So you've got talent and a great new song out on at least Spotify or YouTube through a legitimate distribution network like Distrokid? Now what? Let me share with you some tips that I'm transferring from my work as a former novelist (pre-conversion to Christ) and book promoter.
Tip #1: Grow a thick skin and expect rejection. The truth is that there are zillions of talented artists out there, as you well know, but start looking at them as fellow travelers on what could be an awesome journey but you have to pay your dues as the saying goes.
Tip #2: Keep your wallet closed as much as possible. Sure, it's tempting to want throw some hard earned money at a slick sounding music promoter who cares very little if you're music is any good or not. They are very good at fishing for vanity buyers so keep your head up and your feet on the ground because there is a tremendous amount of leg work you have to be willing to do if you are on a limited budget.
Tip #3. Learn who to trust. Not everyone is a wolf in sheep's clothing and there are some very genuine folks out there who can help you share your music and create a fan base with reviews and shares and other cost effective methods. This calls for discretion.
Tip #4: Invest your royalties, no matter how small, back into your business. The reason? Taxes!
It sounds counterintuitive, but losing money when you're starting out can be a good thing as far as the IRS is concerned. You can write off almost everything related to your music: Internet, phone, software, home studio space, etc. And if you throw a DJ party and feature just one of your songs, you can write off expenses for that too! Believe me, getting a nice tax refund at the end of an unprofitable year helps ease the pain a lot but keep all your records and receipts in proper order! Check on the IRS site on how to create a business profile. This is something that a lot of people overlook who soon expect the dollars to start rolling in miraculously because it just ain't gonna happen!
Tip #5. Social media works! Does it have to be said? Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc., are cheap avenues but make sure you have a home, or landing page, to drive people to where you feature and control whatever you want about your business and interest. This page your on is a good example and for $15 dollars a year, it's worth it to buy your own customized domain name.
Tip #6. Keep improving your skills! Try to be engaged almost everyday in some way with your interests. If it's just a few minutes practicing music or learning ever changing DAW skills or connecting on social media, just make it a habit.
Tip #7. Play with other believers. Music is a celestial conversations between souls. Find other like-minded musicians in church or somewhere else where you can dialogue in real time. Not only will it improve your faith in your performance, but it will keep the devil and his doubts at bay. If you're having fun praising the Lord in song, you've won the day against the enemy.
And the best, most important tip of all?
No comments:
Post a Comment