How to Submit Demo Tracks to Record Labels: A Complete Guide
Sending demos to record labels can be a game-changing step in your music career, but it needs to be done right. I'll show you exactly how to submit your music professionally and increase your chances of getting noticed.
First, ensure your music is ready for submission. Your tracks should be: - Professionally mixed and mastered - In high-quality format (WAV or AIFF, minimum 16-bit/44.1kHz) - Your absolute best work - Complete, not works in progress
Before sending anything, research the right labels: - Find labels that release music in your genre - Check their submission guidelines - Follow their recent releases - Make sure they're currently accepting demos
Here's how to prepare your demo package:
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The Music
- Include 2-3 of your best tracks
- Provide download links (WeTransfer or Google Drive)
- Never attach large files directly to emails
- Make sure links don't expire too quickly
-
The Email
- Use a professional email address
- Write a clear subject line: "Demo Submission - [Your Artist Name]"
- Keep the message brief and professional
- Include basic information about yourself
- Mention why you chose their label specifically
Your email structure should look like this: - Greeting (address the right person if possible) - Brief introduction (2-3 sentences) - Music description (genre, influences) - Links to your music - Social media links - Thank you and sign-off
Important things to remember: - Never mass email multiple labels at once - Don't follow up more than once - Wait at least 2-3 weeks before following up - Keep sending demos to different labels - Continue releasing music independently
Red flags to avoid: - Sending unfinished tracks - Writing lengthy emails - Being overly casual - Claiming you'll be the next big thing - Sending the same email to multiple labels
If you get rejected: - Don't take it personally - Ask for feedback (but don't expect it) - Keep improving your production - Continue building your fanbase - Try submitting to other labels
Remember that many successful artists faced multiple rejections before getting signed. Focus on improving your craft and building genuine connections within the industry while maintaining a professional approach to submissions.
The most successful demo submissions often come from artists who have: - An established following - Professional sound quality - Clear artistic vision - Consistent release history - Strong social media presence
Keep track of your submissions in a spreadsheet including: - Label name - Submission date - Response received - Follow-up date - Notes for future reference
By following these guidelines and maintaining persistence, you'll maximize your chances of getting your demos heard by the right people at the right time. Remember, every successful artist started exactly where you are now.