SHOULD YOU RELEASE AN EP?

[@veerchasm1]

Doesn’t matter, EPs haven’t changed their mind about YOU

[@DamianKeyes]

Oh that's typical of EP's, always nice to my face and then behind my back it's a different story! After all I did for them! They will come crawling back.... They always do! 😜

[@floriss9]

@@DamianKeyes haaha! You're great

[@HannahParisUK]

@@DamianKeyesloving this.

[@TheRuben_music]

@@DamianKeyes word haha!

[@lillyyum2101]

@@floriss9 w👍🏼👍🏼

[@jeenaparadies]

We wrote to magazines and newspapers and they mostly told us to come back once we have a album ready.

[@vibeyrecords]

You are absolutely right. I see musicians on spotify only releasing singles and making A LOT of streams. Some then publish all the released singles as an album with maybe another one or two songs on it later.

[@Breadfan00]

That's exaclty how to do it imo. Put it all together into an album afterwards for simplicity (as long as it somehow fits being an album).

[@mhisalive]

Im going to digest this completely. I am releasing what will WITHOUT DOUBT be one of he best Eps of 2019.

[@SeanJGreen]

how that go

[@mjpayne899]

This is the most convincing argument I've heard on this subject.

[@CornelisGerard]

Just like the world of apps and software. Release early, release often.

[@DamianKeyes]

YES YES YES!

[@seppheinzl9378]

Until people lose interest after 3 months. For good!

[@johnalanreese6837]

Cornelis Gerard How often do you recommend releasing a single?

[@TheFeralcatz]

What about making an album and releasing like 3 singles off of it before you release the whole thing?

[@DamianKeyes]

YO YO YO, A lot of people have brought this up and I think i need to do a video on it today. While you can record an entire album and it might save time and recources which is helpful and sometimes necessary, it loses momentum for the audience excitement. The story for the audeince is earlier on and not the releases. Too many musicians think of the start of the story as the release but its the final chapter now. The audience needs to be involved in the story from the start of the process.. Your writing, recording process is part of that story 🙂

[@TheFeralcatz]

That makes sense, great video man and thanks for responding.

[@javiceres]

Damian Keyes That’s interesting.

[@kearonandrewobrien7460]

ITS ALL ABA

[@DanielHuman1996]

Singles going steady :)

[@robofjohnson3953]

Great advice, completely agree, would definitely be pushing collabs more for sure! Combining small fan bases to grow both audience's together is win win! Then organising tours/gigs supporting each other, playing the collabs live is something more artists/bands should be doing! 💜 Keep up the good work chap x

[@noahpauley]

This formula is exactly how some of these rising bands are starting. Thank you for directing me towards this video, so I know how to do it for myself.

[@thebraggersKansasCityPop]

Damian, I don't have a band but I produce my own music because band members are so undependable, I learned that lesson a long time ago, plus I'm an older bloke.. so I have a lot of realities working against me except one thing. I believe that I write good tunes. Currently, I'm writing a business plan for my particular project, and I had a difficult time presenting a focused model to pursue the rest of my musical career. I split my goals into 2 objectives, Licencing and strictly (band performance or full-length songs presentation). As I watched your first vid on the EP subject the lite bulb went off in my head and came up with the formula that works for me and my music business plan. So I have to thank you for the inspiration and the viewpoints, The music industry has changed so much since I started, but I'm a lifer. There is so much misinformation out there and lost musical souls I can feel their pain. I was lucky enough to have invested in the necessary print and recording equipment, plus education to be a self-contained musical making machine, and I took lotta hard knocks. I'm ready to release or implement my model as we speak. Sometimes you have to take a step back and plan your future so you don't get lost in the shuffle. Thanks once again..keep up the good work. I appreciate it.

[@triggerthumb5397]

How about this then Damo? This isn't really an original idea, as there's similar ideas cropping up in these comments, but this is what we're doing and it's been the most stressful and exciting time of ours lives. We've been releasing a single every month since last December, not having a back log of tunes pre-recorded but actually recording and releasing every month, now we're also writing, recording and releasing brand new tracks that no one's heard live, they happen and come together very spur of the moment which keeps things current, fresh and shows our progression month by month. We're stopping at 12 tracks with the last release in November. People have joined us along this ride as things have gone on, and we completely agree that we will overall have had 12 chances to push each track and leave people waiting for the next track to drop, building small waves of hype rather than one big one at the end. We're very much of the approach of, release a track, see what traction is gets but to us, once it's out, it's on to the next thing. It's how we keep things fresh, new and exciting for us, and hopefully for the people that dig what we do too. When all 12 tracks are out there, we're going to package them together with a small run of vinyls. This keeps our initial investment lower, and makes those vinyls rare and exclusive. The old rule of scarcity increasing value. We want people itching to get their hands on them, and already have people pestering us for one once they're available. We've been taking on a minimal amount of shows, because we simply can't play shows and release this material with the amount of spare time we have outside our day jobs. The question is, where do we go from there? Next year is definitely the time to take the material on the road. Play places we've never played, here there and everywhere. Probably mostly for travel expenses if we're lucky... We've organised the tracks so far into a playlist on each platform which is all well and good but we think a lot of people still consume music in a traditional album style way. You get in your car, train, bus etc. put an album on and hopefully stick with it for the 40+ minutes as long as the material is strong enough. We guess the difference is that we want a piece of artwork to go with the whole album that encapsulates everything we've put into it and captures the mood of the album as a whole. This goes for the vinyl release too because we want content to go with into the sleeve e.g lyrics, photos, a collection of each piece of artwork that accompanies each of the single etc. Sorry for the essay. We'd appreciate your opinion and we appreciate your grind of putting out regular, insightful content to help fellow musicians out.

[@zz.158]

I am very interested to read his answer also.Great question!

[@radiation_wolf]

That’s how I listen to Pink Floyd; full albums at a time. But it has to be Pink Floyd quality for me to listen to an entire album. Can’t think of many modern bands/artists that I would do that for. Also I don’t think this strategy from the video really applies to full concept albums. You’re going to want to find that niche market that wants to take in entire albums at a time and create a base of super fans there.

