Music Capitalists 2.0

Ever heard the term, Venture Capitalists? 

For many music industry folk (musicians included) a venture capitalist and his/her procedures have nothing to do with the music business – so why do I even mention it?

Venture Capitalists (VCs) invest money and resources in start-up, emerging, and high growth companies (or ventures), with the anticipation that they will get paid back (ROI – Return on Investment) + compounded interest (5X – 10X their investment) in a 3-7 year period of time.

How are Record Labels, Music Publishers, Managers, Agents, and other pros any different than a Venture Capitalist when it comes to finding, investing in, and partnering with you?

THEY’RE NOT DIFFERENT.

So, what does this mean to the aspiring (or established) musical act who wants to get noticed, signed, booked or promoted?

It means – start viewing your music / brand as a start-up company, and you’ll start to see what I mean – and get closer to success.

VC’s and Music Industry Professionals look for the following in the next act:

1. Differentiation (How unique is the act?)
2. Market Size (How large is their fan following? Where?)
3. ROI (Does this act, or can this act produce a return on my investment?)
4. Musical quality (Is their product demanded for today’s market?)
5. Payback Period (How long would it take to get paid back?)

Answer these questions – or start focusing on achieving strong results for these, and you will win.

Reagan

Founder

WorldMusicLink.com

Connecting the Music Industry

Be Heard By The Music Industry

What exactly are Music Industry Professionals looking for in the next music act they financially back, book & sign?

1. Fan Following (Established Market Size)
2. Marketability  (Music / Brand / Look / Relevant Appeal)
3. Professionalism

Are you surprised? Most musicians and bands I talk to think its all about the Music. Well, unfortunately that’s not the only thing that’s critical in the decision-making process between Industry Professionals (Agents, Managers, Record Labels, Venues, etc.) and Music Talent.

So, how do you increase your odds of success at getting and keeping the attention of the other side of the music business?

Focus on building your local and regional fan base. Pick a market, stick to it, and become the most well-known (and demanded) act in that region.

Ask ten people at your show and ten people (who have never seen you before) if your act’s overall look / theme is relevant, “cool” and in-demand for today’s market. If you’re the “nth” rock band in your town, forget about it. Try mixing things up and picking a unique look that stands out, but still let’s your music resonate across the area code.

Professionalism means handling all marketing, communication, business deals, and fan interaction with a professional, business mindset. Treat your music like its a business, and you’ll end up winning everytime.

Reagan

Founder

WorldMusicLink.com

Connecting the Music Industry