It’s hard to know how to sell music and make a splash when there are so many bands out there competing for attention.  For bands that want to get big, fast, signing with a major label is great way to do it.

Hey, easier said than done, right?

Getting noticed by even a semi-major label is a challenge, but it happens every day.

How To Sell Music:  Attracting Labels’ Attention

1.  Develop a fan following with lots of live shows.

This is the slow-but-steady path, and it still works.  By and large, a group that’s becoming famous regionally and consistently moves a lot of tickets at mid-tier venues will start attracting label attention.  Work on your live performances, and look to build your fanbase however you can.

2.  Meet a high-powered lawyer and/or manager.

One strategy that won’t work is blindly sending a demo into record labels.  It’s just going in the trash unless you have contacts.  If you’ve got any networking connections into law or the industry, leverage them.  A lawyer or producer on your side will start opening doors.

3.  Have a brilliant album ready to roll.

Labels love signing a band that’s got a CD in hand.  It’s cheaper for them.  But only if that CD is already recorded, mixed, and mastered up to major label standards.  Think about investing in a Mac… and maybe a geek to go with it.

4.  Do session work.

Getting into session work is another issue, but if you’re in a town with local labels, this can be a way to bring yourself to their attention.  It’s not glamorous, but you’ll meet people… and you might even jam with some greats.

5.  Have a major iTunes hit.

With roughly 2/3 of all digital music transactions happening on iTunes, it’s the most visible venue for a band that’s unsigned.  If you haven’t gotten onto iTunes yet, SongCast makes it easy, and we also give you plenty of tools for tracking your albums’ performance.

For one low price, you get a lot of music marketing power.   Check it out!