Networking Methods for Songwriters
Let’s be real: your relationships are as important as your talent. As the saying goes, its about who you know! So how do you as a songwriter break into the networking game and develop key relationships! Let’s discuss.
Reach out to your PRO representative. All songwriters need performing rights organizations like BMI, SESAC, and ASCAP to help them collect their royalties. The music industry is funny like that. Each fo these organizations has representatives dedicated to helping new talent find connections with writers, producers, artists, managers, lawyers, agents, etc. Send an e-mail to a representative of your PRO today to get together and discuss your goals and how they might help you moving forward.
Join one of my writing retreats. My writing retreats are full of songwriters looking to build community with other writers. There are a few hundred folks who have been through my program and many of them work with each other on a regularly basis. Attending writing retreats puts you into direct contact with important creative communities.
Attend live shows. Live shows -especially in music capitals - are frequented by other creatives and music business professionals. Grab a drink and open conversations with the folks you see around you. You’re sure to bump shoulders with the exact types of folks you want to meet - creatives, lawyers, managers, etc.
The Tit-For-Tat Method. Look, we all have friends who write songs who work with folks we wish we knew! It is likely that your songwriter friends want to meet someone in your network as well. Don’t hesitate to ask your friends for intros, but do so by offering them an introduction in return! You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.
Cold e-mails to publishers. Look, a cold e-mail can backfire easily so make sure that when you send one it is concise and includes links to no more than three excellent songs. Publishers listen through what they’re sent - its their job. If they like what they hear they’ll reach back out! If not, no worries they might just forget they ever got something in their inbox (their work volume is insane).
Instagram DM’s are a great way forward especially if you’re interested in an act who’s indie. When you hear something you like reach out to someone via DM’s and compliment them. If you really want to meet them, ask to take them to coffee - everybody loves a free treat.
