#Musician's Tech Toolbox

[incorrectbatfam]

Okay okay if you insist, sheesh.

The thing about most batkids band AUs is that they either 1) exclude half the family or 2) try to cram everyone onstage. Not that there's anything necessarily wrong with the second one—a number of real bands work that way—but in this case, it feels forced and becomes a case of too many cooks in the kitchen. So I'm gonna give you my take, because this is literally my world.

We'll divide the roles into three groups: the ones in the limelight, the behind-the-scenes musicmakers, and the non-musical crew. All are equally important, so don't take this as favoritism or me sidelining anyone. Also, keep in mind that none of these are mutually exclusive. A lot of roles are cross-disciplinary and people go back-and-forth or fulfill multiple roles.

Let's actually start with the crew. These are the non-musicians that, realistically, would be a full crew of people, but let's just ignore that for now.

Tim would be all over the visuals. Yes, the music is first and foremost, but things like album covers, promo material, and merch design are just as important—the merch is actually a huge portion of revenue in the industry. Yes, you could argue that Damian is good at drawing, but this is really about visual arrangement, and who better than a photographer? I can see him drafting different designs and playing with Photoshop to capture the band's vibes. I could also see him doing something adjacent like concert photos/recording or editing music videos.

Harper isn't the only one good with gadgets, but I'd argue she has a unique perspective when it comes to engineering, making her perfect for practical effects, such as in music videos or onstage. More importantly, though, she can think on her feet and come up with the exact fix before the problem unfolds. This is especially important during live shows, where a minor mishap can quickly spiral. I think that her knowing her limits can actually lend to her getting creative and having more fun with confetti cannons, pyrotechnics, or animatronics if she so chooses.

Now to the second group: the ones behind the music.

Damian would be the key songwriter. Being a classical musician means that he'd have a solid grasp on composition and music theory, and all songwriters play an instrument of some kind. But that's not the main draw. Damian comes from two different worlds—the League of Assassins and Gotham. I think that would reflect in his songwriting style, combining tradition with modern influences. It would additionally reflect the band because everyone in the batfamily has similarly distinct before-and-after stages of their life. Also, I don't think he'd enjoy performing outside a narrow set of contexts, and a rock band wouldn't be on his list.

Duke is a poet, so I think he'd make sense as a lyricist. In canon, he and Damian work really well together, which is an important part of the process. The key to good lyrics, though, is knowing who you're speaking to. Duke takes his time to understand each batfamily member, so even if he hasn't lived their experiences, he can translate them into song. And although music is about self-expression, there is still the audience to consider. Duke has his ear to the ground. He knows what people care about and what needs to be said, and he's also not afraid to call out the powers that be.

Barbara would be a good producer, and not just because she's tech-savvy. As Oracle, she is coordinating a ton of moving pieces without losing her cool. She has to keep track of tiny details without losing sight of the big picture. As a librarian, she has to catalogue meticulously and often do the same repetitive tasks. Being a producer is essentially a combination of the two. A lot of people would get overwhelmed with the toolbox a producer has, but I can picture Barbara taking one look and knowing exactly what to do.

Finally, we have the band itself.

Dick would be on lead guitar. And yes, I know every AU puts him in this role, but there's more. Canonically, he plays the guitar, but I think his personality is ultimately what would lend to his artistry. He'd have no problem taking center stage with guitar solos and would have the most memorable riffs. Also, he's not afraid to try new things and go big. Like, Discowing, much? Now imagine that energy channeled into experimenting with pedals, distortion, or alternate forms of picking and tuning. (EDIT bc I forgot: Dick would totally troll people with the Buddy Holly riff.)

Jason would be the bassist. Now, a lot of people view bass players as simply secondary to lead guitarists—some musicians even think this and it's kinda annoying. The way I see it, the bass and lead guitar fill in each other's blanks, and you could describe Jason and Dick's sibling relationship the same way. Jason isn't outwardly flashy like Dick, but he likes to show off on occasion, which a good bass hook allows for. Dick and Jason's dynamic is also built on contrast, which I can see Jason accomplishing through the right harmony or countermelody.

Cass would be the drummer. She is highly observant and physically coordinated, so the drums would come as second nature to her even when all four of her limbs are doing completely different things. Cass doesn't need to be in the spotlight for everyone to see her importance, and like a mission, a song wouldn't be as effective without her. Also, speaking as a drummer myself: we're actually the ones in charge—if I feel like playing at 200 BPM, the song is now 200 BPM.

And lastly, we have our vocalist: Steph. The difference between a good vocalist and a great one is confidence. Steph brings that. She's confident, upbeat, and can turn the energy of a room. A good stage presence and knowing how to interact with the audience is important—reading the room, getting them excited, and injecting humor or seriousness into the right spots. A lot of vocalists also play another instrument (the synth seems to be popular), so I can totally see Steph doing that as a way to augment the sound and have fun.

