6 answers
Aaryn
Student
Holland, Ohio
2
Questions
Asked
566 views
how does becoming a professional musician work?
Music is a huge passion of mine but I don't know how to break through and get music out there how does it work and how long does it take to start getting published and radio play? How does it work meeting people to find places to play at?
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6 answers
Jonas Everett
Music Producer
5
Answers
Yucaipa, California
Updated
Jonas’s Answer
When it comes to music and putting yourself out there it's all networking. First I would try and go to either cdbaby, tune core, or distrokid. Choose from one of those sites to get your music out to all streaming platforms. They might cost from 20-80 dollars depend on which package you want to choose from. As well as signing up with BMI or ASCAP those will help bring in your money, and register for SoundExchange they bring in your money from around the globe form radio playlist to dj playlist.
Anthony Royster
Creative Director, Senior Designer
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Hey Aaryn,
I grew up in Ohio so I can relate to how a little difficult it can be when getting you music out there. I’ve published over 60+ songs in the years and been to several music meetup groups, so I think I can help.
First off you can publish you music through Independent websites like Distrokid or CD baby.
Second you can meet people through music groups in your area on “Meetups” or “Eventbrite” app.
There is not much information I have about radio play beside reaching out to radio stations and submitting your music. Use social media to find who’s who.
Hope this helps kiddo, keep up the good work.
Best,
Anthony
I grew up in Ohio so I can relate to how a little difficult it can be when getting you music out there. I’ve published over 60+ songs in the years and been to several music meetup groups, so I think I can help.
First off you can publish you music through Independent websites like Distrokid or CD baby.
Second you can meet people through music groups in your area on “Meetups” or “Eventbrite” app.
There is not much information I have about radio play beside reaching out to radio stations and submitting your music. Use social media to find who’s who.
Hope this helps kiddo, keep up the good work.
Best,
Anthony
Austin Bradley
Live and studio musician
31
Answers
Millington, Tennessee
Updated
Austin’s Answer
Hello and good morning.
Thank you being a professional musician is actually a state of mind it's when you know that music is your passion and you would much rather do it than to do anything else there's no time frame of breaking into music is really a being in the right place at the right time so to speak. One thing I would say about being a professional musician due to the fact that I am one myself is how well you know your craft how well you know your instrument how will you know your music and most importantly how will you know yourself as I said before being a professional musician is really a state of mind and once you have decided that you were there then you're there. Hope this helps.God bless.
Thank you being a professional musician is actually a state of mind it's when you know that music is your passion and you would much rather do it than to do anything else there's no time frame of breaking into music is really a being in the right place at the right time so to speak. One thing I would say about being a professional musician due to the fact that I am one myself is how well you know your craft how well you know your instrument how will you know your music and most importantly how will you know yourself as I said before being a professional musician is really a state of mind and once you have decided that you were there then you're there. Hope this helps.God bless.
Dylan Labon
Musician
10
Answers
Ponca City, Oklahoma
Updated
Dylan’s Answer
There is not a singular solution in how to break through the music industry. Some famous musicians, like Charlie Puth and Lada Gaga, started by gaining relevant music education at accredited performing arts schools. This not only allowed them to build the necessary skills to become great musicians, it also gave them a network to help spread their creativity and build their audience. Conversely, musicians like Justin Bieber, Halsey, and The Weekend built their careers by uploading performance videos on social media platforms like YouTube. However, the elements that all of the famous performers have in common are patience, participation, and passion. None of these people became music juggernauts overnight. They put in consistent work driven by a deep desire to become performers.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
614
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Aaryn,
Good to hear how music career are about music! Becoming a professional musician can be an exciting but challenging journey, requiring a combination of talent, persistence, and networking. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Honing Your Craft
- Develop your skills: Constant practice is essential, whether it’s singing, playing an instrument, or composing.
- Find your unique sound: Experiment with different genres and styles until you develop a signature sound that sets you apart.
- Learn about the music industry: Understand the basics of music publishing, royalties, and contracts. This knowledge can help you protect your rights and maximize your earnings.
2. Creating and Recording Music
- Start writing/producing songs: Many musicians write their own music or collaborate with other songwriters and producers.
- Recording: You’ll need high-quality recordings, which can be done in a professional studio or a home studio with good equipment.
- Distribution: Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and SoundCloud make it easier for independent artists to share their music.
3. Building a Fan base
- Social Media Presence: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter to engage with potential fans and share your music journey.
- Live Performances: Start playing gigs locally at open mic nights, bars, clubs, and festivals. You can even busk in public spaces to build a local following.
- Networking: Attend local music events, meet other musicians, and connect with people in the industry like producers, sound engineers, and event organizers.
4. Marketing Your Music
- Promote your releases: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to tease upcoming music, share behind-the-scenes footage, and connect with your audience.
- Submit your music to blogs, playlists, and radio stations. Some independent radio stations and streaming playlists feature emerging artists.
- Music publishing: Work with a music publisher to get your songs placed in films, TV shows, and commercials, which can increase exposure.
5. Getting Published and Played on Radio
- Self-publishing: With platforms like DistroKid or TuneCore, you can publish your own music on streaming platforms.
