Music Business Tips:

Tip #3" Gotta Get a Record Deal (Part 2)

I mentioned before you should only be interested in a record deal if your currently selling many CDs of your own music, have a large fan base, can perform live and have the time to promote the music. Otherwise you shouldn't get involved. There are tons of record companies out today particularly small ones. Anyone can have a record company. If you put out your own music CD you could be your own label. It's no different than starting any other kind of business.

If you do decide to contact a label you should consider some things. First, find out about the record company's background. What music do they sell and promote, where do they promote their products, what other music artists do they sell and how do you fit in are just a few questions to look into. Make sure your music is what they sell. You don't approach a hip-hop record company if you're a rock band. Second, if it seems like you might have something they are interested then you can contact them. However, they might not accept unsolicited material. Meaning they get too many emails and calls from folks who are clueless. If you don't know you can always ask by calling or emailing them. Also, see if the record company participates in any events that you could attend. Check out Billboard magazine for any upcoming events. You might be able to meet them in person.

Just remember you are not the only music artist out there. There are tons of musicians and a limited amount of people buying music. Especially today where it's all about downloading lousy compressed versions into an iPod. Record companies are scrambling to find ways of bringing income. This unfortunately means less for you in the deal.

Next time I'll talk about options on whether or not to get involved with a record deal.