If you’re not raking in the royalties yet, and if you’re reading this, we assume you aren’t, we’ve put together a post, about what we think are the eight most effective ways to enhance your music marketing for free.
Marketing on Social Media – DUH
You know this, but you’re probably not doing it right. The only thing you need to remember is that no one gets on social media to be promoted to. If that’s all you do, your posts have just become background noise. Instead, think of social media just like television: It should be entertaining or educational 80% of the time and commercials (promotion) 20% of the time. That’s the secret. Now, all you have to do is figure out how to entertain your audience 80% of the time.
Here are some examples you should already know:
Share funny or interesting images or videos that are relevant.
Post insights or other valuable information. Ask your friends what they think you know a lot about and then post about it. But, it does not have to be music related, and it preferably should not be. Posting about other topics adds more layers to you and makes you more interesting and memorable. If you don’t know a lot about anything, figure out something you want to know a lot about and then take your audience on the journey with you.
Then, encourage user-generated content.
Marketing through a Mailing List – DOUBLE DUH
If you do not have a mailing list – what is you doing? Do you want to build a database of fans that will buy your wares and attend your shows, or are you just fucking around?
Email is considered one of the most effective channels for marketing, with 79 percent of marketers placing it in their top 3.
In order to maximize your list’s potential it needs to include the person’s name, email address AND city, state, and zip code. So, that way you can segment the list and send emails about Georgia only to people who live in Georgia.
Offer exclusive content, early releases, and behind-the-scenes glimpses to entice them into joining. An email can have more impact than a thousand social media posts. Plus it’s a great way to try to sell that box of t-shirts sitting in your closet.
Harmonize with Influencers
These can be people you admire or just use your musician friends and cross-promote. It gets your content seen by new eyeballs – and lets people know that you’re likable and have friends.
Engage in Online Communities
Listen to me. No matter what you think about Twitter, music writers, and other industry folks are on it. So, look up music writers, label owners, radio DJs, agents, talent buyers, etc, and follow them, then engage with them. But, and this is a big but, don’t look stupid.
Also, become a part of online communities and forums where music lovers hang out. Additionally, Share your knowledge, answer questions, and establish yourself as an authority in the music scene. Marketing is all about building connections. You know those people who know everyone? This is how they did it.
Get Featured on Music Blogs
Easier said, than done, but it is free. Pitch your music to relevant music blogs and publications. Craft compelling pitches that grab their attention. Make sure to personalize your outreach, show genuine interest in their platform, and sprinkle some clever wordplay to stand out. My best advice is to not even tell them you’re a musician the first time you connect. Instead, just make it about them. Compliment or offer them something. Then, put them in your back pocket. And wait.
Stage an Intimate Livestream Concert
Take your music directly to your fans’ screens by organizing intimate livestream concerts. Get up close and personal, crack a few jokes, and make them feel like they’re sitting in the front row. It’s a virtual stage that offers a real connection.
Create Compelling Visual Content
If you have the skills and good taste. Otherwise, this one isn’t for you.
To be successful in Music Marketing, You Need to Collaborate
Finally, join forces with other talented artists who complement your style. Collaborative tracks or even joint EPs can widen your reach and introduce you to new fans. This is not a new idea, but if it works, why reinvent the wheel?