In this article, let’s explore how to get your music noticed by developing a solid music marketing plan and clear strategic moves. As an independent artist, it can be challenging to get noticed in the music industry. With the volume of music available on streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud and the like, there’s a lot of competition out there. However, with the right marketing strategies, it’s possible to reach a wider audience and get your music heard by new listeners.
Are you looking to get noticed by playlist curators, media outlets and other industry pros? Make new connections?
Here’s how to stand out with your music project:
1. Create Your Own Unique Project
How to get your music noticed: make it stand out from the rest. Seems obvious, but we forget that the first step in a successful music career is grabbing attention. In fact, it’s crucial to do so before you move on to anything else.
Focus on songwriting, production, storytelling and branding, and make sure your music is unique and memorable. Emphasize your strengths as an artist and create your niche in one of the many genres of music out there. Don’t try to make the music that’s already out there – it exists already.
Work on your image! Succeeding in the music business is just as much about promo strategy and marketing as it is about the music these days. In the world of digital music distribution, you’re competing for new fans to discover you in a jam-packed space full of indie songwriters and signed artists alike. To get people to listen to your music, you first have to get them to click.
That’s why you’ve got to make sure your profile pics, album covers, and any other images associated with your online presence are on point. In competitive social media feeds, the visual aspect of promotion is more critical than ever. High-quality images that say something about who you are play a pivotal role in capturing the attention of potential fans, talent scouts, record companies, indie labels, and influencers. By incorporating eye-catching imagery into blog posts, album release promotions, and new single announcements, independent artists can enhance their discoverability.
2. Take Advantage of YouTube
You’d be surprised by how much traction you can still get from YouTube. YouTube is a great place to find new fans and get the attention of higher ups in the industry who are searching for new talent. Social networks like YouTube are one of the best ways out there for unsigned artists to find publicity. Record labels have a history of offering deals to new artists after hearing them sing on YouTube (Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Tori Kelly).
Music videos are also a classic music marketing strategy that help you get your music on the feed of potential listeners. Music blogs often share and write about videos, and when they go viral, it’s a one-way ticket to being played on radio stations and boosting your streaming numbers.
It’s highly recommended that you have a YouTube channel where you upload your new music videos. Having varied forms of content is what separates the new artists you’ll see on tour next year from the rest. It’s an exercise in self-promotion as well as an additional creative outlet. Some of the most viral music videos of the past have garnered attention solely through their uniqueness, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box with your concepts. Make use of hashtags, adwords, and other tactics to make sure your videos take off.
3. Get Highlighted on Streaming Platforms
Get into Curated Playlists
One of the best ways to promote your music is by getting your songs in playlists on music streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, YouTube Music, Napster, etc. When setting up your music on streaming platforms, don’t forget to pitch your song to Spotify’s editorial team through Spotify for Artists. Here are some examples to get you started.
Create Your Own Playlists
Another effective way to promote your music is by creating your own playlists where you can include your own music and curate a playlist that will help you gain new followers.
4. Connect with Fans
It’s essential to build a strong online presence. This means having active and engaging social media accounts. By connecting with fans on social media, sharing regular music updates and interacting with your audience, you can build a loyal fanbase that will help promote your music for you.
Instagram and TikTok are absolutely crucial these days. Many of the most meteoric stars of today went from completely unknown to being played on the radio just from having a short clip go viral on TikTok or Instagram. In fact, you can probably point to the last time you yourself looked up an artist’s page after listening to their song on a curated feed like these platforms use.
Advertising can also help you get new fans. If you’re acting as an independent record label promoting your own music, trying out Facebook/Instagram ads might be worth a try. Buying ad space allows you to keep your followers informed about upcoming gigs and new releases, and makes you discoverable to new listeners.
5. Contact Music Media
As part of your music PR, consider submitting your songs to reviewers or reaching out to music bloggers, websites, radio stations and more to have them showcase your music and gain exposure to a targeted audience. Many of these can be found on Groover.
6. Perform Live
Lastly, playing gigs and touring are great ways to get your music out there. Performances allow you to connect with your audience and create new opportunities for networking. Many people discover artists by attending shows, so make efforts to headline or open for a gig in your area!
7. Find a Team
Record labels can do a lot of the heavy lifting for you when it comes to music marketing. Even if you don’t have a record deal, you can still assemble a team to work like your own independent label. Behind every successful artist is a manager, publisher, and marketer, even when these are all the same person 😉
Groover can be a great tool for reaching out to record labels, publishers, managers & more for collaboration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting your music noticed in the music industry can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible. Part of artist development is using online promotion services, building a strong online presence, and creating a unique brand. Focus on building your niche, curating your playlists, getting your music out there by gigging, and don’t underestimate the power of networking! You’ll be well on your way to success in your music career.
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