5 Steps to Consider When Creating Your Own Voice and Style

As an independent musician, finding your unique voice and style can be the key to success in an industry that’s constantly evolving. While there’s no magic formula for creating a signature sound, there are steps you can take to hone in on your style and stand out from the crowd. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can find your unique voice and style as an unsigned musician. We’ll take a look at the Beastie Boys as a prime example of artists who found their distinct sound through experimentation and authenticity.

1. Listen to a variety of music

One of the best ways to find your unique voice and style is to listen to a diverse range of music. Experiment with different genres and sub-genres, and take note of what stands out to you. Pay attention to the aspects of the music that appeal to you – this could be anything from the rhythm to the lyrics to the production. Try to incorporate those elements into your music, while also adding your personal touch. This will help you create a sound that is truly your own.

2. Collaborate with other musicians

Collaborating with other musicians can help you find your unique style by exposing you to new ideas and perspectives. Seek out musicians who have a different style than you, and see how you can meld your sounds together. This can lead to the creation of something truly unique and special. Additionally, collaborating can also help you push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things.

3. Be authentic  

Authenticity is key to finding your unique voice and style. Don’t try to imitate other artists or follow trends – instead, stay true to yourself and let your own experiences and emotions guide your music. Your personal story and perspective are what make you stand out from other musicians, so embracing that will help create a distinct sound. This will help you connect with your audience on a deeper level, and allow you to stand out in a sea of generic music.

4. Embrace the power of experimentation

The Beastie Boys are a great example of artists who found their unique style through experimentation. They blended different genres and sounds together to create something completely new and fresh. Don’t be afraid to try new things in your music – this can help you find your signature style and push the boundaries of what’s expected. Let yourself be open to new ideas and techniques, and see where they take you. 

5. Continuously evolve

Once you’ve found your unique voice and style, don’t stop there. The music industry is constantly evolving, and it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and sounds. Continuously evolve your style and experiment with new techniques and sounds. This will keep your music fresh and relevant, and allow you to continue standing out in the industry.

Finding your unique voice and style as an unsigned musician can be a challenging and rewarding journey. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to experiment and be authentic. By listening to a variety of music, collaborating with other musicians, embracing experimentation, and continuously evolving, you can find your signature sound and stand out in a crowded industry. 

Want to take a deeper dive into creating your career plan? Create and communicate a powerful brand identity that accurately reflects their unique music career with my masterclass called “Become the CEO of Your Music Career” and launch your career in four weeks or less.