Top 10 Tips for EDM Producers to Get Signed by a Record Label

20 Mar

How to Get a Record Deal: A Deep Dive for EDM Producers

The aspiration to secure a contract with a record label is a powerful motivator for many electronic dance music (EDM) producers. A record deal can open doors to wider exposure, professional recognition, and the resources to take your career to the next level. However, the EDM landscape is fiercely competitive. Whilst talent is essential, a strategic and knowledgeable approach is equally critical to navigate this challenging environment and increase your chances of success.

This in-depth guide will provide you with the essential tips and strategies to maximise your potential to get signed by a record label.

Top 10 Tips for EDM Producers to Get Signed by a Record Label

1. Music Quality and Genre Alignment Are Paramount

The Foundation of Success: The absolute prerequisite for any aspiring EDM artist is consistently producing music that meets professional standards. This encompasses every aspect of music creation, from the intricacies of production to the clarity of mixing and the final polish of mastering. Record labels are highly selective, actively seeking exceptional compositions that resonate with their target audience. A strong understanding of music theory, composition, and production techniques is crucial.
The Power of a Polished Demo: Your demo is your calling card. It should showcase your very best work, fully mixed for clarity and balance, and ideally mastered to achieve a professional sonic quality. Avoid submitting unfinished ideas or tracks still in development. Labels prioritise artists who present a product that is essentially ready for release, minimising their initial investment.
Genre Alignment: A Strategic Imperative: It's essential to align your musical style with the specific genre and artistic direction of the record label you're targeting. Labels cultivate distinct sonic identities and actively seek artists whose music complements their existing catalogue. Research your target labels thoroughly, paying close attention to their recent releases, current roster, sonic preferences, and the overall vibe of their releases. This targeted approach is far more effective than a broad, unfocused distribution of demos.

2. Strategic Label Research and Targeting

Finding the Right Fit: Identifying record labels that align with your music requires a strategic and thorough research process. Begin by investigating labels associated with artists who have influenced your musical journey, especially those labels that supported these artists early in their careers.
Leveraging Online Resources: The digital landscape offers a wealth of specialised online resources to streamline this process. Platforms such as BeatStats, Labelsbase, and 1001Tracklist provide curated listings of record labels categorised by EDM subgenres, along with valuable data on their chart performance. Explore blog articles, YouTube videos, relevant playlists, and DJ mixes to discover potentially suitable labels.
A Focused Approach: Once you've compiled a list of potential labels, focus your efforts on a select few (one to three) that genuinely resonate with your artistic aspirations. This allows for personalised submissions that demonstrate a genuine interest in the label and its work. Avoid a "shotgun" approach of sending generic demos to a large number of labels, which can appear unprofessional and lacking in strategic thinking.

3. Building a Professional Online Presence

SoundCloud as a Starting Point: In today's music industry, a professional online presence is indispensable. A well-curated SoundCloud profile, even for artists still building their following, serves as a crucial initial point of contact and assessment for labels. Look to the profiles of established artists on your target labels for inspiration regarding styling, logo design, and photography, ensuring that your own profile projects a strong and cohesive brand identity whilst maintaining your unique style.
Maintaining Exclusivity: Upload demo tracks as private links. This maintains the exclusivity of your music, which is important to record labels that seek to be the first to release a particular track. Publicly accessible tracks might deter labels.
Social Media Strategy: Maintain an active and professional presence across various social media platforms to promote your music and engage with fans. Research which platforms your target audience and the record labels you are interested in are most actively using (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, SoundCloud), and focus your efforts strategically.
Consistent Branding: Consistency in branding is paramount across all online platforms. Use a unified visual identity (colours, fonts, imagery), compelling bios, and content that authentically reflects your unique style and musical offerings.
Engaging Content: Regularly share demos, snippets of work-in-progress tracks, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your creative process to engage your audience and provide valuable content.
Demonstrating Promotional Capacity: A robust social media presence demonstrates your capacity to reach and engage an audience. Labels often expect artists to actively participate in promoting their music, and a strong online following is a key indicator of your ability to do so.

