How to Submit Your Music to Record Labels: A Step-by-Step Guide
Sending your music to record labels can be a game-changing step in your music career. I'll guide you through the most effective process to get your music in front of the right people.
Before submitting your music, ensure you have: - High-quality recordings of your best tracks - Professional artwork - A compelling artist biography - Links to your social media profiles - An electronic press kit (EPK)
Research the right labels first. Look for those that: - Release music in your genre - Work with artists at your career level - Have a track record of successful releases - Accept demos from new artists
Here's my step-by-step process to submit your music properly:
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Find the label's submission guidelines Look for a "Demo Submission" or "Contact" page on the label's website. Many labels have specific requirements for how they want to receive music.
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Follow submission instructions exactly
- Use their preferred platform (email, submission form, or demo submission service)
- Include only the requested materials
- Format your files as specified
- Keep file sizes within limits
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Craft a professional email
- Use a clear subject line (Example: "Demo Submission - [Artist Name] - [Genre]")
- Keep your message brief and professional
- Mention 2-3 similar artists on their roster
- Include streaming links to your music
- Add your contact information
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Present your music effectively
- Send 2-3 of your strongest tracks
- Use private SoundCloud links or WeTransfer
- Ensure all links work and don't expire
- Include download options if required
Important things to avoid: - Mass emailing multiple labels at once - Sending unsolicited attachments - Writing long, unfocused emails - Following up more than once - Being pushy or demanding
When to expect a response: Most labels receive hundreds of demos weekly. Wait at least 2-4 weeks before following up. One polite follow-up email is sufficient. If you don't hear back, move on to other opportunities.
Track your submissions: Create a spreadsheet to monitor: - Label name - Submission date - Contact person - Response received - Follow-up date
Remember that rejection is common in the music industry. Keep improving your music and continue submitting to new labels. Success often comes from persistence and maintaining professional relationships in the industry.
Alternative submission methods: - Music submission platforms (SubmitHub, LabelRadar) - Industry networking events - Music conferences - Artist development programs - Label showcases
Final tips for success: - Research each label thoroughly before submitting - Customize each submission for the specific label - Keep your music and promotional materials updated - Build your fanbase independently - Consider hiring a professional manager or promoter - Stay active in your local music scene
By following these guidelines, you'll maximize your chances of getting noticed by record labels. Remember that quality music and professional presentation are key to standing out in a crowded industry.