[@shiningdreamsGOGO]

OMG that sounds like a bomb ass plan. I've been thinking about if I should do this for a while, perhaps I should after hearing your approach. As some may suggest, a full length project release on the get go is kind of like a full stop. So it's hard to build momentum and elevate perhaps. But broken down singles has an appeal. It's like telling someone to watch a movie (in this case a single) verses telling them to watch a whole season of a tv series (album).

[@RealKevM]

You are bang on. By releasing a single every few months I can get the mileage out of my music.

[@BrioniFaith]

One word “crowdfunding.” Look up Savvy Musician Academy in how to build a career online. Albums with crowdfunding are the way forward, you don’t have to compare yourself to major label bands. The music industry has changed in a way that is beneficial to independent artists. You don’t have to play by the old rules anymore. This is old school thinking.

[@LouisLinggandtheBombs]

You’re 100% right. Singles are the way to go. I have a home studio and I’m an excellent audio engineer and even I struggle with the financial and logistical aspect of making singles. Recording drums for example: 4 hours of preparation before recording them. Then the drummer plays for three minutes and then it’s done! Economically speaking, it’s madness not to record other songs too. 9 more minutes drumming and you have the basis of 3 more songs! For guitar, bass and vocals, the preparation is less but it’s still a cost in money, time and logistics. Mixing takes time so you’re right about singles there. Maybe a hybrid approach is best. Where a band will record the skeleton of 12 tracks in a weekend. Then concentrate on finishing and releasing one at a time. That could work.

[@DamianKeyes]

Yeah great strategy dude. Get the most out of recording and the most out of releasing separately

[@jordanfiction]

when it comes to anything regarding promo/marketing, comparing yourself to a big band is death yo

[@ZacharyAghaizu]

it's true! some big artist will make 1 post of their single haha

[@nafisdelacruz9703]

question: are you for or against damo's points?

[@LTProdigy]

That's where I disagree, you should be comparing yourself to the greats for what they were when they started, and what it took for them to get to where they are. Should be looking at the greats as motivation because almost all of them had to work and grind for a long long time before they got the where they are now, it didn't magically just happen.

[@DamianKeyes]

I love this comment, so many people keep telling me what Pink Floyd did in 1969 and what massive bands do... The issue is how do you get to the stage where you can do whatever you like. Thanks Jordan

[@jackson0335]

Yes, but he is contrasting between the band and the big band. (Couldnt tell if you seemed to think that Damian was comparing you and someone famous)

[@kyokugami5134]

On my actual input, I think a lot of upcoming musicians have the idea that the EP is the sole silver bullet for exposure and building an audience; if its all invested in that and doesn't sell, then things can tank. I think the strategy of releasing something one at a time to entice new listeners, and have them hang on for an actual demand for an EP is a good idea. Its a timing strategy

[@DamianKeyes]

LiWingYu yeah I agree and then they get frustrated and down about it when they don’t achieve the results they got their hopes up for. I just want musicians to think about their strategy and take one day at a time, build the audience the right way and not try and run before they can walk. It’s similar with this channel, I got 1000 subs in the first year and to 10k in the 2nd year and now I’m getting 1000 every few days.. it’s horrible having to be so patient but it will pay off long term 😊

[@paulmanners5382]

Damo, cant help but agree with you. even tho I really want to release my songs as an album because i feel the songs have a congruent message and theme, but the advice in this video seems to good to ignore, id be missing out on potential engagement.

[@simonchesney3911]

record all of the songs and get a mix and master for consistency, and then release one song every two or three months until you have exhausted the album. At that point, start selling the album as a whole

[@nubaselinehero]

One of my favourite forms of music being albums that are constructed in such a way as to tell a story (not necessarily a lyrical story, sometimes just a story of the evolution of the songs/soundscape within the album) I would personally feel at quite a loss to miss out on these long form expressive 'pieces' so as to appease a record label or to keep the art form 'current'. If you build it (and it's good), they will come. x

[@oceandiaries289]

What if I call it an EP, but release it in singles. & I also have "Video Diaries" on youtube talking about making it happen & all the struggles & wins that are associated with it?

[@zacharypoueriet3804]

that's just a bunch of singles with the same cover art

[@SeanMuirMusic]

This is what I’m doing Damo! Record a song, release it as a single every couple of months. I’ve been on radio interviews to talk about my latest singles which happens regularly. If I’d released all those songs on one album that exposure would have only happened once! I now have six songs online I have a plan to package it as an album with a few more tracks as a kind of consolidation of all my work. One lot of exposure for a whole album (like you say unless you’re the Foo Fighters) is not enough in my opinion. Great video 👍

[@DamianKeyes]

Yeah and what's great about it is I get excited every time you start a new part of the story with a recording and look forward to it 🙂🙂

[@SeanMuirMusic]

Damian Keyes thanks dude 🙂

[@emmanuelkwasi3370]

I want you to do one about Starting your own Record Labels from Scratch and how to make great money from it in all angles from connecting with different Connections all around with every detail information needed to be understood

[@guitardedzach]

"I think I just broke my leg" lmao. But seriously, this was a very informative and thought provoking video. I definitely agree on your strategy with singles working for an up and coming band. Funny enough, I was having band talk with a buddy of mine last night who I recently started a new project with and he suggested something very similar as far as releasing a different single every month or so. I'll definitely take this advice on the marketing side as we build up the collection of riffs and songs. We're contemplating the idea of keeping it as an online project so we can market from that perspective. I think it would still make sense for locals band to release an EP if they're actively out playing shows to promote themselves as well as the release as long as there are other songs in the reserves. Gonna keep the idea of not "exhausting the creative" in my mind as we move forward with our project. Also, you earned yourself a new subscriber.

[@BRUTHAWAR]

I agree for the MOST part. Keep releasing singles, music videos, content in a constant stream. but once you have enough content, might as well release an ep or album so people can find it on Spotify, Itunes, etc.

[@vickij892]

Watched this, and I don't disagree with you. But I still stand for all the things I commented in the other video. I still see the point of putting out at least one EP in the beggining of your "career". Cheers mate :)

[@Nolai]

I think making an EP, for me atleast, is the feeling of making a project which carries an idea or subject and has a certain sound. And it can also be good for having strong songs with big potential and songs that might be personal to you so you can put them along.

