How could I get a career in the music industry?
Question by CMH218: How could I get a career in the music industry?
I’m really interested in getting a job in the music industry. I know that I’m destined for it and so many people think that I should get a record deal because I’m a pretty good singer. Does anyone have suggestions for getting a big break?
Best answer:
Answer by Bella
It’s a long, gruelling battle if you want to make it to the top, so be prepared to shed blood, sweat and tears. Figuratively.
First become a sort of celebrity in your local area. You need to be popular with the people who live near you before you can get out onto the global stage, because they are the ones who will help you. Take a trip into the center of your town and look at what places may need acts. Let the owners know that you’re available. Annual festivals such as craft festivals, malls with regular store openings and live music restaurants/bars are places that will always need acts. Check out what celebrities are touring near you and call up asking to be the opening act – but make sure the celebrities are your style. It’s no use a country singer opening for a heavy metal or hip hop act, because none of the people there will be interested in you. Talk to local journalism projects about writing about you.
Open a Myspace, YouTube, Twitter, etc. account and update it regularly. Keep in touch with your fans and they will stay loyal. You’re going to keep doing these two things right up until you hit the big time, and if you’re grateful to your fans then you may even keep doing the second.
Get yourself represented by an agent and manager (manager optional). They will help you get more and bigger gigs and manage publicity and finance. They should be advertised in phonebooks and magazines/newspapers.
Record a demo CD. You don’t need to hire out a big expensive recording studio to do this – a good quality desktop microphone will do the job just fine. Start handing out CDs at your “concerts”, along with other merchandise. Don’t forget to do this online, too!
Create a promo package which includes your demo, a photo, a bio and a list of the gigs you’ve played. Send it to record companies with your and your agent’s contact details (ie; email addresses). About two months later send a followup email, but DON’T ask if they liked it or not. Also avoid calling the label – never a good idea as it’s awkward on both sides. Remember to check the website of the label beforehand and their demo policy – some labels will not accept unsolicited demos.
If they like your stuff, they will ask to sign you (but remember to hire an entertainment lawyer before signing anything!) and if not, keep trying at other labels. Remember to update your online profiles, your demo CDs, your promo package, everything, it will keep you current.
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