Q&A: Michael Coates, SFT Records
Blog by Molly Jones under Record Labels
Manchester music’s movers and shakers give us their unique perspective on the best (and worst) of working with unsigned acts…
Michael Coates owned an indie label for six years and has experience putting on gigs for both signed and unsigned acts.
Favourite Manchester bands: Dutch Uncles, The Answering Machine, Everything Everything
What’s the best way for unsigned bands to approach you?
Politely and quickly with a CD-R.
How can they make an impression?
Manners go a long way!
What’s you biggest bugbear when it comes to dealing with unsigned bands?
Most unsigned bands have no sense of quality control; chances are your first demo is awful and you need time to develop as musicians and songwriters.
Top tip for unsigned bands:
When you start out, don't keep sending sh*t demos off to labels just because you're excited you have a CD; you'll get a reputation for being crap before you've really found your way. Be objective - does anyone other than your mates think you're any good?
Tags
sft records, science fiction theatre records, manchester music, independent record labels
