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How to Make a Demo CD

Demo stands for demonstration, which is exactly what it is-a demonstration of your band's songs. It's not master quality, but it just shows what you as musicians are able to accomplish. You can also sell it at your shows, and it just might be a popular underground album in your neighbourhood! So this is how you make one!

STEPS

1 
Write songs. Your demo needs at least two songs. You can add more if you like, but don't over do it. No one's gonna listen to a demo with 20 songs. They can be original or cover songs but at least a couple of them should be original.
2 Choose your best songs. Best isn't your most popular songs, it's your best. Best means the best performed, best sung, best written, with the strongest chorus and the best structure and format. They should all be in the same style. To choose your best songs, don't ask your fans. They most likely don't know much about composition and arrangement. Besides, they're gonna say they're all great, because they're your fans, remember?! Instead, you should ask someone more in the industry, such as your manager, a publisher, a band that has a record deal, a lawyer and if you can't find any of these try asking a local club owner, a DJ, or a small record store manager.
Decide where your band is going to record. The general dilemma is cost. If you want to record for $500 to no money, you can record at your home studio. If you're ready to spend more, you should go to a recording studio, because it will be better quality. If you're going to record at your home studio, read step four. If you're going to record at a professional studio, read step five
You can record at your home studio.
  • Obtain some recording software. Audacity is a great program which you can get for free at[1]. If you can afford it, buy Pro Tools. It may cost a lot but it's cheaper then a recording studio, and it has better quality than Audacity.
  • Make sure you have the hardware Mics, amps, a mixer (if you can) and lots of cables!
  • Keep it as simple as possible. For best playback quality run from the sound card into a mixer or amplifier and then to your monitor speakers. For best recording quality, run instruments/mics into a mixer(make sure you are getting a clean, clear, undistorted signal) then run from the mixer into the sound card.
  • Learn to record into an .mp3 or .wav file.
  • Record the drums first. The rest come easier with more precision.
Or you can record at a professional recording studio.
  • Look for small studios Some of them would do anything for your business, with some of the studios charging as little as $100 dollars a song. Since your demo will have about three songs, that equals to just $300 for the whole CD!
  • Keep the tracks down to 2-3, nobody will listen to your demo CD if you will keep your epic 20-track mega collection that have 10 minute solos in them. 

How to Record Your First Demo CD

Recording a first demo CD is a big step in the direction of being a professional musician. It is not every day that an artist steps up and decides to present themselves professionally to the world, which in effect is what a demo CD really is. For an artist, a demo CD is very much like a resume, a portfolio of the highest quality, and a calling card. Getting it right is important, and presenting it well is equally as important. 

Recording your first demo CD will take time and money, something that most musicians have precious little, and the steps taken in preparation will enable you to make the most of your time in the studio. When choosing your studio setting, you have two options. You can pay the higher costs (which typically results in higher quality) for the use of a pre-existing high name studio or you can find local garage talent. In many cases, local garage talent will be more patient, will be more willing to offer suggestions and help you through the process, and will charge you less. The quality of the demo will be acceptable, sometimes even very high, if you find the right garage talent. This requires asking around ... a lot ... and listening to some previously recorded demo CDs. 


Technology has advanced far enough ahead and has become cost effective enough that many professionals can now build their own recording studios right in their own garage, sound proofed spare room, or somewhere on their property. So can amateurs. This is actually good for the industry and many musicians are even beginning to learn how to build their own recording studios to create their own demo CDs. However, having your own recording equipment and having all the qualities of a good recording studio are two very different animals. You can find affordable, high quality amateur/professional recording without breaking the bank that will be of admirable quality if you look hard enough. 

Once you are sure of the direction you want to head and have either found your garage talent or have booked yourself with a professional high end sound studio, the key to your success lies in your talent as well as your preparation. No matter how cool you are, you're going to be stoked and getting your foot in the door is going to feel very powerful to you. You must prepare so that your emotions don't take you out of your element and ruin your time allotted.

Preparation means organization, it means knowing exactly what you're going to do from the moment you step into the sound booth until the moment you step out. Ironically, it also means being a little bit flexible in case there's an issue out of your control that might delay or offset your intentions. Preparation means, aside from the obvious of knowing the music so well you could record it backwards while eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, having your equipment tuned, ready, in top working order and being emotionally ready to do what you do best.

If you are using live musicians, each of them needs to meet the same standard of organization that you are aiming to achieve. There is nothing more frustrating than having to wait on, cater to, and continuously replay for the benefit of one musician out of the bunch who can't seem to get his or her goodies in gear. Have a little meeting the night before and go over a written checklist as well as a little "pep" talk to help the musicians around you live up to their potential. Hours will be spent on each individual recording, so you are going to want you and your crew well rested, and relaxed so everyone can do the one thing that will make a higher quality demo CD. Have some fun.

