Why A “Live” Record Could Hurt, Not Help

by Cari Cole

Don’t get me wrong – I love a great “live” record. But after I already am familiar with an artist and their songs – because it means more to me then. I’ve already had a chance to listen to the awesomely produced version and have probably seen them live – so the “live” record is a treat, not the main dish.

So don’t rule out “live” records, just wait until you have a fairly established fan base (upwards of 20K+ and ideally more like 50K) – it will mean more to them then and the record will be more successful. There are always exceptions to the rule but I think you get the gist of what I mean.

Also, live demos are generally not as good as produced ones as there is no separation (or little) on your instruments and the production quality is not as good. You won’t be able to use them as broadcast quality – in films or on TV shows for the most part.

As for YouTube videos, live recordings show your live performance cred, but only do them if you’re really really good live. Otherwise, wait until you are!

And I have to mention this because it’s detrimental to artists. Lately I’ve noticed sites where musicians post their music, like Reverb Nation and others, that will sometimes flatter or place artists and I wonder if it’s in an effort to engage them more on their platforms. Because it seems that they don’t have a high bar on their compliments or what they feature. This can be extremely misleading to artists who are looking for feedback. Always filter what others say, if they’re the only ones commenting (and family and friends do not count) – you could be getting the wrong impression about your work. Truth is, if it’s really that good, everyone will notice, not just a few.

Here’s the way you should present your music online:

1. Post Your Top, Best, Most Professionally Recorded 5 Songs First.

Do you direct people to exactly what you want them to hear or do you throw up every song you’ve ever recorded and let them choose? Don’t. Did you know that you have to direct people to exactly what you want people to hear? People don’t have enough time to sort through your material, figure out what is best, they will always listen to the first song you have. So you better put your best songs and recordings first or you’ll always wonder why you aren’t getting the response you want.

2. Less is More.

Artists and songwriters sometimes think that the more songs up they have that that shows they have more content and that more is better. Nope. As I mentioned above, no one has time to go through your entire catalog and especially to imagine what your rough demo could sound like fully produced (except for a producer, and even then your demos should be really good). Your part is to finish your songs and get your recordings on a professional level – then present them. So less is more – only show your best work – you’ll notice the difference when you do. It puts you on a whole new level and people will see that.

3. No Live Recordings Unless…

Live recordings could weaken your brand. Especially if you don’t have a serious following (20K+ fans who have bought your record or attended your show – not followers online – there is a big difference!) The time to do a live record is once your career is established and people know your songs well. The other exception is if you are an exceptionally good recording artist and your live show is better than your recorded show (but also I would wait until you are established) or, if you throw in a few very-well-recorded live cuts following your 5-10 killer produced songs. Remember, you must lead people to your best songs and best recordings – let them lead over live.

4. Don’t Post Demos First Up.

My general rule is don’t post demos at all. But, ok, I would say not to post them unless your demos are record quality with dead on vocals (no off pitch singing please) and a great sound. And definitely don’t post them first on your page!! Even if you think the songs or material are better than what you’ve had professionally recorded – be patient. It only looks sloppy! A good judge of whether your demos are credible is: a. It blows you away and b. it blows everyone else away (friends and family don’t count). You can use a private page for select fans and industry on Soundcloud or your own website to get feedback on demos first, or use your Inner Circle. Get professional feedback on the order of your songs and whether they are good enough. You can always set up a Cole Power Hour with me and I’ll give you the straight forward honest feedback that will improve your chances and make your brand resonate with people out there.

Is it time to get serious about your music and your next record?