4. Networking and Relationship Building

The Power of Connection: Cultivating genuine relationships within the music industry holds considerable value. Attend music events, seminars, workshops, and conferences to connect with fellow artists, producers, promoters, and label representatives.
Leveraging Social Media: Use social media to connect with artists on your target labels, particularly those with a smaller but actively engaged following (under 30,000 followers).
Building a Collaborative Environment: Engage with other producers and artists online by offering thoughtful comments on their music, sharing their tracks, and providing genuine support. Networking in this manner can lead to collaborations, valuable feedback, and potential recommendations to record labels.
Offering Value First: A crucial aspect of effective networking is the principle of offering value to your connections before seeking favours or promoting your own music. Provide assistance, share their music, include their tracks in your playlists, and offer constructive feedback. Building rapport and establishing genuine connections based on mutual support is more effective than immediately asking for someone to listen to your music.

5. Mastering the Demo Submission Process

Adhering to Submission Policies: Submitting a demo requires meticulous attention to detail. Carefully read and adhere to each label's specific demo submission policy. Use the label's preferred method of contact (dedicated platform, email address, or contact form). Avoid sending demos through direct messages on social media unless explicitly requested.
Format Requirements: Ensure your demo submission meets the label's specified format requirements, including file types (MP3 or WAV), bit rates, and proper tagging of files with your name and track title.
Professional Presentation: Present your demo in a professional manner. Send a private streaming link (SoundCloud or Dropbox) with the option for the recipient to download the track. Avoid attaching audio files directly to emails.
Personalised Introductory Message: Include a concise and personalised introductory message (no more than a few sentences). Introduce yourself, explain why you believe your music is a suitable fit for the label, and highlight any achievements or relevant experience. Address the A&R representative by name, if known.
Providing Easy Access to Information: Include links to your professional online profiles (SoundCloud, social media) in your email signature.
Curated Track Selection: Limit your initial demo submission to a carefully curated selection of two to three of your strongest and most representative tracks that closely align with the label's sound and genre focus.

6. Understanding the EDM Record Label Landscape

Diverse Label Categories: Aspiring EDM artists should understand the diverse landscape of EDM record labels. Labels can be broadly categorised into major labels, their subsidiaries, large independent labels, small independent labels, and niche labels.
Major Labels: Major labels (e.g., Universal Music Group, Sony Music, Warner Music Group) possess extensive resources and global reach but are often highly selective and may exert significant control over an artist's career.
Major Subsidiaries: Their subsidiaries (e.g., Spinnin' Records, Astralwerks, Ultra Music) often retain a degree of independence whilst benefiting from the major label's infrastructure.
Large Independent Labels: Large independent labels (e.g., Armada Music, Monstercat, Mad Decent) often boast considerable marketing power and a strong artist-centric approach.
Small Independent Labels: Small independent labels, frequently run by artists themselves, may lack the promotional capabilities of larger entities but can offer more personalised support and artistic freedom, often serving as a valuable starting point for emerging producers.
Niche Labels: Niche labels cater to specific subgenres within EDM (e.g., underground techno or dubstep), fostering a strong sense of community within their particular sound.
Strategic Targeting: Understanding these categories is crucial for artists to establish realistic expectations and strategically target labels that align with their current career stage and future aspirations. Smaller independent labels might be more receptive to signing emerging talent and can provide valuable experience and exposure in the early stages of a career.

7. Professionalism and Persistence Are Key

Maintaining a Professional Demeanour: Maintaining a consistently professional demeanour in all interactions with record labels and industry professionals is paramount. This includes clear and concise communication, punctuality, politeness, and respect. Have professional photographs and other branding materials readily available. Projecting professionalism fosters trust and conveys that you are serious about your musical pursuits.
Cultivating Persistence and Resilience: Rejection is an inherent aspect of the music industry. Receiving a "no" from a label should not be interpreted as a definitive judgement on the quality of your music. View rejections as learning experiences and respectfully solicit feedback when appropriate.
Consistent Output and Improvement: Maintain a consistent output of new music, persistently refine your craft, and continue to submit demos to relevant labels, demonstrating unwavering dedication and a proactive approach to improvement.