[@thesonofjohn]

Not two days ago I was set on making an EP. Thanks for opening my eyes!

[@rainjaytv]

The Son of John same here

[@alessioimoh9228]

You're so right. I feel like you made it really clear in this video. It makes sense also because the "debut album" is way more important when you've actually grown a fanbase. It's easier for the casual listener to figure out if they like a band by having a taste of just a single. This way you organically work your way up and are able to back up an ep or album.

[@george00719]

Yeah but initally you need an albums worth to gig with..maybe after do singles?You can't gig a single that wud b sh*t

[@alessioimoh9228]

@@george00719 ok true an ep in order to have a base and then go on from that with singles

[@dustinmccrindle343]

What we've done is record an album (our producer was only available for a short time, so had to do all at once) and have even more songs written. But we're launching our first single in the next few weeks. So there's enough content for an hour gig or more...but sending 1 song to the radio plugger. So we're promoting our music single by single to radio, streaming and social media etc. And will also have albums to sell at shows in the mean time. Until we gain some traction after 3-4 singles then do an 'official' album launch. That's the plan, at least. ;) What do you guys think of that approach to the single vs album conundrum?

[@alessioimoh9228]

@@dustinmccrindle343 that's definitely a good compromise I feel like that's something I'd do

[@RancidDragonProductions]

Dustin McCrindle I agree with you. As i said in my comment here ... make albums and promote singles. More bang for your buck. Audiences are ADHD to the max now. If you put out a song a month you can stay with them, but once you're out of songs ... out of sight, out of mind. So keep pushing. When you become as big as the Foo Fighters, you'll have a whole back catalog for your fans to feed on.

[@ruiseartalcorn]

I totally agree! Sometime ago I decided to stop doing albums and just focus on one single at a time. It just makes more sense to me.

[@nilswandreymusic]

I just got told by a fellow musician friend to release EPs, because people see you more as an artist who puts out value and you seem more serious and committed. He said for some people it's easier to see you as an artist and become a fan that way, BUT what you said makes a lot of sense and let's face it... my friend is a little older than you and me.....

[@anjolotumaclas3117]

This one is A LOT better man! Adding value by telling peps what to do. Cheers mate!

[@mikehydropneumatic2583]

Working towards an EP or album might be a good thing concept wise. But releasing seperate songs in this day and age seems the thing to do. As for an album it is good to think about it as a whole with a coherent set of songs that were meant to be on the same album or at least side.

[@tomasfordelsen2090]

Damo, I have to partially disagree with you. EP´s are a waste of time because they´re an anomaly. Listeners, Spotify nor the traditional media really care about them. Even bloggers couldn´t be bothered. However, from my experience in journalism and PR, newspapers and magazines aren´t interested in singles because there are simply too many of them. They rather write about bands releasing albums because they are considered to be more committed than bands merely releasing single after single. That goes for most radio and TV interviewers too, unless you have a hit single. However, even unsigned bands have the opportunity to create a buzz together with a professional promo agency, no matter the format if - and only if - the band has an interesting story to tell about themselves and/or about their material. But that sort of thing usually cost money unless one of the band members are skilled in the PR department or they have a manager who is.

[@tomasfordelsen2090]

That is necessarily not how you create a buzz, with singles alone. As I stated, that´s why I PARTIALLY disagree with Damo´s opinion. You have to have a compelling story. As I tried to point out from a media standpoint: Any band, even with a small following, can create a buzz in the media with a great story, and not only in local media. I´ve been working in ALL types of traditional media for 15 years and have worked in PR for more than 6. Media doesn´t care as much about your following if you´ve got a unique story to tell. Generally, media doesn´t care about singles unless it´s a hit song because everybody and their grandmothers are releasing singles nowadays. Albums speak commitment, especially if you build up an expectation with a couple of singles. A buzz can be created in many ways. You don´t necessarily have to have released any music yet to create a buzz. I´m speaking from industry experience on the field. But most bands are oblivious to this. CAN you create a buzz with a single without (traditional) media exposure? Sure, but that involves hitting a nerve in your audience that makes them want to talk about it, and it surely involves a lot more social media than most bands could be bothered with.

[@tomasfordelsen2090]

You take advantage of the attention you´ve created, by going on tour. If the first album is great, the singles from the album will be played on the radio, it´ll spark a new wave of interest in your previous releases if you have any and you can monetize in different ways by having a song synched to a TV ad for instance. I don´t believe in the notion of exhausting the creative. You don´t start on a new album right away. Usually, younger bands get so inspired from touring that they create new songs while jamming backstage. And if you don´t feel creative enough to start writing a new single in the coming months after the album release, you get creative in other departments, to keep the attention of your audience, like creating a new line of merch, making alternative versions of certain songs from the album, maybe remixes, and making content for your social media. If you as an artist ain´t creative enough to keep at it, then tough luck, my friend. I´m sure that out of 5 guys in a band, at least one of them is still feeling the creativity even after an album release. The audience won´t get bored as long as you mix things up, but you have to hold on to the spotlight for as long as possible, and you can do that by being constantly on the move, doing relevant shit. That´s how it was done before the Internet and that´s how it´s done today.

[@nafisdelacruz9703]

i don't know, tomas, i'm still not convinced. this seems like really sound advice because even if "newspapers and magazines aren't interested" and "that goes for tv and radio as well", the traction you're getting from those things is so minimal anyway, that who cares whether they end up interested or not? then you proceed to say, "especially if you build up an expectation with a couple of singles" which basically translates to release and market singles now, which is what damo is saying. and touring sounds nice and all but how far can you tour with the interest you build off that one album?? i certainly won't say i know enough to agree you can only have 1 month's of traction as damo says. but even two months doesn't sound like enough. or three. or any amount lesser than how much time and effort was put into it. if the "interesting story" is what a band needs, that can be done whether it is an album or a single, so i'm not following you there, either. and developing merch and remixing songs are great advice, but hardly helpful if no one cared about the band's one album release that much to begin with. it would just be wasted capital. i leave out the social media content because all bands should be doing that anyhow. especially lost credibility (from me only) once you said "that's how it was done before the internet and that's how it's done today." the internet is changing how practically every thing is done. i doubt music is an exception. for example, one could release a single, market the hell out of it, get on blogs, vlogs, whatever local magazines and news will take you, and collaborate with whomever one can, and maybe even do a small tour, all with significantly less capital and TIME than one would need to make an entire album and do the same steps. that extra amount of time and capital could be a barrier for someone that is committed and serious, but simply does not have the resources ~right now~. they can develop it over time, all while getting plays and getting shows. this is all thanks to the internet. before the internet that was not even an option.

