.::The Official SKILLA Blog

If you are thinking about starting a official band or group, here are some question you should sit down with members and ask yourselves.

• Name of Artist/Band? (Include all band members names and instruments played.)
• Is your stage name trademarked?
• Have you filed your songs for copyright protection?
• Have any of your songs been published? (If so, by whom?)
• Have you affiliated with a performance rights organization? (which one? ASCAP, BMI, SESAC?)
• What is your background? (Who are you and your bandmembers? Tell your story.)
• Do any band members belong to the Musician’s Union?
• Do you have a written ‘band agreement’?
• Why do you want to record and release your own music? (Be very honest.)
• Who is your fan/customer? (Analyze this question thoroughly.)
• What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)
• Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)
• Who are your musical influences? (Site specific examples.)
• How do you describe your music to people? (This is not a short answer. Discuss it.)
• What image do you think your music conveys? (Do not avoid the image issue!)
• What are your immediate music career goals? (Next 1 to 3 years.)
• What are your long-term career goals?
• How would you define the word “success”? (This is not a short answer. Discuss it.)
• Do you have any personal contacts in the music business?
• Do you have an entertainment law attorney to consult with?
• Are you looking for an independent label deal or a major label deal? (Why?)
• Do you have a demo or press kit, or any promotional materials?
• What live performance experience have you had? (Any industry showcases?)
• How do you rate your live performance ability? (Be very critical. No clich�s.)
• Have you recorded any previous CDs/Tapes? (Which studios? Who produced it?)
• How did you sell your CD’s/Tapes? (Consignment? Live sales? Distributor?)
• Have you had any previous print or broadcast media exposure or reviews?
• Are you financially able to fund the costs of establishing your career? (In debt?)
• Do you have a business license? (City, state, federal?)
• What is your current “business form”? (Sole proprietor? Corporation? Partners?)
• Have you set up a system for tracking your financial activities? (Software system?)
• Are you aware of the tax deductions available for musicians?
• Do you have insurance on your band equipment and vehicles?
• Who handles your daily business activities? (Bookings, promotions etc.)
• Have you created an actual career, marketing, or business plan? (Is it in writing?)