Every musician knows, and this applies to recording your first demo CD, that the instant a musician is wound up, nervous, and focused on everything but the music, something will sound off no matter how well they are able to cover their emotions. There is a fantastic quality that comes through when a musician is relaxed and enjoying him or herself in the process. This is vital to creating the best demo CD possible. 

From start to finish, recording your first demo CD should be an experience that you learn from, enjoy, and of course, create the perfect CD for you and your goals. This can be done with preparation, practice, a little guidance from those who "know a great who can help you out," and enough faith in yourself to have fun while performing.

How to Record a Band Demo CD or Band Demo How to Record a Band Demo CD or Band Demo Tape

Band Demo Recording Tips - In order to submit Band Demos to Venues, Club Owners, and Record Companies you will need a great quality demo CD, MP3, or tape.  The most common format type of Demo to submit is in CD format.  Simply because it is most common and most people have a CD player or computer to play the demo.  Although with the digital age we are in, MP3 formats are becoming more common.  Some bands now submit there music to record companies etc. with flash drives or submit them online.  Listed below are a variety of ways to record a band demo to pitch songs to venues, club owners, record companies, and booking agents.    
  • Home Recording - You may want to rent or invest in a portable home recording unit.  Most music equipment stores rent and sell these units.   Some are more complicated than others.  Make sure that you use one with a good amount of memory so that you don't have to stop recording and dump your material on CD or tape to early.  Once the demo recording process is complete, it is usually fairly easy to burn your songs to CD on your home recording systems.  You will want to read the instructions on mastering your music before you burn your demo CD.  Maybe you would like to add effects to your songs, equalize, double your vocals.  All are good techniques to use before burning the CD.  Most home recording units come equipped with CD burners.  Try reading some home recording magazines and visit our home recording tips page to get information on perfecting your sound for your demo CD.  Computer Recording has now become popular to record music for band demos.  There are many software programs available from Pro Tools to Cubase to record on computers.  Your band will need a decent computer with enough Gigs or memory to hold the amount  of music you want to record.  You will also need professional audio interface equipment to record to your computer.  Some recording software may come with this interface equipment.  Basically, the audio interface allows you to plug in your mics, guitar, bass, etc into the interface that takes the sound to the computer recording software.  Check with your local music stores and do research on the internet to decide which software would be best for your band.  A good number of professional musicians have used pro tools in the past, but this software can be expensive. 

  • Studio Time - Your band may want to book studio time.   Check with other local bands whose CD quality you really like.  Make sure the company is reputable.  You may want to check the Better Business Bureau www.bbb.org to make sure the company does not have any complaints issued. Also, have your material practiced and ready before you enter the studio.  This will save you time and money in the long run.  Most studios will give you a few master CD's from the sessions.  You can then burn more CD's on your computer or CD Recorder, or have them done through a professional CD duplication firm.  

  • CD Cover and Jacket - Also, you will need a good Quality CD Cover and Jacket for your demo or CD.  If you just need a small amount of CD covers to send to local venues, why not try a computer program that prints CD Labels, Covers, Jackets, and more on your color printer.  You can find these programs at most music stores or department stores.  Just be aware that if your using color, your color ink will deplete quickly with a lot of graphics of pictures.  Therefore you may just want to do a few, and maybe go to your local copy center and see what they would charge to print out a larger quantity for you.  You may also want to try a professional CD Cover company.  Do some research on the web and price out the best few companies.  

  • Demo Contact Info - It's a good idea to have your contact information on your demo, especially if your sending to clubs or venues.  That way the will have your info in the event your press kit is lost in the shuffle.  

  • 3 or 4 Song Demo Limit for submission to Record Companies - In general it's a good idea to keep submission demos to Record Companies, Publishers, Producers to a 3 song limit.  Include only your best material and make sure the songs are copyrighted.  Visit www.copyright.gov for copyright information.  

  • Quality - Make sure that your demo is of professional quality even if it has been done through home recording.  Rest assured, the competition is putting great amounts of work into their demo, and you don't want a rejection due to poor quality.  If your having trouble mastering your demo through home recording, try getting your material mastered by a studio or someone you possibly have networked with in the past that records music.  Many computer programs can help with mastering your music.  You know what sounds good and doesn't.  Keep at it until it sounds as good as it can get.

