Imagine yourself standing in front of over 20,000 fans in a sold-out venue where all you can hear is cheering. Now that’s the life.
That is, the life of a very select group of musicians who happen to have overwhelmingly successful careers. All of that may seem almost impossible, and there are plenty of people who go on for years without any segue into the major music industry.
There are still dozens of major record labels, however, that have signed with countless artists. By following some guidelines, you could be that much closer to winning over a label and landing a record deal because, as you know, life’s short, and it’s better to win.
Some might say there’s a routine process to go through in order to get a recording contract. According to Steve Richer, a lifestyle correspondent for AskMen.com, recording a demo is the smartest move you can make.
In addition, getting a manager and befriending virtually anyone in the industry, from deejays to promoters, will only benefit you. As a musician, your job is to entertain; the marketing side will be up to the others.
After finding representation, contacting labels and sending out press kits that contain the demo, photos and an artists’ resume is the next vital step.
“This is your most important marketing tool … [so] it must be clear, concise and provide an idea of your band at a glance,” Richer said. “Your manager or entertainment lawyer should send the package. A&R [Artist and Repertoire] executives will be much more receptive than if it’s sent by the artist himself. Otherwise, chances are your press kit will end up in the recycling bin.”
On the other hand, some artists feel that there is no specific process that can guarantee a record deal. Jon McLaughlin, an artist who has a contract with Island Records and recently performed at the Crocodile Cafe in downtown Seattle, is just one of many who believe that theory.
“As cliché as it is, good music is good music,” McLaughlin said. “There are exceptions to every rule, but for the most part when someone really has something special to offer, it comes through,”
The whole idea of getting a recording contract can be both scary and exciting, but the key here is to be patient. McLaughlin has been making music for over 20 years, has had a recording contract for two of those years, and is just now releasing his debut album Indiana, due out tomorrow.
His advice for those aspiring to break into the music industry is this: “Practice as much as you can and worry less about which shirt to wear.”
Reach columnist Sheena Nguyen at features@thedaily.washington.edu
[Resource http://thedaily.washington.edu/article/2007/4/30/howToWinARecordingContract]
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