Getting a record deal

Why Most Musicians Struggle To Get A Record Deal

* Written by: T. Hess

Tons of musicians fail to get record deals because they build careers based on myths about the music industry. Don't make their same mistakes. Educate yourself about the music business and focus on building personal value to offer to music companies.

Here are 3 mistakes most musicians make that keep them from getting record deals (and what to do instead):


Mistake #1. They Only Focus On Their Musical Skills And Songwriting

It's a mistake to spend all of your time practicing your musical skills and songwriting when you want to grow a music career. These elements are important, but record companies look for actual business value in musicians they work with. They can find good musicians anywhere... what they want is someone who has the total package of: musical skills, business mindset and other skills beyond raw musical abilities.

Set aside time each week to learn about how the music industry works. Find a mentor who shows you what to work on to make yourself a valuable asset for any music company.


Mistake #2. Their Mindset Is In Direct Conflict With Record Companies' Goals

Many musicians think that record companies are out to "screw" musicians and otherwise condemn capitalism, businesses and money. Companies can smell this mindset form a mile away and never work with such musicians. Musicians who become successful understand that music is a business. They do not believe there is anything wrong with earning a living doing with music and are glad to work with others in the industry so that everyone prospers. These musicians seek to add value for others in order to get value back. Everyone wins.

Focus on becoming a musician who offers tons of value to other people in this business. Develop a win/win mindset by making sure there is "something in it" for any company who might want to work with you. One way to offer value is to build up a list of fans who you can easily contact. The bigger the list, the greater your perceived value in the eyes of a record company.


Mistake #3. They Have Too Many Unknowns About Them (Risk)

When the following things are unknown, it makes you a risk for any music company: your work ethic, loyalty, win/win thinking, track record of previous successes or relationships with other people/companies in music. Record companies are reluctant to work with musicians when they don't have this information. 

Seek out ways to demonstrate your value in these areas to help companies understand that working with you is a worthwhile endeavor.