There was a time when the only route to fame and fortune in the music industry involved getting signed by a major recording studio. However, we now live in the age of the Internet, and anyone with talent, the right equipment and the help of music distribution companies can start their own record label. But what does it take to get your music to the top of the charts? Employing 5 key strategies as part of a comprehensive marketing campaign could be the key to your success.
1. Research music promotion companies
If you want to make your music available for streaming and purchase in online music stores, the quickest and most effective way to make that happen is to enlist the services of a music distribution company. They will upload your material to all the major stores and streaming services in exchange for a relatively small fee – giving you a possible source of income. More importantly, however, is the fact that your music will be out there, and available to potential fans from around the world.
Music promotion companies can also open doors of opportunity for you. They can deal with PR agencies, the press and key professionals within the industry. These services can also help to give your music prominence on music video websites such as VEVO. Making it big in the music industry is often about who you know, and the leading promotion companies have working relationships with the people who can further your career.
2. Embrace social media
Social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are free, and they give you the opportunity to share your music with the world. Post free tracks and excerpts of your material at every opportunity, and take the time to take part in discussions that are relevant to your genre. If people start showing an interest in your work, engage with them, and ask them for their feedback. With regular posting and a little luck, one of your tracks may go viral.
3. Build a local following
Even the world’s most successful recording artists started out playing live gigs in their local community. Whether you are playing at the local pub or the corner of the street, nothing engages new fans like a live performance. If you have quality material, connect with your audience and perform well, word of mouth will give your career a significant boost. People will start talking about you on social media, telling their friends about you and watching out for your upcoming performances. You can also use this opportunity to start selling albums and tracks directly to your fans.
4. Create your own website
Your career in music is a journey, and people will be fascinated by it. Starting a website not only gives you a platform from which you can launch your latest material, it can also be used to portray you as an artist. Keep a record of all your tours, album sales and experiences, and your fans will begin to form an emotional attachment to you. Your site shouldn’t just be about selling merchandise and advertising tour dates, it should be your biography.
5. Check out what your competitors are up to
A great way to give your music career a kick-start is to emulate proven strategies employed by other artists in your genre. Talk to local musicians at gigs, discussion forums or on social media platforms. Ask them where and how they share new tracks. Find out which music venues and discussion forums are best for promoting your genre of music, and use them to showcase your own material.
The road to success in the music industry is long and littered with potential for disappointment. But with a plan of action in place, and the assistance of a music distribution company, you can increase your chances of making it big as an independent recording artist.
