How to get a record deal? Tips on how to be ready and what to expect

In the past, every artist's ambition was to get a record deal. Since a record company was the only way to sell songs, gain exposure, go on tours, and perform at festivals and large venues, musicians would try anything to catch their attention.

Nowadays, though, many independent musicians have been able to independently distribute their music, schedule performances, and sell goods thanks to the resources provided by social media and DIY marketing techniques.

That does not, however, imply that record deals are no longer in use or significant. The opportunity to reach a larger audience greatly increases if you have the backing of an established music organization; therefore, for many musicians, securing a record contract is still the ultimate objective.

In this article, we'll go through how to get a record deal, what record labels are searching for nowadays, and how to approach a record company step-by-step.

What is a record deal?

A record label and an artist enter into a contract known as a “record deal”. Depending on their popularity, prior publications, and other factors, various musicians receive various record deals.

If your band has a reasonable level of success, the record companies will pay you an advance and handle all of the marketing and publishing for you. The artist consents to create and release a specific amount of music (including singles and albums) only through the record label, and the master of the music often belongs to the record company who also controls all copyrights.

If a record label or publishing company offers you a contract, we strongly suggest you to read it through before you sign. Seek the advice of an experienced lawyer if you're unsure.

What a record deal should include

For the purpose of helping the artist promote their music to a wider audience, the record label will handle all press inquiries, bookings, and promotions.

Additionally, they provide you access to resources you wouldn't have as an independent band, like booking agencies, advertising, professional recording facilities, performing at music festivals, and other opportunities.

Working with a large label and an independent label have very different advantages, but both provide chances for advancement and growth since they want you to succeed so they can gain from it as well.

How to get a record label to notice you

The following is a list of requirements to be noticed by a record label and helpful tips on how to get a record deal:

- Make amazing tunes with a distinctive sound. Do something unique or superior to what everyone else is doing.
- Possess buzz around your music and your brand with people speaking and posting your works online.
- Have a social media presence. Having an account is not sufficient; you must be active and interact with your audience and other musicians.
- Have a faithful following that will come to your performances and buy your music and merchandise.
- Be prepared to move to the next level and demonstrate your devotion to your project.

The majority of record labels find all of these things appealing since they make their work simpler. Make sure they are aware of your professionalism, dedication, and aspirations.

Get yourself ready for a record deal

Independent musicians seeking record deals must put in the necessary work now rather than waiting until they are signed to begin making plans. Examining what it takes to be prepared to sign a record contract will help clarify a bit more how to get a record deal.

Release music constantly

You must produce music, and it must be heard by others. With a PC or laptop and a free DAW, you may find a lot of materials to complete it on your own.

You could consider hiring a sound engineer at some point if you want your music to sound professional. Define your sound and put out as many songs as you can, perhaps 1 or 2 a month. The next stage is to start disseminating them everywhere.

Be active on social media

You might have a tremendous advantage over other artists by being active online. To expand your exposure, create profiles on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, and even a website.

Choose the platforms where you feel most at ease and where your audience is most active, rather than feeling obligated to use them all. You may test each platform to find out which works best. Start growing your fan base as soon as you identify the best ones for you.

Here are some suggestions for creating a profile on social media that is appealing:

- Pick a name that is appropriate for your project and your music.
- Have a decent profile photo.
- Write a professional biography.
- Use Linktree to send your followers to your other channels.
- Talk to other bands, respond to comments, and like them.

Nurture your fanbase

You have little chance of landing a record deal if you don't simultaneously focus on increasing your fan base and creating new songs. Once you're signed with a record label's assistance, we know this could sound simple to get, but keep in mind that labels are seeking someone who can accomplish it on their own.

For many, building a fan base is the most difficult step, but connect with people by being authentic and sharing your motivation for creating music. One of the most effective marketing strategies for musicians is still word of mouth.

Building strong relationships with your followers will take time, but if you are persistent, it will happen.

Live performances are important

The easiest method to get new fans offline is through live performances which record labels will also take into consideration.

Keep participating in your local scene to accomplish this. Speak with the proprietor of any establishment where you might be able to perform, such as a coffee shop, bar, or restaurant. It's beneficial to collaborate with other artists; consider offering to open a show for them. If your crowd increases from show to show, you're on the right track.

Networking

It might be quite beneficial for you to network with other people in the music industry. Make connections with musicians from all genres that can give you some tips on how to get a record deal. The majority of the time, they have connections to people who may be in close touch with record labels.

Online is a great way to network since you can follow other artists and see who else they are following. But remember to engage in offline networking as well.

Create your own EPK

People will be curious to learn more about you as you amass more followers and more viewers at your events. They may learn everything about your band by accessing an Electronic Press Kit (EPK) on your website. Your biography, images, contact details, and music streaming URLs must all be included in your EPK.

Use your social media platforms as an EPK if you don't have a website; just be careful to include all the information. When someone opens your profile, they want to know about you right away, without scrolling down to discover what they're searching for.

Make your researches and send your music

It's time to check into which labels are actively seeking new musicians to sign to their roster. Start by taking a look at other artists you enjoy. What contract do they have? Who else did they have contracts with before a major label, if any?

You don't have to focus on major record labels at first, an independent label will provide you more options. Make sure the record label deals with your type of music (a hard rock record label won't sign you if you are a jazz musician, right?!?)

Visit the labels' websites to learn more. Most record labels provide a contact page containing the email addresses for each member of their team. Find their A&R representatives and make a note of their names and emails.

Once your demo is ready and you are 100% positive with it, emailing the A&R is the best thing to do. Keep your email brief, use a catchy subject line, include your name, band name, contact information, and a link to your demo in your message (no files, no attachments, only links) and good luck with it!

How to get a record deal - Conclusion

It's not everything to get a record contract. You should definitely be concentrating on making amazing music and increasing your fan base.

Do what you love, work consistently and with enthusiasm, and identify your goals before anything else. Opportunities will come eventually.

We hope you enjoyed reading this post, and if you'd want more career-related guidance, on our blog section, there are many more beneficial articles, advice, and recommendations to be found.

You are undoubtedly here because you love music, so please take advantage of the chance to listen to it while interacting with other users via webcam in CalypsoRoom.

In CalypsoRoom we believe music is the most powerful tool to bring people together, and that’s why we created a safe digital music social network online where you can meet friends or new people starting from the same song, listening to the music simultaneously connected by webcam.

Are you a music artist or label and do you want to give your music a further dimension? Do you own or co-own the master and publishing rights to your music? Consider to post it on CalypsoRoom listening to it together with your super fans, at the same time, connected by webcams.

Thanks for reading,
CalypsoRoom Team

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Written by CalypsoRoom Editorial Team
The CalypsoRoom Editorial Team is a skilled and diverse group of writers, researchers, and industry specialists who have access to Calypso's data and information in order to give you broad knowledge about the music industry as well as helpful advice to help you manage your music and dancing career.

Updated January 2023

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