Curt is has been a friend of Indie Artists Alliance for a long time. Here is a recent interview.
What is your performance name?
I usually just go by my name, Curt Yagi. When the full band plays, I go by Curt Yagi & The People Standing Behind Me. I suppose I went for the direct naming approach.
How would you describe what you do?
I make music that makes me (and hopefully others) feel good. I don't have a formula for my work, but just play and write whatever I am feeling.
How long have you been doing this and how did you get started?
I've been surrounded by music my entire life as my Mother's side of the family has music in their blood. However, I didn't start writing and performing my own work until 2 years ago. Since then, I can't stop.
Who made the most impact on you and why?
I didn't think this would apply to music, but my Dad, who passed away about 6 years ago, comes up very often in what I write. When he passed away, I was motivated to do many things in my life including music.
Give us a recap of the year 2008. What have you done to add to your success?
This past year has been extremely exciting for me. After releasing my debut CD in the end of 2007, I have been on a performing tear in the Bay Area. For a while, I was gigging 6-8 times per month and my CD was well received. A couple of months ago, I was named the 2008 Best of the Bay Singer Songwriter by the San Francisco Bay Guardian and bigger and better things have been happening since. It's funny how an award and a bit of press can lead to better gigs and more exposure.
If you could have done something different last year, what would that have been?
I don't think I would change anything as I like where I'm at right now. I would say that I have spent money on various marketing channels that haven't really paid dividends. Perhaps, I would be a bit smarter about spending money.
Other than a stack of money, what are the resources that you need to help you?
Yes, a stack of money would be great. Otherwise, does exposure count as a resource? I suppose I would like to gain more media exposure in the form of interviews, reviews and anything else to get my name out there. Better industry contacts would probably be helpful.
What do you think you are going to need to learn about the business to help you be successful?
I think it all comes down to contacts. I run my music work like a business and think I have that down, but I do run into hurdles in getting the attention from the industry. I need to figure out the best way to get my music into the right hands.
Are you working on anything new?
For a while, I was so focused on performing that I neglected writing. I've started to write once again and have plenty of material for a second album.
Where are some of the places that you have been playing?
I've been pretty fortunate and have played some great venues in San Francisco including The Fillmore, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium and Union Square Amphitheater.
Where can people learn more about you? What's your web site?
Everything you need to know is at www.curtyagi.com or www.myspace.com/curtmusic. I'll even list my email (curt@curtyagi.com) as I am always open to responding directly to fans. In addition, I am proud of my day job and would love people to visit www.rocksf.org.
What words of wisdom do you have for others who are just getting started?
I think the best thing is to be sure you are doing this for the right reasons. If someone were to go into this wanting to make a lot of money, I would say that it is very difficult to do so. Just be sure you have a love for music and enjoy the process.
Is there anything else that you'd like to share with the readers?
If you come to one of my shows, I guarantee you'll have a good time!
