Frequently Asked Questions about Membership

Question	Answer
1. Why are some items, like the bio photo, set up as options?	Accounts were designed to include some features, while other items were made optional upgrades for a couple of reasons. First, some members do not use all the functions UMO provides and when given the choice, they preferred the low-cost annual membership, with the capability to add only those options they needed, when they are ready to use them. Second, our members are at different stages in their music careers, some are busy regrouping and restarting their careers, or making other changes. As a result their needs vary greatly according to where they are right now. When it comes to Bio Photos specifically, some members do not have a photo ready but want to get started right away, and some don't feel that they want to post a photo (or even a bio). UMO recommends that artists at least post a basic bio even if they will be changing it later on. A basic bio at least lets potential fans know that you exist.
2. I am not from Greenwich Village and I want to become a member, is that okay?	Absolutely Yes! We have many members who do not live or perform in Greenwich Village. The reason for mentioning Greenwich Village is that our primary center of operation has been in historic Greenwich Village and the East Village, where many legendary musical artists performed. Also, we periodically sponsor Showcases and "supportive" Open Mic events in the village area. In fact, when our members visit New York City and the surrounding area they often schedule their trip to include participating in some of our UMO Showcases and Open Mics. Members have visited us from as far away as Wisconsin and even England.
3. What is Underground Music?	We use the term "Underground Music" to indicate "music that is not yet OR is no longer part of the mainstream music culture as it exists in the media" on a daily basis. As an example, an Underground Artist may perform all original songs OR may cover songs which were written by others, so long as the cover performance adds something of the underground artists' unique talents and is not just an attempt to imitate or mimic the original artist.
4. Why does UMO use standard music categories as opposed to using the term alternative?	Many people have told us that once they know that a song is original or that an artist's performance of a previously recorded song is unique, they would like to know what genre it would most closely resemble. The categories make it possible for you to hear new or different styles of pop, rock, R&B, etc, without having to wade through music and attend performances that are not close to the styles that you enjoy. For example, if you want to take a date to a rock concert you might be disappointed to pay your admission and go in, to find an opera. The categories are only provided as a guide for listener convenience. Of course, you are free to sample music across all categories.
5. How come there's no Hip-Hop or Rap available on UMO?	Unfortunately, we can't effectively cover every genre of music in the world, therefore we have to limit our coverage to those areas where we have the greatest expertise. We feel that there are probably many web sites out there that can cover other genres better than we could and we don't feel that we would be doing you a favor by covering your favorite music genre poorly.