[@tomasfordelsen2090]

I´m not here to convince you. Do what you think is best. My initial reply was for Damo. If you disagree, then fine. I don´t care. That goes for anyone reading my comment. Basically, what I think is, one should do it all; singles, EP´s and albums, and not limit yourself to one format, thinking it´s the solution to everything. I just don´t agree with singles being the cure for every "up & coming" band or even beginners. It really depends on the genre and the demographic (market). But releasing an album tends to give interviewers more to ask about, they tend to be debated on radio and compared to other ones, and it´s much easier to get publicity with an album because you can get reviews too. Who´s reviewing singles nowadays? Hardly anyone. Singles serve well as teasers before an album but they have a short shelf life - less than 3 weeks - unless they´re hits. That was my point.

[@JoeX92]

There is something you all are forgetting: CONTEXT! Traditional Media doesn't work the same way in every country! yeah sure, where you have been working, Media gives a lot of oportunities, but not all Media in every country is like that! Here in Ecuador, well not a good example because we yet have to build the Music Industry but, you only get on Media if you are known, if people have listened your song or heard about you from somewhere, in this case releasing singles instead of an album for the first time will be better, maybe not 12 singles in a year but it's still better.. Now we've had some bands and musicians that have released an EP just when they have started, but those one where people who were already known to the public before being musicians. That's a downside on my country, sensationalism, that's how you get popular here fast, otherwise you only will be popular in your city. Few bands and musicians have been successful here (by successful I mean they can keep living out of still being musicians), most of them because of going outside the country or having some connection with people on Media, so if you are a "low-cost band" (meaning the musicians have just enough money to record some songs) and any of the members are known to some "wealthy people known by media", then the band or artist won't be successful, unless they keep releasing singles to build up some following to be listened by some Media luckily enough... I'm studying Music Production and I'm all in for releasing albums, but nowadays releasing singles can be better in most cases.

[@leeangel7831]

I learned MASSIVELY from this Video. Big love Damian Keyes ❤️. I’m definitely gonna keep this up. You’re just a blessing to mankind. ❤️❤️❤️🇳🇬🇳🇬🇳🇬

[@marcod.porter9807]

"Exhaust The Creative".... That's the 2019 mission statement right there. 😉

[@DamianKeyes]

Maybe I should T-Shirt that shit 🙂😜

[@jessefillmore]

I agree with Damian . The EP was for a time when there was no digital media . The EP was super important up until 2005 maybe . With the internet you can put the songs in the listeners ears in a instant . In 1980 it may take the band 2 days , 3 weeks or 3 months to get to your town and when they left it would take another year to get back around . The bands needed to give the fans songs to digest and gatefold art to intrigue them . If you want to make an album just to make one , I get it but if you are trying to make a career in the business , Damian is correct

[@crazyweather8207]

Agree with your thoughts about not running out of creative too quickly. Fair point.

[@MarioTorre]

If you make music for consumption, an album doesn’t matter. If you do it for artistic reasons you may need an album to suit a narrative. Also you probably record in studio where cost may be significant enough to limit your options on the number of tracks. In some genres it may not matter so you may do rolling releases.

[@ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1]

imo So much better-said than the 1st anti-EP vid! A thoughtful approach, no matter if it works as intended or not, is always better than a band just shooting its load without strategy or tactics. Cool. imo

[@kllnb8]

That approach makes sense. This fella might be on to something.

[@tatemcilwain1775]

I like to make albums because I think of it like making a movie. Each song is like another scene in the movie. But at the same time I do see what you're saying where it's better to release singles and priorities them over albums. It's like releasing a film trailer, just be careful not to spoil anything (my music is the kind of music you can spoil, like the epic plot twist in bohemian rhapsody when the operatic section comes in) I've been putting something together, it's going to be an EP with 5 songs on it, many of which are pretty long, but the first and last song are the most important for it to be seen as an album instead of a bunch of random songs, other wise it's just a few songs with a somewhat similar vibe

[@the_anonymous_muso]

Hi Damo, Thanks for your insight and passion. What your saying makes sense however, I feel that I need an album or at least EP to be considered legit. This seems to be borne out by my peers. As a new indie artist, you've gotta have something to hang your hat on. I think that's why I would still like to do one album. I don't expect the press to go wild, but I do expect some points on the board in my local scene and a greater sense of accomplishment. Also, I'm the making, a greater sense of purpose. Singles that are ignored feel worthless. I'm just starting out so I need content, for all the platforms. At the moment it's all on KZbin and it's all free. An EP I could sell while busking and at gigs. Anyway, just my thoughts. Thank you for your channel. I love it!

[@tibetanskyofficial]

i agree with you Damo, it makes sense. Record an album, then release a single with a video of course, play gigs. Then after releasing another 3 songs in the same manner, its time to put out the album.

[@DamianKeyes]

Thanks! Getting the reach bit by bit patiently and looking after the audience 😀

[@SoUnDMaN831]

This video is definitely better than your “Stop making EPs” video. I get your point now. Why put some much effort into something no one will care about, or might be 25% filler. I still think it’s good to at least have an EPs worth of songs. Then you can release one song every other month in a year with 6 songs until people start noticing and creating a demand for a full album. Maybe I’m old school but every band needs to have at least 6 finished songs because you need it for the live show. If you get offered a 30 min opening set and only have 2 songs then what are you suppose to do?

