7 industry tips for new artists who want to turn their hobby into a fully-fledged career

Getting a career off the ground can be hard work, especially when you work independently, as many music producers and DJs do. There's so much to take into account and trying to juggle every aspect, from press to getting booked to play, can be more overwhelming than first thought.

It can be a maze out there so we spoke to leading industry figures to gather tips on how to get your career as an artist off the ground. It could take a while for you to get the wheels in motion, but take in the below and things will be a lot less stressful than you first thought.

There's no doubt many artists do take care of their own press, but that's not to say it's easy or stress free. It's just another task to add to the list, one which may include making tunes, getting a DJ mix sorted, hitting the road for shows and, as is often the case, even working a full or part-time job if music isn't providing a enough income. That said, hooking up with a PR agency to get your output heard by various publications would be a wise move. Don't be spooked by the notion that it'll leave you out of pocket, though.

Melissa Maouris, whose agency promotes campaigns for !K7, Damian Lazarus and Kim Ann Foxman among others, says: "Getting a booking agent and PR used to be something for an elite group of artists with big bank balances, but there's now a slew of independent companies that service niche areas of the market. These channels are increasingly important, but choosing the right PR and agent is one of the most important decisions an artist now faces."

However, it's still up to the artist to decide where they want their music to be heard. Maouris adds: "The best PR campaigns are made around an artist's own true vision. Many artists expect an agent or a PR to open up new worlds for them, but don't see that part of the process lies in their own hands. Every artist is different, and the more proactive and individual ones go the furthest."

Melissa Taylor of Tailored Communication, which includes Nina Kraviz, KiNK and Avalon Emerson on its roster, echoes the view that an artist needs to be in control of their direction.

"Be realistic about who you are as an artist, but only do what you’re comfortable with and what feels right for you, Don’t allow a manger to push you in a direction where you find yourself questioning if this strategy still feels like you. Keep control of your art and keep control of your image."