How To Choose Songs for Demos

Good music is the crucial ingredient in a good music demo, naturally, but there's more to putting a demo together than just loading it up with your favorite songs. You've got a limited (read: VERY limited) amount of time to make an impact with your demo, so picking the right songs is key. Follow these steps to choose songs for demos that will make your listener want to hear more. Although these steps are designed to specifically address picking out your demo songs, check the end of the article for more info about demos in general.Time Required: OngoingHere's How:
  1. Make a List:
    Right off the bat, you probably have a some ideas about which songs have demo potential and which songs you don't want to lead with. Make a list of the songs you'd like to consider for your demo, and stick to it. This list may be pretty short if you don't have many songs in your arsenal yet, but remember your demo is only going to contain a few songs - narrowing your catalog down to a list of "maybe" tracks will keep you focused and help stop you from going in circles and second guessing yourself. The songs on the list are in play for a place on your demo and the others are out. It will make life easier.
    1. Get Critical:

      I know, I know, they're all masterpieces. But your demo needs to be short, so you're going to have to make some cuts. Try to think like a listener - keeping in mind that the person listening to your demo listens to LOTS of demo and that you probably only have 20 seconds or so to stop them moving to the next track (or the next demo). First, make a pass through your list to see if there is anything else you can discount right away. If not, read on to find out what to look for in the perfect demo track.

    2. Choose the Tracks:

      Here's what to look for:

      • Strong beginnings: does the music not really kick in until 1:20? Skip it.

      • Catchy beat/refrain/etc: you may not be as in love with your catchier, lighter fare are as you with your deeper, more complex work, but the song that your listener won't be able to get out of their head will work best for you here. (Yes, they may initially curse you for having your song on repeat in their skull, but eventually, they will just HAVE to hear it again.)

      • Signature songs: No, don't write a theme song. But if you have a song that is a bit different that everyone associates with you, go for it.



    3. Lose The Tracks:

      Some songs are best left off the demos, including:

      • The growers: Sure, song X might be everyone's favorite of yours, but if it took everyone 128 listens before they fell in love with it, it doesn't belong on your demo.

      • Your attempt at (insert genre here): Showing a breadth of musical ability and innovation is a good thing, but your one-off, half hearted, comedy fueled attempt at rap/metal/country/dancehall/etc isn't demo material. Yes, even if all your friends all assure you it's hilarious. If you don't plan to go there again, don't go there on your demo.

      • The epics: 15 minute song? Save it for the album.



    4. Solicit Opinions:

      Get a few trusted friends - the friends who are willing to offer you constructive criticism - and let them listen to your demo. Get their honest feedback and make changes as needed. This works best if you can rustle up a few friends who haven't heard the songs. That way, you can tell them to listen to the tracks until they've heard enough, and then move on to the next one. This will allow you to to get an idea of how first time listeners at labels may respond. Even if your friends all know all of your songs, it's still important to run the whole thing by some fresh ears.

    5. Leave It Alone:

      Once you've chosen the tracks and taken the feedback into account, draw a line under your finished demo. You can second guess yourself, and then triple and quadruple guess when it comes to making a demo, but in reality, it's kind of like a test. Your first guess (or try) is usually the right one.

How To Send a Demo to a Record Label

OK, so you've recorded your demo - now what? Now you need to get your demo in the hands of the people who can help you take it to the next level. But with so many people trying to get their demos heard, how can you make sure your demo won't get lost in the shuffle? Follow these simple steps to move your demo to the top of the pile.

Difficulty: AverageTime Required: OngoingHere's How:
  1. Do Your ResearchBefore you start sending out your demo, you need to compile a list of labels who might be interested in hearing it. Sending your hip hop demo to an indie rock label is a waste of time and money. What bands do you like? What labels are they on? What labels deal with the kind of music you play? Spend some time online researching artists you consider to be similar to yourself and the labels that work with them. that way, your demo will land in the hands of people who "get" what you're doing.

  2. Learn Demo PoliciesOne you have your short list of labels, you need to learn each label's policy on demos. Some labels, especially larger labels, will not accept unsolicited demos for legal reasons - they worry about people sending them demos, and then later suing them, claiming their songs have been stolen. Most labels have demo policies clearly displayed on their sites. Find out:

    • Are unsolicited demos accepted?
    • Acceptable demo formats (CD, mp3 clips)
    • Demo mailing address
    • Is there a specific demo (A&R) rep to whom you should address your package?
    • Follow up rules - OK to call? OK to email?


  3. Keep it Short and SweetRemember, even small labels are inundated with demos, and many labels do listen to everything they get. Making their job easier will only help your case. Your demo package should include:

    • A short demo. Go for two to three of your best songs. Anything longer won't get listened to.
    • Your demo should be clearly labeled with your name and email address (NOT your number - you're more likely to get a response via email).
    • SHORT band bio. Keep it on subject and to the point. No need to go for "My parents have known since birth I would be a musician..."
    • Press clippings, if available


  4. Follow UpOnce you have sent your demo out to labels, you need to follow up with the labels to make sure they have received them, and to solicit their opinions. If the label has a demo follow up policy on their website, make sure you stick to that. Otherwise, an email a month after you have sent the demo is a good place to start. It may take months for a label to actually get around to playing your demo, but a friendly, occasional email will help your demo stand out from the pack. Unless you have been told differently by the label, DON'T call. It puts people on the spot and won't win you any friends. Stick to email.

