Q:  Fan Funded CD's are made by independent artists, correct? Why should I help out?

A: Yes, Christopher is an independent musician, producer, songwriter and performer.  He is making his third full band studio album. His first independent release in 1994 'Sinking Ship' sold 3,200 copies and was never reprinted.  At just 21 years old he was the sole writer of the album 'Sinking Ship'.  The album was recorded with the guitarist, bassist and drummer of the Gregg Allman Band, and guest artists Garth Webber, and Jimmy Hall.  After California he recorded, performed, and wrote, while zigg zagging across the country until his second independent release '949 Steiner' recorded in Nashville in 2002 -2003.  He finally felt seasoned enough to not just write and sing all the music but produce, and play all the guitars as well.  '949 Steiner' is in it's 2nd printing and has sold close to 5,500 copies without marketing or promotion since it's release in 2003.  And can be heard on Rock stations across the country.  Now with the help of Corporate sponsors, Friends, Family and Fans, he is releasing his best work to date a CD entitled 'Truth'.  Helping out ensures artist like Christopher are able to continue producing amazing, non-formula, music for music lovers.  
 

Q:  How much money do you need to raise?

A: $75,000, which will cover recording the album, pay musicians, producers, guest artists, and all the other expenses that go into making, distributing, marketing and promoting 'Truth'.  This is our budget, our fund-raising target, and what is needed to make this CD a success and something masses will hear.
 
 
Q:  $75 thousand sounds like a lot of money. These days can't you make an album for less than that?

A: Yes: However, it is Not Possible to do it for less when considering the talent pool of producers, musicians and legendary guest artists that have been recruited and employed to help create Christopher's new album.  We've got a great team of career professionals, from Grammy nominated producer Steve Addabbo, to our 'A' list musicians borrowed from Santana and Sting, plus a former member of Warren Haynes' band. With out any more name dropping you get the picture.  The goal is to make a Smokin'  album that people will actually hear.  And that means publicity... promotion... more publicity... more promotion and tour support.  Bottom line: Fan Funded CD's work because they allow musicians to make real music not formula pop you are force fed.  That's what we're going to achieve here. 


Q:  Is the money people donate to this project tax deductible?

A: Unfortunately, no.  You should ask a qualified tax adviser that question.  We are not a not-for-profit organization.
 
 
Q:  Are we investing and getting a cut of your CD or donating to get it made?

A: A quick search will reveal the debate on this issue.  Logistically there is no way to split the profits of a CD so many ways for an independent artist.  Which is why we are giving back so much to show how grateful Christopher is for your help in getting his work out.  You will see not only the donation level Thank You gifts but step-ups ( more for your money and effort) and also unprecedented Tour givebacks.  You help us complete this CD and we will bring you a show to remember when we bring the 'Truth Tour' on the road and play for you!
 

Q:  So Christopher is asking people to help him, What has Christopher done to help others and give
back to his community?

A: Christopher has been donating his time and talent to charities his whole career. However,  for the past six years he has stepped up those efforts to an average of 3 - 6 functions a year. Performing in 8 events during 2008 alone!  A few of the organizations that receive his ongoing support and time include the CT Children's Burn camp, The United Way, The NY Firefighters Burn Center, Eagle Hill Schools, Farm Aide, The United Way, American Cancer Society, CT Burn Care Foundation and the Human Society. In addition he has done concerts for the Pilot House Special Needs, the Quinn Family (in association with the W. Redding Police Department). R.O.A.R Animal Shelter, Project Hope, Habitat for Humanity, Bread and Roses Hospice and other charities for families and individuals in need. Supporting these causes and giving back are cornerstones of Christopher's character and the responsibility he feels in maintaining a career in the public eye.