Sending your music to record labels is a crucial step in advancing your music career. I'll guide you through the essential steps to maximize your chances of getting noticed.

First, ensure your music is professionally produced and mixed. Labels receive countless demos daily, so your tracks need to stand out with pristine audio quality and polished production.

Before submitting your music, research labels thoroughly. Find ones that:

- Release music in your genre
- Work with artists at your career level
- Have a track record of successful releases
- Accept demo submissions

Create a professional demo package that includes:

- 2-3 of your best tracks (WAV format)
- A brief artist bio (150-200 words)
- Professional press photos
- Links to your social media profiles
- Streaming links to your existing music
- Contact information

Follow the label's submission guidelines exactly. Most labels specify their preferred:

- File formats
- Submission methods (email, online form, etc.)
- Additional requirements

When writing your submission email:

- Use a clear subject line (e.g., "Demo Submission - [Artist Name] - [Genre]")
- Keep the message brief and professional
- Mention why you chose their label specifically
- Include streaming links (SoundCloud, Spotify)
- Add a download link for your tracks (WeTransfer, Google Drive)

Common mistakes to avoid:

- Mass emailing multiple labels simultaneously
- Sending unfinished tracks
- Writing long, unfocused emails
- Attaching large files directly to emails
- Following up too frequently

After submitting, wait at least 2-4 weeks before following up. Many labels receive hundreds of demos weekly, so patience is essential. If you don't hear back, continue creating music and try other labels that match your style.

Remember to maintain a professional attitude throughout the process. Build relationships within the industry, engage with the label's existing artists on social media, and attend industry events when possible.

Keep track of your submissions using a spreadsheet including:

- Label name
- Submission date
- Contact person
- Response received
- Follow-up dates

If a label shows interest, be prepared to:

- Provide more tracks
- Share your marketing plan
- Discuss your artistic vision
- Negotiate terms professionally

Most importantly, don't get discouraged by rejection. Keep improving your craft and building your fanbase independently while pursuing label opportunities.

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