Attract Record Label

To attract record label attention usually requires a little finesse and inginuety.  As a musical artist, you are probably well aware of the fact that it is really hard to get signed by a record label, at least at first. Very few musicians just hit the stage to find instant success and land an immediate record deal and get signed.  Those bands lucky enough to find that kind of success are more often than not a one-hit wonder.  It is possible to grab the attention of record labels and have them come to you.  Attracting record label attention is desirable for more than one reason.

While many people want to get signed to a record label in hopes of making it big, there are those who may be interested in the advance checks that some of the major labels hand out, and while that is certainly something that would be enticing, that check will only last so long.  It is long-term success that you should be dreaming about and shooting for, if at all possible.  To give you a bit of a head start in your efforts to attract a record label and show them what you have to offer, here are some tips to help you out in getting started in the right direction.  Keep in mind they won't guarantee your success, but if you have what it takes and you use the exposure and element of attraction, then you may find these tips will work for you.

Open a MySpace Page

In today’s music industry, the internet is a huge part of what it takes to attract any type of attention at all, whether it the attention from record labels or from fans.  MySpace has surely made it much easier, allowing bands and singers to open up music profiles, in which they have a means of uploading music to a page, playing it and having it listened to.  Of course, it goes without saying; the music that you upload must be your own.  Do not use someone else’s music or other copy written material and claim it as your own without their knowledge, or you will be in violation (a big no, no!) and asking for legal trouble.

MySpace Friends

Requesting the friendship of people who might be interested in your music and interacting with people on the bulletin boards, responding to messages, leaving comments—this is how a MySpace profile artist or group could gain thousands of friends and attract mega attention, both on and off the internet. Some record labels sign artists when they like their music and they reach so many MySpace friends, as this is a good indicator of how successfully a music artist or band could be marketed. Of course, that does vary on the artist or band and the circumstances, but the fact remains…MySpace is a powerful tool for attracting record label attention.

Promote Shows and Perform Live Often

Another great way of attracting record label attention is to get out there and play, play, play and play!  The important message here is PLAY!  If you have talent and believe in yourself…performing free shows and concerts and engagements to the like can make you a local celebrity, and moves you one step closer to success and grabbing record label attention. The more fans who love you and your songs, also represent the possible numbers in album sales to a label.  If you can prove that people love you, love your music and show that you have a large following (fan base), then a record label would be much less hesitant to bring you on board.

Get the Best Production Team You Can Afford

Some up and coming artists may be hesitant to look into a real production team because they don't want the hassle of having to work with them or for that matter…pay them.  However, if you want to be successful with live venues and be in a position of securing a record deal, you will have to have a good management and/or a production team right behind you for the ride and in support of.  The decision to try and make it without these folks can make you or break you.

Invest in Yourself

If you have a goal and the talent to match…go for your dreams and don’t let anything stand in your way—especially when it comes to the music industry. The odds are against everyone, not just you, when it comes to making it, but artist and bands do.  Hard work, a dedication and belief in yourself can get you there.  Sometimes it takes a little more, sometimes a little less, and at times the road tends to be paved with bumps (potholes) but you can do it!  Frequently take some time to evaluate your own worth and decide if you are ready to invest in yourself.  If you can not do so in good faith, maybe re-evaluate whether or not you are worth attracting record label attention.

Remember that record label attention can be so Hollywood-Ized sometimes.  People feel like it should be easy to do and that success comes to people who have talent, when it is not that simple anymore. Sometimes it takes more than that—a certain look, a certain style, a certain element that sets them apart and makes them memorable.  Be original but most of all…Be Yourself!