Gary James' Interview With The President And Founder Of Rising Artists
Tina Joan Ball



Back in 1980, Tina Joan Ball specialized in matching potential recording artists with record companies. Based out of New York City, her client success was impressive. Just consider her clients: D.L. Byron (Artisa Records), Robin Lane (Warner Bros.), and served as a career consultant to Chubby Checker. Is Tina Joan Bell still in business today? I don't know. But her insight into the record business is interesting.

Q - So Tina, what are your qualifications that enable you to judge what record companies will pick up on?

A - I was a musician and songwriter for fourteen years. I also worked as the National Promotion Director for the Private Stock and C.T.I. record labels. I have confidence in what I do. I'm the best. If I didn't believe I'm the best in what I do, I wouldn't be doing it.

Q - Why can't a recording company's A&R department do what you do?

A - Because the functions of an A&R department are so multifaceted. They don't have the time to listen to unsolicited tapes.

Q - Do you have access to all the major record companies?

A - Yes, and even some of the smaller, independent ones. I have a great deal of support from this industry. When I call up a record company and tell them about a tape, they know what they're getting from me is the best and worthwhile to listen to. And that's true even if they choose not to pick up on it.

Q - How many tapes do you receive a week and where do they come from?

A - We receive about twenty tapes a week from all over the U.S. We're even getting tapes and letters from the British West Indies, Oslo, Norway and England.

Q - How long has Rising Artists been in existence now?

A - It was a year ago (1979) that we moved into this office.

Q - Why did you decide to start this company?

A - I've always wanted to be a record producer. I wanted to work for Columbia Records' A&R department. For awhile I had many dialogues with the company and could even see my name on the door. Then suddenly it stopped. So, I thought if they won't have me, I'll do it on my own.

Q - What happens when you receive a tape?

A - We listen to the tape from the beginning to end and give written comments on each song. We're looking for quality. We're not looking to make a fast buck.

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