Independent Or Major Label? Which One Is Best For You? Pt I

It's a brand new year and you're ready to grab the attention of a record label and skyrocket your music career to platinum status. You've been working really hard and you've now put together your cover letter, demo CD, bio and an 8x10 photo of yourself in an attractive package. But which record labels should you send your package to?

There are a lot of options and a lot of labels. It's important that you decide what's important to you as an artist before you submit your package to labels. The priorities and goals that you establish for yourself will shape your decision in choosing to go after a deal with a major label or an independent label. Let me explain why

Getting the attention you deserve

As a new artist, it may be important to you to have someone hold your hand through the process to help you get acclimated in the industry. If this is a priority for you, a major label may not be the best way to go. Major labels often have so many artists that not only is it unlikely that you'll get personalized attention, but your project may get pushed to the back burner to focus on more established artists on the label. Independent labels often have smaller artist rosters, which means you get more attention and are less likely to be overshadowed by a more established act.

Distributing your music

If it's always been your dream to buy a copy of your first album at the Virgin Megastore on Sunset Boulevard or in Times Square, then you probably don't want to sign with an indie label. Major labels are more likely to get your music in major stores across the country, which can potentially mean more record sales if marketed properly. Independent labels however have a much smaller sphere of influence when it comes to distribution. Your music will probably end up in smaller stores, scattered throughout the country, or be sold predominantly online.

Royalties

Independent labels are often more flexible, and generous when it comes to royalties. Choosing to sign with an indie label can mean the difference between getting 50% of your royalties as opposed to 10-15%. At a major label, new artists don't have much leverage to negotiate these figures, as generally only 10% of new artists actually generate a profit on a major label. On the flipside, while an independent label may give you a higher percentage of royalties, they also tend to give away a lot of music as a marketing strategy - and as the artist you will not get royalties on these copies.

It may sound like a tricky business, but give it some thought and I'm sure you'll figure out which type of record label best fits your goals and priorities. Stay tuned for tomorrow's blog, when I discuss a few more of the pros and cons of both independent and major record labels. In the meantime, check out some of the record labels we have listed in the Talent Resources section of our site and look at the casting calls we have posted for singers, musicians, & bands at www.EliteCastingNetwork.com.

How To Write A Cover Letter

One of the biggest challenges you will face as an actor, model, singer or dancer when trying to break into the entertainment industry is finding a way to stand out and distinguish yourself from all of the other people that have found themselves on the same path. The industry can be extremely competitive, so you should always strive to position yourself as unique and different. If that sounds like it might be tough, remember that you are a dynamic, one-of-a-kind talent! And that you just have to get agents, casting directors and other influential people in the industry to recognize it too.

One of the ways to help separate yourself from other aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models when you’re trying to land an agent is by writing a really great cover letter. Use this opportunity to sell yourself. What are your strengths? Do you have great training, or lots of experience? Do you have a really great work ethic? Do you have more than one talent?

Use your cover letter as a chance to highlight what you have to offer. If you’ve got a great sense of humor, use it in your cover letter. Got a sparkling personality? Make sure it shines through. You only get one shot to hook a potential agent, make sure that you take full advantage of it and dazzle them.

You should also be sure to:

• Include all of your contact information, including your cell phone number and your email address
• Address each letter to the specific agency and contact that you’re submitting to
• Feel free to be cute and clever, but keep it concise
• Include any recent and significant gigs you’ve booked
• Make sure you spell check and use proper grammar and formatting
• Have friends or other people in the industry read your letter and offer feedback before you begin submitting your package

Sometimes it helps to see examples. If you’re looking for a sample letter that has worked for others, post a request on the bulletin board on our website. Most of the members are very helpful and can offer really great tips and personal experience.

Once you write your cover letter, be sure to check out the hundreds of agents we have listed on the site when you’re ready to send it.