I'm Going To Sell 1 Million Music Albums

Lett

16 years ago

Good luck, you will need it.

Thanks
1 reply

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butters

16 years ago

So, you are going to make a music album and then sell it? How many connections do you have in the music industry. Why set your self such a tough goal if you have never done it before? Have you planned it out and I mean seriously planned it out, thought about your target audience and what they actually want and so on?

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by butters

So, you are going to make a music album and then sell it? How many connections do you have in the music industry. Why set your self such a tough goal if you have never done it before? Have you planned it out and I mean seriously planned it out, thought about your target audience and what they actually want and so on?

Well, I don't have connections but I have experience in the music production field. I'll be utilizing a few old school music promotion techniques (such as promoting music through nightclubs) along with a few new techniques. My first goal is to make people aware of what i'm doing, then as I release songs from the album, promote them as much as I can online. If only one song connects with a large enough audience, then I'll have a decent shot at achieving my goal.

Thanks
2 replies

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butters

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Well, I don't have connections but I have experience in the music production field. I'll be utilizing a few old school music promotion techniques (such as promoting music through nightclubs) along with a few new techniques. My first goal is to make people aware of what i'm doing, then as I release songs from the album, promote them as much as I can online. If only one song connects with a large enough audience, then I'll have a decent shot at achieving my goal.

I am not trying to put a damper on you and I wish you all the best on your goal but what makes you different from the 10000's of people doing the exact same thing... Normally, unless it is a truely viral thing, the people who hit million records solds are people with huge record labels behind them. To go from nothing to a million in 1 year, without having a record label behind you is extremely hard if not ni impossible. Why not set your self a small goal and work up?

Thanks
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Tyler Pratt

16 years ago

Good luck to ya.
You may want to win American Idol, that will help in your efforts.

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David Hooper

16 years ago

I work in this business. Can tell you first hand that the way to move albums is by playing live, making a connection with the audience, and selling CDs/shirts/merch from a table at the side of the stage. Is this part of your strategy?

I have a music business radio show at Music Business Radio which you might find helpful. Lots of great interviews with people from all aspects of the music business.

Good luck!

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Lett 16 years ago

by the way - what kind of music it is? What genre/style?
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NickArnold

16 years ago

Do you have idea how much it will cost to press 1,000,000 CD's?

Even 250,000 if you were expecting to sell 750,000 downloads?

It's a huge loss if you pressed up all those CD's and only sold a few thousand....

Are you composing all your music from scratch or are you sampling? You're going to have to pay to get those cleared as well.

All things to consider.

I actually make music myself, just for fun though. So you've sparked my attention. Anywhere where we can hear your music? I mean a full song.... Because obviously the quality of that is the most important factor even before any marketing comes into play.

Thanks
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by NickArnold

Do you have idea how much it will cost to press 1,000,000 CD's?

Even 250,000 if you were expecting to sell 750,000 downloads?

It's a huge loss if you pressed up all those CD's and only sold a few thousand....

Are you composing all your music from scratch or are you sampling? You're going to have to pay to get those cleared as well.

All things to consider.

I actually make music myself, just for fun though. So you've sparked my attention. Anywhere where we can hear your music? I mean a full song.... Because obviously the quality of that is the most important factor even before any marketing comes into play.

Initially, I will not be pressing a single CD. The songs will be available for download via popular outlets such as iTunes and Amazon Music. When the demand is high, then i'll get into pressing cds for sale. Also, cd's are quite cheap to press. I'm sure if you do high volumes, you can get the cost down to about 25 cents (complete with case and printing). All the music is original so I won't need to worry about clearing samples.

Thanks

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Hardi Wijaya

16 years ago

Originally Posted by NickArnold

Do you have idea how much it will cost to press 1,000,000 CD's?

Even 250,000 if you were expecting to sell 750,000 downloads?

It's a huge loss if you pressed up all those CD's and only sold a few thousand....

Not necessarily. Time has changed.

New on demand tech enables you to press and sell 1 million CDs. A little twist on marketing enables you to shrink your cost into zero and still make money.

Hardi

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fredjr1978 16 years ago

I think this post already has some followers! You can count me in,...
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by David Hooper

I work in this business. Can tell you first hand that the way to move albums is by playing live, making a connection with the audience, and selling CDs/shirts/merch from a table at the side of the stage. Is this part of your strategy?

I have a music business radio show at Music Business Radio which you might find helpful. Lots of great interviews with people from all aspects of the music business.

Good luck!

Hi David, live shows will not be a factor initially. I'm catering to top 40 radio and club play for promotion. If I were in a band I would go more the live show route. I'll definately check out your website

Thanks

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by Tyler Pratt

Good luck to ya.
You may want to win American Idol, that will help in your efforts.

American Idol isn't an option since I'm 35
- Thanks
- 2 replies
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- Floyd Fisher 16 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme
  
  American Idol isn't an option since I'm 35
  
  Then you should try 'Brittains Got Talent'. I heard a 64 year old went in there and almost won it.
  
  Thanks
  
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- Scott Ames 16 years ago
  
  It's funny how when someone posts a goal that we personally think is impossible that we label the person as a dreamer or fool. A bunch of negative comments follow with reasons why it won't work.
  
  I know it's human nature. I am skeptical too about a lot of claims and plans.. but...
  
  What if he shoots for 1 million albums and only sells 50,000 ? That's better than shooting for 50,000 and selling 2,000. What if the music is totally brilliant and it sells 1.5 million? We are making judgments based on our own beliefs.
  
  How many totally wrote off Susan Boyle when they first saw her without ever hearing a note? Just sayin...
  
  [ 1 ] Thanks
  
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  Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm. -Winston Churchill
  
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mikeb209 16 years ago

I think it's attainable especially if you sell them online at social networking sites at prolly a buck each. I don't thik it'll be that hard if you're creative with it.

good luck
- Thanks
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Floyd Fisher

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Well, I don't have connections but I have experience in the music production field. I'll be utilizing a few old school music promotion techniques (such as promoting music through nightclubs) along with a few new techniques. My first goal is to make people aware of what i'm doing, then as I release songs from the album, promote them as much as I can online. If only one song connects with a large enough audience, then I'll have a decent shot at achieving my goal.

Not putting a damper on stuff, but being the producer is a lot different than being the artist.

How good are you as a musician?

Have you ever made your own songs from scratch (and got them used by another artist)?

Can you actually play anything besides a mixing board? Can you sing? Or do you know someone who can do either to make up for what you lack?

Well, good luck, and keep us posted. Even if you fail, just figure out where you went wrong and try again. Even the Rolling Stones lay an egg every so often.

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher

Not putting a damper on stuff, but being the producer is a lot different than being the artist.

How good are you as a musician?

Have you ever made your own songs from scratch (and got them used by another artist)?

Can you actually play anything besides a mixing board? Can you sing? Or do you know someone who can do either to make up for what you lack?

Well, good luck, and keep us posted. Even if you fail, just figure out where you went wrong and try again. Even the Rolling Stones lay an egg every so often.

Hi Floyd, I'm not a classicaly trained mucician, but I'm great at music programming for my needs. I play guitar which I took lessons in as a child and keyboards (by ear, self taught). I have a good voice for my songs. I had a recording studio previously so I'm experienced in all aspects of the recording process. At 10 years old I recorded my first song on a four track cassette recorder. I think I was destined to be in the music business, and I'm not sure why I gave up along the way. I'm really motivated and I think everything (failure and success) is culminating to this moment.

Thanks

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AdvS1

Banned 16 years ago

[DELETED]

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

thanks, I'll be back to update everyone. If anyone is on youtube, you can subscribe to my channel and see the daily progress there (you tube channel is sellyourmp3
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angel3aby

16 years ago

I think youtube and facebook marketing are your best options......I say go for it. The only one getting in your way is you!

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Imran Naseem

Banned 16 years ago

Good Luck with this. I have also a niche in the music industry and this is excellent idea..

You might want to get some Media coverage and get some press releases going.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Imran Naseem

Good Luck with this. I have also a niche in the music industry and this is excellent idea..

You might want to get some Media coverage and get some press releases going.

Yes, I'm definately looking in that direction. I want to make sure I have the right press release before I go forward.

Thanks

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petelta

16 years ago

I think 1 million sales in the next year is a bit unrealistic. I am all about setting your goals high, but you don't want to discourage yourself when you don't accomplish it. You're going to have to sell 3000 copies/day starting a now to reach that. And I'm assuming you haven't written it yet which I would assume could take some time.

Sorry to be such a downer, but I live in Nashville where 99% of the people here are failing musicians.

Good luck though. I hope you reach your goal. I have million dollar goals as well just not so soon.

Thanks
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by petelta

I think 1 million sales in the next year is a bit unrealistic. I am all about setting your goals high, but you don't want to discourage yourself when you don't accomplish it. You're going to have to sell 3000 copies/day starting a now to reach that. And I'm assuming you haven't written it yet which I would assume could take some time.

Sorry to be such a downer, but I live in Nashville where 99% of the people here are failing musicians.

Good luck though. I hope you reach your goal. I have million dollar goals as well just not so soon.

(for some reason the multiquote isn't working for me, so I'll reply to each post individually)

Basic plan so far is to write, record and mix the cd within the next 3 months. At the same time, I will be documenting everything and marketing as well. Once music is complete, I'll start the hardcore marketing which involves club promotion, along with other strategies.
(for some reason the multiquote isn't working for me, so I'll reply to each post individually)

Thanks

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monitorit

16 years ago

This will be difficult but as no one in my life believes my im dreams im not about to shatter yours all i can do is pray for you.

Good luck i mean it.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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TheWinner

16 years ago

Hey buddy,

Good luck mate!

Youtube, Facebook, Myspace will be huge for this.

I'm sure you have a plan in place, now just attack that plan like a man obsessed!

The more you focus on it, more ideas and plans will flash into your mind, and I'm sure you have the courage to put those into action immediately.

I ain't being funny, but some people saying it's unrealistic is a bit harsh. To them it may be unrealistic, to syntheticrhyme it may not be. Who knows what strategy he has and how he plans for this? His music may be top notch, and a big contact could change everything for him to reach that 1million sales. It's a huge goal for sure, massive goal, but huge unrealistic goals to the masses have been achieved in the past by those who set themselves the goal.

I'll be subscribing to your youtube channel.

I sincerely hope you achieve this goal mate, you go for it and be a winner!...Good Luck!

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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johnnnson

16 years ago

I just wanna say GOOD LUCK... Its hard to make a album but sell 1 million copies is harder. So you already gain one fan! And by the way where i can follow your path? Or you ain't gonna write anything about that?

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2 replies

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TheWinner

16 years ago

Oh yes...syntheticrhyme, here's a link I want to share with you.

I'm currently reading the 4 hour work week by tim ferris, and this article is by him, which is also in the book.

Have a look, and anyone who ever tells you that you have an unrealistic goal, you just ignore it totally and get on with achieving that goal.

Here's the link:

Why 'Unrealistic' Goals Are Easier to Achieve

Enjoy

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by TheWinner

Oh yes...syntheticrhyme, here's a link I want to share with you.

I'm currently reading the 4 hour work week by tim ferris, and this article is by him, which is also in the book.

Have a look, and anyone who ever tells you that you have an unrealistic goal, you just ignore it totally and get on with achieving that goal.

Here's the link:

Why 'Unrealistic' Goals Are Easier to Achieve

Enjoy

.
Fantastic article, i really enjoyed that. "Bigger Goals = Less Competition", these are words to live by

Thanks

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by johnnnson

I just wanna say GOOD LUCK... Its hard to make a album but sell 1 million copies is harder. So you already gain one fan! And by the way where i can follow your path? Or you ain't gonna write anything about that?

Thanks appreciate it. Since I have a low post count, I cannot seem to post my youtube link. My youtube channcel is sellyourmp3

my website is Sell1MillionRecords DOT COM

(if someone with a higher post count can embed my first you tube video here, that would be great

Thanks

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1960Texan

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Hi warriors, I just wanted to say that I've picked up many great marketing tips throughout the past years, and I've decided to apply them to my first passion in life, which is music. My new year's resolution is to completely write, record and mix my own music cd, and have it sell 1 million copies, all within one year's time. I will be documenting practically everything I do along the way. If there are any aspiring musicians out there, hopefully this can inspire you to do the same.

