MusicKing

I would like to know how exactly independent artists stand to loose against the big companies? Even if we don't like the state of the industry, the fact that the industry exists in the first place is pretty much owed to the big companies. Before the companies came in, no one was even thinking about selling recordings. On the other hand, yes people would rather buy what they see on TV and hear on Radio. Do you think they would rather buy your music if the was no mainstream media? Nobody holds a gun to anyone in a CD store. You cannot say music is shoved down anyone's throat. People buy whatever they believe in, as Smueske said. If musicians want to make money from their music, they need to educate themselves on how to do it. Complaining about record labels will not help anyone. A quick question to Smueske; How did you arrive at the 1% figure?

As Finn said, you need to define your target audience. If this is your first release, my question to you would be ; " Are there people ready to buy your album" If not, you may end up very frustrated trying to promote your CD. In my experience, it is really important for you to know your fans very well, possibly even before you go into the studio. Why? Because you might create recordings they might not be interested in. If you have money - record 3-4 good songs and use them to build a fan base. After you see what their response is go in and do the album. Honestly, one post will not be enough to tell you all you need to do. Educate yourself as much as you can on music business and promotion. There is no way you can avoid it if you really want to succeed. All the best!

Getting your CD on iTunes and CD Baby is one thing. Selling copies is another. Getting a team of people who know what they are doing will make life easier for you. However, it will be very difficult to get them if you don't already have any significant achievements. And I'm not talking about how good your music is. I'm talking about how much you can prove that money can be made from your music. You need to seriously educate yourself on the music business. You should also learn how to promote your music on the internet. Many artists do it and make profit but you need to put in time and effort.

Personally, I'm a huge fan of internet promotion. As said in the above posts, build your mailing list. It sounds like you already have a lot going for yourselves , have you tried to attract any media? Obviously, you need to go to the next level. Take some risks , start contacting papers, look for better known bands that will let you open. You also need to set some specific goals. I'm not clear whether you are looking for a record deal or just want to sell your CD, or whatever else it is you want.