How to be a paid successful singer
How I did it: I looked on Craigslist for a new vocal coach to help me get over my unnecessary insecurities and hone in my talent by working on pitch, tone and vocal agility. I then asked for her help in finding other musicians to work with to form a band to sing with.
I then decided I'd start with Christmas music as the holidays are approaching and I wanted to sell my Christmas CD for charity... so I put a set together, wrote new songs and found an affordable studio that let me work on an hourly deal and gave me an awesome discount so I could afford to go in... went into the studio to lay down tracks for the new songs and backing vocals when I wanted to do shows the band played with the tracks.
Finally... we choreographed the show, practiced everyday and rehearsed with the band. When the show was about ready, we had photos taken, made a brochure about the show and our band bio and contact info, created a website and contacted bars, wineries, hotels and casino locally to get bookings for our show! It was a success!! I DID IT! I got PAID to do what I love - SING!!
Lessons & tips: Be sure to find professional people to work with - there are a LOT of insecure backstabbing "professionals" that will talk a BIG talk and not deliver. Remember - its your career - your show - don't let anyone tell you what to do - take advice from people who aren't working with you so you can know who to trust and then be sure to keep focused and keep your group focused. If you are the leader - lead. Too many bands break up over lack of focus, too many "chiefs" and too many musicians with BIG egos and little talent. If they want to work - they need to act like it - that means rehearse, show up and do great! This is supposed to be fun but it should also be AWESOME and a performance worth seeing - EVERYtime. Remember stay positive and never give up! Its worth it!
Resources: Craigslist
Constant Contact ( 30 day free trial!)
Prints Made Easy (look for discount coupon code on google)
Hostbaby (6 month free trial and create your own website - for bands)
My website: malissiamusic.com
