Producing music independently is easier than ever with today’s technological advancements, but some musicians go for broke and seek the coveted record deal. Your first step in reaching this goal starts at your recording studio in San Antonio so you can present your music well to interested parties. While there are no guarantees, giving consideration to the following will help you in this quest:
- Choose your studio: Unless you are very proficient with audio technology, using a home studio to hit the big time is not recommended. Find a studio with signed clients, as it will most likely have the skill and knowledge to create the high-quality product you require. Studios and producers also have connections to each other, so finding one often means discovering the other.
- The music demo: Once known as the “demo tape,” due to its former cassette tape medium, this is your first impression to the record company. It will be the first thing requested when you contact the companies, and if you send a sample that is of poor quality, you will never get a chance. Since so much is on the line with the music demo, consider having it professionally recorded and mastered. The days of low expectations with any sound recording are long gone, and this is worth the extra effort.
- The master recording: While the demo is your introduction, the master recording is for commercial release. Even if you do not land a deal right away, this higher-quality recording can be submitted for Internet distribution and gain you clout that way. Also, some record companies have such high expectations that if you are feeling very ambitious, make the master your demo. Consider having a master recording done in addition to your demo.
- Find a music producer: This is a varied role, but for most music genres, the producer makes the technical decisions in the recording studio, helps choose songs for an album and promotes the artist. Producers in the rock industry tend to have more varied roles, and delegation and partnership between producers is common. In popular music, R&B and dance, the producer is essential to help artists stand out. These genres are very dependent on sound quality. You will need to find someone with not only the connections and technical knowledge, but also experience with the music you play.
Keep in mind, though, that the Internet has changed everything. Just because you do not catch the attention of record companies does not mean your music career is dead. There are avenues to release your music independently. However, you will still need to retain the services of a recording studio and music producer to assure that these independent attempts are high-quality recordings that the public will enjoy. Who knows—if you gain enough of a web following, you may find yourself with a contract later.
Windmill Valley Recording is a recording studio in San Antonio that handles many music genres including country, jazz, alternative and rock. If you are ready to take the plunge and see where your music career can take you, contact us today.