music promotion model - 97 radio
out in the crazy business of music, there is simply no end to the number of people and companies that are willing to come along for the ride (or get a cut up front). for the performer out in that space for the first time, the offers are incredible, the incentives tempting, and the benefits questionable at best.
with that cautionary word, and based on a tip from a friend, i introduce for my review and your enjoyment: 97 radio. everything here is my opinion and speculation, based solely on the 97 radio website. i encourage you to dig deeper on your own time.
97 radio is there to help you. they say so right up front.
No matter what direction and goals you want to achieve with your music, whether it be pursuing Distribution, a Record Label Deal, Clubs, Venues, Booking Agents, Print Media, or all of the above, Radio Airplay is a necessity.
forget for a moment the clearchannel program-director-and-concert-business reality of radio in the united states today. forget that we’re into new music models and new ways of doing business. forget that everything that you might know about this business of music is up for grabs. forget all that for now. loyal readers might remember this:
my best advice for anyone in this business of music: if someone tells you they have the formula, that they know all there is to know to make your music career fly, they’re full of crap. and if they sell you a formula (at a seminar, a class, in a bar, at a coffee shop, or in the plush corner office of a shiny record label office tower) without knowing anything about you, your music, your audience, your goals, your skills, where you’ve come from, and what all this crazy stuff means to you, then just run. run, run away. chances are you can’t afford that formula.
ok, that’s the general warning. now we get into the specifics with this “you need radio airplay and we’re gonna get it for you” business model.
97 radio offers four “levels” of “campaign” - from just $597 all the way to $25,097.
at the entry level ($597) you get 20 “submissions” to local radio, national radio and record labels, or 60 total. that’s $9.95 per submission. at the top level ($25,097), you get 300 submissions to each of those, plus another 100 to booking agents, management companies and attorneys. a grand total of 1200 submissions, or $20.91 per submission. obviously, if you go for the expensive package, the submission process is more expensive. could be any number of reasons for that, but this scale isn’t quite right.
ok, anyway, you’ve signed up and paid up, and now you’re looking for some results. maybe they found someone who loves your stuff and is ready to throw some weight around behind you. then there’s another catch…
We will have these labels coming to us wanting you!
you pay up front (that’s the retainer they emphasize so much), and they get to control your access to the results - apparently all the calls route through their offices. but you really don’t have anything to worry about, because 97 radio offers you a bold ALL CAPS guarantee!
IF AT THE END OF THIS TERM YOU DO NOT RECEIVE AN OFFER FROM A RECORD LABEL WE WILL REFUND YOUR CAMPAIGN FEE IN FULL.
i’ll offer you a contract with my record label right now. here are the terms: i own you, your name, your band name and all the music you write or perform for the next 10 years, plus all the music you’ve written or performed at any time in the past, in any format. i control your distribution, make all artistic and management decisions for you. you work with the studios and technicians and session musicians i tell you to work with. i get to keep the first $250,000 you make, plus all my expenses on your behalf and you get 7.5% of everything you make after that. i keep the accounting records, and i’ll tell you when you should expect a check. oh, and critically important, if you breach this contract in any way or attempt to terminate it during the 10 years, you owe me $250,000 plus my expenses. there. you got an offer from a record label.
the important lesson is that a guarantee to get you an offer is no guarantee at all.
so far, none of this is really unique to 97 radio - there are companies out there doing this all the time, in one form or another.
but i do have to pick a particular nit with 97 radio - if you’re considering working with these people - if you’re seriously considering letting them represent you to “labels, radio stations, retail shops, clubs, and venues” - then carefully consider how their use of language might impact your first impression with these industry bigshots. if they can’t get their own website right, what are they going to do with your introduction to sony?
97 radio guarantee’s that we will get your music to top record company executives, from major and independent labels, that will sign your project.
97 radio has developed there system over years of working with radio stations and record retailers.
just two examples - apparently one thing they don’t guarantee is proper use of an apostrophe or using the correct homophone… it’s just entirely painful to read through all the missing words, improper use and other general language abuse, so i’ll let you find the rest on your own.
i should also say that i don’t know how 97 radio actually does their business - this is all based on their website. they could be completely legitimate and just can’t express themselves on the web. i don’t know, but the information available on the web should send up so many red flags and bring to mind so many questions that if it were me, i’d run. fast. but you’re not me, and they do invite you to ask questions, so do it. i hope you get the right answers before you sign that $25,097 check.
i really don’t mean to pick on 97 radio in particular, there are hundreds of these things out there, it’s just that they approached someone i know, and he deserves a few minutes of my critical analysis. the rest of you just came along for the ride…. i hope it was useful.
update (2004.07.09): for more on the people involved in this, check out this later post and, most particularly, the comments attached to it.
Great…there go my chances with RCA.
The guarantee HAS to be good…it’s in ALL CAPS, DAMMIT!
Comment by Brock — January 11, 2004 @ 9:45 pm
Gotta love this tongue-in-cheek analysis … first time I laughed throughout my entire investigation of 97 Radio, unless you count the time that I was told Carlo Oddo was the SMARTER of the two brothers!
