General (2024) - Indie Marketing School

You NEED to be releasing singles instead of albums

or Why Releasing Singles is the Future of Music: The Advantages of Ditching Full Albums

The music industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, and one of the most notable shifts has been the way artists release their music. Gone are the days of strict album release schedules and the traditional album rollout. Now, more and more artists are opting to release singles instead of full albums.

There are many reasons why releasing singles is the way to go for today’s artists. Firstly, it allows for a more flexible and spontaneous approach to releasing music. With a single release, artists can get their music out to their fans quickly and easily, without having to wait for a full album to be completed. This can be particularly useful for artists who are experimenting with new sounds and styles and want to get feedback from their fans as soon as possible.

Releasing Singles - Taylor Swift battles Justin Bieber

An additional benefit of releasing singles is that it allows artists to constantly engage with their fans and build their following. With a single release, artists can create a sense of anticipation and excitement among their fans, who are eagerly awaiting the next installment. This helps to keep fans engaged and interested in the artist’s music and can lead to a deeper connection between the artist and their fans.

Releasing singles offers greater creative freedom for artists. Instead of having to fit their music into the constraints of a full album, artists can release songs as and when they are ready, allowing them to truly express themselves in the most creative and authentic way possible.

The rise of streaming services has made it easier than ever for artists to release their music. With platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, artists can reach a massive global audience with just a few clicks. This makes it easier for artists to get their music out to their fans and reach new listeners, even if they only release singles.

Of course, there are some who argue that full albums offer a more complete artistic vision and allow artists to showcase their full range of talents. However, the reality is that today’s music consumers are more focused on individual tracks and have less patience for full albums. By releasing singles, artists can ensure that their music is being consumed and appreciated in the way that they intended.

It’s also important to mention that the cost of producing a full album can be prohibitively expensive for many artists. With the costs of studio time, mixing, mastering, and promotion, it can be difficult for artists to justify the expense of producing a full album when they can reach their fans just as effectively with a series of well-crafted singles.

Releasing singles is the way to go for today’s artists. It offers greater flexibility, creative freedom, and opportunities for engagement with fans. With the rise of streaming services, it’s easier than ever for artists to reach their fans and build their following, even if they only release singles. So, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, it’s time to embrace the single release and take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer.

There’s no denying that full albums have been a staple of the music industry for many years, but in today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving music landscape, it’s important for artists to be flexible and adapt to changing trends. By releasing singles, artists can remain relevant and stay ahead of the curve, constantly delivering new and exciting music to their fans.

The music industry is no longer dominated by the major labels and corporations, giving independent artists the opportunity to make their mark. By releasing singles, independent artists can bypass the traditional album release cycle and get their music out to the world on their own terms. This not only helps to build their fan base, but it also allows them to maintain complete control over their music and brand.

A key advantage of releasing singles is that it allows artists to collaborate with other musicians and producers more easily. With a single release, artists can work with different producers and musicians on individual tracks, creating a diverse and eclectic body of work. This can be especially useful for artists who are looking to experiment with new sounds and styles and want to work with a variety of musicians to bring their vision to life.

Releasing singles lets artists to cater to their fans’ preferences. With a full album, artists may be forced to include tracks that they know may not be as well-received by their fans. However, by releasing singles, artists can cater to their fans’ tastes and only release tracks that they know will be popular. This can lead to a stronger connection between the artist and their fans, as well as a more successful career overall.

PLUS – releasing singles can also lead to increased revenue for artists. By releasing singles, artists can earn money from each individual track, rather than having to wait for an entire album to be completed. This not only helps to supplement their income, but it also allows artists to reinvest in their music and further develop their craft.

So, if you’re an artist, it’s time to consider the benefits of releasing singles. Whether you’re an independent artist or signed to a major label, there has never been a better time to embrace the single release and build a successful and rewarding career in the music industry.

Singles help artists stay current and relevant in a constantly changing industry. By releasing music more frequently, artists can remain top-of-mind with their fans and stay ahead of the curve, delivering fresh and exciting music on a regular basis.