[@adambraun1990]

Personally I think for a band starting out (recording at home though), doing a few singles first is the best plan. Then if you’ve built up a decent following, drop an LP, except keep a couple of tracks back as B-Sides (and maybe if you’re in a rock band, take 1 or 2 of your prior singles and record them acoustically if possible). If you’re album is seeing some success, then drop an EP consisting of the B-sides from your album, plus those acoustic singles or remixes of them, etc. Lather, rinse, repeat. Since most artists are recording from home nowadays and it’s so much easier to do than ever, something like this is totally doable. An EP is an extended play after all. But an extended play of what? Your LP/full length, I saw someone else on your other video comment comparing it to DLC from a video game and I think that’s a good way to look at it. And if your album sucked and didn’t sell you can either release the EP to maybe help garner some interest in it, or just hold onto those songs for later. If you’re spending money in the studio, then just stick to singles. But if you’re doing it all at home, I think this is a pretty viable thing to do.

[@theneonchimpchannel9095]

What about releasing an album, but then pushing a song from that album at a time? Sort of like how bands used to do. The album would come out, then maybe 4 or 5 songs would be released as singles, make some good videos and record a few b-sides. That way there's still new content coming between albums. I like making music videos for every song on my band's albums, but I tend to spread out the release of those videos over the next year or so. Only on KZbin for the most part though as I don't know where else I can get them played these days. I did get a video on community TV years a few ago though so maybe that's something more bands need to look at, even if it's only seen by less than 100 people, it's a start.

[@DamianKeyes]

Hey dude, defo can do but I'd worry about losing the story aspect. The content leading up to the release is the excitement for the audience. Too many musicians think of the start of the story as the release but its the final chapter now. The audience needs to be involved in the story from the start of the process.. Your writing, recording process is part of that story 🙂🙂

[@f2detaboada]

Hello Damo, I agree with you 100% with your video. Lots of people look at the greats of the past by their most famous albums and not by their beginnings. Bands like Pink Floyd, the Beatles, Van Halen, Rush, Metallica, AC/DC, etc all started out releasing songs to amass a sort of momentum that after a few years would then bring about their debut album (which by then was perfected). As you said, many young bands try releasing albums after a few gigs only to have that album "flunk" and then they break up. I see this all the time as I work part time helping bands enter the *business* of music. Thank you for your video, Nando

[@fcardenas184]

Alternative (worked for me): Release three singles with a couple months in between them, then release a 5 song EP containing those 3 songs; you’ll effectively be releasing only two songs, but you’ll be: A) creating excitement about a full set of songs, which is usually more than just a single. B) giving a new push to your prevous singles. C) creating a more cohesive live show; you’ll be playing your EP instead of five separate singles. You’ll essentially just be releasing singles, but they’ll all be prt of a bigger strategy and a more cohesive product.

[@MrVleker]

This is what I'm thinking about. I do want one cohesive project so this might be my best bet!

[@MFskeleton]

I understand this video better . What you’re saying is actually pretty smart, business wise . I just feel as if bands should take the social media route more serious bc it’s the main thing at this current time . EPs can also serve as demos which can be sent to record labels directly . I wouldn’t go as far as to say you shouldn’t make EPs, but the method you described can help bands build up efficiently without having to put in extra work . Work smarter , not harder . I like your thinking .

[@DamianKeyes]

Thank you so much Obiwan 😊😊😊

[@commonhours]

DAMO! Thanks for the great advice. I was actually wondering about how my band should release our next track(s). I think we're going to go with singles like you said. Seems like a really good option for smaller bands with minimal followings.

[@DamianKeyes]

Amazing thanks dude, make sure you send me a copy when its done so i can have a listen!

[@commonhours]

Will do! Thanks for all that you do to help us smaller bands out. You're a real maverick and pioneer in this space. Keep it up, PLEASE!

[@kiarikametokashi4531]

I think you are absolutely correct when it comes to exposure buuuut I see a hack here I will be trying the coming two years. If you release a single every month then that is 12 songs a year. Well if you smack a cover on there you can release an ep with four tracks (three singles and one cover). This let's you get listeners from other bands but also let's you release the first two singles again as part of the ep. I'd say use the ep as a re-release tool to pump as much value as possible out of the singles.

[@pepesherbet]

Based on your older video, I misunderstood your position on EPs as if you thought albums were a better option. Whilst EPs and albums are such an attractive idea; I love the idea of somebody sitting and going on an extended audible journey I created from start to finish, simply looking at my Spotify stats, people don't do that. Singles fit well with me too as I really like the idea of sharing things when they're still fresh and relevant to me, so there's definitely positives to this new proposed model

[@remotegod255]

Awesome explanation. My current project is to write 50 new songs, pick the best 10 to produce to a high standard, and then start releasing them 1 at a time, one per 2-4 weeks, with a complete attack on publicity, audience-building, and attention for each track individually, along with any supporting content (e.g. videos) that I can make for each one. So basically one giant project like an album, but with the release split up into 10 complete song releases for 5-10 months. In other words, very similar to the approach you're recommending here . I'm sure it's not perfect, but I expect to learn a lot, become a better songwriter, and see my audience grow for sure :)

[@Trumpianet]

"Don't exhaust the creative" I dig it 👍🏾👍🏾

[@DamianKeyes]

🙂🙂🙂

[@tornghost]

Took me about five minutes to figure out what he was actually on about.

[@MikeConde]

Spot on mate! This is solid advice and makes a lot of sense! Thank you for posting and sharing.

[@kyokugami5134]

I didn’t see the date of the original release, but thank you for taking the time to still answer. I can still say you do have good points but my complaint was the actual delivery of that video. This is a better approach and I get what happened behind the scenes with the video before, so I have no hostility

[@DamianKeyes]

+LiWingYu yeah agreed it was my fault for making a rant video and not articulating myself well enough. Thanks for taking the time to watch this one with an open mind and replying 😊😊😊

[@shaunbanksmusic]

Whosh! You just changed my mind and probably saved me a lot of money and nerves. I owe you big one, Damian! My debut release was an album, because I thought that's the way it should be. What happened is exactly what you described...I bounced around a local scene a bit and then vanished. Why? Because I was freakin' exhausted from the album and I didn't have any content left to share. Love what you do and how you and explain everything in a way that makes perfect sense! Keep up the awesome work and you're NOT an idiot! :D

[@akhnatonadjeyakpo9910]

Whoow he does make a lot of sense. One can tell he really knows what he is talking about.

