Building a strong and loyal fanbase is essential for musicians looking to succeed in the modern music industry. In an era of fierce competition and easy access to music, artists must employ strategic approaches to stand out and connect with their target audience. This blog post will delve into three influential books on the subject: “How To Make It in the New Music Business: Practical Tips on Building a Loyal Following and Making a Living as a Musician” by Ari Herstand, “Get More Fans: The DIY Guide to the New Music Business” by Jesse Cannon and Todd Thomas, and “Six-Figure Musician – How to Sell More Music, Get More People to Your Shows, and Make More Money in the Music Business” by David Hooper. By understanding the principles outlined in these books, musicians can effectively build a dedicated fanbase and thrive in the competitive music landscape.

Establishing a Strong Brand Identity:

A crucial aspect of building a fanbase is developing a unique and authentic brand identity. According to Ari Herstand, artists must define their unique selling proposition (USP) and consistently convey their brand message across different platforms. This involves honing in on your artistic vision, identifying your target audience, and aligning your image, sound, and values with the desired fanbase. By establishing a clear and compelling brand identity, musicians can differentiate themselves from the competition and attract like-minded fans who resonate with their art.

Utilizing Social Media and Online Platforms:

In “Get More Fans,” Jesse Cannon and Todd Thomas emphasize the power of social media and online platforms in expanding an artist’s reach. It is vital for musicians to engage with their audience on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Regularly posting captivating content, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interacting with fans can foster a sense of community and strengthen the bond between artists and their followers. By utilizing these platforms effectively, artists can leverage the potential for viral sharing and organic growth, reaching a broader audience and cultivating a loyal fanbase.

Building a Personal Connection:

David Hooper’s “Six-Figure Musician” stresses the significance of establishing a personal connection with fans. Going beyond the digital realm, musicians should strive to engage with their audience on a deeper level through live performances, meet-and-greets, and exclusive fan experiences. By making themselves accessible and showing genuine appreciation for their supporters, artists can forge meaningful connections that foster loyalty. When fans feel a personal connection with an artist, they are more likely to become enthusiastic advocates, spreading the word about their music and driving further engagement.

Leveraging Collaborations and Networking:

In an industry that thrives on collaboration, networking is a powerful tool for expanding a fanbase. Connecting with other musicians, industry professionals, and influencers can lead to mutually beneficial partnerships, joint performances, and cross-promotion. Building relationships and leveraging existing networks can expose artists’ music to new audiences and help grow their fanbase organically. By tapping into the collective reach and influence of their peers, musicians can expand their fanbase more effectively and increase their chances of success.

Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics:

Understanding the audience and their preferences is crucial for effective fanbase building. Ari Herstand emphasizes the importance of utilizing data and analytics tools to gain insights into demographics, listening habits, and engagement patterns. This information can guide marketing strategies, content creation, and tour planning, allowing artists to tailor their efforts to meet their fans’ expectations and interests. By leveraging data and analytics, musicians can make informed decisions and optimize their fanbase-building efforts.

Building a strong and loyal fanbase is an ongoing process that requires dedication, authenticity, and strategic planning. By implementing the principles discussed in the books “How To Make It in the New Music Business,” “Get More Fans,” and “Six-Figure Musician,” musicians can cultivate a dedicated following that will support their journey and contribute to their long-term success in the music industry.

To further enhance fanbase-building efforts, consider leveraging the power of playlist promotion services like Playlist Streams. With its targeted promotion and industry connections, Playlist Streams can help artists reach a wider audience, increase their streams, and grow their fanbase. Visit http://www.playliststreams.com/pricing to explore the available options and supercharge your music career.

Remember, building a fanbase takes time and persistence, but by implementing these strategies and staying true to your artistic vision, you can cultivate a strong and loyal following that will support you on your musical journey.

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of music, understanding the intricacies of contracts, royalties, and revenue streams is essential for aspiring musicians and industry professionals alike. These elements form the backbone of the music business, shaping the financial landscape and determining the success of artists and their ventures. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating realm of the music business, exploring the key concepts behind contracts, royalties, and revenue streams. Drawing insights from authoritative sources such as “Run Your Music Business” by Audrey K. Chisholm Esq, “Indie Artist Guide” by The Industry Unveiled, and “Music Business Essentials” by Kevin Craig, we will shed light on the vital aspects that shape the modern music industry.

