Generation DIY: Lookin’ Good, Good Lookin’
posted in: Features
Ever wonder why certain bands are signed and others are overlooked? Besides having some musical talent that can produce marketable music, most likely their name and look had something to do with it. The unfortunate truth is that nowadays many labels don’t look for groundbreaking sound anymore (remember the ’70s and ’80s anyone?). Instead labels seek out a marketable group that has not only a good sound but also a good look ” like anyone looking for the perfect date, they want the whole package!
This week we’ll visit different ways to create an overall look for your group, how to get a great press photo, as well as developing a persona.
As always, research different artists in your genre as well as different stores that cater to your style of music ” urban outfitters for those of you in the indie rock scene, karma loop for those of you in the pop/hip hop scene, etc. If you want to make an impact with your look, try and get yourself ahead of the curve by getting ideas of what the next big thing may be. For instance, a band that really brought forth the skinny jean, blank t-shirt look back in 2003/2004 was NJ screamo/rock band Thursday. It was different enough to catch attention of large labels and high up execs ” the uniform look has always been given a thumbs-up from the record industry, but it should be revamped to fit personal tastes. You have to be comfortable in your own skin, as well as the clothes that cover it up.
Many people will tell you that music is an art form, that it is pure expression, and as much as that is true, your band is a business at the end of the day. Consider someone walking up to you on the street and trying to sell you a product. If they are wearing shabby clothes and don’t look appealing, then are you going to give them the time of day? Probably not. Remember this as you try to sell your product (your music/image) to complete strangers. The goal is to create a life-long (or as long as your band is together) relationship. Your fans will be the ones purchasing your music and merchandise so take this advice: Dress to impress.
Another cool way of creating an image for yourself while working the cross-brand-promotion angel is to team up with a clothing line. Independent companies like Glamour Kills, Babycakes, Johnny Cupcakes and Kill Brand will usually sponsor a band that “has what it takes” and put clothes on their back for live shows, photo shoots, video shoots etc. This is a GREAT way to get yourself out in the music scene and make waves in a different fan pools that are normally hard to take over. If 10,000 people support a clothing line and they tell their fans to listen to a certain band, trust me, they will. So get your press kit together, write up a proposal and package your band as “the next big thing.”
With just the right amount of inspiration from other artists and stores, you’ll be able to figure out what kind of style works for you. Be sure to experiment and see what catches on and really fits your music. Remember, dressing your band is just like putting music behind a visual piece. You need consistency, you need to match your style to your sound and you need to look good. Soon enough you’ll be that guy in the band that all the girls swoon over.
Rock on Generation DIY. This is YOUR year.