Now, let me break down the “facts” as I have. We can even step away from the 97 Radio page for a moment or two …
Nobody, but nobody, can guarantee that you’ll get a record deal … unless it’s the A&R guy at the label. Of course, if they OWN the record label it’s an easy bet you’ll get signed. 97 Radio does state in their contract that any deal on the table is a good deal. This means that if a label says, “We’ll sign these guys for a thousand bucks,” it’s a deal on the table. There goes that refund … funny thing is the label that approaches you is also owned by 97 Radio. Sound fishy?
The next point would be the payout for a basic package … $597 seems reasonable, right? Not when you consider the cost of packaging and shipping your own CD out to 60 addresses around the US at about $4 a pop. Where do you find the info on where to send this stuff? The same place Oddo did. There is a directory of radio stations available at any public library. Cost? Free if you have a library card, free to read and $0.15 a page to Xerox if you don’t. The $25,000 campaign? I can make you rich and famous for $25,000 … send me your money and I’ll show you!
A little Internet research goes a long way. Nearly everything known to man (and some not) is available on the web. Hmmm … nothing but bad press here. It may be a conspiracy, but I doubt it!
The fact is that 97 Radio is an extension of Talent 2K, a company who lost their BBB license due to very bad business tactics. They come in and drill artists, whom they’ve never even heard, for their money to shop them all around and get them signed. They use all kinds of ego-tapping maneuvers to get artists to fall for their line of sh*t. After they get the money 97 Radio basically drops communications and goes to the next level.
When an artist has called in to find out what their status is, Deftone Records (or another pay-for-play label) comes in and offers a deal. Now there is no refund, but Carlo Oddo owns the label … AND 97 Radio AND Talent 2k. Some artists have even paid Deftone to “get on their label” and ended up in the same boat they were in … just sinking on a larger financial anchor.
My research to date is contained in two articles at http://www.garageradio.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=517 with a link to the follow-up at the bottom. I have also been asked by a couple of State Attorneys not to release any of the other info I have per a judge’s orders. I do have some new developments from the artists I’ve interviewed as well as folks close to the whole situation (eyewitnesses) that I can let go of … just email me!
Good Luck,
John
Comment by John Foxworthy — January 11, 2004 @ 11:02 pm
97Radio is a total scam. Don’t even talk to them.
Comment by mike — January 14, 2004 @ 12:30 am
97 radio is a scam. They offered us a tour for $500 and it never happened. They lie and do nothing more than steal. They will take your money and do absolutley nothing for your band. Beware and never ever do business with them. There are no tours, they are fake. These are two guys that live with their Mom in Sun City, AZ. (17220 N Boswell Blvd #25 Sun City AZ 85373) Their real names are Carlo K. Oddo and Michael Anthony Oddo. They will do nothing but give your band heartache.
Comment by mike hayes — January 21, 2004 @ 11:22 am
If you’ve had dealings with 97radio or they contact you about going on a spring break tour to Fla. or any other tour report them to the BBB http://www.phoenix.bbb.org/ The tour is definitely fake and will not happen, it’s a ploy to get your money and they won’t give it back. To file a complaint with the DA go to http://www.ag.state.az.us These cons must be stopped.
Comment by JA — January 21, 2004 @ 11:39 pm
our band has been ripped off by 97 radio, we were getting suspicious when it was very hard to get in contact with them, we never heard from them and our 6 mos was running out. they claimed we were offered deals from deftone records, caprice international and jetspeed records, all lable that are linked to there scam on the web.
we want our 1000 back because they did nothing they said they would. any bands who would like to share info with us, please e-mail our band torrancemail@yahoo.com
bands should not be screwed by these losers!
Comment by gary — January 22, 2004 @ 8:44 pm
John Foxworthy is a liar as well as his brother mike, john hides behind him as an indie writer for garageradio.com. contact any label in the industry and see if they know garageradio they will say no.
Comment by boss — January 24, 2004 @ 8:08 pm
boss - perhaps on your next visit, you will have something of more substance to contribute than generally unsubstantialed, ad hominem personal attacks.
here, i’ll even give you a clue: perhaps you could explain why it matters if “any label in the industry” knows garageradio.
Comment by roj — January 24, 2004 @ 10:58 pm
Well said, roj. I can respond, but I’m bored with the music world version of the Jerry Springer Show. Besides, my only response sorta used all of the wit I have for today.
I’m a firm believer in honesty and respect among peers in any community and the indie music community doesn’t have the time, patience or money to waste on these idiotic mud fights. I stand behind the research and information in my articles and will continue to present objective, fact-based pieces as long as I can still type.
Thanx,
John
Comment by John Foxworthy — January 25, 2004 @ 10:48 pm
i’ll just continue to wander around the net and try not to giggle too much when i run into this sort of website…
Comment by roj — January 26, 2004 @ 4:03 am
Yes, I was scammed too. I did manage to raise the biggest stink i could until they refunded my cash, but still felt like a gullible A-hole. Not a word they say is true.
The only part i can’t figure out is how they swallow the 800 line expenses, Fedex packaging, cd burning, bio writing, etc., and still make cash. They must be taking in a LOT of bands.