Contracts: The Foundation of Music Business
Contracts serve as the bedrock upon which the music industry operates, ensuring that all parties involved are protected and fairly compensated. Audrey K. Chisholm Esq, in her book “Run Your Music Business,” provides valuable guidance on the intricacies of contract negotiation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the terms and conditions. Whether it’s a recording contract, publishing agreement, or licensing deal, artists need to be well-versed in the legal language and clauses that govern their rights and obligations. By carefully reviewing contracts, artists can safeguard their creative output, ensure proper compensation, and avoid potential pitfalls.

Royalties: Unlocking Income Streams
Royalties are the lifeblood of musicians, enabling them to earn income from their creative works. “Indie Artist Guide” by The Industry Unveiled offers a comprehensive exploration of the various types of royalties, including mechanical royalties, performance royalties, and synchronization royalties. Mechanical royalties, for instance, are generated from the reproduction and distribution of music, such as sales of physical copies and digital downloads. On the other hand, performance royalties are earned when music is publicly performed, whether on the radio, in live venues, or through streaming services. Understanding the nuances of royalty collection and licensing agencies is crucial for artists to maximize their earnings and ensure they receive fair compensation for their artistry.

Revenue Streams: Diversifying the Music Business
In an era of digital music consumption, artists must explore diverse revenue streams beyond traditional album sales. “Music Business Essentials” by Kevin Craig provides valuable insights into the modern music landscape, highlighting the significance of exploring new avenues for generating income. Revenue streams such as streaming platforms, merchandise sales, sync licensing, and live performances all contribute to an artist’s financial success. The book emphasizes the importance of artist development and strategic marketing, enabling musicians to promote their work and build a dedicated fan base effectively. By diversifying revenue streams, artists can enhance their financial stability and create sustainable careers in the music industry.

Navigating Copyrights and Intellectual Property:
Understanding copyright laws and protecting intellectual property is paramount in the music industry. Both “Run Your Music Business” and “Music Business Essentials” provide in-depth coverage of copyright registration, infringement, and the protection of creative works. By registering their compositions and recordings, artists gain legal protection and can enforce their rights in case of unauthorized use or plagiarism. Additionally, knowledge of fair use, public domain, and licensing can empower artists to explore collaborations, sample existing works, and create new revenue opportunities.

Contracts, royalties, and revenue streams are the pillars that underpin the business of music. By comprehending the intricacies of contract negotiation, royalty collection, and diversifying revenue streams, artists can navigate the complex music industry landscape and build successful careers. Additionally, leveraging innovative platforms like Playlist Streams can help artists gain exposure, increase their streaming numbers, and reach a wider audience, ultimately boosting their chances of success in the competitive music market.

The music industry is more accessible than ever before. Artists can create and share their music with a global audience, allowing for unprecedented opportunities for exposure and success. However, with so much competition, it’s crucial for musicians to understand the fundamentals of music promotion to ensure their work reaches the right ears. In this blog post, we will explore some key strategies and insights from renowned authors Audrey K. Chisholm, Mike King, and Ray D. Waddell to help you effectively promote your music and expand your reach.

1. Understanding the Music Business:
Audrey K. Chisholm’s book, “Start Your Music Business: How to Earn Royalties, Own Your Music, Sample Music, Protect Your Name & Structure Your Music Business,” provides valuable insights into the business side of the music industry. Before diving into promotion, it is crucial to understand the basics of music rights, royalties, and ownership. By educating yourself on these aspects, you can protect your work, ensure fair compensation, and make informed decisions regarding your music’s distribution.

2. Developing an Effective Marketing Strategy:
Mike King’s “Music Marketing: Press, Promotion, Distribution, and Retail” emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted marketing strategy. Begin by defining your target audience and understanding their preferences. Research their listening habits, preferred platforms, and influencers they follow. This information will help you tailor your promotional efforts and choose the most effective channels to reach your target audience.

3. Building Your Online Presence:
In today’s digital landscape, establishing a strong online presence is crucial for music promotion. Utilize social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, to engage with your audience, share your music, and create a community around your work. Additionally, maintain a professional website or artist profile on platforms like SoundCloud, Spotify, and Bandcamp to showcase your music and offer easy access to your songs.

