Endorsements

(Re: Production of “County Birthday Song Album”) I came to Kim with some very sketchy songs. That is, I had the words and I had the tunes through my own vocals and guitar, but this was merely a silhouette from a distance of what the song sounded like. I explained that I had limited resources and that every demo that Kim produced for me had to count. Kim immediately started to focus on every aspect of music production. Given the great studio she produced my tunes in (The Fun House), Kim clearly understands the music technology, the art of music production, getting the best performances out of her musicians, mixing & mastering crew, and providing the best vocal performers that fit the mood, tone, and expectations of the music and song writer. I flew out of the San Francisco Bay Area to Nashville, not really knowing what to expect from Kim. Pleasantly surprised, Kim made me feel like part of the family during the recording session, asked questions about my songs and lyrics, and charted the music like the music veteran that she is.Just meeting the musicians and the vocal performers made a big difference to me. I felt that everyone really wanted to listen to what I had to say and was more than willing to perform my songs with the conviction that I wanted. Given the above, it is no wonder that CountryChart.com gave me a raving review, gave the performers raving reviews, and basically said, “If anyone has a birthday coming up, then they need a copy of “The Country Birthday Song Album”. Kim, thank you for your work on my album, it is the reason that I am selling many CD’s and Downloads. -Roman Starno (aka: Ray Taylor)

I downloaded all the songs and played them in my truck. They all sound great, better than great, they sound like hits. Love the vocals on "Love me More", love the way "Monster In Me" and "Crazy Life" turned out. Really, I love them all and my wife loved them all. Funny side note - was waiting at the drive thu bank teller and the lady asked who was playing on the radio the song that was on was "Crazy Life," , I almost jumped for joy in my truck it was so cool. Now the hard part, I have to pick 3 to send to the publisher. I know I will send "Love Me More" I just don't know which others.  It is a feeling more than words, when I hear what you did with what I created. I am so thankful and proud. I know they will all get cut and I believe this is the beginning of a long and profitable business relationship. -Boyd

You and your team are truly "artists" and I look forward to working with you again. Your interpretation and your capture of the "essence" in my music is astounding! -Roman

Larry and I just wanted to thank you again for everything. We are so thrilled with how you produced our demo of “Mile Zero”, and feel it was worth every cent. It sounds sooo cool!!! And thanks for making us feel so welcomed, and for taking the extra time to talk with us when we picked up the demo. We really appreciate your advice and hearing things from your point of view. It all made a lot of sense and we've taken it to heart. -Dawn

Kim did a great job producing the demo of the song, “Road Trip”! My co-writer (Cheryl Johnston) and I are extremely pleased with Kim’s production efforts, the team of great musicians, production and taking the time to REALLY make sure we were doing the best possible job on the song. Kim even took the time to coach Cheryl on the harmonies on the demo. Kim made a couple suggestions on the tempo and vocals that made a big difference in the presentation of the song. THANKS for your efforts and going the extra mile for our song! - Doak Turner

I've used Kim Copeland Productions several times and have always received a professionally produced and competitive-sounding demo--a demo that I'm comfortable pitching to the best acts and producers. Kim takes great care in the planning stages to ensure that the song becomes as good as it can be. She goes the extra mile for the songwriter, and that's why I'm a repeat customer. -Mike Taylor

As songwriters, our product is the song itself. We’re sometimes told that a “decent” guitar or piano vocal will do and it’s OK to present our product in that format…on the cheap. That might be the case if you’re, Jeffrey Steele or Craig Wiseman. The reality is, for most of us, our songs have to be great to begin with and then we have to give them a fighting chance with A&R people, publishers or the artist themselves by presenting them in the most professional way possible. That’s where Kim Copeland and her incredible production team come in. Kim has the background and expertise to help you very step of the way. She takes the time with the writer to make sure that the song is the best it can be before you spend your money on a demo. If necessary, she will help you critique and polish the song. She then assembles some of the best “players” in Nashville and pairs them with just the right vocal talent. The result is closer to a master recording than a run of the mill demo. The best word to describe Kim’s approach to her work is passion. When you‘ve got a great song and you need an incredible demo, see Kim Copeland. - Pat Kelley (published songwriter)

I just think Kim is great! We worked two artist demo projects with her, recording 3 songs in each. She really secured a fabulous studio and lined up musicians that were extremely talented and a joy to work with. My imput, suggestions and feeling for the songs was always at the fore front. There was an amazing balance of professionalism and fun. I have recorded a number of times in the past but truly had never experienced anything like this. We always felt like we belonged and fit right in. The engineer followed suit with all of the same and the finished product was not only the best we have ever produced but far exceeded our expectations, Kim’s details for vocals on my vocal tracks not only calmed me but encouraged me to get my best. We absolutely loved working with Kim and would strongly recommend her for future projects. -Alana Blythe

