Submission Services 101: The New Frontier for Independent Artists
So, are you ready to step into the spotlight? Submission services can help with that. These platforms are changing the game for independent artists like you, offering a direct route to music curators.
1. Understanding the Landscape
Understanding the submission service landscape is crucial. These platforms are not just about getting your music out there; they’re about targeting the right ears. Each platform has its niche and understanding this can help you strategise where to invest your time and resources. The key is to identify which platforms cater to your genre and audience.
2. Choosing the Right Platform
Playlist Push: If your goal is to get on Spotify playlists, this could work for you. Research the types of playlists that align with your music and tailor your submissions to match their vibe.
Groover: This platform emphasises feedback, making it a learning tool as well as a promotional one. Take each piece of feedback seriously and use it to refine your future submissions.
SubmitHub: Ideal for quick feedback and potential blog features. When using SubmitHub, focus on curators who have a history of appreciating your music genre. Also, consider the premium option for a higher chance of being heard.
Musosoup: Think of it as a one-stop, Pay-As-You-Go PR shop. Once you submit your music, your track gets listed for 3 weeks, and curators approach you. Musosoup is about building long-term relationships and getting guaranteed exposure rather than receiving feedback.
3. Crafting a Standout Submission
To make your submission stand out, you need to focus on several key elements:
Personalisation: Research the curator's previous selections and tailor your pitch to show why your track would be a good fit.
Clarity and Brevity: Your pitch should be concise but powerful. Clearly state your unique selling points and what sets your music apart.
High-Quality Production: Your music should be professionally recorded and mixed. This shows curators that you’re serious about your art.
4. Dealing with Feedback
Receiving and processing feedback is a crucial part of your growth. If the feedback is constructive, use it to improve your music or marketing strategy. Remember, every piece of feedback is a step towards understanding your audience better. Also, remember to take any negative feedback with a pinch of salt; often the curator will be judging your track on the first few seconds (or as many as required to trigger a payment from the submissions platform) and can therefore be less than helpful.
5. Balancing Expectations
Set realistic goals. Understand that not every submission will lead to a big feature piece or a spot on a popular playlist, but each one is an opportunity to learn and refine your approach. Hopefully you’re in this for the long haul, and aren’t aspiring to be a one-hit-wonder!
6. Networking and Relationship Building
Building relationships is key. Engage with curators beyond your submissions. Follow them on social media, engage with their content, and show genuine interest in their work. This builds rapport and could make them more inclined to support your music.
7. Continuously Evolving
Stay updated with trends in the music industry and on these platforms – their features and functions are changing all the time. Attend webinars, join online communities, and constantly seek ways to improve your craft and your marketing strategies.
Conclusion
Mastering submission services is about more than just submitting your music and hoping for the best; it’s about understanding the landscape, crafting compelling pitches, embracing feedback, and building relationships. With determination and a strategic approach, these platforms can be a powerful tool in your independent music career.