If you're planning a visit to Nashville and aim to make connections in the music industry, it’s important to realize that simply handing out CDs of your music is unlikely to yield results. The music scene in Nashville is highly competitive, filled with singers, songwriters, and professionals who are often too busy to listen to unsolicited music from unknown artists. Although breaking through and getting noticed is challenging, approaching it strategically can significantly improve your chances.
How to Submit Your Music Effectively
Prepare Your Presentation
The first step is to ensure you have high-quality demos—short recordings that demonstrate your musical abilities. If you're a songwriter looking to pitch your songs to publishers, a simple guitar/vocal or piano/vocal demo will suffice. Publishers are primarily interested in the quality of the songwriting, not the production, so a basic home recording can work as long as it is in tune, keeps time, and clearly presents the vocals and chords. If you can't produce this level of recording on your own, seek help or wait until you can. Avoid adding additional instruments or harmonies unless they are professionally done; poorly executed tracks can be more detrimental than having no extra production at all.
Always include a typed lyric sheet with your demos. This should list any co-writers and clearly display your contact information. The lyrics should be arranged on a single page in a way that makes the song structure obvious.
For those pitching themselves as artists to record labels, managers, or booking agents, it's crucial to have professionally produced recordings that showcase your unique sound. High-quality recordings demonstrate your commitment and the seriousness with which you approach your career, which is essential because top industry professionals generally do not work with beginners. The more polished and impressive your recordings, the better your chances of attracting attention.
If you're still in the early stages and seeking co-writers or collaborators to help you advance your career, simpler recordings that meet the basic quality guidelines mentioned earlier will suffice.
In addition to good recordings, artists should have at least one high-quality photo and an artist page on Facebook, along with a simple website. The website doesn't need to be elaborate, but it should include a photo, a brief biography, contact details, music samples or links to your music online, a schedule of upcoming performances, and links to your social media profiles. A strong social media presence can also make a positive impression on industry professionals and help you stand out.
Make Your Music Accessible Online
One of the most effective ways to increase your chances of being heard is by making your music available online. While some artists worry about song theft, the benefits of having your music accessible to potential listeners and industry professionals far outweigh the risks. Barbara, an experienced Nashville music professional, has never witnessed a song being stolen during her time in the industry. Moreover, if your music is good enough to be stolen, it's likely good enough to earn you a deal quickly. Making your music available online gives interested parties immediate access to it, so it's important to make the listening process as easy as possible.
When preparing your submission, carefully select your strongest songs. It's often difficult to be objective about your own work, so seeking outside opinions can be helpful. If you manage to secure an appointment or are asked to submit music, avoid overwhelming the recipient with too many songs. Choose three to five tracks that best represent your abilities. If you have a full-length album, indicate which songs you would like them to focus on. It’s important to showcase your authentic self rather than trying to guess what you think they might like. Genuine artists have a better chance of making a lasting impression. Additionally, keep in mind that upbeat songs tend to be in higher demand than ballads, so be sure to include any strong uptempo tracks you may have.
Seek Permission Before Submitting
It’s important to understand that most music businesses in Nashville do not accept unsolicited material. This policy exists because of the overwhelming volume of aspiring songwriters and artists, as well as the potential legal risks of accepting unsolicited music, such as being accused of plagiarism. While it is possible to get permission to submit your music by cold-calling, having a referral from someone within the industry is often necessary.
Where to Submit Your Music
When considering where to submit your music, it’s important to understand that record labels listen to songs and artists primarily to find material for the artists they already have under contract. This process is managed by the Artist and Repertoire (A&R) department, which is responsible for scouting and developing talent. However, even if your music makes it to the A&R department, there’s no guarantee that it will be pitched to industry professionals or see the light of day. Therefore, it’s crucial to be cautious and conduct thorough research before engaging with any company.
Be Wary of Scams and Empty Promises
The music industry, like any other, has its share of scams and individuals or services that prey on aspiring artists. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
1. **Song Pluggers or Demo Services Promising Guaranteed Success**: Be cautious of individuals or services that claim they can guarantee your success in the music industry. Building a successful career takes time, effort, talent, and connections—there are no shortcuts. Legitimate industry professionals are selective and work with artists based on the quality of their work, their potential, and how they fit within the current market.
2. **Exorbitant Fees for Services**: While there are legitimate costs associated with pursuing a music career, such as for recording demos, professional photos, or consultations, be wary of excessively high fees. It's wise to compare prices and ensure you're getting good value for your money. Remember, reputable professionals typically earn their income through a percentage of your future earnings, rather than requiring large upfront payments.
3. **Lack of Transparency or Pressure Tactics**: Avoid individuals or companies that use high-pressure sales tactics or lack transparency in their dealings. Legitimate professionals will be open and honest about their services, fees, and what you can expect from their involvement. Take the time to ask questions, seek recommendations, and trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Navigating the Music Industry with Professionalism
To succeed in the music industry, it's essential to approach your career with professionalism, diligence, and a clear understanding of how the industry operates. Focus on honing your craft, building genuine relationships with industry professionals, and being patient with the process. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. **Hone Your Craft**
Before anything else, ensure that your music is the best it can be. Whether you're a songwriter, a performer, or both, continually work on improving your skills. The quality of your music will always be the most important factor in your success. Take advantage of opportunities to learn and grow, whether through formal education, workshops, or simply through experience.
2. **Build Genuine Relationships**
Networking is crucial in the music industry, but it’s important to build genuine, mutually beneficial relationships rather than just seeking out what others can do for you. Attend industry events, writers’ rounds, and live performances to meet other musicians, songwriters, and industry professionals. Be respectful of others' time and always approach potential connections with sincerity and professionalism.
3. **Be Patient and Persistent**
Success in the music industry rarely happens overnight. It often takes years of hard work, persistence, and resilience. Rejection is a common part of the process, so it’s important to stay focused on your goals and not get discouraged by setbacks. Keep improving your craft, and don't be afraid to adjust your approach if necessary.
4. **Stay Informed and Avoid Pitfalls**
Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and potential pitfalls. This includes being aware of the common scams and red flags mentioned earlier. By staying informed, you can make better decisions and protect yourself from those who might try to take advantage of your ambitions.
5. **Leverage Technology and Social Media**
In today’s music industry, having a strong online presence is essential. Use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to share your music, connect with fans, and showcase your personality. Regularly update your followers with new content, whether it's music releases, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or announcements about upcoming shows. A strong and engaged online following can significantly boost your visibility and attract the attention of industry professionals.
6. **Protect Your Intellectual Property**
While it’s important to share your music widely, it’s also crucial to protect your intellectual property. Register your songs with the appropriate copyright office, and consider joining a performing rights organization (PRO) to ensure you receive royalties for your work. Having a clear understanding of your rights as a creator will help you navigate contracts and agreements more confidently.
7. **Seek Out Mentorship and Guidance**
Finding a mentor who has experience in the music industry can be incredibly valuable. A mentor can provide advice, share insights from their own career, and help you avoid common mistakes. Whether it’s a more experienced musician, a music teacher, or an industry professional, having someone to guide you can make a big difference in your career.
Conclusion
Breaking into the Nashville music industry is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Success requires not only talent but also strategic planning, professionalism, and a deep understanding of how the industry works. By preparing high-quality presentations, making your music accessible online, building genuine relationships, and staying informed about the industry, you can significantly improve your chances of making a lasting impact.
Remember, the path to success in the music industry is often long and winding. Stay patient, keep honing your craft, and don’t be afraid to take risks. With dedication and perseverance, you can turn your musical dreams into reality.