There are a number of great demo services in Nashville. Like Kim, they use first-rate musicians, technicians and equipment and they produce a great sounding recording. However, working with Kim is special. First, Kim will give you valuable feedback and advice … if you will listen! Sometimes a song needs a lot of work (or just isn’t very good or very commercially viable – gasp!). Kim will tell you that in her very professional and straightforward manner. More often, she will spend enough time with you and your good song to really understand what you’re trying to achieve. Her suggestions for tweaking it here and there may be just enough to give it a chance to be a great song. Then she brings in the best combination of musicians and singers from her broad variety of options to get just the right individual sound for your country-rocker, ballad, bluesy shuffle, tear-jerker or timeless anthem. Kim also distinguishes herself by welcoming the writer in the recording process to whatever extent you want to participate. Working with Kim and her team is a warm, fun experience. If you have a great song, it deserves a great demo. Kim is the best. -Ron Stratton, Songwriter

Kim Copeland.....an extraordinarily talented and competent producer with "ears" in tune to the commercial market ....a truly nice person whose manner can soften the all too common calloused edge of today's music industry. Thank you again, Kim.  Totally pleased with my demo! -Carol Mayberry-Sanchez, Longmont, CO

Kim did a wonderful job on the demo for my songs "Lonely" and "Walk In My Shoes".  Rachel Williams was a great choice as a singer. Kim chose great musicians and the arrangement was perfect. She was very easy to work with and got the finished demo to me very quickly. I highly recommend Kim Copeland Productions and was very happy with my experience. -Christina Meyer

Before I was just another aspiring songwriter wanting a demo. Then I experienced Kim Copeland Productions. From beginning to end, you are a hit songwriter and treated as one. In pre-production I found her critique service provides profound insight to help me prepare my song for the studio. To the session she doesn’t just bring top studio musicians and singers, but caters to your song by finding the best, top studio musician and vocal performer to bring your baby to life. Add in her intuitive and gifted production skills, a vast knowledge of all genres of music, and a little professional fun and you have Kim Copeland Productions. This is why I keep coming back. -Linda McMunn

I never imagined that recording my demos with Kim would be such an incredible good move. I am a busy working mother with a full time demanding job in nuclear chemistry. I have very limited time and can only make it to Nashville a couple of times a year. I have been working on songwriting as a hobby for four years now. These are my first professionally demoed songs. Within a week of getting these back, I received two offers to co-write with Nashville pro writers, and a request to co-write on a movie track. Recording with this caliber of production showed the songwriting community that I am serious about my songs. I was a little surprised to see how people I knew would listen, then respond to me differently, because now they can hear what I feel and share it! I am also so inspired by the incredible recording session that the players won’t stop playing in my head and new songs won't stop coming! (With more interesting dynamics than they would have had without this experience)! I love my demo’s! Kim has brought to life the things that I heard in my head, opened doors, and made this adventure even more exciting than I imagined it could be. Thank you! -Fiona McAllister, Charlotte NSAI co-ordinator, singer/songwriter.

Thank you so much for the opportunity you provided in demoing Chris Yarber's and my song yesterday. It was an unbelievable education getting to watch the whole process and hear it all come together at the end of the day. I knew I was watching total pros working and I could tell you had a great grip on the songs and knew how to capture the best possible performance. It was obvious you were in your element!! I know I only saw the "tip of the iceberg" and realize there is a whole lot of behind the scenes effort on your part, both before and after the session, and I want you to know how appreciative I am of everything you did to make this session possible. -Keith Larsen

Kim, I am a member of Songwriters of Central Ohio and wanted to thank you and Susan for the contest opportunity and also give you some feedback. Being new to many aspects of the music business, I had not seriously considered the value of a producer to a singer/songwriter demo, as I have heard good demo results without an "official" producer. But you have been sucessful in establishing that value for me. There is a lot to be gained by allowing creative expertise to enrich a song's creation. I look forward to working with you in the future when I have that special song!
Thanks again. -Kimbal Robbins

Kim Copeland Productions, I sing your praises! You have provided me with a top-notch demo, far exceeding my expectations. I highly recommend Kim Copeland and her team of professional session players, singers and engineers to anyone looking for a quality professional demo. With Kim, you not only get a kickin' demo, you benefit from her vast knowledge of the music industry, as well. Kim is all heart but honest as she gently guides your songs (babies) toward the studio, staying true to the soul of the song, while incorporating hints of "Nashville Magic". As a newbie, Kim's song evaluation service has given me a clear understanding of what song structure should look like as well as tips on how to take a good set of lyrics and turn them into a great song. I'm hooked on Kim's evaluation service...another fine example of Kim's dedication to developing songwriters. Kim, thank you for making my first studio experience exciting and memorable! -Lisa G