I did a video on youtube titled:
I'm Going To Sell 1 Million Records (Music Albums) - Watch Me Do It

Any ideas or extra tips from you marketing gurus are always welcome

Go for it!

Don't listen to any of the negatives comments, no matter who they come from. So many times in our lives we are told that we can't achieve our dreams, and we should set our sights lower, and more realistically. Often this misguided advice comes from well meaning individuals hoping to spare us from what they perceive to be certain disappointment. What shocks me is that there are so many negative comments on this thread. Why is the IM dream any more realistic that the dream of selling a million CDs? Why is any dream more realistic than another?

I wish I could remember the name of the person that gave me this advice, so that I could properly thank them:

"Can't never did nothin'!"

That phrase has been my personal mantra since I was a teenager, and as I prepare to enter my fiftieth year I can look back at my life and honestly say that so far, I have made every dream I've had come true. Some of them were easy to accomplish, and others took every thing I had, but they all happened.

Good luck, you can do it!

Will

[ 7 ] Thanks
2 replies

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petelta 16 years ago

Originally Posted by 1960Texan

Why is the IM dream any more realistic that the dream of selling a million CDs? Why is any dream more realistic than another?

If his original message said he was going to try and make 1 million sales from IM with any product then I would have the same reply.

I don't think anyone here has said its impossible. Just unlikely. He should focus on 1 sale before he decides he will make 1 million in 364 days.
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- Michael Taylor 16 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by petelta
  
  I don't think anyone here has said its impossible. Just unlikely.
  
  Of course it's unlikely. But it IS possible. And if he wears the wet blanket you guys are trying to give him, he certainly won't sell a million.
  
  Synth, you can do it.
  
  Now, I have no idea how many CDs this next guy has sold, but he's gotten several million video views. He's really quirky, he hasn't done anything on YouTube in over a year, but his enthusiasm is a delight to watch as he plays. One thing you may want to do is let YouTube viewers peek behind the scenes and even perform for them. For your inspiration, Ronald Jenkees...
  
  YouTube- Broadcast Yourself.
  
  (Savvy YouTube viewers may recognize the beginning of this piece...it's the outro music used by Philip DeFranco in his videos.)
  
  [ 1 ] Thanks
  
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by 1960Texan

Go for it!

Don't listen to any of the negatives comments, no matter who they come from. So many times in our lives we are told that we can't achieve our dreams, and we should set our sights lower, and more realistically. Often this misguided advice comes from well meaning individuals hoping to spare us from what they perceive to be certain disappointment. What shocks me is that there are so many negative comments on this thread. Why is the IM dream any more realistic that the dream of selling a million CDs? Why is any dream more realistic than another?

I wish I could remember the name of the person that gave me this advice, so that I could properly thank them:

"Can't never did nothin'!"

That phrase has been my personal mantra since I was a teenager, and as I prepare to enter my fiftieth year I can look back at my life and honestly say that so far, I have made every dream I've had come true. Some of them were easy to accomplish, and others took every thing I had, but they all happened.

Good luck, you can do it!

Will

Thanks Will for the kind words. Negativity never really bothers me. It just makes me want to work harder towards my goal.

Thanks

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Steve Powers

16 years ago

wow,it's really a great challenge.But still wish you good luck.Maybe you need two or three hotest songs to promote yourself.Sometimes,you know,luck and chance are also very important.Power doesn't always make sense.Good luck.

Thanks
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Karen Blundell 16 years ago

hey synth...ignore the dream-stealers and listen to 1960Texan...just go for it!

I wish you every success!
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- syntheticrhyme 16 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by Karen Blundell
  
  hey synth...ignore the dream-stealers and listen to 1960Texan...just go for it!
  
  I wish you every success!
  
  Thanks Karen, I appreciate it
  
  Thanks
  
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Steve Powers

wow,it's really a great challenge.But still wish you good luck.Maybe you need two or three hotest songs to promote yourself.Sometimes,you know,luck and chance are also very important.Power doesn't always make sense.Good luck.

thanks Steve. I'll be releasing single after single off the album until one connects on a big scale.

Thanks

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John Rogers

16 years ago

A million seller from an unknown without a label? You'd better make sure you have something extraordinary and newsworthy.

John

Thanks

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TheDebtEliminator

16 years ago

I wish you all the best

Try do do several press releases

Setup your own site and use YouTube to show you progress

Wen 2.0 should love your project

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Marhelper

16 years ago

Man, I can say, "I knew him when." Go for it dude! Do not let anyone rain on your parade. Never, never, never give up (unless you have no talent then it would be a total waste of time

)

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Marhelper

Man, I can say, "I knew him when." Go for it dude! Do not let anyone rain on your parade. Never, never, never give up (unless you have no talent then it would be a total waste of time

)

Thanks, I appreciate the motivation. As far as talent, my particular strength is melody, and I plan to use it to my advantage. Many songs on the radio are often overly complicated or just too bland. I'm planning to produce an album of up tempo, catchy and feel good songs (I'm influenced a lot by 80's music since I grew up in that time, and I want to bring an element back to todays music scene.

Thanks

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Mark Riddle

16 years ago

My First suggestion is to listen to David Hooper that gave comment in this thread. The next Step it to Follow Bob Baker (the Buzz Factor Indie Music Marketing Guy)

Air play and internet radio play will help in selling your music, but there are only a few people out there that are doing it correctly.

Currently in the music business selling the music is the least profitable of all income streams for musicians and groups.

Concert tours when done properly will bring in many more times income than music sales.

I work with literally hundreds of Independent singer songwriters, several that have topped the charts many times.

With planning and forethought, you can fairly easily plan the sales volume for a given recording solely based on audience reaction at performances.

While it is a great goal to sell a million "albums".

Just a hint only 25% of popular music total sales is physically CD's a reasonable modification of your goal will be a million albums not a million CD's.

There is quite a bit of science on song selection for your album as well as track order. This does make a difference in sales.

A bit of advice I can give you is remember that people don't buy songs, they don't by albums, they buy the emotion that the music produces so they can experience that feeling time and time again.

If you are looking solely at albums distributed as your goal, bulk sales is the best route (although lower profit) to achieve high dollar sales volume.

Why bother selling one at a time, when selling 5K to 10K at a time will help you achieve your goal.

Mark Riddle

KC Cafe Radio

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Ehanson

16 years ago

Are you going to sell 1 million albums? Yes, with the connections and marketing you will.

Are you going to do it by next year? Most likely not.

Focus on getting the music made and making it of the highest quality right now. Do not rush through the process, really takes some time (a couple of months at least) to plan, write and compose the music. (What genre of music do you make BTW?)

After you get your music made you need to get it on iTunes (usually through CD Baby or another music distribution site) and get a website for yourself as you are an independent artist. You need to get your name out there. Reset your goal to sell a couple hundred albums by next year. The internet is a great for independent artists because it levels the playing field but because of that anyone with a bit of talent can market their album or single, you really need to stand out from the thousands of other musicians.

Besides the usual marketing on YouTube and Myspace/ Facebook you should think about:

-Submiting demo to record labels (it may be better to have a label represent you as it's very hard to do everything yourself)
-Radio station interviews
-Local and eventually worldwide live performances (you can really sell a lot of albums when you have thousands of people lined up after the concert to by a DVD/ CD from the concert)
-PR releases
-Connections with those in the industry

The music business is difficult, even for those who are talented. Some people become one-hit-wonder's, millions of others unfortunately becoming struggling musicians. Artists who sold a million albums were able to do so because the had a huge fanbase and had achieved some level of fame by that time; this can take years.

It may be wiser and more profitable to try to sell you music to companies and advertisers who need it. The media always needs commercial music for promos and to market products, movies, TV shows, etc...

Don't make this into a musical version of The One Million Dollar Homepage, this is really about establishing a fan base that loves your music because it is that good. I'm going to quote Mark on this because what he said is important:
"... people don't buy songs, they don't by albums, they buy the emotion that the music produces so they can experience that feeling time and time again."

Finally, I'll also add read through Daniel E Taylor's threads in addition to the people Mark listed to see how other warriors carved out their own musical niche.

Ehanson

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feefondo

16 years ago

ok I'm a bit into music so all of these ideas and goals are fine but you gotta have good music to begin with. A killer good song with the right energy that connects with the masses. Otherwise it's a hobby. Go for it and best of luck!

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by feefondo

ok I'm a bit into music so all of these ideas and goals are fine but you gotta have good music to begin with. A killer good song with the right energy that connects with the masses. Otherwise it's a hobby. Go for it and best of luck!

So far, it's only been one week and very happy to have written my first track for this album. Today, I actually wrote an incredible chorus (previously i went through 3-4 variations which were ok, but not cutting it for a hit. I'm confident I have a hit song right now. I'll be hopefully completing it by Tuesday or Wednesday

Thanks

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Ehanson

Are you going to sell 1 million albums? Yes, with the connections and marketing you will.

Are you going to do it by next year? Most likely not.

Focus on getting the music made and making it of the highest quality right now. Do not rush through the process, really takes some time (a couple of months at least) to plan, write and compose the music. (What genre of music do you make BTW?)

After you get your music made you need to get it on iTunes (usually through CD Baby or another music distribution site) and get a website for yourself as you are an independent artist. You need to get your name out there. Reset your goal to sell a couple hundred albums by next year. The internet is a great for independent artists because it levels the playing field but because of that anyone with a bit of talent can market their album or single, you really need to stand out from the thousands of other musicians.

Besides the usual marketing on YouTube and Myspace/ Facebook you should think about:

-Submiting demo to record labels (it may be better to have a label represent you as it's very hard to do everything yourself)
-Radio station interviews
-Local and eventually worldwide live performances (you can really sell a lot of albums when you have thousands of people lined up after the concert to by a DVD/ CD from the concert)
-PR releases
-Connections with those in the industry

The music business is difficult, even for those who are talented. Some people become one-hit-wonder's, millions of others unfortunately becoming struggling musicians. Artists who sold a million albums were able to do so because the had a huge fanbase and had achieved some level of fame by that times; this usually takes years. It may be wiser and more profitable to try to sell you music to companies and advertisers who need it. The media always needs commercial music for promos and to market products, movies, TV shows, etc...

Don't make this into a musical version of The One Million Dollar Homepage, this is really about establishing a fan base that loves your music because it is that good. I'm going to quote Mark on this because what he said is important:
"... people don't buy songs, they don't by albums, they buy the emotion that the music produces so they can experience that feeling time and time again."

Finally, I'll also add read through Daniel E Taylor's threads in addition to the people Mark listed to see how other warriors carved out their own musical niche.

Ehanson

Thanks Ehanson for your helpful post. I'm fixated on selling 1 million albums. As far as the music is concerned, I do not want to rush it, but I'm really striving to complete the album by 2-3 months maximum, since I'll need as much time as I can get to devote to full time marketing. The genre is very commercial, Top 40 pop (with many tracks crossing over to the dance genre, which will help me in club promotion) A fanbase is great to have and I'll do what I can to build that. I'm open to music placement opportunities with larger companies as they arise. Anything that will help the final cause of selling 1 million albums (or digital downloads) will work for me. Submitting a cd to a major label is a major no for me. I'm 35 years old with a wife and 3 kids. The only way a major label will sign me as an artist, is once I created enough buzz and sales on my own. To which I would reply "What would I need a major label now, after I did all the hard work? They just want to reap the profits.

For me it's going to come down to the music, and that's what I will be banking on.

Thanks

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Mark Riddle

My First suggestion is to listen to David Hooper that gave comment in this thread. The next Step it to Follow Bob Baker (the Buzz Factor Indie Music Marketing Guy)

Air play and internet radio play will help in selling your music, but there are only a few people out there that are doing it correctly.

Currently in the music business selling the music is the least profitable of all income streams for musicians and groups.

Concert tours when done properly will bring in many more times income than music sales.

I work with literally hundreds of Independent singer songwriters, several that have topped the charts many times.

With planning and forethought, you can fairly easily plan the sales volume for a given recording solely based on audience reaction at performances.

While it is a great goal to sell a million "albums".

Just a hint only 25% of popular music total sales is physically CD's a reasonable modification of your goal will be a million albums not a million CD's.