- Radio play: Start small by reaching out to local radio stations or internet radio platforms. Some stations have slots for emerging artists, especially if you’re part of a local scene.
- Timeframe: It can take months or even years to build enough traction to get regular radio play, but persistence and the right connections are key.
6. Networking and Booking Gigs
- Start local: Build relationships with venue owners, booking agents, and other artists to find opportunities to perform.
- Online presence: Websites like GigSalad, ReverbNation, and Sonicbids help artists find gigs and festivals.
- Collaborations: Collaborate with other musicians or producers to cross-promote each other’s work, which can help expand your audience.
Timeline:
- Building a career: The timeline varies for each artist. Some break through in months, while others take years to build a steady audience and get noticed.
- Consistency is key: Releasing music consistently and performing live as much as possible can help build momentum.
Remember, building a career in music is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused on your goals, continue to develop your skills, and never give up on your passion.
Best wishes!
Good to hear how music career are about music! Becoming a professional musician can be an exciting but challenging journey, requiring a combination of talent, persistence, and networking. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Honing Your Craft
- Develop your skills: Constant practice is essential, whether it’s singing, playing an instrument, or composing.
- Find your unique sound: Experiment with different genres and styles until you develop a signature sound that sets you apart.
- Learn about the music industry: Understand the basics of music publishing, royalties, and contracts. This knowledge can help you protect your rights and maximize your earnings.
2. Creating and Recording Music
- Start writing/producing songs: Many musicians write their own music or collaborate with other songwriters and producers.
- Recording: You’ll need high-quality recordings, which can be done in a professional studio or a home studio with good equipment.
- Distribution: Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and SoundCloud make it easier for independent artists to share their music.
3. Building a Fan base
- Social Media Presence: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter to engage with potential fans and share your music journey.
- Live Performances: Start playing gigs locally at open mic nights, bars, clubs, and festivals. You can even busk in public spaces to build a local following.
- Networking: Attend local music events, meet other musicians, and connect with people in the industry like producers, sound engineers, and event organizers.
4. Marketing Your Music
- Promote your releases: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to tease upcoming music, share behind-the-scenes footage, and connect with your audience.
- Submit your music to blogs, playlists, and radio stations. Some independent radio stations and streaming playlists feature emerging artists.
- Music publishing: Work with a music publisher to get your songs placed in films, TV shows, and commercials, which can increase exposure.
5. Getting Published and Played on Radio
- Self-publishing: With platforms like DistroKid or TuneCore, you can publish your own music on streaming platforms.
- Radio play: Start small by reaching out to local radio stations or internet radio platforms. Some stations have slots for emerging artists, especially if you’re part of a local scene.
- Timeframe: It can take months or even years to build enough traction to get regular radio play, but persistence and the right connections are key.
6. Networking and Booking Gigs
- Start local: Build relationships with venue owners, booking agents, and other artists to find opportunities to perform.
- Online presence: Websites like GigSalad, ReverbNation, and Sonicbids help artists find gigs and festivals.
- Collaborations: Collaborate with other musicians or producers to cross-promote each other’s work, which can help expand your audience.
Timeline:
- Building a career: The timeline varies for each artist. Some break through in months, while others take years to build a steady audience and get noticed.
- Consistency is key: Releasing music consistently and performing live as much as possible can help build momentum.
Remember, building a career in music is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused on your goals, continue to develop your skills, and never give up on your passion.
Best wishes!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6333
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Aaryn,
ME:-
Twenty years ago I wrote music generation software with VB6 and MIDI.
AI:-
How Becoming a Professional Musician Works
Becoming a professional musician is a multifaceted journey that involves talent development, networking, marketing, and understanding the music industry. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in this process:
1. Developing Your Craft
The first step to becoming a professional musician is honing your musical skills. This includes:
Learning an Instrument or Vocal Training: Depending on your focus (instrumental or vocal), you should invest time in learning how to play an instrument or improve your singing abilities. Consider taking lessons from qualified instructors or using online resources.
Songwriting and Composition: If you aspire to create original music, developing songwriting skills is crucial. Study song structures, lyrics, and melodies by analyzing songs from various genres.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve your technical skills and builds confidence in your performance abilities.
2. Building a Portfolio
Once you have developed your skills, it’s essential to create a portfolio that showcases your work:
Record Demos: Create high-quality recordings of your best songs. These can be simple home recordings or professionally produced tracks.
Create an Online Presence: Establish profiles on platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or YouTube where you can share your music with potential fans and industry professionals.
Social Media Engagement: Use social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) to connect with audiences and promote your music.
3. Networking in the Music Industry
Networking is vital for any aspiring musician:
Attend Local Shows and Open Mics: Participate in local music events to meet other musicians and industry professionals. This can lead to collaboration opportunities and gigs.
Join Music Associations or Groups: Organizations such as the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) provide resources for musicians including networking events.
Utilize Online Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn can help you connect with industry professionals while platforms like ReverbNation offer opportunities for musicians to network.
4. Finding Gigs
Getting live performance experience is crucial:
Contact Local Venues: Research local bars, clubs, coffee shops, and theaters that host live music. Reach out with your demo and express interest in performing.