And let’s not forget about the fans! By releasing singles, fans are able to enjoy new music from their favorite artists more often, without having to wait for an entire album to be completed. This keeps fans engaged and excited about the artist’s music, leading to increased loyalty and a stronger connection between the artist and their fans.

Basic fact is , releasing singles is the way to go for today’s music artists. Whether you’re an independent artist or signed to a major label, there are numerous benefits to releasing singles, including greater flexibility, creative freedom, increased engagement with fans, and the ability to reach a larger audience. So why not embrace the single release and take your music career to the next level?

STARTING A MUSIC CAREER FROM SCRATCH

Mia's Marketing, General, Music Business

MAKE a music career from scratch, zip, nada, nothing. is a daunting task.

I know I’m going to get feedback that this article isn’t about starting from Scratch, because – well sometimes the internet just sucks. “the artist you wrote about has played live gigs”, “that artist learned to play when she was 5 yrs old”, ‘OMG their parents bought him a toy drum set as a kid”… FML people just suck…

So while I plan to outline and then go into detail about each of the different step I take when starting with a new artist, understand – everyone started from somewhere and marketing a new born to play music would be creepy (though maybe effective, think Tiger Woods or those staged photos of JFK as a child).

This is the start of a series, the project is going to take an actual person who is going to remain nameless as I don’t want to run the risk of this article impacting the marketing being done. Sometimes this will mean recreating the assets to mask the identity but the spirit will remain.

This is not a step by step guide to build your music career, as every career has different advantages and disadvantages based on a number of different factors – some controllable other are un-controllable but all of them are factors to be dealt with.

Lets start with the basic’s first.

MUSIC CAREER GOALS

We’ll call our rock star “Mia”. She’s been playing guitar for 10 years and is 24 yrs of age. She is based in Toledo, Ohio and has played a “few gigs”. She has 4 songs recorded and released on Spotify that has a total of aprox. 3000 plays. Mia has never done any real marketing, and SAYS she plays both Rock and singer-song writer genres of music.

This is enough to be interested in taking her on as a client combined with hearing her music and noting it is of professional quality.

Mia wants to be able to live a good life off music, buy her parents a house and not worry about money again. Sounds like a good goal, unrealistic – but common.

here is a copy of my New Artist Interview form I would give Mia to fill out. Can you answer these questions for yourself?

Who are your fans?
1. Who is most active online?
2. What’s the crowd like at live shows?
Who is someone that doesn’t listen to your music who you think should?
How would you describe the project to someone at a party that’s never heard of you?
Who do you dream of opening for?
1. Who do you dream opening for you?
What’s your ideal press headline 12 months from now?
1. In which publication?
2. Why?
What are your goals at each of these stages:
1. release week
2. 3 months after project drops
3. 12 months after project drops
What do you think you need to do to hit those goals?
If you were to completely start over again, what would you do different?
Who are the 10 artists who you feel are closest to your sound (5 at your level and 5 above your level)?
Why do people NOT listen to your music?
Who makes up the existing team? (photographers, video directors, social media managers, paid media specialists, stylists, hair and makeup.)
What do you expect to change with marketing this time around?
What do you think I/we will solve for you?
What is the approval process for creative?
At what frequency do you release new music?

The response to these questions helps the team to understand the realistic goals and “pie in the sky” goals. We break down a basic marketing plan to figure-out what details fit Mia. Here is the top level marketing for a new artist – of course the details are what makes a difference and we’ll cover those in additional articles.

