Customer reviews
Have a look at the
Amazon reviews
Amazon reviews![]() |
Click on the cover leads to the excerpt |
On this site you will find the original quotes of musicians and music producers in regards to the Bandologie book. All quotes have been released with the approval of the owners. If anyone wanted his or her quote changed, I changed it promptly, within a few hours. Note: Of all the people quoted, only Tom Steinbrecher and Arnold Zamarin are one’s I had known previously. All other contacts were made through the Bandologie book.
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Among other things he wrote the lyrics for Rock You Like A Hurricane: Herman Rarebell |
“I think this book is great. It is a brilliant book for young musicians as well as for old hands like me who want to know how to make it without a record company in today’s music market. I found the advice in this book to be great and I recommend it to all musicians!”
Herman Rarebell, former drummer of the Scorpions (1977—1996), producer and composer with 78 Golden records and 30 Platinum records. Winner of the Echo Award and the World Music Award.
(June 01, 2009)
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Editor at BandBase: Tine Hansen |
“(...) Discouraged by American success literature I was skeptical when I took the book in hand. Contrary to my expectations, after initially dealing with the (at first sight) trivial themes and questions, I am now deeply convinced and thrilled with the book. (...) Kolonko explains in detail how to put things into practice. He provides the reader with a lot of useful information as well as many motivating thoughts and startling insights. All of this is written in an accessible and entertaining way. While reading I actually got the same feeling as with an exciting thriller: you just want to eat it up ...
Nils Kolonko delivers what is promised. »Bandologie« is definitely a success and why can easily be seen if you bear in mind Kolonko's own criteria for success. (...) I recommend that anyone who wants to achieve success with his/her music or wants to support others on their way to success, needs to buy a copy of this book.”
Tine Hansen, editor at BandBase
(July 29, 2009)
Comment on her book review from the same day:
“I agree with Tine, this book is awesome! I bought it a few months ago and have known Mr. Kolonko for over a year now. Even though I do not know him personally, he replies to requests I have made. This he does very quickly, reliably and honestly. At least that was my feeling each time I sent a question to Kolonko.
If you are a musician and you want to lead your band to success, then you are perfectly advised with Bandologie. There is nothing better on the German market!”
Jan Mieles, musician and music manager (his Facebook profile)
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Guitarist of the punk rock band Rabenherz: Burbn |
“Hey Nils,
First of all I have to admit that I was—and I still am—extremely skeptical about things like this and that includes your book! My band mate bought this book and recommended it to the whole band, so I gave this tome a try!—Seriously!?:
Since we started using the mentioned tips and put the extremely helpful information from the book into action, we are making progress! My skepticism is like blown away and now I recommend this book myself!
Thank you for the inspiration and for writing the book at all! If you hadn't written it we would not be half as motivated to carry on as we are now ;-)
Best
Burbn, guitarist of Rabenherz”
Burbn, guitarist of the punk rock band Rabenherz
(May 11, 2010—03:37:25 a.m)
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Singer of the metal band Adligate: Stephan Jegust |
“I really read a lot already, especially English literature that promises to teach bands everything about music management. Fiddlesticks! Save your money—seriously. The only book that will help you make progress is BANDOLOGIE. No senseless quotes from unknown personalities who allegedly know how this business works! Those who don't see how the wind blows after this one are probably blown in the wind themselves.” [[Note: In German he said “Wer danach nicht verstanden hat, wie der Hase läuft, ist wohl selbst einer.” Word-by-word: Him, who doesn't understand what the rabbit runs like after this, probably is one himself.]]
Stephan Jegust, singer of the metal band Adligate
(March 25, 2010)
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He played the guitar for the legendary metal band Rage from 1987 to 1994 and among others, recorded one of my favorite metal albums, "The Missing Link". From 2000 to 2009 he played for Grave Digger: Professional guitarist Manni Schmidt from the band Capital Joke.
