Research, Call, Follow Through

• 1). Schedule a few hours when you can do some Internet research and find out who the producers are that you would like to contact. The music industry is experiencing a tremendous shake-up. Today's successful producers may be gone tomorrow. And thanks to the Internet, one never knows where the next young, hot producer will emerge. Look up your favorite albums on iTunes or sites such as Amazon.com or Allmusic.com. On the sites you will find credits for the albums, including who produced the music. Make careful notes and be prepared to remember their names.
  
  
• 2
  
  
  Do your homework. Have a clear understanding of the music industry before you contact any producers. Successful producers love music and are passionate about the industry in which they work. They want to be able to have a conversation with someone who can "talk shop." Have some working knowledge of what producers do and how they relate to recording artists. Understand the industry and have some topical conversation starters in mind.
  
  
• 3). Before making any calls, it's important to know why you want to contact music producers. Are you looking for an assistant job? Are you looking to submit demos in hopes of landing a record deal? Have a clear, obtainable goal for each call. Don't ask for a million-dollar recording contract on a cold call.
  
  
• 4). Once you have created a list of producers along with contact information, start calling. It's important to note that when cold calling, establishing rapport at the opening of a conversation is key. Try finding something in common with that person. If the person lives in Los Angeles, for example, you might want to ask if they're a Laker fan. You'll most likely speak to an assistant. Nearly all successful producers have "gate keepers" that make them difficult to contact. Be kind and patient with the assistant. Be truthful with regard to why you are calling.
  
  
• 5). Follow up with every contact. Once you have established rapport and obtained your goal for the phone call, it's important to follow up. If the assistant has authorized you sending in a demo, do it. If you have made an appointment to drop by the studio, show up. Always follow up with every contact you make, and keep good notes on each call or appointment.
  
  
• 6
  
  
  Frequent spots where producers work or hang out. Successful producers are usually found in the studios working with artists. But when they can, they go out to clubs or live performances where music can be heard. Find the hot spots in your area by doing some online research. Check Citisearch.com or Livenation.com for concert news or other live-performance opportunities in your area.
  
  
• 7). Be open to new media. The Internet has revolutionized the music industry. Thanks to Facebook, MySpace and other social-networking sites, successful independent musicians are popping up all over the world. Always be on the lookout for breakout websites, distribution models or technologies that will help shape how producers make music.