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For years now, aspiring musicians and artists thought the only real path to success was getting a record deal with a major label, and for me, as a recording engineer / music producer, I believed  that the only way that I was going to get paid well was to work with an artist who had a recording contract.

The Music Business has Changed, the Internet and low-cost recording technologies have created a profitable do-it-yourself Indie Music movement with endless options for recording, mixing, mastering and music production, which has changed the recording business forever. I regrettably have to report that I have talked to many songwriters, artists, producers and engineers who still believe the only road to widespread acclaim can only be achieved through a record deal.

Word to the wise, “The Music Business has Changed, What about You?”

I know from experience that one of the best ways to approach a career in the music business as a musician who writes and performs original music is to take control, get your hands dirty, and market your music yourself. I know that one of the best ways as an engineer or producer to approach your career is to be flexible and able to go from a commercial recording studio, to a project studio, to a home studio (I call it making house calls). Please understand that no one will ever feel as strongly about your career as you do! Which means you and only you are the best person in the known universe to spread the news about you and your craft. Sure, promoting your own music and or your craft takes a lot of effort, there is no doubt about that, but it’s well worth it. And despite what you may have heard, it can be profitable.

Be sure to keep up with me here at the Ralph Sutton’s Music Production Blog, each week I will write about my experiences, strength, and hope regarding our new Indie Music Business paradigm and all the fun and fascinating aspect of it.