Courage, folks! Don’t be desperate. We all do dumb stuff when we are.
Comment by philip — January 26, 2004 @ 6:39 pm
It’s because they really don’t do all of that. Those are lies. All they do is send one cd to the band itself. It’s real cheap looking with a paper label. There has yet to be a band get signed with these guys help. You know they would put them on their website if so and there is no one. No band has ever went on any of these tours either. That’s the part that pisses me off the most cause most of the bands sign on for that, not the demo submissions, and it’s a lie. You tell everyone your going on tour, take time off work, keep your busy schedule free for those couple of weeks, pass on real paying gigs, then when you don’t go (nobody does) you look and feel like a dumb ass cause you got duped. These guys are committing fraud even though in some cases it’s verbal it’s still fraud and they will be gotten soon. It’s misrepresentation and it’s a crime. Everyone who’s been had be sure to report them to the DA http://www.ag.state.az.us and to the bbb http://www.phoenix.bbb.org/ Please e-mail me if you’ve been had by these con men. I can forward you tons of e-mail from them promising things that they never came through with and also dozens of others who they’ve screwed. I would like your info as well. If they have contacted you and your investigating them now and read this, let it be a warning. Do not give them money! It very much truely is a scam! To their credit it is a good one, but still against the law and against good ethics. contact me mikejhayes@msn.com
Comment by MH — January 27, 2004 @ 1:20 pm
No MH.
I went through this with them. I spent many many hours on their 800 line to try to complain. They paid for every minute of that. Also, i received a reasonably-professional looking bio that they wrote from scratch,printed, etc. perhaps it’s a template, dunno, but it did seem to actually be about my music. also, the cd of my stuff was less crappy than you describe. i was one of the earliest artists though, about a year ago. i’m sure that they spent this cash. i also received FedExes from them, which also don’t grow on trees. i got my 5 hundy back after much bitching, so they’re out at least a hundred bux on me. i guess they just play the numbers.
Comment by philip — February 1, 2004 @ 11:36 pm
philip - in the interest of providing more perspective on 97 radio, i’ve let your comment remain, but in the future, if you feel compelled to hide behind “noneofyerbeezwax” address, don’t bother typing.
Comment by roj — February 2, 2004 @ 3:40 am
Just want to thank everyone here. They contacted my band on Saturday 1-31-2004. Told us all the stuff you wrote about, and gave us until thursday 2-5-2004 to send the money for the florida spring break tour. Sounded good, but thought I better check it out. Glad I did!!!
Comment by Jerms — February 2, 2004 @ 4:49 pm
You are on of the very lucky few Philip. Consider yourself very fortunate to come out of it clean. Most don’t. Sounds like you just signed on for the promotions anyway. You know what your getting into there. We signed on for the tour. If these tours were real why don’t they say anything on their website about them? Don’t you think they would be proud to be putting on such wonderful tours? These guys are fucking con artist. I’ve been had and I’ve talked to dozens of others who have been had for a lot more than us even. If you don’t believe me then go right on ahead and send them money. (or contact me and I’ll send you more info)
As far as the cd they sent me Philip, yes it was shit. I wouldn’t give it to anyone much less someone in the music industry. How do you know what was sent out Fed Ex? I never got a bio either, although as I’ve said before time and time again we never wanted any of that anyway, only the tour. The tour was a ploy to get our cash. DO NOT SEND THEM MONEY!!!! IT IS A SCAM!!!!
I’ve talked to many many important people in the industry that say these guys are frowned upon so that says a lot about them as well. They are not even respected by the people they say they submit demos to. 97radio sucks.
Comment by MH — February 3, 2004 @ 7:36 am
jerms we could have went on tour together hahahaha.
we should fuckin book the tour ourself. anyone around the nj pa area who wants to go on the “97radio sukcs my balls tour” contact me and we could set up shows in eachothers areas and run this this the way it should be.
ps if aynone wants to send me 1200 ($200 a band memeber for no aparent reason that would rule)
AIM: metalxxxmike
Comment by metal mike — February 4, 2004 @ 1:01 am
better yet, all our bands should book a tour to 17220 N Boswell Blvd #25 in Sun City and give these jerkoffs their due
Comment by andy — February 5, 2004 @ 1:48 am
I’ve been watching this thread and I see few counter-productive measures taking place. First, I see the bad habit of bashing the company … while I understand the anger, I think it more volatile than helpful in the cause. Also, posting basically anon messages produces doubt and cynicism.
I propose an organized legal battle with these guys, but only because I’ve been in this since last year … about 7 months. Currently Oddo is launching a mud campaign that makes me laugh more than worry, but he’s basically shoveling more sh*t. His tour that starts in Feb of 2004 has changed to Apr of 2004. Did I say HIS tour? He still contends that he has no dealings with 97 Radio, yet sends me email that implies threats regarding it from Talent 2K. I think I’ve been right all along, but I’ll leave that up to y’all to decide.
My mission at this point, is to get the bands together and file a lawsuit against this company in the hopes of some kind of refund. Let’s put the bashfest aside and dothis constructively.
