On a daily basis I experience young managers and artists whose intentions, passions and commitment are in the right place but the delivery is so wrong. In this day in age a large perception of the Millennials is that they come from a mindset of entitlement. As an artist, it is important that you check yourself or your rep and consider the vibe and tone of you or your novice representative when approaching industry experts. Pro A&R execs and experts in the business have “been there and done that”. They have earned their respect through years of experiences. They have survived the battlefield and made a living in the music industry. You may only get one shot at their attention so how you deliver your first engagement will decide if you get blocked or considered for further discussion regardless of how “AHMAAZING” you or your artist is. No seasoned exec is going to take on a project (paid or not paid) if they have to deal with a novice who thinks they’ve already arrived – which is the perception taken when you deliver with arrogance and false sense of confidence.
I can vouch through first hand experience of the solicitations I receive. It’s a real turn off when an artist or their novice rep come to me telling me they are or have the next big hit right out the gate or taunting sarcastically “I wonder who will get it” like they know something an expert doesn’t. Says who? Based on what experience? Based on what credibility? You probably haven’t even sold a paperclip yet in the music business. If an A&R exec or credible music professional gives you the time of day – you should be nothing but gracious. You are only one in hundreds or thousands of solicitations a week. If you haven’t figured it out yet, this is one of the most relationship oriented industries out there. It is based on who you know, what your credibility is and your cosigns. You may only get that ONE SHOT. Alienate yourself and it is over. It can end an artist’s career before it even started.
The wise approach is to befriend and look to the professionals for mentoring if you can find it or get it. Be gracious. Build a relationship. Come from a humble place asking for their advice or how you can enlist their services. If they like you and or your artist, they may even cut you a break from time to time on their services because you display fortitude and intelligence. I will repeat it again. The music business is a business like any other business. These are professionals who get paid for their work. Time is money. They aren’t looking for their break like you are. They have already had their break and hold value in their expertise. That is why they hold invested value for their experience and wisdom in the industry. Seasoned pros aren’t going to waste their time on cocky posers and hype artists.
Want expert coaching on your presentation or advice on how to build better relationships in the music industry? Check out my services at www.anrgirl.com.
“Get It Right The First Time” – Billy Joel from the album “The Stranger”
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