Music promotion tips

So, you’ve written a great song. But what will you do with it now?

Upfront preparation

There is no perfect formula for promoting your music, but in general the following procedures apply:

• Record a demo of the song. A simple guitar and vocal can work; however, it may be best to record a more highly produced demo. The cost of recording a demo can vary widely depending on studio and talent costs. If money is an issue, there are reputable music producers/programmers who can produce high-quality demos for a reasonable fee.
• Consider copyrighting the song. By law, a song is copyrighted as soon as it’s completed. But in some cases it’s good to register the song with the Copyright Office. Visit www.copyright.gov/help/faq/ for helpful information regarding copyrights. Whether you register a copyright or not, you should always print © (the year written, your name) on the CD, along with your name and contact info.
• Print lyric sheets of the song to send out with the CDs. Again, put your copyright notice, name and contact info on the lyric sheet.

Promotion alternatives

Now you’re ready to promote your music. Everyone wants his song to be recorded by a major artist and you should definitely pursue that. But pitching to famous artists is often like winning the lottery because of the intense competition. Consider also pitching the song to less “big-time” musicians like regional bands or singers. It’s important for the song to be heard, and this approach is a good stepping-stone for getting the song to a higher level.

Here are the ways to promote your music:

• Promote the song yourself. Serious song pitching is time-consuming and can be a job in itself. Personal contacts and face-to-face meetings are highly recommended.  Online publications can help; for example, RowFax is a Nashville-based pitch sheet that provides up to date information about which artists are working on recording projects and currently searching for new material. Before you begin your song promoting, do some research.
• Submit the song to established publishing companies. A reliable publishing company has the contacts to get your song heard. But bear in mind the following: a publishing deal isn’t easy to get; the company gets half of your royalties for many years; and often they will promote your song for a while and then lose interest. Be very careful with whom you sign.
• Start your own publishing company. This can be done through a performing rights organization such as BMI or ASCAP, and it’s relatively easy to do.  Like any startup company you will need to establish contacts and a build a good reputation within the industry.
• Use a “song plugger” company to pitch the song. While some of these companies do occasionally score a success, many of them will work for anyone who pays them, even if the person has little talent. Check credentials and use extreme caution before you give them money.

The bottom line

Music promotion is highly competitive and success very often depends upon the luck of “being in the right place at the right time.”  However, it can be both financially and personally rewarding. Patience and persistence are necessary.