[@Rennatheeomnipotent]

What if you release 3 singles at once give those time to grow , release a documentary on those singles and a music video if need be, perform when opportunities come, in another 3 months release 3 more singles, repeat the same process, maybe an interview at this point , then 3/4 months later tell everyone your releasing an EP or a LP ? This way you will have some what a body of work to perform just in case a real opportunity comes your way and you don’t have an ep or an album out instead of just 1 song. With the 3 singles you release see how people react to it. It keeps people engaged to. What do you think ?

[@Etherealtheband]

Hey Damian. I don't see why anyone wouldn't agree with releasing singles. I think a lot of bands don't realize the struggle they will be faced with on the marketing side. It's very hard to break through, no matter how good your band is. You will most likely not do this organically. New music isn't shared like a funny cat video. I think it's best to release singles and keep your content on a schedule. I also like the idea of creating an EP but releasing it as singles. That way you can keep your content current but have something for your top fans to purchase and support at the end of the cycle. Also magazines and blogs post about bands that helps them gain an audience. Until a band makes it to a certain level of fame no one wants to post about them.

[@DeadCell795]

Hey I commented on your old video on EPs and you directed me towards this and I'm glad you did bc I have a better understanding of your opinion on it. Singles are great, but to kinda defend EPs I'd rather listen to 5 good songs than 1 good song or 12 alright songs. Short releases when taken seriously and made well can help get the attention of those who might not have the attention span to listen to a whole new album but also people who want more content. Its all a content game. I'd rather watch a 12 min video like this one than a 3 min video. Thank you again for directing me to this tho this one definitely made me think about it a lot more

[@DamianKeyes]

Thank you so much for taking the time to watch this one dude. It was my fault for making a rant video and not explaining myself well.

[@DeadCell795]

@@DamianKeyes it started the discussion though and got lots of people thinking about it so I'd say both are good videos on the subject

[@thefullsuns]

Thank you so much for the insight. I had watched your earlier vid on this subject & it has changed everything! I feel that my creative energy is much more concentrated by thinking of releasing singles. What a paradigm shift. The songs get more attention and i feel like giving them all that i got as far as creativity goes. Thanks again and can't wait to share the tunes i been working on.- Esai

[@DamianKeyes]

Thank you so much.. make sure you send them my way so I can have a listen 🙂🙂

[@PlanetIbiza]

Absolutely correct! Logical thinking is the key and Damian explains this in a perfect and simple way. Congratulations

[@ashworthwiltshire7446]

I agree with you. Releasing singles is a good promotional strategy in today’s market for independent artist. Save the EPs and LPs for merchandise available on your website and merch table after you gain a bit of traction.

[@alihaggis78]

Interesting viewpoint. I agree that For a new band wanting to build a fan base that singles are the way to go if you're mainly selling your stuff on the internet. However if you have say 40 gigs through the year and want to shift merch and CDs you absolutely need more than a couple of singles to flog. This is where the EP has it's place. Albums are for big bands though and they nearly always include an EPs worth of filler tracks. So why bother with them early in the life of the band? So my opinion is Start with singles until you're gigging regularly and getting on medium sized festivals. Once you're gigging a lot you should move to EPs to sell at shows and through your website. If you want a little more mileage out of your EPs then roll two previously released ones together and release them on a short run of vinyl.

[@TheRazRiot]

Foo Fighters was a great pick, as they even did a TV show to promote an album, explaining the story behind each song (Sonic Highways). Clearly even they are having to be more creative with everything too. I think the biggest issue is definitely the lack of creativity around everything, when we have the formats to be creative right in our hands. Basically, we should make our socials our albums to an extent. Something I have considered for a while now is how people complain about not having album art or sleeves anymore, yet they could be making equivalent to it in social media posts. They could even be selling album lyric booklets as a separate profitable products! The latter is maybe a stretch for small bands just starting off, but there are plenty of semi to well established bands that would be a brilliant option for. Marketing and merchandising has always been a big deal in music, yet so many people are going around acting like it's a new and terrible thing. It is just mainly in our hands now, and most of us are never going to have the marketing teams folk had behind them back in "the good olé days". I am totally with you on this, even if a band chooses to release an EP or Album, they've got to structure a plan around it, document the story, and really give their audience something to dig into.

[@JoeyLeeDrums]

Ok man I commented on your other video and you linked me to this one. I understand more what you're saying now. In the other video the message I was getting from it is "don't release an EP, but albums are cool" but I think your take on singles is 100% right. We're in a different era. Take The Chainsmokers for example, I've never heard of them before their couple massive singles a couple years ago. They skyrocketed up the charts (Closer has around 1.5B streams on spotify) HOWEVER, when they put out their full record, it was garbage. I think my strategy would be to release singles strategically spaced out, get some traction, build an audience with those singles. I'd even say to wait til the audience is saying things like "Where's the album?" "We want tour dates," etc. During the time that those singles are releasing, finish the record (the act should already have those 2 or 3 leading singles done). Then when the singles are out and people are interested and want the record, finalize the other 8 or 9 tracks on the album, and announce the release date. Sorry for the long comment but what I'm taking away from this is that you gotta build the audience and make THEM ask YOU for your music, instead of YOU asking THEM to listen to it. Awesome vid

[@DamianKeyes]

Thanks so much Joe 🙂

[@DryMyTears]

Very good points. Thank you. We'll probably release more singles. Good idea.

[@MichaelBLive]

Right on. Following this advice immediately! Great stuff.

[@yonahayoli9682]

This is actually very smart strategy. After listening to the first video this popped up. Here is what I’ve been seeing. You make more money independent off streaming and can create bigger buzz off smaller moves. Then capitalize off of social media making sure you’re on your audience’s mind and they feel attached to you more than just the guy or girl on stage. The streaming pays you via advertising and pay in memberships. This frees up cash in your audience pool for merch. So once you do get the buzz you want and get to touring focus on merch. Especially limited edition stuff. People are unique and want unique stuff not mass produced generic stuff. I’m more willing to go with a shirt with a logo or color that resonates with me versus a band I like that everyone has the same exact shirt of if I’m truly being honest and I haven’t bought an album in five years. It’s been KZbin, Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, etc

[@supernova10dave]

Littraly was about to release an Ep but this makes so much sence to realise the songs individually. Grate advice found your channel so helpful 👍 nice one.

