AUDIBILITIES

By Emmet Robinson

King Street Recording Company

Volume 89, Winter 2026

610-647-4341    kingstreetrecord@aol.com

How It Looks From Here

 We live in interesting times, where the only constant we can depend on is change.

In the early days of the American recording industry, for example, songwriters and musicians eager for fame and fortune would seek recording contracts with major record companies as their pathway to success.

In a related effort, talent scouts would scour venues where live music was being performed and gauge the levels of audience responses. When they found acts that were popular and seemed to have potential, they would offer them recording contracts. Once someone signed, the company would invest in the new artist by providing support in a variety of ways. Although not every act would go on to be successful, there were more winners than losers, and record companies would grow to be large, wealthy and powerful – all by making a investments of time and money with no guarantee of a return.

That was then.

Over the years, the major labels became increasingly risk averse, less willing to gamble on unknowns having no proven record of success. Instead, they began looking for guaranteed winners, expecting every new release to sell a million copies.

Seeing this trend developing, a growing number of musicians and songwriters began forming their own record companies to produce and sell their records. Among the first independents was Takoma records¹, founded in 1959 by guitarist John Fahey and attorney Ed Denson.

Records were sold at live performances, and by mail order, with advertisements placed in popular music publications.

Many other musicians and songwriters followed their example.

This independent movement has continued to grow, with yearly sales reaching $10.4 billion in 2024. ²

Want a piece of the action? Let’s talk. 610-647-4341.

¹ www.discogs.com

² web sources

 At the Microphone

Voices

Retired judge John R Bailey has been back in the studio with a new addition to his popular blog. John’s guest this time was Michael DiCindio, a criminal defense attorney with offices in West Chester, PA.

The topic this time: Bail – a means of assuring the court system that you’ll show up for your hearing.

In this lively conversation you’ll learn about the different categories of bail, how the amount is established and paid for, how exceptions to the rule may be made, and more.

Both gentleman being experts in their respective fields, the conversation flowed easily and energetically to provide a growing core of listeners an enjoyably informative listening experience.

For more comprehensive coverage about Pennsylvania law, more podcasts on a variety of topics are available at www.fromthebench.com.

For expert advice on a criminal matter, call Michael DiCindio at 610-430-3535.

Musica Esoterica

Ethan’s latest recording session included songs in Latin, Italian and one selection sounding very much like Russian. I’m always amazed at how he’s able to master other languages for his singing.

At the Controls

Converting vintage analog audio to a more current format can be both challenging and entertaining.

I’m currently restoring a live recording of a concert performed in 1959, and having a good time in the process. The highly skilled musicians entertained a large enthusiastic audience with a wide variety of songs in English, French and Spanish with occasional detours into a few esoteric dialects.

Their presentation was powerful, and their humorous commentary made me laugh out loud.

The challenging part was in removing the hundreds of tiny intrusive sounds that were not part of the music. Each one had to be located through careful earphone listening, then gently attenuated to below the level of audibility. Tedious? Yup! When finished, the end result will be well worth the effort

Special Free Offer

 Do You Play Music in Coffeehouses, Bars or Clubs?

In presenting your music to the public, you have two choices:

1: The usual level of attendance and applause, or

2:  larger, more enthusiastic crowds – and higher CD sales.

If the Choice Two seems more appealing, ask for your FREE copy of Stagecraft, my entertaining article on everything to do after the emcee says your name.

It’s fresh, original, and based on my 50+ years of experience in performing in coffeehouses, bars, restaurants, concert halls and TV studios.

Stagecraft spells out those little things that few think of, but make the difference between the winners and the wannabes in stage presentation.

Give yourself a competitive advantage. Ask for your copy of Stagecraft today!

kingstreetrecord@aol.com

(Did I mention that it’s free?)

For Sale!
1963 Martin D-28 Acoustic guitar
A professional instrument for the serious musician
Excellent Condition
With new plush-lined case
$8500