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Showing posts from November, 2016

Common Terms in the Music Business

If you're trying to get started in the music business , it can sound like everyone is speaking a different language, with buzz terms and music-specific terms. The below guide can help you understand the industry: 360 Deals - An increasingly common major label deal structure in which the label not only earns income from the sale of recorded music of their artists  but also gets a cut of other artist income, including money generated by touring and merchandise sales. Agent - Someone who liaises with promoters and venues to book gigs for bands.  Big Four Record Labels - Major record labels. Demo - A sample recording of a band's music. Often rough recordings or early versions of "songs in progress." Digital Distribution - Distribution of music online, i.e., downloads. Digipack - A type of CD case that looks like a book instead of a plastic case. The outside is made of paper and the CD sits in a tray inside that is attached to the paper. Door Split - A type

Things to Know Before Starting A Record Label

Are you thinking of getting into the record label business? Starting your own record label, whether for fun or with hopes of turning into a real, live business, is hard, hard work. Before you make the leap, find out what you are getting into and what you should have in place, so you're set up to make a good go of it. Here's what you need to consider before you start planning that first release. Money, Money, Money (and More Money) I know, I know, you're doing this for love, not money, right? Unfortunately, everyone you're going to need to work with start your label is unlikely to be so giving. Pressing albums costs money, and there are additional costs that add up more quickly than you might imagine - postage is a huge one that can really send you for a spin. Promoting an album also costs a bundle. There are things you can do to keep your costs down, but don't head out in your brave new label world with a credit card and a dream. Research, figure out a r

How to Get a Gig: A Musician's Guide to Booking Concerts

           Playing live may be the most important thing a band can do, but  booking a gig can seem like an overwhelming process — especially when a band is doing all of the booking themselves. If your band is unsigned, playing live is a great way to build up a loyal fan base, get some media attention and attract record label interest. For signed bands, gigs are the best way build your audience while promoting your new releases. If you're in a cold sweat about how to book shows for your band, take a deep breath, relax and follow these steps and you will surely get your band on stage. How to Book Gigs for Your Band Let's start from the beginning. Before you even can think about booking a gig, there are a few things you will need to have in place. What You Need To begin, you are going to need promotional material to showcase your talent and music, including: A demo or a finished CD , or a website on which people can listen to your music A press pack , including information