posted February 11, 2002 11:24 PM            

1) When Duncan performed in Annapolis last November, someone asked him when he would be back. Duncan said that he would probably be back sometime next spring/summer (if I recall correctly), with the idea of promoting the next record.

2) The main page of this website states, and I quote, "We hope to announce more dates as the months to the release of Duncan's new release wind down. Keep checking the calendar for the latest."

This statement tells me that Duncan is in the final stages of recording/mixing. In my personal opinion, I'm presuming that Duncan's next CD, tentatively titled "For," will be out in the next two to three months. Of course, this is pure speculation on my part. I could be wrong.

As for how well "Phantom Moon" sold, I don't know. I don't think "Phantom Moon" was certified gold at any point in the last year, and that would require at least 500,000 CDs to be sold. The source for record sales, if I'm not mistaken, is Sound Scan. When I have some time, I'll see if there is anyway I can get in contact with Sound Scan to see if I can get an exact figure.

Best,

posted February 14, 2002 03:33 AM            

I read somewhere, here perhaps, that Duncan said that he wouldn't make anymore videos. Whether that was a personal decision or a decision made by Atlantic, I'm not sure.

Personally, I think Atlantic is going to see what happens to the next CD before they decide to keep or drop Duncan. I might be wrong, but for some reason, I think Atlantic allowed Duncan to do "Phantom Moon" as long as his next release was somewhat more accessible. The fact that the sales of "Humming" and "Phantom Moon" came nowhere close to matching the sales of "Duncan Sheik" is enough to gravely concern any record executive. I mean, the sales numbers are not slight drops. Duncan literally fell off the face of the Earth after the debut CD.

Now, I will be the first one to say that record sales does not denote the overall quality of the music. Just because the song reaches #1 does not mean its a great song musically. However, from the industry standpoint, the object for these executives is to make money. They want to see a return on their investments.

With Duncan, I think Atlantic saw how well things went with "Barely Breathing" and thought they had someone here. They have also saw how well received Duncan has become with most critics and other musicians, even though "Humming" and "Phantom Moon" didn't sell well. Now, the good press is always good, but at some point, one has to put up or shut up. I think Duncan and Atlantic has reached that point in their relationship.

Of course, if Duncan is dropped by Atlantic, I don't think his career would be over by any stretch. There are labels, main and independent, that might be willing to sign him. I guess we will just wait and see.

Peace,

posted February 14, 2002 09:32 AM            

At this point singer/songwriters took a backseat. Now looking at the bands that have been coming out lately I feel the "pop" music that has been so popular is on its way out. This being said I do think that Duncan will have more sucess with this next cd. At least that is what I am hoping.

Music trends come and go but talent endures. Duncan will endure and if Atlantic is smart they will see this. I think in the next year or so we will be seeing some changes with what we hear on the radio.( We can only hope).

posted February 14, 2002 10:19 PM            

***There will always be a place for his Music in this world. Duncan can do things for himself, if he wishes or has too.

Much Love and Peace,
BW

posted February 15, 2002 12:38 AM         

Maybe if the PR people made a commission on sales they would be out there bustin' their ass working! Edwin McCain had a new cd out in June with some great songs on it but I never heard one song on the radio. So since he got no airplay, he got no big sales, which equals dropped contract. I hate to say it, but unless we speak up to be heard, I don't see them doing much for Duncan either.

posted February 15, 2002 08:32 PM            

Duncan Sheik 532,153
Humming 70,133
Phantom Moon 37,493

Soundscan is updated every Wednesday and records all units sold through the Sunday of that week.

I've been struggling with whether or not to post this information. I think ediebrickell's point is still made, but our Duncan is loved a little bit more than the numbers she listed.

posted February 16, 2002 12:58 PM            

All the best,

posted February 16, 2002 02:27 PM            

Regarding what was said above about music videos, Duncan told me the same thing. I told him I'd never seen any of his videos, and he just laughed and said "that's okay, I'm not making them anymore anyway." He didn't seem down or "miffed" when he said it - I didn't say anything, being that I was busy getting my foot out of my mouth for saying "gee - I'ts 2001 and I have NEVER seen one of your videos Duncan!" I didn't say it like that, and I don't think he took it like I was putting him down - I was just being honest. Until a friend from this board mailed me a tape that contained his videos (luv ya sweetie! ) - I just had never seen one. But again, I don't watch MTV at all, and have limited exposure with VH1, because the year Duncan released his debut (1996) - I released MY debut (a boy in April, 7 lbs 9 ounces ) - so I was busy with a baby when all those videos were likely playing.
Well, that's enough from me!
Ta-ta!
Shari

posted February 17, 2002 02:56 PM            

It may be the American way...that sometimes catches us in it's grips- too hard at times.
Let's look at all the angles and possible paths.

So much potential is waiting to be awakened yet in Duncan. I cannot wait to share in this light and in his future accomplishments.

Much Love and Peace,
Michele :

posted February 19, 2002 08:57 PM            

Regardless of how many records he sells, I think we all agree that they're brilliant. Unfortunately it is a strong factor for a major record label like Atlantic in determining how much they'll invest in promoting future releases. Hopefully they'll hear the hit on Duncan's next record and really get behind it despite declining sales. As flawed as the system is, it really does help to have a big gun like Atlantic in your corner. It takes a lot of money to get radio play and spins on MTV so that people can hear the music and go buy the CD. Atlantic has the means to make that happen, and hopefully the new team they've put in place believes in Duncan and will support this new record. (But still call your radio stations when the single comes out! It really makes a difference.)

Shari mentioned not seeing the videos on MTV or VH1. No one should have to suffer that way! If you've missed any or just want to see that sexy mug again, his videos are available online at http://launch.yahoo.com. There's also an EPK for duncan sheik.

So, back to discussing his artistry instead of sales...