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Step 1
Choose an instrument to reflect your style. An indie musician can write using guitar, piano, brass instruments, flutes or even a kazoo. In indie music, it's all good. Choose an instrument that makes you comfortable and compose a riff or melody.
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Step 2
Write catchy, individualistic lyrics. Whether they're about a lover or a trip to the zoo, put in a quirky, intellectual or historic reference at least once in the song. It'll help your song stand out from the others tunes on the 'net and on the radio, and give you or your band an identity.
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Step 3
Develop a distinctive vocal style. Listen to the rocking vocals of bands like the Strokes or the Killers or the subdued style of artists like My Morning Jacket for inspiration. Fit the vocal phrasing to match the lyrics and melody.
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Step 4
Rewrite the song even if it sounds perfect. Even if it takes all night, refine the lyrics and riffs until they sound exactly like they do in your head. Then perfect all the instrument's bass, drums, guitars and keyboards until the music has a seamless but distinctive sound.
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Step 5
Record all demo versions of your music. An indie artist often releases several versions of their music. The vinyl version of a song can be slightly different from the CD or MP3 version.