One note and I'll give you my longwinded take on the batkids rock band AU concept

[universalinfo]

How to Become a Digital Specialist: Essential Skills and Effective Strategies

In today’s tech-savvy age, the term digital specialist has become the modern-day superhero of the digital era. Think of it: every business, big or small, is striving to establish its digital footprint. And who do they need? Yes, you guessed it right: a digital specialist. 

If you’ve ever wondered about switching careers or upskilling yourself to be that go-to person, this is your golden ticket. Dive in with us as we unravel the skills and strategies that will make you stand out in this expansive digital cosmos. Are you ready?

Understanding the Digital Landscape: Embark on a Virtual Adventure

The digital world, in many ways, is like a vast, uncharted forest. Picture it: mysterious, ever-changing, and brimming with opportunities. And just like an explorer charting new terrains, a digital specialist is on a constant quest to unravel the unknown.

Now, you might be thinking, where do I start this adventure? Begin with the basics. Understand what makes the digital world tick. Is it the flashy ads that pop up on social media? Or the intricately designed websites that provide seamless user experiences? Truth be told, it’s a mix of everything.

Dive into platforms like Medium, TechCrunch, or Digital Trends. They’re your compass in this digital jungle. By keeping abreast with these platforms, you’re not just staying updated; you’re preparing yourself for the road ahead. The key is to never stop exploring. Because in the world of digital, the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Technical Skills: Your Digital Toolbox

Imagine being a carpenter without your tools or a chef without your utensils. That’s how a digital specialist feels without a robust set of technical skills. But fear not. With the plethora of resources available today, building your digital toolbox is more fun than ever.

Start with website platforms. WordPress, for instance, powers over 30% of the web. It’s user-friendly, versatile, and a great first step. Play around, create mock websites, and get a feel of the platform. 

And while you’re at it, why not dive into the world of SEO? Tools like Moz or SEMrush aren’t just tools; they’re gateways to understanding how the internet finds information.

If all this sounds like a lot, take a deep breath and remember: every digital specialist started somewhere. With each new skill, think of it as adding a shiny new tool to your digital toolbox. One that’ll help you craft, fix, and innovate in the sprawling digital workshop.

Creativity: Painting the Digital Canvas

Let’s debunk a myth right away: creativity isn’t reserved for artists, writers, or musicians. It’s a universal trait, like laughter or curiosity. In the digital world, creativity is the splash of color that brings a canvas to life.

Think of your favorite ad. What made it memorable? Was it the catchy jingle, the heartwarming story, or the unexpected twist at the end? That’s creativity at work. As a digital specialist, your task is to sprinkle that magic dust on everything you touch.

If you’re pondering, “But I’m not creative,” banish that thought. Stimulate your creative neurons. Take a walk, doodle during meetings, or indulge in brainstorming sessions with peers. You’d be surprised where inspiration lurks. 

Remember, in the digital universe, creativity isn’t just an asset; it’s your unique signature. One that tells the world, “Here’s a digital masterpiece, crafted with care and creativity.”

Adaptability: The Dance of the Digital Specialist

Imagine salsa dancing: rhythmic, ever-changing, and requiring you to be in perfect sync with your partner. The digital realm is somewhat similar. It’s a dance where the beat (or trend) changes without notice, and the only way to keep up is by adapting. The moment you miss a step, you’re out of rhythm.

Being a digital specialist is not just about knowing your moves but also predicting the next turn, swivel, or dip. Instagram was once merely a photo-sharing app, and look at it now, a marketing titan. TikTok, Clubhouse, and countless other platforms erupted onto the scene almost overnight. Can you predict the next digital sensation?

Embrace every change with enthusiasm. Submerge yourself in new platforms, play with novel algorithms, and don’t fear mistakes. Often, missteps lead to the most exciting discoveries. Remember, in the dance of digital, it’s all about catching the rhythm and never missing a beat. For more details visit us at https://adcetera.io/.

Networking: Not Just Contacts, But Lifelong Allies

Picture this: you’re stranded on a digital island. No matter how skilled or knowledgeable you are, without a boat or bridge, you’re isolated. This is where networking comes into play. It’s your bridge to the mainland, your lifeline in the vast ocean of the digital world.

But here’s the catch: networking isn’t about collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn contacts. It’s about forging genuine connections. 

Share a coffee (or a virtual one), discuss the latest trends, exchange ideas, or even debate over the best digital strategies. Every conversation, every shared laugh, and every moment of mutual learning builds that bridge stronger.

Join forums, participate in webinars, and don’t shy away from striking up a conversation with a fellow digital enthusiast. Every person you meet is a chapter in your ever-evolving digital story. And who knows? Some of those chapters might just turn out to be the most thrilling ones.

Staying Ethical and Responsible: Your Digital Compass

In a world of clickbait headlines, misleading ads, and questionable practices, holding onto your ethical compass becomes paramount. Think of it as your North Star, guiding you through the murky waters of the digital sea.

Being a digital specialist comes with immense power. A well-crafted campaign can influence minds, a finely-tuned algorithm can direct traffic, and a simple post can go viral. But with great power comes great responsibility. Always ask yourself: “Is this honest? Is it authentic? Does it add real value?”

