Advice on first steps for publishing material?

[Mr. Liszt]

Hello all,

Can anyone recommend what avenues I can explore in the pursuit of publishing my pop compositions? Some thus far, though no one in the know exactly, have suggested contacting a music attorney. I have no idea who though if this is a legitimate step.

I currently have a portfolio of about 25 recorded, produced and copyrighted songs in genres such as retro-pop, modern-rock, indie/alternative, singer-songwriter, y'alternative (hack country,) and unique but also commercially appealing tracks.

As a writer I work everyday. While I prefer unique but appealing pop music the most, I enjoy and am quite able to write, produce and perform in every style and churn out a few dozen songs per week. Not all obviously make it to production.

I would like to place some of my existing material in television or wherever appropriate and would consider to try my hand as a staff writer for a publisher of any genre for a time.

Any advice on my first step in this pursuit is greatly appreciated. I would gladly compensate any individual of experience here that would be willing to consult with me further on this matter.

Thanks!

[Bob Olhsson]

Probably the most important first step is to learn the lingo so that you know what people are talking about. Take a look at Knowledge Is Power

[BevvyB]

As Bob said, it comes down to what you mean, publishing as a term has it's own connotations

You don't necessarily have to 'publish' your stuff for people to be able to hear it. In fact, if your stuff is 'not published' then it can be better in some ways - it means you have complete control over the material and can 'sell' it to whoever you want and do deals on a song per song basis

If you mean publish as in 'get my songs in front of a wider audience' then a publishing deal can help you do that, but again, depends who you sign to, if they actually work your tracks etc

There are more and more things you can do on your own without a publisher nowadays. You may want to look at License Music - YouLicense - The Online Music Licensing Marketplace as a way of getting your stuff heard by people looking to use songs and music in broadcast, or Pump Audio | Welcome or www.ricall.com

The bottom line is, at the start, no one can push your own tracks with as much time, dedication and committment as you yourself.