There is quite a bit of science on song selection for your album as well as track order. This does make a difference in sales.

A bit of advice I can give you is remember that people don't buy songs, they don't by albums, they buy the emotion that the music produces so they can experience that feeling time and time again.

If you are looking solely at albums distributed as your goal, bulk sales is the best route (although lower profit) to achieve high dollar sales volume.

Why bother selling one at a time, when selling 5K to 10K at a time will help you achieve your goal.

Mark Riddle

KC Cafe Radio

Thank you Mark for the very insightful post (I'm taking notes). First off, I've bookmarked David Hooper's website (a lot of info to go through there). You are totally right about concert sales. People will usually buy the whole package (artist, emotion, image, etc) But occasionally there are artists such as Moby where more of the music matters more then the presentation. To reach my goal I will try to incorporate as much as I can. My first goal is to get one song popular through nightclubs and the internet (eventually spilling over to radio) If that happens, then I can look into distribution to sell off large amounts of products (if the demand is high enough, it should not be too difficult to get into the largest chain stores, such as Walmart.
Touring and shows may come in the future. Right now I'm just one person (I don't have a band together. For the genre (top 40/pop/dance) I could get away with doing small shows with just a few backup dancers. So that might be a good step.

Also, I just checked out your website, it looks great. Do you feature mainly independant musicians there?

Thanks
1 reply

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Mark Riddle

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Also, I just checked out your website, it looks great. Do you feature mainly independant musicians there?

Yes, it's 100% original music no covers no remakes.

The original Artists performing their own music.

The musicians are some of the finest on the planet, people you've heard on recordings for years, yet very few know their names.

Several have been on platinum selling albums, and world wide tours and are left out of the liner notes.

Memorable riffs and performance with people like Loggins and Messina, The Dirt Band, Chicago, Allen Jackson and Earth Wind and Fire just to name a few.

One of the performers has been listed as one of the top 25 finger-style guitarist in the USA.

YOU CAN be very successful in the music business by finding what make you unique and stick to it.

Mark Riddle

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by SurviveUnemployment

Good luck.

I'm curious to hear your stuff.

Thanks, I'll be posting a video probably by wednesday once I complete recording vocals for my first song on the album.

Originally Posted by lilmikey

My dad always said this to me, and it motivates me so much ,

"If a person doesnt laugh at you when you tell them your dream your not dreaming high enough" lol

Another thing is my dad is unable to read and write and what he has achieved in life finacially is amazing.

You can do it, i know you can look how popular this thread is, keep the buzz keep people talking about it and go for it.

I wish you the best of luck in doing this :p aim for the stars (ive subscribed to the thread)

A fellow beliver

Mikey

Your father is a wise man. I'm aiming for the stars and going there.

Originally Posted by Andrew Maule

Get a press release and some publicity, try to get people interested in what you're doing on a broad scale, that'll make it realllly easy to do.

I actualy wrote one today, I now want to finalize it and possibly get a few second opions before I get it out there.

Originally Posted by Gee Sanghera

Also try get publicity on the radio. Traditional radio shows may not be interested but if you can get an internet based radio that may work.

Hi Gee, yes I'm hoping to tap into both traditional and internet radio

Originally Posted by butters

Getting oprah to promote your product wouldn't be much of an accomplishment?

Don't get me wrong. It would. But if she were to have me tomorrow, the story would go, he got on Oprah and sold 1 million copies. It would be a great letdown to all independent musicians rooting for me

Originally Posted by Lance K

You mean to tell me that people still buy records (music albums)?

I can't remember the last time I did that. For years now, it's been one song at a time via iTunes.

Regardless, best of luck on your quest to achieve your goals!!!

I say records, but that means everything, cd's and digital downloads. Initially, I'll just be offering my music through digital networkds such as iTunes and Amazon Music

Originally Posted by AJ Silvers

Wow, so many negative responses!

I like audacious goals, I mean if you only achieve 10% you've still got a decent amount of business.

Also I have found there is a hidden magic in this type of goal. If you say you are going to sell 100 albums in one year and ask yourself how you are going to do it you'll come up with some very different answers than if you say you're going to sell 1,000,000 and then work out how.

The great thing about asking yourself a bigger question is that you generally get a bigger answer!

You may also find this article useful: The Technium: 1,000 True Fans

Good luck and I'll be subscribing to your youtube channel to watch the fun :-)

AJ

Thanks AJ, I went through the article and there are many valid points there. That would definately help many struggling bands out there. For what I'm trying to achieve, I'm just going to have get out a few great songs to the masses.

Originally Posted by Killer Joe

Hi,

I looked around on your site and I didn't see a link to any song you're promoting. That's not unusual for me, btw.

If you're not currently promoting a song you're missing out on a lot of front end juice even here in this thread.

You can't waste those opportunities if you want to hit your goal.

So where is the link where we can hear your song?

KJ

Hi KJ, well, my story is that I'm documenting the entire process, from the writing, recording, singing, and mixing the music. I made this decision on January 1st, and as of yesterday, I have the music and lyrics completed for the first song. I'm a little under the weather right now, so I hope to record my vocals probably Tuesday, and then I'll be able to post a little sample.

Originally Posted by Mark Riddle

Yes, it's 100% original music no covers no remakes.

The original Artists performing their own music.

The musicians are some of the finest on the planet, people you've heard on recordings for years, yet very few know their names.

Several have been on platinum selling albums, and world wide tours and are left out of the liner notes.

Memorable riffs and performance with people like Loggins and Messina, The Dirt Band, Chicago, Allen Jackson and Earth Wind and Fire just to name a few.

One of the performers has been listed as one of the top 25 finger-style guitarist in the USA.

YOU CAN be very successful in the music business by finding what make you unique and stick to it.

Mark Riddle

Thats fantastic Mark. Through the years I met so many talented people that, because they don't look a certain way or fit a cookie cutter mold set up by the major record labels, they go completely unnoticed. I'm going to be fighting for those people.

Thanks

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cybergod

16 years ago

Another music lover in town. All the best with your selling. Dont punch too many at the beginning stage, check hows the movement first.

Regards

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by cybergod

Another music lover in town. All the best with your selling. Dont punch too many at the beginning stage, check hows the movement first.

Regards

Oh yes, I'll be test marketing along the way to make sure I'm on the right track
- Thanks
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wemakeiteasy

16 years ago

I believe you can do it.

With your old school method, and probably some social media strategies like youtube, facebook, twitter, and myspace can help your music go viral.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by wemakeiteasy

I believe you can do it.

With your old school method, and probably some social media strategies like youtube, facebook, twitter, and myspace can help your music go viral.

thanks. Viral marketing is my best friend right now

Thanks

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Jacer

16 years ago

Ignore the haters! It is great to see people dream big. Will be interesting to see close you come to pulling this off.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by Jacer

Ignore the haters! It is great to see people dream big. Will be interesting to see close you come to pulling this off.

Thanks Jacer. I belive I can pull this off. I see many independant artists just wanting to sell 50-100 cd's. If you truly want something, you have to set your goal, and live and breathe it until it is accomplished, and that's what I'm trying to do.
- Thanks
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claywalsh

16 years ago

Well... If "Soulja Boy" who got big from a Soundclick.com told me he was gonna sell 1 million albums in a year I would have laughed pretty hard. Yet he got big.

Honestly, a little club promotion and local radio airplay won't even bring you CLOSE to your goal man - you're gonna need to get picked up by people with marketing budgets and far reach. That or go mega viral on myspace... but seriously getting played at the clubs won't get you there, think bigger and skip that step.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by claywalsh

Well... If "Soulja Boy" who got big from a Soundclick.com told me he was gonna sell 1 million albums in a year I would have laughed pretty hard. Yet he got big.

Honestly, a little club promotion and local radio airplay won't even bring you CLOSE to your goal man - you're gonna need to get picked up by people with marketing budgets and far reach. That or go mega viral on myspace... but seriously getting played at the clubs won't get you there, think bigger and skip that step.

Yes, in regards to club play you are right. But, it is an inexpensive way to get the ball rolling. Many record pools (organizations which distribute music to dj's) accept mp3 submissions, so it really does not cost anything to start promoting through the clubs. Also, you there are many club dj's with their own radio shows. All it takes is one to give it an initial play, and if people really like it, it can create a snowball effect. Back in the day, Vanilla Ice got very famous because one popular DJ decided to play the song on the other side of the record (the b side ) and the rest is history

Thanks

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Mike Hines

Banned 16 years ago

[DELETED]

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by Mike Hines

The best of luck to you! I'm also a music artist and I'm very inspired by your story, just stay with it and don't let anything stop you!

Thanks Mike. If you have musical aspirations, I say go for it just like I'm doing
- Thanks
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claywalsh

16 years ago

And I only say it "won't get you there" because your trying to get there in ONE year, a very short amount of time.

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by claywalsh

And I only say it "won't get you there" because your trying to get there in ONE year, a very short amount of time.

I think one year is the right amount of pressure I need for this goal. How hard would you work towards something if you knew you had 5 years to complete it VS 1 year?
- Thanks
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williameasling

Banned 16 years ago

[DELETED]

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by williameasling

A dreamer. jest keep the dream and stick with it.

yes, most definitely
- Thanks
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Andy Money 16 years ago

Get a press release and some publicity, try to get people interested in what you're doing on a broad scale, that'll make it realllly easy to do.
- Thanks
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cgcmarketing 16 years ago

Take it day by day, that's the best way to go, and you obviously know that. Good luck to you
- Thanks
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Jeremy Morgan 16 years ago

Go for it. Thousands of people throughout history have faced odds like you are facing, and succeeded. They all had people telling them it wouldn't happen as well. It won't be easy but it's certainly possible. Work hard and give it your best!
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Marian 16 years ago

Good luck! I keep my fingers crossed for you!

Marian
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RefundHost 16 years ago

If you can do this ...

...you'll be able to charge a $250K
consulting fee to all the major record
companies and $25,000 to all the
independents. lol
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Mya

16 years ago

I love it! But I was looking for something where you're singing, and couldn't find anything. I'm just a closet singer and I have music all over the internet LOL.

But I was thinking you could totally take advantage of Amazon and their createspace. That way its no money out of your pocket, only your time and energy getting those songs sold.

I'm following hot on your track, because I'm a music dreamer too. I get amazing compliments on my singing abilities, in fact I was offered to sing as Patsy Cline across Canada at one point in my life but was deep into my schooling at that time. Today I wish I had done it.

Follow your dreams my friend, I will be watching, and hey, maybe I might be your first sale!

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Mya

I love it! But I was looking for something where you're singing, and couldn't find anything. I'm just a closet singer and I have music all over the internet LOL.

But I was thinking you could totally take advantage of Amazon and their createspace. That way its no money out of your pocket, only your time and energy getting those songs sold.

I'm following hot on your track, because I'm a music dreamer too. I get amazing compliments on my singing abilities, in fact I was offered to sing as Patsy Cline across Canada at one point in my life but was deep into my schooling at that time. Today I wish I had done it.

Follow your dreams my friend, I will be watching, and hey, maybe I might be your first sale!

Thanks Mya. I'll be uploading a video blog probably next week as I'll be tracking the vocals for the first song. As far as Amazon, I believe I'm going to go with a company called TuneCore.com (you submit your song digitally, and they make it available to all the popular music websites such as iTunes and Amazon Music. If you have a dream, I say go for it. Even if you just do it part time, just try to devote some time to it every day so it gets you one step closer to your goal.

Thanks

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Dave777

16 years ago

Have a nice little chat, connection and JV with gangsta rapper Lil Wayne...

How to sell a million records in a week | Pet Marmoset

Dave

Thanks
2 replies

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Hanz

16 years ago

Try to get Oprah to promote your album on her show then you'll make more than a million sales I bet.

Thanks
2 replies

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discrat 16 years ago

At first I thought this guy was crazy. There have been thousands of Artists in the last few decades who have been backed by HUGE Distribution Companies like Warner Brothers, Capitol, Atlantic etc..etc.... that have not come close to selling 1 million records.

But then I thought and said to myself if a guy can sell over a million units of the Pet Rock then why not this guy selling 1 million records of music no one has ever heard ??

Go for it, dude !!
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- VegasVince 16 years ago
  
  Hey.....you're off to a good start.
  
