A Modern Musicians Handbook - The Do's and Don'ts
May 20 2011, 01:52 PM
Filed in: Opinion
I have decided to write another rant, but this time a more informative one. I figured now that I have some valuable experience under my belt, why not share some advice/lessons I have learned over the years in hopes to help the developing artists out. (If you are not a band, artist or someone in music - this will bore you).
Here is a bunch of info that I would have loved to hear first hand when I was my own artist/band playing shows, touring, spending $, etc...
1 ) How can I get signed?
Well, How many people are coming out to your live shows on a regular basis? How many 'records' or singles are you selling? Is this generating enough of a buzz to interest industry professionals? How about generating an income? In most cases, to be honest, no one wants to sign you unless you're really worth their while. Are your sales going to amount to paying for some of the marketing costs / salaries associated with hiring a team? Having a label behind you is essentially just having a big team of experienced professionals (in some cases) working your music for you. If you're not making tens of thousands of dollars, why bother?
I mean, if you're making tens of thousands, why not just keep re-investing it in your band? What it comes down to is timing. Dont jump the gun with this one, you may burn bridges...
2) I've booked my own tours, now I'm ready for a booking agency... right?
Not necessarily. If you can be booking yourselves consistently with other bands and be breaking even on your shows / tour expenses - you're doing great. In most cases, if you're not a top priority artist at an agency, then giving away a percentage to them - for booking you little to no shows - is not as beneficial as having the freedom to book as much as you want. Most (if not all) booking contracts are exclusive. That means that if you are not on the top of their list and they are not actively booking you... you are sitting at home waiting for 'the big tour' to come along and pick you up. Unless you've got a song charting, you're bringing in a decent crowd and generating a stable income as a business... you're not gonna get picked up, and will be more successful doing it yourself.
3) My music is really good! I think its time I get a manager!
Be careful. There are a lot of people out there that promise the world and dont deliver much, but a financial disaster and thousands in legal fees (been there, done that). This is your career, your music, and ultimately your life - so be very careful with who you hand it over to. Many musicians have been burned out of careers because of their 'team' or lack there of. A manager is simply an adviser... If you've got good judgement, save yourself the 15-20% you would give up otherwise. The right opportunity will present itself when you're so busy with the music, that you can't keep up with the business.
One general thing to consider: Sure, you want a manager, label, publicist, booking agent, etc. but are you ready for it? In most cases bands constantly bug managers, label reps etc time after time, but in the end - no one will work with you if you dont catch their interest in a new creative and impressive manner. No more press kits, no more spammy emails, phone calls etc. Save your money and time for something more constructive and beneficial to your careers. Stop spamming and start taking action, creatively.
4) Vote for Me! Vote for Me!
As I sit at my desk every morning with my coffee catching up on bands/artists.. I sigh and think to myself "Ahh, its voting season again". Fox Seeds, Warped Tour, SuperNova, Battle of the Bands, etc etc etc... every band has done it and continues to do it.. but how dull is it for the fans to see the "Vote for me" message, day after day after day. Unless its for an MMVA, or something that is a legitimate award to a bands accomplishment... the "vote for me" thing is old and repetitive. Solution: Engage the audience. Why not put a little twist on it. Try running a contest? Give away some merch for votes? or an experimental marketing campaign. Dont be afraid to take the risk and try something fun and different... you're most likely on the right path if you do anything other than a "PLEASE VOTE FOR ME AND HELP ME!!!" message, day after day, after day. Enough said lol.
5) We've made a couple bucks playing shows... What should we invest in?
a) The most valuable asset to any band or artist is the music. Invest as much time into your song writing as possible. Great songs are great songs... anything that follows will supplement the integrity of the songs.
b) Your live show. Any music gear you need to enhance your sound and performance... dont get into lighting, that isn't your responsibility (been there done that lol)
c) Quality Recording, mixing and mastering. There is a reason why going to a pro with a good reputation costs... because you want your sound to be at a world-class caliber, and that is what they will deliver. Your music that you record will have a lasting impression on people - so make it a good, memorable one!
d) Refer to steps: A, B and C
e) Your online marketing, merchandise and overall band 'brand'. I only say this because I've been there, not because I'm trying to sell you on a Myspace design, logo etc. Seriously, if the fans are having fun, you look professional online and you are promoting a unique brand, you're complimenting the amazing song that you just recorded for way too much money - you're #winning. (Besides, Myspace is not where its at - You are reading this on Facebook after all)
Hope this was informative! If there is something you'd like to specifically know about dont hesitate to ask...
Hope you enjoyed my rant, 'til next time!
Jeff Ojeda
Harmonic Concepts
Find Jeff and his company online here:
http://facebook.com/jeffojeda
http://twitter.com/jeffojeda
http://www.facebook.com/HarmonicConcepts
http://www.twitter.com/harmonicconcept
