Thursday, June 25, 2009

How to Get Signed to a Record Label - Tips in Making Your Demo

Your demo is your key to making a great first impression to the record label and eventually, your ticket on how to get signed to a record label. Therefore, it is important that you make your demo right and appealing as well.

Making a good demo may be an important requirement on how to get signed to a record label, but it does not assure you of any recording contract. Of course, record labels are considering many factors - your kind of music, your appeal and charisma, your versatility and most importantly, the marketability of your music - although you can always get a chance to prove it to them if you impress them with your demo.

Here are some tips on making your demo and sending them out to record labels.

* Making your demo does not have to be very expensive. Although you have to make sure that it is done professionally. Get rid as much as possible of bad recording that may ruin the brilliance of your composition. If you cannot have a good quality recording at home, go to some studios that may not cost too much. Indeed, some record labels may understand that you are just starting out but make sure also that you give your best because not too many have second chances.

* Choose demo songs that will capture the attention of your audience right from the start. Make sure your demo does not bore your listener. Choose something that you think will be a great piece to sell to the market.

* Pick a few demo songs and do not overwhelm the record label with all of your collections since childhood. Carefully select just few tracks that you think are attention-grabber and marketable. Reserve those other tracks if they want to see more.

* Know your music. It is important that you know the genre that you want to pursue. One wise thing you can do before going to all record labels is to have a list of labels. Check out who are most likely to get interested in your type of music. Sending your demo to the right label may save you time and effort.

* Before you send your demo to the label, make sure you know their rules on accepting demos - check the acceptable format or is there a specific person you need to get in touch with or if it is acceptable to send the demo yourself. Other labels may not accept demos directly from new artists, which means you need representation. So you might want to know the guidelines first before going to the label.

* When you send your demo to the record label, make sure you give them your email or phone number. Give them many options to contact you, so don't just leave a number.

Sending your demo may get frustrating at times, especially if you do not get to hear anything in return. You can do a follow-up though, but even if your demo is turned down, always keep a positive attitude. Some famous artists have been turned down the first time they send in their demos, so always be nice and well mannered. Who knows, you might get your second chance.

Carolyn Anderson writes about music and entertainment. To get to the most trusted and comprehensive music industry registry, check out AandR Online. If you re check out Rocket Piano Course, where you find the most comprehensive piano playing course.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.