[@jheronimusduko7998]

Good point, If your goal is to play live multiple singles will be a way better promotion for your band. After your explanation, I have to agree. On the other hand. I really like albums from a creative perspective. Each song can tell a chapter of a whole story. As creators of art a album can be your canvas. If that's your strength please keep on doing what you do best and don't let these things influence your creativity too much.

[@WayDownTheRainbow]

Hey! We are following this advice and it's working really good!! At first we were convinced that letting out an album was the best, even though we didn't know why, but we are defiantly releasing singles. Also seen many of our friends releasing albums and EP's that has gone really bad. It also much easier to come into spotify playlists with singles as well!

[@VeganBrainFood]

Thanks brother, was literally just deliberating on this now!

[@ThatULITouch]

LOVE this! Don't exhaust the creative. 💙🙌🏼

[@texasdrummer87]

I just discovered your videos and I swear I've been preaching this to my bands for nearly a decade. We've never had anything to consume aside from CDs(which inventory outlasted the group) and seeing us live. I'm in a new band and I've finally convinced them that 2020 is the year we follow my strategy and create consistent, consumable content. Keep it up man! I appreciate the value you're bringing.

[@DamianKeyes]

texasdrummer87 thanks so much dude, are you in Texas? We’re currently in NASA 😊

[@texasdrummer87]

@@DamianKeyes Thanks for the response! I am in Texas, home sweet home. Enjoy NASA, man! Merry Christmas and I look forward to more of your sound advice for musiciasns(pun intended).

[@DamianKeyes]

texasdrummer87 thanks so much dude 😊😊

[@WillMaskellTaylor]

This actually makes so much sense. I've just started watching your videos Damian and I've subbed, cos honestly these are the most useful videos on this subject that ive found. I would say though, in genres like hardcore or certain genres of metal, EP's are definitely worth it, however, they are a minority, the fans are usually really dedicated and love finding new music through albums and EPs

[@Riki_Tree]

I think you're right! nowadays the music industry is based on singles. Back in the days when X band released an album and you just like a song out of that album, you were forced to buy the entire album just to listen to that song. Now, the big bands, as you said, can afford to release a full album cause they have all the stuff that you said available. but for new bands is difficult as it request a lot of effort and money.

[@TheGourmetRabbit]

You're hilarious. I love your videos, great info! Thank you mate!

[@NilsHedstrom]

Good tips but in my band's situation I would guess an EP isn't too bad. We haven't released anything yet and are not gigging but have about 16 demo songs that are more or less complete. So we are thinking to release an EP of 4-5 songs. Later on, we can just release more singles and eventually an album.

[@TheKristoferos]

Its just the knowledge i was looking for. Thank You!

[@Just-Michael]

So from the perspective of the audience, a single is much easier to digest. If you're going through your friends list and you say "Hey here's my/ our new song, take a listen", that's only 3 or 4 minutes of their time. If you say "Hey, here's my new EP/ Album" they think "Aw shit, now I have to listen to a lot more and I don't have the time for that/ Don't feel like it. In that respect, it makes it a lot easier for people to grab onto it and put it in their playlist, therefore growing your fanbase. However I love a good album. I don't have Spotify (my music is on it but I could care less about using it), I'm a buyer of music. In fact I just bought a couple songs today because a new album came out from a Japanese group that I like. At the same time though, progressive metal is thriving off of albums at the moment. Guys releasing hour long instrumental albums and they get thousands of views. It all depends what you're going for but in a general sense, the idea you propose of singles is much more effective. I like listening to albums so I'ma keep making albums in the off chance that maybe others do too. I just like making music. :P

[@DamianKeyes]

Yeah Mike, I defo think some genres lend themselves to albums and EP's more than others

[@marcod.porter9807]

We all want to have an album or EP for sure. But for us DIY dudes it's not a financially viable option. The single release is far better. As Damo says, it's best to repeat the process of singles releases instead.

[@KeyJayHD]

Gotta say that in the few videos I've seen of you, I really like your approach and I think it helps clarify what I've been thinking about for a while in my view of content strategy. Looking forward to more strategies like this in the future. Thanks for the help! :)

[@olijomusic2481]

Thank you for this advice. I had been wondering a lot if I should release an EP or singles, but this video helped me to decide that it's maybe better to release singles and use them to build fanbase before releasing any EPs or albums.

[@scottrossgirvan8009]

This is brilliant mate... exhaust the creative. Makes perfect sense.

[@BikkiBlazes]

Wsup Damien, Hope you had a great weekend. Yes this vid certainly added context; seems we're at symatics now on the marketing strategy. A band should record an EP or album and then drip it on the public one single at a time. It depends on the cash to record however many good songs. So theres a front side and proprietary rights side of things. in this case the EP would be the 'only sell at the tour concerts as limited edition CD with a few extra tracks/covers) . At the end of the tour , release the album. Your contrast of band names definitely raised an eyebrow here. I prefer energetic metal and techno . Going to have to say EP can work for high bpm thats so different that 5 songs might be all they can handle. Right now Foo Fighters is the next Eagles. Theres was Jim Thorpe band back in the day named Turmoil that is so index case how nongenre support is as necessary as seeking the target audience. It depends on the pulverization factor and how many songs won't slip into the obscurity bin as 'more of the same, not terribly self noteable". It depends on Genre. An album guarantees promoters a certain amount of stage time so they might really get benefits from that long form. (as long as a sufficiently number of songs hold their own and don't merely snooze a band typecast). It probably also depends on the originating area. Digital music sales probably level that so theres a third matter .. also marketing.. " how good is the bands founding story?" People love a good story. if its in a song.. badda bing ;

[@girlinagale]

I release albums but if there are five long tracks (an hour of music) it gets labelled as an EP. I have albums (running time 45mins) but because there are eight tracks that's an album.

[@henryhardt5816]

Very persuasive, well-thought out, practical and helpful! Thank you.

