In the music industry, your ability to network can make a huge difference. Though talent is your foundation, it is often your relationships that will actually open doors for you. Building relationships with music industry pros and artists can lead to amazing opportunities and collaborations that will help you advance your music career. Be careful though, networking isn’t just about collecting contacts!
While most musicians spend a lot of time perfecting their recording skills or live performances, it is equally crucial to be proactive in building a network. Here are some ways to expand your entourage and connect with artists and professionals in the music industry.
1. Be authentic
One key principle is to build authentic relationships. Engage with people on a personal level, not just to get something out of it. Maybe understand how you can help each other. Remember, a strong network is based on authenticity.
Social media is very effective for creating long-distance relationships. Instagram, TikTok, and even Reddit are great platforms to expand your network within the music industry. Be careful, the idea is not to just contact lots of people, but rather to send short messages to artists you particularly like or music professionals with whom you would like to exchange. Make sure not to spam them. Send a nice little message explaining your approach. Even online, the same principles of authenticity and building genuine relationships should govern your interactions.
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3. Get in touch with playlists, media, labels, and music professionals
Send your music to playlist curators, media outlets, labels, and other music industry professionals via Groover. Whether their response is positive or negative, try to create a connection. If their answer is negative, don’t hesitate to thank them for their feedback, to say that you take it into account and that you will send them your next songs in the hope that they will like them more. It is even possible that some labels or managers will offer to meet you in person and discuss your musical project and your ambitions. In any case, the advantage of Groover is that you can be sure that your music will be listened to in less than 7 days and that you will get a response.
4. Play live concerts
Live performances offer artists more than a chance to show off their talent. They offer opportunities to network with other artists, managers, and members of the audience who could be potential fans or even partners. These interactions and connections can greatly assist a musician‘s professional growth.
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It is essential to be ready to seize every opportunity. Being able to establish and maintain relationships in the music industry can turn your dream into reality.
5. Go to concerts
Concerts where artists and music professionals gather can be a great place to build your network. Whether it’s small concert shows or showcases, these moments allow you to interact with artists, managers, labels, etc. Approach conversations with positivity and curiosity to leave a good impression, and try to stay in touch afterward.
6. Go to music festivals
Music festivals are fertile events for networking. As a rule, they bring together music enthusiasts, artists, labels, managers, etc. Attending these events provides an opportunity to meet one-on-one and engage key industry stakeholders while sharing common interests in music.
7. Attend music industry conferences
Attending music industry conferences is another great networking strategy. They are platforms for artists, labels, turners, music publishers and managers to meet. You probably know the MaMa Festival, for example. Regular dialogue and engagement with such individuals can lead to productive collaborations, mentorships, and potential recording contracts.
Joining music-related clubs or groups can provide networking opportunities. They often host conferences, meetings, open mics, concerts, and outings where you can meet like-minded people, artists, and music industry pros.
9. Do a music residency
Participating in writing residencies and meetings where musicians come together to collaborate can be a prolific avenue for networking. Artists can share experiences, learn from each other, and create music together. This type of collaborative environment fosters relationship building and can potentially lead to long-term professional partnerships or even great friendships.
| See also: Types of Music Residencies and How to Get One
Conclusion
In the highly-competitive landscape of the music industry, networking is of monumental importance. Not only does it open the doors to opportunities, but it also paves the way for learning and development.
Networking also cultivates a sense of community and camaraderie among musicians that helps maintain career longevity and resilience. Having a support network of industry insiders can make navigating the complex music industry considerably easier.
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Networking takes time, and building a strong set of relationships won’t happen overnight. However, by being intentional, patient, and keeping an optimistic attitude, doors can open that you’ve only dreamed of. Remember, behind every successful artist are countless bonds and relationships that have been cultivated and nurtured over time.
For aspiring artists looking to break into the industry, networking is one of the keys to success. Beyond raw talent, it’s your relationships that can put you on the road to a rewarding career in music. So get out there, reach out, and start building relationships for your success.
– Translated by Kole Wright –
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