4. Creating Engaging Content:
To capture the attention of potential listeners, it’s essential to create engaging and visually appealing content. Incorporate high-quality images, music videos, and lyric videos into your promotional strategy. Consider collaborating with visual artists or videographers to create captivating visuals that complement your music. Engaging content not only grabs attention but also encourages sharing, extending your reach organically.

5. Leveraging Music Streaming Platforms:
Streaming platforms have revolutionized the music industry, and understanding how to navigate them is vital for successful music promotion. Submit your music to platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, and ensure your profiles are complete and visually appealing. Collaborate with playlist curators and influencers within your genre to feature your music, exposing it to their established fan base. This can significantly increase your chances of reaching a wider audience.

6. Harnessing the Power of Influencer Marketing:
Influencer marketing has become a valuable tool for promoting music. Identify influencers in your genre or niche who have a substantial following and engage with their audience. Collaborate with influencers to feature your music in their content, such as reviews, playlists, or sponsored posts. Their endorsement can significantly expand your reach and introduce your music to new listeners.

7. Collaboration and Networking:
Networking with fellow musicians, industry professionals, and influencers can open doors to new opportunities. Attend local music events, conferences, and workshops to connect with like-minded individuals. Collaborate with other artists on tracks, guest features, or joint performances, which can help you tap into each other’s fan bases and expose your music to new audiences.

8. Live Performances and Touring:
Ray D. Waddell’s “This Business of Concert Promotion and Touring” emphasizes the significance of live performances in promoting your music. Regularly perform at local venues, festivals, and events to showcase your talent and build a reputation as a captivating live performer. As your fan base grows, consider planning regional tours to expand your reach and connect with fans in different locations.

Promoting your music in today’s competitive landscape requires a multifaceted approach that combines a strong online presence, engaging content creation, effective marketing strategies, and an understanding of the music business. By implementing the strategies discussed above and incorporating insights from Audrey K. Chisholm’s “Start Your Music Business,” Mike King’s “Music Marketing,” and Ray D. Waddell’s “This Business of Concert Promotion and Touring,” you can increase your chances of getting your music heard by more people. Remember, consistent effort, patience, and perseverance are key to achieving your goals in the music industry.

As you strive to get your music heard by more people, consider leveraging services like Playlist Streams to enhance your music promotion efforts. Playlist Streams offers a range of promotional packages that can help you gain exposure on curated playlists and reach a wider audience, providing an additional boost to your music career.

In today’s competitive music industry, having exceptional talent is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly succeed, musicians must also understand the importance of building a strong brand and effectively marketing themselves. This blog post will explore key strategies for musicians to create a powerful brand identity and promote themselves in a crowded marketplace. Drawing insights from notable books like “Music Marketing for the DIY Musician” by Bobby Borg, “Social Media Marketing For Musicians That Works!: Vol. I Essentials You Need To Know” by Dan Shinder, and “Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook: 201 Self-Promotion Ideas for Songwriters, Musicians & Bands on a Budget (Revised & Updated)” by Bob Baker, we’ll uncover actionable tips to enhance your music marketing efforts.

1. Define Your Brand Identity:
Building a strong brand starts with understanding who you are as an artist and what sets you apart from others. Bobby Borg emphasizes this in “Music Marketing for the DIY Musician.” Define your unique sound, image, and values to create a brand identity that resonates with your target audience. Consider your musical genre, visual style, and the emotions you want to evoke through your music.

2. Craft a Compelling Story:
Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with fans on a deeper level. Bob Baker, in his “Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook,” stresses the importance of sharing your story authentically. Develop a narrative that communicates your musical journey, influences, and experiences that shape your artistry. This narrative will help fans relate to you and create a stronger connection.

3. Leverage Social Media:
Dan Shinder’s “Social Media Marketing For Musicians That Works!: Vol. I Essentials You Need To Know” underscores the significance of social media in today’s music landscape. Utilize platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to engage with your audience, share content, and promote your brand. Develop a consistent posting schedule, interact with fans, and use social media features to showcase your music and personality effectively.

4. Create Engaging Content:
To build a loyal fan base, consistently produce high-quality content. Bobby Borg highlights this in his book. Share behind-the-scenes footage, studio sessions, live performances, music videos, and vlogs to give fans a glimpse into your creative process and lifestyle. Encourage audience participation and create interactive experiences to foster a sense of community.

