Every musician has the dream of making it into the big time, have a hit CD, sell millions of them, be on radio and TV and Be a Star!
But the odds of hitting the Big Time are slim to none unless you have the skill to promote yourself. And very few people can handle this task along with writing songs, playing gigs and doing everything it takes just to support yourself.
Hiring a manager or agent can be expensive and usually doesn't work to your advantage. So what do you do?
First you have to determine what you are. Are you a cover band, do you only do original music, are you rock, punk, country? Do not try to cover all types or too many types of music. You must settle on your musical personality, stick with it and hope to build a following.
After you become VERY GOOD and have at least 9 or more songs you can cut a CD. Beg, borrow or work for the money to go into a local studio and lay down some tracks. You can find very good recording studios near where you live; even in someone's garage. Ask to hear their demo and you can tell if they are any good.
Lay down your tracks and get a few CD copies made. Start with less than 200. They will be more expensive than if you buy a higher quantity like 1000, but you will have less chance of being stuck with too many. I know of a lot of people with 700 or 800 CDs in their closet.
Besides, after you cut your first CD you will immediately start working on a second one to put additional music, make improvements and correct the mistakes you know you made on the first CD.
Now start marketing your product. Rather than give away your CDs to friends try charging a few bucks to help cover the production costs. Most people don't mind paying $3 or $5 bucks to get a friends CD.
There are websites that will let you upload your music and sell it for you. Some have a small charge, $35, and some are free.
If music is in your soul, stick with it and keep trying.
Good Luck,
Mike R. Murehead