  When ever anyone has any type of ambition...the critics, cynics, naysayers, and haters will come out en masse....like lemmings dropping to their death after I sell them an imported parachute from China that doesn't open.
  
  Oooops! Sorry.
  
  So start by making sure if you only have a few haters...that you get some more.
  
  As for marketing.....consider modeling my friend Terra Naomi...who parlayed social media into a major record deal. Google her..so I don't get sweated by the powers that be. (She's all over youtube)
  
  Speaking of You Tube....learn a technique called You Tube Video Hijacking...taught by my home boy...and marketing OG... Jason Moffatt.
  
  It's not as sinister as it sounds.....and pretty effective in terms of driving free traffic to your site or what ever.
  
  In the end...the music industry is a tough nut to crack...due to massive competition.
  
  Granted "talent" often is trumped by good lip syncing and greater marketing...and can you say Britney Spears Bi-atches?
  
  At the same time, however, the fact great marketing can often overcome talent....is something to jump on....because it's easier to learn how to market then it is to sing like Sinatra...or that nanny from American Idol...who looks like she went 15 rounds with a young Mike Tyson.
  
  Best of luck to you'se.
  
  Rock on.
  
  xxx Vegas Vince
  Killing Me Softly.....
  
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Dave777

Have a nice little chat, connection and JV with gangsta rapper Lil Wayne...

How to sell a million records in a week | Pet Marmoset

Dave

Originally Posted by Hanz

Try to get Oprah to promote your album on her show then you'll make more than a million sales I bet.

you are right, but If she featured me tomorrow and I sold 1 million the following week, it wouldn't be much of an accomplishment (don't get me wrong, financially it would be great)

Thanks
1 reply

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butters

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

you are right, but If she featured me tomorrow and I sold 1 million the following week, it wouldn't be much of an accomplishment (don't get me wrong, financially it would be great)

Getting oprah to promote your product wouldn't be much of an accomplishment?

Thanks

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syntheticrhyme 16 years ago

Originally Posted by Dave777

Have a nice little chat, connection and JV with gangsta rapper Lil Wayne...
How to sell a million records in a week | Pet Marmoset

Dave

one million in one week, now that's big
- Thanks
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Jvsnow01

16 years ago

Hi Syntheticryhme,

You have a big ambition there.
It's in an area I know very little of and it's inspiring to read your statement.

It's your dream. Go for it!!
You never know how many lives you may touch or change through your music.

All the best with your journey.

Jvsnow01.

Thanks

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SurviveUnemployment

16 years ago

Good luck.

I'm curious to hear your stuff.

Thanks

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Michael Formby

16 years ago

My dad always said this to me, and it motivates me so much ,

"If a person doesnt laugh at you when you tell them your dream your not dreaming high enough" lol

Another thing is my dad is unable to read and write and what he has achieved in life finacially is amazing.

You can do it, i know you can look how popular this thread is, keep the buzz keep people talking about it and go for it.

I wish you the best of luck in doing this :p aim for the stars (ive subscribed to the thread)

A fellow beliver

Mikey

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

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Sumit Menon 16 years ago

Originally Posted by lilmikey

"If a person doesnt laugh at you when you tell them your dream your not dreaming high enough" lol

A fellow beliver
Mikey

Yeah.. I'm gonna steal that!

To the OP. Go For It! You might not make it... You might only sell 100 copies but at least you'll have 100 new fans and know that you can sing.

Sumit.
- Thanks
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Gee S

16 years ago

Also try get publicity on the radio. Traditional radio shows may not be interested but if you can get an internet based radio that may work.

Thanks
1 reply

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Lance K 16 years ago

You mean to tell me that people still buy records (music albums)?

I can't remember the last time I did that. For years now, it's been one song at a time via iTunes.

Regardless, best of luck on your quest to achieve your goals!!!
- Thanks
- 1 reply
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- Killer Joe 16 years ago
  
  Hi,
  
  I looked around on your site and I didn't see a link to any song you're promoting. That's not unusual for me, btw.
  
  If you're not currently promoting a song you're missing out on a lot of front end juice even here in this thread.
  
  You can't waste those opportunities if you want to hit your goal.
  
  So where is the link where we can hear your song?
  
  KJ
  
  Thanks
  
  Signature
  
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Dave777

16 years ago

One more Quick one make sure you're putting into Action...

http://www.google.ca/search?hl=en&cl...tbs=ww:1&tbo=1

Dave

Thanks

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lcombs

16 years ago

Armand Morin did it.
100% online. No air-play.
#1 on Amazon, #1 on Billboard.

Go to Amazon and look for "Michael Lee Austin"

By the way, he is very good.

Thanks

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UnstoppableJoy

16 years ago

You know there was a crazy guy from Switzerland named Yves who had the most impracticable dream imaginable.

Yves dreamed of being able to fly like Buzz Lightyear - the cartoon character in Toy Story.

Imagine how his family, co worker and friends probably reacted when he talked about his dream. "You wanna do WHAT?" I am sure he was laughed at and criticized by nearly everyone for his TOTALLY unrealistic dream.

But Yves was consumed by this insane dream. Talk about unrealistic.

He didn't give up on that dream. He fixed it in his mind. He visualized himself soaring through the air - like an Eagle - free and unencumbered zooming along on rocket powered wings.

We all have such "crazy" dreams. For most they get pushed away by far more practical thoughts. I mean, come on. Rocket wings? Get real.

Instead of following the masses and allowing himself to believe that dream was out of reach - he went to work. He spent years developing and testing a set of rocket powered wings.

While working on this ridiculous quest he crashed. He got burned.

Unfazed, like the scarred and battered Don Quixote from "The Man of La Mancha" he pushed forward through the disappointments and failed tests and prototypes as he focused on fulfilling his impossible dream.

August 26th, 2008 is a great day in the history of fulfilled dreams.

Because on that day that crazy dreamer flew over the English Channel at over 100 MPH using his rocket powered wings!

To quote eyewitness Charles Bremner from the "Times Online" Blog

"Yves Rossy had just leaped from the safety of his jump plane. Following behind, we watched in awe as "Fusionman" extended the eight foot wings strapped to his back, ending his free-fall and swooped into level flight.

"The Times' Cessna 182 was part of the little squadron of two helicopters and two planes that escorted Rossy as he made history, zooming like Buzz Lightyear, the spaceman of Toy Story, out into the wide blue yonder."

Yeah, Yves - Congratulations!

The crazy dreamer is now waving at the masses from high in the sky as he flies like a majestic eagle. We look back up in amazement, humbled by the man who dared to take his dream to completion.

That is what I say to those who will give someone 1000 reasons why your crazy dream cannot come true :-)

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bettersocial

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Hi warriors, I just wanted to say that I've picked up many great marketing tips throughout the past years, and I've decided to apply them to my first passion in life, which is music. My new year's resolution is to completely write, record and mix my own music cd, and have it sell 1 million copies, all within one year's time. I will be documenting practically everything I do along the way. If there are any aspiring musicians out there, hopefully this can inspire you to do the same.

I did a video on youtube titled:
I'm Going To Sell 1 Million Records (Music Albums) - Watch Me Do It

Any ideas or extra tips from you marketing gurus are always welcome

All the best, but 1 million is a HUGE number for an online only album. Not only will your music have to be absolutely terrific, you will also have to build up an image over time. These would take a lot of time and effort, but if you do succeed, I will be the first one to shake your hand.

Thanks
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Stephen Crooks 16 years ago

Yeah, but when he sells a million will he be too big to shake yours

Originally Posted by sashas

... but if you do succeed, I will be the first one to shake your hand.
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- Stephen Crooks 16 years ago
  
  Go for it! Amazing challenge and I will be watching you all the way. I think to succeed it is more about the publicity than the music itself. Have you considered doing this for charity?
  
  The charity you choose will benefit and it will also help a lot to give you the publicity you need. Somehow you need to find a unique and new angle to lift your challenge above others in the music biz.
  
  Thanks
  
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Dennis Gaskill

16 years ago

If you're going to do the improbable you need to think outside the box. Do you have a domain name yet?

onemillionrecordsinoneyear.com is available. I'd grab it to document your journey. That's how the guy that traded a red paper clip for a house and some of those other wacky stories got picked up by major media.

Make nice with every mailing list owner you can. Offer them a free copy of your album for their personal use if they'll tell your story, and let them send their subscribers to your website so their subscribers can download a free song.

If you make the list owner look good by allowing him/her to pass on free music to his/her list, more will be inclined to tell your story. The more mailing lists that pick up your story the closer you'll get to your goal. This isn't something you're going to do on your own, you need help, and a few hundred or thousand mailing lists could be a big help. I'd help you out. You or your family and friends should be contacting list owners every day.

Then on the song download page, offer those grabbing a free song a chance to get one more free song. Use a refer-a-friend script to have them send your story, complete with a link to your free download, to three friends. If they do they get another free song.

The thing is, you have to think viral to have a chance.

Learn how to write press releases if you don't know how, or get someone who can, and issue a lot of press releases along the way. This could be your avenue to getting picked up by major media.

There's a start...of course, your music has to be good, but you probably figured that out for yourself. :rolleyes:

What I'd like to know that I didn't see anyone else ask, unless I missed it, is what kind of music is it? New age, rock, alternative or what???

Thanks

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eudaemonia

16 years ago

Go for it and good luck!

Thanks

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Brad Gosse

16 years ago

This sounds a great goal :-)

My advice to you, is to take one to two tracks and make them available on P2P networks. Rename them using the various band influences that you already have. You will pick up similar fans who may find your music enjoyable as well. Of course you will need to have some type of introduction at the beginning of each song and more importantly how to find you at the end.

P2P networks give independent musicians access to the biggest audience online or free :-)

Thanks

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mandela10

16 years ago

I will be here all year long, and i will d myself the favor of subscribing to this thread. i want to learn how you are going to do that. And if you succeed, I will give you a big kudos and your greatest fan.

Thanks

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Tom E

16 years ago

In this day and age, in order to achieve your goal, youtube is your best bet. If you can get your channel/videos to go viral there, you have a real shot at your dream.

On that note, after watching a couple of your youtube videos, here are my observations: You need to make them WAY shorter and to the point. There's nothing wrong with explaining what kind of mic and input board you're using, but apart from your occasional tech-head, it will make most people click off your page. You have a great idea, but your videos come off a bit bland and dry.

Think from the viewer's point of view when you're making/editing a video - ask yourself "why would people want to watch this video?". If you disagree with this, put it to the test. Before uploading, play your video for at least 5 people (who are not tech heads) and get their input.

One thing I also highly recommend you do is go to youtube and click on "most subscribed" channels. Pick some musical artists and soak it up like a sponge. What are they doing that draws hundreds of thousands of subscribers? Having studied them myself, I can tell you that in most cases, it's NOT talent. One thing I can promise you is that you will find NO ONE on that list without super-tight edits - all their videos are made and edited very tight - because most people's attention span these days is like pocket lint.

I wish you nothing but the best - hope you reach your goal!

Thanks

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CPA

16 years ago

I hate it when people are in music just to sell stuff and say that its their only love. I understand that you gotta live off something but it seems to make like you're only doing it for the money. You better get something really impressive done first.

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Daniel E Taylor

16 years ago

Threads like this is what gives "The Secret" a bad
name.

My main niche is very invovled with the music industry.

Record sales are at an all time low.

Multi-platinum super famous music artists can
barely move 100,000 units.

Ever heard of 50 cent? One of the most
famous music artists in the world.

His latest album barely sold 400,000 copies.

That's with millions of dollars in promotion,
countless hours of radio/TV/internet promotion.

Touring in front of sell out crowds.

You honestly think you are going to sell
1,000,000 records?

"Oh but daniel don't be negative".

I'm not. I want you to pursue and live your
dreams.

I want you to accomplish big dreams.

But why not set your goal to sell 10,000 CD's
first.

Which is still extremely good and allows you to
take the next step.

You may be able to sell 1 million records, but
that's not a goal you are going to be able
to reach in 1 year.

Why not make that a 10 year goal? Or a vision
with no timeline and let it unfold.

Daniel

Thanks
2 replies

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by lcombs

Armand Morin did it.
100% online. No air-play.
#1 on Amazon, #1 on Billboard.

