Getting to the Top

How does one promote themselves and get noticed in this vast market of musicians?

Well it seems long gone are the days when you hand out a physical demo or you send a thick envelope filled with press-kit materials for review. Also, not to mention all of the copyright issues at stake if one should be so inclined to have a listen.

Here are a few suggestions below but truly it is up to you and what you are looking to achieve for your career.

MARKETING PLAN

How many of you actually have a written plan of career milestones and goals you would like to achieve? How many of you actually refer back to it to ensure you are on the right path? The numbers are considerably low if you are not represented by a team of professionals but fact is represented or not, if you intend to generate any form of revenue from your craft you need to think like a business.

Develop your marketing plan for you or your group. Write down what you aim to achieve, how long it will take you, your plan of action and who you are expecting to reach by that specific goal. Start with a certain niche not everyone might be a fan of your particular genre—some people are particular about their music so if you produce jazz, would you pitch your tracks to a strictly country fan?

ONLINE PROMOTION

Some musicians seem to be flying a lot of social media banners high to promote themselves these days but why not promote YOU as a brand by having your own website. Social networks are great for connecting but tying in your own website address to that network is that much more powerful and professional.

Your online campaign has the ability to reach a global audience so ensure that your website is clear, concise and well-developed with your information. Also, ensure you have a reputable web hosting provider that is secure for transactions and mailing list information.

Always keep track of your web hosting and domain due dates to guarantee service without interruption “This page cannot be displayed” is frustrating for people trying to book you or contact you.

Now promote your own website, gain search engine optimization and let people know in the online global community that you can be located at a centralized place.

LOCAL PROMOTION

Recently, I was speaking at a music panel for artist management and promotion and as the crowd spoke of which “online social networks” to engage on—the moderator quickly responded, “What about here in this room with all of you present? Did any of you forget this is ALSO a social network?”

We tend to forget that each person we meet is another person to promote what we are currently working on whether they are friend, co-worker, associate or otherwise. Each person is an extension of their own personal network so why not go to local events and promote your music, your website and most importantly, you. You never know who is out amongst the crowd—writer for a music review, producer for a well-known label, another musical act looking for an opening act or more importantly listeners eager for new music.

INTERNATIONAL PROMOTION

Online communities, message boards, press releases out to international media outlets—all are vehicles used to promote music each and every day.

Having a publicist draft and send a press release for something newsworthy can definitely catch the attention of media for a possible music review or interview. Message boards are also a perfect vehicle to capture the attention of new listeners or possible collaborative partners just make sure to have an agreement drafted with co-production deals.

Small rural city or large metropolis, everyone began somewhere if people do not know what you do or what you are working on whether locally or internationally—how can your desire be met?

Author: Alexandra Aguinaga -Music Room Co-Editor
website: www.allianceglobalmedia.com

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

(0 votes, average: 0.00 out of 5)
You need to be a registered member to rate this post.

 Loading ...

Add a comment