A music demo (which is short for demonstration), it is a sample recording of your music. It includes either a song or a group of songs, which are usually for reference use when promoting your music. In other words, they’re not meant to be an entire album. The purpose of this is to reach potential companies (record labels or platforms) or producers and show them what you’re capable of. And, thus, to get a deal. The format of the music demo can be more traditional, such as CDs, or, in more current times, audio files.
The Music Demo: General Information
Musicians generally produce demos to inform others that they’ve created a new piece. They are vital whenever the artists are actively engaging in their research for agents or managers. The reason is that a demo picks the interests of those circles and creates a buzz. This first-approach should include a taste of your music, so a couple of your best songs will suffice. (Do not attempt to include more than four.)
Please note that labels expect demos to contain finished versions of your songs. That is, songs that are ready for the public even if they have not been released yet. In short: you must leave your early drafts for yourself, but make sure that those finished songs are still on the working-stages. Here’s why:
Demos Are Not Final Albums
Even if the demo is supposed to include finished songs, it doesn’t mean that it is a final album. Labels do expect this material to be perfect; quite the contrary: it’s meant to be rough (which doesn’t mean of bad quality). Do not—we repeat, do not—go head over heels on the initial investment for its production. Undoubtedly, it’s not advisable to go directly to a recording studio for your demo. Not only because you must save that money for later (and, believe us, you will need it), but also because record labels frown upon it. If you have a rough demo, which is what’s expected, then you’re communicating that you’re willing to work with the company in later versions of your work.
Music Demo: the Key is Always the Research
You’ve already noted a pattern here, right? If you’re aiming to be successful in the music industry, you’ll need a ton of research. In regards to the music demo, make sure to enquire everything worth knowing about the company you’re pursuing. Just as an example, research will save you from getting a demo for a label that doesn’t need one! (On this note, know that there are plenty of web-based platforms that will let you show your music without the need to catch a label.)
Never send out a demo blindly. Research will be your ally: find out the specifications of the labels you’re targeting. It is very likely that each one will have a particular set of rules you must follow. In the worst case scenario, you can get into legal trouble if the company receives an unsolicited demo. Watch out!
