What is the best way to get a label to listen to your song?

1 Know your target

Before you send your song to any label, you need to do some research and find out which labels are looking for your genre, style, and sound. You can use online platforms like SubmitHub, Sonicbids, or Music Xray to browse through different labels and their preferences, or you can check out their websites and social media accounts to see what kind of artists they have signed and what kind of music they release. You want to pitch your song to a label that is relevant, compatible, and open to new submissions.

2 Make a good impression

Your pitch should be professional, concise, and personalized. You want to catch the label's attention and make them curious about your song, but you don't want to sound desperate, arrogant, or generic. Your pitch should include a brief introduction of yourself and your song, a clear and catchy description of your genre and style, and a link to your song on a streaming platform or a private SoundCloud playlist. You should also mention why you are interested in working with the label and what makes your song stand out from the rest. Avoid sending attachments, long bios, press kits, or multiple songs unless the label asks for them.

3 Follow the guidelines

Every label has its own submission guidelines and preferences, and you should respect them and follow them carefully. Some labels may want you to email them directly, while others may prefer you to use a third-party platform or a submission form on their website. Some labels may have specific requirements for the format, length, or quality of your song, while others may have deadlines, fees, or exclusivity clauses. You should read the guidelines thoroughly and make sure you comply with them before you send your pitch. If you don't follow the guidelines, you risk getting rejected or ignored.

4 Be patient and persistent

Getting a label to listen to your song can take time and patience. Labels receive hundreds or thousands of submissions every week, and they may not have the time or resources to listen to every single one. You may have to wait for weeks or months before you hear back from them, or you may never get a response at all. Don't get discouraged or take it personally if you don't get a reply. Instead, be persistent and follow up with the label after a reasonable period of time, usually between four to six weeks. You can send them a polite and friendly reminder, asking them if they had a chance to listen to your song and if they have any feedback or questions. Don't spam them or harass them, but show them that you are serious and interested.

5 Be open and flexible

Getting a label to listen to your song is only the first step. If you want to get a deal or a collaboration, you need to be open and flexible to their suggestions and feedback. Labels may have different opinions, expectations, and visions for your song, and they may ask you to make some changes, improvements, or compromises. You should be willing to listen to their input and consider their perspective, but you should also be confident and honest about your own goals and values. You don't have to agree with everything they say or do, but you should be respectful and professional.

6 Build relationships

Pitching your song to a label is not just a one-time transaction, but a potential opportunity to build a long-term relationship. You should treat the label as a partner, not a gatekeeper, and show them that you are reliable, respectful, and enthusiastic. You should also network and connect with other artists, producers, managers, and industry professionals who can help you get referrals, recommendations, or introductions to labels. You can use social media, blogs, podcasts, events, or online communities to showcase your work, share your story, and engage with your audience. You never know who might listen to your song and like it enough to pass it on to a label.