Maintain transparency in your dealings, respect user data, and advocate for fair digital practices. Remember, the digital realm might be vast and daunting, but it’s the champions of ethics who leave an indelible mark. Not just as professionals, but as beacons of trust and integrity.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to becoming a digital specialist is an exhilarating one, filled with challenges, learnings, and immense rewards. With the right blend of technical knowledge, creativity, adaptability, networking, and ethical practices, you’re not just stepping into a job role but a world of limitless possibilities. So gear up, dive deep, and let the digital waves take you to horizons unknown. The digital realm awaits its next specialist. Why shouldn’t it be you?

Learn More:

Digital Specialist in Online Marketing

[educadhd]

Considering my own digital literacy...

In these past few months that I've spent making these lesson plans and create to learn projects, I've had a lot time to think about my personal relationship with digital media and evaluate my own literacy. And thanks to the bees in my head, I have Many Thoughts.

I am, admittedly, chronically online in many ways, and I'm comfortable working with a wide variety of digital tools and platforms. I'm an artist, so I'm comfortable with digital art software. I'm a musician, so I'm comfortable with audio production and post-production software. I'm a writer, so I can basically use any text related digital anything with my eyes closed. These things have made sense to me and been a part of my life for over a decade now, so I feel like I've reached a stage in my relationship with technology and the internet where I'm turning my focus to seeking out the best tools and resources and examining tech with a critical eye rather than just using whatever is easiest to find.

So when approaching a lot of these projects, I took a rather picky approach to the resources I selected to use to make them. Since I've recently been more cognizant and concerned about the financial accessibility of various tech, I tried to use as much free, open source software as possible. Technically speaking, I do have free access to Adobe's collection of creative software, but this is not something my students can count on having, so it's been important to me to curate as many truly free, easily accessible, and non-subscription-based resources as I can. Quite frankly, if I see another great software I love turn into a subscription, I will scream.

That being said, I've found it incredibly valuable to be familiar with a lot of different creative software because it gives me a lot of options when I want to do something, so I think that giving students the opportunity to build their own toolboxes of software and other resources that they can choose from at their discretion is a really important thing to prioritize in the classroom. I believe strongly in providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and response so that students can develop healthy autonomy in their learning and their relationship with media, and projects that encourage students to branch out and be creative in new ways can be a great way of facilitating that.

Ultimately though, more than any specific mode or project, the thing that really sticks out to me as valuable is the ideals of literacy and accessibility. Hardware and software are constantly shifting, and what I think is fun and useful now may very well be obsolete in a couple years, given the obnoxiously short life cycle of a lot of tech these days (but that's another rant altogether). What doesn't change are the transferable strategies associated with lifelong learning and literacy and the need for accessible resources. So to me what matters most is shaping my classroom around those principles, cos I figure if I do that, the specifics of what and how to use various tools and resources will become clear as I move forward.

[viralnews-blogger-blog]

What Silicon Valley can learn from Lebanons women in tech

What Silicon Valley can learn from Lebanons women in tech

Melissa Jun Rowley Contributor

Melissa Jun Rowley is a journalist, entrepreneur and activist focused on the intersection of storytelling, technology and social justice. As the founder and CEO of Humanise, Inc ., she is developing The Toolbox, a data-driven humanitarian initiative created by musician Peter Gabriel.

More posts by this contributor:

Can Dubai achieve a happiness…

[rokstarramos-blog]

When chatting with some people interested in joining our business and they find out they need to invest a small fee, they wonder why they need to spend money to make money but take a moment and think about this... Electricians have to buy the properly insulated tools and equipment/meters etc. to make money. Stylists have to buy their scissors, irons, and dye/chemicals to make money. Nail techs need their supplies and tools to make money. If you are a mechanic 🚘, you have to have the right tools🔧, compressor, air tools, toolbox, wrenches, ratchets, not to mention all of the specialty tools to make money! Those who go to college📚are paying for the 'tools' to get a job to make money, to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars! If you work at an office you have to purchase the appropriate clothes and shoes to wear to work and I bet they will cost you more than $99! If you are an Architect or Engineer📐📏, you have schooling, licensing and continuing education✏you have to deal with to make money. If you are an attorney you have to also pay for school, and then bar licensing to make money. If you work on a construction site 🚜, you most likely will buy Steel toe boots to get started making money. If you work in the healthcare industry, you have schooling, licensing/testing and also scrubs/comfy shoes and select equipment 🔬to buy to make money. If you are a musician , you've got to purchase your musical instruments 🎻to produce the music you will make money with! And of course if you own your OWN business, let's say a franchise, you pay thousands of to start up, plus paying employees and their health insurance and worker's comp every month! My point is, you can use any excuse you want to, but 'I don't want to spend money to make money' excuse is invalid. The money you are spending to join my business is pretty minimal compared to most other professions, and if you think about the unlimited income POTENTIAL we have with this business, $99 is nothing! Stop with the hemming and hawing and over analyzing! This is it! This is the opportunity you have been praying for, you just have to take the chance!