8. Seeking and Utilising Constructive Feedback

The Value of Feedback: Actively seeking and effectively utilising constructive feedback is indispensable for the growth and development of any aspiring EDM producer. Engage with a network of trusted producer friends to exchange feedback.
Leveraging Online Platforms: Online platforms like music production forums, Facebook groups, and feedback services (e.g., SubmitHub) offer opportunities to receive critiques.
Specificity in Feedback Requests: When seeking feedback, be specific about the aspects of the track on which you would like input (e.g., mixing quality, arrangement, sound design).
Open-Mindedness: Cultivate an open-minded approach to criticism, avoiding defensiveness when receiving suggestions.
Identifying Areas for Improvement: Identify recurring themes or consistent issues highlighted in the feedback to pinpoint specific areas in your production workflow that require focused attention.
Incorporating Feedback: Experiment with suggested changes and actively incorporate valuable feedback into your music production process for continuous growth.

9. Building Your Artist Brand Beyond Music

Crafting a Compelling Narrative: Crafting a compelling artist story and brand that extends beyond the realm of music is crucial for connecting with a wider audience and standing out to record labels. This encompasses the selection of a memorable artist name, the creation of a distinctive logo, the development of a consistent visual style, and the articulation of an overarching message or artistic vision.
Authenticity and Originality: Authenticity and originality are highly valued in brand development, allowing you to forge a genuine connection with your listeners. A well-defined artist brand helps to differentiate you in a saturated market and fosters a deeper emotional resonance with your audience.
The Importance of Visual Content: In the digital age, high-quality visual content is essential. Professional photographs, captivating album artwork, and engaging music videos are crucial for enhancing your brand and capturing the attention of your audience.
Strategic Use of Visual Platforms: Utilise visual platforms such as Instagram and YouTube strategically to showcase this content and further amplify your online presence.

10. Patience and Realistic Expectations

The Long Game: Navigating the path to getting signed by a record label necessitates patience and realistic expectations. Securing a record deal demands time, dedicated effort, and unwavering persistence. Building a successful and sustainable music career is a journey that rarely yields overnight results.
Focus on Continuous Improvement: Focus on the continuous refinement of your craft and the consistent dissemination of your music whilst maintaining a long-term perspective.
Setting Achievable Milestones: Setting achievable milestones and acknowledging small victories can help maintain momentum and a positive outlook.
Realistic Notions: Temper your expectations and avoid unrealistic notions about the ease or speed with which a record deal might be obtained.
Strategic Targeting of Labels: Emerging artists often find more success initially targeting smaller independent record labels, which may be more accessible and willing to take a chance on developing talent.
Concentrating on Attainable Objectives: Establishing realistic goals and focusing on attainable milestones can contribute to a more fulfilling and sustainable journey within the music industry.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Path to a Record Deal

Securing a contract with a record label requires a multifaceted approach that integrates musical talent with strategic planning, consistent dedication, professional conduct, and unwavering persistence. Prioritise the creation of high-quality music that aligns with the sonic identities of your target labels, coupled with the development of a strong and authentic artist brand. Effective networking and the cultivation of genuine relationships within the industry can open doors to valuable opportunities. Approach the demo submission process with meticulous attention to detail and maintain a professional demeanour throughout all interactions. Finally, understand the diverse landscape of EDM record labels and maintain patience with realistic expectations to significantly enhance your prospects of achieving your goal. With dedication, a strategic mindset, and a persistent spirit, the aspiration of getting signed by an EDM record label is indeed attainable.