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
Roadrash@garageradio.com
Comment by John Foxworthy — February 9, 2004 @ 12:30 am
Why would they send a contract to sign then….we got one sent to us for the tour….now couldn’t that be brought to court if it didnt go through? I dont know why they would have a contract for something bogus….it would screw them since it is a document…proof of what they promise for your cost.
Comment by Dave DiSarro — February 9, 2004 @ 4:22 pm
My band and I have sent in our money already and it’s been taken out of our accounts. I felt like 97 Radio was legit but after reading all this I really don’t know what i got myself and my bandmates in to. ***We were only supposed to pay 600, things got mixed up and an extra 200 was sent by the bassist, and now they have 800 and haven’t called me back when i asked them to give us 200 back…***
Comment by Jeff Lee — February 10, 2004 @ 4:36 pm
Hey,
My band(www.strideforstride.tk)got the spring break florida bull shit as well. Our deadline however was the 12th of feb. There bull shit doesnt even remain constant from band to band. If you remember, a few years ago and A and R company Talent2k was expsed as a fraud. 97 radio is just an extension of Talent2k, check them out and youll find that they have Identicle “Terms and Agreements”. Strangely enough, 97 radio claims that they are not affiliated with talent2k in any way, check the WHOIS? on both web sites and you will find they are registered under the same names…FUCKING SCAM!! Thanks for the help, you guys saved my band $800.
Comment by Mike Flenniken — February 11, 2004 @ 3:18 pm
Dave,
Anyone can offer you a contract. The verbiage can be arranged so that their butts are covered regardless of the outcome of the deal. The attorneys I’ve spoken with tell me the contract is terribly written and geared towards the more ignorant person in mind. Most bands don’t consult a lawyer and those that do, it’s been reported, have had several re-writes done to the agreement … after which 97 Radio doesn’t want to deal with them.
Also, a contract doesn’t necessarily protect you from fraud. It’s difficult to sue someone in small claims court from outside of their state. The expense of traveling to Arizona, lodging, car rentals, etc. outweigh the return … even though you could essentially sue for those things as well. Most bands don’t have the time or money to do this. So all you’re left with is reporting them to the BBB (and they obviously don’t care) or the DA, in which case you have to prove fraud to get any action. The DA won’t even act unless there are several reports against the party. Be it $800 or $1800 it’s still a misdemeanor in pretty much every state.
My point is that a contract in a case like this is basically worthless. It’s used as a tool for 97 Radio to combat any apprehensions the bands may have … to make them efel more secure about spending the cash. Hey, once they have your money it’s up to you to deal with it. At least you have credit card protection to fall back on, but who pays the CC company after they spent the money?
John Foxworthy
Comment by John Foxworthy — February 12, 2004 @ 10:27 pm
Holy shit! I am so glad I found this place. My band was contacted by Deftone Records yesterday, and we were all very excited about it. I was supposed to call some dude in the “label” today, but now that I’ve read this thread, i dont think i willl be wasting my time and money (whatever little I have) on that. Thanks for the 411.
Comment by Erik — February 17, 2004 @ 10:18 am
thanks to everyone that’s contributed their thoughts and information here….
we’re just trying to do a little something good.
Comment by roj — February 18, 2004 @ 4:11 pm
For those of you that have come across this thread for info on 97 Radio, Talent 2K or Deftone Records … or if you have already paid them and are seeking a refund I have put together a comprehensive “Recovery Package” to help direct you to the proper agencies for complaints and charges. This is a list of numbers and web addresses to file complaints and charges against 97 Radio and T2K. While we can sue, it helps
to have records with the official agencies in the region and federally. If you’ve already taken these steps, then disregard. Otherwise please make your complaints. Even though 97 Radio is closed, they claim that they’re still “honoring” old clients and contracts.
Better Business Bureau:
This is the obvious one, but some have still not called. Also, I’m receiving reports that the BBB claims are being answered with a ton of lies, so be detailed and specific. You can also contest 97 Radio’s response.
WWW: http://www.phoenix.bbb.org
Email: info@phoenix.bbb.org
Phone: (602)264-1721
Fax: (602)263-0997
4428 N. 12th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014 -4585
Contact: Julie Glosser
Phoenix DA:
This has to be done statically. The AZ DA will not take reports over the phone for consumer complaints. Again, be verbose and ready to provide proof when making your statements.
Online Complaint Form:
http://www.attorneygeneral.state.az.us/consumer/complaint_instructions_eng.html
OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
Consumer Information and Complaints
1275 W. Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007-2926
Telephone: (602)542-5763
outside of the Phoenix Metro Area 1-800-352-8431
Credit and Debit Card Charges:
Your Credit/Debit card is protected from fraud by the bank or the credit card company. There are a few of you that have disputed Credit Card charges and gotten a refund. There will be a Toll-Free number to call on the back of your card. The banks I’ve called say the standard turnaround is 10 business days.
Federal Charges (Internet):
Now, this is a pretty heavy-duty one, but there is an agency that handles exactly this sort of fraud. The IFCC (Internet Fraud Complaint Center) is in league with the FBI and they have a specific division for this type of fraud. You may also call your regional FBI office (yes, you have one) for more info.
