As the saying goes, “Haste Makes Waste” and in music its no different. As musicians and artists we are passionate people and most likely eager to let the world know about our music. One of the problems with this is that we may find ourselves in a position where we are promoting our music wasting time and money before its really ready for the public. And as we all know, “first impressions are everything” so once someone has heard our music they typically will judge it as such for the life of the artist unless there is some major marketing money thrown down to correct the poor perception and the fan is somehow convinced otherwise.
Instead of shooting yourself in the foot by recording your masterpiece and just putting it out to the world, think about getting feedback. Not just from your family or inner circle, but from professionals who know more than you. Try other musicians or producers or even strangers who work at music stores. Simply approach them with honesty and say something to the effect of: “Hi I was hoping you could help me. I need a professional opinion of my music… and I don’t want watered down stuff, please give it to me straight because I want to be the best.” They’ll be flattered because you called them a professional and most would be happy to do it. If they say no ask another musician and make sure above all else you get at least 5-10 feedback versions from different people.
This honest feedback is the ONLY way people get better. If you’re living in your own little world and then all of a sudden its time to promote your music and no one cares and no one shares it, then chances are you never got the right feedback. Not only will people stop buying from you but unless you’re paying money, people will stop working with you because most people are simply judgemental and unforgiving. Believe me, I made this mistake by not getting feedback on my vocals in my first album and next thing I knew I had a band member just up and leave.
Don’t Blow Your Money
One other thing to consider before you blow a ton of cash on Mixing and Mastering is to record demos of your music then get feedback. Once you get feedback, go back and revise it until it’s sounding good without mixing and mastering. Then once you go get the final carmel coating on top (mixing and mastering) you’ll blow people away.
Best of luck and please feel free to comment below about your experience with feedback.
Chad – CEO Music Launch Pad