What is a demo in music?

A demo in music refers to a rough or preliminary recording meant to showcase the song or composition. It is usually recorded in a home studio or a basic recording setup and is a low-cost alternative to a professional recording. Demos are often used by musicians and singers to showcase their songs to record labels, producers, or collaborators to gauge their interest and to encourage them to invest in a full-scale recording.

Some common features of a music demo include minimal instrumentation like guitar or piano with vocals or programming sound effects and loops, and a simple arrangement. The demo may lack the full fidelity, polish, and production values of a final recording but should still showcase the musicians' talent, creativity, and potential.

In modern times, demos have become easier to create, distribute, and promote with the advent of digital audio recording software, online music platforms, and social media marketing. Many successful musicians and bands have started their careers with the help of a demo, which landed them a recording deal, a fan following, or an invitation to perform live.