The Importance of Networking in The Music Industry

If you want to go places in the music industry, you need to be willing to get out of your comfort zone and network.

It has always has been this way.

You know the phrase, “it's not what you know, it's who you know”

Well, musicians should try to connect with not just other musicians, but other music industry professionals, too.

The best connections can be made by just being out there, being yourself, and, eing personable!


And, you will learn more about the business, and improve their chances of success in the process.

I am going to explain a bit more about each “meeting place” and its significance, why you should be utilising all methods. Then, I will go into details for each a little later.

How Do I Find Connections in The Music Industry?

  • Face-to-face networking events are a great way to meet people and build relationships that could create career opportunities.
  • Online networking platforms like SoundCloud and Bandcamp offer musicians a platform to share their music and collaborate with other creatives.
  • Social media channels like TikTok, Twitter and Instagram. These provide increased exposure for brands and artists who use them intelligently.

But all of this is in vain if you aren't following up with your new friends after initial meetings.

That isn't to say you need to be bugging them, but you do want to engage with them and keep the friendship going organically.

Connections and contact lines can and do die after some time!

Why Is Networking so Important in The Music Industry?

Networking in the music industry is important because it can help you get your foot in the door. It can introduce you to important contacts who could end up bringing you in on future collaborations, events, or, career opportunities.

It's also beneficial for established artists who wish to stay connected with their peers in order to receive feedback on their work or promote upcoming projects.

Having a strong network of professionals can be very beneficial in helping an artist succeed professionally as well as personally.

Building these valuable relationships not only provides access to potential job openings but also brings forth opportunities like additional gigs or even mentorship programs!

How Do I Network as An Artist? Tips for Successful Networking

Being successful at networking doesn’t have to be complicated – it simply requires some preparation and basic communication skills .

Here are some tips for effective networking:

  • Prepare an elevator pitch – this should concisely explain who you are and what your work entails in under 60 seconds.
  • Print multiple copies of business cards with all contact information on them.
  • Research any conventions or conferences you plan on attending before going so you know who/what you’ll be looking out for.
  • Show genuine interest in conversations – be curious & ask lots of questions.
  • Follow up after meeting potential contacts through email or social media outlets like LinkedIn & Facebook.

Face-to-face Networking Events

Attending face-to-face music industry networking events such as concerts or conferences allow musicians to connect with professionals in person.

This gives them the opportunity to introduce themselves, exchange business cards, discuss relevant topics about their music, and maybe even establish meaningful relationships that could lead somewhere down the line!

Additionally being prepared with an elevator pitch (or having business cards handy) will greatly increase chances of leaving a lasting impression on potential contacts during brief interactions too!

Benefits from Attending Conferences and Events

Conferences and music events provide invaluable benefits for any musician looking forward towards progressing within their field – not only do they offer direct chances at making new connections but they also provide access to various resources covering anything from technical guidance & production tips all the way towards artist rights & marketing strategies– all which lead towards developing competencies necessary within today’s competitive environment.

Online Networking Platforms

Online platforms such as Soundcloud & Bandcamp not only offer exposure directly through fan base sharing capabilities but also indirectly by collaboration opportunities (with same genre peers); both avenues combined prove invaluable when attempting global reach– leading towards renown within niche fields like EDM Dance Music etcetera!

Social media outlets aren't left behind either due much needed brand recognition come packaged alongside here too– though patience should always be applied here too before jumping straight into requests for favors!

What to Do After Meeting Contacts

After making initial contact , there are several things a musician should ensure they do: sending follow up emails mentioning topics discussed during conversation; checking out new contacts' work after meeting them so if something comes up related you know whats going on; connecting via social media where possible etcetera – this helps keep those connections alive!

Following up is key– whether it be through email or social media outlets like LinkedIn & Facebook; send short messages reiterating conversation topics discussed during initial encounter so individuals remember who you were speaking about earlier – additionally check out any new contacts works afterwards too just incase something comes up that requires knowledge prior of what was initially talked about thus keeping connections alive!.

Lastly connecting via social media provides yet another avenue whereby conversations can continue without having physical meet ups at each stage– though patience should always be applied here too before jumping straight into requests for favors!

About Author

Arielle P

Arielle P

Songwriter | Music Producer | Engineer.

With a background in music production and a strong passion for education, Arielle is dedicated to helping emerging artists navigate the music industry. She has worked with a diverse range of artists, from indie rock bands to well-known hip-hop and grime artists. Arielle's unique approach to teaching focuses on empowering artists to take control of their brand, ensuring they retain creative ownership throughout their journey. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new sounds in her home studio and sharing her insights through music production tutorials and workshops.

📧 Email Arielle