Becoming an independent music artist can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Here are a few steps you can take to start your career:
Develop your skills: Continuously practice and improve your singing, songwriting, and instrument-playing skills.
Build a fanbase: Start by playing at local venues, and use social media to connect with fans and promote your music.
Create a professional image: Develop a visual aesthetic for yourself and your music, including a logo and album art.
Record and release your music: Record and release your music independently through online platforms such as Bandcamp, Soundcloud, and YouTube.
Network and collaborate: Attend music industry events and make connections with other artists, managers, and industry professionals.
Be consistent: Keep making and releasing music, and keep promoting it.
We have enjoyed some success as indie production partners with just mediaworks/Civil|Theory. We were tasked with making a catalog for the company to moderate use in media/film projects. It's the longer, slower road to success, but we don't want to be superstars - we just like making music together. Our creative director gives us an idea, and we expand upon that musically. And since 2014, it's been working with a moderate amount of success. Eventually, the money will come, and we can wait.
It's important to note that becoming a successful independent artist takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and persistence. But with the right combination of talent, effort, and luck, it is possible to make a living as an independent musician. Nobody wants to be stuck with a bad deal. Find a way to own your masters and sell directly to the public, and you will be glad you stuck it out!