How to Build a Music Career as an Emerging Female Artist

You don't need to have it all figured out. You just need to start building.

Being an emerging artist today means you're not just making music.

You're building a brand, network, audience, business and creative identity at the same time. And if you're doing all of that while working a 9–5, freelancing, studying or building something else? It can feel like a lot.

Here's where to start.

1. Develop your sound

Don't rush to release music simply because everyone else is.

What do you actually want to sound like?

Develop your songwriting. Experiment with production. Work on your vocals. Collaborate. Your sound doesn't need to be perfect.

It needs to become recognisable. We see the importance of this which is why we have our very own artist development program for women in music.

2. Build a visual identity

Your audience should be able to recognise you before they hear your song.

Think:

• Photography

• Fashion

• Colours

• Typography

• Social content

• Artwork

• Live aesthetic

Your personal brand isn't separate from your artistry. It is part of the experience.

3. Learn the business

You don't need to become a music lawyer overnight. But understand the basics:

Publishing. Royalties. Splits. Copyright. Distribution. Contracts. Marketing.

The more you understand, the more ownership you’ll have.

4. Build relationships, not just contacts

Don't approach networking like collecting LinkedIn connections.

Go to the event. Have the conversation. Follow up. Support their work. Collaborate. Invite them somewhere.

Be someone people remember for the right reasons.

5. Create your own opportunities

If you want to perform, create a showcase.

If you need producers in your network, organise a writing session.

This is exactly the philosophy behind Social Butterfly. It all starts with you.

6. Protect your creative energy

Your career matters. But so does your life. Go to brunch. Travel. Go to gigs. Visit exhibitions. Try the new café. Go skating.

Buy the outfit. Take yourself somewhere you've never been.

Your life gives your creativity something to say.

7. Find your people

This is the part that gets underestimated.

You need people who:

• Understand what you're building

• Celebrate your wins

• Introduce you to opportunities

• Collaborate with you

• Challenge you

• Make the journey more enjoyable

Social Butterfly exists believe community and collaboration is key to growth and development as an artist.

You shouldn't have to build alone.

Your career doesn't need to look like anybody else's.

Build something that reflects your sound, your values, your lifestyle and your ambition.

This week’s task

Make a moodboard for the life you're building not just the career.

Include the music, fashion, places, people, experiences and lifestyle you want around you.