7 Tips for Artists from deadmau5's Manager
In electronic music, deadmau5 is known around the world for his unique personality and bold creative ideas. And behind deadmau5's success there has always been his manager, Dean Wilson.
Here are Dean Wilson's 7 tips for artists:
1. Make your mark with your own music No god can wave a magic wand and turn you into a star. You have to win over fans with your own music, so they can't wait for your next release.
2. Build a unique brand Once you've shaped your musical identity, the next thing you need is marketing. Just as deadmau5 and i_O have done, you have to find every way to stand out. Everything you do, from your personality to your social media presence, has to reflect your creative vision.
3. Make a plan and carry it out your own way
What will you be doing in five years? Which artists are your peers? Where will you be playing? How will you produce and release your music? If you're starting to ask yourself these questions, you're on the right track!
4. Think carefully before you sign any deal
Signing contracts and deals will be the toughest part of your music career. They can take you to the top or drag you down, and they decide everything: income, production, media, promotion…
A contract has a big impact on your work-life balance. Find yourself a good manager and a good lawyer. 5. Be ready – anything can happen
Artists can meet anywhere, swap ideas and work together – that's how collaborations are born. deadmau5 didn't only meet Kaskade and Rob Swire in the studio, and that's why “Ghost N Stuff”, “I Remember” and “Monophobia” are still timeless tracks today. 6. Be patient Patience isn't easy, but it pays off. You especially need patience when other people don't believe in your music. Stay passionate and make sure you're heading in the right direction. Artists must stick to the plan they've laid out, while the manager has to keep pushing the artist to make music, engage with fans and grow the fan base.
7. Play to your strengths
Every artist has different strengths, and so do you. Joel (deadmau5) is very shy in front of crowds, but people can watch him make new tracks in the studio. That's what he's comfortable with, and we don't need big press conferences to promote his music. Source: VNSound
