How to Become a Song Artist
Music remains an important facet of society, as new artists who continue to enter the scene introduce the world to new sounds and influences. In order to become a part of this evolving musical landscape, you do not need to have a lot of money or prestige. You can get started as a music recording artist right now, no matter where you are in your life, but understand that you have a lot of hard work ahead of you.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Printer
- Digital audio software
- Musical instruments
- Printer paper
- Presentation folders
- Transparent notebook
- Digital camera
- CD-Rs
Instructions
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Find collaborators. If you want to become a solo artist and do not require a band or accompaniment, you can skip this step. Otherwise, find other musicians who can help you to make your musical dreams a reality. Online classifieds like Craigslist, Yahoo! Directory and Music Biz Classifieds contain listings by aspiring musicians just like yourself. Create a listing of your own and let other musicians know what you have to offer.
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Write songs. If you see yourself as more of a singer or performer and less of a songwriter, then have your collaborators assist you with the songwriting aspect. Either way, you will need to get some original songs together before you start recording and performing. Try to begin with at least four songs (enough for a standard demo recording).
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Record your demo. A demo is a short recording, typically consisting of 3 to 4 songs, that showcase an artist's best material. Your demo shows record labels, club promoters and booking agents what you can do. You have two basic options for recording a music demo: you can rent time in a professional recording studio, or you can record at home using digital recording software. If you choose to record on your own, make sure to familiarize yourself with the editing and mixing options provided with your software, and try to get the most professional-sounding mix possible.
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Create a press kit. A press kit should contain your complete contact information, a brief biography of your band or musical act, descriptions of each band member (if applicable), at least one photograph, a list of venues where you have performed (if applicable), any available press clippings and a list of songs with lyrics included. Present this information neatly in a presentation folder or transparent folder, along with a copy of your demo on a CD. Always keep a master copy of your press kit, and print extras for submission to record labels and booking agents.
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Promote your music on music-oriented social networks as well as general social networks like Facebook, MySpace, ReverbNation and iLike. Stream your demo songs, include photographs and biographical information (you can use the same content from your press kit) and reach out to fans.
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Contact local clubs about performing gigs. Always submit (or offer to submit) a copy of your press kit to establish your professionalism and give promoters a sense of your style. In the beginning you may need to perform for free, but this will help you to build up your fan base. In addition to contacting club owners, get to know the bands that frequent these venues. These types of valuable contacts can ultimately lead to gigs as well.
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Submit your demo to record labels. Try to stick with local and independent labels at first, as major labels seldom accept unsolicited demos. If you want to expand your performing horizons and tour on a national or even international scale, send your demo and press kit to booking agents. Keep networking and soon your dream of a musical career will become a reality.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit the musician. image by Serghei Velusceac from Fotolia.com
