To get us started with our new business focus, I interviewed Christie Welch of the Social Butterfly Entertainment Network, a music production company here in the DFW area. We discussed her company and how they view their role in the local music community.
Brian: First off Christie when did you found the Social Butterfly Entertainment Network (SBEN)?
Christie: It has been pretty recently, just back in June of 2012.
Brian: Wow, that isn't that long ago. What was your inspiration for starting the company?
Christie: I saw a depressing view as I was walking adventourously through Deep Ellum one day. I saw old art that was abandoned and left behind by bars, clubs, lofts... the people who had resided and businessed in Deep Ellum. Standing there I realized the Deep Ellum had "slopped" down to Dead Ellum. I am a thriving individual and LOVE art and music. I want to start a revolution here... an uprising of the art and music industry through music. I see in California, Florida and New York that they thrive on their art and music scenes. Dallas is in a position to make that happen, but I realized that it was missing something. It was missing a sense of unity within the community... that we needed to work together. I would like to change the attitudes of what could be the best artistic community ever. That is the what and the why we do it for SBEN.
Brian: Wow, that's a great answer.
Christie: Well, it's the truth.
Brian: Most great responses are. You know I feel similarly about Denton. There is so much talent that doesn't seem to be pulling in the same direction. It would seem to me within the metroplex there is as much if not more talent than in the areas you mentioned. What do you have in mind to make that happen?
Christie: Right now we are booking and scouting out talent. We are creating events to bring local talent together so that they can work collaboratively. Most people have been hit hard by the realities of today's economy and by pulling together we can make things happen. It's in my blood to do this kind of work. When we work together we can make these events happen... we can fundraise... we can rise up and bring JOY to the community. It's all about working together, talking each other up and supporting one another. It's perfectly Ok to work with other musicians and make new sounds, it's Ok to mesh with other bands.
Brian: That's definitely a good way to be. Speaking of music you're a musician yourself. Tell me a little bit about what you do?
Christie: I play percussion and backing vocals for Bum Lucky. I am the featured vocalist in 2-3 songs. As a vocalist, I am known for being able to jump into anyone's sessions. I have diverse tastes and my solo material is mainly reggae blues/ lounge vibe... conscious vibes. I work with a guitarist and a bass player and are looking for a drummer.
Brian: Ah, the elusive drummer. Thank you so much Christie for speaking with me. Is there anything else you would like the readers to know?
Christie: Peace, Love and Unity through art and music...the way we feel... I think we can all do it.
Brian: Awesome, thanks again Christie.
Well, it's good to be back in the saddle again. Looking ahead we will be tackling the topic publishing in the ever changing world of music. Expect more than a couple of pieces surrounding this topic, which I know is on the mind of every songwriter out there. Take some time and check out Bum Lucky and of course we are honored when you give the author a listen and when so inspired download some of his own compositions. Cheers to a wonderful and prosperous New Year.
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