  5. Steel YourselfSending out demos can be a little frustrating. Often, despite your best attempts at a follow up, you just won't even hear back from some people. You are also likely to hear "no" a lot. Don't despair. If you hear "no" from someone, ask for feedback, advice, and suggestions of other labels who may like your music. Again, you won't get this advice from everyone, but asking never hurts, and you may end up with the piece of advice that turns everything around for you. Treat every "no" as a chance to learn something that could turn that "no" into a "yes" in the future.

  6. Keep in TouchWhen you do hear "no" from a label, that doesn't mean you have to scratch them off your list. Include labels you like on your emailing list, with their permission, to let them know what is happening with your band, and if you record a new round of songs, it is perfectly fine to send a new demo to a label that has rejected you in the past. If you're playing a show in the town in which a particular label is based, invite them to the show. Getting people to know your name is half the battle.

Tips:
  1. Don't fret too much about the recording quality of the demo - That doesn't mean just slop anything down, but record labels do not expect to hear professional recording quality on demos. Great songs WILL shine through and WILL get noticed.

  2. But have a professional presentation - Take the time to print up a band bio that is clearly written and free of spelling errors. Jotting a few things about your band on the back of a napkin and tossing it into a package won't cut it. If you have press clippings, make a copy of each one a separate piece of paper and bind the pages together.

  3. Make a database of contacts - Keep a list of every label to whom you send your demo and of every person you talk to about your demo, whether the conversation is positive or negative. You never know who will be able to help you sometime down the line.

  4. Pick songs with strong beginnings - When you demo goes into the CD player, if the song doesn't grab the listener out of the gate, then the listener is likely to press "next." Don't go for the slow burners on your demo. Pick the songs that grab people on the first listen, from the first note.

  5. Get more demo help - This free eCourse will walk you through everything you need to know about demos. Sign up here. Also, visit this Demos 101 guide to everything you need to know about issues that may come up during your demo process.

How To Self Promote Your Music

Unless you have major label money behind you, the ability to self promote your music is one of the most important skills you can have. When you don't have money to hire PR people to run media campaigns for you, it is up to you to make sure people know about the music you are making. Getting started can be a little overwhelming, however. These steps will help you start out on the right foot, to make sure all of the right people are standing up and taking notice of you.

Difficulty: N/ATime Required: OngoingHere's How:
  1. Identify Your Goals - When you set out to promote your music, don't try to cover too much ground at once. Look at the way larger artists are promoted - they have specific campaigns that promote specific things, like a new album or a tour. Choose one thing to promote, like:

    • A single
    • A show
    • A website


    Once you know what to promote, you will be able to make clear goals for yourself, i.e. if you want to promote your website, then your goal is to bring traffic to the site. With these goals in mind, you'll find it easier to come up with promotion ideas, and you'll be better able to judge the success of your promotions.

  2. Target the Right Audience - With your promotional goal in mind, figure out who the right audience for your campaign is. If you have a gig coming up, then the right audience for your promotion are the local print publications and radio stations in the town in which your show is happening. If you have a limited edition single coming out, your primary audience is your band mailing list, plus the media. Going for the right audience is especially important if you're on a budget. Don't waste time and money letting town X knowing about an upcoming show in town Y or a folk magazine about your new hip hop album.

  3. Have a Promo Package - Just like when you send a demo to a label , to self promote your music, you need a good promo package. Your package should have:

    • A press release detailing your news
    • A short (one page) band bio
    • A CD (a demo recording is ok, or an advance copy of an upcoming release)
    • A package of any press coverage you have had so far - press coverage begets press coverage
    • Your contact information (make sure to include an email address - people may hesitate to call you)
    • A color photo, or a link to a site where a photo can be downloaded. The press is more likely to run a photo if they don't have to chase it.


  4. Find Your Niche - The sad truth is, every writer, radio station, website, or fan for that matter, you are trying to reach is likely being bombarded with info from other music hopefuls. You a reason to stand out. Try to find something that will make people more curious about you - give them a reason to want to know more. Being elusive worked wonders for Belle & Sebastian at the start of their career and people write about Marilyn Manson for being, well, Marilyn Manson. You don't have to devise a huge, calculated persona, but giving people a reason to check out your show or your CD before the others can only help.

