The music industry is getting tougher for independent musicians. Having unique talent is not enough to place you at the top and create a loyal fan base.
Without the backing of a record label, you will need to work harder. You need to use smart and effective methods to rise above the competition and build a sizeable following.
Showcasing your brand and marketing your music does not have to cost a fortune. There are numerous online tools available in the market that you can use to attract the right audience and get your brand name out there.
And the best part is that you get to be creative with your campaigns and tailor the digital marketing strategies to suit your brand. You can improve your strategies as your brand grows, and hire a digital media marketer with time.
Here are five effective methods you can promote your music using digital media and grow your brand.
1) Identify Your Dream Listeners and Shape Your Audience Around Them
Your efforts to create an impressive album will be futile if you cannot reach your target audience. If your music is targeting everyone, then you might never build a loyal fan base. You need to identify your target audience. But first, understand your music and your sound.
Know the age that responds best to your genre and carry out adequate research. Understand their likes and dislikes. What style of videos does your target audience prefer? Which marketing methods work best with this group?
Find out the methods your competitors are using and borrow some tactics. When you release your music, solicit feedback, and make changes to meet your fans’ needs.
2) Build Your Audience Through Social Media Platforms
Social media is quickly becoming an important aspect of any digital marketing strategy. Creating an account is free for almost all platforms, making it cost-effective.
It provides an open avenue to engage with your audience and create two-way communication. You can also use it to for advertising the launching of a new album. Use popular platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram, Youtube, and Soundcloud. Use a compelling and professionally done profile picture that reflects your genre.
Explore the impact of using SFX and sound effects to create great anticipation. Be real with your followers. Authenticity builds trust. Engage with your followers consistently and create valuable content. You can always opt to work with a social media manager as your following expands.
3) Show Up on Your Audience’s Favorite Podcasts
Podcasts are an excellent way to get your brand known. Due to their audio nature, your message will get to your listeners more effectively. And the best part is that you can share more content in a single podcast episode than you would in a social media post. More content means that your audience will get to really know you.
Be sure to identify the podcasts that your audience listens to most and make a guest contribution. Use the podcast to tell your listeners a compelling story about the creation of the song or album. Share the inspiration behind it. Give them a reason to want to listen to your music.
You can also use the podcast to inspire upcoming musicians and while at it, find creative ways to introduce your upcoming album.
4) Show Up on Your Audience’s Favorite Blogs
Blogs provide a platform to create extra content that you can use to showcase your brand. Rather than directly asking your target audience to listen to your music, write articles that give you a reason to talk about your new album.
Write catchy stories about your album or the meaning behind the lyrics. Writing content in your audience’s favorite blog gives you exposure and an opportunity to win over new fans. When you get featured in the blog, share it on your social media platforms, and add it to your website.
You can also participate in blog interviews and give your audience a deeper understanding of who you are and the things you believe in.
5) Live Stream Your Work
There is so much power in a live performance. It’s a great opportunity to connect with your fans and build a loyal fan base.
However, you would be surprised at the number of people who would rather watch your performance from the comfort of their couch. A live stream of a powerful performance can motivate this segment to buy tickets for your future shows. So make it memorable and capture the audience’s enthusiasm.
A live stream also enables the fans who wanted to attend the show but couldn’t, to share in the experience.
You do not have to stream a concert, perform in front of a webcam, and use live streaming software to make your music available to your audience.
Conclusion
No one will know your music exists unless you apply effective marketing strategies. But first, you need to know your music and find the right audience.
Reach out using the right social media platforms and build a community. Live stream your shows, rehearsals, or simply share a free performance with your fans.
You need to get blogs and podcasts to interview you and review your music. Do not just talk about your music, contribute interesting articles, and let your fans know you better. Talk about the latest news in the music industry and establish yourself as an authority in the industry.
Find the digital marketing strategies that work for your brand and maximize on them.
Courtesy of David Freudenberg