Sorry that it’s been soooo long since I last posted here. But I’ve been busy opening a NEW Recording Studio, training/hiring new engineers/producers, teaching recording classes, training an Elementary school choir for a big, upcoming Christmas performance, and quite frankly… CHASING PAPER!!!
But even through all of that, I still get this question when I meet with most new artists that I am consulting or working with… "How can I get a record deal?"
The answer is somewhat complex in this day and age within the music industry. With so many things changing at a neck-breaking pace, record labels are often changing their approach when looking for artists to sign to their label.
However, there are still some fundamental things you can work towards that can increase your chances of locking down that record deal you dream of.
Here are 3 basics "tips," that EVERY label (that is still in business… lol) is looking for. You’ll agree that these things are very simple, and artists should be doing these things to be evolving with their music. Also, keep in mind that that so many music acts out there are NOT growing and following these steps, so going back to the basics could be the difference for you...
3 Basic Tips:
1. Having The Best Music:
I know, this goes without saying, but you’d be surprised by the number of artists that just don’t pay enough attention to their actual music.
Most people end up getting “blinded” by the truth, because of close friends and family giving them praise for the music that they’re putting out. Always look for people who can give you a non-bias opinion about your sound, and don’t be afraid to take criticism. They are NOT just “HATERS!!! It’s the "honesty" that makes you grow the most…
Also, make sure your current sound is somewhat in line to what’s popular within today's actual style of music. Record labels aren’t looking to go too far "outside the box," when it comes to their current and future signings. Always make sure that your music is the absolute BEST it can be. Don't buy those NEW JORDANS!! Instead, invest that money into getting your music properly mixed/mastered. Be patient, make it the best it can be and release your music ONLY when it is ready…
2. Having A Ton of Fans:
Nothing will get a record label more excited than signing an act that has a ton of fans!
Actually, if just this one area is strong, everything else can (sometimes) be overlooked, including having great music. But don’t count your lucky stars that this is going to happen to you. Most of the time, stories like that are made from “American Idol” finalists and rarely translate to your everyday, average, up and coming," music act.
Regardless, artists must ALWAYS try to work on building a solid and supportive fan base for their music because it’s going to be a main factor in helping the artist build their careers and eventually receive a record deal.
And quite honestly, most labels are "lazy" with new artists, and will use your existing fans to build a much larger fan base, as opposed to trying to build your fan base from nothing.
3. Be Proactive:
Being proactive is underestimated and COMPLETELY underused.
If you’re working on growing your music career five days a week and someone else of equal talent is only putting in three, there’s no doubt who’s going to make the most moves forward to get a record deal… YOU!
One of the best things an artist can do to increase their chances of getting a record deal is to breaking up the responsibilities to various members of the group/team (if you have a team… if you don’t, think about putting one together). This technique adds accountability for actions and also increases the overall productivity of the artist’s/team’s growth.
Once you start to make strides in all areas of your career, you can then be very aggressive when it comes to really learning how to get a record deal.
Start off by finding the labels you would want to get signed to, learn their contact information and start being proactive by contacting them and making them aware of your music.
Ok, so I can talk/write about this for hours, but I think you get the idea. If you have more detailed questions, feel free to contact me directly. Thanks!!