IFCC Home Page: http://www.ifccfbi.gov/index.asp
Non-delivery of Goods/Services info:
http://www.ifccfbi.gov/requirements/nondelivery.asp
File a complaint: http://www.ifccfbi.gov/cf1.asp
Federal Charges (Mail):
If you mailed a check or did any kind of business with this company via US Postal Service it falls under the realm of mail fraud. This is a little more time consuming and has to go through the Postmaster General’s office, but it provides a solid level of documentation.
File a Complaint:
https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/fraud/MailFraudComplaint.htm
Postal Inspectors’ info: https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/
Other complaint Avenues:
Contact your Sheriff or State Police for information on their High-Tech
Crime Division.
If you’re interested in filing suit with the rest of the folks who haven’t been reimbursed and want to see an end to this saga email me: roadrash@garageradio.com
Make sure your complaints are detailed and you have hard copy to back them
up. Hope this helps.
John F. Foxworthy III
Chief Editor, Garage Radio
http://www.garageradio.com
Comment by John Foxworthy — February 18, 2004 @ 4:27 pm
My band was offered the Spring Break tour back in Decemeber. They gave us until the end of the month to pay. Our manager contacted one of the guys there and asked for a tour schedule. He said to call him on his cell phone to get them, we never did. After reading everything I agree this is a scam. I’m very glad we decided not to go through with this. Thanks
Comment by David — February 19, 2004 @ 11:34 pm
They 97 radio arre trying to get us to buy into this formula. They just dont’ know that wickedness pays no profit. The good thing we decline even though they persist. I can offer a distribution deal we have EMI we our independent/ Successful and will be continue successfully under the hands of almighty GOD. No were no a religiuos label but an entity wsho CARES about the small guys we made mistakes and we can say were sorry and give you BACK yours! But 97 Radio is a company who just hustle and no nothihg about the game of players. I can sign get sign and promo/radio track retail track and any day. I feel were bless to have a God who looks out for his servants what is his truly is upfront business.All you procreative sources hear this from the man. It not worth it please do not throw your hard earning money away. If a major label independent label wants to hear you they will.
I have a club venues here in the Bay area give me a Hollar email us at ihpmedia@aol. We can talk get you some exposure. I all so work with cc/ and Soul Patrol.
Pay attention learn be carefull need help just HOLLAR!
Jerry J.
California Flight
Comment by Jerry J. — February 20, 2004 @ 5:25 pm
I Could be more eloquent, but … HUH?
Comment by John Foxworthy — February 24, 2004 @ 12:30 am
no problem. i’ll translate for you…
“god doesn’t like 97 radio either”
Comment by roj — February 24, 2004 @ 12:45 am
Wow… As with so many of the other posts on here, I too was contacted by Deftone Records about a week ago. I was pretty pumped up about the whole thing, but after doing my research, I realized these guys are a bunch of crap. I feel like calling them up anyway and fucking with them. What a bunch of bastards.
Comment by Mo — February 24, 2004 @ 4:45 pm
OK … you got me there … I’m wiping tears from my eyes and typing at the same time. Anyway, I wanted to drop a caution notice here.
There is a new chapter in the series, but it’s not confirmed. This is more a heads up to anyone who may be contacted by this company, which is run by Oddo’s “ex” employees. The company is called Capitol Imaging Group and they run two programs: AlternativeSpin and RapVibe.
Roj … you can have more fun with a breakdown of the web site on this one … there are more contradictions than the Bible … http://www.alternativespin.com
Anyway, it’s my firm belief that 97 Radio’s closing was inevitable and I’m just a convenient excuse, but the troubling thing is that this new program may be the reason they did … read up and tell me if you can see similarities! I have just released an article at: http://www.garageradio.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=744
Comment by John Foxworthy — February 25, 2004 @ 5:48 am
These fucking assholes conduct their business at 17220 Boswell Blvd. #230 Sun City, AZ 85373
Comment by mh — February 26, 2004 @ 1:44 pm
I was just contacted by Deftone records this week…they dropped a contract on me for one year, to make one album, produced by deftone, and an initial 5,000 copies pressed and packaged (for which we pay 10%) of the costs! So I looking into it…what’s the catch?
Comment by kyle — February 27, 2004 @ 10:05 am
I recently received an email from Deftone Records but they list an address of 100 Park Ave. NY, NY. The contact person is Dominick Angeline. I believe they obtained my information from a band site called localbands.net There is nothing listed for this address under the BBB. After reading the controversial stories about this company, I’ll pass. Thanks for the info.
Comment by JC — March 5, 2004 @ 5:11 pm
Me and my band, hollowpoint, got scammed by these assholes too. These guys better get what they deserve. To everyone who got scammed by these fuckers, remember this. Don’t give up your dreams. These guys did get the first laugh, be we all as a whole will get the last.
Comment by Anthony — March 7, 2004 @ 2:55 am
Hello all … ’tis me again. I spoke with Carlo Oddo on Sunday 3/7/04 at around 8:45 MT. He “promised” me that all of the bands who were duped in the Tour and the other 97 Radio stuff will get paid back … eventually.
