quote:

Originally posted by Lucie Manette:
Kevin,

I am not Nicole, do not speak for her as she does that very well on her own. She occasionally pops onto the board for a comment here and there and perhaps she will see your post and respond to it.

If that doesn't happen anytime soon...

What you describe with your experience is a matter of routine procedure in virtually any area of publishing and something all writers, song or otherwise, have to learn when getting started. If you were to send a meaningful true life story about how the Lord had worked in your life to the popular, devotional magazine, Guideposts, they would return it to you because it was unsolicited. The same would happen if you wrote a book on butterflies or a complete cycle of instrumental pieces for middle school band students. If it is unsolicited, that is, you have not queried, written in advance, given some description of what you have and requested permission to send it to the artist or publishing company you wish to see it, it will be returned, usually unread. It's just the way things are done, and usually the most painful lesson a young writer or singer learns in the area of Christian music is that it is very much a business and conducted in a professional way in spite of the intimate connection as brothers and sisters in Christ.

In the meantime, I would strongly suggest, if you have not done so already, looking into a local songwriter's association where you live. Most mid-to-large-sized cities have at least one, and these groups are great situations for writers to get together and hone their craft as well as making valuable industry connections. I would be surprised if there were not an organization somewhere near you. They are sometimes hard to locate, but they're out there and worth the hunt. In addition you may wish to check out the websites of GMA, ASCAP, BMI and SESAC as they too, have links and regular events for young writers such as yourself to help you move forward with your aspirations.

As for Nicole, please don't be hurt. The protocol in place is for her protection as well as your own. In addition to her touring, recording and other public appearances, she has a family and simply does not have enough hours in the day to open and read everything that is sent to her in this manner-which is why she has help from other people- just as you wouldn't if you were in her position no matter how much you would want to do so. She is, however, as evidenced by her appearance here on her message board, caring, encouraging and approachable. She knows what it's like to be a young person needing a leg up in the music business. Someone helped her, and someone will help you. As I said, perhaps she will see your post and respond.

You keep writing and good luck using the gifts and graces the Lord has given you.

Blessings,
Lucie