  5. Bribe 'Em - Another way to stand out from the crowd is plain old free stuff. Even press people and label bosses love getting something for nothing, and you'll whip your fans into a frenzy (and get new fans) by giving stuff away. Some ideas:

    • Put some money behind the bar at a show and give free drink passes to all the industry people who come to check you out.
    • Give people on your mailing list an exclusive download once a month (be it a new song or an alternate version of a song)
    • At gigs, raffle (for free) mix CDs made by the band - everyone who signs up to your mailing list at the show gets entered in the drawing.


  6. Branding - Get your name out there. Make up some stickers, badges, posters, lighters or anything else you can think of that include your band's name. Then, leave the stuff anywhere you can. Pass them out at your favorite clubs, leave them on the record shop counter, poster the light posts - go for it. Soon, your name will be familiar to people even if they don't know why, and when they see your name in the paper advertising an upcoming show, they'll think "hey...I know that name, I wonder what that's all about.."

  7. Keep Track of Your Contacts - As you go through all of these steps, chances are that you are going to pick up a lot of new contacts along the way. Some of these contacts will be industry people and some will be fans. Never lose track of a contact. Keep a database on your computer for the industry people you have met and another database of fan contacts. These databases should be your first port of call for your next promotional campaign - and these databases should always be growing. Don't write anyone off, even if you don't get much feedback from them. You never know who is going to give you the break you need.

Tips:
  1. Know When to Act Small - This step ties in with targeting the right audience and identifying your goals - you can save a lot of time spinning your wheels by keeping the small stuff small. While it's always useful to keep other people up to date with what's happening in your career, that guy from Rolling Stone doesn't really need to know every time your band is playing a half hour set at the local club, especially if the local press really hasn't given you much coverage yet. When you're getting started, the easiest place to start a buzz is your local area. Build up the small stuff to get to the bigger stuff.

  2. But Know When to Act Large - Sometimes, a larger campaign really is in order. Go full speed ahead when you have something big brewing, like:

    • A new album
    • A tour
    • An important piece of news, like an award or a new record deal
    This kind of news warrants contacting both the media and people you want to work with, like labels, agents, managers and so on.

  3. Find the RIGHT Niche - As mentioned, finding your niche is helpful in getting noticed. There is one caveat however - make sure you get noticed for the right reasons. You certainly will get some attention for bad, unprofessional behavior, but the problem is that your music won't be what everyone is talking about - and isn't that what you really want to be recognized for? Don't do yourself the disservice of self promoting a bad rep for yourself. Make sure you get noticed for your talent instead.

    Also, don't be fake. If you're not sure what your niche is yet, don't push it. Stay true to yourself and your music.

  4. Grow your Database - In addition to keeping tracks of the contacts you have, don't be afraid to help your database grow by adding some "dream" contacts to your list. Is there an agent you want to take notice of you? Then include them on your press release mailing list or promo mailing list when you have big news to share. Let them know you're still working and still building your career - pretty soon, they may be knocking on your door.

  5. Take a Deep Breath - For many people, the idea of self promoting their music to their fans is easy, but the idea of calling up the press is downright terrifying. Relax. Here's the truth - some people you call will be nice, some people won't be. Some people will never return your calls or emails. Some will. You shouldn't take any of it personally. You definitely shouldn't be afraid to try. Covering bands is the job of the music media - they expect to hear from you. Don't be discouraged by someone who is rude, or someone who is polite, but still says "no". Don't write them off, either. Next time, you may hear "yes."

How To Get a Gig

One of the best ways to build up a fan base for your band is to get out there and play live, as often as your can. But often bands find themselves between a rock and hard place - to get a gig, you need an audience, but to get an audience, you need a gig. You can rise above that, however, and get your band in front of the crowd if you follow the right steps. This how-to guide will cover getting a single show, but many of these steps can be built upon to book your band an entire tour.

Difficulty: EasyTime Required: N/AHere's How:
  1. Think Locally - The best place to start looking for gigs is in your own backyard. Get to know the music scene in your area. What venues and promoters are willing to give up and coming bands a chance? What bands in your area play live often and might need a support act? What venues in your area put on touring bands, who might need a local opening act? To get a gig, all of these factors can come into play. Approaching the right venues will open doors to you, and there is strength in numbers, so working together will the other bands in the area will increase the opportunities for everyone. (Plus, you can share gear!)

  2. Get your Promo Package Together - Have a standard package ready to introduce yourself to venues and promoters. Much like the package you use when you send a demo to a label , this promo package should be short and sweet. Include a short demo CD, a short bio or one sheet to introduce the band, and some press clippings, if you have any (especially ones that review live performances). If you're going to approach people by email instead, cut and paste the info into the body of an email and include a link to a site where your music can be heard. Don't send attachments - most people won't open them.

