Get A&R to listen to your demo

Hear is some powerful advice on how to get A&R to listen to your demo…

"When you contact record labels or managers it is very important to do it the right way. If you do it wrong, you might not get a second chance (this is where the right demo is important again).

A good way of finding the people that would be good for your career is to find out who is behind artists that you can associate with. If you like what Britney's label has done for her, you should contact them and tell them about yourself.

When you call them, ask for the A&R in charge if Britney. If they don't answer the phone, leave a message telling them very briefly who you are and say that you would like them to hear your demo. Say that you can post or e-mail it but that you want to double-check that it's all right with them before you do.

Obviously give them your telephone number, but don't expect them to call you back. Instead say "I'm gonna try you again later this week… hope that's okay" Leave it 3-5 days before you call again. If they don't pick up when you call the second time, don't leave a message! Give it another 2-3 days and then try again. If they don't answer then, leave a message saying that you've now posted a demo to them and it should arrive in a few days (4-5 days internationally). Say, "I'll try and get hold of you again in a week... hope that's okay".

Now they've heard your name 3 times, they know you are polite and they know you are serious about your career. Congratulations, you are already miles ahead of the competition!

Call them a week later and if you're lucky enough to get through, ask them if they've heard it and what they think. Remember to be humble but confident. DO NOT BE ARROGANT, because if they don't like you they will not listen to your stuff ever again. If they have heard it and like it… well done! - You got the demo right!!! If they don't think it's for them, ask them for feedback and if they know anyone that might be interested your demo.

You should always be grateful if someone gives you feedback on your material. After all… they are the professionals you are trying to understand! You might have to contact a hundred people, before someone gets back to you, but if the right one likes your stuff, you're off!"

In conclusion, you have to remember that the people in charge at the labels and with the managers are very busy people and it's not personal if they don't get back to you. If they like your stuff enough they will, but until then contact the next one. The music industry is not as big as it might seem. Most big labels, managers and publishers know each other, so if you are rude to one of them the others are likely to know and you may have ruined your chances of success. Just be nice and professional to everyone and you will reach your goals. But until then… get your demo right, be yourself and the rest will follow!

Be the best at being you!

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