When it comes to music, many people want to be a part of the industry whether they want to be an artist, producer, or a songwriter. However many people do not know what it takes to succeed. After sitting and thinking, I have put together a list of tips that I think are essential for artist that are trying to break out in the industry.
- Make Out A Plan AND A Budget- This goes with anything in life you will not get far if you do not have a plan together nor a budget. You have to invest in yourself, if you do not invest in yourself then why would you think that anybody else would invest their money in you? Also, be sure to have your money ready when you are ready to conduct business.
- Network..Network..NETWORK – In this industry, you HAVE to build relationships. You will not get far trying to do EVERYTHING on your own. Network on social media sites and get out in the streets. Building relationships can help you come across more opportunities.
- Be Professional - Although this is music it is STILL a business and you’re trying to make it a career. Therefore, you should have QUALITY music and make sure that ALL of your music is MIXED and/or MASTERED. Your music should not sound like you recorded from a cell phone or in a bathroom get in a studio! Lastly have an IMAGE. It is always important to have at least have ONE professional picture taken. Your look is JUST AS important as your music. I cannot STRESS this enough.
- Have a Media/Press Kit – This is your music resume. It is essential for sending to labels, A&R’s, managers, and anybody who is in the music industry. Get you one. If it is electronic you can also use it as your webpage.
- Know What Audience You're Trying To Target – Whether you agree or not demographics is important when it comes to making music. You have to think will you be more successful making “street” music or would you be more successful making music that females can dance to at the club? You also have to think which gender group is more likely to go out and actually BUY your music.
- Contact – When you contact someone and they do not answer unless you do not want a call back then be sure to leave a voicemail. When leaving a message state your reason for contacting him or her, tell how you received his or her contact information, state who you are, and be sure to leave a phone number that you can be contacted on as well. In addition, if someone in the industry GIVES you his or her contact information, be sure to contact him or her no later than 48 hours. You would not want to miss an opportunity due to not following up.
- Believe In Yourself – You have to remember that not EVERYBODY is going to like what you do. Do not let rejection stop you from doing what you love. If one door closes in your face, go to the next door. . You are your BIGGEST fan. If you don't believe in yourself NOBODY will.Remember one person’s no could be another’s person yes
- Talent – Be talented. If you want to be more than a one hit wonder. Then you need to make music people actually like because once people actually LIKE your music, the DJ plays will come along with it.
- Get Your Name Out There – If you are serious about music then you should be doing something EVERY DAY to contribute to you becoming successful in this field . Attend all the open mics you can attend, perform at local clubs, and participate in battlegrounds. Whatever you do just make sure you do not HALF do it, ALWAYS go HARD because this is your name and brand you are marketing. Do NOT LOOK for HANDOUTS. Make sure ALL your work ethic matchup. MAKE people want to sign you. Always remember you MAY have talent but if you do not know how to hustle/grind you will not get very far.
Remember that the music industry is an industry only a few will be lucky to succeed in. I hope that these tips will give you a better insight and open your mind as to WHAT you need to do to become successful in this industry.