  3. Approach the Venue - To get a gig directly with a venue, call and find out who is in charge of booking bands and send them your promo package. They may tell when to contact them again. If not, give them about a week, and follow up by phone or email. Keep trying until you get an answer. If you've haven't played live much, your best bet is try to get on an existing bill with a band that already has a bit of a following. Keep in mind that if you book with a venue, you may be in charge of promoting the show yourself and paying venue rental fees, unless you are invited on to an existing concert bill.

  4. Approach the Promoter - If you'd rather not self promote and take on venue fees, you can approach a promoter to get a gig. Send your promo pack to the promoter and follow up in the same way you would with a venue. If a promoter agrees to get you a show, they will book the venue and promote the show for you, but you may need to send them posters you have made yourself to do so.

    If the promoter doesn't want to put you on by yourself yet, ask them if they have any shows you could play as an opening act. If they say no, check in from time to time to remind them you are always available as a support act.

  5. Understand the Deal - This is the trickiest part for most bands. First, understand that when you are just getting started, you often will not make money on your shows. In fact, you may even end up out of pocket. That doesn't mean it was all for nothing - building up your fan base will mean you do make money on future gigs.

    If you do make money, you will either have a deal where you get paid a pre-agreed amount no matter how many people turn up, or you will have a door split deal . Either deal is fine and fair. Focus on building your audience and not the money right now.

  6. Play the Gig - Sounds obvious, I know, but the way you handle the gig can have a lasting impact on your ability to get future shows. Show up on time for the soundcheck and if there are other bands playing, remember everyone needs time for their soundcheck. Be professional - there is likely to be free drinks around, but remember everyone is there to hear your music, not to see if you can handle your beer. Don't sell yourself short by getting on stage in anything but your top shape, ready to play a great show. Play a good show, be courteous and professional, and you'll soon be getting more show offers!

Tips:
  1. Don't Get Caught Up on the Deal - This is worth repeating. Your goal is build up your audience. Promoters and venues are taking a chance on you when you are just getting started - they will be more willing to give you a chance if you don't have a lot of financial demands.

  2. But Don't Pay to Play - If you're putting on your own show, of course you may have to pay a venue hire fee and you may to pay some promotional costs. However, don't pay money simply to get on a bill, and don't trust anyone who asks you to.

  3. Invite the Press - Keep the entertainment writers at your local papers informed about your activities and always invite them to the show. Also, keep your local radio stations up to date on what's happening with your band and when you're playing.

  4. Respect the Guest List - Guests lists have a way of getting out of hand, fast. Don't push it with promoters with the guest list when you are trying to build up a name for yourself. If you're part of a larger bill, you may not even have any guest list spaces. If you do, use what you have and be done with it. Don't try to get 50 of your closest cheapskate friends into every show for free. You'll get a bad name for yourself.

Demo (music)

demo version or demo of a song (shortened from the word "demonstration") is one recorded for reference rather than for release. A demo is a way for musicians to approximate their ideas on tape or disc, and provide an example of those ideas to record labels, producers or other artists. Musicians often use demos as quick sketches to share with bandmates orarrangers; in other cases a songwriter might make a demo to send to artists in hopes of having the song professionally recorded, or a music publisher may need a simple recording for publishing or copyright purposes.

Many unsigned bands and artists record demos in order to obtain a recording contract. These demos are usually sent to record labels in hopes that the artist will be signed onto the label's roster and allowed to record a full-length album in a professional recording studio. However, large record labels usually ignore unsolicited demos that are sent to them by mail; artists generally must be more creative about getting the demos into the hands of the people who make decisions for the record company.[citation needed]

Songwriters' and publishers' demos are recorded with minimal instrumentation - usually just an acoustic guitar or piano, and the vocalist. Both Elton John and Donovan gained studio experience early in their careers by recording publishers' demos for other artists, since their managers also handled music publishing.

Many signed bands and artists record demos of new songs before recording an album. The demos may allow the artist to provide sketches for sharing ideas with bandmates, or to explore several alternate versions of a song, or to quickly record many proto-songs before deciding which ones merit further development.

Demos are typically recorded on relatively crude equipment such as "boom box" cassette recorders, small four-track or eight-track machines, or on personal computers with software such as Audacity, but sometimes they capture the feeling or intent of the artist better than the final version of the song, after the input of managers, producers and sound engineersLou Reedsought out a studio in the late 1980s to record his New York album, where the polished sound would satisfy him as much as that of the rough cassettes he'd been making at home. (The B-side to the album's single was actually a transferred home tape.)[citation needed]

Demo recordings are seldom heard by the public, although some artists do eventually release rough demos in rarities compilation albums or box sets. Other demo versions have been unofficially released as bootleg recordings, such as The BeatlesKinfauns Demos. Several artists have eventually made official releases of demo versions of their songs as albums or companion pieces to albums. The event of a demo tape appearing on eBay has happened in the past, with the recordings being leaked onto the internet.