Identify target audience: Understanding the target audience is crucial in order to create content that resonates with them. Based on Mia’s response to the New Artist Interview form, her target audience would be individuals who are fans of rock and singer-songwriter genres of music.
Choose social media platforms: Based on the target audience, Mia should focus on platforms that cater to music enthusiasts, such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. She should also consider platforms such as TikTok and YouTube for promoting music videos and live performances.
Establish a consistent brand image: Mia should ensure that her social media profiles reflect her brand image and showcase her personality, music style, and genre. This can be achieved by using consistent colors, logos, and fonts across all profiles.
Create engaging content: Mia should post regular updates on her music, upcoming gigs, and behind-the-scenes content. She should also consider creating short videos showcasing her music and live performances, as well as interactive content such as polls and Q&A sessions with fans.
Utilize hashtags: Mia should use relevant hashtags such as #music #singer-songwriter #rock to increase the reach of her posts and attract new followers.
Collaborate with other artists: Mia should consider collaborating with other artists in her genre to cross-promote each other’s music and reach a larger audience.
Utilize paid promotion: Mia can consider using paid promotion to reach a wider audience, such as Facebook and Instagram advertising, or sponsored posts.
Engage with fans: Mia should actively engage with her fans by responding to comments and messages, and retweeting or reposting their content.
Track performance: Mia should regularly track the performance of her social media profiles by monitoring metrics such as reach, engagement, and conversions. This will help her determine which types of content are resonating with her audience and make data-driven decisions for future campaigns.
Stay updated: Mia should stay updated with the latest social media trends and best practices to ensure that her content remains fresh and relevant to her audience.

Once we have a clear understanding of Mia’s goals, target audience and existing assets, we can begin to build the details of her marketing strategy. The first step is to create a comprehensive marketing plan that includes a budget, target audience, messaging, and tactics. This plan will be the foundation for all of the marketing efforts moving forward.

Next, we need to build an online presence. This includes creating a website, social media accounts, and email list. The website should showcase Mia’s music, provide information about her, and have a way for fans to connect and stay updated. Social media should be used to engage with fans, share news, and promote her music. The email list is a powerful tool for direct communication with fans and for promoting upcoming shows and releases.

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Live performances are crucial for a musician’s career. Mia should make a schedule of local shows and actively seek out opportunities to play at festivals, venues, and other events. Networking is also important, meeting other musicians, industry professionals, and fans can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.

Another important aspect of marketing is press coverage. Mia should reach out to music journalists and bloggers, send them her music, and let them know about upcoming shows and releases. She should also create a press kit that includes a biography, photos, and videos to help journalists write about her.

Finally, paid advertising can be a valuable tool for reaching new fans. Mia should consider running social media ads, Google Ads, and other forms of paid advertising to reach a wider audience and promote her music.

Exploring the Most Popular Music Genres: EDM, Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Reggae, Folk, Metal, and Blues

Genre, General

Music is an art form that has captivated audiences for centuries and has been a constant source of creative expression and cultural evolution. In recent years, certain music genres have gained significant media attention, and in this article, we will explore these popular music genres and their impact on society and culture.

Pop Music: Pop music is one of the most popular and well-known music genres in the world. It is characterized by its upbeat, catchy tunes and simple lyrics that are easy to sing along to. Pop music often incorporates elements of other genres, such as rock, hip-hop, and electronic dance music, to create a unique sound that appeals to a wide range of listeners. Some of the most famous pop artists of all time include Madonna, Michael Jackson, Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber.

2. Hip-Hop: Hip-hop is a music genre that originated in the African American community in the South Bronx in the 1970s. It is characterized by its use of rap lyrics and beats, and its focus on themes such as social justice, political activism, and self-expression. Hip-hop has grown into one of the most influential and widely-listened-to music genres in the world, with artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Cardi B gaining worldwide recognition.

3. Electronic Dance Music (EDM): EDM is a genre of music that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s and has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is characterized by its fast-paced, synthesized beats and its use of electronic instruments. EDM has become a staple of dance clubs and festivals around the world, and some of the biggest names in EDM include David Guetta, Calvin Harris, and Martin Garrix.

4. Rock: Rock music is a genre that has been popular for several decades and continues to be a staple of popular culture. It is characterized by its use of amplified instruments, such as guitar, bass, and drums, and its focus on rebellion and individualism. Some of the most famous rock artists of all time include The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones.

