Most recording artists and bands want to get signed to a
major record label and make it big in the industry. Most artists believe that
getting signed to a major or independent record label is the “only” way to make
it in the industry. What most recording artists and bands don’t realize is that
being an independent artist can be just as beneficial as getting signed to a
major or independent label. In some cases it can be better than getting signed
to one of the big majors.
Most recently there has been an independent recording artist
who has said that not being on a record label helped him succeed. Recording
artist Macklemore explains that his success is a testament to how independent
recording artist can make it big in the industry. He has currently sold over 4
million copies of his song “Thrift Shop” with views on YouTube reaching over
200 million. In an interview with Chris Hardwick on the Nerdist podcast
Macklemore explains his logic of remaining independent. He states that the
success of the song “Thrift Shop” is an example of how the music industry is
changing. He stated that it gives off
the notion of a do-it-yourself attitude behind the music.
Macklemore also explains that there is no need for a record
deal at this point in the game for him and Ryan Lewis. He stated that with the
power of the Internet and the real personal relationship that you can have via
social media, there is no need to get a label involved. He states that people
complain about how MTV doesn’t play videos no more and how YouTube is totally
the new way to view new music videos. He states that record labels go and spend
millions of dollars on branding an artist and they have no idea what they are
doing. The thing that sets Macklemore apart from the rest is his ability to
figure out his target market and identify who is going to be receptive to their
kind of music.
It is important to remain true to your craft and figure out
what your target market is. Don’t waste energy on trying to get the labels to
pay attention. Target your fans and have them pay attention to you!
