No matter how mind-blowing your solos or how goosebump-inducing your vocals, making it in music is often about who you know. So, how do you network effectively without looking like a total schmoozer?
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Know Your Crew
The best place to start, when it comes to networking in the music industry, is undoubtedly in your local scene where you can meet other musicians who are following the same path and you, but who might just be a little further down the road than you are. It’s never a bad idea to head off to local shows, introduce yourself, and ask about their music. Sure, it can feel awkward at first, but treat it like part of your training montage, and take a genuine interest in what they have to say because, who knows, a friendly bassist could lead you to a future bandmate, a booking agent, or someone who can help refine your sound.
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Spark the Conversation
In a packed green room, don’t just stare at the floor like it’s your only friend. Ask about someone’s gear or mention a recent performance you loved. Musicians adore talking shop, so genuine curiosity is your best move. If you’re bold, share a funny mishap from a past gig—it’s a great icebreaker. Just skip the fake flattery. Authenticity trumps dishing out random compliments you don’t mean.
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Harness the Power of Social
In the era of endless scrolling, social media is your virtual backstage pass. Follow local venues, fellow artists, and industry insiders, then chime in with supportive comments. The goal isn’t to spam them with your latest track (seriously, don’t), but to build real relationships. Keep your feed interesting: post rehearsal snippets, behind-the-scenes peeks, or even a live Q&A. You’d be surprised how many connections can bloom from one thoughtful post.
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Collaboration Nation
Teaming up with other musicians isn’t just fun—it’s a smart way to grow your reach. Whether you’re co-writing a tune, jumping on a remix, or hosting a joint gig, collaborations expose you to new audiences and creative sparks. Even if you’re a solo act, try jam sessions with a drummer or invite a violinist for dramatic flair. Collaboration is networking in action, and it often leads to unforgettable musical moments.
Along the way, you might meet someone who’s seen it all—a mentor of sorts— someone like music industry legend Clive Davis. Instead of just gawking in awe, ask questions and soak up their wisdom. Their tales can help you dodge rookie mistakes and keep your sanity intact. And who knows? They might introduce you to new contacts, fresh opportunities, or that missing piece you never knew you needed.
You might think that being successful as a musician is all about having talent and showing it off, and that might be the case, but you know what? Getting out there, meeting people, taking an interest in them, and showing them what you’ve got is also vital, so please, whatever else you do on the road to success, make those connections!
