There are several steps that every independent artist should consider before releasing their music.
First and foremost, they need to create quality music. Artist should spend time crafting their songs, making sure the production quality is up to their standards and that the mixdown is appropriate for their desired release format.
After their music is complete, independent artists should research their release options. There are several digital music streaming services that artists can leverage when distributing their music, such as Spotify and Apple Music. They can also utilize social media platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram to help spread their music to a wider audience. Additionally, independent artists may wish to consider radio play and press releases to help fans discover their music.
Artists should also decide which release formats, such as digital streaming services, physical CD's, or vinyl records best suits their needs. Additionally, there are services that allow independent artists to manage their musical career and get their music more exposure, such as CD Baby, DistroKid, and TuneCore. Lastly, another great way for independent artists to promote their music is to book live performances in venues and festivals.
While performing live can increase exposure, independent artists should also consider more affordable strategies, such as utilizing social media, creating music videos and launching campaigns. Additionally, independent artists should reach out to radio shows, music blogs, and online magazines to seek more exposure for their music. Furthermore, independent artists can collaborate with other artists and songwriters to create even more diverse content.
Independent artists can also reach to local radio stations and podcast shows, collaborate with record labels and distributors, or explore licensing/synchronization opportunities for their music. Additionally, independent artists should explore strategies for maximizing marketing such as creating a website, hosting online events, and using online tools such as streaming services, mailing lists, and client networks.
There are many other strategies for independent artists to maximize their reach and potential. They can create content for music review blogs, engage with their fans through social media, get involved in communities with complementary music scenes, and perform at local live shows. Independent artists can also create merchandise or use crowdfunding campaigns to build their music career.
Independent artists can use paid services to promote their music, such as online radio airplay and online music publishers. Paid services can be very costly, but they can also help to spread an artist's music farther and faster than ever before. They can also consider getting involved in the streaming industry, by setting up their music with services like Spotify or Apple Music. Creating an online presence is another vital tool to spread the word about one’s music.
Another way independent artists can promote their music and grow their fanbase is by creating content that is engaging and interactive. This can include making music videos, photoshoots, interviews, or other forms of content. Artists can also launch social media campaigns, which allows them to target specific audiences and creatively engage with them through posts and videos, as well as creating press coverage or organizing live events.
Apart from the above-mentioned methods, independent artists can also look for ways to cross-promote their projects with other indie artists. Working together with other small-scale creators can increase both of their visibility within the same industry. By collaborating with each other and promoting each other’s work, indie artists can work to build an engaged fanbase both online and off.
There is no magic formula. Consistency, talent, and pure persistence will bring success. Keep pushing for the top.