Why it Matters:
Owning your own publishing company means collecting 100% of your songwriter and publisher royalties, giving you full control over your music rights and more income from sync and performance licensing.

Step 1: Understand What Music Publishing

Why it Matters:
Vinyl is a growing niche with passionate fans. Pressing your music to vinyl can enhance your brand, offer unique merch, and open up retail opportunities—but it requires specific preparation.

Step 1: Choose the Right Songs &

Why it Matters:
A pre-save campaign boosts your visibility on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music by encouraging fans to save your music before it drops—triggering algorithms and increasing your chances of landing on playlists.

Step 1: Distribute Your

Why it Matters:
Your artist or band name is your brand. Trademarking it protects you from others using the same (or confusingly similar) name, and gives you exclusive rights to use it commercially.

Step 1: Make Sure the Name is

Why it Matters:
Getting your music placed in film, TV, ads, or games (a.k.a. sync licensing) can be a huge income stream and exposure booster—but your tracks must be properly prepared.

Step 1: Create Broadcast-Ready Recordings

Ensure your song is…

Why it Matters:
Social media algorithms change, but your email list is yours forever. It’s a direct, reliable way to update fans, sell music/merch, and promote shows without middlemen.

Step 1: Choose an Email Marketing Platform

Start with beginner-friendly tools…

Why it Matters:
Your artist bio is often the first thing promoters, journalists, and potential fans read. A strong, well-written bio can open doors to gigs, press coverage, and industry opportunities.
 

Step 1: Start with a Strong Opening Line

Summarize…

Why it Matters:
Music conferences and showcases (like SXSW, MIDEM, or The Great Escape) are powerful networking and exposure opportunities many artists overlook. Getting in requires planning and a solid application.
 

Step 1: Research the Right Conferences for Your Genre

• …

Why it Matters:
A well-planned music video can elevate your brand, attract new fans, and create valuable promotional content. Without preparation, you risk delays, extra costs, and a subpar final product.

Step 1: Define Your Vision & Budget

• Decide on…

Why it Matters:
Radio airplay can massively expand your audience and credibility as an artist. Knowing how to approach radio stations properly increases your chances of getting played.

Step 1: Identify the Right Stations

• Focus on independent, college, and genre-specific…

Why it Matters:
Merch is one of the best ways for artists to earn extra income and strengthen their brand. But to make it successful, you need to go beyond just slapping your logo on a t-shirt.

Step 1: Identify

Why it Matters:
Every time you perform your original songs live, you’re entitled to performance royalties from your Performing Rights Organization (PRO). If you’re not submitting your setlists, you’re leaving money on the table!
 

Step 1: Ensure You’re Registered with

Why it Matters:
Getting a last-minute gig can be a great opportunity, but without the right preparation, it can turn into a stressful experience. Here’s how to pull it off smoothly.

Step 1: Confirm the Key Details ASAP

• Venue name…

Why it Matters:
College radio stations are great for exposure, especially for independent artists looking to build a fanbase without major label backing.

Step 1: Research College Radio Stations

• Find stations that play your genre by searching online or using…

Why it Matters:
A well-prepared radio interview can boost your career by reaching new fans and making a lasting impression on industry professionals.

Step 1: Research the Station & Host

• Listen to previous interviews to understand the show’s style.
• Know…

Why it Matters:
If you want to record and release a cover song, you must obtain the proper license to avoid copyright issues and ensure the original songwriter gets their royalties.

Step 1: Confirm the Song is Eligible for a

Why it Matters:
A well-crafted booking email can help you secure gigs at venues, festivals, and private events. A bad one? It’ll get ignored.

Step 1: Find the Right Contact

• Visit the venue’s website or social media to find the…

Why it Matters:
Building strong relationships in the music industry can open doors to collaborations, gigs, and career opportunities that talent alone can't achieve.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

• Identify what you want to achieve through networking:
  • Finding collaborators (producers…

Why it Matters:
Getting your music on Spotify playlists can significantly increase your streams, grow your fanbase, and boost your visibility in the industry.
 

Step 1: Distribute Your Music Properly

• Use a reputable music distributor (e.g., DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby)…

Why it Matters:
Copyrighting your music gives you legal protection against unauthorized use and ensures you receive proper credit and royalties for your work.

Step 1: Finalize Your Song

• Ensure the song is fully written and recorded (demo or studio…