Over the course of time, many bands and artists have been ruined by either trying to conform to the most current sound, or letting the labels play with their sound and style. It doesn't always happen, and has dwindled in recent years. The problem with trying to suit the big boys is a lot of times the artists will compromise their integrity just to get the big "deal", rushing into a contract simply because they are giving you a deal can tremendously hurt the style you've worked (in most cases) for years to create. My first question is, if a label is willing to sign you, they were obviously impressed, and who better to know the style they are comfortable with than the artists themselves.

The thing that is most disappointing is it seems to leave the artists fans feeling as though they've been abandoned. Check and see precisely what the label is offering, and what they expect from you before signing any contracts, the simple fact to consider, is it really worth losing your persona just simply to sell more music? Obviously some think so as they will ink the deal right out of the gate simply because it was offered. The best deal in the world is not going to soothe the future feelings of regret you will feel in the future.

Do not try and conform to the latest trends simply because you may feel if you sound like everyone else it would help you fit in. I am reminded of a couple of my favorite bands, KISS did it in the late 70s on the Dynasty album when the hard rock group added disco music to the sound of the album. This hurt the band as legions of KISS Army members couldn't figure out why the band would do that to them, although the fans eventually returned many were skeptical of all the future music KISS would create.

The example just goes to show that it may cost you dearly. Some of the best bands around are the ones who play what they feel rather than kowtowing to try and fit in the round holes all designed for them. I feel it is better to be a square peg that knows they can't fit in the round hole and keep your originality. Being unique in your style is not a bad thing, on the contrary, If you stand out in an overcrowded room rather than blending in the background you have a better chance of being noticed.

To end this short rant, I would like to ask if you are an artist or in a band, just play what comes naturally rather than trying to fit someone else's idea of who you should be, after all you're the one who will have to live with yourself and your music when all is said and done. Keep the music real and in touch with the  vision of your future and you will be much more satisfied when you look back on your project in the future. If your style and image for yourself mean you may have to wait a bit longer before signing a contract at least you will have the piece of mind that you are creating the music YOU want to create.

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