The Evolution and Future of the Demo Tape.

For any up-and-coming artist the traditional way to reach out to recording companies and DJs was to send a physical demo tape. Although the formats and reach out techniques have developed and changed the principle of the ‘demo tape’ is still relevant today as it was five decades ago.

The traditional demo tape as a physical medium does not exist in current times but the term ‘demo tape’ is still used to refer to a method for artists to showcase their material to decision makers with a view to securing recording contracts, radio airplay or festival appearances. Use of physical tapes was always a clunky way to get music to these target decision makers, but this has largely been streamlined by the use of digital formats. In addition, changes in the music industry now provide opportunities for artists to reach audiences directly. How has the ‘demo tape’ developed over time and what do artists currently need to focus on. 

Demo Tape History. 
The first demo tapes were usually recorded on reel-to-reel tapes in the 1960s progressing to cassette tapes in the 1970s. The quality of these recordings was extremely rough often being recorded in makeshift studios, but artists hoped that they would at least convey a sense of their potential. These physical tapes were sent to record labels, radio DJs and venue or festival owners. Equipment technology advancements in the 1980s led to higher quality demo recordings with wider availability of more professional multi track recorders. It was an era where artists often played a numbers game getting as many demo tapes distributed as possible to varying degrees of success.

Development of the Digital Era. 
With the introduction of digital formats in the 1990s along with new digital audio workstations (DAWs) and personal computers artists were able to produce much higher quality recordings. As digital formats took over the traditional reel-to-reel and cassette tapes largely disappeared and were replaced by CDs and MP3s which were easier to replicate in large numbers and distribute to music industry decision makers. 

Music Industry Landscape Changes. 
In the last two decades advancements in internet speeds, computing power and social media has enabled artists to make their ‘demo’ material available online direct to fans. This change in the industry dynamic has reduced the importance of the record label and radio DJ because artists can now release their new material direct to their fans and followers. The ‘demo tape’ has now shifted to online streaming platforms like SoundCloud where A&R (Artists and Repertoire) reps and scouts increasingly go to for the discovery of new artists and material. 

Today's Demo Tape. 
Artists today have access to sophisticated recording and mixing technology which enables them to record and produce their own high-quality material. AI is also enabling them to use tools which can assist in composing, arranging and mixing their demo material. The artist is now more likely to self-promote their material on social media and streaming platforms direct to fans and audiences. If they want to approach record labels and venue or festival owners directly they can simply email them with a link to their online channels. 

For small festival organisers planning their next events using a software management platform like Festival Pro gives them all the functionality they need manage every aspect of their event logistics, including a dedicated artist management module. The guys who are responsible for this software have been in the front line of event management for many years and the features are built from that experience and are performance artists themselves. The Festival Pro platform is easy to use and has comprehensive features with specific modules for managing artists, contractors, venues/stages, vendors, volunteers, sponsors, guestlists, ticketing, cashless payments and contactless ordering.

Image by wongpear via Pixabay

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