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A.R. Rahman: The Maestro of Modern Indian Music

June 19, 2024

Allah Rakha Rahman, known globally as A.R. Rahman, is synonymous with musical genius and innovation. Born on January 6, 1967, in Chennai, India, Rahman's journey from a child prodigy to an...

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Eventbrite Study Reveals Shift in Ticket-Buying Trends Among Music Fans

June 19, 2024

A recent study by Eventbrite has uncovered a notable shift in the behaviour of music fans, who are now purchasing concert tickets later than ever before. This trend was a key topic of discussion at...

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Why are female artists underplayed on Canadian radio?

June 19, 2024

A new University of Ottawa study has revealed a stark disparity in the airplay of music by women, particularly racialized and trans artists, on commercial Canadian radio over the past decade...

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Thousands of Swifties made 'unbelievable impact' on Edinburgh

June 19, 2024

Taylor Swift’s billion-dollar Eras Tour recently graced Edinburgh, bringing a flood of enthusiastic Swifties to the city and creating an exceptional boom for local businesses. Tens of thousands of...

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Amazon Music Livestream: Showcasing Kendrick Lamar in "The Pop Out — Ken & Friends"

June 19, 2024

Amazon Music is set to enhance its live streaming offerings with an exciting event: "The Pop Out — Ken & Friends," featuring the acclaimed rapper Kendrick Lamar. Scheduled for Juneteenth in...

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The Black Keys' Management Shift: A New Chapter and Its Impact on the Live Music Sector

June 18, 2024

The Black Keys, the renowned rock duo, have recently made headlines with their decision to part ways with their long-time managers, Irving Azoff and Steve Moir. This significant change comes in the...

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Jhené Aiko: The Soulful Songstress of Contemporary R&B

June 18, 2024

Jhené Aiko Efuru Chilombo, known professionally as Jhené Aiko, has become a defining voice in contemporary R&B with her ethereal vocals, deeply personal lyrics, and genre-blending sound. Born on...

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Billie Eilish says she cried after performing ‘The Greatest’ for the first time

June 18, 2024

Billie Eilish has opened up about the emotional experience of performing her new song “The Greatest” for the first time. Her latest album, Hit Me Hard And Soft, was released on May 17, and Eilish...

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Billie Eilish responds to Lana Del Rey calling her the “voice of our generation”

June 18, 2024

Billie Eilish has responded to Lana Del Rey’s recent declaration that she is the “voice of our generation.” Eilish made a special surprise appearance during Del Rey’s headlining set at Coachella’s...

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Lana Del Rey has spoken out on her “fight” with “stalkers” in Paris: “Don’t follow me

June 18, 2024

Lana Del Rey has spoken out following her “fight” with “stalkers” in Paris. The singer was recently spotted having a heated exchange in the French capital, where she claimed someone was “following”...

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Howard University Revokes Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Honorary Degree Following Release of Cassie Assault Video

June 18, 2024

Howard University announced on Friday that it would revoke Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree, originally conferred in 2014, in light of recent revelations concerning the disgraced rapper and...

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Billie Eilish Joins the Race for the Song of the Summer with "Birds of a Feather"

June 18, 2024

As summer draws near, the race for the season's signature song heats up. Just when it seemed like Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” was poised to dominate, Billie Eilish has thrown her hat into the...

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

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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.