How to become a national recording artist
Every marathon starts with a step. A corny cliche? Probably. But within every cliché there is a kernel of truth. And before you become a nationally known recording artist, you need to build the right foundation for your career.
The first step is to build your local fan base. So take action where and when you can. Play showcases at music clubs. Look for open mic nights. Plan your own showcase. Offer to play at a free concert and at a local club and send invitations to all your friends. Wherever you perform, get as many people as possible to attend. So post the event on Facebook. Send a tweet.
Look for jobs that promote your music and put you in contact with music industry professionals, such as a studio backup singer. Get an agent and have them send you out on auditions to be a commercial jingle singer. These jobs are not only great ways to mingle, they also pay well.
Hone your songwriting skills. While talented singers and musicians are always in high demand, those who write their own material are especially prized. Being a singer-songwriter doubles your chances of landing a label deal. Many successful artists started out by writing songs for other well-known singers.
Promote yourself virally. Create a fun, easy-to-use website, then rent a professional digital recorder and make a high-quality video to upload to your site. Again, use Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking sites to promote your video.
Once you’ve built up a following, both local and online, it’s time to get a record deal. Start by preparing a promotional package. Take a professional photo, make copies of any reviews you may have, and write a short but engaging cover letter to introduce yourself.
The most important part of your package is a demo. If you write your own songs, record them. If you cover songs, select songs that best showcase your voice rather than choosing a song because it’s popular. And never try to sound like anyone else; trust your own style.
When you meet a label, keep your appearance in mind. First impressions are important. And most importantly, be positive and professional. Show them that you are artistically and personally ready to be a national recording star!