The advent of the iPod has created a
job description and the newest must-have in event soundtracking:
the MP3 playlist consultant. New York City’s Gray V has been
fashioning playlists for forward-thinking planners and chic
clientele such as Caesars Palace in Las Vegas for three years,
rendering the firm a relative veteran in the fast-proliferating
field.
“We get to the core of our clients’ vision,” says Gray V’s
founder, Lori Hon, “even when they don’t really know what they’re
talking about.” Hon and company like to have in-depth conversations
with the planner, but even a vaguely formulated request for
“rootsy,” “Buddha Bar,” or “hotel pop” can give birth to a
custom-tailored playlist 1,000 songs long. And with reps across the
United States, Hon and company keep all fingers on the pulse of
musical trends. “There was literally one day this year when clients
across the country were asking for more disco,” muses Hon in
amazement.
Among the format’s numerous advantages: no surprises, easily
wrought versatility and, best of all, affordability. Plus, a preset
playlist can be used multiple times, each time avoiding the cost of
a deejay. Gray V’s services also include on-call troubleshooting
and guidance in paying royalties to licensing groups ASCAP, BMI and
CESAC.
Fees range from $30 per hour of music play for standard,
ready-made playlists to more than $200 per hour for the customized
treatment. And since Gray V is an authorized Apple dealer, for
$199, clients can buy an iPod Shuffle already loaded with songs.