What does unsolicited music demos mean?

Answer 1

This phrase means something you sent without being asked to send it. Historically, the way a band has gotten signed to a record label is that that label sends people (usually from the Artists & Repertoire department, also called A&R or talent scouts) out to watch the band perform. But first, the band provides a demo (a demonstration)-- a tape, or these days an audio-file or a CD of their best work. Much has changed in our internet era, and labels are getting more careful about which bands they will sign. They generally will only speak to a band's agent or music attorney, rather than accepting unsolicited demos (demo recordings the label never asked for). The same is true for talent shows on TV-- unless they asked for you to send a demo, they generally don't accept them, and will return them to you unopened (to avoid later charges they stole your work).

Some bands or individual musicians use the demo record in other ways-- not just to attract a label's attention. They might use their demo to show club managers that they have talent and the club ought to book them for live performances there. But even in that situation, club owners are hesitant to just accept a demo if they don't know anything about the band. It is always useful to have a good-looking publicity package, with information about your band (or yourself), so that the club will see you are professional and will be reliable if you are signed to a contract to perform there.