Approaching and pitching prospective collaborators can pan out in various ways. Some artists hit it off right from the start, others have to climb through a rocky terrain to gain some kind of rapport.
To help you dive into a new situation like this in the best manner possible, we gathered some ideas on how to connect via clear communication, good preparation and genuine interest.
Even if you only pick one or two of these pointers, implementing them can gradually optimize the way you pitch your music and make others feel about a possible collaboration.
Let’s start with language:
Less sugarcoating, more straightforwardness
There is absolutely no need to sugarcoat facts about your music and where you’re headed.
If you’re trying to punch yourself out of a rut – don’t try to hide it by overcompensating with exaggerated plans and promises.
Straightforwardness is ALWAYS the way to go when you’re engaging with new professionals in music.
People will appreciate your open demeanour and project that upon your music, elevating the reasons of collaborating over a piece of music.
Do some catalogue research
Doing some research on the music catalogue of a prospective collaborator is an absolute necessity and sign of respect.
You express genuine interest by doing so, and might even find something special to implement within you own art.
Doing your homework in this area will give you a solid „reason-why“ when engaging in the first conversations.
If possible – do a physical listening session
There’s something special about the vibe of things when musicians get together at home or at the studio.
Digital convenience nowadays let’s us exchange thoughts and ideas in the most elaborate ways. Nevertheless, try to hit it off during a physical listening session if possible.
If not, meet up for a early video-call session really early in the process. Getting a real-life feeling for a person is of incredible value when evaluating a possible collaboration.
Ask for feedback on ideas
If you ask for feedback on ideas, you involve the other person into the process even prior to recording the first collaborative note.
This can open up a broad pallet of emotional and intellectual rapport. This also is a sign of trust towards a new individual and his/or her creative opinions.
Don’t crush the vibe with deadlines
Even though you might be sitting on some tight deadlines, try not to push them into the conversation within the first few exchanges.
The possibility of crushing any form of lighthearted vibe is very high when introducing pressure like this from early on.
Even though disclosing deadlines is a vital part of any collab, try waiting for the right moment to make that step.
If necessary, separate collab from single piece of music
The reason for pursuing a collab with a certain individual can be diverse – fanbase overlap, pure musical aesthetic, friendship etc.
These and various other reasons go way beyond a single piece of music, and make sense on a structural level.
So – even if you don’t hit it off with a certain piece of music or loose the magic around a track, try not giving up on the idea of the collab.
If you respect each others craft and hit it off on a personal level, the song will materialize and you’ll make it happen. Try to be patient!
0 be the first one to show some appreciation for this!