5. Collaborate with Influencers:
In the “Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook,” Bob Baker emphasizes the power of collaboration. Partnering with influencers, other musicians, or brands can expose your music to new audiences and enhance your brand’s credibility. Seek out opportunities for guest features, joint performances, or cross-promotions to expand your reach and connect with potential fans.

6. Engage with Your Fans:
Building a strong brand involves building strong relationships with your fans. Interact with them genuinely and regularly. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions, and make your followers feel valued and appreciated. Bobby Borg emphasizes the importance of creating a strong fan base and turning them into loyal supporters who will champion your music.

7. Utilize Email Marketing:
Incorporate email marketing as a powerful tool to communicate directly with your fans. Bobby Borg’s “Music Marketing for the DIY Musician” emphasizes the value of building an email list. Encourage fans to sign up by offering exclusive content, early access to releases, or special discounts. Regularly send newsletters with updates, upcoming shows, and new releases to nurture your relationship with your audience.

8. Stage Memorable Live Performances:
Live performances are crucial for creating a lasting impact on your fans. Bob Baker’s “Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook” suggests innovative ways to enhance your live performances, such as incorporating multimedia elements, offering merch, and engaging with the audience. Create a unique and memorable experience that showcases your music and brand identity.

In the music industry, building a strong brand is essential to achieving long-term success. By understanding your unique sound, values, and story, you can develop a powerful brand identity that resonates with your target audience. Leverage social media, create engaging content, collaborate with influencers, engage with your fans, and utilize email marketing to promote yourself effectively. By incorporating these strategies and tips from Bobby Borg’s “Music Marketing for the DIY Musician,” Dan Shinder’s “Social Media Marketing For Musicians That Works!: Vol. I Essentials You Need To Know,” and Bob Baker’s “Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook,” you can build a strong brand as a musician and stand out in a crowded marketplace.

To further support your marketing efforts, consider utilizing services like PlaylistStreams, which can help you gain exposure and reach new audiences through curated playlists. Remember, a strong brand combined with strategic marketing initiatives will propel your music career forward and set you apart in the competitive music industry.

Being an artist is not just about creating music. It also involves a lot of business-related tasks, such as negotiating deals, managing finances, promoting oneself, and organizing tours. To make an artist’s career successful, they need a team of people who can help them with these tasks. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of these key people and at what point artists should start hiring them.

1. Entertainment Lawyer

An entertainment lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in the entertainment industry. They help artists with contract negotiations, copyright issues, and other legal matters. Having an entertainment lawyer is crucial for artists as they navigate the complex world of the music industry. An entertainment lawyer can help protect an artist’s rights and ensure that they are compensated fairly for their work.

Artists should consider hiring an entertainment lawyer as soon as they start receiving offers for recording contracts, publishing deals, or any other type of contract related to their career. It’s essential to have someone who can review these contracts and ensure that the artist’s interests are protected.

2. Manager

A manager is responsible for overseeing an artist’s career. They handle everything from booking gigs to managing finances. A good manager can help an artist navigate the music industry, make important decisions, and build relationships with industry professionals.

Artists should start looking for a manager when they have established a fan base and are starting to receive offers for gigs, recording contracts, and other opportunities. A manager can help the artist evaluate these offers and make decisions that will benefit their career.

3. Business Manager

A business manager is responsible for managing an artist’s finances. They handle everything from budgeting to tax preparation. A business manager can help an artist stay financially organized and make smart financial decisions.

Artists should consider hiring a business manager when their career starts to take off and they are generating significant income. It’s essential to have someone who can help manage finances and ensure that the artist is making sound financial decisions.

4. Publishing Company

A publishing company is responsible for promoting an artist’s music and securing licensing deals for their music. They can help an artist earn money from their music through royalties and licensing deals.

Artists should start looking for a publishing company when they have established a fan base and are creating music that is commercially viable. A publishing company can help the artist promote their music and secure licensing deals that will help them earn money from their music.

5. A&R

An A&R (Artists and Repertoire) representative is responsible for scouting talent and signing artists to recording contracts. They help an artist develop their sound and find the right producers and songwriters to work with.

Artists should start looking for an A&R representative when they have established a unique sound and are ready to take their career to the next level. An A&R representative can help an artist find the right team to work with and secure a recording contract that will benefit their career.

