How to Get Your Song on the Charts
If you have written a great song, you may be eager to get it on the charts. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done. You'll have to jump through a number of hoops just to get your song heard by people that can help you. The key is to cast as wide a net as possible and be persistent. It may take years and a lot of hard work, but getting your song on the charts is by no means impossible.
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Instructions
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Record a demo. The first step to getting your song heard by others is to record a demo. Using a USB microphone and audio editing software, you can easily record your own song. However, if you have the money, renting a studio and recording your song with a professional will make it sound even better and help your chances.
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Put your song online on social networks, independent music websites and video services. Use every resource available to promote yourself. The Internet makes it possible, even if a bit unlikely, to achieve commercial success independently. The more people hear your song, the more likely you are to achieve commercial success.
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Put your song on a CD and have a record release party. Send out press releases with a sample of your single and pictures to local papers and music companies. If you generate enough buzz, industry scouts will come to your show and hear your song. Once you have been signed to a label, you can record your single professionally and film a music video. If you get your song played on television, the Internet and the radio, your song will begin to show up on the charts.
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Send your song to as many people as possible. Mail your single to talent agencies and record companies. See if your local record store distributes independent releases and ask them to stock your single. Visit people in person whenever possible, and try to talk to people directly. Send your record to local radio stations that play similar songs. If the record station plays your song, more people will hear your song, and with proper representation, your song can grow into a national hit. Don't forget indie record stores and websites, which are more likely to play unsolicited songs.
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Enter your song in contests. Several companies and organizations run songwriting contests every year. This a great way to get your song heard by insiders and get money to invest back into your music. In some cases, the prize is a record deal.
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Talk to as many people as possible. Look for events in your city and town that music insiders might attend. Go to concerts and speak to the musicians. Always keep a copy of your demo with you and hand it out to as many people as possible. Whenever possible, follow up and ask the person if they listened to your song. Don't be afraid of criticism.
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Listen to the charts. Stay aware of the kinds of songs on the charts and where your own song would fit in. Don't copy what you hear, but try to incorporate current stylistic elements into your own songwriting.
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Tips & Warnings
Seriously consider whether or not your song can be a commercial success. Play it for a friend and ask for some honest feedback.
Don't give up. The music business is incredibly competitive. You will probably fail several times before you're successful.
There are a lot of scams online offering shortcuts to success for a fee. If someone offers to help you with your career, be careful and avoid giving people money up front.
References
Resources
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