Getting the record label to say, “Yes”.

The ultimate goal for an artist is to get a deal and have their sound be heard by the masses.  So many young artists strive to reach this goal, but have done little to be prepared for the opportunity.  For aspiring artists, there are not many textbooks that boast that they have the guaranteed steps to success and there is little to no information available for preparing the artist for if and when the label says, “Yes”.  So…let’s be realistic. There is no for sure method to guarantee success and while music combines are being held to help educate the ambitious artists, many artists are still not equipped to take their act to the next level. 

As much as I feel that I am educated on this subject, I still cannot say even I can provide an artist with the top strategies to guarantee success, but I can share what I believe is the top methods an artist should use to become more efficient and effective. 

The first thing any artist should realize is that this is the road less traveled. Don’t get hung-up on where you are career wise and start looking down on yourself.  This will result in becoming depressed, upset, and nonproductive.   Second, own your craft.  What all artists have is a unique skill.  Take ownership in that.  Just be aware that your skill is what gets people to hear you, but your image is what gets people to listen. 

This third strategy could easily be the most important.  “Know your business”.  You can bet if you don’t know your business, the label will, and make you pay them for it.  Register your name, register with SoundScan, and surround yourself with people you deem as assets.  Consider yourself a small business, because in all reality you truly are.

Having a goal is great, but a goal without a plan is just a dream.  Take the proper steps to make your goal a reality, and then seize the moment.