[@DamianKeyes]

Henry Hardt thanks Henry, I felt like this video was much more articulate than the rant about selling EP’s which I didn’t make my point at all well

[@theZambianTeddyBear]

Thank you Damian, you really help me in my musical career. Love all the way from zambia 🇿🇲 in Africa. Hope one day to get you to a point where you can listen to my music too

[@notefornote3972]

Following on from the last video, I still hold true to the idea that it doesn't matter what you call it when you release it, single, EP, Album, Collection, Concept Album, Concept EP, Concept Single? Video Album... etc etc etc. Many friends of mine whom release albums/ep/singles, all do the same thing you described in this video, following the formula of "here is my new song" then a day later "here is the video" then a day later "here is the one blog that wrote a piece" etc. Until 2 weeks has passed and they have nothing to say about it anymore.. They never stand out from everyone else releasing music in the same way because they never approach the "marketing/strategy" side of things in their own original way. I ask them why did you release it in that way, and they say "it's just the way it's done" and I tell them "it doesn't have to be" It is something I struggled with for a long time with my own music. Until I realised I could approach it creatively, making it all part of the art, making everything tie in with each other, like another brush in the tool of the artist. Turn the most corporate side of the release cycle into art all on it's own. I agree with this video and have always been under the impression that releasing regular singles are a fantastic way of building an audience, and looking as if you are continuing to do things at a better pace, and that they probably are more beneficial for the artist starting out. But it is worthless unless you have thought about how "YOU" want to release it and market it. I still think that it doesn't have to just be singles though, it's all about the intent of how you want to release something. For example instead calling it an EP why not call it a Trilogy of Singles (Stagger the releases and then release the body of work at the end). All "marketing" jargon that blogs/mags etc... can grab onto. Something meaty that they will be more likely to write about, and something that could grab the attention of your audience. I think every facet of the release should be creative, make your song great, make a recording that represents your vision for the music, make the video/s cheaply or over the top expensive, make the release strategy intriguing use it as art tool, put on shows that are different from normal shows, release a stripped down acoustic version, release a demo version... every aspect should tell your story, put your artistic flair into all aspects, because we have the control of it all now. Just get the music out there in your way, and get it out regularly. You can make and release music "almost" for free now, everyone has a phone with recording capabilities. Just hit upload, and get on the road. It will eventually hit the right ears.

[@DamianKeyes]

+notefornote love this message, thanks for taking the time to watch with an open mind and reply. If I can help with anything let me know 😊😊😊

[@notefornote3972]

Damian Keyes thanks for replying and interacting with me, tell me this what’s your mission statement with your KZbin channel? What are you all about?

[@musicinsession]

Again, another great video! This is ALL true! And it's even sadder if you record an EP (or even an album) with nobody knowing you. You spend 5~10K, launch it without a strategy and it's like launching a grenade deep in the ocean! It's heart breaking! People listen to what he is saying, these are really good points! 90% of bands will end before even starting because of just this! Another idea, is to still release an EP and push every song in that EP as if it was a single. Since nobody gives two shits about your EP, you can continue to re-release stuff because basically nobody will know! EP with 3 songs? Fine make 3 music videos! There is just too much music out there for people to give you the privilege of spending their time listening to your music! so you need to keep bombarding them until they say: "ok fuck it, let's see this crap"

[@tripled227]

Definitely better explained than the last video and makes more sense.Thanks for clarifying your point.

[@DamianKeyes]

Triple_D thanks for giving it a watch 😊

[@BillyMoonMan]

Inspiring! Wasted a few waves trying to record an e.p.Thanks man!

[@LTProdigy]

Naturally, he's right. Thought I'd learn something new but yeah this is essentially what I'll be doing. Releasing singles and marketing those singles like crazy one by one, once the momentum goes down on one, release another single. By time you have enough singles out there to make an album, turn it all into one project and put it on spotify as if it's an album with a few bonus tracks. By then you should have gotten enough momentum to be able (if marketed correctly and the songs are solid) to do a normal 3 single and then album type of thing. But only once you've got true fans that are hyped for it, and who you know will purchase it and help you push it out.

[@DamianKeyes]

LT Prodigy 😊 thanks and if I can help with anything hit me up. I am working on a 30 day course/playlist for a real time lead up to a release. Hopefully it should be on KZbin in the next few weeks 😊

[@LTProdigy]

@@DamianKeyes for sure, I'll hit you up on instagram soon. I'm differently looking forward to the course, you make a lot of really solid points in your videos.

[@hhectorlector]

What’s the last album you bought? Listened to? And you listened to ALL the tracks? How many times did you do that? Answers to those questions aren’t usually very promising. EPs ftw

[@robertoalvarezguitar]

if we go to see the storys of many of the new artist of this days we can see that a lot of them has this in common, they start with singles, like Alan Walker with Faded, Ed Maverick from Mexico, if someone know more examples please tell, i think real cases are the only way to prove which is the best option in each case

[@samanthawolvertonmusic]

This is a really well thought out theory. It makes a lot of sense. People really need to think through their goals and what paths they have for marketing their music.

[@DamianKeyes]

Thank you 🙂🙂🙂

[@isaaccontreras4819]

Hi, Damian! I came from the video STOP MAKING EP'S. I think your strategy is brilliant and I'm decided to applying it. I'll release the songs as singles, now my next step is deciding the order of the singles, guessing the most kicking ass single being the penultimate or maybe the last release. Once I finished the release of each single I'll start the corwdfunding campaign. Thanks a lot for sharing your Knowledge.

[@DamianKeyes]

Thank you so much Isaac

[@mjpayne899]

I've been starting to think this way. Recording an album is looking like a giant mountain to climb, I think I just want to go on a few little hikes.

[@mk-1901]

I think being in-line with your overall goal and long-term vision should also dictate a bit of your strategy. I feel like this whole market-driven single strategy cultivates an audience that doesn't care enough or lack the attention span that wouldn't give your album a listen front to back anyway. Maybe I might be incorrect but I am seeing a lot of one-hit-wonders as a result of this strategy. I feel I can tell better stories and provide my audience with a packaged experience that's 10-20 minutes long and they can just come back to songs they liked the most in it. I understand you need to make statements and tell stories, however, making albums/EPs feel like a better format for that than a single.

[@JonConStudio]

5:50 Grandad should have really taken KZbin seriously!

[@DamianKeyes]

LOL Yeah he should!! Loving your channel work at the moment dude. You are going to be smashing youtube with your production and mixing advice!