In this conversation I also let him know that none of the procedings against him would stop until he started paying up. I just want to let anyone who reads here know that I’m still fighting for you, I’m not going away and as Anthony put it “we as a whole” can see some justice. Feel free to email me anytime and I will provide you with my phone #.
I’d also like to announce that because of this scam and a few others I’ve investigated I felt compelled to get the ball rolling on a new organization. It’s called L.A.A.W.W. (League of Advocates for Artists World Wide). We’re at http://www.laaww.org. It’s new and the site is under construction, but feel free to visit and email me with any input!
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
roadrash@garageradio.com
Comment by John Foxworthy — March 8, 2004 @ 11:37 pm
I’ll believe it when I see it. He told me the same thing long ago. He’s a fucking liar and a thief and I don’t think he has any intention of returning any funds. Carlo and Michael Oddo belong in prison and I’ll continue to push until they are.
Comment by mh — March 9, 2004 @ 4:55 pm
I’m in a band called Crash Landing in Shakopee, MN we play in the twin
cities quite a bit. We just got screwed over by these guys in January. We
were gonna do international radio play through them along with a tour,
nothing ever happened. We signed contracts and paid them some money, then
the phone calls stopped and could not get a hold of them.
I have talked to many people in the business about this, and I have been
told to contact the General Attorney in Arizona (maybe we can get a class
action lawsuit or something)
Mike Schmidt
Crash Landing
Comment by Mike Schmidt — March 15, 2004 @ 3:31 pm
Here’s one I need to pass along … Carlo Oddo has committed to pay back all the bands duped in the 97 Radio tour scam, but I say everyone needs to email and get your cash back. Carlo Oddo told me in a phone conversation that all the bands would be paid, but he has to do a few a week, because he doesn’t have the money. He has set up an email address for refunds:
refunds97radio@aol.com
Contact him and ask for your money back. I have some major media (can’t let the cat out yet, but very soon) following this and there is an article slated for next month.
I’d like to hear the responses to your emails, so FWD them to me please, please, PLEASE!!!
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
Comment by John Foxworthy — March 18, 2004 @ 7:14 pm
He’s a liar. I e-mail that refund address one week ago and still nothing. Everyone needs to continue with their efforts to prosecute these con artist. Report them to the FBI and media. Don’t call off the dogs by any means. He is just trying to buy more time by saying he will refund. He has absolutley no intention of giving money back. That is not what criminals do and that is what these bastards are. You can’t believe a word that comes out of his shit mouth. We will get them. We are very close so have faith.
Comment by mh — March 22, 2004 @ 9:56 am
I think a well deserved “Thank You” is in order for Jeff Foxworthy and all is efforts and suggestions with regard to the 97Radio, T2K, Deftone Records fraud. Jeff has been instrumental (no pun intended) in identifying this scam, their techniques and its perpetrators, as well as organizing the efforts to bring charges against them and seek financial retribution.
I think all persons affected by these con-artists should listen to Jeff’s strategy for retribution, and follow his lead. Moreover, I feel Jeff should be granted de facto “Spokesperson” title of the group of bands/artists seeking damages, there is a much better chance of receiving some sort of monetary reward and having these people prosecuted with a single, appointed voice than a 1,000 different voices screaming at once.
Again, thank you Jeff for all your hard work and dedication to this cause.
Regards,
Barry Eisenberg
be312@nyu.edu
Comment by Barry — March 23, 2004 @ 10:18 am
I’m sorry, I meant John Foxworthy… (no offense John).
Comment by Barry — March 23, 2004 @ 10:25 am
What does anyone know about Buzzplay? Is this similar to 97Radio? Just curious.
Comment by E-Dub — March 23, 2004 @ 5:16 pm
Funny how you can’t e-mail refunds97radio@aol.com now because they no longer have an AOL account. Are they on the retreat now?
At least the Rolling Stone article is out now even though no one will be getting refunds this stopped them from screwing bands for the time being. Hopefully now the Feds will continue and put these guys away for good or they will pop up under another name eventually. This is all they know (scamming) and will be all they do until they go to prison.
Also yes, thank you John Foxworthy from Garageradio.com and Steve Knopper from Rolling Stone Magazine for their rolls in this. Thank you to all of the bands as well for keeping on this and filing your complaints and such, continue to do this, persistence pays with anything just like with your music. Never give up. Today a battle was won, but folks the war is not over yet.
Comment by mh — March 23, 2004 @ 6:04 pm
I appreciate the kind words from you folks … I’ve been working on this for a while and I’d like to see it resolved. I’d also like to give props to roj for making this forum available … YOU ROCK DUDE!
BTW … if you’d like to read the RS article (as shallow and uninformed as it is) check out: http://www.rollingstone.com/news/newsarticle.asp?nid=19495
John Foxworthy
http://www.laaww.org
Comment by John Foxworthy — March 24, 2004 @ 11:54 am
i love your concept.i wat to be involved
Comment by yinka — April 2, 2004 @ 7:30 pm
I don’t understand what “concept” you mean.