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“Nils' book is just about the limit! Some ideas and suggestions are really simple but you still have to come up with stuff like that! In combination with the website and these newsletters Bandologie should be a »must buy« before you even think about approaching the public with your music! Man, I wish something like this had been around back in the days...BTW, I had a coaching with Nils and it definitely won't be the last one...” [[and then he added to his email: This is my honest point of view! Many greetings and see you! Manni]]
Manni Schmidt, guitarist of Capital Joke. Ex-guitarist of Rage and Grave Digger
(August 30, 2010)
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He became a professional musician, partly because of the help from the Bandologie book: Michael Wespi (the link leads to his website) |
”I have always been the creative type of musician making music within several bands and projects. This whole other area of business never really caught my interest and I didn't deal with it a lot. When I started my solo career as Michael Wespi and began working self-employed part time, it became clear to me: I have to deal with the business side of music. So, I read plenty of books about the traditional music business; marketing and all the other stuff ...then I discovered Bandologie. Somehow it is something that you don't find anywhere else. It is quite simply a different view on the music industry and how to be successful as an artist. How one can reach the goal of making a living out of music. (...) In this matter the book helped me a lot. (...) I would recommend it to anyone who seriously wants to make music. Those who don't want to sign with a traditional record label but would rather make music that they enjoy and really live this thing.” (This quote was taken from the very interesting Video interview with Michael Wespi, which is in German, of course. Michael gives plenty of tips for newcomer musicians in this interview.)
Michael Wespi, professional songwriter, rock singer and guitarist
(September 09, 2011)
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Bandleader and singer of the band Chief Jackson: Horst Gössl |
“I am the bandleader of a semi-professional cover band and wrote songs years ago that have never been released because I never realized their potential and respectively any possibilities. After I read Nils' “Bandologie” I was so motivated and inspired that I instantly started working; I wrote and produced a new song. Now there are international companies interested in it. Take a look and see it works. I recommend that you buy a copy of this book and save your time and energy instead of running around in circles for years. Work is getting done here. Best, Horst Gössl”
Horst Gössl, Bandleader and singer of the band Chief Jackson.
(August 01, 2011)
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Professional composer and music producer: René Petershagen (Cinematraxx) |
“Hello Nils, Thanks for your email. I am definitely going to recommend Bandologie and your work to others. I found your collaboration (note: ebook) with Screwaholic (note: No. 1 hit hip-hop producer from Germany) very interesting. I have been in the music business for quite a while now and I currently work for movies and produce tv music. My music is played on several stations now (...) Long story short: I was surprised that Screw is so diversified. Those who haven't read your book yet probably don't know that. Again, hats off to your work with Bandologie. Have a great working day. Best, René”
René Petershagen, professional composer and music producer (Cinematraxx)
(August 01, 2011)
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Professional musicians with more than 100 gigs in 2010 and more than 100 in 2011: Aleah and Ben are The Love Keys |
“Thanks for this great book! For us as a band (The Love Keys) it was and still is a blessing.
We were thrilled when we read the book and instantly began to dream. We papered our music room with the visions, set milestones, drafted meetings and so on.
We played 60 shows within the last six months and are generally satisfied with our development. Now it is time for the next step and we thought: What's missing? We ordered some books, yours among others and shortly after that it started. New gigs flew in like nothing, the radio called us to do a promotion, a quite well-known artist asked us to substitute her for a gig and now an A&R manager (who loved our demo) called us.
Top—thanks again for your Tipps—they're really worth a mint.
This just had to be said.
Warmest regards
The Love Keys—Aleah und Ben”
Aleah und Ben, The Love Keys.
Comment from von Nils: Cool acoustic music on an International level. That is rare with German musicians. Usually I recommend to use »local or national specialities« as a basis for innovations but if you can easily compete with artists on an international level, well, do so. When you expose your individuality and your innovations a little more, I think you'll be able to earn serious money with your music.
(February 17, 2011)
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Singer and guitarist of th punk rock band Jack's Basement: Polly (Oliver Pospiech) |
“This book was a huge help to me and as a result of reading it we have received a lot more traffic on our Jack's Basement band websites. Additionally, we now have a band that functions a lot better by sharing the work among our team: More big gigs, greatly increased sales of CDs and shirts at our concerts, a professional newsletter and so on...”
(Source is his German blog for newcomer bands: X Dinge)
Oliver Pospiech, Singer and guitarist of th punk rock band Jack's Basement.
Comment from Nils: BTW, cool punk rock sound!
(September 14, 2010)
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Lead singer of the band Reisegruppe Fischer: Susan Fischer |
“I found Nils Kolonko via MySpace some time ago and decided to buy this book because the free information and interviews on his website insight to the kind of valuable information my band could get from Bandologie.