In more underground forms of music, such as noise musicblack metal or punk, demos are often distributed by bands to fans as self-releases, or sold at a very low price.

Record Demo Don'ts

Have you sent your demo to record labels more times than you can count, but you just can't seem to get a bite? Sometimes, you can do everything right when you send your demo to a label, and still nothing happens. However, that doesn't mean that there aren't a lot of things you could be doing wrong that are putting the brakes on your music career before it can even get started. If you can't even get the labels to pay attention to you long enough to turn you down, check and see if you have commmitted any of these deadly sins of demos. If so, repent and correct that dangerous demo behavior, and you may end up with that deal you've been after.

Homework? Uh, We Had Homework?:

When someone asks you what your band sounds like, you say Joy Division, but when you are sending out demos, you're addressing envelopes to Jay-Z. A label has to be into your kind of music to have any interest at all in releasing your record, so make sure you investigate the labels that you approach with your music. That doesn't mean that every label you like should get a demo, either. The right labels to start with are the ones who work with bands who have a similar sound to you.

The TMI Effect:

Does your promo package come with a band bio can only be described as a novella? Does your demo have 25 tracks on it? Then you are guilty of weighing down the record labels with too much information. Short and to the point is the golden rule of promo packages and demos. If your package looks like it will take a week to wade through, the label is likely to send it straight to the bin. How much info is too much? Here's a hint - if your band bio mentions your childhood, you've gone too far.

Track Listing Trials:

Somewhat related to the previous idea, your demo itself should be short and sweet - a couple of songs, ideally. Obviously, then, picking the best songs is crucial. Instead of thinking about the songs of which you are most proud, think of the songs that grab you instantly. You want to stack your demo with songs that have strong beginnings, because you only get a few seconds before someone pushes that "next" button. Don't pick the "growers" - the label is unlikely to take the time to let the growing occur. This idea holds true even if you insist on filling your demo with loads of material. Don't think that a label is going to take the time to listen to 15 songs just because you put them on there. You still need to front load your demo with the big bang songs if you want the listener to push on through the rest.

Rules Were (Not) Made to Be Broken:

Many labels have rules about demos that you absolutely have to follow if you want to make it through the door. In fact, many times these rules have to do with getting permission to send a demo in the first place. The labels are not trying to be mean to you - receiving unsolicitied demos can land labels in legal trouble if they're not careful, when someone who sent them a demo suddenly claims that the label ripped off their songs. Demo policies can usually be found on label websites. Respect the rules.

Is There a Song Here Somewhere?:

Don't, don't, don't fall into the trap of thinking that you need to shell out big bucks to have a demo professionally recorded before a record label will give you the time of day - not true. Your recording can be low-fi, but it does have to be audible. If your demo is more white noise than White Light/White Heat, try again. There are plenty of relatively inexpensive music recording software programs out there that can help you turn out a perfectly fine demo on a budget. And, of course, old school though it may be in this digital age, many a record deal has been signed off the back of a four track recording. Strike the right balance between spending wisely on your demo and turning out a recording that clearly contains some music.

You're Still in the "Development Stage":

You can't expect every song you write to be a home run, and when you are just getting started, you may be turning out a few stinkers while you're finding your voice. Hey, it happens. If you're having a hard time judging the label-readiness of your songs, grab a few of your most honest friends and get the lowdown from them. It helps to hold off on sending things out to record labels until you feel like you have some songs that are album ready. If you start slinging out demos every time you hum a few bars, the labels will start dreading your packages. However, that doesn't mean that you should let a few thumbs down messages from labels stop you from sending out demos in the future. Just be sure that you are putting your best foot forward on every demo you send to a label.

Getting the right demo to the right label at the right time takes a lot of hard work and even more luck. Finding that deal is a process, so settle in, and keep honing your skills while you're searching for that perfect label. In the meantime, however, you can increase your odds of getting label attention dramatically by avoiding these big time demo don'ts. Now that these don'ts are out of the way, get the scoop on some important demo dos.

Record Demo Dos

You know the record demo don'ts - all of those little things you can do to shoot yourself in the foot when you send your demo to a record label. But what about the record demo dos? These demo musts will show your demo off in the best light when you send it to a label, so you have the best chance of getting someone to pay attention to your music.

The Right Approach:

At some indie labels, the staff can be so small that the head of A&R is the same as the person in charge of distribution, promotion and coffee making. For these labels, simply sending a demo addressed to the label is good enough. For other labels, however, you need to send your demo to a specific person if you want it to have any chance of being heard. Know the difference. Most label's have their demo policies listed on their websites. Check them out, and if you are still not sure, send an email to the label to find out how your demo should be addressed.

