How to Get Into the Music Business as a Songwriter

Songwriting is a competitive career move.

The music industry is difficult to break into because a large number of people want to do it, and there is strong competition. Those who wish to make a living as a songwriter should not only hone their skills, but also understand the music industry, so efforts to market the songwriter’s abilities won’t be wasted. The music industry needs songwriters to create songs for musical artists who do not have the time or ability to write captivating songs on their own.

Things You'll Need

• Instrument
• Recording device

Instructions

1. Practice writing songs. Determine what the songs you write are about. Songwriting sometimes expresses an emotion or insight. Other times, songs tell a story or talk about an experience. The song may evolve as you write it, but having an original plan will help keep the lyrics focused. Write as many songs as you can, so you’ll have several to sample from when you choose to create your first demo.

2. Learn about the basics of law as it relates to songwriting, including copyright laws and music royalties.

3. Record a demo with your best three songs. Have the demo reviewed by a songwriting organization, so you can receive feedback and make improvements to the songs.

4. Study the music industry and listen to new songs. Get a sense of what types of lyrics and melody styles are considered current.

5. Study various music companies and determine which are most likely to buy your style of lyrics. Also, determine the submission rules for the company and send the submission following those rules. Normally, songwriters send a press kit, which contains the song demos and explains who you are.

6. Network with anyone connected with the music industry. Those connected to the industry can give you advice on how to break into the music business and may recommend you.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn an instrument. While songwriters are not required to play instruments, knowing an instrument will help with song creation, giving you a better sense of how the words sound when accompanied by music. Learning to sing relatively well will help for the same reason.

• Join a songwriter’s organization. These organizations provide support, give critiques and help songwriters establish contacts in the music industry.

• Pursue a second career while pursing your songwriting career. Breaking into songwriting is difficult and you will need an income until you receive work in the music industry.

• Consider writing song lyrics meant to appeal to different age groups. If your music doesn’t appeal to teens, consider marketing to older music lovers.

• Before signing a contract, make sure a music lawyer looks over the contract to determine exactly what you’re agreeing to.

References

• World of Songwriting: 10 Steps to Success
• Song Makes Music Business: How to Become a Songwriter?
• Careers in Music: How to Become a Successful Independent Artist or Songwriter