Use Gig-Finding Websites: Websites like Sonicbids allow musicians to apply for gigs at various venues across the country.
Collaborate with Other Artists: Join forces with other musicians for joint performances which can help expand your audience base.
5. Getting Published and Radio Play
The process of getting published and securing radio play involves several steps:
Music Publishing: Consider working with a music publisher who can help get your songs placed in films, commercials, or recorded by other artists. Alternatively, self-publishing through platforms like TuneCore allows you to distribute your music independently.
Radio Promotion Services: Hiring a radio promotion service can increase the chances of getting airplay on local or national stations. They have established relationships with radio programmers which can be beneficial for exposure.
Submit Your Music Directly to Stations: Research independent radio stations that support new artists; many accept submissions directly from musicians looking for airplay.
6. Timeframe for Success
The timeline for breaking into the music industry varies widely based on several factors including talent level, dedication, networking efforts, and market conditions:
Some artists may start gaining traction within months if they are proactive about promoting their work.
For others, it may take years of consistent effort before achieving significant recognition or commercial success.
Ultimately, patience and persistence are key components of this journey as building a career in music often requires time before seeing tangible results.
Conclusion
Becoming a professional musician involves continuous learning, strategic networking, effective marketing of yourself and your music, as well as perseverance through challenges along the way. By following these steps diligently while remaining passionate about creating music, you increase your chances of success in this competitive field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Berklee College of Music
A leading institution providing comprehensive education on various aspects of music including performance techniques and industry insights.
2. American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)
A professional organization that offers resources for songwriters including networking opportunities within the industry.
3. Billboard
A reputable source for news related to the music industry including trends in publishing and radio play strategies for emerging artists.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
ME:-
Twenty years ago I wrote music generation software with VB6 and MIDI.
AI:-
How Becoming a Professional Musician Works
Becoming a professional musician is a multifaceted journey that involves talent development, networking, marketing, and understanding the music industry. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in this process:
1. Developing Your Craft
The first step to becoming a professional musician is honing your musical skills. This includes:
Learning an Instrument or Vocal Training: Depending on your focus (instrumental or vocal), you should invest time in learning how to play an instrument or improve your singing abilities. Consider taking lessons from qualified instructors or using online resources.
Songwriting and Composition: If you aspire to create original music, developing songwriting skills is crucial. Study song structures, lyrics, and melodies by analyzing songs from various genres.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve your technical skills and builds confidence in your performance abilities.
2. Building a Portfolio
Once you have developed your skills, it’s essential to create a portfolio that showcases your work:
Record Demos: Create high-quality recordings of your best songs. These can be simple home recordings or professionally produced tracks.
Create an Online Presence: Establish profiles on platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or YouTube where you can share your music with potential fans and industry professionals.
Social Media Engagement: Use social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) to connect with audiences and promote your music.
3. Networking in the Music Industry
Networking is vital for any aspiring musician:
Attend Local Shows and Open Mics: Participate in local music events to meet other musicians and industry professionals. This can lead to collaboration opportunities and gigs.
Join Music Associations or Groups: Organizations such as the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) provide resources for musicians including networking events.
Utilize Online Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn can help you connect with industry professionals while platforms like ReverbNation offer opportunities for musicians to network.
4. Finding Gigs
Getting live performance experience is crucial:
Contact Local Venues: Research local bars, clubs, coffee shops, and theaters that host live music. Reach out with your demo and express interest in performing.
Use Gig-Finding Websites: Websites like Sonicbids allow musicians to apply for gigs at various venues across the country.
Collaborate with Other Artists: Join forces with other musicians for joint performances which can help expand your audience base.
5. Getting Published and Radio Play
The process of getting published and securing radio play involves several steps:
Music Publishing: Consider working with a music publisher who can help get your songs placed in films, commercials, or recorded by other artists. Alternatively, self-publishing through platforms like TuneCore allows you to distribute your music independently.
Radio Promotion Services: Hiring a radio promotion service can increase the chances of getting airplay on local or national stations. They have established relationships with radio programmers which can be beneficial for exposure.
Submit Your Music Directly to Stations: Research independent radio stations that support new artists; many accept submissions directly from musicians looking for airplay.
6. Timeframe for Success
The timeline for breaking into the music industry varies widely based on several factors including talent level, dedication, networking efforts, and market conditions:
Some artists may start gaining traction within months if they are proactive about promoting their work.
For others, it may take years of consistent effort before achieving significant recognition or commercial success.
Ultimately, patience and persistence are key components of this journey as building a career in music often requires time before seeing tangible results.
Conclusion
Becoming a professional musician involves continuous learning, strategic networking, effective marketing of yourself and your music, as well as perseverance through challenges along the way. By following these steps diligently while remaining passionate about creating music, you increase your chances of success in this competitive field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Berklee College of Music
A leading institution providing comprehensive education on various aspects of music including performance techniques and industry insights.
2. American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)
A professional organization that offers resources for songwriters including networking opportunities within the industry.
3. Billboard
A reputable source for news related to the music industry including trends in publishing and radio play strategies for emerging artists.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.