In other news: I have an investigator from CBS that wants to start a story. He didn’t want to post here, but I will. I need to hear from bands in So. CA, NV and AZ. This is an important step … please email me:
John Foxworthy
roadrash@garageradio.com
Comment by John Foxworthy — April 3, 2004 @ 10:28 pm
just a quick note to everyone following this developing story.
something big may be afoot; i’ve temporarily pulled one of john foxworthy’s latest comments here to avoid spoiling the work being done.
in the meantime, if you find your way here, and you’ve had some experience with 97 radio or any of the principles involved, particularly if you live in the southwest united states… and you’re willing to share your experiences and “go public” please get in touch - either comment here or find me or john foxworthy by email. we’ll make the connections for you.
for everyone else, thanks for participating. i’m glad to see this little, dark corner of the net can make a difference.
Comment by roj — April 4, 2004 @ 10:37 pm
ROJ,
A lot of light has been shed from this site and I want give you props for this. It has not been such a dark corner, but an abundance of valuable info for the victims involved in this scam. We’ve got them now almost. Thanks.
Comment by mh — April 5, 2004 @ 12:58 am
Thanx, roj. In my zeal I sometimes tend to overlook the obvious … one bad idea can ruin a whole movement! I’d also like to point you to this news story (Windows Media Player/IE). This thread is featured in a news story on WWLP 22 in Boston!!!
link”>http://wwlp.dayport.com/viewer/viewerpage.php?Art_ID=31333&tf=“>link
Comment by John Foxworthy — April 5, 2004 @ 2:53 am
no worries. we’re all here for a higher purpose, so i’m more than happy to run a little interference where it might help - your previous comment will “magically reappear” once the work on that is done.
in the meantime, there’s a new post here on the wwlp story, including a transcript. i personally find it quite annoying when important news is locked up behind arbitrary formats. we (well, i) built this platform to get things “out there,” so if you don’t want to (or can’t) install windows media or internet explorer, the story is short, and all you’re missing is some interview-clips, screenshots and a picture of the rolling stone article.
Comment by roj — April 5, 2004 @ 4:27 am
For sure, but sometimes it’s nice to hear a “thank you” or receive even a miniscule bit of recognition for your accomplishments … or efforts. I believe I speak for many people when I say “Thanx.”
Off to the business of refunds: Carlo Oddo has claimed to have refunded $15,547 to bands on this tour. I haven’t got one of those bands on my mailing list (350+). I’d like to hear from any bands that were refunded by 97 Radio … without having to pull teeth to get it. Specifically during the week of 3.25.04.
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
http://www.laaww.org
Comment by John Foxworthy — April 5, 2004 @ 2:15 pm
on behalf of all the people who have wandered in here quietly, i want to thank john for his work and investigation… a platform is just an empty stage until someone steps up and speaks.
i’m glad this came together [and seems to be progressing to a positive resolution].
Comment by roj — April 8, 2004 @ 5:24 pm
Just an update … Carlo Oddo has now told me he’ll be taking out a loan to get everyone paid back and be done with it. His timeframe is 3-4 weeks. In the meantime, I’ve gotten some pretty interesting calls from a few agencies that are curious about my latest equasion (based on research and eyewitnesses):
http://www.garageradio.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=71
After all of the confusion aboout who was who I had to do the math … and I hate math!
Comment by John Foxworthy — April 10, 2004 @ 1:32 pm
Hello all. Just wanted to say that these guys need to be taken to court under a class action lawsuit. They screwed my band, NEVUS, as well. We live in Arizona. We Paid them 600$ for the first campaign. Got the same crap you all did about Deftone and RCA. Keegan James was the only one who e-mailed me back like only 3 times. Mark Kingston was our agen and we actually met him in person for the meeting and gave him our money. When we started getting suspicious I saw him again at the New Year’s block party in Tempe Arizona. He ran off and was scared to talk to me as if he was hiding something. He knew who we were and screamed back while he was running “I got your number”. I couldn’t beleive when I found out that they are fradulent.
Comment by NIB — April 18, 2004 @ 7:06 pm
More on 97 Radio
Mentioned 97 Radio last month in an entry called Songsharks Get Busted. If you’re following the story, you’ll want to check out this link for client comments on 97 Radio as well as information on how to contact the BBB,
Trackback by Music Business — April 29, 2004 @ 4:26 am
All these band members that got ripped off are a bunch of “Cry Babies”…!! Shut the hell up, face the fact that you got jacked!!!!!!!!!!! you all suck…………..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Metallica Man — May 8, 2004 @ 2:18 am
http://www.fbaa.us is the next one…!!!!!
Comment by Metallica Man — May 8, 2004 @ 2:24 am
MI2N Music Industry News Network
97 Radio Closes For Business
http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=62943
I almost signed up as well.
Comment by Bardoe — May 12, 2004 @ 3:23 pm
MM … ??? Do you advocate the stealing from artists that work hard to get their material out there? Is it OK to “jack” artists with a dream? If so, then I have to say that I think you’re working for the evil collective!!!
I think that you guys need to start contacting your local media … they ARE paying attention. I’ve been asked to a few interviews via satellite lately and it’s because local bands are calling their TV affiliates.
I say get this noticed more!
