A lot of musicians and bands out there want to make a demo so that they can get good gig's or find a record label that will sign them to a deal. So how do you make a demo that will get noticed?
First thing is that you need to know what is expected of you as a musician or a band. A demo or demonstration record is the most important way for you to communicate that image. It lets the rest of the world know how serious you are, how detailed your vision is and how much work you are willing to put into "making it".
So here is what you are going to need to get that done.
Audio
First thing you should concentrate on is getting a quality recording. These days that is not that difficult. If you have a computer, a microphone or two (the more the better) and a good software program like Protools or countless other programs you can make a good recording in your garage or house. Make a CD, it does not have to look fancy but the more professional it looks the better.
If you don't have a computer I would suggest practicing so you have your music down super strong and then rent a recording studio for a day and knock out 3 songs that day.
The Demo should that 3 COMPLEATE songs for any A&R or management executive to take you seriously.
Video
It might help to send them a DVD if your show has some special attraction that can't be heard on a CD. These days it is easy to get your video out there on Myspace, Facebook, Youtube and your own website is easy to create, even if you know nothing about HTML.
So if you send a CD you can write your youtube address on the CD cover. It is an important piece of the media puzzle for your band. Also if you do it right and get some good sound you can strip the audio out of the video and have another copy of a song for you to get out to a podcast…
Lyrics
If your music has lyrics you should have a typewritten page with all the lyrics. Every page should have your contact information on it. That means the bands name, the songwriters name, an email address, phone number, a physical address (like a home) and any other way that you can be contacted.
Your Communication
Keep your communication to a minimum. A few short sentences explaining why you sent them this package is enough. Check your spelling because this is a reflection on how professional you are.
These people are busy so don't bog them down with a cover letter that tells them where every one in the band was born and how many animals they own. They don't care. Put a picture of yourself or the group. A good one!
Checklist
- Just to make sure you have what is needed here is a checklist for you.
- 8 ½ X 11 envelope with bubble rap on the inside.
- Picture of you/band
- Short letter of explanation of why you are sending them your demo
- Typewritten Lyric Sheet
- Music Score (if you know how)
- CD Demo
- A self-addressed envelope with return postage; make sure you have enough stamps on it so they will send you back a letter!
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For more information about how to build your confidence, improve your creativity and make better music visit http://www.bebop2pop.com and get your copy of 9 secrets to better music.
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