Behind the Music: Talent Scouting Tips and What Truly Stands Out Today
Hi, I am JJ Goenen, Artist Scout at Claudia eRecords — an international Record Label with offices in the UK, Germany and Australia.
When I tell people what I do, I usually get the same question: “So, how do you find new artists?”
The truth is, scouting today is both easier and more complex than ever. I am constantly exploring — checking playlists, discovering creators on TikTok and Instagram, scanning newsletters, listening to demos and digging through online communities where emerging talent shines. I am drawn to artists who sound original, have something to say and show that spark that makes you stop scrolling.
Of course, I can’t be everywhere at once. That is why digital presence matters so much. A strong visual identity, clear storytelling and quality content help artists stand out in a sea of noise. Every post, every thumbnail, every snippet of sound counts.
Here is what always catches my attention: great music, professionalism and genuine passion. Your songs need to speak for themselves, but how you present them — from your artwork to your captions — is part of your brand. Overnight success is rare; building something lasting takes dedication and consistency.
My advice? Be proactive. Grow your audience organically, engage with fans, reach out to blogs and build your own narrative. Treat your art like a business — but don’t lose your authenticity along the way.
At Claudia eRecords, I focus on genres like Rock, Pop, EDM, Indie Pop, Soul, R&B, Hip-Hop and occasionally Rap. What matters most is quality — production, structure, melody and originality. If your track feels honest and well-crafted, I will listen.
Even if you are not an overnight sensation, keep going. Passion and persistence still matter more than ever. Music is a marathon — not a sprint.
You can share your work with me through our Music Submission page or connect with us on Social Media. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights on what makes new music stand out.
Looking Ahead — Scouting in 2026Today’s scouting goes beyond sound. It is about authentic storytelling, creative identity and connection.
AI can generate tracks — but heart, intention and originality can’t be faked.
The artists breaking through now are those who blend great music with genuine presence — building real communities around their sound.
When I tell people what I do, I usually get the same question: “So, how do you find new artists?”
The truth is, scouting today is both easier and more complex than ever. I am constantly exploring — checking playlists, discovering creators on TikTok and Instagram, scanning newsletters, listening to demos and digging through online communities where emerging talent shines. I am drawn to artists who sound original, have something to say and show that spark that makes you stop scrolling.
Of course, I can’t be everywhere at once. That is why digital presence matters so much. A strong visual identity, clear storytelling and quality content help artists stand out in a sea of noise. Every post, every thumbnail, every snippet of sound counts.
Here is what always catches my attention: great music, professionalism and genuine passion. Your songs need to speak for themselves, but how you present them — from your artwork to your captions — is part of your brand. Overnight success is rare; building something lasting takes dedication and consistency.
My advice? Be proactive. Grow your audience organically, engage with fans, reach out to blogs and build your own narrative. Treat your art like a business — but don’t lose your authenticity along the way.
At Claudia eRecords, I focus on genres like Rock, Pop, EDM, Indie Pop, Soul, R&B, Hip-Hop and occasionally Rap. What matters most is quality — production, structure, melody and originality. If your track feels honest and well-crafted, I will listen.
Even if you are not an overnight sensation, keep going. Passion and persistence still matter more than ever. Music is a marathon — not a sprint.
You can share your work with me through our Music Submission page or connect with us on Social Media. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights on what makes new music stand out.
Looking Ahead — Scouting in 2026Today’s scouting goes beyond sound. It is about authentic storytelling, creative identity and connection.
AI can generate tracks — but heart, intention and originality can’t be faked.
The artists breaking through now are those who blend great music with genuine presence — building real communities around their sound.
JJ - Artist Scout at Claudia eRecords / Germany
