It’s common for musicians to struggle to get signed to record deals because they base their careers on myths about how the music industry works. Don’t go down this same road. Educate yourself and begin creating personal value you can offer to record companies.

Below are three critical mistakes tons of musicians commit when trying to get recording contracts (and what you need to do instead):

Mistake #1. They Only Work On Developing Musical Skills

Although many people do so, it is a mistake to only focus on developing your musical skills when trying to build a music career. Becoming a better musician is important, however, record companies are looking for musicians who offer the whole package – this includes being a business asset. It’s easy for them to find good musicians everywhere they look… but what is truly valuable for them is finding someone who has not only musical talent, but a knack for the business side of the industry, an entrepreneurial mindset and other characteristics outside of just being a musician.

Take the time to really look into how the music industry works outside of just the musical side of things. Locate a mentor who can help you transform yourself into a true asset for a record company.

Mistake #2. Their Mindset Conflicts With The Mindset Of Most Record Companies

A lot of musicians believe that music companies take advantage of musicians, so they are quick to criticize ideas like capitalism, business or making money. Companies see this instantly in anyone they consider working with. When they see musicians like this, they avoid them. Musicians who achieve great success in music know that music is a business. They do not have the mindset that making money is immoral. They want to work together with others in the music business to help everyone make a good living through music. They add value and create win/win situations.

Focus on becoming a musician like this by always thinking of ways to offer value in any interaction you have with others. Give other people in the music industry a good reason to want to work with you. A good way to offer value to others in the music business is to grow a database of fans who you can contact at any time. When you have a huge database, record companies will seek you out.

Mistake #3. They Have Too Much Risk Associated With Them

If a music company is unsure of the following things, it means you have a high risk factor to them: how strong your work ethic is, how loyal you are, your mindset and what kind of track record you have working with others in the music business. Record companies want to be sure you are the right person to work with before working with you. They need to know exactly where you stand with the things mentioned above before they even give you a chance.

Look for ways you can show your value in this areas to give record companies incentive to invest into your music career.

Read this column to get more in-depth information for how to easily get a record deal.

 

Author's Bio: 

About The Author:

Tom Hess is a recording artist, composer and a touring musician. Tom is also a professional music career mentor and coach to many musicians from all different countries around the world. In his music industry success program, he has taught musicians how to transition for their day job to a full time career in music and get signed to a record deal in order to fulfill their dreams in the music business.