Many artists put in their mission statement, simply that they want a
record deal, thinking that is all they need to succeed for career in
music. Most don't have a clue what it takes to get that deal, let
alone maintain that career.

Artist development is a huge area overlooked by far too many young
artists. What is "artist development"?

Gone are the days when a record label "discovered" fresh new faces,
supported them, cultivated their creativeness, built up their fan
base, and guided their direction with the intent of turning them into
superstars as they once did. All of this of course, was with the
intent of selling those 45's, LPs, cassette's and CDs. Gradually,
many labels moved more into product development, which meant they are
focused more on the immediacy of sales of the latest CD (product)
released, and not bringing the artist up to that point.

In this Internet age, it is more the artist or band themselves that
must build the quality sound that is ready as a commercially viable
product. On top of that, they need to have an already established fan
base, basic music business skills, perhaps even the early music sales
of a well produced CD. Labels are looking for pre-packaged, very
talented musicians that are already showing their value.

A music career is a charted path to follow. Artist development
involves all the issues surrounding and arising from that charted
path, and crosses into knowledge of product development.

Checklist on what artist and product development necessitate:

Exceptional vocals, musicianship and/or songwriting skills
Continued education and enhancement of musical skills
Quality equipment
Performance ability
Image creation and maintenance
Plan of action, goal setting
Exceptional promotion materials, including photographs, press
releases and artwork
Business management skills
Marketing, publicity, and promotion knowledge, online and offline
Professional management
Basic knowledge of recording, producing, engineering, and mastering
Basic knowledge of manufacturing, distribution, and sales online,
brick and mortar and air-play
Good choices in members, staff and advisors
Physical and mental preparedness
Basic knowledge of finances, accounting
Law and legal issues: publishing, copyrighting, trademarks, and an
attorney
Alternative career options – even athletes need to have other options!

Tending to all areas of your music career may make the difference
between a one hit wonder and longevity in this business. It's been
said, "If you think this is a piece of cake, you better go bake one."
The music business, again, is a business. Businesses need to make
money. Take the time to find out all you can about each of these
steps in your journey.

That being said, an up and coming artist must begin somewhere…and if
a career in the music business is the goal, then any naiveté must be
addressed immediately!

At Artistopia, music artists, musicians, and songwriters across the
world come to display their talent and professionally manage their
music careers. Launched with the undeterred focus of building an
independent music community that "also" attracts industry
professionals, Artistopia is quickly becoming the one-stop shop for
artists and professionals to meet under one roof and speak one
language - potential success. Artistopia takes pride in pioneering
the next revolution in the music industry: how independent artists
and musicians are discovered.
Artistopia - The Ultimate Artist Development Resource Free Indie Plan
available http://www.artistopia.com