How to Get Noticed by a Record Label Josh Gruss
As musicians, we tend to strive for that one, dream goal: to be signed to a record label. It's the easiest way to actually make bank doing what you love; they take care of marketing, production, booking, and you get paid for it too! But years of hard work and songwriting can take you nowhere when it comes to getting on a record label, and a lot of us can feel defeated when confronted with the reality that what we are doing just isn't working. So the real question is: Playing Local Gigs One aspect that a lot of groups or individuals tend to neglect is exposure. Free exposure, often. It is vital to play local gigs; this builds a potential fan base, gains you recognition for your work, and could even directly attract an executive with a label. You never know! Social Media Yeah, you have a Facebook page. But if you aren't posting on it constantly, simultaneously
promoting key posts that you want to have added exposure, then your page is doing you no good. Posting regularly on a variety of social media outlets, like Instagram, Twitter and Soundcloud too, builds your presence and gets you followers that become your fan base. Speaking of fans... Interact with Your Fans If you are just starting out, it is crazy important that you interact with your fans. Reply to their messages and emails. When they comment on your photos, reply to their comments, or a simple like will do too. Fans like being talked to. They feel closer to you as an artist when you do this, and will feel more obliged to come to your shows and rep your merch. This is how you begin to actually make it. Once you have fans, followers, and regular attendees at your shows, the higher ups will notice. Quality, Quality, Quality No one wants to sign music with no direction, individuality, or listen-ability. They want professional work, written well, preferably catchy and universal. If you cater to a specific taste, that's okay, as long as you're good at what you do. Practice regularly and study current groups that are signed onto record labels to improve your songwriting. A good performer with a passion for what they do and work that people can connect with has a better chance than one more disconnected from the general public. Have a Strong Brand A logo and a solid name are key for attracting audiences and subsequently attracting label execs. A simple symbol can make all the difference, especially when it comes to merchandise and your public image. Something attractive and modern will intrigue potential listeners. Another way to build your brand is to have an official website, and make sure to have your contact info listed so folks can contact and/or book you. You have the music. You have the passion and drive, you just don't have the backing of a label. But if you follow these easy guidelines and work hard at what you do, that record deal will practically fall in your lap. Josh Gruss is the Chairman, CEO and founder of Round Hill Music