In short, it exceed all of my expectations!
Who doesn't know that there are plenty of tips and unqualified advice from self-assessed experts and that often these tips are not productive at all. We have often felt that we received »vague feedbacks« because the advisors where often unsure themselves and didn't want to commit themselves to one direction. Musicians who have had a lot of coaching know what I'm talking about ...
With »Bandologie« this was different. There are details shown on how a band can greatly increase their success. Especially in the chapter about »The Five Success Factors of a Band«. This was absolutely crucial to me. Bands and musicians are shown strategies that can take you quite high within the business and help you reach a huge mass of potential fans.
However, the other side is shown very clearly as well. The way to success as a musician is not the right thing for people without enthusiasm, an entrepreneurial spirit and pure will power. While reading the book you always feel that the author takes his readers very seriously, understands the themes and issues of a musician/band and as a result has compiled the best techniques.
After a short while there are noticeable successes and that is absolutely motivating! The feedbacks are overwhelming and they show- putting Bandologie into practice brings results and attention to a band/musician.
We did a lot right with our band, however, we also ignored/suppressed many fundamental things or we just didn't know/realize them at the time.
Bandologie is clearly arranged, well-founded and very honest—I devoured it and recommend it to every musician as a required reading.
Thanks for this great book!”
Susan Fischer, singer of the band Reisegruppe Fischer (www.reisegruppefischer.de).
(April 30, 2011)
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Drummer of the alternative metal/dub step band 8-Bit Chess Club: Johannes Frenzel |
“I recommend Bandologie to anyone who feels he has reached a dead end with his band or who lacks an understanding of the crucial steps to success. Nils Kolonko delivers a perfect mixture of anecdotes and advice in his book. Therefore, the book is very entertaining and easy to read. My band devoured this book within a week and we immediately began to change things. Among other things, we kicked out a guitarist. (The chapter How Do You Kick Someone Out of a Band ... is highly recommended.) We haven't played live since we read the book but it is noticeable that things have changed—especially our way of thinking. Our first Echo award will go to Nils ;)”
Johannes Frenzel, drummer of the alternative metal/dub step band 8-Bit Chess Club.
(October 03, 2010)
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Bass player of the independent hardrock band D-U-K: Gunnar Ullrich |
“Howdy Nils, First of all thanks again for sending us your releases so quickly once more. So cool, our drummer was delighted!!!
I also read your book. (...) Therefore I'll start reading it again right now because I can't memorize everything from this concentrated flood of information. Magnificent work...
You'll see results as soon as everyone talks, writes and does what-so-ever about DUK. You'll be able to use us as an example for how this works.
By the way, I really appreciate your many useful hints and tips »on the side« in emails. I didn't expect that and would like to thank you very much.
Some of it is already in progress. For example, writing lyrics in German (instead of English). All new songs will be in German and the existing songs will be re-written step by step. Our singer, who also writes the lyrics, is kind of pissed-off because it's a lot more work for him but he definitely sees the possibilities. Strangely enough, you kind of kicked at an open door with that because we already discussed this topic several times. You gave us plausible and substantive reasons to take action.
I hadn't really noticed this Peter Fox (huge pop star in Germany) thing. Did you hit on that because of our singers' bunny-costume!? In any case, that is a great objection...
I didn't really understand the phone-call operation of the System Of A Down manager. I haven't had the time to research that but I am going to...
Your, as you call it, Blitzkrieg-plan will be also be tackled. That will happen when I get my fellow-musicians that far. Meaning, when we are able to adapt the knowledge because everyone has read the book and knows the why's and how (drummer is listening to your audio book right now...).
Alright, I have to go back to work again...
Well, one more thing. You can, of course, use my statement (pictures attached, I'm the bass player). As mentioned earlier you may write about us as a whole, soon...
Have a great rest of Sunday and a great week,
Gunnar, »the U« of DUK”
Gunnar Ullrich, bass player of the independent hardrock band D-U-K.
(October 03, 2010)
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Guitarist of the rock band Butcher's Wife: Hennes Fricke |
“I became aware of Nils through the recommendation of a friend and the resulting Skype coaching. Though this isn't the stuff I usually read, I devoured the book within a few days.