Go to Amazon and look for "Michael Lee Austin"

By the way, he is very good.

Thanks, I'll look into him. I've never heard of him (possibly because of the genre of music, but I must know more if he did it strictly online.

Originally Posted by AffiliateKungfu

"Always listen to experts. They will tell you what can't be done and why. Then go do it! " -Lararus Long
thanks Lararus, you are right

Originally Posted by mikeb209

I think it's attainable especially if you sell them online at social networking sites at prolly a buck each. I don't thik it'll be that hard if you're creative with it.

good luck

thanks, I will be as creative as I can be

Originally Posted by UnstoppableJoy

You know there was a crazy guy from Switzerland named Yves who had the most impracticable dream imaginable.

Yves dreamed of being able to fly like Buzz Lightyear - the cartoon character in Toy Story.

Imagine how his family, co worker and friends probably reacted when he talked about his dream. "You wanna do WHAT?" I am sure he was laughed at and criticized by nearly everyone for his TOTALLY unrealistic dream.

But Yves was consumed by this insane dream. Talk about unrealistic.

He didn't give up on that dream. He fixed it in his mind. He visualized himself soaring through the air - like an Eagle - free and unencumbered zooming along on rocket powered wings.

We all have such "crazy" dreams. For most they get pushed away by far more practical thoughts. I mean, come on. Rocket wings? Get real.

Instead of following the masses and allowing himself to believe that dream was out of reach - he went to work. He spent years developing and testing a set of rocket powered wings.

While working on this ridiculous quest he crashed. He got burned.

Unfazed, like the scarred and battered Don Quixote from "The Man of La Mancha" he pushed forward through the disappointments and failed tests and prototypes as he focused on fulfilling his impossible dream.

August 26th, 2008 is a great day in the history of fulfilled dreams.

Because on that day that crazy dreamer flew over the English Channel at over 100 MPH using his rocket powered wings!

To quote eyewitness Charles Bremner from the "Times Online" Blog

"Yves Rossy had just leaped from the safety of his jump plane. Following behind, we watched in awe as "Fusionman" extended the eight foot wings strapped to his back, ending his free-fall and swooped into level flight.

"The Times' Cessna 182 was part of the little squadron of two helicopters and two planes that escorted Rossy as he made history, zooming like Buzz Lightyear, the spaceman of Toy Story, out into the wide blue yonder."

Yeah, Yves - Congratulations!

The crazy dreamer is now waving at the masses from high in the sky as he flies like a majestic eagle. We look back up in amazement, humbled by the man who dared to take his dream to completion.

That is what I say to those who will give someone 1000 reasons why your crazy dream cannot come true :-)

wow, great story. My goal is pretty pale in comparison to what he went on to achieve. Just goes to show you what 100% perseverance can do

Originally Posted by sashas

All the best, but 1 million is a HUGE number for an online only album. Not only will your music have to be absolutely terrific, you will also have to build up an image over time. These would take a lot of time and effort, but if you do succeed, I will be the first one to shake your hand.

thanks Sashas, I appreciate it

Originally Posted by Dennis Gaskill

If you're going to do the improbable you need to think outside the box. Do you have a domain name yet?

onemillionrecordsinoneyear.com is available. I'd grab it to document your journey. That's how the guy that traded a red paper clip for a house and some of those other wacky stories got picked up by major media.

Make nice with every mailing list owner you can. Offer them a free copy of your album for their personal use if they'll tell your story, and let them send their subscribers to your website so their subscribers can download a free song.

If you make the list owner look good by allowing him/her to pass on free music to his/her list, more will be inclined to tell your story. The more mailing lists that pick up your story the closer you'll get to your goal. This isn't something you're going to do on your own, you need help, and a few hundred or thousand mailing lists could be a big help. I'd help you out. You or your family and friends should be contacting list owners every day.

Then on the song download page, offer those grabbing a free song a chance to get one more free song. Use a refer-a-friend script to have them send your story, complete with a link to your free download, to three friends. If they do they get another free song.

The thing is, you have to think viral to have a chance.

Learn how to write press releases if you don't know how, or get someone who can, and issue a lot of press releases along the way. This could be your avenue to getting picked up by major media.

There's a start...of course, your music has to be good, but you probably figured that out for yourself. :rolleyes:

What I'd like to know that I didn't see anyone else ask, unless I missed it, is what kind of music is it? New age, rock, alternative or what???

thanks for the great tips. For a domain, I registered Sell1MillionRecords.com and made it into a wordpress blog where I update it with my daily youtube video posts. The mailing list owner idea is great, I'll be looking into that. For a press release, I just wrote a simple one (have not sent it out yet). Is it wise to do many? I'm not experienced in this area. For the genre of music, it is commercial top 40 pop and dance (it gives me a great avenue to promote through the nightclubs). I'm also influenced by the melodic pop of the 80's, having grown up in that era, so that comes through in my music

Originally Posted by fredjr1978

I think this post already has some followers! You can count me in,...

thanks, I appreciate it

Originally Posted by eudaemonia

Go for it and good luck!

thanks so much

Originally Posted by Brad Gosse

This sounds a great goal :-)

My advice to you, is to take one to two tracks and make them available on P2P networks. Rename them using the various band influences that you already have. You will pick up similar fans who may find your music enjoyable as well. Of course you will need to have some type of introduction at the beginning of each song and more importantly how to find you at the end.

P2P networks give independent musicians access to the biggest audience online or free :-)

thanks. I thought about P2P in the past, and I'm not sold on it yet. Usually, a song can spread like wildfire but it can hurt sales. It might be a good idea to offer a sample

Originally Posted by mandela10

I will be here all year long, and i will d myself the favor of subscribing to this thread. i want to learn how you are going to do that. And if you succeed, I will give you a big kudos and your greatest fan.

thank you so much, I appreciate that

Originally Posted by gr8tocre8

In this day and age, in order to achieve your goal, youtube is your best bet. If you can get your channel/videos to go viral there, you have a real shot at your dream.

On that note, after watching a couple of your youtube videos, here are my observations: You need to make them WAY shorter and to the point. There's nothing wrong with explaining what kind of mic and input board you're using, but apart from your occasional tech-head, it will make most people click off your page. You have a great idea, but your videos come off a bit bland and dry.

Think from the viewer's point of view when you're making/editing a video - ask yourself "why would people want to watch this video?". If you disagree with this, put it to the test. Before uploading, play your video for at least 5 people (who are not tech heads) and get their input.

One thing I also highly recommend you do is go to youtube and click on "most subscribed" channels. Pick some musical artists and soak it up like a sponge. What are they doing that draws hundreds of thousands of subscribers? Having studied them myself, I can tell you that in most cases, it's NOT talent. One thing I can promise you is that you will find NO ONE on that list without super-tight edits - all their videos are made and edited very tight - because most people's attention span these days is like pocket lint.

I wish you nothing but the best - hope you reach your goal!

Thanks for the tips, I'll look into it. I've thought about editing the videos shorter. Right now they are just one take (I think it allows me to connect better with people) It's a 2 sided sword, there are many musicians who are following to learn the technical aspects, so for them it's great. For the casual observer, it may be boring, I agree

Originally Posted by cgcmarketing

Take it day by day, that's the best way to go, and you obviously know that. Good luck to you

thank you so much

Originally Posted by Steve Crooks

Yeah, but when he sells a million will he be too big to shake yours

no, not at all. In fact, when I meet my goal, it would be nice to have a little Warrior Forum meet up somewhere. I've learned a lot from this forum in the past, and all the great info everyone is providing me with now is really helping me with my journey

Originally Posted by Steve Crooks

Go for it! Amazing challenge and I will be watching you all the way. I think to succeed it is more about the publicity than the music itself. Have you considered doing this for charity?

The charity you choose will benefit and it will also help a lot to give you the publicity you need. Somehow you need to find a unique and new angle to lift your challenge above others in the music biz.

Thanks Steve. I thought about charity and would like to be associated with one I believe in. However, I don't think initially I would be able to do it since likely, any initial profit would have to be re-invested in order to reach my goal (cd pressings, shipping to radio stations, dj's etc)

Originally Posted by Jeremy Morgan

Go for it. Thousands of people throughout history have faced odds like you are facing, and succeeded. They all had people telling them it wouldn't happen as well. It won't be easy but it's certainly possible. Work hard and give it your best!

Thanks Jeremy, I'll definately give it my best

Originally Posted by CPA

I hate it when people are in music just to sell stuff and say that its their only love. I understand that you gotta live off something but it seems to make like you're only doing it for the money. You better get something really impressive done first.

No, in my case you have it all round, it is indeed for my passion in life, which is music. I recorded my first song when I was 10 years old using a four track recorder (i'm 35 now)

Originally Posted by Daniel E Taylor

Threads like this is what gives "The Secret" a bad
name.

My main niche is very invovled with the music industry.

Record sales are at an all time low.

Multi-platinum super famous music artists can
barely move 100,000 units.

Ever heard of 50 cent? One of the most
famous music artists in the world.

His latest album barely sold 400,000 copies.

That's with millions of dollars in promotion,
countless hours of radio/TV/internet promotion.

Touring in front of sell out crowds.

You honestly think you are going to sell
1,000,000 records?

"Oh but daniel don't be negative".

I'm not. I want you to pursue and live your
dreams.

I want you to accomplish big dreams.

But why not set your goal to sell 10,000 CD's
first.

Which is still extremely good and allows you to
take the next step.

You may be able to sell 1 million records, but
that's not a goal you are going to be able
to reach in 1 year.

Why not make that a 10 year goal? Or a vision
with no timeline and let it unfold.

Daniel

Hi Daniel, I understand your point. If I was following the current formula for selling records, then it would probably not be possible. But that is why I'm going in a different direction

Thanks

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whawk57

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Daniel E Taylor

Threads like this is what gives "The Secret" a bad
name.

My main niche is very invovled with the music industry.

Record sales are at an all time low.

Multi-platinum super famous music artists can
barely move 100,000 units.

Ever heard of 50 cent? One of the most
famous music artists in the world.

His latest album barely sold 400,000 copies.

That's with millions of dollars in promotion,
countless hours of radio/TV/internet promotion.

Touring in front of sell out crowds.

You honestly think you are going to sell
1,000,000 records?

"Oh but daniel don't be negative".

I'm not. I want you to pursue and live your
dreams.

I want you to accomplish big dreams.

But why not set your goal to sell 10,000 CD's
first.

Which is still extremely good and allows you to
take the next step.

You may be able to sell 1 million records, but
that's not a goal you are going to be able
to reach in 1 year.

Why not make that a 10 year goal? Or a vision
with no timeline and let it unfold.

Daniel

Isn't 50 Cents outdated? Music is food for the soul. So if it's good and fresh, it can easily sell out to that date it is promoted. Music should be fresh.

Thanks

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VilPietersen@

16 years ago

If your happy with the time you're going to commit then I say why the hell not. Everything I've done in my life was because I didn't want to say to myself when I'm sitting there at the age of 60, what if? That question is the most scary question to me and I don't want you to ask yourself that quaetion.

oh and 35, mate you ever heard of susan boyle?

Thanks

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whawk57

16 years ago

I believe you can do it.
Music on the the internet is the second biggest business.
There is just too much scam going on this industry.
But if you can get through all of this scam and on top of it then you will reach your goal and if your music is emotionally enjoyable good.
So be careful to not to enter any scammy promotions so you may stay clean and pure.
Facebook. myspace, twitter and other media social networks can, I bet, already reach your goal without the search engines.
Focus on the social networks and forget the search engines.The search engines will come following anyway.

Stay Focused And Happy Vibes
Peace
DJ White Hawk

Thanks

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Mr. Enthusiastic

16 years ago

This is an interesting thread and I'll enjoy seeing your journey throughout the year.

What are the best selling debut albums of all time? My understanding is that they are Boston's first album, and Alanis Morissette's "Jagged Little Pill." (She had done teeny-bobber Canadian bubblegum albums before, but was unknown to the American hard-rock audience.) What most helped their success? Radio play. So, what is your plan to get lots of radio play? Or, is there something in today's music business that is more important than radio play?