5. Country: Country music is a genre that originated in the southern United States in the 1920s and 1930s. It is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, such as guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar, and its focus on themes such as love, heartbreak, and life in the countryside. Some of the biggest names in country music include Garth Brooks, and Miranda Lambert.

6. R&B: R&B, or Rhythm and Blues, is a genre of music that originated in the African American community in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by its use of soulful vocals, bluesy guitar riffs, and funk-inspired rhythms. Some of the most famous R&B artists of all time include Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Whitney Houston.

7. Jazz: Jazz is a genre of music that originated in African American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is characterized by its improvisational nature and its fusion of African and European musical traditions. Some of the most famous jazz artists of all time include Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Charlie Parker.

8. Classical: Classical music is a genre that has its roots in Western European classical music of the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras. It is characterized by its use of orchestral instruments and its focus on formal structure and harmony. Some of the most famous classical composers of all time include Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Johann Sebastian Bach.

9. Reggae: Reggae is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. It is characterized by its use of a slow, syncopated beat and its focus on themes of peace, love, and social justice. Reggae music has been heavily influenced by Rastafarianism, a religious movement that originated in Jamaica, and many reggae artists use their music as a platform for political and social activism. Some of the most famous reggae artists of all time include Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Toots and the Maytals.

10. Folk: Folk music is a genre that has roots in traditional music from various cultures and communities. It is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments and its focus on storytelling and social commentary. Folk music has been an important form of cultural expression for generations, and some of the most famous folk artists of all time include Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, and Bob Dylan.

11. Metal: Metal is a genre of music that originated in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is characterized by its use of heavy guitars, aggressive vocals, and complex rhythms. Metal music has often been associated with rebellion and counterculture, and it has inspired a loyal and passionate fanbase. Some of the most famous metal artists of all time include Black Sabbath, Lita Ford, Metallica, and Iron Maiden.

12. Blues: Blues is a genre of music that originated in African American communities in the southern United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is characterized by its use of the blues scale, its focus on storytelling and personal expression, and its influence on other genres such as rock, R&B, and jazz. Some of the most famous blues artists of all time include B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Howlin’ Wolf.

Musicians must understand these popular music genres have each made a significant impact on society and culture, and they continue to captivate audiences and influence the development of new forms of musical expression. Whether it’s the energetic beats of EDM, the soulful vocals of R&B, or the heavy guitars of metal, there is a music genre out there for everyone, and the impact of these genres on the world of music is undeniable.

Unleash Your Potential: The Importance of Engaging Stage Presence for New Musicians and Bands

Performances, General

The Importance of Engaging Stage Presence for New Musicians and Bands

An engaging stage presence can make or break a new musician or band. It’s the difference between a forgettable performance and one that leaves a lasting impact on the audience. In this article, we’ll explore why stage presence is crucial for new musicians and how it can help them connect with their audience, build their brand, and establish themselves in the music industry.

First and foremost, stage presence is about connecting with the audience. A performer’s energy and enthusiasm can transfer to the crowd, creating an atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special. When a performer connects with their audience, they’re more likely to keep their attention and leave a lasting impression.

Stage presence is also about conveying the performer’s personality and brand. A musician or band’s stage presence should reflect their music, image, and overall persona. By presenting themselves authentically on stage, they can reinforce their brand and build a strong identity in the minds of their fans.

Another important aspect of stage presence is confidence. A performer who exudes confidence on stage is more likely to connect with their audience and command their attention. Confidence comes from being prepared and having a clear understanding of one’s strengths and weaknesses as a performer.

However, it’s important to strike a balance between confidence and humility. Being too confident can come across as arrogant, while being too humble can make a performer seem unsure of themselves. The key is to find a balance that allows the performer to connect with their audience while still showcasing their talent and personality.

A performer’s body language and movement are also important elements of their stage presence. How they move and interact with the crowd can either enhance or detract from their performance. For example, engaging in energetic and dynamic movements can help keep the audience’s attention, while standing still or appearing stiff can make the performance seem flat and uninteresting.

