How Modern Talent Scouts in A&R Find the Next Big Thing

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Artists and Repertoire, or A&R, is the branch of a music label that finds and represents talent. It is one of the most sought after positions. Scouts in A&R work hard to identify bands and artists they can sign, who will be a great fit for the label. Here are some key ways they find new talent.

They Know What they are Doing

Artists and Repertoire is a rewarding career where you get to bring great music to the masses. Real music moguls like legends such as Clive Davis and modern rising stars such as Danny Roberts of Decca Records have an eye for spotting new talent. As one of the most sought-after jobs in music, it is also one of the most challenging. However, with the studio’s money riding on the next band or artist you recruit, there is always the chance of a career-ending gamble!

Scouts in A&R Go to Many Live Performances

The modern music industry actively operates in 200 countries all over the world. While scouts attend many gigs, they aren’t there to have fun and actively evaluate multiple metrics on site:

• The scout will first assess the quality of the music a performer is playing.
• Based on how well an artist or band plays, commercial viability is also a factor.
• While at gigs and performances, a scout will also be networking with managers.

It all comes down to talent when looking for a new act. However, style and image are vital for marketing purposes. A scout will also be discussing things with a manager while in attendance.

Monitoring Digital Streaming Platforms

With so many platforms today, it is possible that a scout doesn’t even have to leave the office! By listening to artists on apps like Spotify, YouTube platforms, and music upload sites, you can find amazing talent with minimal effort. Artists such as Billie Eilish and The Arctic Monkeys are two excellent examples of talent found online. If you are an artist, it is in your best interest to build a fanbase via online platforms, as you never know who is listening to your music.

Scouts in A&R Use Industry Connections

Any solid and reliable business is built upon networking. Scouts in A&R, with many other people in various positions, attend various gigs, live performances, and even recitals at schools.

Industry collaboration

A&R scouts work with managers and reps to discover talent they can consider for contracts. Insiders are excellent sources because they work with talent directly and will tip off scouts.

Freelance talent scouts

Management scouts in A&R can’t be everywhere. Therefore, they will often use the services of knowledgeable freelance scouts to source talent and attend performances all over the world.

Music schools

There is a lot of talent to be found at music schools. A&R reps will often attend recitals and public school performances to identify talented artists at a young age they can approach.

Contests and Music Competitions

Most people have seen TV shows such as The X Factor and Pop Idol. But talent shows are nothing new. In fact, while scouts will attend contests and competitions, they may also even organize them. Competitions are an excellent way for scouts to have talent come to them, rather than traveling too much to find new artists. As an artist, you should be encouraged to enter talent shows and contests to put your name out there and hopefully become noticed by a scout.

Scouts in A&R Evaluate Certain Factors

On average, an A&R scout will evaluate between 20 and 30 artists per day. So you need to stand out for them to notice you. It is hard, but some of the things they look for are as follows:

• One of the most obvious is a candidate’s talent and musical abilities.
• Originality and talent when it comes to writing songs are also critical data points.
• Any good A&R scout looks for artists with a strong work ethic and commitment.

While art is subjective, singing is not! You either can or you can’t, so talent is a must. Scouts also love original work instead of covers but will also look for artists willing to put in the time.

People Who Promote Themselves

Scouts are pretty good at what they do. However, you can make it easier for you and the scout by getting involved in your own promotion. This shows a dedication to the industry and is a demonstration that you are taking it seriously. Spotify and YouTube are excellent platforms for getting more people to listen. A scout will use these platforms, and others like them, to find the next big thing. But they can’t sign you up if you aren’t putting in the work to become noticed.

Summary

People in the music industry typically know what they are doing, and scouts in A&R are among the most eagle-eyed for spotting talent. They look for artists through industry connections and attending gigs. But also measure suitability through dedication, commitment, and work ethic.