How to Submit Your Music to Record Labels: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you want to send your music to record labels effectively, I'll show you the right way to do it. Here's a clear, step-by-step process that will maximize your chances of success.
Before Sending Your Music:
1. Polish your music to professional quality 2. Create a strong electronic press kit (EPK) 3. Research appropriate labels for your genre 4. Prepare high-quality audio files (WAV format preferred)
Creating Your Submission Package:
Your submission should include:
- 2-3 of your best tracks - A brief bio (150 words maximum) - Professional press photos - Links to your social media profiles - Contact information - Any notable achievements or press coverage
Finding the Right Labels:
Start by making a list of potential labels that:
- Release music in your genre - Work with artists at your career level - Have a track record of responding to demos - Accept unsolicited submissions
Submitting Your Music:
Follow Label Submission Guidelines Each label has specific submission requirements. Find these on their website and follow them exactly. Some prefer:
- Email submissions - Online submission forms - Demo submission platforms - Physical mail (less common today)
Use Professional Platforms Consider using established platforms like:
- Label Radar - SubmitHub - SoundCloud (if accepted by the label)
Writing Your Email:
Keep your email brief and professional:
- Clear subject line (include "Demo Submission") - Personalized greeting - 2-3 sentences about your music - Streaming links or attachments (as per guidelines) - Thank them for their time
Follow-up Protocol:
- Wait 2-3 weeks before following up - Send only one follow-up email - Be polite and brief - Accept that no response usually means "no"
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Mass emailing multiple labels - Sending unfinished tracks - Including too many songs - Writing long, unfocused emails - Being pushy or demanding - Sending music to inappropriate labels
Professional Tips:
- Build relationships in the industry before submitting
- Ensure your online presence is professional
- Consider working with a music lawyer or manager
- Keep track of where and when you've submitted
- Continue creating new music while you wait
Remember, patience is crucial in this process. Many successful artists faced multiple rejections before finding the right label. Keep improving your craft and building your fanbase while you submit to labels.
The music industry is constantly evolving, so stay updated with current trends and submission practices. If you don't hear back, keep creating and try again with new music when you're ready.
Don't get discouraged by rejections - they're a normal part of the process. Focus on making great music and building genuine connections in the industry while you pursue label opportunities.