereof) seem to have sparked
a little conversation. If anyone still cares about this discussion, here
are a few more thoughts.
Max Headroom wrote:
How so? Yes, she can saturate Calif., and the L.A. area will always be a
prime market for introducing new material. However, if your objective is
to promote the album on a nationwide or worldwide basis, you shouldn't
simply ignore entire sections of the country, where you at least have a
foothold. Again, Suzanne *has* drawn large, enthusiastic crowds at the
shows she's played in Dallas, Houston, Austin, etc.
Max Headroom again:
Sorry, this sweeping generalization of a place with "fewer people," and
"wide open spaces" just doesn't wash. With regard to demographics, the
alternative (ugh) radio station / coffeehouse folk-club / 3000-seat venue
scene is alive and well in DFW/Houston/Austin, and 'smaller' acts do play
in them. I can name several radio stations that I'm sure would be glad
to host on-air appearances by Suzanne. Stephen Wiener's last post
summed it up quite nicely.
I accept Ron Fierstein's explanation of mediocre album/ticket sales in
these markets, and the time/logistical constraints they're forced to
deal with. However, as Eric posted earlier, not touring in these areas
can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy: Suzanne doesn't tour because the
albums don't sell well, because she doesn't tour, etc. I hope she will
do a more extensive tour next year, or at least some solo acoustic dates
in the 'smaller' markets.
-Rob
Please send your comments, suggestions, submissions to:
VegaNet
VegaNet@aol.com
Eric
Date: 96-08-17 03:24:14 EDT
From: bobking@gate.net (If you don't leave, I can't start)
Sender: owner-undertow@law.emory.edu
To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Date: 96-08-18 01:43:28 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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To: bobking@gate.net, undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Eric
Date: 96-08-19 10:18:46 EDT
From: rossc@slf.org
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Date: 96-08-20 00:41:10 EDT
From: bobking@gate.net (If you don't leave, I can't start)
Sender: owner-undertow@law.emory.edu
To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu, EricS10332@aol.com
>
> That's what's been confirmed *so far*...there'll be more to come, I am told.
>
> On the other hand, I'm not holding my breath on a Fort Lauderdale or Miami
> show... :(
Date: 96-08-20 03:00:58 EDT
From: djhamma@aloha.net (David J. Hammar)
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>Florida voters would vote for Ruby.
-- Dave H.
http://www.aloha.net/~djhamma
To: veganet@aol.com
Date: 96-08-27 11:02:17 EDT
Date: 96-08-29 17:30:19 EDT
From: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
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rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com
*any opinion expressed or information provided is my own and not that of
my employer*
Date: 96-08-30 03:03:06 EDT
From: bobking@gate.net (Robert King)
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To: EricS10332@aol.com
CC: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Is it a hood?
Is it a concept that's misunderstood?"
-- Home
Date: 96-08-30 03:37:33 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Date: 96-08-30 03:38:26 EDT
From: bobking@gate.net (Robert King)
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To: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
CC: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
Date: 96-08-30 03:58:30 EDT
From: psychdoc@netcom.com (beej)
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>tour to only these locations.
[snip]
> What were these decisions based on? Cost, logistics, demographics,
>results from the last tour, presumed fan base locations, album sales??
I'll guess that such decisions are based on perceived fan base
locations. And except for the concentration of Northeast dates
(where's she's from, close to home), her tour itinerary is not all
that odd - rightly or wrongly, lots of artists who tour in smaller
venues do both coasts and Chicago.
>a stop somewhere in TX or LA on the way back from the last scheduled
>concert in Ventura, CA on 11/22? Just an idea.
Has she played there before? If so, did fans show up? Does she sell a
lot of albums there? Does she get played on the radio? [hell, strike
that one - if we had to base tour schedules on airplay, Alanis
Morrisette would play everywhere every night :-)].
Date: 96-08-30 10:47:07 EDT
From: asl@umcs.maine.edu (Michael Reynolds)
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To: psychdoc@netcom.com (beej)
CC: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
waiting for nine objects (and the new REM)
Date: 96-08-30 10:54:30 EDT
From: nunki@netcom.com (nunki)
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Date: 96-08-30 11:09:12 EDT
From: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
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To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu, psychdoc@netcom.com
>I'll guess that such decisions are based on perceived fan base
>locations. And except for the concentration of Northeast dates
>(where's she's from, close to home), her tour itinerary is not all
>that odd - rightly or wrongly, lots of artists who tour in smaller
>venues do both coasts and Chicago.
>Has she played there before? If so, did fans show up? Does she sell a
>lot of albums there? Does she get played on the radio?
