Oakland Records USA: A Resource for the Independent Artist

Oakland Records USA is a vehicle for the independent music artist. Tom "Tommy" Held (our founder) set up Oakland Records just at the start of this millenium. His goal was to take his and other's expertise in the music industry and combine all of it to create a comprehensive and affordable consulting service to new artists.

What We Are Not

While Oakland Records USA does have label and distribution deals with several artists, the primary focus for us here is helping to manage new artists. We are not sitting here waiting for you to send us your demo and then launch your career for you. Rather, we are here to offer you all the tools and advice you need to launch your career - yourself!

So, Are You Serious?

One of the first key pieces of advice we will give you for free is to ask yourself (and the rest of your act) how serious you are and what sacrifices you are willing to make to compete in a very competitive industry. Can you and your members endure being on the road? Are you willing to spend what is needed to promote yourself? Will you spend the time that is necessary to make the improvements that are needed to get you to the next level? If you have your doubts, then perhap you need not go further.

Do You Know What You Want?

Hey, it seems like an easy question, but you would be surprised to know how many artists do not know *specifically* what they wish to accomplish in their music career - except to say they wish to be 'successful', or 'popular', or just 'rich and famous'. Do you wish to license your songs to another artist? Do you wish to write, perform, or both? If you are a songwriter, where would you be willing to license your material? Movies, television, video games, commercials? Have you really thought about it? If you have not, then you should. Because music industry professionals will appreciate those artists who do know what exactly they want.

Well then, Come On In! Check Us Out!

We knew you were serious or you would not have read this far. We have no guarantee to offer you. We have no promise of fame or riches. And, any success you have will surely only require more work on your part. We're just here to offer you some of the tools you will need to succeed. It is our sincere hope that, if you don't find the support your music career needs here, that you will find it somewhere.

Tom "Tommy" Held's Resume