All About Britney Spears

How can I sell a song I wrote to a potential music artist?

Public Comments

1. We can find some examples in music history, i think. The only way probably would be to find a producer's or a recording company's address and try to send them your lyrics (the question is about the lyrics, I think?). At least, success stories of popular music artists I read included two ways: to send a record to somebody who may be interested, or to participate in some contests. For a lyrics author, it could be useful to send lyrics directly to an artist who could like it. But the possibility of his answer must be low...
2. Gather together the sheet music and a CD of you playing/singing the song, then send them to the artist's artistic representative. Include a very brief cover letter. Oh, and always make sure your song is registered with the U.S. Copyright office before sending it out to a bunch of people.
3. check out associations such as NASI (Nashville assoc. of songwriters int.) they are very supportive and do a lot to help songwriters. I lived in nash. for a year and am a member. they have weekly meetings with publishers who critique your songs give you tips and the best part is THEY'RE HEARING IT. publishers are the ones who count. when a singer is looking for songs they go through the publishing companies. the best advice is to find a way to get your stuff in their hands. some offer "one song deals" and if you're good you can get a publishing deal, the standard negotiation is 1+4 meaning one year of work then the company decides if they want to option you for up to 4 more years. you usually have to deliver 12-24 usable songs per year. Most beginners start with works made for hire (one time things) but information of contacting publishing houses is readily available on the internet and contrary to popular belief many are willing to answer every question you have. you can also research credible song competitions which can be quite helpful in earning you credibility. also, make sure you have a copyright!!! it's a 45 dollar investment that can save you a lifetime of trouble. go to the library of congress website and find the appropriate form, fill it out, attach lyrics to it and send it off. This is the best way to combat legal conflictions should they arise. hope this helped.