Discovering Hidden Gems: The Best Strategies to Find Up-and-Coming Musicians and Bands
Identifying the next big thing in music is an art in itself, one that requires a keen ear, a bit of luck, and a willingness to explore the vast and dynamic landscape of new talent. This article explores the strategies to discover up-and-coming artists that could be on the brink of stardom, offering insights from various sources and approaches.
Traditional Sources of New Music
For decades, public radio stations have been a reliable source for discovering new musicians and bands. Regardless of the genre, stations like NPR or local public radio often feature new artists in their cultural or new music sections. Additionally, independent community radio stations in your city or county offer a wealth of undiscovered talent.
Online platforms like music magazines and websites such as A.V. Club also provide a curated list of new releases. Online streaming services, such as Spotify, Vimeo, Pandora, and YouTube, are invaluable resources. Searching for categories like 'the best of new music' or 'the best of 2022 in indie jazz, folk, or girl bands' can lead you to a plethora of emerging artists.
Audience-Driven Discovery
Word of mouth still plays a significant role in discovering new music. In past eras, recommendations from independent record shop employees were highly valued. In today's digital age, you can use a search term like 'what are the best new heavy metal bands or genres,' and Wikipedia will provide a list of genres such as Avant-Garde Metal, Celtic Metal, Doom Metal, Power Metal, and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM).
A newer and more sophisticated approach is the The Hype Machine. This platform aggregates and curates content from various blogs and streaming platforms to identify new talent. It can also serve as a tool for emerging talent to gain exposure.
Social Media and Online Communities
Social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, SoundCloud, and Facebook are the best places to find up-and-coming artists. These platforms provide an avenue for artists to showcase their work and connect with fans directly. Beyond these, other social media apps may also be fruitful, making these platforms the top 4 for discovering new talent.
Leveraging Technology and New Platforms
Seattle’s local radio station, KEXP, is a prime example of a platform that champion new independent artists. KEXP is not only broadcast locally but also worldwide, making it a global hub for discovering new talent. While they play a mix of new and old music, they focus on giving exposure to bands that wouldn’t typically receive mainstream exposure.
Another approach is to attend art fairs or shows in your area. This can be an excellent way to discover emerging musicians, although it requires a different mindset. Most artists at shows are not seeking criticism or praise; they are selling their work. As an unknown artist, your best chance to support them is by purchasing something, helping them earn a little income.
Art fairs and shows can offer a broader canvas to explore. Keep in mind, though, that you'll have to interact with the artists in a more business-like manner. Aim to ask meaningful questions about their work, provide thoughtful feedback, and potentially make a purchase to support their efforts.
By using a combination of traditional and contemporary methods, you can uncover the next big breakthrough in the music industry. Whether it's through radio stations, online streaming services, social media, or attending art fairs, the world of emerging talent is vast and exciting. Happy discovering!