Hans Erik

Below is a list of steps that I have compiled together from some of my closes friends in and around the music industry. All of them make a living strictly off of the music. So play close attention to these Ten steps. It could actually make your career.

1. Make a list of Goals

Create a Goal List – What is it that you yearn for and how do you plan to get it? Write it down from ending to beginning. For example, if you want to record 2 songs in a week. Write down what it is you have to do to record 2 songs in a week. Break it down from when your going to start, to when your going to end. What are the things you need to do and how long will it take? Set reasonable goals and break your Plan into phases: 3 months – 6 months and so on. And STICK TO THE SCRIPT.

2. Keep It Real

Do your research – Get honest opinions – Identify your market. Start small, you don’t have to take over the world in one day…as a matter of fact, its impossible. For example when I first started rapping and had mixtapes to pass out I had a goal to get my name out by passing inserts of my mixtape out all throughout the 3 highschools in my area. It worked like a charm. The point is don’t try to take over a large area at one time. Especially if its your first time. Recognize that you’re going to have to do shows, most of the time for free, atleast until you build a following. Remember it still is a business and money matters. Know when to ask for help. Respect the possibility that you may not become a star or get on MTV, but that you can make a living making music.

3. Have A Blast

If it’s not fun anymore – don’t do it. You matter as well throw in the towel right now. Because as I said many times over and over again, DO NOT do this strictly for monetary reasons. You absolutely must love the music more or you will quit as soon as the going gets tuff. Reward yourself (and your team) each time possible. Acknowledge a job well done. Catch a break – take pleasure in life – then, get back to work.

4. Believe In You

You must believe in yourself. If you don’t then how can you expect anybody else to? That’s what it boils down to. Realize that you don’t need a label to be a success. Show that swagger that can’t nobody mess with you. Be confident but not to confident. You don’t want everybody saying bad things about you behind your back. Don’t be egotistical, but be confident. Trust that inner gut that tells you, you are good enough and can get what you want. If you don’t have faith in yourself – no one else will.

5. Become Accustomed & Adjust

Evaluate results: What works for you– What doesn’t? I had to learn pretty quickly what I was going to accept and what I wasn’t going to accept. In this business they will eat you a live if you let them. And it is very easy to get side tracked. Modify your plan and fine-tune your approach accordingly. Find ways to amplify your fan base and make a profit. What can be done better? Learn quick and you will succeed faster.

6.Market And Promote Yourself

Think imaginatively. There are so many places for you to go to find ways to promote yourself. Posters, cards, and flyers are all ways to promote yourself. Just passing out a flyer is a great way to get your name out there. Make personal appearances. Set up cross-promotions with radio-stations, sponsors, venues, and retail stores. Offer promotional contests. Play Special Events. Work your mailing list and keep in touch with your fans at least once a month. Make sure you have enough products to sell – both CDs and merchandise.

7. Know your budget

If you’re serious about a career, you’re going to have to invest in yourself. And that means putting money into your album, posters, flyers and other merchandise. To figure out your budget simply temize your expenses and add 20%. Then you will have elbow room to not over budget. Approach Sponsors with a detailed plan, this will let them know your serious about your business and is a great opinion to want from somebody giving you money or merchandise. Negotiate deals that take care of the basics: travel, food, lodging, backline, etc… And, don’t forget to factor in manufacturing and promotional costs. And its always good to look for the cheapest price as possible. But If you must choose quantity or quality, I would say always pick quality.

8. Take Care Of Business

Remember as I said before – it is the music “business.” Network as to a great extent as possible; arrange a squad, with each person in charge for a specific area. If you’re solo, handle your time wisely. Get your own Bar Code. Seek professional advice to set up your business entities. Pay attention to licenses and tax implications. When you tour, get insurance. Keep your business tight at all times. It really makes a difference when its all said and done.

9. Keep The Faith

No matter how hard you work, there will be testing times. Maintain the faith and don’t let it prevent you from chasing your dreams and deepest desires. Every person experiences setbacks. Those that keep at it will prevail. And those who give up shall fail. Its already written.

10. Keep Good Books

Keep books that show income and expenses. Accurately account for sales. Register and report to SoundScan. Maintain tax records. Keep updating your mailing list. If you don’t know how to keep good books, find a good CPA who does.

Thanks for the taking the time to read the Ten Steps To Your Success. We hope these steps point you in the right direction and may you succeed in all that you do.

Best of Luck

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