Life as an independent musician may be tough, and it’s even tougher to make a living as a musician. That said, there are plenty of opportunities to promote your music, and ways to connect with new fans. For the dedicated artist, there are ways to get your music out there.
In this guide, we’re exploring some of the best ways to promote independent music, and make it without the help of a major label.
Music Videos
A Ypulse survey found that over 50% of people between 13 and 37 claimed that YouTube was a source of finding new music.
Anyone can put their music on YouTube with a still of their album artwork, but it is less likely to gain any traction. Work with any creative friends and videographers you know to try and put together a video. It might even have the OK GO viral effect.
Cater to Audiophiles
There are some strong communities of audiophiles out there, some of whom are looking for new music all the time. For instance, the immersive audio community is growing as more people get their hands on Dolby Atmos or other 3D audio systems.
If you’re able to provide high-end, lossless mixes, and multi-channel mixes for Dolby Atmos enabled devices, this can be a great way to narrow down your competition. It also allows you to sell on platforms like Immersive Audio Album.
Interested in selling your multichannel music on IAA? Set up your store here: link
Build a Web Presence
You wanted to become a musician because you love music, right? Not because you want to be a marketing maestro.
Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to have a considerable web presence. You don’t have to manage your social media 24/7, instead, make sure you have plenty of channels online for potential fans to find, and for reviewers to link to when they listen to your music and want to show others.
The number of musicians who don’t bother to put their music on all the different channels is surprising. Some people find music on Spotify, some find it on YouTube, some find it on Twitter. Being in as many places as possible allows you to maximize your chances of being spotted.
Make sure your web presence includes options for people to follow and subscribe, so they don’t forget you ever existed.
Play Live...A Lot
The time has come to start touring again. So many musicians who became popular and even famous did so by playing live as much as possible. Whether it is a local open mic night or a nationwide tour, every new venue you visit and new audience you play to is an opportunity to hook people into your network.
Get Playlisted and Added to Radio Station Rotations
This is easier said than done, but it is possible. Both internet and local radio stations tend to have ways for people to submit their music for consideration. Look for presenters running new music shows for the best chance of success, and try to personalize your approaches.
Playlists are also a huge opportunity. Many people use Spotify and Apple Music playlists to discover new sources of music, and approaching the individuals who compiled the playlists might give you the opportunity to get your tunes included. This can boost your streams and even help you to gain some lifelong fans.
Of course, there are many different ways to promote your music, and there is no right or wrong answer really. Instead, it’s all about being persistent, and taking every opportunity to get your music out there in the hope that you’ll find that ‘tipping point’.