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
http://www.laaww.org
Comment by John Foxworthy — May 13, 2004 @ 8:34 pm
Are you sure that there address is Sun City, AZ. (17220 N Boswell Blvd #25 Sun City AZ 85373 - How do we know they live there? does anyone hava a picture of this guy? I WILL take my bands RV out there and track this guy down. I dont want to piss away gas and time if this is not the correct address - Are we sure this is his address? If your reading this Carlo… Im gonna fucking be-head you. just a matter of time- I dont care if I get to you next week or in 2 years. I need to know if this is his address!
Comment by j — May 15, 2004 @ 12:11 pm
That is the correct address for T2K/97 Radio … but I think that threatening to do physical harm is the wrong approach. The better way is to take legal action and put this guy out of the scene.
I’m currently putting together a class-action suit and I have a good-sized army of bands to back it up. email me if you’re interested in joining!
Thanx,
John
Comment by John Foxworthy — May 17, 2004 @ 8:58 pm
It’s me again … I bought the latest copy of Rolling Stone magazine (May 27, 2004) and learned that Carlo Oddo has made a public statement. Here it is:
“I take strong exception to the accusations that my company ‘ripped off’ or ’scammed’ artists who used the services of 97 Radio and, by implication, Talent 2K. Our companies have strived to get artists airplay on radio stations and exposure to recording companies. The problems surrounding the Beach City Tour were caused by an overzealous independent salesman and by a competitor who, through his Web site, sabotaged the Beach City Tour while it was still being organized. His false accusations caused prospective participants to cancel, which doomed the tour. We have refunded many participants who paid in advance and are in the process of reviewing any claims that are sent to us. Finally, we are exploring legal options to correct the record about our companies and to put a stop to the attempt to destroy our business and cause harm to the many bands that we have successfully promoted.”
It’s obvious to me that Oddo didn’t write this, but what really blows me away is how blatently he’s implicated for owning a company that he claims not to own!!!
Our legal effort is beginning to take form, so to all involved email me so I can get all info to the attorney …
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
L.A.A.W.W.
roadrash@garageradio.com
Comment by John Foxworthy — May 21, 2004 @ 3:33 pm
Don’ let up on this guy Oddo. He is the devil himself!
Comment by kki — May 22, 2004 @ 2:08 am
me and my band were taken by this collectiond of derelects and thieves. my real question, besides the obvious ones, is this, how could they invent so many people (Mark Anthony, Mark Kingston, etc) that don’t even exist? Brothers Green is our name and please contact us about his class action suit. we want in. repeat I WANT IN! i want to nail thier balls to the wall. i actually talked to this guy many times on the phone. i want to see his face. in court! i would also love to have a few words with the BBB. how could they let somebody like these guys slip past their nets? are they worth their weight in rubber dog $hIt?
Comment by Sterling L. Brown — June 7, 2004 @ 9:50 am
The address is 17220 Boswell Blvd. #230 Sun City Az.
Comment by mh — June 7, 2004 @ 7:37 pm
Well … a while back we were talking about some media being interested in artists for a story. KPHO 5 (CBS) in Phoenix (heheheh) ran a very nicely done investigative piece on 6.10.04. You’ll be shocked and amazed … but mostly dismayed. The video can be seen at:
http://www.kpho.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp?clipid1=214484&at1=News&vt1=v&h1=Valley+Promoter+Accused+of+Scam&d1=149767&redirUrl=www.kpho.com&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage
Copy/Paste or click the link. I’m sure you’ll see the irony as I did
Thanx,
John Foxworthy
http://www.laaww.org
Comment by John Foxworthy — June 11, 2004 @ 12:12 am
Down with 97 Radio and Deftone. They are liars and destroyers of dreams. I gave 97 Radio money to get my music on the radio and reviewed in magazines. Since I sent them $500 I haven’t heard from them. Then, Deftone Records calls me up saying that they heard my music from 97 Radio and wanted to sign me and Spiderfingers to a deal and tour. Little did I know that they were 97 Radio and Deftone were affilliated. I hired a lawyer to go over the contract, my band was excited and got there hopes up. We recorded a cd in 3 weeks because Deftone wanted to rush it. I sent out the cd and the signed contract and never heard back from them. Luckily I didn’t send them any money. They haven’t returned my phone calls and then I got suspicious, I found these articles about other people who got scammed.
I have worked my whole life in the industry and have never heard of people so evil. I will never forget your lies and wickedness.
They have taken time away from us..more important than money. If someone just took our money that would be one thing..but they desicrated our artform.
I will not let this get me down. Fuck all the poser musicians and labels. Karma will get you.
http://www.spiderfingers.com
Comment by Jared Meeker — June 16, 2004 @ 6:33 pm
carlo oddo is on ebay selling guitar parts. his ebay name is “ckoguitarparts”. his phone # is 623-910-6504.
weird thing is….his payments for ebay go to the fair business association of america. http://www.fbaa.us
maybe a settlement for all of this stuff, maybe a fake BBB?
contact info:
Carlo Oddo
11138 W. Arizona Avenue #FBAA
Youngtown, AZ 85363
he also has a website in the works.
http://www.ckoguitarparts.com
Comment by john simsane — June 7, 2006 @ 10:15 am