Getting started in the music industry is one of the hardest things on the first of the earth. With the music having a huge choice of artist to pick from, what are you going to do to stand out amongst the rest of the crowd?

With the recession becoming more and more prevalent in today's society, use - to - be(s), are dusting off the  old band equipment. That;s right, you once favorite local 70''s high school band is making a come back. Is there still a chance for them to make it? I mean the sound has changed, the way of the industry is different, and the look of today's major recording artist is a liittle different (to say the least). However, if I were to tell you that there was still a chance, what would you say?

In order for you tounderstand exactly what I am talking about, I need to almost reprogram your way of thinking. "Making It", is no longer defined by having a recording contract with a major label anymore. I mean of course it is great to be signed to the label, you get the advancement, recording budget, instant exposure, major distribution, a countless number of professionals backing you, and so many other benefits. However, with enough hard work you can do this on your own.

So, when I say making it, I want you to think of an individual who has accomplished the making a great recording on a budget, who gains exposure (hometown hero), who gets some distribution (maybe no major), a self made artist.

So, for the sake of argument, lets call that 70's high school band that we were talking about earlier, Eddie's Prayer, and let's use them in our example. Eddie's Prayer (a group of middle aged man with a dream), all get their hours cut back at work. So, with there free time, they decide to start the band back up (with the wives disapproval). However, with so many already established bands, how are they going to make it. Of course the can write new songs that sound like everyone elses, and change their looks to look like the popular bands, but then they become wannabe(s). So what do they do?

What Eddie's Room needs to do is:
Pray - make sure that this is whaat God wants them to do.

Find A Sound - don't try to sound like everyone else, this just gets you lost in the rat race of the industry. Find a sound   that fits your band and that you are strong in. I can not stress enough how important it is for you not to go outside of your area of expertise. I know that having the big sound and the crazy leads is what everyone wants, but not everyone can do it justice. Don't be the band that everyone talks about...in a negative way.

Write Relevant Music - Of course you can't talk about having a teen crush, if you are a 70's band. Write music that has to deal with today, but on a level that "you" understand. Also, make sure that your music makes sense. i know that it is hard to agree with this (especially with today's top 40 music), but remember we are artist...not only trying to get rich quick. If you are just trying to get rich quick...this site is not for you.  (smile)

Practice, Practice, And More Practice - You as an artist/band can not practice enough. In the shower, in front of the mirror, in the car, together. Practice makes you more than perfect, practice takes you from being another just another singer, and turns you into a real artist.

Contact MainStage - MainStage MGP is not just for the established artist, we are for all artist. You as an artist have to start somewhere, and with a team of professionals on our team, why not start with the best. We are here not only to work for you, but with you, as you become an artist tht stands out in the industry.

Well, that is all you get for this issue, but check back soon for more info on how Eddie's Prayer (and your band) can "make it" in today's industry.

Vince Carr
President of MainStage MGP / CYHM Ministries