| It's a headline you see all the time when flipping through your favorite music magazine, browsing the web, or reading your email. Are compilations a good deal or just a ripoff? Do the major labels really care? The idea of a compilation CD is a great one. Getting 15-20 bands to split the cost of mastering, artwork, manufacturing, and promotion makes a lot more sense than spending all that cash yourself, right? The answer is yes...and no. First of all, no label (major or indie) if going to give you a deal because of a track you've had on a compilation disc. In fact, most major labels don't care enough to listen to them in the first place. Why should they? Why should a busy music industry executive listen to 15-20 songs by bands that are included in the project only because they had enough money in their bank account to pay for it? The only way somebody at a major label is going to care is if the person promoting the disc actually knows them or has a reputation for putting out quality discs. With that said, compilations are still a great way (and an inexpensive one) to get your music out into the hands of people who are interested. Independent bands most often have to make their fans one at a time and what better way to get somebody into what you're doing than giving them a copy of it? Thinking about getting on a compilation disc? Here are a few rules you should follow and a few questions you shouldn't be afraid to ask. A lot of people have been burned on compilation deals, so don't become one of them! - It's just a compilation!
That's right. It's just a compilation, so deal with it. You're not signing for a $20,000,000 advance or anything. A compilation is just a promotional tool...just like a magazine ad or a flyer. - Will my direct contact information be included in the liner notes?
Why is this important? You want people to be able to get in touch you with directly...not through the company you're working with! Compilation companies are only the promoters here, so don't let them try to weasel in on the deal if something does come up. - Will the compilation be for sale or for promotional use only?
An excellent question. Why should you pay money to get on a disc that a company is going to turn around and sell? You're paying for the manufacture (and possibly more depending on the deal), so don't ever work with somebody who is going to turn around and make a profit off selling of your music. - Can a see a previous disc?
A company who wants you to spend money with them should at least be willing to send you a sample of what you're going to end up on. This is EXTREMELY important and will tell you a lot about what you're getting yourself involved with. - What kind of standards do you have to be included on the disc?
Do you really want to be lumped in with a bunch of bands who are only included because they come up with the submission fee? Ask about this. - I was selected out of 2000 entries?
Yes, you and the other 1999 people. Don't let them stroke your ego with stories that you beat out 2000 other people and it's a very big honor. Compilation discs happen all the time and there is no such thing as a "window of opportunity" with them. - Is money really a sign of my dedication to "making it?"
Don't be bullied into a deal by somebody who tells you that you have to spend your money to show how serious you are. Sure, you have to show some effort and effort sometimes involves money, but money doesn't always equal dedication. - The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that you need to pass on the deal if you're feeling funny about it, the company isn't giving you direct answers to your questions, or you're getting a high pressure sale. It's just a compilation and you're not missing out on a career opportunity.
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