Organize Yourself:

Fancy folders and laminated press releases never won anyone a record deal, but your packageshould be organized and contain all of the relevant material. Make sure your demo is in there, obviously, and also include a short band bio. You band bio and any other similar material should be typed, and it pays to proofread. A handwritten personal note to accompany your package is ok (provided your writing is legible), but everything else should be typed.

Short and Sweet:

No record label wants to wade through your 20 track demo. A demo is just that - a demonstration of your music. It is not your whole catalog. It may seem like giving the label tons of options works in your interests, but really it just makes your demo look overwhelming, when there is a stack of other demos that need to be listened to as well. Pick a few of your best tracks - the ones that grab you from the get go - and leave it at that. If they want to hear more, they'll let you know.

Be a Show-Off:

Now is the time to let the labels know about your band's achievements. When you send your demo, make sure you highlight information about past tours, press coverage, radio play or any other achievement that might make someone sit up and take notice. If you have interest from a distributor, a manager, an agent, or any other person who could help raise your profile, make sure you let that be known as well.

Share Your Email:

If you want to hear back from a label about your demo, make sure you leave your email address with them. You can include your phone number if you want, but labels don't usually have the time (or desire) to call you up and chat about your demo. Make it easy for them to communicate with you by giving them your email address.

Don't Leave it at No:

When you send your demo out to labels, you should be prepared for the fact that you are going to be hearing a lot of the word "no." Being told no never killed anyone - it's important for your music career to be willing to take the risk and ask for something, even if no is the answer. But even more important than making peace with hearing no is to learn to not leave it at that. If someone tells you they aren't interested in your demo, follow up and ask them if they can think of someone else who might like it. It could be that you've missed someone along the way who is dying to release a record just like yours.

Mind Your Manners:

How many times have you sent an email out or made a phone call about your band only to be ignored? It happens to everyone - and it happens a lot. That's why it is so great when people actually take the time to share some advice with you or talk to you about your demo. When it happens - say thank you. Not only is it the decent thing to do (you'd be surprised how many people don't bother with the whole gratitude thing), it puts a little goodwill in the bank for you. Who do you think is more inclined to help you out in the future - someone who took some time out to share some advice with you and who was rewarded with a thank you, or someone who tried to help you out, only to receive no reply from you? Exactly.

Turn That Frown Upside Down:

As I said earlier, the word "no" is one you're bound to hear a lot of when you send out demos. You can't take it personally, and you can't let it discourage you. When a label turns you down, most of the time it comes down more to your kind of music not being a good fit for the label or to the label not having any room in their schedule for new releases. When you get turned down, consider your demo, decide if there was anything you could have done differently that might have made a difference, and then learn from it and move on to the next label. End of story.

Sending out demos can be a little bit stressful, but you can increase your chances of getting your demo to the right people by following these demo sending tips. Above all else, remember to follow the demo rules of the label and keep your demo short - you'll win instant friends at the label when you make their job easier in this way.

TIPS

  • If opting for a professional recording, make sure you practice like hell before you enter the studio. You should eat, sleep and breathe the songs. Time in studio is precious and you don't want to waste time in unnecessary retakes.
  • When doing home recording there will be a lot of problems initially. Do not lose hope, try to find a way out.
  • Be satisfied with the recording. No home recording is ever perfectly perfect. None of the studio recordings are that perfect too.
  • Always get the deal in writing.
  • Find out who keeps the master tapes until the deal is made.
  • Lock into consecutive recording dates. Many spec deals drag on and on.
  • Try to find someone to produce your dates.
  • Speak with the engineer, and insist he come to rehearsal.
  • Be specific about your plan. Are you only recording? Or mixing? Or both?
  • What's included in the deal? Extra amps? Mics? Outboard gear?
  • Confirm your actual days and hours of recording.
  • Let your engineer know your plan ahead of time so he can prepare the studio before you arrive to record.
  • It's a good idea to occasionally treat the engineer to lunch or dinner.
  • If things are going great, make certain you let the owner know about it.
  • Don't waste time. Be serious, but have fun doing it.

Warnings

  • Make sure the studio owner cannot release the masters to anyone.
  • Are the recording facilities acceptable for mixing?
  • Find out if your spec deal means you have to pay the engineer.
  • If you're mixing at the same studios, be sure to leave with a DAT copy and cassette copies of your songs.
  • Don't make any deal without seeing and hearing the actual studio you will be using.

Things You'll Need

  • Equipment I mentioned at the start
  • Money (if doing a studio recording)
  • A band
  • Devoted hours of practice
  • Self determination
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