Janelle Rogers worked in the marketing and artist development end
of the music industry for years and watched a number of the negative stereotypes come to life, such as labels taking advantage of musicians. That prompted her to start her own company in 2002, Green Light Go Publicity, based around a nice-girl approach.
"I really wanted to be that company that was based on honesty, integrity and compassion," says Rogers, owner of Green Light Go Publicity. "I wanted to set up a safe haven for bands. Sort of a beacon of hope that shows you can trust people in this industry."
Green Light Go Publicity's integrity-based business model has borne fruit since then. The Ferndale-based firm (it calls Paper Street Motors home) has grown to five people, including four hires over the last year. Business has grown 25-50 percent each year, and Rogers expects that to continue. She plans to hire two more publicists by the end of the year.
The firm represents a number of national acts, including The Handsome Family and Detroit-based Almost Free. Rogers says she has purposely kept her client roster small so her business doesn't over extend itself and makes sure the staff loves the music of the bands it represents. The company has also recently launched an Internet-based marketing campaign based around a fresh website, social media, blogs, and integrating the client bands with all of these facets.
Source: Janelle Rogers, owner of Green Light Go Publicity
Writer: Jon Zemke
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