Kim waved her magic wand over the guitar/vocal of What You Took From Me and brought it to life in a totally wonderful way.  Her production skills layered the song with emotion.  I could not have been more pleased with the resulting demo.  I so look forward to working with her again! -Inglath Cooper

I honestly do not even know where to begin when it comes to Kim Copeland.  We have a history, that's for sure.  When  I look back on those formative first couple years of being "in the biz", it all begins with Kim.  There aren't enough words to describe how completely instrumental this woman has been to my career, not only in the recording world, but as a vocalist, a songwriter, and an aspiring producer myself.  Kim is a rare find.  Not only does she create QUALITY music, but she also takes the time to nurture the song.  There's nothing "machine-like" about the way she works.  It's quick and painless, as it should be, but she also goes above and beyond to make sure that the writer/artist is involved and happy with the final product.  Kim helped me discover my "sound", if you will.  We were able to find songs or shape songs that I'd written to not only fit me vocally, but personality-wise too.  It's because of her direction that I was able to build up my confidence in how I wanted to be portrayed as an artist.  To this day, 5 years later, I can honestly say that this woman still challenges me to be better.  To step outside my comfort zone and cross boundaries musically that I never would have thought to do before...to be a better performer.  My knowledge of what I want out of the recording process, whether it be producing the musical tracks, getting killer lead vocals, getting those background vocals just right, mixing the final product...it all came from watching Kim. I couldn't have asked for a better teacher. I look forward to another 5 years, Kim. -Rachel Williams

I’ve been meeting with publishers for several years now and am just now signing my first writing deal. Without the demos that I have done with Kim Copeland over the past couple of years, it no doubt would have been much harder to get people to pay attention. The demos that we’ve done have definitely helped open doors. When you have songs that are lyrically and melodically where they need to be, it is important to have professional high quality demos in your catalogue ready to pitch. Kim has access to the best studio musicians, engineers, and recording studios that are available. Between her years of experience and a great ear as a producer, she has worked very closely with me to make sure we turn out a product that is ready to be presented to the music industry. There is so much competition in the music business and first impressions are everything. That’s why it is so important and worth the investment to have your songs professionally demoed. You may only get one shot at a pitch meeting. Your songs have to stand out, and Kim Copeland is able to help make that happen. -Matt Cline (Songwriter)

Hey Kim, thanks for your help and production of "Drive It Like You Stole It." It won a spot in Indie-Music for top 25 mp3s of 2008. -David Michael (Artist)

Dang, "Black and White" is monstrous, stellar vocal, great production, you go girl!!! -Mark Narmore (Professional Songwriter)

From the moment you hit the button on a Kim Copeland demo her uniqueness as a Producer brings life to your speakers. She has her finger on the pulse of the Nashville sound and it shows in her high quality arrangements and production. Because of Kim’s professional demos and willingness to help her songwriters in any and all ways, we have had great success with Publishing Contracts on six of our songs and we are now looking forward to a Major Cut. We can't say enough about Kim Copeland and Kim Copeland Productions. We really appreciate all you've done for us and we are truly looking forward to a Major Cut!! You and any songwriter make a great team!! -Karen Anderson

The first time I used Kim Copeland’s critiquing service I knew I was dealing with a real professional who knew the Nashville market and how to instruct her clients to write for that market. Her critiques are intelligent, thorough, well thought out and she knows how to effectively communicate her suggestions. Kim is a great resource for singers and writers who do not live in the Nashville area. Once I felt my songs were ready to demo, Kim personalized each recording session to my needs, carefully selecting the studios and the musicians based on my style of music, intended goals for pitching the songs, and budgetary concerns. Kim also produced my vocals and I was well satisfied with the results. Kim’s fees are comparable and affordable. Best of all, she’s so sweet, supportive, and pleasant to work with. I’m so glad I met Kim – she’s proven a great “first contact” for me in Nashville! -Donna Beasley

(Review of Rachel Williams CD, Lonely At The Bottom)
The debut CD from a world-class singer, a finalist on the Nashville Star 2 show on USA Network. Rockin' country with an R&B edge. Awesome singing, amazing songs, killer Nashville band and production. -TradeBit.com

A genuine, heart-felt "thank you" to you and the crew for doing a wonderful job on the song. Y'all have made me fall in love with it all over again. -Matt Silva

You have made me take my songwriting seriously, and rekindled my purpose as a songwriter, and made me committed, to the art of songwriting and songwriting alone. You have made me know what I want, and what I don’t want. My childhood dream is to be played on the night radio, and make lonely people in the night know that there is someone out there who cares, and that they are not alone. I know I can do this after I have listened to your recording of Count On Me. This awakening would not have been possible without the rewrite you suggested and your polishing of the arrangement and melody and words. I know the books all say it, be universal, structure keep it simple and conversational, but I am about to find my voice, and it might take a little time before I am polished, but with your guidance I know this can be accomplished. -Sju Jacobsen, Denmark

