How to find a record label that will sign you?

[Robert Anthony Quevedo Sanchez]

hi all so i am a singer that is trying to get record contract but i really can't write songs but i do have a great voice so i need help

[Ron]

It takes talent, marketability and a good bit of luck to get signed. Even then, you are not guaranteed fame and success. Here are a few tips to getting your band or just you noticed, and get signed, by a record label.

Go to the gym. Image is everything, especially if you want to be noticed by the major labels. It's very rare that an overweight or unkempt looking singer will be courted by major labels..

Avoid drugs. Word travels and artists with drug problems usually cost more money than artists without issues. Labels want a good return on their investment these days, not headaches.

Coordinate the style of everyone in the group. Arrange a wardrobe for shows that make your group look like a marketable group. If you're a solo artist, make yourself look as trendy and fashionable as possible. Determine what clothes or fashion style suit you best and go with that.

Get professional photos and video made. You want to have good headshots (or band shots) that are done by a reputable photographer. You also need a video that is ideally of your best live performance.

Make a press pack. This consists of a photo, your demo (printed) and a biography of the group (or yourself, if a solo artist). The pack should also include interesting info about the members, press clippings (if applicable) and photos of live shows.

Practice regularly. You need to be well rehearsed and ready to play at the drop of a hat. Set aside time for daily rehearsals or to focus on writing new material.

Make good music. Image is nothing without songs which are well-written and that can be marketed. Write as many songs as you can and then whittle it down to the best 10 to 12 songs for live performance.

Assess the current music scene. If dance pop acts are all the range, your metal band isn't likely to be courted by major record labels. While you shouldn't adopt a style of music just to increase already slim odds, you should try to incorporate current sounds into your performances and demos.

Develop your songs on stage. Use the audience to gauge what works and what doesn't. It will be a good representation of how others perceive your sound. Your favorite song may flop with the crowd, and vice-versa.

Record an amazing sounding demo. You should record your demo with a great local producer and pay to have a professional label made with your contact information. Don't send our demos of cover songs. This should be your best sounding original music. Print multiple copies and set some aside for selling at shows.

Start booking shows locally. You want to play one to two shows a month in the very beginning until you've built up a steady, local following. Once you do this, you can increase your shows locally to perhaps weekly and then branch out into more regional shows.

Market your shows using social media. Use Twitter, Facebook, Artistir, Reverbnation, MajorContacts.com, Songkick, or Myspace to announce shows, release snippets of your demo and keep in touch with new fans.

Perform at local music stores. If people may not come out to see you specifically, bring your music to a space where it can't be ignored like a local music store. Play with other bands and have everyone bring all their friends. This is often the most effective way to develop a following initially.

Start looking for an experienced manager. An experienced manager will probably not be your best friend, advisor and musical coach, but someone who understands the ins and outs of the industry. This person may also be able to help you book gigs and secure an entertainment attorney when the time comes.

Reach out to record labels. Find the address of any record label your music would be at home with and send them a press pack. Make sure they accept unsolicited demos.