Crossroads

I’ve been studying and practicing production for a couple of years now. Started multiple projects then stopped when I realized I needed to learn more. I’m finally comfortable with my DAW, and have decent understanding of music theory and can create and design several elements of a track to give it a distinct but not extremely foreign sound. I’m confident I can make a good quality track within a week at this point (and that’s with the few hours I have at home in the middle of the night after life is lifeing).

This year’s goal is to create 18 tracks (minimum). I completed my January project, sent it out to producer friends for feedback. Made changes and sent it out to master so I can move on to the next. I’m happy with the song, I’ve played it at clubs and send it to friends, everyone had a positive reaction and friends provided constructive criticism. It got the dancer floor moving In the clubs and even had a few people ask what the song was.

I wanted to blast demos to record labels but after some research online that seems to be a bad idea. I don’t have any releases at the moment but I’ve been DJing for half my life and have a pretty good network and following in the NYC area.

My question is, should I keep this song, and future songs that work well with my test group, in an unreleased folder until I find a way to get a record label’s A&R’s ear? Or Should I independently release to get some traction on Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube and Etc? Then go back to step one?