Nowadays in the music industry, it's hard for young artists to get anywhere, especially if they're not living in a city like New York City or Los Angeles. If you're from a state as remote as Maine, for example, then it's an especially long journey to fame. But before you can start worrying about record deals or sold out stadiums, you have to get your name out there (take it from someone still in that stage). Here are four tips that should help pave the way to local recognition.
1. Make good connections.
Establishing a good social media presence is key to this step. From Facebook to Snapchat, there is no such thing as too many outlets for your band to share their stuff. Invite everyone you know to like and follow your pages, and like and follow other local bands so that they follow you back. Local performances usually include many bands playing in one show. That means that if you make nice with other local bands who are already performing, you have a better chance of getting that sweet invite to play a show.
2. Remember that you're starting from the bottom.
This applies to every aspect of getting started in the music industry. No matter how talented you are, everyone starts out the same way: unknown. That means you can't be thinking you're better than everyone else out there, because you still have to prove it. Some things I've learned from personal experience: never refuse a performance opportunity based on what kind of venue it is. Unless it's too far away or unsafe, always take the opportunity to perform. Also, don't assume that people will know about your performances. Advertise, advertise, advertise! Shameless self promotion is the only way you can get performing and get people to attend.
3. Support other local music.
This ranges from what bands you see to where you buy instruments and equipment. It's important to support local businesses whenever possible. If there's a local music venue near you, go see shows there and give them your money. Soon you'll be needing a place to perform! Support local bands by going to their shows so that they come to yours! Buy your gear local! This is probably the hardest one to do since buying online is so much cheaper and easier, but it will be so worth it. Your local music store is a hub for bands to share news, so having that outlet when you need to get the word out about your upcoming show can be really important. Moral of the story, if you support local music, it will support you!
4. Make sure that you're having fun!
It sounds cliché, but if you're not having fun while playing music, it makes you want to quit right then and there. So in order to keep the dream alive, make sure you're having a good time. Although talent and skill in music are important, so is having a band of people who you can actually stand to be around. Make sure that band practice isn't uptight and stressful the whole time. Have some band bonding time. If you're not having fun while playing your music with your band, it's time to talk it over with them, or move on to something where you are having fun. If you chose to do that, then you start the getting discovered process all over again!