What shall I say? Despite many years of experiences as a band member I learned a lot here; finding explanations for some failures in retrospect and hopefully some learning's for the future. For the equivalent value of a set of guitar strings you get indispensable information here even if you aren't striving for the top. Very strong recommendation to buy this book!!!!”
Hennes Fricke, guitarist of the rock band Butcher's Wife.
(September 19, 2010)
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Rapper, music producer and businessman: Arik Ermshaus |
“Bandologie won't give you a formula to increase your success but it gives you the tricks and inspiration to create success for you and your band.”
Arik Ermshaus, rapper, music producer and businessman: www.aermshaus.de
(August 21, 2010)
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Music producer, guitarist, math and music teacher at a public school: Shahrooz Mahdavi |
“Hey there, I spent the majority of the last 48 hours reading your book. Initially, it was meant to be reading material for a young artist whose demo I recently produced. Somehow my curiosity forced me to have a short look inside and from then on I couldn't quit reading. Definitely educational and entertaining = KILLER!!!”
Shahrooz Mahdavi, composer and producer for the pop singer Floriano di Vitorio.
Comment from Nils Kolonko: If you like jazzy soul sound with a great singer check this out! If this is sellable remains to be seen but the quality is great.
(September 05, 2010)
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Bass player of Knucklebones: Fun Da Ment (Siggy) |
“Hey there, Thanks for your book! After reading it for the third time and putting the tips into practice the gigs are piling up. Highly recommendable, this book. Cheers, Siggy.”
Fun Da Ment (Siggy), bass player of the blues-, rhythm & blues- and comedy band Knucklebones.
(September 13, 2010)
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Independent artist, founder of jazzdrummerworld.com, professional drummer: Dave Kobrehel |
“Hello Nils
I'm currently reading your book. Bandologie is very, very interesting :) !! A magnificent book. Dave”
Dave Kobrehel, founder of www.jazzdrummerworld.com
(June 06, 2010)
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Guitarist of the alternative-/punk rock band One Deal A Day: Daniel Schultz |
“Bandologie is just awesome! As a musician you're always surrounded by these »know-it-all« people who pretend to know everything and are always self-contradictory. So what is really necessary to make music successfully? Most times these people don't know because they lack success or in a worst-case scenario, they can't even make music themselves. I'm glad that Bandologie finally gets to the heart of all this and includes everything you need to know in an understandable way. Equipped with this knowledge I can now lift my music up to the next level—without having to rely on producers and record labels!”
Daniel Schultz, guitarist of the alternative-/punk rock band One Deal A Day
(April 08, 2010)
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Frontman of the band Seelenwandel: Benjo (Benni Maier) |
“Hello Nils! Congratulations on your audio book, it really rocks!!! Concerning the technique and PayPal everything went well, I was able to download the files error-free. For me it was a worthwhile investment. I got plenty of new inspirations from the audio book! Well, here's my request: I saw at your site that you are offering band coaching's via telephone and Skype. Maybe you can help me. I would like to book an hour of coaching with you. (...) Best regards, Benjo aka Benjamin Maier of the band Seelenwandel”
(After the coaching I sent him the mp3 recording of our conversation and some helpful links) “Hello Nils! Wow, that is a MEGA information and inspiration package! I really enjoyed our conversation and felt very well advised. Of course I will need some time to structure all of this and put it into practice but am extremely motivated to do so. In any case, I will work with you in the future and recommend you! (...) See you, best, Benjo LG, Benjo”
Benjo (Benni Maier), frontman of the band Seelenwandel
(February 01 and 03, 2010)
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Media management student: Cigdem Demirel |
“Bandologie is a very helpful advisor for musicians who mean it for real and want to make a job out of their hobby. Nils Kolonko treats them with a variety of topics that are relevant to bands during their career planning. The book reads comfortably, technical terms are explained directly within the text. Even complex matters like Performance Rights Organizations and Copyrights are explained in a very understandable and clearly arranged way. The author succeeds in forwarding his knowledge on to the readership very vividly. Plenty of comparisons to successful musicians back up his theses and the rock ‘n’ roll-anecdotes provide a lot of entertainment. Kolonko, who is a musician himself and former product manager of a huge record label, speaks from experience and hereby delivers an authentic textbook for musicians.”
