Releasing and creating a song is not as challenging as establishing a fan base is. Therefore, you must not wait until your release day to promote your song. The best and most effective marketing tactic is to keep the audience in curiosity. Tell them that something exciting is coming to entertain them, and to entice them make sure you are introducing the short video clips every other day. If you are new indie artist in the industry, then going with a single is the safest bet, it helps in generating the interest of your audience, and you gradually build your fan base as well.

Some artists get lucky on their first go, their first released single gets considerable attention, and they generate extensive revenue as well only by their social media presence. However, sharing your music on your social media accounts and the sound cloud is not enough; you need to go out of your way to create a massive audience for your music. Once the song is in the market,  it can change the own world. There is a possibility of both, to wow the public by your music or to get ignored by the world. The key is to give your 100% and then wait for the audience reaction. Particularly in the case of independent artists, they have to put themselves out and prove the world about their worth. There is no denying to the fact that you have to work your finger to the bone for indie music promotion.

Nevertheless, if you are still clueless about what to do; first I would request you to relax your nerves and keep reading this article as here we will prepare you for the release of your first song.

1.Develop a Marketing Plan

Every business organization primarily creates a marketing plan, and then they act on it. Your music is your business if you are planning to make money out of it and why should you not, it’s better to earn from your skill then just let it rest in the corner. Nevertheless, it’s the first step of your promotional campaign, make sure you prepare the plan three months prior to the release date. Remember, you need to create curiosity in the audience and keep them hooked on to your social media profiles.

Divide your plan into multiple stages and layout different promotional plans for each step. Having a schedule makes everything comparatively easier, so plan out everything on a planner and follow it religiously. Think of all the ways to create a hype of your music, maybe do a podcast of your music journey or start a YouTube channel. There are many ways to do that; you only need to explore your options.

2.Create a story and narrate it

Your rock-solid pre-release campaign must include a backstory; there is always an inspiration and story behind each song. Even if you have randomly came up with your song, it’s better to create one story. While you are piquing your audience’s curiosity, its time you share the bits and piece of your story with them. Trust me; your audience will be eagerly waiting for the release date. Mainly, if the story is relatable to them, then your job here is done. Music promotions can seem pushy but narrating your story is more personal and engaging. The audience loves it when the artists connect with them on a personal level. 

3.Get yourself registered

The very first step of your musical career should be getting yourself registered. Try obtaining all the necessary licenses to safeguard your music work and get paid when others use your music in their movies and TV shows. Get your songs registered to the US copyright office, sound exchange and performing rights organization. It protects your intellectual property, and in case somebody tries to copy it, you have all the legal rights to sue them. Further, you can also monitor your progress if your song is registered with Nielsen BDS.

4.Update your bio and media gears

One of the most important steps of the preparation of the unsigned artist’s debut song is to keep their social media profiles and press gears updated. Your bio must be updated with your fresh song’s information and keep your gallery up to the mark too. Along with that, make sure your press kit is not outdated as the best way to release the song out in the world is through the press. Particularly, if you are looking for some paid gigs, then it is best to develop a close and cordial relationship with the media. 

5.Make connections

One of the many ways to excel in the music industry is to make relevant and famous connections. Be sure, the time you are investing in someone today can give you fruitful results tomorrow. Making strong connections and building your social circle does not only help in the music career, but it helps in all the other professions as well. So while you are in the music launch party, why not make acquaintances that can sponsor your next music video maybe?

6.Do not look for the short cuts

Short cuts may get you where you want to be, but this success will be short-lived. Take the longer and ethical route to reach your destination, grabbing other’s opportunity will get you fame only, but your conscience will never let you enjoy it. When artists get to their goal slowly and steadily, they value their position; therefore, they work harder to maintain it. It’s pretty early for you to get schooled about it, but it’s an important aspect that you must never forget no matter how successful and famous you get.

Conclusion

Moving up the success ladder is not easy regardless of your profession. Today social media has made it more accessible for the newcomers; however, the competition out there is pretty tough. One has to be dyed in the wool to their cause to reach to the top, as low willed candidates often lose the race.

Harper Harrison

Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.