Ask Ms. Uduak: How do I Promote Myself as an Unsigned Artist?

“Good day Ms Uduak,

I know you must have heard and read these lines a lot but the truth must surely be spoken.

You are great, a rare gem. Your articles kill me and resurrect me. But you know what about you that marvels me, awes me and leaves me in a state of tearful hypnosism? Your spirit.

You answer questions and kind of guide people into their dreams, people you don’t really know. I think you have been an answer to so many. . .

I have a situation. I’m an upcoming artiste, I’ve written really great songs but I don’t know the next step to take. I could send my demo to labels but then there is the issue of labels not signing new acts as a result of piracy and the internet.

But do you really think that’s true here in Nigeria? Or do you think that with real tight songs which a lot of people has attested to its ability to sell, I could get signed?

Again if I decide to stay unsigned, how do I get my music out there in the market?

I know you might be a very busy lady but you could answer me, and that will be added to the list of the dreams you’ve helped mould. Thanks Ms Ladybrille.”

~Gozie/Nigeria

Hi Gozie,

Thank you for the compliment. Your words are very kind. To answer your questions, please read the feature on “How Do I Get Signed to a Record Label” and follow the part of sending your demo to labels. In addition, regardless of internet or piracy issues, if you are a strong artist and marketable, record labels WANT YOU!  So do not stop pushing based on what you hear or read out there. Ultimately you have the final say so on where your music career goes. So don’t be afraid to take the reins and control your music career.

Specifically on how to get your music out there if you are unsigned, there are two things to do. One read the article on “5 Tips to get Media Buzz for your Music.” In addition, I would put some thought into contacting Nigerian artists whose experiences parallel yours to seek mentorship or just ask questions. Examples of these artists, all of whom have been featured on Not Just Ok.com, are: 1) Sauce Kid. Yes he is a “controversial” artist but truth be told, he has been hustling very hard even before signing with Obi Asika’s Storm Record. I think he would be an excellent person to provide invaluable feedback on the differences between signed and unsigned since he has experienced both; 2) Obiora Obiwon  is an artist who could not get any label to sign him, despite his relatively strong musical abilities. He had to go at it alone and today is by national and international standards considered successful. For the ladies, I would contact Zara who is currently signed to Alapomeji records. While Zara is yet to release an album, the point is, she was once unsigned and did the marketing and promotions to get attention to the point of getting signed. Finally, NAIRA would be a good person to also contact. She basically runs her own outfit and of late just signed on to Igwe & Co.

HOW TO MAKE CONTACT THE RIGHT WAY
Do NOT say, “Hi I am artist with great music can you hook me up and promote my work.” Horrible and will get the “delete” button.
DO say,

“Dear Zara/Naira/Obiwon/Saucekid etc,

My name is Gozie. I am an emerging artist who has been making music since ___. I am currently unsigned and looking to get signed. I, however, felt before I take such a step, I should make contact and obtain solid advice from colleagues who have traveled the road I am currently on/about to take. My careful research shows you are one such artist. (please do your research on the artist)

Would you be so kind as to offer me advice to the following specific questions:
List your questions (not more than three)

Thank you for taking time out of your very busy schedule to answer my questions. Your time and feedback is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Gozie

Hope you see the difference. You give them the opportunity to give back (which many artists want to do) and if they don’t that is on their conscience. In addition, you talk to them as a “colleague” although  they are far ahead and experienced, and finally you don’t put a burden on them. Finally, you leave the door open and let them offer advice and if they feel so inclined, they can invite you to return for more advice, which can turn into a mentor-mentee relationship. I find today’s generation of Naija artists do want to give back. It is also in the industry’s best interest so we don’t have everyone dropping an album without the know how of quality music.

Now go make it happen!

Cheers,
Uduak

Ms. Uduak Oduok is the President & CEO of Ladybrille Media Group, Inc. She is also an attorney, fashion model and journalist. She has over seventeen years combined experience in the fashion and entertainment industries and will be answering your NOT JUST OK basic Business of Music Questions. Have a question for Ms. Uduak? Send an email to uduak@ladybrille.com with the subject heading “Not Just Ok Music Question.”