Cigdem Demirel, Media management student
(February 10, 2010)
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Bass player of the metal band: Kai Overkamp |
“Nils Kolonko created a useful textbook, »Bandologie«, for people who are ready to hear some great tips and advice. Despite years of experience as a musician I found great suggestions that quickly turned out to be true. I wish I would have had this book 10 years ago!”
Kai Overkamp, bass player of the metal band Agamendon
(January 21, 2010)
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Studied at the »Conservatoire de Musique de la ville de Luxembourg«, main subject piano, subsidiary subject vocals: Matthias Staller |
“Thanks for the awesome workshop!! The way you teach—full of power and passion—made me realized once more: To be successful, among other things, one needs power, passion and the will to work hard. You are a »Doc« where one feels they are in good hands!!”
Matthias Staller, music teacher for piano, keyboards and vocals at the Noisy Academy in Berlin (Xing profile)
(January 25, 2010)
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bass player of the metal band I Spit Ashes: Benjamin Müller |
“First of all, a big compliment. Magnificent book!! It opened my eyes about plenty of things...thanks for that...”
Benjamin Müller, bass player of the metal band I Spit Ashes
(January 24, 2010)
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He produced the documentary about the European music scene RockThe.Biz: Marc Weissenberger |
“Bandologie clearly points out that music and business are more interwoven today than ever before. It is crucial to understand a band as a small business and add hard work artistically in addition to being a sales person.
For all of those who engage themselves in this status quo, Bandologie provides a guideline that helps to set up your music the right way and create the foundations that will enable future success.
I can confirm, from plenty of conversations with successful artists, that many of the points dealt with in Bandologie are part of the working-area of these artists and that they work.”
Marc Weissenberger, music editor for a newcomer radio program and music scene documentary filmmaker
(September 26, 2009)
Question about this comment from Nils (via Skype/chat):
“When you say »many of the points« ... is there something missing in your opinion?”
Marc Weissenberger:
“No. There is nothing missing, it is just that not all artists use all of the aspects equally weighted.”
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Wow—brilliant site, great tips ... as a newcomer I just can't quit clicking from one site to the next... thanks a lot for the work you have taken on there and the many hints for beginners like me. Thanks for confirming the friendship by the way! Greetings from Wittenberge, Sven, wort-ton, lyrical dark wave pop.”
Sven Wendelmuth from Wort-Ton
http://www.myspace.com/wortton
(November 02, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Just listening to the Schandmaul interview (in German)! It's great what you offer here. Thanks! Currently planning a bus travelling operation myself. Idea engine running again.”
Micha Maat, musician
http://www.myspace.com/michamaat
(October 04, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hello Nils,
Thanks for accepting my friend request, great work! All the best and rock on ... Best, Mickey”
Mickey Monroe, local rock star in Munich
http://www.myspace.com/mickeymonroesite
(September 25, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hey Nils + Stefan,
You really did a great interview (in German) there. In my opinion, the topics that are dealt with are interesting and useful for every small band!
Stefan, many thanks for the quite internal information that you shared here very unselfishly. With other artists one waits for insights into their working-progress in vain.
I think that the way through Bandologie definitely helps in better supporting new bands compared to the contest whose slots obviously went to the wrong bands. (...) Best, Martin”
Martin, of the band Scherbenwelt
http://www.myspace.com/scherbenwelt
(September 25, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hey Nils,
great site and a really great interview (in German). Respect, one really learns a lot there ;)
Cheerio, Jonson SoF.”
Jonson, of the band State Of Flux
http://www.myspace.com/stateoffluxband
(September 18, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hey, I went through the Bandologie website yesterday and have to say, gee, plenty of stuff there!!!!
Had to take loooots of time one day to chew this up!!!! ;) Best!”
http://www.myspace.com/deltascutisound
(September 10, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hi Bandologie team! Continue to rock with your delicate works! Rockin' greetings from the Delta Rock Trio JANCREE! PS: All JANCREE albums are available at iTunes, musicload.de, mp3.de & Co.”
JANCREE, band
http://www.myspace.com/jancreeokd
(September 07, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Finally a book and someone who speaks out exactly what it looks like. Just awesome. Best of luck to you and may many musicians take it as an example.
Tommy from Soulsgarden”
Tommy, of the band Soulsgarden
http://www.myspace.com/jancreeokd
(September 04, 2009)
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Thanks a lot for our friendship.
