Aspiring artists and musicians often ask me what they need to do to “make it” in the music business. One of the first things I ask them is to define “make it”. For some, it means to become the next Superstar sensation. In fact, that seems to be how most define “making it”. But, when I ask them if they would be happy making a living in the music industry, just about all give a resounding “YES”. Then I give them the magic three words – “Invest In Yourself”.

Today’s music industry barely resembles the music industry of a decade ago. Long gone are the days of Major Record Label deals for unproven talent. The A&R (artist and repertoire) representative is but a shadow of his/her former self. To even consider getting any type of Deal, an artist or group has got to have proven record sales, social media prowess, and/or a consistent fan base to attend live shows or purchase merchandise. How does one develop this track record? You have got to start now, and do for Self.

The technology of today (i.e. recording tools, social media opportunities, advancements in video production, etc.) has created a more level playing field for independent artists than what existed just a few years ago. Facebook and Twitter have revolutionized the entire process of marketing and sales. Reverbnation has created an entire portal for an artist, musician, or band to showcase their music, land gigs, and promote themselves. YouTube has single-handedly given birth to the careers of Soulja Boy, Justin Bieber, Avery, and about a dozen other emerging superstars. If you are an aspiring artist and have not set up a Facebook, Twitter, and/or YouTube account, then you are neglecting to invest time into your own career. If you are not willing to invest time, who else will?

Studio recording and video production costs have significantly decreased in recent years. At one time it could have cost an artist or band 10’s of thousands of dollars to make an industry standard recording of their music and a decent music video. Today, commercial-quality recordings and videos can be done for a fraction of the cost. There are dozens of independent recording studios and video producers in small and large cities all over the country. Just by doing a little homework (or a little Googling), an artist can find studios and videographers in their area. After checking their portfolios and determining an appropriate budget, most artists will find that the cost to produce a commercial quality-project is within reason. If you’re not willing to invest money in yourself, who else will?

If recording and video costs are more than a band or artist can afford, then there are a couple of options: 1) Save money (by working a full or part time job) or 2) Invest in your own recording or video equipment. There are some aspiring musicians and artists who don’t want to get a day, or night, job to support their careers. This can be a costly mistake. Just saving a few hundred to a thousand dollars could either afford commercial production services or allow one to purchase their own equipment. If you’re not willing to do this, then who will?

Some might say, “I don’t know how to record or produce video.” And, this might be true today. But, there are classes and online tutorials for just about every subject matter imaginable. A few months of classes can give an artist more skills and diversity by which to navigate the elusive path to “making it”. In addition, it offers a trade by which an individual can make money by charging others for their services. In the independent music arena, YOU ARE A BUSINESS. And, if you don’t treat your own career like a business, then who will?
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Samori Coles is the CEO and Founder of Lil’ Drummaboy Recordings. He has Produced, Recorded and provided career direction and guidance to hundreds of local, national and international artists, musicians and bands. A veteran of the performance stage, Samori has performed as a solo artist, as well as a front man for the bands ‘Hip-Soul’ and ‘LILDRUMMABOY.COM’. An advocate for Indepence, he built Lil’ Drummaboy Recordings initially as a record label, but has transformed it into a service provider and cultivator of Independent Artistry.