Why Bringing Your Demo to a Record Label Is a Bad Idea

Why Bringing Your Demo to a Record Label Is a Bad IdeaWhy Bringing Your Demo to a Record Label Is a Bad IdeaWhen youre eager to for the decision makers at a record label to listen to your demo, the idea of stopping by their schreibstube, CD in hand, is tempting. But is it ever a good idea? A resounding NO. Why Bringing Your Demo to a Record Label Is a Bad Idea In almost every instance, dropping by a record label office unannounced to give them your demo is going to backfire and heres why Its uncomfortable No one at the label wants to be subjected to listening to your demo in front of you, and they dont want to accept it from you in person either. Its not because of an uppity attitude nor is it a reflection on your music. Rather, everyone at the label understands how much your demo means to you, and the vast majority of the demos any label hears will be turned down. Giving the label the space to judge your demo on their own terms will work in your favor. Putting them on the spot w ill not. It might not be an office This one only applies to small, indie labels, but you might be surprised how many of your favorite music businesses are operating out of someones bedroom or garage. Turning up at someones house? Awkward. And a little scary...for both of youThe receptionist is ready for you On the other end of the spectrum, major labels have front desk receptionist who have dealt with people bearing demos thousands of times. Youre not getting past them. Plus, a vast majority of labels that have receptionists dont accept unsolicited demos. Youll be remembered for the wrong reasons It might seem like visiting a record label with your demo shows some spunk and go get em attitude. It may seem like a great way to make an impression. You might not be forgotten. And youre unlikely to be remembered fondly. Record Label Demo Policies Almost every record label has a demo policy clearly listed on their website- follow it to the letter. The demo policy isnt there to discour age you. It exists to establish an ?efficient method to deal with the demos that pour into even the smallest labels. The label wants to give your demo gets the chance it deserves, or alternatively, to save you from wasting your time approaching a label that cant be of help. Here youll also find acceptable demo formats (eg, CD, mp3 clips), their mailing address, the name of a specific demo (AR) rep to whom you should address your package, and the follow-up guidelines indicating whether its acceptable for you to call or email. Now, the caveat Every rule has exceptions. You may happen upon a label that invites drop-in visitors, and there undoubtedly a musician somewhere, who got a deal by bursting into a label office with a demo. However, your best bet with demos is to stick to the guidelines.