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Print this page Print Version Approaching record companies

It is unlikely you are going to be able to get a record deal without a manager. This is mainly because managers know the record companies and they like to deal with managers.
If you don't have a manager and are considering looking for a record deal, think long and hard if this is the right thing to do. You need to be sure that you have something a company is going to back and have a product that people will hand over hard-earned cash to buy. Yes it is about music but it is also a business and in order for everyone to eat and pay the rent you also need to sell the music.

• Record companies won't consider you if you only have a handful of songs. They need to know you can write songs and that you are fairly prolific - they are looking to the future and will be want to know you have material for more than one album.
• Have you already done some recording and did you sell those cds? Perhaps you have set up you own label and released your own CD - this will show commitment and that you know what is involved in selling your music.
• Are you able to perform confidently and could you do a good gig at short notice? Do you get large crowds at your gigs?

Sue Verran Sue Verran, songwriter
Don't turn up in your old jeans. "You want to represent yourself as someone who is serious about what you do."
Listen to Sue
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Boomy Tokan Boomy Tokan, music industry advisor
Need to cut boomy3 audio Need to cut boomy3 audio Need to cut boomy3 audio Need to cut boomy3 audio
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Audio help Also find out where the scouts go to gigs and get a slot there. Every town has venues that A&R local and out of town scouts see as worth checking out regularly.

If you are going to invite and A&R try and find out what they look like. There's nothing worse than coming off stage and then walking up to someone asking if they are from hot stuff label and they are just collecting glasses.
Have a demo ready of your songs and make sure you have your name address and contact number on the actual cd label.

When meeting anyone from a record company remember to be polite, well presented and enthusiastic. This person is also looking at you as someone they could possibly be working with for a number of years - it helps if you can get on with people. When you're famous you can do what you like.
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