What are the best selling independently produced (not on a major label) albums of all time? My guess is that they're Ghosts from Nine Inch Nails (ghosts.nin.com) and Radiohead's In Rainbows. Interesting thing about both of them: there was a range of prices. Radiohead let people pay what they wanted, while NIN offered a menu of options at fixed prices: $5 for 40 tracks plus 40 page pdf, up to $300 for one of the 2,500 signed ultra-deluxe packages: the same music on 4 vinyl LP's, 2 audio CD's, Blu-Ray super high-res stereo with slideshow, and data DVD with raw tracks for remix fans, along with the 48 page art photo book, and 2 frameable posters.

So, what is a way that you could have a range of options?
You could offer the CD for pre-order - say $5 for orders before you complete the album.
What else could you offer, inspired by NIN's package deals?

Looking at your website I notice there's no place to sign up for your mailing list! You could get an aweber account, and let people sign up for a free weekly newsletter update on your situation. If you had a subscription form I'd join in a heartbeat.

Your ambition relates to a lot of people's hopes and fears, dreams and goals, prejudices and preconceptions, knowledge and experience, about creativity, commerce, art, life choices, and the music business. How about a discussion forum on your site? Who knows, maybe you won't sell a million albums but will become, within a year, one of the best informed and best connected people about today's business business?

Can't wait to see how this will all turn out.

Chris

Thanks

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Ruka

16 years ago

Sounds wonderful, go for it synthetic rhyme!

Big dreams are always much more exciting ...

Thanks

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maksym

16 years ago

Great idea!!! Go for it and don't listen to others!!!
I just sent you PM, would like to discuss some idea with you.

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by VilPietersen@

If your happy with the time you're going to commit then I say why the hell not. Everything I've done in my life was because I didn't want to say to myself when I'm sitting there at the age of 60, what if? That question is the most scary question to me and I don't want you to ask yourself that quaetion.

oh and 35, mate you ever heard of susan boyle?

Thanks, I figure my time is now so I'm giving it all I got

Originally Posted by whawk57

I believe you can do it.
Music on the the internet is the second biggest business.
There is just too much scam going on this industry.
But if you can get through all of this scam and on top of it then you will reach your goal and if your music is emotionally enjoyable good.
So be careful to not to enter any scammy promotions so you may stay clean and pure.
Facebook. myspace, twitter and other media social networks can, I bet, already reach your goal without the search engines.
Focus on the social networks and forget the search engines.The search engines will come following anyway.

Stay Focused And Happy Vibes
Peace
DJ White Hawk

thanks, I'm totally on my own right now with practically a zero budget. I'm going to try to be as careful as possible with anything I get involved with

Originally Posted by Mr. Enthusiastic

This is an interesting thread and I'll enjoy seeing your journey throughout the year.

What are the best selling debut albums of all time? My understanding is that they are Boston's first album, and Alanis Morissette's "Jagged Little Pill." (She had done teeny-bobber Canadian bubblegum albums before, but was unknown to the American hard-rock audience.) What most helped their success? Radio play. So, what is your plan to get lots of radio play? Or, is there something in today's music business that is more important than radio play?

What are the best selling independently produced (not on a major label) albums of all time? My guess is that they're Ghosts from Nine Inch Nails (ghosts.nin.com) and Radiohead's In Rainbows. Interesting thing about both of them: there was a range of prices. Radiohead let people pay what they wanted, while NIN offered a menu of options at fixed prices: $5 for 40 tracks plus 40 page pdf, up to $300 for one of the 2,500 signed ultra-deluxe packages: the same music on 4 vinyl LP's, 2 audio CD's, Blu-Ray super high-res stereo with slideshow, and data DVD with raw tracks for remix fans, along with the 48 page art photo book, and 2 frameable posters.

So, what is a way that you could have a range of options?
You could offer the CD for pre-order - say $5 for orders before you complete the album.
What else could you offer, inspired by NIN's package deals?

Looking at your website I notice there's no place to sign up for your mailing list! You could get an aweber account, and let people sign up for a free weekly newsletter update on your situation. If you had a subscription form I'd join in a heartbeat.

Your ambition relates to a lot of people's hopes and fears, dreams and goals, prejudices and preconceptions, knowledge and experience, about creativity, commerce, art, life choices, and the music business. How about a discussion forum on your site? Who knows, maybe you won't sell a million albums but will become, within a year, one of the best informed and best connected people about today's business business?

Can't wait to see how this will all turn out.

Chris

Thanks Chris for the helpful tips. Airplay is a very expensive proposition. A major lable spends about 500,000 to breat a track on top 40 radio with no guarrantees. My method involves getting the music popular through the nightclubs and the internet. If it becomes popular enough, radio will follow. The pre-sale cd is a good idea and I may look intoI doing something like that. For the time being, I posted a pre-sale mp3 auction on ebay (mainly to build awareness and an email list). I do have to look into putting in a subscribe system on my blog (are there any free wordpress plugins that will do a good job?

Originally Posted by chickenlittle

Sounds wonderful, go for it synthetic rhyme!

Big dreams are always much more exciting ...

thank you, I appreciate it

Originally Posted by Scott Ames

It's funny how when someone posts a goal that we personally think is impossible that we label the person as a dreamer or fool. A bunch of negative comments follow with reasons why it won't work.

I know it's human nature. I am skeptical too about a lot of claims and plans.. but...

What if he shoots for 1 million albums and only sells 50,000 ? That's better than shooting for 50,000 and selling 2,000. What if the music is totally brilliant and it sells 1.5 million? We are making judgments based on our own beliefs.

How many totally wrote off Susan Boyle when they first saw her without ever hearing a note? Just sayin...

Thanks, we'll have to see where the final numbers end up

Originally Posted by maksym

Great idea!!! Go for it and don't listen to others!!!
I just sent you PM, would like to discuss some idea with you.

Thanks Maksym. I don't have a high enough post count to pm you back, so I emailed you on your blog

Thanks

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TheMagicShow

16 years ago

Good luck! Look at Susan Boyle, from a nobody with a great voice, to now a super star with all that she ever wanted. Of course she had some nice tv exposure, but you too can get what you want.

Anything is possible dood, youtube and connecting with people in a viral way is important.

Thanks

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TheMagicShow

16 years ago

Also, I'd for sure get the national media involved, a few press releases and tv could really boost your exposure and sales. Hope your voice is good to capitalize on your exposure.

Thanks

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Guy G.

16 years ago

I think it's an awesome goal. If it seams unachieveable, or just a little bit out of reach, then it's worth pursuing.

Wouldn't it bee cool if you spent the next 354 days building up everyone's suspense and launched on January 31st 12:01AM. Could you imagine selling all 1,000,000 records in that single day. Even if you only charged $5 for it you'd make it big.

So, on top of the daunting task of creating the album, I'd suggest you build up as much hype as possible and make it viral. You should probably aim for at least 10 youtube videos to have over 1million views each as it's committed purchasers are typically of a low percentage. 10% would kick but.

Also, FREE is the new currency. Provide as much value and free teaser clips of your work including the "making of" so people will fall in love with you. Make sure you turn this interest and these freebies into subscribers so you can continue to email them and provide them with the anticipatory emails of the album's launch.

Sounds exciting and I wish you great success

Thanks

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Banned 16 years ago

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Sam Smith 16 years ago

[font size=5]YOU CAN DO THIS. HERE'S WHY[/font]

...You're already closer than you think.

Not just in terms of commitment, but you've already created for yourself a real asset.

The pic you use on this forum, the name of the domain you've registered etc, are all very PR-able. Look at the responses in this thread -- it's a premise that is very sale-able to people.

Someone in this thread said "people don't buy albums, they buy emotions" -- well in my own, completely non-music-knowledgeable way, I'd say "people don't buy albums, they buy people" -- certainly as far as PR goes.

So here's my advice:

Maximise the PR: the whole underdog opportunity thing.

- GET THE MOST OUT OF WHERE YOU LIVE: Just the thread, domain, avatar, YouTube channel etc, shows you are more serious than most dreamers like this, and will get you your first attention. Like I say, this captures people's imaginations and PLAY UP the "hometown" thing as a starting point. You will be able to get a load of local news coverage.

- FACEBOOK GROUPS ARE GREAT VEHICLES FOR STUFF THAT CAPTURES THE IMAGINATION: And start, again, by focusing on the whole "hometown" thing. Get the city name in the title and the ambition to sell 1 million albums. This is a great way to start momentum.

Once you get those two things (which REALLY help each other) then the story becomes so much sweeter for media beyond your home-town: both really and online.

Look at that guy who challenged a news station to a race for Twitter followers! And over here in the UK, Simon Cowell's 'X Factor' (It's like the UK Idol) was beaten this Christmas by a grassroots campaign to get a very old metal song up there, because people root for the underdog.

in fact... here's a SPECIFIC idea... -- Get in touch with the guy who started that whole campaign to get Rage Against the Machine ahead of X-Factor. If you could persuade him to come on board, then it adds another nice hook. (And all but guarantees a round of press coverage: cheap hook for the journalists, attention grabbing headline, more unique, etc...)
- Thanks
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PM me if you need help with *big money* launches/pitches.
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thefuture

16 years ago

what you do man.. you rap????

Thanks

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ghoti

16 years ago

Hi again, syntheticrhyme. Hope you don't mind but...

I know this guy from domaining, Ebay and NP forum (Domainace). I've sold a few domains on Ebay, and it's hard work. Yes,you can make money, but to really make a decent living at it you have to be super organized, pretty damn smart, and have a targeted strategy.

Syntheticrhyme was selling all these domains at 99 cents to start, and had a ton of people baffled as to how he did it - even though he was kind enough to give the general outline of what he was doing. He build a system where 99% of the sellers were just muddling through.

So, I would be surprised if he doesn't find some measure of success here. I haven't heard the music, but I'd highly recommend watching his progress and learning a few things. I know I will.

Syntheticrhyme...sorry if you didn't need the endorsement, but I was surprised at all the negativity here in the Warrior forum of all places. Kick some a$$

Thanks

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Shoaib

16 years ago

Hey SyntheticRhyme.. I've been following this thread since it originally started, very interesting.

It seems like you have a solid grasp on what you are doing and how you are going to go about it. It's not one of those dreamer threads where someone says "I'm gonna do _________ by sitting on my a**".

You've actually already put your stuff into action. So, that's refreshing, and I have no doubt that you'll be able to accomplish your goal.

You're already starting to brand yourself by actually responding to all the negative posts in this thread in a polite and professional manner.

All you need is some good press. My one suggestion would be though to work on getting some higher resolution videos on your YouTube channel, and better audio quality as well.

Oh, and your baby is oh-so-cute!!

Good luck.

Thanks
1 reply

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Okane 16 years ago

Sure, it's possible.

You'll need more than just music... you need killer marketing.

Google "Bob Baker".

And... activate comments on your website (I suppose it's a blog, right?)

You need to connect with people, stir up controversy (like you did here already), build a fan base.

Haven't watched all your videos, but... did not find one with your music, so far? Is there one?

Your approach of helping others make better music by giving tips about music production on your blog will help you A LOT to accomplish your goal. Read my sig...

Marc
- Thanks
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warrior82

16 years ago

good luck

Thanks

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mathiaslebesby

16 years ago

It's possible to do this. Go for it!

How do you get professional results when you are recording the music?

Thanks

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Hi. :)

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lillian2444

16 years ago

What a great idea! If you really want to achieve this, then why dont you compile your album, and then sell for a 1 dollar download. Hope you see where I'm coming from.

Wish you the best of luck, and have also bookmarked you site to see how you are getting on.

Thanks
2 replies

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Darren Tan 16 years ago
Is it me or does everyone sees it too?

Some Pure Observations (fantastic job OP, thanks for letting me see it):
- OP is totally utilizing a superb way to build relationships
- By exposing himself and the whole process to other people from day 1 to the day of launch, he's building loyal followers
- the bonding he creates using such method is astonishing
- plus some Viral Effects (I can't imagine the effects)
- well I don't know if you are doing anything outside of WF, if you are not (which I definitely don't think), then you better do so fast
Thanks OP, I'm going to steal it and add on to my arsenal of marketing weapons.

Regards,
Darren

PS: You'll totally make it
- Thanks
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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Magic Mel

Good luck! Look at Susan Boyle, from a nobody with a great voice, to now a super star with all that she ever wanted. Of course she had some nice tv exposure, but you too can get what you want.

