There was a time when to get noticed in the music industry, you just had to write a great song. In the modern age, a place of unparalleled competition, global audiences, and where PR and promotion are at least as important as the talent of the musician, a whole different set of skills are also required to be learned.
Catching the attention of the potential fan isn’t enough, you have to keep them on board, and given that even the most well-traveled artists can only play live to a fraction of their audience, regular, online content, engagement with your fans and followers and other promotional tools are essential.
An online platform is essential as will act as a portal between you and your followers. There are plenty of music-specific streaming sites but these should be used in conjunction with a dedicated website to ensure that you create a feeling of intimacy and connection. If this all seems beyond you then there are plenty of companies to help you out and like everything else in the modern, digital world, they can be located anywhere on the planet. A PR company in downtown Frankfurt is just as valid as an SEO agency in Toronto. Geographical concerns are a thing of the past.
The modern musician also has to think like a business, you are the brand. The old notions of the rock and roll lifestyle might seem cool but it is the more focused artist who is going to catch the attention of the music buyer. Ironically, this means a dedicated approach to what you do, just as any business, entrepreneur, or start-up company would. Ditch the late nights, the after-show parties, the lack of sleep, the booze, and the junk food diets and embrace a healthier lifestyle, one that leaves you full of energy and creativity. And if you need help figuring out how to move to such a lifestyle then you can learn more.
Networking is the name of the game. You might have a record out. It might be a great record. The best there has ever been. But none of that counts for much if you don’t get the word out. PR companies can be employed to do this for you if you have the budget available, but there is still plenty that you can do for free.
Contact local newspapers and music magazines. Message blogs and websites, although they may get hundreds of e-mails a day so play the numbers and message as many as you can. You may also find that lifestyle blogs and creative websites are happy to help out, after all just as their review will send traffic your way, your tags and mentions on social media help push what they are doing too. A great example of such a site can be found here and learn more.
Content is key. Make sure that you are posting fresh updates and information every day, from gig announcements to review links, new songs to everyday thoughts. Keep them coming back for more should be your new mantra.
