Who do you make your music for right now? *

I don’t know / everyone

I have a vague idea (age/genre only)

I can describe my audience but don’t target them consistently

I target a clear niche (demographic + vibe + platform)

I target a niche + I can prove it (content, ads, analytics)

Example: “sad R&B for late-night drives” beats “everyone.”

Can you describe your artist brand in one sentence? *

I can’t explain it

I explain it differently every time

Some consistency but not tight

Clear and repeatable

Clear + it shows in visuals, content, and music

Example: “trap gospel motivation” is clearer than “versatile artist.”

What are your current goals? *Example: “touring in Texas” vs “blow up.”

Do your visuals + content match your music and brand consistently? * Example: your IG should “feel like” your sound.

How frequent do you release music? * Example: momentum beats perfection

How many “ready-to-drop” songs do you have? * Example: having 6–10 finished tracks gives leverage.

For a new release, what do you do within the 7 days before drop? *Example: teasers, pre-save, content, DM outreach.

How consistent are you with your recording/mix/master quality? * Example: “car test” + referencing pro mixes.

Do you track splits/ownership for all your song? *Example: if you can’t prove splits, you can’t enforce money.

Do you collect fan emails or phone numbers? * Example: if IG disappears tomorrow, do you still reach fans?

How often do you message your fan list? * Example: artists who email monthly sell more without “going viral.”

How consistent is your short-form content (Reels/TikTok/Shorts)? *Example: 3–5 posts/week beats one “perfect” post.

When people see your content, what do you ask them to do? * Example: “pre-save” / “join text list” / “buy merch”

Are you running ads or boosting content strategically? *Example: $5/day with targeting beats random boosts.

Do you use analytics to decide what to post/release? *Example: watch time + saves tell you what to double down on.

Are you making money from music right now? * Example: any consistent income = you’re already in business.

How many income streams do you actively have? * Examples: shows, merch, royalties, services, sync, features.

Do you have merch that actually sells? * Example: one strong design + good photos beats 10 weak items.

Do you have a clear offer (product/service) with pricing? *Example: features, studio services, beats, lessons, VIP packages.

What’s your live strategy right now? *Example: a paid local circuit is still a strategy.

Are you registered where money gets collected? *

Not registered anywhere

Registered in one place only

Registered in most places but unsure

Registered properly and understand basics

Registered + metadata correct + checks tracked

Examples: PRO (ASCAP/BMI), SoundExchange, MLC, distro.

Do you operate like a business legally/financially? *

No structure

Personal-only, no separation

Some separation (CashApp/PayPal)

Separate banking + basic bookkeeping

Entity + banking + bookkeeping + taxes planned

Example: separate bank account = you’re serious.

Do you use contracts for collaboration/paid work? * Example: a simple agreement prevents 90% of artist drama.

Do you understand what you own (masters/publishing)? * Example: “owning your masters” means nothing if you can’t exploit them.

How many hours/week do you put into the business side? *Example: 5 focused hours beats 20 scattered.

Do you have a system to manage releases and tasks? *Example: calendar + checklist + deadlines.

Who helps you execute right now? * Example: editor + engineer + designer = speed.

Do you budget and reinvest into growth? *Example: $50/week into ads/tools compounds faster than “hoping.”