Submitting your music to a label is a milestone that can make or break your music career. It can mean the difference between having your music distributed worldwide or your music being a secret meant for your ears only. If you are a beginner musician, the process can seem daunting, but fear not, this guide will walk you through the steps in detail. With determination and patience, you can make it happen.
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The Challenge of Submitting Your Music to A Label
Getting your music to the right people is a tedious process. Music labels receive thousands of submissions per day, and finding a way to make your music stand out can be quite challenging. Here’s where most artists fail, they don’t follow the right approach. If you want your submission to be considered, you must take the time to do things right.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before you reach out to any label, it’s important to have your music ready. This means that your music must be recorded, mixed, and mastered professionally. Label executives will not take your submission seriously if your music quality is subpar. You should also have a strong press kit ready, which includes a short bio, high-quality press photos, and links to your music. Make sure your press kit is current and up-to-date. Lastly, research labels and find the one that seems like the perfect fit for your music genre.
Method 1: Submitting Via Email
Email submission is the most common way for musicians to get their music in front of label executives. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Research labels, find the one that fits your music genre, and locate the email address for submissions.
2. Compose an email that’s concise and straight to the point. Include your short bio, links to your music, and attach your press kit.
3. Use an engaging subject line to make your email stand out from others.
4. Make sure your email does not have any typos or grammatical errors.
5. Send your email and patiently wait for a response.
Pros:
– Most labels have email addresses for submission readily available on their website
– It’s cost-effective because you don’t need to pay for postage
– Emails can be sent at any time of the day
Cons:
– Your email can easily get lost in thousands of other submissions
– There’s no way to follow up to see if your email has been received or opened
– You may not get a response at all
Method 2: Submitting via Online Submission Form
Many labels have online submission forms that allow musicians to upload their music directly to their website. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Research labels and locate their online submission form
2. Fill out the required fields, including your short bio, links to your music, and upload your press kit
3. Make sure to follow the guidelines and instructions set out by the label
4. Submit your application
5. Patience is key, wait for a response
Pros:
– Many labels prefer online submission forms because it streamlines the process
– You can be sure that your submission will end up in the right hands
– Many forms allow you to track the status of your submission
Cons:
– Online submission forms may have size and format restrictions
– You may not get a response
Method 3: Submitting via Physical Package
Submitting a physical package is an old-school method, but it can still be effective in getting your music noticed. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Research labels and locate their mailing address
2. Put together a physical package that includes your short bio, press kit, CD or vinyl, and include a self-addressed stamped envelope for their response
3. Mail off your package
4. Patience is key, wait for a response
Pros:
– A physical package catches the attention of the label executives
– It’s a great way to make a strong first impression
– You know your package will end up in the right hands
Cons:
– It’s expensive and time-consuming
– Packages may get lost in transit
– Labels may not have the resources to handle physical submissions
Why Can’t I get a Label Submission?
Many factors can contribute to why you’re having trouble getting a label submission. Here are some possible reasons:
1. You’re not ready:
If your music is not up to par or if you don’t have a strong press kit, you could be rejected before even getting a chance.
Fix:
Go back to the drawing board. Spend more time perfecting your craft and building a professional press kit.
2. Wrong Label:
You might be submitting to labels that do not fit your music genre.
Fix:
Research labels and find the one that is perfect for your genre.
3. Submitting Incorrectly:
If you’re not following the correct submission process, your submission may never get noticed.
Fix:
Research and follow the correct submission process.
Additional Tips
– Be professional in your submission, use proper grammar and spelling
– Research the label’s submission rules thoroughly
– Don’t be too aggressive with follow-ups
– Make sure to have realistic expectations
5 FAQs about Submitting Your Music to A Label
Q: How long should my submission take?
A: Give yourself 4-6 weeks to hear back from a label. If you don’t hear back, follow-up in a polite manner.
Q: Should I submit to as many labels as possible?
A: No, you should submit to labels that fit your music genre.
Q: Is there a time of year that’s best for submissions?
A: No, but it’s always best to check the label’s website for their submission guidelines.
Q: What should I do if my submission gets rejected?
A: Take this as an opportunity to push yourself to perfect your craft. You can always submit again.
Q: Is it necessary to have a music video?
A: No, but it can be helpful in making your submission stand out.
In Conclusion
Submitting your music to a label is a great way to get your music out there. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a process that requires patience and persistence. Make sure you have your music recorded professionally, build a strong press kit, and research labels thoroughly. Keep in mind that rejection is normal, and you should use it as motivation to get better. We hope this guide helps you get closer to getting signed with your dream label.