2025 – The Chicago Musician’s Roadmap
Building a career in music takes more than just skill—it’s about having a clear plan and following through. To help, I’ve created the Free DIY Musician’s Resource Packet. It’s packed with tools, including a list of over 800 independent media outlets where you can submit your music, templates for press releases, music venue outreach, artist outreach, and more. It also includes Chicago-specific music venues and media outlet contacts. If this sounds like what you need, use the form at the bottom of the page.
The Plan
This year, we’re focusing on two 4-song EPs and one 8-song album. Along the way, you’ll be playing live as often as possible. Here’s how to break it down, using the tools and resources available:
Recording Schedule
December/January
- Using the Recording Schedule Sheet: Craft 2–3 songs a month for your first EP, set to release in March.
- Using the Live Show Booking Calendar: Start booking shows in December and January for March and April. This calendar maps out every week of the year to help you stay organized and consistent.
February/March
- Using the Music Promotion Schedule Tab: Begin promoting your first EP with the week-by-week guide to maintaining buzz and visibility.
- Using the Recording Schedule Sheet: Keep crafting 1–3 songs monthly for your second EP and the full album.
February to May
- Using the Recording Schedule Sheet: Work on your second 4-song EP, scheduled for a June release, and start creating tracks for your October album.
- Using the Live Show Booking Calendar: Book shows for May through August to stay visible in the Chicago music scene.
May/June
- Using the Music Promotion Schedule Tab: Promote your second EP leading up to its June release.
- Using the Recording Schedule Sheet: Continue recording and refining tracks for your full album.
June to August
- Using the Recording Schedule Sheet: Finish crafting the remaining songs for your October album.
- Using the Live Show Booking Calendar: Book shows for September through December. Chicago comes alive in the summer, making it the perfect time to connect with new audiences.
- Using the Music Promotion Schedule Tab: Start your five-month album promotion campaign in July to build anticipation for the October release.
September to December
- Using the Live Show Booking Calendar: Dive into your fall performances and celebrate the progress you’ve made.
- Using the Music Promotion Schedule Tab: Wrap up your promotional efforts and prepare to start the cycle again for 2026.
The Chicago Connection
At Untold Stories Recordings, I’ve worked with countless musicians who pour their hearts into every note. The Chicago musical community around my music studio is unlike any other—it’s about capturing the energy of live instruments, the warmth of analog tones, and the honesty in your performance. Whether you’re working on an intimate acoustic set or a full-band album, there’s no better place to make it happen.
Chicago’s music scene thrives on collaboration and passion. It’s not about chasing trends but about creating something real. Let’s make 2025 the year you bring your music to life, one track, one show, and one story at a time.