Anything is possible dood, youtube and connecting with people in a viral way is important.

thanks Mel. I'm focussing mainly on internet marketing at the time being, but hopefully it will lead to other media exposure

Originally Posted by Michael Taylor

Of course it's unlikely. But it IS possible. And if he wears the wet blanket you guys are trying to give him, he certainly won't sell a million.

Synth, you can do it.

Now, I have no idea how many CDs this next guy has sold, but he's gotten several million video views. He's really quirky, he hasn't done anything on YouTube in over a year, but his enthusiasm is a delight to watch as he plays. One thing you may want to do is let YouTube viewers peek behind the scenes and even perform for them. For your inspiration, Ronald Jenkees...

YouTube- Broadcast Yourself.

(Savvy YouTube viewers may recognize the beginning of this piece...it's the outro music used by Philip DeFranco in his videos.)

Thanks Michael, that's a cool video. I'm slowly building subscribers on you tube. I'm #21 most subscribed for the week in the musician category

Originally Posted by Guy G.

I think it's an awesome goal. If it seams unachieveable, or just a little bit out of reach, then it's worth pursuing.

Wouldn't it bee cool if you spent the next 354 days building up everyone's suspense and launched on January 31st 12:01AM. Could you imagine selling all 1,000,000 records in that single day. Even if you only charged $5 for it you'd make it big.

So, on top of the daunting task of creating the album, I'd suggest you build up as much hype as possible and make it viral. You should probably aim for at least 10 youtube videos to have over 1million views each as it's committed purchasers are typically of a low percentage. 10% would kick but.

Also, FREE is the new currency. Provide as much value and free teaser clips of your work including the "making of" so people will fall in love with you. Make sure you turn this interest and these freebies into subscribers so you can continue to email them and provide them with the anticipatory emails of the album's launch.

Sounds exciting and I wish you great success

Thanks Guy. I'm still going to be working on how pricing will work. Initially, I'll have to offer incenstives to get the ball rolling. Mainly, it the music will be available on iTunes (where prices are already set). I'm slowly building youtube views, but from what I understand youtube conversion is extremely low

Originally Posted by Sam Smith

[font size=5]YOU CAN DO THIS. HERE'S WHY[/font]

...You're already closer than you think.

Not just in terms of commitment, but you've already created for yourself a real asset.

The pic you use on this forum, the name of the domain you've registered etc, are all very PR-able. Look at the responses in this thread -- it's a premise that is very sale-able to people.

Someone in this thread said "people don't buy albums, they buy emotions" -- well in my own, completely non-music-knowledgeable way, I'd say "people don't buy albums, they buy people" -- certainly as far as PR goes.

So here's my advice:

Maximise the PR: the whole underdog opportunity thing.

- GET THE MOST OUT OF WHERE YOU LIVE: Just the thread, domain, avatar, YouTube channel etc, shows you are more serious than most dreamers like this, and will get you your first attention. Like I say, this captures people's imaginations and PLAY UP the "hometown" thing as a starting point. You will be able to get a load of local news coverage.

- FACEBOOK GROUPS ARE GREAT VEHICLES FOR STUFF THAT CAPTURES THE IMAGINATION: And start, again, by focusing on the whole "hometown" thing. Get the city name in the title and the ambition to sell 1 million albums. This is a great way to start momentum.

Once you get those two things (which REALLY help each other) then the story becomes so much sweeter for media beyond your home-town: both really and online.

Look at that guy who challenged a news station to a race for Twitter followers! And over here in the UK, Simon Cowell's 'X Factor' (It's like the UK Idol) was beaten this Christmas by a grassroots campaign to get a very old metal song up there, because people root for the underdog.

in fact... here's a SPECIFIC idea... -- Get in touch with the guy who started that whole campaign to get Rage Against the Machine ahead of X-Factor. If you could persuade him to come on board, then it adds another nice hook. (And all but guarantees a round of press coverage: cheap hook for the journalists, attention grabbing headline, more unique, etc...)

thanks Sam for the great tips. I suppose I'll have to look into local marketing as well (I'm overlooking that at the moment)

Originally Posted by thefuture

what you do man.. you rap????

no, I sing

Originally Posted by Marian

Good luck! I keep my fingers crossed for you!

Marian

thanks Marian

Originally Posted by ghoti

Hi again, syntheticrhyme. Hope you don't mind but...

I know this guy from domaining, Ebay and NP forum (Domainace). I've sold a few domains on Ebay, and it's hard work. Yes,you can make money, but to really make a decent living at it you have to be super organized, pretty damn smart, and have a targeted strategy.

Syntheticrhyme was selling all these domains at 99 cents to start, and had a ton of people baffled as to how he did it - even though he was kind enough to give the general outline of what he was doing. He build a system where 99% of the sellers were just muddling through.

So, I would be surprised if he doesn't find some measure of success here. I haven't heard the music, but I'd highly recommend watching his progress and learning a few things. I know I will.

Syntheticrhyme...sorry if you didn't need the endorsement, but I was surprised at all the negativity here in the Warrior forum of all places. Kick some a$$

thanks for the great support

Originally Posted by Shoaib

Hey SyntheticRhyme.. I've been following this thread since it originally started, very interesting.

It seems like you have a solid grasp on what you are doing and how you are going to go about it. It's not one of those dreamer threads where someone says "I'm gonna do _________ by sitting on my a**".

You've actually already put your stuff into action. So, that's refreshing, and I have no doubt that you'll be able to accomplish your goal.

You're already starting to brand yourself by actually responding to all the negative posts in this thread in a polite and professional manner.

All you need is some good press. My one suggestion would be though to work on getting some higher resolution videos on your YouTube channel, and better audio quality as well.

Oh, and your baby is oh-so-cute!!

Good luck.

thanks so much Shoaib. For the videos I'm mainly using my built in webcam for the most part (ocassionally, I'll hook up an old camera when I'm playing music for a video. I think for my purposes it's ok (the audio was low on that first video, but on subsequent ones it is at a better level)

Originally Posted by Okane

Sure, it's possible.

You'll need more than just music... you need killer marketing.

Google "Bob Baker".

And... activate comments on your website (I suppose it's a blog, right?)

You need to connect with people, stir up controversy (like you did here already), build a fan base.

Haven't watched all your videos, but... did not find one with your music, so far? Is there one?

Your approach of helping others make better music by giving tips about music production on your blog will help you A LOT to accomplish your goal. Read my sig...

Marc

Thanks Marc for the tip. I still have to add a few things to my blog. I Fhave not been much of a blogger in the past. As for the music, there is just little samples of the creative process (all fairly rough as I'm documenting everything). I'm hoping to have the first song completed this week.

Originally Posted by warrior82

good luck

Originally Posted by mathiaslebesby

It's possible to do this. Go for it!

How do you get professional results when you are recording the music?

Hi Mathias, for instruments, I'm mainly using virtual instruments played through a keyboard (you can get all the sounds you want this way and they sound great, piano, drums, bass etc). The key is to know how to mix the song using proper technique (this is my strength). Many people that are watching me document everything are interested in the technical aspects. Most people belive that you have to spend thousands on a professional studio, and I'm showing everyone that that is not necessarily the case.

Originally Posted by lillian2444

What a great idea! If you really want to achieve this, then why dont you compile your album, and then sell for a 1 dollar download. Hope you see where I'm coming from.

Wish you the best of luck, and have also bookmarked you site to see how you are getting on.

Thanks Lillian. Pricing I have not worked out yet but I will look for some type of incentive pricing initially to get the ball rolling

Thanks
1 reply

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Steven Wagenheim

16 years ago

Okay, let me inject a little bit of reality here. And no, I am not a hater and
I am not a cynic. In fact, I'm a songwriter with 25 years of experience and
2 songs published.

Susan Boyle.

You all know who she is. She's probably the biggest phenom of 2009. Her
YouTube video got 85 million views.

Do you know how many copies of "I Dreamed A Dream" sold in 2009?

610,000.

That was the most sold CD of the year...of every freaking artist on the
planet...and she didn't sell 1 million copies.

I am all for dreaming big. My dream has been to get a Grammy Award
for "Song Of The Year"

It has been my dream since the Grammy Awards were actually worth
watching.

I'm still waiting for my first song to even be recorded.

And let me tell you something...I have real talent.

I'm classically trained, have a minor in music from an accredited college.

I've studied the craft of songwriting for 25 years. I've met some of the
biggest names in the business (a long time ago)

What you are attempting to do is beyond imaginable. And while I'll be
the first one in line to cheer you on and throw you a freaking ticker tape
parade, I'd be foolish to bet more than 50 cents that this had even the
remotest possibility of happening.

Here's a suggestion. As a performer (I'm going to assume you are a kick
as performer and have an amazing song up your sleeve) there are some
things you can do that will give you an advantage over a songwriter who
still needs to find a group to record his material.

1. Make the best demo you can. As a performer, you have no choice. If
you're expecting people to buy your product straight off the racks, you
have to have studio quality production. Songwriters don't need to because
they're submitting their demos to publishers first.

2. Turn it into a video. Get a kick ass video made that compliments the
song. This is going to cost you, but it's worth it.

3. After the video is completed, upload it to YouTube and every other
video sharing site you can think of, including MySpace.

4. Go on a mass marketing campaign and build a list of subscribers. Offer
to give them copies of your first single...FREE. If they like it, they'll likely
buy the album. Yes, you're going to have to put together at least a dozen
songs.

5. Somebody suggested J-MO's YouTube system. Definitely. This will help
you spread the word.

6. Press releases to ALL the major press release sites WHEN you're ready
to sell this thing.

7. Contact every music site on the Internet personally and ask them if
they'd like to be affiliates for your CD. Yes, offer an affiliate program and
give them 70% commission. On a $15 CD you'll still make $5 per sale. If
you make these download only, there is no pressing costs.

8. Get your CD up on Amazon. Offer the single as a FREE download and
hopefully, if they love it enough, they'll buy the album.

If you do all the above, you may actually sell 1,000 units a month and
hit 12,000 by the end of the year. Maybe 24,000 if you do really well.

I know you don't know me from Adam, but there is nobody who pulls more
for the underdog than I do.

If you need material to perform, I've got some kick ass tunes. We can
work something out that will be beneficial to us both.

Or you can just tackle this on your own if you think you have the talent
and the material.

Either way, I wish you nothing but the best.

I truly mean that.

[ 1 ] Thanks
2 replies

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

Okay, let me inject a little bit of reality here. And no, I am not a hater and
I am not a cynic. In fact, I'm a songwriter with 25 years of experience and
2 songs published.

Susan Boyle.

You all know who she is. She's probably the biggest phenom of 2009. Her
YouTube video got 85 million views.

Do you know how many copies of "I Dreamed A Dream" sold in 2009?

610,000.

That was the most sold CD of the year...of every freaking artist on the
planet...and she didn't sell 1 million copies.

I am all for dreaming big. My dream has been to get a Grammy Award
for "Song Of The Year"

It has been my dream since the Grammy Awards were actually worth
watching.

I'm still waiting for my first song to even be recorded.

And let me tell you something...I have real talent.

I'm classically trained, have a minor in music from an accredited college.

I've studied the craft of songwriting for 25 years. I've met some of the
biggest names in the business (a long time ago)

What you are attempting to do is beyond imaginable. And while I'll be
the first one in line to cheer you on and throw you a freaking ticker tape
parade, I'd be foolish to bet more than 50 cents that this had even the
remotest possibility of happening.

Here's a suggestion. As a performer (I'm going to assume you are a kick
as performer and have an amazing song up your sleeve) there are some
things you can do that will give you an advantage over a songwriter who
still needs to find a group to record his material.

1. Make the best demo you can. As a performer, you have no choice. If
you're expecting people to buy your product straight off the racks, you
have to have studio quality production. Songwriters don't need to because
they're submitting their demos to publishers first.

2. Turn it into a video. Get a kick ass video made that compliments the
song. This is going to cost you, but it's worth it.

3. After the video is completed, upload it to YouTube and every other
video sharing site you can think of, including MySpace.

4. Go on a mass marketing campaign and build a list of subscribers. Offer
to give them copies of your first single...FREE. If they like it, they'll likely
buy the album. Yes, you're going to have to put together at least a dozen
songs.

