The urban music business is one of the fastest growing segments in the music industry. It is growing so fast that it is virtually impossible to stay up to date with it. As you sit there in front of your computer reading this, the powers that be are changing the industry right now. The only way that you are going to stay ahead of the game is to find a source that can keep you updated by the minute. I know you are thinking that is impossible! Well I’m here to tell you that it’s not, but before I get in to all of that let me share a few other things that you should know.

The day of the major labels running things are quickly coming to an end. The sad part is they know it, but to refuse to give in. I promise you that you will see here in the near future that some individual off of YouTube will get a record deal. The internet has leveled the playing field big time. If you want to be a successful independent artist you have to start playing the game right. You cannot simply create a product and upload it to your MySpace and expect to get rich. It simply doesn’t happen like that.

You have to beat the streets and take your music to the people. Start booking your own shows. Sign up for any open mic contest that you can in your area. I often hear artist say that they cannot find any place to perform. That’s nothing but a bunch of B.S. If you go to a local bar and they say that they do not allow live performances then ask them how much to rent the place out to throw a birthday part. All bar owners have slow periods and they will take any money that they can get their hands on.

Once you have a venue locked down, now you need to promote your show. This is where MySpace comes in handy. Post to your bulletin and all of the groups that fit your criteria and let them know that you have an up coming show. Make sure you ask them to RSVP, so that you can keep track of who is coming. I have seen people over sell their show and have it shut down by the local fire marshals. You will have a long line of people waiting for a refund, and will find yourself in the whole.

Ok enough of that for now. Let me give you a little resource that has paid off big time for me. I actually found a free resource that has up to the minute updates on what is going on in the urban music industry. The site is incredible, and is run by an extremely knowledgeable guy by the name of Tim Beachum. Feel free to drop him a line and tell him that Don sent you. Go check it out by visiting http://www.jackin4beats.com

Author Don Giavonnie your local music industry expert!

For more education on careers in the music industry, check out: www.Music-Career-Guide.com

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