Blog

Landing a record deal is a dream for many artists. 

But in today’s music industry, figuring out how to get a record label to notice you isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re aiming to join a major label or an indie powerhouse, there are steps you can take to increase your visibility, refine your brand, and ultimately, improve your chances of getting signed.

Getting signed by a record label starts and ends with YOU. Yes, it’s about talent, strategy, presence, and knowing what labels actually want. But ultimately it is about being your authentic self and creating what you believe in. That is what others would like to hear.

This guide covers practical steps to build your foundation, make connections, and show labels you’re ready for the next big step.

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I’m thrilled to be joining this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) as a speaker, discussing key topics that are shaping the future of the music industry. 

Since its launch in 1996, ADE has become a global hub for music professionals, artists, and innovators, attracting over 400,000 visitors annually. It’s a premier platform where the future of electronic music is shaped, and key conversations about the industry are held.

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In today’s music landscape, the conversation around music rights is louder than ever. 

Owning your music is no longer an option – it’s a must. If you’re serious about your career, it’s crucial to know what’s at stake and why controlling your music copyright gives you the upper hand.

Let’s break it down, keep it simple, and show you why taking charge of your music rights will unlock your full potential as an artist.

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Did you hear about the latest buzz in the sports and music world? 

NBA teams are the latest among sports and brands to face legal trouble for using music in their social media posts without proper licenses. Major music rights holders, including Kobalt, Artist Publishing Group, Notting Hill Music, and Prescription Songs, have filed lawsuits against 14 NBA teams. 

The teams, including the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat, are accused of using music in their TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X videos without the necessary sync licensing deals.

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Did you know that music sync licensing can be your golden ticket to earning beyond streaming?

And we thought streaming was the be-all and end-all.

Imagine hearing your track in a TV show, movie, commercial, or even a video game. It’s not just about getting your music out there; it’s about finding new revenue streams and maximizing your earning potential.

Music sync licensing connects your music with visual media, turning your art into a valuable asset. To give you a little nudge in the right direction, I decided to write this guide. It will take you through everything you need to know to tap into these exciting opportunities and take your music career to the next level.

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Did you know that there is a new subgenre of country music called “Nordicana” – Nordic Americana music?

And we thought genres were dead. 

I’ve been in the industry long enough to see trends come and go, but the rise of country music popularity in recent years is something really interesting.

Country music has always had its loyal fan base, but the question now is why is its popularity at an all-time high? With digital platforms, social media, and cross-genre collaborations fueling its growth, country music is reaching new heights and attracting a diverse audience. This surge in popularity is not just a trend; it’s a movement that reflects the evolving landscape of the music industry.

Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or a curious observer, this dive into country music’s rising popularity will offer valuable insights and spark engaging discussions.

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That AI is accelerating change in the music industry is not news. But, with the big streaming platforms ruling how music is listened to, the technological evolution is worth pausing to look at.  

As AI technologies evolve, they are increasingly being used to generate personalized playlists, reshaping the landscape of music curation and raising important questions about the future of how we interact with music.

This prompts the question: How should your business model evolve to capitalize on the increasing use of AI for music curation? Alternatively, where does the investment flow when AI steps up to personalize the music experience?

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Welcome back to our small music label adventure.

In the first part, we got into the details of running a label, using my experiences with Klassified Music as our guide. We discussed a range of topics, including refining your label’s identity and tips for building an audience in a sustainable way.

Now, let’s take a step further and examine additional strategies for small labels to truly thrive in the music industry.

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If you’ve ever felt the calming effect of soft background music while studying or the boost of energy from an upbeat playlist during a workout, you’ve experienced functional music without even realizing it.

Functional music isn’t about catchy tunes or memorable lyrics; it’s about purposeful soundscapes designed to enhance our daily lives. From helping us focus and stay productive to aiding relaxation and promoting better sleep, functional music has the power to shape our mood and mindset in profound ways.
Let’s explore what functional music is all about, how it works its magic on our brains and bodies, and why understanding its role is more important than ever in today’s fast-paced world.

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At the recent NAMM conference, I had the privilege of speaking about the latest trends in artist monetization, top of mind for all of the music and creator industries.

In today’s fast-paced music industry, understanding how to generate revenue streams is crucial for artists looking to turn their passion into a thriving business.

Let me explain this better.

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