Musicians' FAQ: The Record Label Demo Drop-In

Tuesday October 28, 2008

They're your dream label. You're positive they would love your music. And you know where they live. Is it OK to swing by label HQ bearing demos?

This question turns up in my inbox a lot, and while I completely understand where you're coming from, I have to tell you, the record label drop in is rarely a good idea. The reaction you're met with may range from polite dismissal to uncomfortable feet shuffling to total outrage, but you're not likely to be invited in for a nice cup of tea while the label staff pops your demo on the hi-fi and draws you up a contract.

Although I heartily encourage some creative thinking and a "if you don't ask, you don't get" mentality when you're kicking off a new music project, there are some tactics that cross the line a bit, and in almost every instance, this is one of them. I say, "almost every instance," because you CAN find the rare label out there that invites visits, but assuming your knock on the door will be welcome is a dangerous game. Your best bet is to stick to the label's demo policy - it is in place to help them deal with your demo in the most efficient way for them, even if it feels like it's there to put distance between you and the people whose help you want. Learn more about why dropping off your demo in person might not be the best idea.