6. Distribution Company / Record Label

A distribution company or record label is responsible for distributing an artist’s music to stores, streaming platforms, and other distribution channels. They can help an artist reach a broader audience and earn money from their music.

Artists should start looking for a distribution company or record label when they have established a fan base and are creating music that is commercially viable. A distribution company or record label can help an artist distribute their music and reach a broader audience.

7. Marketing Department and Product Manager

A marketing department and product manager are responsible for promoting an artist’s music and developing marketing campaigns that will help them reach a broader audience. They can help an artist build a strong brand and increase their visibility.

Artists should start looking for a marketing department and product manager when they have established a fan base and are ready to take their career to the next level. A marketing department and product manager can

help an artist create a strong brand and develop a marketing strategy that will help them reach a broader audience.

8. Press, PR, and Publicity Teams

Press, PR, and publicity teams are responsible for getting an artist’s name out to the public. They help an artist get featured in magazines, newspapers, and online publications. They can also help an artist with social media marketing and other promotional efforts.

Artists should start looking for a press, PR, and publicity team when they have established a fan base and are ready to increase their visibility. A good press, PR, and publicity team can help an artist get the exposure they need to take their career to the next level.

9. Social Media Manager

A social media manager is responsible for managing an artist’s social media accounts. They can help an artist build a following on social media and engage with their fans.

Artists should start looking for a social media manager when they have established a fan base and are ready to increase their social media presence. A social media manager can help an artist create content that resonates with their fans and build a strong online presence.

10. Radio and Research Departments

Radio and research departments are responsible for promoting an artist’s music on radio stations and other media outlets. They can help an artist get airplay and increase their visibility.

Artists should start looking for a radio and research department when they have established a fan base and are ready to promote their music to a wider audience. A good radio and research department can help an artist get the airplay they need to increase their visibility and reach a broader audience.

11. Booking Agent

A booking agent is responsible for booking gigs and managing an artist’s tour schedule. They can help an artist find the right venues to play and negotiate contracts for shows.

Artists should start looking for a booking agent when they have established a fan base and are ready to start playing shows. A booking agent can help an artist find the right venues to play and negotiate contracts for shows.

12. Tour Manager

A tour manager is responsible for managing an artist’s tour schedule and ensuring that everything runs smoothly on the road. They can help an artist plan their tour, coordinate travel arrangements, and manage the logistics of playing shows.

Artists should start looking for a tour manager when they have established a fan base and are ready to start touring. A tour manager can help an artist plan their tour and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the road.

13. Music Director

A music director is responsible for overseeing the musical aspects of an artist’s live show. They can help an artist arrange their music for live performance and work with the band to ensure that everything sounds great on stage.

Artists should start looking for a music director when they have established a fan base and are ready to start playing live shows. A music director can help an artist arrange their music for live performance and ensure that everything sounds great on stage.

14. Audio Engineer

An audio engineer is responsible for recording an artist’s music and ensuring that it sounds great. They can help an artist create high-quality recordings that will help them stand out in a crowded market.

Artists should start looking for an audio engineer when they are ready to record their music. An audio engineer can help an artist create high-quality recordings that will help them stand out in a crowded market.

In conclusion, the music industry can be a challenging and complex place for artists to navigate on their own. That’s why it’s essential to have a team of professionals who can help with everything from legal matters to finance management, marketing, and tour planning. As an artist’s career grows and develops, so too should their team of professionals. By hiring the right people at the right time, artists can ensure that their career continues to thrive and reach new heights.

To say we are living in unprecedented times would be an understatement. COVID-19 has truly not only changed the way billions of people around the world live their lives on a personal level, but it has also altered the manner in which all businesses, including the music industry, function in some material form. Before the coronavirus hit the USA the strongest in March 2020, the industry was seeing high revenues; in fact, in the first half of 2019 total revenues grew 18% to an aggregate of $5.4 billion. Additionally, streaming covered about 80% of the music business’s revenues in 2019. But once the virus’s effects began to be felt strongly as March progressed, former leading forms of revenue such as streaming and concerts were now nonexistent due to social distancing and limitations on large gatherings for the sake of public health. A six-month shutdown was estimated to cost the industry more than $10 billion in sponsorships. Though this is devastating, make no mistake, the music business is fighting back and learning how to function in the midst of this global health pandemic. No one can be sure about what the future has in store, but the one thing we can ensure is that the measures that are taken now will be pivotal in understanding how we can expect to see the industry transform in the years to come.

