Even if you’re already an excellent singer, take vocal lessons. A singing instructor can teach you how to project and protect your voice, to practice properly, and to expand your vocal range, as well as show you new techniques. [1] X Research source
You can develop a distinctive sound by having a unique voice, playing with an exotic accompanying instrument, using different vocal or production effects, or doing something else to set your sound apart. Instead of trying to sound like your influences, add your own personal style to your voice and your music. Don’t be afraid to express yourself.
For instance, if you aren’t comfortable wearing a full spandex suit in neon green, don’t do it just to gain attention. Your performance will be affected if you aren’t comfortable with the way you look and feel. Kiss is a great example of a band that made a very unique look for themselves to help promote their music. In fact, the style they created was so successful that even people who have never heard their music can identify the band by their costumes and makeup.
Being able to ignore detractors can be just as important as having a positive attitude. Especially in today’s connected world of social media, comment sections, and Internet trolls, there will always be people who have negative things to say, and you will have to learn to ignore them. [5] X Research source
Charity events Local sports games Bars, clubs, lounges, and coffee shops[7] X Research source Weddings and parties Concerts, exhibitions, and battle of the bands nights
There are thousands of independent and local recording studios out there you can use to record a single or a few tracks, and you might be surprised to find that there’s even one in your town. A quick Internet search should give you an idea of where to go to record some music.
Knowing your sound is important because it can help you direct your music at your target audience. For instance, if you’re a rapper, you might want to consider booking yourself a gig at a local poetry slam rather than at a country bar. Understanding your audience can also help you when you want to stand out in a crowd. For example, if you know your music appeals to cat lovers for some reason, you could book yourself a show at a local animal shelter fundraiser. [8] X Research source
For starters, you should have accounts with all the popular social media sites for your music. This includes Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Myspace, Bandcamp, Buzznet, and more. [10] X Research source Take videos and recordings of all your performances, and share them on your social media pages. Be sure to include links where people can also purchase the demos and tracks you’ve recorded professionally. If you develop a following on YouTube, you can make money off of the videos you post. [11] X Expert Source Timothy LinetskyMusic Producer & Instructor Expert Interview. 13 February 2019.
Blogs and music reviewers[14] X Research source Record producers and executives Band managers who work with acts similar to yours
When you send your music, be sure to address specific DJs, presenters, and show producers. [17] X Research source Try to target specialty shows and stations that might be more open to independent acts.
Don’t just focus on musical artists when you’re considering a collaboration. Artistic crossover can happen with dancers, visual artists, poets, and filmmakers, and this can give you an even larger audience.
