Your Name/Your Band's Name
Adam James Cooper
Tell Us About Your Music (Genres, Influences, etc)
I am a songwriter heavily influenced by the emerging young UK folk scene. I write for an ever changing ensemble of fantastic local musicians and write the stories of my life into songs in the hope that I can share these experiences with the people who listen.
Your Website
http://adamjamescooper.bandcamp.com/
Social Networking Profile Links
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adam-James-Cooper/137718917660?ref=ts
How Do You Promote Your Music?
I have played hundreds of gigs up and down the country but mostly in my home-town of Newcastle.
I have used social networking, local media (i.e. radio and magazines), free promo releases, house concerts, flyers and posters.
It is hard to pin down what has worked best. My success has been minimal, however my small fan base has been built up through my constant gigging. People in the area seem to know my name now.
I appeared on a BBC TV show once which boosted my myspace plays to about 100-200 a day for a few weeks, but then things returned to normal. I'm not very good at self promotion.
Do You Release Your Own Music? Do You Want a Deal?
I released my debut album December 2009. Before that I had released a 6 track EP. Both of these projects I produced myself; they were entirely DIY. I have also recorded and released several live promotional EP's for free download.
I want to be able to make a living out of writing and playing my music. Whether that involves doing it myself, or signing to a deal, I don't care much. I am aware of the dangers of the record deal, but I don't know anyone who has made a career from being a performing musician without signing to a label.
Tips and Tricks
- Record as much as possible. Recording is a skill and an art, to be learned the same as an instrument.
- Make the most of local media, such as magazines and student radios. They can really help increase your fan base.