The Live Sector – A New Way to Engage with Fans

With bans on mass gatherings, artists can no longer perform and promote their music via the medium of a live concert performance with thousands of fans in attendance. The effects of this reality are larger than one may think as it extends to everyone that would be involved in making live performances a possibility: artists, fans, technicians, bartenders, agents, security, setup /cleanup services, and so many more.

One of the first alternatives that arose was that venues provided a live stream of artists’ performances at that venue which fans can watch online. However, the sites that offered these services quickly shut down and now artists have turned to platforms like Twitch and Instagram TV/Live to broadcast their music directly from their own homes. This medium has actually increased the audiences of a myriad of artists and recognizing the larger audience, record labels have begun to support these methods by providing artists with live stream equipment. This relatively new form of performing has also led to new forms of monetization for artists aside from the traditional viewer rates: some allow fans to purchase memberships which give them early access to exclusive content, while others even allow for unique commenting abilities. This new form of performing has actually led to musicians seeing substantial growth in their incomes.

With the reality that fans may not be able to attend large scale concerts until Fall 2021, this may be a strategy that is here to stay. Other businesses have taken note of this tool Verizon is working on bringing its services to Live Nation Entertainment in order to help organize larger virtual gatherings through which artists can showcase their music. Vivendi is also establishing a service through which artists can perform their music with their fans while also sharing exclusive musical content with them. With all the players in the field of virtual performances and online gatherings, it seems like the Internet and live streaming will be one of the alternatives we will most heavily see in the age of the coronavirus.

Advertising and Distribution

Advertising has also taken quite a substantial hit in the music industry because of the coronavirus. Nearly a fourth of all media brands have temporarily halted their advertising for the first half of 2020, and almost half of them have reduced their expenses on it altogether. This will severely impact music channels that are dependent on ad revenues and further impact the income specific artists receive. A prime example of this was seen with Spotify, who announced that it missed its advertising revenue targets due to the changes it experienced in advertisement budgeting. This effect is not just limited to Spotify, but also its artists who use the platform like this can lessen their individual income. Will advertisements see a resurgence in the future? The answer is likely yes, but in what form and exactly when that would be is still up in the air.

When it comes to distribution, coronavirus has caused a number of artists to delay their releases into later in the year. This is partially due to the inability of artists to now go on tours to promote their music as a plethora of music festivals and events have been momentarily postponed or canceled. The absence of live performances can be understood as nearly a cut of half of the industry’s total revenue; pushing artists and agents to explore other mediums for gaining back that lost capital. Although live stream performances are a start, that is nowhere near enough and record label groups have understood this.

Groups such as Universal Music Group and Live Nation Entertainment, as well as streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, have provided funding efforts to aid artists whose incomes have been diminished due to the coronavirus. They have also established practices in distribution that is more helpful to artists such as interest-free advances on royalty payments. It is truly a rallying of the music community to help sustain the one thing all entities in the field love: music. Consumers have begun to use more streaming with the loss of live performances and also stream the music on home appliances much more such as televisions. The coronavirus has undoubtedly shifted the advertising and distribution sectors as well.

The Future

The Internet will be the prevalent home for artists and fans for the time being. With less physical interactions between musicians and their audiences, virtual performances will be the new normal for at least a year into the future. With the success many artists have been having with this format, who knows? There is a possibility that even after the pandemic comes to a close, online performances will become just as customary as live ones. Additionally, the coronavirus has shifted distribution and advertising practices. The good thing for the fans is that this means there are more possibilities for them to get exclusive content from their favorite artists now. However, what is most interesting is the change in the sound of music.

Spotify has reported that in addition to adding subscribers to its streaming platform in the first quarter of 2020, it has also noted a boost in listeners of their relaxing and peaceful musical genres. Whether or not this is due to the isolation and introspection that comes with quarantine, artists should and will pay attention to this and reflect the relaxing elements into their music as well. To achieve success in this day and age, success in streaming is still a constant. With PlaylistStreams.com, artists can do just that by achieving their desired organic streams at a competitive price; thus with our service, even in these confusing times, artists can deliver their music to their fans. With the coronavirus, there is no telling when things will get back to the future. However, we will all get through this and so will the music industry.

