Music Industry

You know the stories about the music industry, but mainly just the success stories of major artists or those movies that always show the country bumpkin finding her way to the big city and getting the music contract of her dreams. Are these stories true? For those who want to break into the music industry, it can seem as though this is an impossible feat, unless you win American Idol. Though the music industry is tough, this does not mean it is impossible to navigate. You just need to know how it works and who’s involved. Maybe it’s not about talking to Quincy Jones, but about talking to an intern who can get your demo to the right person.

Who’s a Part of the Music Industry?

Most people think that the performers and their agents or producers are the only ones that make up the music industry. This is far from the case. There are many more people who help to make sure the music industry is moving smoothly and consistently producing new artists and records.

• Music publishers
• Music producers
• Music and recording studios
• Sound engineers
• Record labels
• Retail stores
• Online music stores
• Performance rights organizations
• Booking agents
• Event promoters,
• Music venues
• Road crew
• Talent managers
• Business managers
• Radio stations
• Musical equipment retailers

With all of these people working to help an artist become popular, it now seems reasonable to pay $10 for a digital CD. A lot of people have to get paid in order to keep the music industry machine running.

Breaking into the Music Industry

Yes, it doesn’t hurt to try to make yourself a celebrity before you become a signed artist. Getting in the public eye with your musical talents will increase your chances of being seen by others as a musical artist they want to work with. You will also want to make sure you are studying your craft and working with a coach to help your voice or your musical instrument playing. The more you practice and the better you get, the more of a chance you have to be seen. Start scheduling gigs around town as much as possible too. This will help you feel more comfortable with performing and your name will be out in the public eye even more.

Does Talent Even Matter?

Contrary to what American Idol has taught us (here’s looking at you William Hung), talent does matter when you want to be a success. No one wants to watch a person who is horrible at signing or musical instrument playing. Well, they might watch for a bit, but only in morbid curiosity. And that will wear off quickly. You need to be the best at what you do, or at least the best that you can be. The more you practice and the more you develop your skills, the more likely you are to get the attention you deserve. And hopefully the contract you want.