It’s not necessarily easy to make a place for yourself in the music industry when you’re an independent artist. The road may be long, but with the right strategies, you can really give your musical project a boost!
Here are some quick tips that can make a big difference in promoting and developing your music career 👇
1. Don’t try to fit into a box
An essential tip, especially today in the age of social networks and streaming platforms, when it’s becoming easier than ever to copy or imitate what you see and hear: don’t try to fit into a box!
Unique, truly original projects are becoming increasingly rare. Besides, diversity is the key if we want to continue to be creative and nurture a healthy music industry!
Don’t be afraid to explore your own influences and create a unique musical identity that sets you apart from others—because you are unique.
At first, it may be a little rough, but by trying things and searching, you will always eventually hit the target. And at that moment, you’ll thank yourself and others will thank you too, because you’ll have become a source of inspiration.
Working hard, being good at what you do, and being your own person… sounds like a recipe for success, doesn’t it?
2. Set realistic goals
Having clear and achievable objectives can help you stay focused and motivated. Whether it’s the number of posts per week you want to post on social networks, the number of concerts you want to do in the month/year, the number of playlists you want to contact for the release of your next song, the number of media outlets you want to contact, etc.
Focus on what you can control before focusing on your results. This will allow you to measure your progress and adjust your strategy based on what works and what doesn’t.
can start from this 3-pillar base to build a good social media strategy:
- content about you,
- content about your collaborators/features/label/entourage,
- and fun/less-promo content.
This diversification of content will give your followers an overview of who you are as an artist and your environment. Of course, you’re free to show what you want, the main point is just that your followers have some kind of connection with you. And that happens by way of the emotions that your content makes them feel.
You can also co-post on social networks with other artists, media outlets, venues, etc. This will allow you to expand your audience and maybe reach new people who might be interested in your music.
4. Avoid releasing songs at certain times
As an independent artist, there is no real rule. You won’t be threatened by the release of Taylor Swift’s album on the same day as you, no worries about that.
However, avoid releasing your tracks during saturated periods, such as holidays or major media events, where your music may be drowned out by other releases. People can be more or less in the mood to make new musical discoveries.
Also think about your style of music: maybe it doesn’t fit all times of the year or all seasons? Think of your listeners: who are they, what age and what gender? Try to determine the most favorable times for them. The statistics of streaming platforms and social networks will help you a lot on this point.
And finally, rest assured: the first day of release is very important, but the days after also count. All you have to do is do your best for D-Day, and then do everything you can to continue to make your music known as widely as possible.
5. Release your EPs or albums using the waterfall strategy
Rather than publishing all your songs at once, consider using the waterfall strategy. Publish a single first, followed by several others, then group them into an EP or album. This can keep your fans interested over a longer period of time, and bring it back to your previous singles with each new release. Need some more details on the waterfall strategy?👈
6. Participate in contests regularly
Musical contests offer a great opportunity to get noticed by industry professionals and gain visibility with a new audience. Look for local or online contests and events where you can showcase your talent.
| Consult the guide to the musical springboards of the moment
7. Set up a pre-download for each of your releases
Use pre-download features on streaming platforms to allow your fans to save your music before its official release. This can generate anticipation and boost the first release figures. It’s a good way to grab the attention of streaming platform algorithms!
8. Send your music to independent playlists
Playlists can be a great way to reach new listeners. You’ll probably want to aim for the biggest playlists, but be careful, it’s not necessarily the best strategy! Why? Because your chances of getting an answer are close to zero. However, many independent playlists want to support emerging musicians.
Little by little, the work your way up. One small playlist, then another, and yet another… until you have a snowball effect.
The advantage of independent playlists is that they usually have very targeted audiences. So if they choose to add your song, there is a good chance that their listeners will appreciate it.
Keep in mind that if people skip your song, it sends very bad signals to the algorithms. So try to get on playlists that really match your style.
And now all you have to do is identify the independent playlists that suit you and send them your music!
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Send your music to playlists of your choice 👇
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If your music is featured in media or blogs, be sure to share all of these articles on your social networks. This boosts your credibility as an artist and can grab the attention of new fans and music industry pros. Plus, it’s a way to thank these media outlets that put you in the spotlight.
TikTok has become a must-have platform for music promotion. Subscribe to their newsletter to stay up to date on trends, challenges, and collaboration opportunities that could help propel your music on the platform.plateforme.
Conclusion
By following these simple, yet effective tips, you can get a significant boost to your musical project and open new doors in your artistic journey.
Stay creative, stay engaged, and keep sharing your passion with the world!
– Translated by Kole Wright –
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Spread your music worldwide ⬇️
