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For young recording artists, getting your foot into the door of the music industry can be an extremely frustrating affair. Jesus Zeus Salas, a twenty year veteran of broadcast radio, has a few suggestions for anyone who aspires to a career as a musician, regardless of genre. Read on for a Jesus Zeus Salas’ tips for breaking into the music business. Tip #1: Distinguish Yourself Bands, rappers, and DJs are a dime a dozen, so one of the biggest parts of securing a contract with a record label is establishing a distinct sound and personality for yourself. Before chasing the dream of a record deal, knuckle down and hone your skill, and develop a strong, unique image and sound. Although it might be frustrating in the short term to keep practicing instead of shooting straight to the top, the time you spend now will be well worth it later when your music is recognizable as yours. Tip #2: Network Professionally The music business is still a business, so the principles of networking and professionalism still apply. Contact anyone you know who might be able to introduce you to people who can help you succeed, and always be prompt and dependable. Always be sure to thank those who connect you with success. Tip #3: Be Prolific Record a demo, and have a selection of music to sell or give to your contacts. Playing live shows is also an excellent way to garner a following, practice performing, and get your name out there. The more you produce and the more you play, the more people that will hear you. Tip #4: Be Business Smart As a professional musician, you won’t just be playing music. You’ll be dealing with people who may want to profit off of your work at little or no benefit to you, and you’ll have the opportunity to make many, many financial decisions. Regardless of your success with your following, you still need to be able to feed yourself, pay the rent, and afford to tour, so consider taking a business class or two, or at the very least finding a mentor who can guide you. Tip #5: Don’t Wait to Be Discovered Although there’s significant glory in a record company contacting you with the offer of a contract, more often than not you will have to be the one to reach out first. Do your research, and find labels that tend to back artists similar to you. Call ahead to find out exactly whom to send your materials to, and then request that the label listen to your demo and review your press kit. Then, of course, follow up, be patient, and persevere. Sources:
http://money.howstuffworks.com/how-to-get-a-record-deal.htm
http://musiciancoaching.com/music-business/how-to-make-it-in-the-music-industry/
http://musicians.about.com/od/musicindustrybasics/p/musicrules.htm
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