Haze Media Blog: Your All-Access Pass

Welcome to my Blog! For those of you who don’t know me yet, I’m Amanda Hayes, the creator of Haze Media Kits. I'm excited to share my journey and insights with you as I navigate the music industry. As a rising senior at Monmouth University, where I am studying music with a concentration in industry, I have been fortunate to immerse myself in a world of creativity and talent.

One of my most significant accomplishments during my time at Monmouth University is serving as the Vice President of the student-run record label, Blue Hawk Records. This role has given me invaluable experience in managing and promoting emerging artists, organizing events, and understanding the inner workings of the music industry. Through my involvement with Blue Hawk Records, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with launching and sustaining a successful music career.

During my time at Monmouth University, I have actively engaged in digital storytelling, honing my skills through various projects. In the spring semester of 2022, I had the opportunity to edit YouTube vlogs for Blue Hawk Records, providing me with hands-on experience in crafting compelling narratives through video editing. Additionally, throughout the past academic year, I consistently photographed multiple events and distributed media content for our Instagram account, @bluehawkrecordsofficial. These events included performances from artists such as White Wing and JADE.

Moreover, I took on the responsibility of designing and authoring two electronic press kits for Monmouth Artists for Diversity and Inclusion. These press kits, released under Blue Hawk Records during the summers of 2021 and 2022, showcased the unique talents and perspectives of the featured artists. Building upon this foundation, I have now extended my expertise to collaborate with local indie artists from the New Jersey and New York City area, creating tailored EPKs to meet their specific needs. I have developed a keen eye for visual aesthetics and a knack for crafting impactful stories.

In addition to my involvement at Monmouth University, I have had the privilege of working with talented musicians on individual projects. Notably, I had the opportunity to create promotional portraits for Abby Garcia, including designing the captivating album cover for her single "Begging." Through careful collaboration and attention to detail, I aimed to visually capture the essence of Abby's music and convey the emotions embedded within her powerful lyrics.

Another remarkable collaboration was with Samantha Jordan, for whom I had the pleasure of capturing promotional portraits and the album cover for her release, "If You Ever Change." With Samantha's unique style and musical vision in mind, I strived to create visuals that would resonate with her audience and complement the sonic experience she crafted.

Through my experiences, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the art of digital storytelling and its application in the music industry. I am eager to share my knowledge and continue growing as a media professional. Join me as I delve deeper into the world of content creation, exploring innovative strategies to captivate audiences and make a lasting impact in the ever-evolving realm of digital media.

With this blog, I aim to provide an all-access pass to college-aged individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in the music industry. I want to share my knowledge and experiences, as well as showcase the journeys of local artists, photographers, and industry professionals who have made their mark in this dynamic field. Expect insightful interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and practical advice that will help you navigate the intricacies of the music industry.

I hope to foster a supportive and inspiring community for aspiring musicians, industry enthusiasts, and creative individuals alike. Whether you're a musician looking to refine your craft, a photographer seeking to capture the essence of music, or simply someone fascinated by the inner workings of the industry, this blog is for you. Together, we will explore the various facets of the music world, learn from each other's experiences, and empower one another to reach our fullest potential.

So, buckle up and join me on this exciting journey into the world of music! Get ready for a blend of personal anecdotes, informative articles, and captivating interviews that will fuel your passion for music and propel you forward in your own endeavors. Let's embark on this adventure together and make our mark on the music industry!