How to face the music industry as an independent artist

 

These tips can really be applied to anyone venturing into any industry. Check ‘em out.

1.) Do not cold call.  In this day and age cold calls are just downright annoying and disruptive. Email and let it wait in their queue.

2.) See things their way. Regardless of your sound, you need to show industry reps that you have something going on and something that they could profit from investing in. You have to show them that you’re on the wright track without them and there is an urgency for them to get involved.

3.) Make them come to you. Focus on building your story and value. Instead of spending your time making cold calls and sending emails, spend your time building your plan and reaching out to media and promoters (a lot of which these tips can be used for as well). Also, don’t forget to perfect your craft.

4.) Come on easy.  Your initial email should never read “I would love to work with you, can you represent me?” Most of the industry people who are good at what they do like to have a personal relationships with their clients and their clients’ music.

5.) Be confident. If you are not proud of what you are sending them, do not send it. Period.

6.) Learn how to truly network. Get creative about meeting people and be genuine, this will go a long way.

7.) Be patient. There are simply not enough hours in a day to get to all the emails. Do not take it personally.

8.) Proofread your email. Grammar is important. You wouldn’t send a resume in with typos, would you?

9.) Never burn bridges.  Always keep your mind open and remember the industry is very connected. Everyone who is in it has fought to be where they are and will most likely value your career at some point.