Modern Folk » biz http://basecampmusic.com/blog A DIY folk singer makes music his full-time gig Tue, 01 Dec 2009 01:25:30 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.4 en hourly 1 16 Things an Aspiring DIY Musician Has Gotta Know How To Do (That Have Nothing To Do with Playing Music) http://basecampmusic.com/blog/2009/08/16-things-an-aspiring-diy-musician-has-gotta-know-how-to-do-that-have-nothing-to-do-with-music/ http://basecampmusic.com/blog/2009/08/16-things-an-aspiring-diy-musician-has-gotta-know-how-to-do-that-have-nothing-to-do-with-music/#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2009 03:54:07 +0000 admin http://basecampmusic.com/blog/?p=7 Many music career paths have been premised on the hope that one day a label would take over, with their understanding of the channels and methods, their knowledge of where and what to do to–and of course the money–to broadcast me to an awaiting public. Times have changed and so must our goals. And that’s a good thing. Now I have the choice and responsibility to put my fate in my own hands. As an artist, it really doesn’t make sense to me any other way.

But now since I’m not focused on being discovered, my skillset needs to change. Like an aspiring chef needs learns to run a restaurant (see previous post), I’ll need to act as my own label, creative and marketing firm. A short list of things an aspiring DIY musician has gotta know how to do, that have nothing to do with playing music:

  • Code basic HTML (yes You)
  • Optimize your site’s search engine results
  • Create and edit video
  • Perform basic graphic design
  • Operate PhotoShop
  • Manage physical inventory
  • Do social networking/blogging
  • Not worry that everyone likes you
  • Write a press release
  • Collect performing rights payments (ok, kinda about music)
  • Understand copyright and intellectual property laws
  • Test and optimize marketing communications (e.g., A/B testing of emails, offers, etc)
  • Optimize online purchasing (make it dead-stupid-easy for fans to buy things online)
  • Manage a sole-proprietorship or LLC (get a biz license, seller’s permit, TM, etc.)
  • Run Quickbooks (or other business accounting tool)
  • Negotiate (everything)
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