5. Somebody suggested J-MO's YouTube system. Definitely. This will help
you spread the word.

6. Press releases to ALL the major press release sites WHEN you're ready
to sell this thing.

7. Contact every music site on the Internet personally and ask them if
they'd like to be affiliates for your CD. Yes, offer an affiliate program and
give them 70% commission. On a $15 CD you'll still make $5 per sale. If
you make these download only, there is no pressing costs.

8. Get your CD up on Amazon. Offer the single as a FREE download and
hopefully, if they love it enough, they'll buy the album.

If you do all the above, you may actually sell 1,000 units a month and
hit 12,000 by the end of the year. Maybe 24,000 if you do really well.

I know you don't know me from Adam, but there is nobody who pulls more
for the underdog than I do.

If you need material to perform, I've got some kick ass tunes. We can
work something out that will be beneficial to us both.

Or you can just tackle this on your own if you think you have the talent
and the material.

Either way, I wish you nothing but the best.

I truly mean that.

Thanks for the tips Steven. I just wanted to correct one point, Susan Boyle's cd sold 3.1 million copies Taylor Swift and Susan Boyle Top 2009 Album Sales
As for the other things you mentioned, many of them I will be employing. I'm still working out some type of incentive to build a list. As for offering an affiliate program, I have not thought about it but it sounds like it can work (especially if I get into merchandise at a later date).

As for the music business, I believe you may be thinking a little conventional. Yes, the recession plus the fact that piracy has trumpled many major labels does look very grim for anyone releasing music. But the way I look at things, I'm trying to go about the whole thing a different way.

I would recommend that if you have a passion about songwriting, you've waited long enough to make things happen. You should team up with a great singer, record a cd and release it just as I will do mine. I've seen so many talented people going by the wayside as a result of hoping to aquire a recording/publishing deal. For this particular album, I will be writing all my own material (as I am documenting the entire process). Once everything is complete, maybe we can team up to do a song together

Thanks
2 replies

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butters

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

As for the music business, I believe you may be thinking a little conventional. Yes, the recession plus the fact that piracy has trumpled many major labels does look very grim for anyone releasing music. But the way I look at things, I'm trying to go about the whole thing a different way.

Enlighten me, what makes you different from everybody else.

Do you have any previous examples of music?

Thanks
1 reply

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Doug Pretorius 16 years ago

When I read the title for this thread I thought your goal was to sell 1 million copies of other people's music (as an affiliate) which would be pretty cool too Anyway, good luck with your endeavor!
- Thanks
- 1 reply
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- ZhaoAnXin 16 years ago
  
  I'm not a musician, and in my business I am going for a much slower build, but if I were trying to accomplish this goal here are a couple of things I would try and do:
  
  1. Get heavily involved in social media
  Ramp up as fast as possible. Use automation where possible (for twitter, facebook, myspace, and maybe others)
  
  2. Build a community around your music
  Register a domain, set up a blog, and pay someone from the warrior forum to make a nice custom template for you.
  
  If you spend 3 hours each day working on your music, publish the results on your blog. Just a video or a sound file.
  
  Set up a polling plugin for wordpress and do A/B split tests with different versions of hooks, melodies, lyrics, etc. and ask the people who might actually be interested what they like more.
  
  Create a sense of inclusion so that when you're actually ready to start selling the thing, you've at least got a ready made audience of people who feel like they've participated in the creative process with you.
  
  If someone who was doing music I was interested in did something like that, I would be much more likely, especially after a few months of following it and actively or passively participating in the creative aspects of something to purchase it. (not saying that you would have people actually contribute anything other than opinions on a/b split tests with a simple poll, but I think that might help).
  
  3. Identify and court the thought leaders in your genre
  If you're going for a 1 year project, with a project release date of maybe 4-6 months out, I would compile a list of the top 100 bloggers, tweeters, youtube video makers, or whatever related to your genre of music, or other niches which would be verticals.
  
  Start leaving them comments and try to add some value to them. Link to them whenever they do something you think is interesting. Not just from your blog. From you twitter account, myspace and facebook status updates, etc. Anybody doing this stuff in 2010 has some kind of analytics in place and they'll see where the traffic is coming from without you having to tell them.
  
  As time goes on, narrow this list down to the 25 most responsive. Then the 20 most responsive, and so on.
  
  Engage them anyway you can and provide as much value as you can to anybody who has the attention of your genre and is willing to give you the time of day.
  
  When you're a month or so out from being ready to sell your stuff, intensify this to the nth degree.
  
  Send them physical samples (it's like a buck and a half on your end to have a cd produced) . . .
  
  Offer to create content for them. If someone has an influential blog or twitter account about sound engineering for the whatever genre, offer them the best possible article/video/whatever that you could produce on the subject or anything else you know about.
  
  Ask them to participate in pre-launch build up and hype.
  
  Offer them initial exclusivity on affiliate promotions.
  
  Stuff like that . . .
  
  I have no idea if you can sell a million copies of a record or not, but I whenever I feel depressed about my own life I go to youtube and start watching videos of these fans of ICP and realize that a bunch of white dudes in clown makeup can create a whole subculture around complete retardedness and make serious money, own their own masters and their own label, etc. and move 100k units of any piece of crap they want to put out because they built that community themselves.
  
  EDIT: I think 33centsaday raised an interesting point.
  
  If you build up a big enough list, you might not sell 1million of your own cd's, but you might sell 100k. Over the course of a year if you can make decent recommendations on other artists that your followers would be interested in - I bet it's possible to net a million gross album sales. 100k from your and 50k a piece from 20 other artists or bands.
  
  And if you did that you would make some decent money as an affiliate, and you would have MAJOR leverage after a year.
  
  [ 1 ] Thanks
  
  Signature
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Steven Wagenheim 16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Once everything is complete, maybe we can team up to do a song together

I'd like that. I think it would be fun.
- Thanks
Signature

My Soundcloud Music Channel
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discrat

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

And let me tell you something...I have real talent.

I'm classically trained, have a minor in music from an accredited college.

I've studied the craft of songwriting for 25 years. I've met some of the
biggest names in the business (a long time ago)

Talent ?? My advice based on your Youtube music video is please dont give up your daytime job anytime soon and I dont think Tim McGraw will be shaking in his Cowboy boots anytime soon either !!

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

Nothing to see here including a Sig so just move on :)

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Steven Wagenheim 16 years ago

Originally Posted by discrat

dont give up your daytime job anytime soon

Don't have a daytime job, but thanks anyway.
- Thanks
Signature

My Soundcloud Music Channel
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Olivier Vasquez

16 years ago

Good Luck Bro- I've tried selling a much
much much much smaller amount of records
online with no success...

Well, I'm much more seasoned than I
was when I tried it-

So I wish you great LUCK... And when you
wanna market your Launch- Holla at me...

Best of LUCK Bro...

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Olivier Vasquez

Good Luck Bro- I've tried selling a much
much much much smaller amount of records
online with no success...

Well, I'm much more seasoned than I
was when I tried it-

So I wish you great LUCK... And when you
wanna market your Launch- Holla at me...

Best of LUCK Bro...

Thanks so much. I also wanted to update everyone, I finallly completed my first single called "The Boardwalk" You can hear it on my website Sell 1 Million Records (top right hand corner)
It is an 80's inspired song (fun, happy and melodic reminiscent of the summer)

Thanks
2 replies

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Tom E

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Thanks so much. I also wanted to update everyone, I finallly completed my first single called "The Boardwalk" You can hear it on my website Sell 1 Million Records (top right hand corner)
It is an 80's inspired song (fun, happy and melodic reminiscent of the summer)

There's no mp3 there, just a link to your paypal $1 sale of it, without a preview button.

Thanks

Signature

5000+ Sold! Product Of The YEAR! From Newbie To IM Expert Without Doing The Actual Work

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Steven Wagenheim

16 years ago

Originally Posted by syntheticrhyme

Thanks so much. I also wanted to update everyone, I finallly completed my first single called "The Boardwalk" You can hear it on my website Sell 1 Million Records (top right hand corner)
It is an 80's inspired song (fun, happy and melodic reminiscent of the summer)

I listened to the sample of your song.

Here is my unbiased opinion, for whatever it's worth.

The rhythm track is simple but solid. It's keeping a nice steady beat and
that's important. Your beat is the glue that keeps the song together.

Your voice, IMO, is actually commercial sounding. It's not particularly
powerful like a Daughtry or anything like that, but for this type of song,
it doesn't have to be. You can carry the tune well enough.

The hook, which is ultimately what's going to get people to buy this
thing, is so-so. It isn't bad. It's actually better than I expected. But it's
not drop dead killer either. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a 7.

The feel of the song seems a bit retro, but hell, all my songs are retro
so I'm not one to talk. And while you're not trying to appeal to a major
label to sign you (good thing, because with this song, it won't happen)
there is a decent chance that there is enough of an audience out there
who is "into" this sound who just might buy it.

Without hearing the whole song, I can't comment on whether or not
some publisher or A&R guy might be knocking your doors down, though
most know from the first minute in anyway, but what I heard wasn't bad.

You're certainly a much better singer than I am, and you kept the
arrangement simple (something I've yet to learn how to do

) so you've
given yourself a chance.

The rest is going to come down to marketing. Get enough eyeballs to the
site and you just might make some sales.

I wish you luck with it.

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

I listened to the sample of your song.

Here is my unbiased opinion, for whatever it's worth.

The rhythm track is simple but solid. It's keeping a nice steady beat and
that's important. Your beat is the glue that keeps the song together.

Your voice, IMO, is actually commercial sounding. It's not particularly
powerful like a Daughtry or anything like that, but for this type of song,
it doesn't have to be. You can carry the tune well enough.

The hook, which is ultimately what's going to get people to buy this
thing, is so-so. It isn't bad. It's actually better than I expected. But it's
not drop dead killer either. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a 7.

The feel of the song seems a bit retro, but hell, all my songs are retro
so I'm not one to talk. And while you're not trying to appeal to a major
label to sign you (good thing, because with this song, it won't happen)
there is a decent chance that there is enough of an audience out there
who is "into" this sound who just might buy it.

Without hearing the whole song, I can't comment on whether or not
some publisher or A&R guy might be knocking your doors down, though
most know from the first minute in anyway, but what I heard wasn't bad.

You're certainly a much better singer than I am, and you kept the
arrangement simple (something I've yet to learn how to do

) so you've
given yourself a chance.

The rest is going to come down to marketing. Get enough eyeballs to the
site and you just might make some sales.

I wish you luck with it.

Thanks Steven, I appreciate the advice. I think the song suits the market I'm targeting right now. It's basically a fun track will hopefully bring back good memories from the 80's for many people. With everything that I'm doing, I'm not indending in any way on getting signed by a record label. Right now I'm just continuing to build a base as people have been very supportive (i'm selling a few downloads daily as a pre release off my blog)

Thanks

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Patrick Judge

16 years ago

Yes go for it, I been making some old school tunes myself, I love the old school dance music, sure you kick starting your dream again..

Nothing wrong with that

Pat

Thanks
1 reply

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syntheticrhyme

16 years ago

Originally Posted by gr8tocre8

There's no mp3 there, just a link to your paypal $1 sale of it, without a preview button.

Thanks for letting me know. I put a sample below the heading on the front page Sell 1 Million Records Let me know in case that doesn't work. For the top right corner, i used code that plays it using microsoft active x (i'm not to technicall in this department, but I guess I'll have to look into a better flash player

Originally Posted by RefundHost

If you can do this ...

...you'll be able to charge a $250K
consulting fee to all the major record
companies and $25,000 to all the
independents. lol

lol,

Originally Posted by Sumit Menon

Yeah.. I'm gonna steal that!

To the OP. Go For It! You might not make it... You might only sell 100 copies but at least you'll have 100 new fans and know that you can sing.

Sumit.

thanks Sumit

Originally Posted by Patrick Judge

Yes go for it, I been making some old school tunes myself, I love the old school dance music, sure you kick starting your dream again..

Nothing wrong with that

Pat

thanks Pat. I love the old school pop and dance, it brings back a lot of memories

Thanks
1 reply

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butters 16 years ago

It doesn't sound all that bad, better then me :p. But... You sound like the average person, from what I can tell so far. Don't go high pitch, it sounds bad .
- Thanks
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