Date: 96-08-30 13:25:28 EDT
From: moeller@cis.ohio-state.edu (torsten moeller)
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Torsten.
From: rogovoy@berkshire.net (Seth Rogovoy)
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CC: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
> Attractions) after an Elvis show the other night. He said he'll be
> touring with Suzanne.
>
> Does anyone know who else will be in the band?
Mitchell Froom on keyboards. It's just a guess.
Date: 96-08-30 14:59:49 EDT
From: psychdoc@netcom.com (beej)
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Date: 96-09-05 07:57:30 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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Date: 96-09-05 17:44:04 EDT
From: EricS10332@aol.com
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========================================================
Date: 96-09-05 18:31:54 EDT
From: algranti@club-internet.fr (David Algranti)
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Maybe you have a bookshop near you with international press.
Date: 96-09-05 20:39:00 EDT
From: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
Sender: owner-undertow@law.emory.edu
To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu, EricS10332@aol.com
>Given that Suzanne has only a limited time for this tour -- we had to
>allocate time to other markets, e.g., Europe -- we obviously had to
>prioritize.
>album does well enough to enable Suzanne to do a more comprehensive tour next
>year.
rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com
*any opinion expressed or information provided is my own and not that of
my employer*
Date: 96-09-06 01:12:17 EDT
From: swiener@Onramp.NET (Stephen Wiener)
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________________________________________________________________________
>>I may be prejudiced, but I do feel that the album sales "cut-off" from
>>#15 in Minneapolis of around 5,000 to Dallas (4,375) is cutting it
>>rather fine. If you add up the Texas numbers, plus throw in N.O., it
>>comes to around 11,000. Quite a substantial market to pass up, since
>>a concert in one TX venue would likely draw in fans from a large area.
_________________________________________________________________________
>I doubt it. Texas is the second largest state in the US. Dallas and San
>Antonio are 400 miles apart.
>less fans from that city will attend.
>(Ventura, LA, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino) in Southern
California is
>about 15 million. That's more than the entire state of Texas!
And in 1:200th the
>area!
>chance of promoting her album by playing 5 shows in LA than 100 shows in
>Dallas. Also, remember, in South CA, you only need 1 radio station to reach
>the same amount as in Texas where you need at least 10. Sorry, all you wide
>open spaces folks. With the big sky comes small artists.
>Max Headroom
Date: 96-09-06 00:28:52 EDT
From: max7531@earthlink.net (Max Headroom)
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>>chance of promoting her album by playing 5 shows in LA than 100 shows in
>>Dallas. Also, remember, in South CA, you only need 1 radio station to reach
>>the same amount as in Texas where you need at least 10. Sorry, all you wide
>>open spaces folks. With the big sky comes small artists.
>>Max Headroom
>
>In other words if you don't live on THE COAST, either east or west, you are
>too rural to understand high brow entertainment like intelligent musicians
>or theater. Your last sentence (with the big sky comes small artists) is
>so elitist that I can't comment on it using words proper in mixed company.
>We aren't all bowlegged cowboys spittin' chewin' tobacco on the ground.
>Some of us even have college educations!
>
>
>Stephen
Date: 96-09-06 08:01:36 EDT
From: swiener@Onramp.NET (Stephen Wiener)
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To: max7531@earthlink.net (Max Headroom)
CC: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
>I didn't mean it as an insult, per se'. Just a fact. I have no special
>affinity for the west coast; I was trying to make a point. If you live in a
>place with fewer people, you're going to have to work harder to see the
>artists you like. Especialy with someone like Ms. Vega, who doesn't exactly
>demand the largest of crowds.
Stephen Wiener |"I was walkin' down Main Street
Dallas, TX | Not the sidewalk but Main Street
swiener @onramp.net | Dodgin' traffic with flyin' feet
| That's how good I felt..."
| Neil Young "Music Arcade"
...........................................................
Date: 96-09-06 11:02:42 EDT
From: psychdoc@netcom.com (beej)
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To: EricS10332@aol.com, undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
>
>
> plus in-store at Virgin Megastore at 5 PM
Date: 96-09-06 12:29:46 EDT
From: rwalters@lafayette.unocal.com (Rob Walters)
Sender: owner-undertow@law.emory.edu
To: undertow@serv4.law.emory.edu
>Suzanne has a better
>chance of promoting her album by playing 5 shows in LA than 100 shows in
>Dallas.
>I was trying to make a point. If you live in a
>place with fewer people, you're going to have to work harder to see the
>artists you like. Especialy with someone like Ms. Vega, who doesn't exactly
demand the largest of crowds.
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