Bandologie is an interesting and informative book. It is easy to read, helps you better understand the music business and to have a different look at ones own muscial project. Highly recommended!
Armin”
(August 07, 2009)
“Hello Stoke, First of all congratulations for winning the band contest. You really worked your asses off.
But the show must go on!
Therefore, have a look at the video that Nils Kolonko from Bandologie posted on my site. Very interesting statements from Marc Weissenberger. Many greetings from Hamburg
Armin”
(September 01, 2009)
“Hello Stoke
Concerning band marketing and promotion, listen to the telephone interview that Nils Kolonko posted as a comment on my profile. Nils interviewed the drummer of Schandmaul. Have fun listening to it.
Armin”
(September 21, 2009)
Armin, of the band BlexMix
http://www.myspace.com/blexmix
| Myspace comment |
Posted at the Bandologie Myspace profile |
“Hello,
Absolutely magnificent book. Looking forward to your reply.
Best
soul singer
Marko Schiefer.”
Marko Schiefer, soul singer
http://www.myspace.com/markoschiefer
(July 29, 2009)
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Songwriter and composer: Stefan Grünbaum |
“The technical literature on the topic of the music business is a dime a dozen. Much of it is very theoretical and often only described from one perspective. With Bandologie Nils Kolonko managed to create a unique work that answers all questions around the topic of »how do I lead my band to success« and supports these answers with examples from the real world. As a musician and former employee of a record company, he knows the interests of both sides and describes how a working relationship can function at a max level.
He clearly straightens out misconceptions concerning labels, performing rights organizations and the often feared thievery of song ideas. I recommend the book to anyone, no matter if you are an instrumentalist, singer, composer, producer etc., because I have been unable to find comparable insider information and practical tips like these anywhere.”
Stefan Grünbaum, songwriter and composer
Tip: On Stefan's website you can send a greeting card with the song »Missing U« to a person you miss: http://www.missing-u.de/
stefan.gruenbaum[at]simits[punkt]de
(May 08, 2009)
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Keyboarder and singer of the band Interleaved: Alex Beremschanow |
“I bought the audio book of Bandologie and realized that it provides all the relevant information an artist or a band needs to successfully make music. It's really very easy to understand because it is written like most people talk in everyday life. The many great examples are not only interesting but provide more insights into the music industry. Bandologie is very helpful for beginners as well as for artists with a lot of experience who didn't achieve the success they wished for. I am glad to have it. However, it is up to the reader to put the promising measures into practice.”
Alex Beremschanow, keyboarder and singer of the band Interleaved
(May 04, 2009)
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Drummer of the German punk band »The Sex«: Felix Behnert |
When I bought the book »Bandologie—How to Lead Your Band to Success as a Musician« my initial thought was that the author must be pretty convinced of his work. However, after a few pages it became clear that I really can reach my goals with the help of this book, a great team, great ideas (innovations) and the other factors that are outlined in the book. So, you may unknowingly let yourself be won over to make your dreams and the resulting goals come true. Bandologie is the fist step on this ladder...you'll see us at the top!”
Felix, drummer of THE SEX
http://www.myspace.com/drummingbehni
(April 19, 2009)
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Professional saxophone player (pop/jazz), composer and music teacher: Arnold Zamarin |
“Bandologie is a very suitable book for all bands who ask themselves: »Why haven't we become successful by now?« The book itself surely doesn't bring the desired success but it is a possible first step in the right direction. It provides practical tips that can be helpful in the everyday lives of a musician as well as great stories of famous musicians and bands which give the impression that »Luckily all bands put their pants on one leg at a time!«
The obvious fact that just playing an instrument, composing music and rehearsing with your band won't get you the success you wished for is probably clear to anyone. However, Nils manages to convince the reader that plenty of organizational tasks that help musicians with their success are both necessary and doable. In Bandologie the classical prejudice »this band just got lucky and got a major deal because they where at the right place in the right time« is very much relativized.
The reader gets a different perspective on the music industry and Nils provides good approaches on how to find one's way within the industry.
