How To Stand Out In The Music Industry

In today’s highly competitive music industry, finding a way to make a name for yourself as an artist can feel almost impossible at times. After all, there are probably millions of aspiring musicians with the same goal as you. And just to add insult to injury, chances are that at least a few of them have some kind of edge over you, wether that’s more connections, a little more raw talent, or more money to market themselves with. However, you can still have shot at success if you make the right decisions. That’s why it is so essential to have a strategy that not only evens the playing field but sets you apart from everyone else.

I will do my best to guide you through some of the important steps you can take to help you stand out in the music industry and increase your chances of making it big. Whether you’re an aspiring singer, songwriter, or instrumentalist, these tips and insights will help put you in a position to rise above the competition.

Learning Music Production is a MUST

A trend in the must industry that is becoming more and more common to see, is artists recording and producing their own music. If you aren’t at least giving music production a shot in 2023 then it’s likely that you are falling quickly behind. Producing your own music not only gives you a bigger cut of the precious royalties you earn on each stream, it gives you a near limitless level of creative expression. Some well-known artists that you may not know produce their own music are Lauv, Owl City, Keshi, Bazzi, and that’s just to name a few. There is a reason these artists have become so successful and it’s because they can convey exactly which emotions they want to with their choice in sound design and element/sample selection.

Create Your Own Sound Effects

Nowadays, if there is a specific sample or sound effect you have in mind that would fit your song, you can probably find it somewhere on the internet. Pretty cool right? Let’s say that you go on Google every time you need a specific sound because it will fit perfectly in your new song. It could be the sound of a car door closing, light rain hitting the ground, or a distant siren. But here’s the catch. What ever sound effect you find free for download online is within the reach of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of other people. This will significantly take away from the uniqueness of your work. Fans don’t want to listen to the same samples and sound effects being regurgitated over and over.

This is why taking the time to record your own samples and sound effects will make your music so much better and really separate you from anyone out there making similar music. One of the magical things about producing your own music is that you have complete control over which sounds you use and how you edit or manipulate them. This is perhaps the easiest and best way that you can set yourself apart when it comes to the actual music you put out into the world. I have already created a whole guide detailing exactly how you can go about making your own sound effects that you can check out Here.

Break Musical Boundaries

One of the most critical factors in standing out in the music industry is developing a unique and distinct sound. While it’s natural to be inspired by your musical idols, you should strive to create something that is unmistakably your own.

Spend time reflecting on your musical influences and what aspects of their music resonate with you. Identify the elements that make you passionate about music. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different genres and styles. Mix and match influences to create something entirely fresh.

One way that you can do this is by collaborating with other musicians that don’t necessarily fit the label of your genre. This can bring new perspectives and ideas into your music, ultimately helping you develop a more unique sound.

Finally, make sure that you are continuously exploring and studying different music genres and styles to broaden your musical palette. This can help you bring diverse elements and sounds into your music.

Actively Develop Your Songwriting

Relatable lyrics and catchy melodies are the foundation of a successful music career. Developing your songwriting skills is absolutely essential for standing out. Here are some ways that you can do it.

1. Study songwriting: Read books, take courses, and analyze the songwriting techniques of artists you admire.
2. Keep a journal: Write down your thoughts, ideas, and lyrics regularly, even if you have to do it on your phone. Inspiration can strike at any moment.
3. Edit and refine: Don’t settle for your first draft. Edit and refine your songs until they are the best they can be. I often go through dozens of drafts to end up with a song worth recording.
4. Write with someone else: Co-writing with others can lead to fresh and exciting ideas.

Be Authentic And Show The World

Your brand is more than just your music, it’s how you present yourself to the world. Building an authentic brand will make you more relatable and memorable to your audience. Make sure that you are thoughtfully creating a unique visual style that reflects your personality and music. It is important to be yourself. Authenticity resonates with audiences and builds trust with your listeners. This should translate over to your logo, album artwork, and stage presence. If you can do your own graphic design you can save a lot of time, money, and portray your brand exactly the way you want to. It may take time to learn but it is well worth it.

The Power Of Social Media in the Music Industry

In today’s digital age, you can’t say that you are giving it your best if you aren’t making an effort to post your music on social media. This aspect of the music industry tends to be something that a lot of artists, including myself, struggle with. It can be difficult to feel genuine when following popular trends on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, but sometimes it is necessary if you want to grow your audience. Consistency is one of the key factors here. Make sure you are posting at least once a week somewhere online to stay engaged with your fans and to show the world that you are here to stay.

Network, Collaborate, and NETWORK

No that is not a typo. The music industry is built on relationships. Networking with other musicians, producers, promoters, and industry professionals will open doors for you that are otherwise out of reach. The saying “It’s not about what you know but about who you know” is not a joke when it comes to the music industry. Attend music events, conferences, and local gigs to connect with like-minded individuals. Collaborations with other artists can also expose your music to new audiences.

Never Stop Learning

The music industry is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay informed and adapt. Keeping learning new music production techniques, talk to music professionals either online or in-person if possible. Attend workshops, take online courses, and stay updated on industry trends. Continuous learning and growth are essential for long-term success.

Final Thoughts

Standing out in the music industry is not an easy task. It requires talent, dedication, and a well-thought-out strategy. By finding your unique sound, developing your songwriting/production skills, and properly utilizing social media, you can build a strong and authentic brand. If there is one thing you take away from everything we have discussed, just remember to never stopping your pursuit of knowledge and growth. Success in the music industry often takes time, so stay patient and persistent on your journey to becoming a standout artist.

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