5 Must-Have Tools Every Independent Artist Needs

Breaking into the music industry isn’t just about having a killer verse or a catchy hook - it’s about preparation, consistency, and playing the long game. While talent is your foundation, there are a few essentials every artist should have in their toolkit to take their career seriously.

First up, you need an Electronic Press Kit (EPK). Think of it as your digital business card - a polished, professional snapshot of who you are as an artist. Whether you’re reaching out to blogs, playlist curators, or potential collaborators, having an EPK makes you look like someone who actually knows what they’re doing (because, spoiler alert, confidence and presentation matter almost as much as your music). If you don't have one already then check out our Products page to find a customisable template you can purchase.

Next, grab yourself a notebook - physical, digital, or both. This isn’t just for writing lyrics (though of course that’s key), it’s where you map out song release strategies, jot down creative ideas, plan collabs, or even sketch your artist branding ideas. Some of the best artists I know carry one everywhere - inspiration doesn’t follow a 9–5 schedule.

Of course, you’ll need a way to actually make music, so whether it’s BandLab on your phone or a full DAW on your laptop, having a reliable setup at home is non-negotiable. Even if you’re starting small, having the ability to experiment, record demos, and craft your sound whenever inspiration strikes is a game-changer.

Another must-have? A pitching template and press release kit. Even if you’re just emailing a blog or sending a track to a playlist, having a professional template makes the process way easier and gives you that polished edge that most unsigned artists don’t have. It’s the difference between landing opportunities and getting lost in someone’s inbox.

Finally, it might sound obvious, but a music subscription service like Spotify is essential - and not just for streaming your own tracks. Listening widely and studying music across genres is a secret weapon. Analyse beats, hooks, lyrics, and production techniques from other artists. Treat your listening sessions like research; inspiration often comes from places you’d least expect.

Building a music career is about combining creativity with strategy, and these five essentials give you a solid foundation to do just that. Whether you’re writing, producing, or pitching your tracks, having the right tools and habits in place will help you take your music seriously - and, most importantly, make other people take it seriously too.