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In a world where something special is needed to rise above the din and get attention, LaFontaine was called upon often. As a voice-over artist, he narrated promotional spots on TV and for the movies. A lot of them: since his voice-over start in 1965 (for the trailer for "Gunfighters of Casa Grande"), he has recorded an estimated 350,000 television commercials and 5,000 movie trailers. His deep baritone led him to be known as "the VOG" -- the Voice Of God. He "understood the dynamics of each word and gave each word a musical note that was intuitive," said Joan Baker, author of Secrets of Voice-Over Success, "which is why he could perform in so many genres -- action, drama, comedy, romance, horror films, science fiction." LaFontaine wrote most of his own scripts, and would write what sounded best. That led to quite a few familiar phrases, including "a one-man army", "from the bedroom to the boardroom", and the now-cliche "In a world where..." (such as, "In a world where a one-man army goes from the bedroom to the boardroom..."). He died September 1 at 68. Video From This is True for 30 August 2008 Suggestions for further reading:
 By: Catherine Maurice List Price: $15.00 Amazon Price: $10.20 Editorial Review: She was a beautiful doelike child, with an intense, graceful fragility. In her first year, she picked up words, smiled and laughed, and learned to walk. But then Anne-Marie began to turn inward. And when her little girl lost some of the words she had acquired, cried inconsolably, and showed no interest in anyone around her, Catherine Maurice took her to doctors who gave her a devastating diagnosis: autism. In their desperate struggle to save their daughter, the Maurices plunged into a medical nightmare of false hopes, "miracle cures," and infuriating suggestions that Anne-Marie's autism was somehow their fault. Finally, Anne-Marie was saved by an intensive behavioral therapy. Let Me Hear Your Voice is a mother's illuminating account of how one family triumphed over autism. It is an absolutely unforgettable book, as beautifully written as it is informative. "A vivid and uplifting story . . . Offers new strength to parents who refuse to give up on their autistic children." -- Kirkus Reviews "Outstanding . . . Heartfelt . . . A lifeline to families in similar circumstances." -- Library Journal  By: Randy ThomasPeter Rofe' List Price: $19.95 Amazon Price: $13.57 Editorial Review: This book is designed to teach aspiring voice artists, in a step-by-step format, how to break into an extremely competitive marketplace. There is no single or definitive path to making money in voice-overs, although there are certain trends and truths that can inform your career. Voice for Hire is a sensible, chronological order of those steps you need to take to achive your goals, along with insightful comments and stories from the voice-over industry's top agents, casting directors, producers, and, of course, artists. Voice for Hire will help you open the door and stay in the room once you get there.  By: James Alburger List Price: $28.95 Amazon Price: $19.11 Editorial Review: From basic acting techniques and exercises for keeping the voice in top condition, to marketing and promotion of the actor, this book covers it all. The Art of Voice Acting is an excellent introduction to the business and art of voice acting. This new edition also features coverage of specialist areas of voice over: animation/video gaming and film/ movie trailer. Updated to reflect the latest changes in performance techniques and products in the industry, it is essential reading for all voice over actors. Packed with expert advice on job opportunities and career management tips, it is the ideal resource for anyone involved in the industry. The voice over demos and exercises on the expanded CD ROM complete this perfect modern manual to getting established in the voice acting industry. *Learn insider tips on finding work, making audition tapes and establishing yourself as a professional voice over actor *Gain expert advice on how to keep your voice in top condition *Perfect your performing skills using easy-to-follow voice exercises and demos on CD Rom  By: Elaine A. Clark List Price: $18.95 Amazon Price: $12.89 Editorial Review: Aimed at seasoned actors as well as vocal talents who lack show-biz experience, this career manual offers the most complete guide to a lucrative field. Voices are increasingly in demand for commercials, cartoon characters, announcements, and other voice-over spots. This outstanding handbook explains how to launch a career and find work. Along with sample commercials and script copy, the author gives advice on vocal exercises, on self-promotion, and on business matters, and this expanded edition includes new tips on making a demo CD; vocal modulation and breath techniques; advanced copy-reading techniques; and a section on how copywriters see the job of the voice artists they write for.  By: Janet Wilcox List Price: $24.95 Amazon Price: $16.47 Editorial Review: Ever been told you have a great voice? Put it to use with a career as a voice-over actor! In Voice-Overs, a veteran voice-over actor, writer, producer, and voice-over teacher provides the inside scoop on the industry and gives all the tools needed for personal training. This one-of-a-kind resource includes a CD featuring vocal exercises and exclusive interviews with voice-over actors. A treasure trove of exercises, games, and improv and acting techniques helps readers build their skills. Sample scripts from real ads provide practice, and interviews with agents, casting directors, and producers provide insights that will help new voice-over actors get started and get hired. Tips on making a demo, auditioning, getting an agent, interpreting copy, developing a personal marketing plan, and much more mean that soon that great voice will be bringing in income as well as compliments. |
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