Another crucial element of stage presence is eye contact. Making eye contact with the audience creates a connection and makes them feel like the performer is speaking directly to them. This can be particularly effective during intimate or emotional moments in a performance.

The use of props and stage design can also play a role in creating an engaging stage presence. For example, incorporating lighting, special effects, and creative stage design can enhance the overall impact of the performance and keep the audience’s attention.

It’s important for a performer to be able to read and respond to the audience’s energy. Knowing when to ramp up the energy or bring it down can make a performance more dynamic and engaging. A performer who can effectively connect with their audience and respond to their energy is more likely to leave a lasting impression.

An engaging stage presence is crucial for new musicians and bands. By connecting with their audience, building their brand, and showcasing their talent and personality, they can establish themselves in the music industry and leave a lasting impact on their fans. Whether it’s through confident body language, eye contact, stage design, or audience interaction, a captivating stage presence can help set a new performer apart from the rest.

Musician Stage Presence FAQ

What is a musician’s stage presence? A musician’s stage presence refers to their ability to engage and connect with an audience through their performance, personality, and overall image.
Why is stage presence important for musicians? Stage presence is important for musicians because it can help them connect with their audience, create a memorable performance, and build their brand and reputation.
How can a musician improve their stage presence? A musician can improve their stage presence by practicing their performance skills, developing their stage persona, engaging with the audience, and being confident and comfortable on stage.
What are some tips for developing a strong stage persona? Tips for developing a strong stage persona include finding your unique style and image, being authentic, and incorporating elements that reflect your personality and musical genre.
How can a musician engage with their audience during a performance? A musician can engage with their audience during a performance by making eye contact, speaking directly to the audience, and encouraging interaction through call and response or crowd participation.
What are some tips for building confidence on stage? Tips for building confidence on stage include practicing regularly, focusing on the music, visualizing success, and surrounding yourself with positive energy.
How can a musician create a memorable performance? A musician can create a memorable performance by delivering a strong and engaging performance, incorporating unique elements, and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
How can a musician use their body language to enhance their stage presence? A musician can use their body language to enhance their stage presence by incorporating gestures, movement, and facial expressions that complement the music and convey emotions.
How can a musician use lighting and stage design to enhance their stage presence? A musician can use lighting and stage design to enhance their stage presence by creating an atmosphere that supports the mood and energy of the performance, and highlighting key moments in the performance.
What are some common mistakes musicians make with their stage presence? Common mistakes musicians make with their stage presence include neglecting to engage with the audience, appearing nervous or uncomfortable, and failing to connect with the music and the performance.

Discover Your Music Genre: Understanding Your Musical Preferences Through Analysis

Genre, General

or “Music Genre: Why Everyone Thinks Their Sound is Unique”

As the music industry continues to evolve and expand, artists are constantly searching for ways to stand out and make a name for themselves. But with so many genres and sub-genres to choose from, it can be difficult to understand exactly what makes your music unique. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of music genres and explore why so many artists believe their sound is one-of-a-kind.

According to data from Spotify, the most popular music genres in the world include pop, hip-hop, and rock. However, as you delve deeper into each of these categories, you’ll find countless sub-genres that cater to specific audiences and styles. From trap to alternative rock, each sub-genre offers its own distinct sound and flavor.

So why do so many musicians believe their music is unique? The answer lies in the subjectivity of music. Just like art or literature, music is open to interpretation and personal taste. What may sound amazing to one person may not have the same impact on another. This is why so many artists are quick to defend their music as “unique” or “one-of-a-kind.”

But while subjectivity plays a big role in how we perceive music, there are also objective factors that contribute to a song’s uniqueness. For example, the production value, instrumentation, and song structure all play a role in how a song sounds and feels. An artist may choose to incorporate unconventional instruments or production techniques to create a sound that sets them apart from their contemporaries.