As for demos, it's a business necessity to have good quality. The competition is severe, thousands of songwriters and thousands of new songs pitched every year. I recently took the plunge and had my first demos made with Kim as the producer. Kim has a list of pro musicians and singers she works with in the studio. Before the demos were made, Kim visited with me about production decisions so we both would be happy with the result. Each song needs it's own framework; choosing a vocalist that best fits the song, the selection of instruments, perhaps a backgound fiddle harmonizing with the melody, a screaming lead guitar or soft piano, a drum pattern change to highlight the chorus, a good final mix, etc. This is where Kim's studio experience shines through, resulting in a demo worthy of being pitched to anybody in the business. I am very happy with the demos. I plan on working again with Kim to make more in the future. -Mark Dunning

Since I first met Kim through her song critiquing service she has been nothing but awesome. She really knows her stuff and truly cares for people and helping them out. She has a true drive and passion for helping to make the future singer or songwriting star, and certainly has the skills to do it! She has helped me develop my songwriting skills to a point where people in town are noticing what I am doing when I play the gigs that I got because I know Kim. It never seems to stop, Kim can help from one side of the spectrum to the next. She produced my first demo recently and it came out better than I ever imagined it would! "What a producer" and great to work with in the studio. I can’t say enough about her. She has been such a big part of the progress I have made here. I have shown the drive and ambition to be something and she is showing me the way to get there! Thanks alot Kim! You made me feel confident and welcome in a very scary town and business, and best of all, I have another great friend!” -Michael Barrineau

The smartest decision I’ve made in regards to recording my songs was to utilize the talents of Kim Copeland. Having Kim involved in the project from start to finish took my songwriting career to a new and improved level. Throughout the project, Kim added significant value to the process. From writing charts and scheduling the perfect musicians, to molding the songs during production, Kim proved to me that a producer committed to excellence makes all the difference. I enthusiastically recommend the services of Kim Copeland to any songwriter or artist desiring to compete in the music marketplace. She embodies professionalism, musicianship and, maybe most importantly, kindness and grace.
With great admiration..., -James Casto

I recently made a 5-song demo working with Kim Copeland. I had a FABULOUS experience! Kim picked all the vocalists, according to my inclinations/specifications, and she seemed to have access to many excellent possibilities. I strongly recommend working with her! She is professional, experienced, sensitive, and wise. -Randi Wolfe

I was very impressed with the professionalism and efficiency within my allotted time to record. The musician selection was among the best in Nashville and it definitely showed by the sound of the CD produced. Kim, I can say that I most enjoyed your input and feel for the music that we created together. It was a pleasure working with someone that has a passion for the music industry and those who strive to become tomorrow’s new legends. Your production talents were very prevalent with the way you handled each song by dissecting the lyrics and grabbing each note to get the most out of the song for what it was. I truly feel like I have a friend in Nashville. -Bobby Walden

As an artist, I was looking to work with a producer that would not only make my songs sound great, but had the understanding of who I was in order to guide the creative process into something special. It can be difficult to find your true voice and style in song. I had my own ideas on how things should go so I needed to work with someone that I could trust, someone with a real understanding of music. Kim Copeland is a wonderful producer. She knows who to bring to the table for a project and really make things happen. Kim spent the important time up-front on pre-production, sometimes with only a really bad recording from an open-mic in a bar. Kim worked with me to really feel how the music should be, what style I was going for, and collaborated to make suggestions without moving away from the soul of the song. Kim understands the craft of songwriting and the power of composition and dramatic movement. She aligned the right musicians with the right engineers in the studio to really make amazing music. Kim is also a classically trained vocalist. When it came time for my vocal session, she used her critical ear to redo where needed, suggesting harmonies, movements, and emotional suggestions all in the right places. When it came time for mixing, Kim intensely listened and brought instrumental lines in and out to really shape the song. Bottom line, she can do it all, and it is a pleasure to work with Kim. She is a great teacher, mentor, and all around wonderful person. -Shaun Grant

Kim has worked with me from that first critique through the production process in the studio. She has access to all the major session musicians and vocalists. I have several letters from publishers who were not open to my songs at that particular time, send a note to me commenting on the quality of the demo. To date, I have completed ten demos with Kim's guidance, seven of the ten songs are under contract with two different Nashville publishers. Major players on Music Row, including artists that have dominated the top of the charts, have heard and considered my songs. To get a cut, first you have to be in the game. Thanks to Kim Copeland, I'm in the game! Working with Kim, I've reached goals and been able to dream about possibilities in this music business that I would never have imagined. Will Kim be able to help you in the same way she's helped me? It'll cost you twenty dollars and thirty-seven cents to find out. Good Dreaming! -Doug Brzak

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