A demo in music is a track that is a rough draft example of the completed song. The demo is short for demonstration, in which the track demonstrates the idea the song is going for but needs to be fully redone for it to turn into a master recording.
A master recording, on the other hand, is the complete and final copy of a song.
Demo recordings usually suffer from poor audio quality because the band or artist that is performing it was not in a good studio.
Sometimes, the recording quality of the instrumentation portion of the demo is actually great. Still, the singer or rapper is doing a demonstration that will need to be done over in the future.
A demo track should be the same length as a regular song or shorter. You should have a demo that showcases at least a verse and chorus for your song. Many demos are full-length but incomplete, for example, having a bridge that doesn't have vocals or lyrics yet.
A demo shouldn't need to be longer than 4 minutes since you're just demonstrating a song unless you're creating in a style of music that involves a lot of freestyle jamming.
For Labels
A demo is sent to labels or similar companies by bands and artists looking for someone to help them take their marketing to the next level. Labels often want you to send unreleased material that is not finalized in case they want to re-record and release that song under their name officially.
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For Song Pitches
Demos can also be sent to established artists in hopes that the artist will take the song and release it as their own. Many demos for these opportunities can come from songwriters and publishers looking for placements with big names.
These demos are also often of high quality, with the writer or publisher hiring a professional singer to demo the song for the opportunity.
Underground Bands and Artists
In some scenes, demos from local bands and artists with small but dedicated fan bases can be sold at very low prices or given away at shows. The reason it's called a demo in this instance is that the sound quality of the demo CDs is still 'demo' or low-quality stuff.
If you're looking for help in the music world, and you don't feel like your song quality is on par with the songs you hear getting spins on Spotify and Youtube, demos are where you can really shine.
You don't want to be sending these songs to places where the public will be able to hear and judge you, but sending demos to A&Rs, labels, publishing companies, booking agents, and similar ears could help you get to that next step.
Obviously, the better the sound, the better your chances of impressing your listener. But when you're recording your demo, focus on making your talents and your unique appeal really shine, regardless of the recording quality.
As long as your talents are clear and easy to hear, you'll have a good chance!
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Making a demo is very similar to the process of making a professional song. You want first to write your lyrics and melodies, then add instrumentation in the form of live instruments or a beat (optional).
Sometimes, the beat or instrumentation comes first if it's already prepared, and you're writing based on the music already given.
What makes a demo different is simply the process of recording, mixing, and mastering. Instead of going to a fancy studio or having a fancy one of your own, your demo will be recorded in a lower-quality setting, sometimes even over a phone.
After that, demos often don't have mixing and mastering at all, but some demos have a quick mix done by someone that isn't yet entirely professional.
1. Be sure you're not sending your demos to places that state they aren't accepting unsolicited submissions! You'll be wasting your time and possibly putting yourself at risk of legal problems.
2. Don't send demos to places like radio stations! Also, don't upload them to your distributor for sites like Spotify and iTunes!
3. Be sure you are sending your story along with your demo. Make your overall presentation as full as it can be. Send great pics as well!
4. Your demo song or album doesn't need to be too long. The song can be around 2 minutes, and the CD can be approximately four songs at most.
5. Be persistent but respectful. Following up after sending your demo is important, but don't be pushy or rude. A simple follow-up email or phone call can remind the recipient of your submission and show them that you are serious about your music.
6. Get feedback from trusted sources before sending out your demo. This can include friends, family, and fellow musicians. Their constructive criticism can help you improve your demo and increase the chances of it being well-received by industry professionals.
Start with getting a huge list of labels to submit your demo to through IndieBible if you are ready to get noticed.
In conclusion, demos are an essential part of the music industry. They serve as rough drafts of completed songs, providing an idea of what the final recording should sound like.
Demos can be used for various purposes, including sending to labels, established artists, and even selling or giving away at shows. When making a demo, it's essential to focus on making your talents and unique appeal shine, regardless of the recording quality.
Additionally, it's crucial to ensure you're sending your demo to the right places and including your story and presentation when submitting.
Overall, demos can be a great way to get noticed in the music industry and take your career to the next level.
As a session singer, writer, and producer that has worked with over 300 clients to provide high-quality jingles, singles, and features, Yona spends her time creating and marketing new music and helpful resources for creators. Check out Yona’s latest releases on her Spotify, her Youtube and share if you like it!
If you are in need of singer, songwriter or song producer services, see what Yona Marie can offer you on her services page.