Bandologie helps musicians and bands with plenty of practical tips while giving the reader or listener a motivational push to reach the goals one set themselves. It infects the reader with the virus: »Alright, let's get this started! We'll make it!«”
Arnold Zamarin, professional saxophone player (pop/jazz), composer and music teacher for saxophone, piano and clarinet. Student of composition at the Academy of music Hanns Eisler, Berlin
(March 30, 2009)
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Singer and guitarist of the German punk band »The Sex«: Simon Raskop |
“The book Bandologie is a real help for musicians. I have a band myself and we will carry out plenty of tips and tricks from the book. I have had the book since December 2008 and read it all the way through very quickly. I instantly recommended it to my drummer so that we can perform, as Nils describes in the book, with a real good and motivated start. Just so you don't wonder when you hear from »The Sex« in the future. :) Among other things, the structure of the book was very good because facts and explanations are followed by examples and stories of musicians who made it ... in addition to the tips and tricks. Bandologie is the most valuable book for musicians, that's for sure.”
Simon Raskop, singer and guitarist of the band THE SEX
http://www.myspace.com/thesex4
(March 27, 2009)
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Founder and editor-in-chief of www.gitarren-blog.de: Maximilian Schmitt |
“Hey Nils, I just read your book and I'm absolutely thrilled. I am in the process of building a band (once again) and already have an almost finished cast. The book helped me for sure because now I finally have a »manual« to organize concerts, find record labels and solve internal problems within the band. So, thanks a lot for that one! In addition, the book will help me with my essay entitled »The music industry yesterday, today and tomorrow«. :) Again, thanks a lot!
Maximilian Schmitt, founder and editor-in-chief of www.gitarren-blog.de
(March 25, 2009)
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Singer and guitarist of the German pop band Scherbenwelt: Martin Schneider |
“Hello Nils, So I bought your Bandologie audio book and listened to the beginning of it. I got to track 20 (of 66) and can't believe what you did with this book. My whole perspective on the industry has begun to change and I wonder why I didn't see it the whole time. (...)
(Some hours later; March 13, 2009, 00:53 a.m.): Well, it's almost 1:00 a.m. and I'm through with the audio book (playing time: 8 hours) ;)
Today, I got more input than I have in the last few years and I listened to your voice longer than I do to my girlfriend's voice in one week! *lol
What you put together here is absolutely magnificent. I'm definitely going to refer Bandologie and I think that everyone who makes music and wants to get to a professional level should use Bandologie as a foundation. I was especially fascinated by your story with the concert.
(When I asked Martin if I could publish his comment at the Bandologie website he added to his approval): Bandologie is a must-have for every musician who wants to run his band successfully and doesn't want to start rotting in the rehearsal room. It takes the reader by the hand and helps him see his own music and especially his general approach in a different light. This book substantially changed our perception regarding our music and our band as a whole.”
Martin Schneider, singer and guitarist of the German pop band Scherbenwelt
http://www.myspace.com/scherbenwelt
(March 13 and 14, 2009)
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Composer, author and audio book producer: Tom Steinbrecher |
“Originally I was supposed to just do the mastering for the audio book because Nils asked me to... however, I just couldn't stop listening to it. The positive motivation that comes from the audio book is enormous. You instantly want to re-unite your old band and do things better than in the olden days. Even for everyday life you can get a lot from this book.”
Tom Steinbrecher, composer, author and audio book producer
(February 23, 2009)
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His company Studio 12/19 Entertainment offers professional management and booking for bands: Patrick Gross |
“The tips from Bandologie are extremely helpful. Every band should take these tips to heart if they want to get somewhere in the music business.”
Patrick Gross, Studio 12/18 Entertainment, management & booking
http://www.myspace.com/bandaidbln
(August 2008)
“Hello Nils, I finally read your book and got a surprisingly positive feeling. Somehow, I believe that the things you mention there are not actually followed by most bands...mine partly included. (...) Bandologie is motivating to do more. I hope it helps; in any case, all the best for your book. If you want to do me a favor, I'd really appreciate an expert ear to listen and evaluate our demos. If you like, check them out. I'd be very interested in what you think.”
Sebastian Jantz, guitarist, singer and keyboarder of the band Foxbird (former member of Jagat Skad)
(August 2008)
Buy the Bandologie book
All quotes and photos are released with the approval of the owners and may be changed or removed at any time, at the request of the quoted person. Thanks a lot for the approvals to all the mentioned people.
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Email: nils.kolonko@bandologie.com
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