stayc main image

David Guetta: The DJ Who Transformed Electronic Dance Music

June 20, 2024

David Guetta, born Pierre David Guetta on November 7, 1967, in Paris, France, is a name that resonates deeply within the world of electronic dance music (EDM). Over the past two decades, he has...

Read more
stayc main image

The Ghostwriting Debate in Music: How Widespread Is It and Should We Care?

June 20, 2024

The world of music has always been shrouded in a certain level of mystery and allure, but the recent spat between Meek Mill and Drake has brought a longstanding issue back into the spotlight...

Read more
stayc main image

Simon Cowell regrets not owning One Direction’s name, will create new boy band

June 20, 2024

Simon Cowell has expressed hesitation about a potential One Direction reunion, revealing his regret over not taking "ownership" of the boy band’s name. In a candid interview with The Diary of a CEO...

Read more
stayc main image

Jon Bon Jovi Talks Bouncing Back From Vocal Cord Surgery, ‘Forever’ Album and Why Band’s Songs Will ‘Outlive Us’

June 20, 2024

Jon Bon Jovi wasn’t sure if his band would ever record another album. The Jersey rock icon, whose raspy vocals lifted his eponymous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band to global superstardom in the...

Read more
stayc main image

Omar Apollo Unveils New Single 'Less Of You' Inspired by London Nightlife

June 20, 2024

Omar Apollo has just released his latest single, 'Less Of You,' offering fans a glimpse into his evolving musical landscape. This track is the third single from his highly anticipated second album...

Read more
stayc main image

Rihanna's Fresh Start with 'R9': A Journey of Rediscovery

June 20, 2024

Rihanna's journey towards her ninth studio album, affectionately dubbed ‘R9’, has been a long and winding road. At the launch party for her new Fenty Hair line, she opened up about the delay...

Read more
stayc main image

Eminem Faces Backlash Over Lyrics in New Song "Houdini"

June 20, 2024

Eminem has stirred controversy with his latest single "Houdini," which includes a line that many believe makes light of the 2020 incident where Megan Thee Stallion was shot. In the song, Eminem...

Read more
stayc main image

Camila Cabello Unveils Album with Double Dose of Drake

June 19, 2024

In an exciting revelation, pop sensation Camila Cabello has shared that her upcoming album, C,XOXO, will feature not one, but two collaborations with the legendary Drake. Speaking to Billboard...

Read more
stayc main image

Liz Lawrence's New Album 'Peanuts': A Sonic Rallying Cry for Community and Connection

June 19, 2024

Liz Lawrence has always enriched her songwriting by absorbing the influence of various art forms, and her latest album, Peanuts, set for release on June 7th, exemplifies this approach. An artist...

Read more
stayc main image

From Breakdown to Breakthrough: Sara Evans' Journey of Reconciliation and Renewal

June 19, 2024

Sara Evans, the acclaimed country music artist known for her captivating voice and heartfelt lyrics, is back with a new album that promises to resonate deeply with fans. "Unbroke," her latest...

Read more
stayc main image

Meghan Trainor: Celebrating a Decade with 'Timeless'

June 19, 2024

Ten years ago, Meghan Trainor burst onto the music scene with her smash hit "All About That Bass," a song that not only showcased her unique blend of doo-wop and contemporary pop but also became an...

Read more
stayc main image

Eminem's "When I'm Gone" Hits One Billion Views: A Milestone in YouTube History

June 19, 2024

Eminem's iconic music video for "When I'm Gone" has officially reached one billion views on YouTube, marking a monumental achievement for the rapper and solidifying its status as one of his most...

Read more

Should You Start with an EP? A Guide for New Music Creators

stayc main image

When it comes to launching your music career, one common question arises: "Should I start with an EP or a single?" This is a crucial decision for any new artist, especially for those who are trying to make an impact without a fanbase. Let's explore some considerations and share examples of famous musicians who faced similar dilemmas.

Understanding the Basics: Single vs. EP

If you're just starting out, releasing a single is often recommended for a few reasons:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Producing one song is less expensive than creating multiple tracks.
  • Focused Marketing: With a single, you can concentrate your promotional efforts on one track, making it easier to capture attention.
  • Quick Feedback: Releasing a single allows you to gauge audience reactions and adjust your style or strategy before investing in a larger project.

However, if you already have experience in songwriting and production, as you've mentioned, launching with an EP might be more strategic. An EP (Extended Play) usually consists of 3-5 songs and can showcase your range and versatility, providing a more comprehensive introduction to your music.

The Case for Starting with an EP

Starting with an EP can be advantageous for several reasons:

  1. Making a Strong Impression: An EP can serve as a portfolio of your work, demonstrating your ability to create cohesive music with a distinct style. This can help you stand out, especially in a market where people are not fluent in English and are more receptive to new and unique artists.
  2. Building a Narrative: Unlike a single, an EP allows you to tell a story or convey a theme across multiple songs. This can create a more memorable experience for listeners and build a stronger connection with your audience.
  3. Establishing Your Brand: An EP can help define your sound and artistic identity, giving you a foundation to build upon in future releases.

Famous Musicians Who Started with an EP

Several well-known artists launched their careers with an EP, using it as a platform to establish their style and gain initial traction.

  • Billie Eilish: She released her debut EP, "Don't Smile at Me," in 2017, which became a breakthrough project, leading to her first album. The EP's success was driven by her unique sound and relatable lyrics, establishing her identity in the music scene.
  • Lorde: At 16, Lorde released her first EP, "The Love Club EP," which included the hit single "Royals." The EP showcased her ability to create catchy, thought-provoking pop music and quickly captured the attention of major labels and fans worldwide.
  • Chance the Rapper: His debut mixtape "10 Day" was essentially an EP, produced while he was suspended from school. It gained a cult following and led to his next project, "Acid Rap," which solidified his place in the music industry.

These examples illustrate that starting with an EP can be a powerful way to introduce yourself to the music world, especially if you have the skills to back it up.

Overcoming the Fear of Being Overlooked

It's natural to feel scared about not being noticed, whether you release a single or an EP. Here are some tips to help you gain traction:

  • Leverage Social Media and Streaming Platforms: Platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram allow you to connect directly with listeners and build a fanbase organically.
  • Collaborate with Other Artists: Partnering with local or online artists can help you tap into their audience.
  • Engage Your Audience: Share behind-the-scenes content, engage with fans, and create a sense of community around your music.

Conclusion: Trust Your Gut and Take the Leap

Ultimately, whether you start with a single or an EP depends on your confidence in your material, your marketing strategy, and your goals as an artist. Given your experience in songwriting and producing, an EP could make a more substantial impact. Remember, every artist's journey is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Trust your instincts, and use your first release to showcase your true musical identity.