subject: Breaking a Hit Record [print this page] The term phonograph record is used for any musical composition composed and sold on cassette, vinyl, CD, etc. Breaking a record means releasing it to the public for promotions & resale.
phonograph record (Noun1) - sound recording consisting of a disk with a continuous groove; used to reproduce music by rotating while a phonograph needle tracks in the groove disc, phonograph recording, platter, record, disk acetate disk, phonograph recording disk - a disk coated with cellulose acetate
L-P, LP - a long-playing phonograph record; designed to be played at 33.3 rpm
78, seventy-eight - a shellac based phonograph record that played at 78 revolutions per minute
audio recording, sound recording, audio - a recording of acoustic signals
The biggest problem amongst unsigned acts and Indies labels are, everyone wants to expand there territory into areas they may not be ready for. What I mean by that is, for example; to break a record on a national level, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $ 25,000 per month minimum, just for marketing & promotions. Which can include street team promotions, magazine ads, public relations, in store promotions, ads in distributor's catalogues, etc?
I always suggest unsigned acts and Indies labels start in your own home town and around your state first. Build a strong buzz, and then get to know record store owners (the few that are open now), radio station DJs, booking agents & club owners, etc.
These are the gatekeepers. They will make you or break you. If your trying to go major, or stay indie. These people should be in your phone and email contact list. If they know that you're serious, then they will work with you.
You have to overstand how to invest in yourself. Start with a small investment. Like purchasing a Domain name for your website, an electronic press kit (epk), flyers, etc. Do not limit yourself when it comes to promoting your music. And when you perform, you should sell and promote merchandise for your brand.
Get to know DJs. Most DJs are promoters. Don't just think most DJs just love spinning records. A lot of them make a living doing promotions and consulting. Get to know your Local DJs.
Breaking a record takes time and a lot of effort. You have to put yourself out there so people can see you. Take a step beyond just passing out flyers, and going to open mics, and myspace. Use all tools available to you.
A press kit (physical) or epk (digital) electronic press kit is a tool use for publicity, gigs, etc. A press kit (physical) was good in the old days of music. Today's music business has gone digital, and its very inexpensive to purchase a epk (electronic press kit), and you can include photos, music, bio, videos, etc. (Click here to get your epk)
A Record pools and a digital record pools are one of the best way's to get your music out to DJs (gatekeepers) and in clubs. These DJs in this record pool can be in radio, spinning at clubs, Mix CDs, Producers, etc. They all meet at record pool parties, meetings, and showcases, held by the record pool director.
If you're serious, as I stated before, start local, it is more manageable, and you have plenty of room to grow outward with your music and brand.
It is not a sin to stay local. Staying gives you the opportunity to grow outwardly and have control of your brand. All while creating a fan base database of contacts. Until the next time. Hotep!