However, it’s important to note that there are limits to how unique your music can truly be. With so many genres and sub-genres to choose from, it’s likely that you’ll find similarities between your music and other artists. But that’s okay! In fact, it can be a good thing. By exploring the similarities between your music and other artists, you can gain a better understanding of your place within the industry and find inspiration for future projects.

So how do you determine your genre and find your place within the industry? One way is to analyze the artists you listen to and the music you enjoy. Take note of the common themes, production techniques, and instrumentation used in your favorite songs. These elements can provide valuable insight into your musical preferences and help you understand your genre.

Another way to determine your genre is to experiment with different styles and see what resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to try something new or push the boundaries of what’s considered “typical” for your genre. By exploring different sounds and techniques, you may discover a style that sets you apart and helps you find your unique place within the industry.

So, while it may be tempting to believe that your music is entirely unique and one-of-a-kind, the truth is that all music is influenced by the genres and sub-genres that came before it. But by understanding the objective and subjective factors that contribute to your sound, you can gain a better understanding of your place within the industry and find inspiration for future projects. So embrace your similarities and use them to help define your unique place within the world of music.

5 rules when Marketing Music 4th one is the best!!!

General, Music Business

Marketing Music, Band Marketing, Band promotion, band flyers, guerilla marketing — Image: Band members handing out flyers in NYC. Guerilla Marketing

What is Marketing Music?

Marketing Musicis the name of the game for today’s up-and-coming artists looking to make it in the industry. But with so many moving parts and a constantly changing landscape, it can be a daunting task for even the most seasoned musicians, let alone those just starting out. With that in mind here are a few music marketing tips to start you down the road to music marketing euphoria.

Fear not, aspiring rockstar. With the right strategies and a little elbow grease, you can turn your musical dreams into a thriving reality. First and foremost, establish a commanding online presence. A professional website, active social media accounts, and a steady stream of engaging content are key to connecting with fans and promoting your music. From Twitter to Instagram to Facebook, these platforms offer a direct line to your audience and allow you to share your sound with the world.

Your website is the centerpiece of your online efforts. Think of it as the hub for all things you. Make it visually striking, easy to navigate, and loaded with all the information your fans need to know about you. The following elements should be included:

A visually striking design that reflects your brand and style.
An easy-to-use navigation structure that allows fans to find what they’re looking for with ease.
A detailed biography that provides background information on your journey and the inspiration behind your music.
Your discography, including album art, track listings, and streaming links.
Up-to-date tour dates, so fans can catch you live.
A press section, where fans and media can access your latest news and press releases.
A store, where fans can purchase your merchandise and support your music.
A contact page, where fans and media can get in touch with you.
A newsletter sign-up form, allowing fans to stay up-to-date on your latest developments.

Your website should be optimized for search engines, so that fans can find you easily. This means incorporating keywords relevant to your genre and ensuring that the content is fresh, engaging, and well-written.

music website, music marketing, music promotions — Image: Music marketing website design sample

Music distribution is another crucial aspect of Marketing Music puzzle. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud provide you with the ability to reach a wider audience, track your music’s performance, and get valuable insights into your listeners. Embrace these channels and watch your music soar.

Live shows and events are the lifeblood of music marketing. Take the stage, whether it’s at a local venue or a major festival, and show the world what you’ve got. These opportunities offer a chance to connect with your fans in person, build your following, and generate excitement around your music.

Don’t overlook the power of merchandise in marketing music. Unique and high-quality items like t-shirts, posters, and stickers can serve as walking billboards for your brand. By selling them at live shows and online, you can create a lasting impression and generate additional income. Plus, who wouldn’t want to rock a t-shirt with your logo on it?

To wrap this up with a fancy bow, music marketing is a never-ending process that requires a combination of strategies and channels to be effective. For new musicians, it can seem overwhelming, but with determination and a solid plan, you can reach your target audience and achieve your goals. By establishing a strong online presence, utilizing music distribution platforms, participating in live events, and offering top-notch merchandise, you can carve out a successful music career and join the ranks of the biggest names in the game, without music marketing services.