For many producers, landing a release with Defected Records is a dream. But with countless demos submitted daily, it’s difficult to figure out what to do to make your submission stand out.
In a recent Defected newsletter shared with EDM.com, the label’s Director of Music, Andy Daniell, shared his insights into the A&R process and answered key questions about what makes a track stand out, how demos are evaluated, why artists often misjudge their own best work and more.
Read on to discover Daniell’s tips on how artists can stand out to imprints like Defected, which in 2022 was named by EDM.com as the year’s best record label.
Andy Daniell/Instagram
A&R decisions happen fast
With the sheer volume of music coming in, A&R professionals simply don’t have time to listen to every track in full. Much like crate-digging for vinyl, Daniell says he needle-drops through tracks, skipping intros and jumping straight to the energy. If an arrangement doesn’t grab attention immediately, it’s passed over.
“You’ll feel the production quality, the feel, tone, direction of the audio very quickly, and if it’s removed from what we do as a label, you move on,” he explained. “Likewise if it’s feeling relevant and exciting we listen in more depth. It’s the same as record shopping, you know from the preview clip if you’re curious to hear more.”
Producers often misjudge their own best work
Many artists assume they know which track will get them signed, but according to Daniell, that’s rarely the case. This is why it’s crucial to send a well-rounded selection rather than banking on one track. Sometimes, the one you least expect is the one that stands out.
“There are loads of elements that make a Defected track to me,” he said. “Great original songs, standout club tracks, exciting hooks, funk, soul, are all elements I resonate with, but every single track is different. Quite often it’s the track artists least expect that I end up resonating with over the one they think is Defected.”
How to make your demo stand out
Presentation matters just as much as the music itself. Daniell stresses the importance of keeping demo submissions concise and professional: a short introduction, a functional streaming link, links to social pages and a well-curated selection of tracks. These “best practices” are crucial, he said.
“I would keep information relatively concise, maybe a paragraph about who you are, what you’re sending and why,” he explained. “When sharing the audio, I personally prefer a streamable link with a download option. PLEASE CHECK YOUR LINK WORKS. You would be amazed how many dead/private links I get.”
“I would also recommend keeping your music focused when sharing. I’d say a maximum of four tracks that you feel best represents your artistry. If an A&R is curious they will absolutely be asking for more music. Also share a link to your relevant social pages, again if the music makes us curious we’ll be wanting to dig deeper to understand more about you and this makes that super easy. Even if the music isn’t right I’ll often follow artists I’m curious about to ensure I keep an eye on what they are doing moving forward.”
Sample clearance isn’t always a dealbreaker
While many labels reject tracks containing uncleared samples outright, Defected takes a more flexible approach.
“I’m always a believer in the creativity leading the business, not the other way around,” Daniell said. “After 20 years or so of figuring out clearances I’ve got a reasonably good sense of what is achievable, where we might run into issues, impact on the business side of the record so can hopefully have a highly informed conversation with the artist about the best steps forward. If the record is good I’ll want to figure out the sample.”
Getting signed is just the beginning
Even if a demo isn’t signed immediately, it doesn’t mean the door is closed. Daniell frequently keeps tabs on promising artists, following their progress.
For producers looking to get noticed, the takeaway is clear: be professional, stay consistent and submit polished, original music. The track that lands you a deal might not be the one you expect—but if it brings something fresh, it won’t go unnoticed.
At the end of the day, putting in the effort is just as important as raw talent. Taking the time to refine your production, craft a strong submission and understand what makes a track stand out can make all the difference. Storied record labels like Defected aren’t just looking for a single good record, but seeking out artists with vision, longevity and dedication. A signing is just the beginning—the real challenge is proving you have what it takes to stay.
Follow Defected Records:
X: x.com/defectedrecords
Instagram: instagram.com/defectedrecords
TikTok: tiktok.com/@defectedrecords
Facebook: facebook.com/defectedrecords