Music streaming platform Spotify boasts 286 million monthly active users as of 2020, claiming 36% of the global streaming market. Yet, the app is able to create personalized recommendations of playlists, songs, and content for every one of these users who log on. 

How? The answer lies in the data.

Big data truly is the trend nowadays, and for good reason. Spotify leverages this big data through its well-developed algorithms, which are essentially a set of rules to be executed by a computer to solve a problem. Spotify’s algorithm learns from each time a user clicks on, saves, and listens to a song. It further monitors music history, skipped songs, past playlists, and even location to recommend music and save user data. Interestingly, the algorithm also looks at how long a user listens to a song. If the person listens for more than 30 seconds, Spotify will mark this song as a liked song that will be used for future song references. Spotify can therefore recommend songs based on previous music sessions, but can also add fresh songs that are likely to match a users preferences. While it may seem bizarre that this single app is capable of holding so much data, it is precisely the mechanism that sets the app apart from other music streaming services. 

There are three main algorithmic playlists that artists can be featured on: Discover Weekly, Release Radar, and Daily Mix. Discover Weekly contains songs that are custom tailored to the users listening history, as well as listening history of similar individuals. It is updated biweekly with new songs that Spotify’s algorithm predicts a user will enjoy. Release Radar contains new songs released by artists, and Daily Mix playlists are curated based on genre. Up to 6 Daily Mix playlists can show up on a user’s homepage based on different genres explored during the week. These playlists are all dynamic, changing with the songs and artists users explore each week. 

As an artist, the importance of having your content land on one of these algorithmic playlists cannot be understated. They reach a massive amount of targeted listeners who are very likely to listen to the song in full, save the song, and continue sharing it through their personal playlists and audience. The result is a large amount of high-quality streams that is likely to help developing artists reach more widespread fame in the heavily fragmented and dynamic music industry. For some artists, it can be a necessary step to getting their music noticed and becoming a full-time music creator. Though streams and monthly listeners do not necessarily equate long-term fans, more streams and listeners from real people increases scope of influence an artist can get. From there, the opportunities to get placed on editorial playlists or personal user-created playlists is boundless. 

The only way artists can ensure the highest chances of landing their music on these algorithmic playlists is through high user engagement and of course, a well-made and catchy song. The more users that engage with your music on Spotify, the more likely a song can be caught by the algorithm and gain a coveted spot on a Spotify playlist. Music creators can also increase overall engagement by having their song placed on a listener-curated playlist or editorial playlists, which accept music pitches through Spotify for Artists. PlaylistStreams in particular can draw on its vast resources and playlist database spanning various genres to help get artists’ songs placed on these listener-curated playlists, ensuring that the song will receive real streams from real Spotify users. With PlaylistStreams, artists are more likely to notice steady growth in monthly listeners and overall streams on Spotify and other music streaming platforms, meaning a higher chance of getting picked up by the Spotify algorithm. 

If you are a music creator with songs that possesses great potential, continuously promoting your current and previous releases with PlaylistStreams and platforms such as Spotify will allow your content to reach the widest audience possible. Being placed on a popular playlist and gaining a huge increase in streams should be celebrated, but the work does not stop there, as being an artist means constant work for personal growth. With music marketing services such as the campaign plans from PlaylistStreams, any artist can gain the amount of streams within their goal range in addition to loyal listeners cross-platform. 

We get asked by a numerous amount of people how do they get their music on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, etc. Digital distribution is what you would need. Distributors are the ones who get your music on all the Digital Service Providers (Spotify, Apple, etc.) libraries. Some companies whom you can sign up for distribution are Tunecore, AWAL, DITTO, Distro Kid, United Masters etc. Each one of them are different and you should weigh the pros and cons of each company.

We found a great and very informative article comparing these distribution companies. The article covers everything from what distribution companies do, how to work with a company, how to get a distribution deal, the fee structure and services.

In addition, it also has a chart comparing each distributor side by side. When deciding on a distributor make sure you work with a company who best fits your goals as an artist. For detailed information please read the article by the music distribution gurus.

Once you have your song upload to a distributor, you then can send us a link to your music so that we can get them on Playlist.