How to Approach a Record Label – Part 1
In the first of a new series of articles, Qmuso brings you essential information from people who work directly in the music and media industries. In order to make this series as useful as possible, we have hooked up with a range of small businesses who can offer practical advice based on first hand experience. We kick off with an article by one of the UK’s hottest independent labels, Covert Recording, on how to get your music noticed.
For any artist trying to gain recognition and secure that elusive deal, it is essential to get your music heard by the right people within the music industry. However, many artists make basic mistakes that result in their material being looked upon unfavourably or in many cases completely ignored.
To help you avoid these pitfalls we have put together some basic, but important tips. Although there is no guaranteed formula that will secure you a record deal, understanding how to approach a label will greatly increase your chances of success.
The basics
Every label has a designated person or department that deals with new artists they may wish to sign. These people / departments are referred to as “A and Rs” which is short for Artist and Repertoire. When sending your material to them it is essential to understand that you are trying to achieve 3 basic objectives:
1. Get you music heard
2. Introduce yourself as a person (are you deep and meaningful, bubbly, outrageous?)
3. Demonstrate that you are professional and motivated
The Correct Approach
- Before contacting a label, do some basic research so you understand their philosophy and business approach. Some labels are all about the music and some are all about the money. Have a read through their web sites and find the labels that suit you.
- Ensure you only approach labels that deal with your genre of music. Sending an RnB track to a metal label is rather pointless.
- Find out the correct person/department to contact before you send any further information or demos. If this information is not given on their web site then email their general address (e.g. info@recordlabel.com) and just ask who you should send demos to.
- Make it clear from the start who you are e.g. “I’m a 20 year old female RnB singer from London with 2 years experience recording and performing. I came first in a competition on my local radio station searching for new talent”.
- Do not under any circumstance say things like “I am the next Beyonce” or “I’m here to change the scene”. It is good to be positive about yourself but always display some modesty.
- Only send a biography if it contains something interesting about you and demonstrates that you are focussed and hard working. If your biography makes you look either lazy or dull then do not send one.
- If you wish to include a couple of photos that’s fine but ensure they show you in a positive light and be conscious of the image you are portraying.
- Give the label time to listen to your demo material a few times so they can make a considered judgement. Remember, many songs take a while to grow on people. Labels are often very busy so do not call up the next day asking why they haven’t got back to you. It is however perfectly acceptable to phone up after a week and just check they received your music and try and find out what they thought. Try to display initiative rather than appear pushy.
- Learn to take criticism. It is the job of the label to transform you from a bedroom singer into a professional star. Welcome any advice you can get even if it appears negative – you will probably appreciate it in years to come.
- Do not make up fake reviews saying how amazing you are. Do not lie about where you have performed either. Be aware that the music industry is a tight-knit community and people will quickly find out if you are lying to them.
- Always be yourself. Aim to be original rather than a carbon copy of artists in the charts. Do not try to guess what sort of music the label is looking for – just do what you do best and hope someone likes it.
- If you are lucky enough to get a face to face meeting with someone from the label then treat it like a job interview. Turn up on time, be polite and professional, get all your good points across and know what you want from the situation.
- Always be realistic and don’t come across childish. You are not yet a star – you are just one of thousands of people dreaming of success. Don’t expect the label to pay for a big budget video with you flying around in a helicopter as it’s not going to happen!
- Most importantly, do not sign ANY contract without seeking legal advice.
Continue to Part 2 of this article
———————————————————————————————————————-
All text Copyright 2009 Covert Recording Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Covert Recording is an independent UK label with in house production, digital distribution and marketing facilities.
2 Responses to “How to Approach a Record Label – Part 1”
Leave a Reply
Useful post, a lot of good points here
hey guys, we found this here after an quick google search. Neat post you got here! Keep it up!