That's it, you have your name, your universe and your legal structure. It's time to connect to the music world and create your own network of contacts. Because a successful label is a well-surrounded label! This step is almost as fun as choosing the name of your label, because it will allow you to discover tons of artists, producers, and passionate fans like you. Ready to dive in? Let's go!
🎉 3.1 – Start with the basics: musical events
So yes, you can technically start your label from your couch, but to build a real network, you're going to have to get out there and show yourself a little. Music events are your playground! Whether it's concerts, electro nights, open mics or even independent music festivals, this is where you're going to meet the people who matter.
Some tips to maximize these IRL moments:
- Prepare your pitch: It may sound professional, but having a clear presentation of your label really helps. Just a few sentences to explain your world and your goal, so that people quickly understand what you do.
- Ask questions: this is the best way to make friends in the industry. Ask other labels, artists and even technicians for advice and feedback. Curiosity shows that you are really involved. Don't be afraid to look like a beginner, it's better to be sincere than to pretend to know everything, understand everything.
- Collect contacts: write down the names, numbers or Instas of the people you meet. And if you want to play it old-school, having a few basic business cards can really make a difference! On the other hand, having a stock of CDs or demos to distribute is a waste of time and money. A real quality human contact is much stronger than having given a physical object.
Never forget to follow up with someone you met at an event, no matter what the reason. Maintaining contact is just as important as making contact itself.
📱 3.2 – Social media: your survival kit in the music industry
Welcome to the world of likes and DMs! Social media is like the magic key to expanding your network while staying at home. If you haven't already, create a page for your label on the platforms that resonate best with your audience: Instagram, Twitter (X) and TikTok are essential to promote your label and connect with artists.
Some tips to become a networking pro:
• Tell your story: regularly publish updates on your label, your musical favorites, the behind the scenes of your world. The more authentic you are, the more you attract people who share your vibes.- Engage with others: Follow artists, producers, and fans of your style. Like, comment, share! The more you interact, the more visible you are, and the more you create strong connections.
- DMs, no pressure: send messages to artists or producers that you find interesting for your label. No need to make a big deal out of it, just a cool little message to tell them that you like their work, and why not to propose a collaboration.
🖥️ 3.3 – Professional platforms to find partners and artists
To meet other pros in the industry, there are a few online tools that can really help you. We're talking about platforms like LinkedIn (yes, even for a cool label, LinkedIn can be super useful!), SoundCloud, and Bandcamp to listen and scout talent, or Music Gateway to find pros (publicists, sound engineers, etc.).
- SoundCloud and Bandcamp: These are gold mines to spot artists you could sign, or with whom you could collaborate. Listen, like, and don't hesitate to contact the artists if their style matches your label.
- LinkedIn: ok, it seems serious, but it can really help you for more "business" contacts. To chat with distributors, music marketing people or even media, it can be a real resource.
- Facebook and Discord groups: There are groups dedicated to producers, beatmakers, DJs, etc. Join these communities, share information about your label, and who knows, you might just stumble upon the future artist of your dreams!
🧑🧑🧒🧒 3.4 – Building a collective around your label: the power of the team
If you really want to shake up your network, why not start your own collective? A collective is a bit like a musical family: you invite people you get along with and who share your world. The collective allows you to organize events, share resources (studio, equipment, etc.), and above all, make yourself known quickly.
Starting a collective can be as simple as sending a message to a few artist friends or people you respect in the industry. It also allows you to have a team that supports your vision and can help you promote the label in return.
🎶 3.5 – Organize small events to boost your network
If you're feeling hot, hosting small events is one of the best ways to make connections! Whether it's a showcase, a private listening party, or even a DJ set, it's a chance to get your music heard, introduce your artists, and meet pros in a relaxed atmosphere.
Some event ideas:
- “Listening Parties”: a small evening where you present your label’s releases. Simple, effective, and perfect for a first contact with other music players.
- Showcases: You invite a few artists to perform, you take photos and videos for social media, and you have a good time with your team.
- Online events: if you have a somewhat remote audience, consider live events on Instagram or YouTube. They're great for reaching as many people as possible without the constraints of IRL organization.
🔑 3.6 – Maintain your network: follow-up is key!
Once you’ve met people, keep your network alive. Send little messages from time to time, share news from your label, or tag people in your stories when it’s relevant. Show that you’re there, that you’re involved, and that you really appreciate their projects.
The secret? Be sincere and show interest in others. Music is above all a shared passion, and relationships are built on this basis.