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Oh, everyone seems to be chasing that elusive record deal or are at least trying to figure out how to get signed. Unfortunately, there is no one absolute way to get a record deal. The good news is that if you are truly talented and you work hard then you may eventually get some kind of deal. A lot of people would say that when it comes to how to get signed, timing is everything. Being at the right place at the right time is crucial, it does not always seal the deal.

One surefire way to get noticed is to attract the attention of the notorious Artist and Repertoire people. It is a fact that all labels have Artist and Repertoire departments within the company. They are the scouts of the music industry and they are always looking for bands or artists to invest in and help get signed. Once you have impressed the ever-so sought after Artist and Repertoire man, then they become your liaison meaning they basically oversee everything from songs, to monetary allocation to touring. But when it comes down to it, these are the guys you need on your side.

But that was jumping ahead just a bit. Artist and Repertoire guys usually have some form of mental checklist when they are scouting bands and it probably goes something like this:

1. How strong are this band's songs? Will enough people enjoy them?

2. How is the live performance? Can they get the crowd going? Are they naturals on stage?

3. Do you fit into the genre they are scoping out?

4. Do you have that style and appeal?

5. How is the audience responding to this band?

6. Most importantly, will your music sell to the masses?

You line of attack when approaching Artist and Repertoire needs to be planned out and to the point. Do not appear flustered and unorganied. Give or play your demo and invite them to a gig. Make sure that demo is impeccable because more than likely they are only going to listen to a very tiny portion of it. If they liked it, then they just might show up at the performance. Keep in mind that this gig needs to be a majorly impressive one. Make sure you have a solid fan base there and a good vibe going with the crowd. This is crucial because you not only want to sound good, you want the crowd to be into you as well.

No matter who you are, if you are wanting to know how to get signed or how to get a record deal then take to heart the tips offered above. Artist and Repertoire reps are not the only way to score a record deal but they are most definitely one way. And it is a way worth trying more than once. Do not give up! There are tons of labels out there and even more Artist and Repertoire guys to schmooze so get to work and the first place to start is with an awesome demo!