Additional Key Strategies

Define Your Sound and Build Your Brand: Hone your craft, experiment with different styles, and create a sound that is unmistakably yours. Create a compelling artist bio, develop a visual identity, and maintain an engaging online presence through a professional website and active social media profiles. Regularly release high-quality music to keep your audience entertained.
Prepare an Impressive Demo and EPK: Craft a compelling demo that showcases your best work. Select your strongest tracks and present them in a professional and engaging manner. Include a well-crafted artist bio, press photos, and relevant information about your music in a professional Electronic Press Kit (EPK).
Understand What Labels Look For: Labels look for musical proficiency, originality, innovation, creativity, and a commitment to consistently producing high-quality music. They will likely check your social media numbers and, more importantly, fan engagement, growth, likes, shares, and comments.
Consider Alternatives: Understand the advantages and disadvantages of working with a label. Consider self-releasing your music or explore "record label as a service" entities. You can also consider starting your own record label.
Seek Honest Feedback and Be Open to Continuous Improvement: Get honest feedback on your music from trusted sources before submitting it to labels. Be willing to learn and continuously adapt and improve your skills. Don't be discouraged by a 'no'; it's an opportunity to learn.
Be Consistent in Your Music Releases and Online Activity: Consistency is key. Labels want to work with artists who are active and consistently releasing music. Maintain consistent marketing and content creation efforts as well.

How Many Followers Do You Need to Get Signed?

There isn't a definitive number of followers you need to get signed; rather, it's a combination of factors.

No Exact Number: Most sources agree that there is no magic number of followers that guarantees a record deal.
Major Labels: Major labels typically look for artists who can command significant attention on social media, often in the range of 20,000 to 100,000 followers or more.
Indie Labels: Indie labels might be more open to signing artists with a smaller but engaged following, with some sources indicating that acts with 2,000 to 8,000 followers can and do get signed.
Engagement Over Quantity: Engagement rates, growth, likes, shares, and comments are often more important to labels.
Proof of Concept: A strong fanbase, even if not massive, demonstrates that there is an audience for your music.
Virality: Going viral on platforms like TikTok has become a significant way to get noticed by record labels, even without a large established following.
Consistency and Growth: Labels want to see that your numbers are consistently growing across different platforms.
Quality Music is Foundational: Regardless of follower count, high-quality music that fits the label's style is the essential foundation.

How Do Music Producers Get Signed?

Music producers can get signed to record labels through several interconnected avenues, with a strong emphasis on the quality of their work and strategic networking.

Crafting High-Quality Music and a Unique Sound: The most crucial factor is the quality of the music the producer creates. Producers should hone their craft and experiment with different styles to develop a unique and recognisable sound.
Building a Professional Portfolio and Demo: Producers need to have a collection of their strongest tracks to showcase their abilities. The demo should be presented professionally, typically via a downloadable, private SoundCloud or Dropbox link.
Researching and Targeting the Right Labels: Producers should thoroughly research record labels that align with their musical style and career goals. Emerging producers might find more success by targeting smaller independent labels first.
Submitting Demos and Approaching Labels: Many labels have a dedicated email address or platform for demo submissions. The approach should be professional and personalised, demonstrating that the producer has done their research.
Networking and Building Relationships: Building relationships with industry professionals is vital. This can involve attending music industry events and connecting with artists already signed to target labels.
Building an Online Presence and Fanbase (Especially for Producer/Artists): Having a strong online presence is increasingly important. Building a loyal fanbase and demonstrating an ability to generate buzz can make a producer more attractive to labels.
Considering Different Types of Deals: Producers might be offered production agreements, or some labels specialise in instrumental music.
Seeking Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Producers should seek honest feedback on their music from trusted sources and be open to constructive criticism.

How to Get Picked Up by a Label?

Getting picked up by a label involves a multi-faceted approach centred on creating excellent music, strategic outreach, and professional presentation.

Music Quality and Suitability: The quality of your music is paramount. Ensure your tracks are well-produced, mixed, and mastered to a professional standard. Your music must align with the specific sound and genre of the label you are targeting.
Researching and Targeting Labels: Focus on a small number of highly relevant labels rather than a mass submission approach. Consider the stage of your career when targeting labels.
Preparing a Professional Demo Submission: Carefully read and follow the submission guidelines on the label’s website. Your demo should be polished and of high quality. Make it easy for the label to listen to your music. Include a well-crafted artist bio, press photos, and relevant information about your music.
Networking and Building Relationships: Networking within the music community can increase your chances. Attend industry events and connect with other artists and industry professionals.
Building Your Brand and Online Presence: Develop a unique artist identity, image, and message. Build an engaging online presence on relevant social media platforms.
Understanding What Labels Look For: Labels are businesses looking for artists they can market and sell. They want to see potential for growth and return on