Freddy, in addition to fronting Madball (www.madballnyhc.com), you are a partner in Black N Blue Productions (www.blacknblueproductions.net).

Yes, BNB is a production company started by Joe C
and myself. It's the future of Hardcore in NYC and more. It's roots are in HC, hip hop, and underground music in general.



This keeps you very involved in music while you aren't touring.
Without a doubt. Madball is my main gig, but, I have a lot of other "things" going on -- BNB, FREDDYMADBALL (my hip hop project - www.myspace.com/freddymadball),also FAMILIA CLOTHING (my clothing line).



Can you better explain what production companies are and what they do?
Produce things...hahaha! In our case, we make shows happen, from the ground up. We get the bands, book them, provide security, food, and bring the crowds, etc. We also have nights that we host at various clubs; in that case, we would provide the entertainment as well (DJs, etc.) We are in the process of expanding into other musical realms like putting out records.

How did you start this company?
It all started when we decided to bring the Superbowl of HC back to NYC. Once we reclaimed that event, we needed a name. Not to mention, we simultaneously had other things brewing. It's really been years in the making, but, it took two driven guys to finally just do it!

What events have you produced to date? Who played them, and were they successful?
Well, we are still a fairly new company. But I'm proud to say, most of our events have been successful to date...knock on wood! We've done various shows around the city. And of course, the last two Superbowls...which were both sold out! We've had reunions from bands like VOD, skarhead, District 9, Rejeuvanate and Crown of Thornz happen especially for our events.

The idea of throwing shows sounds great, but what pitfalls are there?
There are a million pitfalls -- everything from bad promotion, to bad venues, to bad band choices! Basically, any form of bad planning is not a recipe for success. If I've learned anything from this business/lifestyle it's Be On Point! Whether it's a huge concert or a small club gig, you still need to be pro about it and put in maximum effort. D.I.Y doesn't mean just throw some shit together. It means do it yourself, with class and dignity.

What is necessary to throw a good event?
Well, I can't let you in on all my secrets..ahaha.
But I will say this, you need the right team of people around you to make it work. And that's everyone from assistants, to stage managers, to lawyers. Sponsors also play a big roll in helping out.



What other jobs are available in an event production company?
There are a lot of jobs. There are all those that I mentioned above -- plus security, publicists, ticket collectors, and techs.



What words of advice do you have for starting this type of business?
Do your homework. And when you're ready, do it with confidence.



What is next for Black N Blue?
BIG THINGS!!

Learn more at www.blacknblueproductions.net
www.myspace.com/blacknblueproductions
and
www.youtube.com/blacknblueproduction.