There is just too many excuses. Most of them are related to lack of a big, 5-6 digit, budget. Let's break it down together - You do NOT need that kind of a budget to have great work! We did our research around the globe and we'll share some of the things bellow.
When you think you're doing A WHOLE LOT, but yet you are not performing, your music is not selling - sit down, and think. You're doing something/everything wrong. Now... Where do I begin?
I can't afford a whole team of people!
- So what! Big deal! [did you feel the sarcasm in "big deal"?]. All you need for start is a good, well-behaved manager. You can't have someone who can't even speak proper English. Try getting someone with experience. You don't pay your manager, your manager takes aprox. 10-20% of what he makes for you! Keep in mind, managers do not invest. If your manager is not doing a good job, fire him. There's no room for emotions, it's your life/career we're talking about!
I can't afford a multi-platinum producer!
- So what! Multi-platinum producers go from $1,000 and up, with studio time until the song is recorded and mixed/mastered. And we're talking exclusive rights if you're paying cash. Now, on the other side, what about producers on other continents? We are dealing with amazing, madly talented guys from EU, Asia, Africa.., who charge $80 and up, EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS! Add up couple more bucks, and they will mix/master it for you as well. All you need to do is record the vocals. Don't let the price fool you. Go for the diamonds in the rough.
I can't afford a fancy studio!
- So what! You can record in someones basement as long as the equipment is good, and as long as you have a great engineer! You wouldn't believe the music that came out of someones room or basement, that's getting mad views on YouTube at this very moment.
I can't afford a stylist!
- So what! Of course you need to look good, but, be open minded! Open some fashion magazines. Browse online. See what fits you the best. Find something that will be your signature. I'm sure you have female friends who are big on fashion, use their minds!
I can't afford professional design!
- So what! Same as I wrote for producers. Website doesn't necessarily have to cost $2,000! Same thing we did with producers, we did with designers. They don't charge over $400-500 for an awesome website, and they treat you with a logo, couple banners etc. pro bono.
I can't afford all the books to educate myself on the industry!
- So what! One word: BLOGS! Just like this one. YOU NEED TO READ AND RESEARCH! Music industry is changing, it's not waiting for you to adapt! If you're not up to date, like you wait in line for the new iPhone... Someone else is taking your spot!
I can't afford promotion!
- L.O.L. I can't even say "so what". What is the internet for?! Just don't spam. Network, be extra NICE to people. Don't ask them to buy your music. If they like it, they will do it on their own and encourage others to do the same thing.
I can't afford a HQ video!
- Again, L.O.L. First, stop making videos that suck. Same as with the music. Make 3 songs which are hit singles, instead of 30 crappy ones. As far as videos go, oh boy! RESEARCH! We found amazing directors/editors who make the whole thing for less than $2,000. Yup, less than $2,000 and it looks like it's worth at least 10 times more.
So, my dear independent artists. 3 words: NETWORK, RESEARCH, and then WORK.
Be creative. Lack of a big budget doesn't mean you can't do amazing things. Focus and be a perfectionist. Even if you have "connections", it's nothing if you don't have a perfect product to put on the table.
