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Find the Right Manager for Your Music Career—Even If You're Just Starting Out

September 3, 2024

The idea of hiring a traditional manager might seem premature, but finding someone who can handle your online presence and help you network could be exactly what you need to take your career...

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How to Be a Successful Songwriter When You Can’t Play an Instrument

August 26, 2024

If you’re a songwriter who can sing but can’t play an instrument, you may feel like you’ve hit a roadblock in your creative journey. You have the ideas in your head, but you’re unsure how to turn...

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What Is the Point of Mastering If the Mix Is Good? A Guide to Understanding Mastering's Role

August 26, 2024

For many newer producers, it can be confusing to understand the importance of mastering, especially when your mix feels polished and balanced. However, mastering is an essential step in the...

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Write a Vocal Melody That Stands Out: Tips for Phrasing and Dynamics

August 25, 2024

If you’ve been writing music for a decade but are just starting to dive into vocal melodies, you’re not alone in facing challenges with phrasing and creating vocal dynamics that don’t feel repetitive.

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Add FX and Ear Candy to Your Tracks: Tips for Taking Your Sketch to the Next Level

August 23, 2024

Adding FX and ear candy can feel like a daunting task, especially when you start to overthink the process. However, these little details are often what bring a track to life, adding depth, excitement.

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Recreate a Vocal Stutter Effect Like Skrillex: A Step-by-Step Guide

August 21, 2024

If you’ve just stepped into the world of music production, vocal stutters can be a fun and impactful technique to add excitement and energy to your tracks. You’ve heard that fast vocal stutter at...

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Get a Great Sounding Synth: The Deadmau5 Approach

August 21, 2024

If you’ve been experimenting with synthesizers, you know the quest for a perfect synth sound can be a challenging but rewarding process. Whether you’re looking for something clean yet huge, or...

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Make Music Again: Overcoming Creative Burnout Like Pharrell Williams

August 21, 2024

Hey there, fellow music creators! Whether you’re balancing a day job, DJ gigs, and music production, or just feeling creatively stuck, you’re not alone. Many of us hit a wall at some point, where...

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Master Your Craft as a Beatmaker: The J Dilla Way

August 21, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the most efficient ways to master your creative process as a beatmaker, and how you can learn from one of the most respected producers in the game: J Dilla.

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Bumbershoot Festival 2024: A Creative Celebration in Seattle

August 8, 2024

This Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle Center from August 31 to September 1, 2024. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Bumbershoot continues to be a...

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Ohana Festival 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Music Creators

August 8, 2024

As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating one of California’s premier music festivals. The Ohana Festival, set to take place...

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Desert Daze 2024: A Creative Oasis for Music Enthusiasts

August 8, 2024

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, the anticipation for one of California’s most eclectic music festivals begins to build. This October, the 2024 Desert Daze music...

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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.