How to Become a Singer for RCA
American Idols, metal bands and R&B sirens all call RCA records home. These label mates may not share the same musical interests, but they all benefit from the reputation that their label has maintained for decades. New artists yearn for the clout that a label like RCA can bring. Here’s how to become a singer for RCA.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Create a demo. Not having a demo is the equivalent of being caught with the proverbial pants down for any artist. It is key to have a CD, DAT or DVD available at all times that showcase artists talent. Artists should also have MP3s available on websites and video performances on YouTube. Labels like RCA need to know that the artist can handle him or herself.
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2
Network with RCA artists. This may sound impossible for someone with no industry contacts. Networking, however, consists of any level of contact that can be attained with an artist. Join message boards on artist sites and post about anything to get the artist’s attention from a music perspective. Surprisingly, many artists connect with fans on their sites. Artists like Alicia Keys are known for seeking out their fans. General music message boards like okayplayer.com are also great places to communicate directly with an artist.
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3
Live in a major city. Labels like RCA have offices on each coast and in several major cities between the coasts. Nothing beats face-to-face access with an RCA rep. They can get a feel for an artist that they may not get with video. It’s important to be persistent but stop short of becoming a pest. As a rule, give an RCA rep all materials available from the artists like a press kit and any audio or video. Contact the rep when there is new music or video to show them. The artist may have had a particularly good performance at a local festival that will standout to the label rep.
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Visit the RCA website. Find out when there are events for RCA artists that the potential RCA artist can attend. It doesn’t necessarily matter if the genre of the event is not in line with the artist’s music. Label reps from each genre know one another and can make a necessary referral. It also gives that much more exposure for the artist.
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Perform for anyone who will allow the artist to get on the stage. The more opportunities to showcase talent will give the artist more chances for RCA to find them and sign them.
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