Instead, you need to think of yourself and your band as a business, and you are the manager. And what do all successful businesses have? A plan. So here, in no particular order, are my top 5 steps to get you pointed in the right direction:
1. E-mail Is King!
Start an e-mail list, and get everybody to sign up for it. And I do mean everybody! Have a sign up form at every show that you play. Ask your friends and family to sign up. Network with other musicians and get them to sign up. Then, make sure you communicate with your entire list at least once a month. Make it a newsletter, and have content that is relevant and interesting. Don't just try to sell your albums and merchandise. Really try to connect with your fans.
2. Join The Social Networking Craze!
I will be the first to admit, I knew absolutely nothing about social networking when I started. And I still have plenty to learn. However, it is very important for you to have a Facebook page for your band, at the very least. You should also look into Twitter and YouTube. Learn how each of these networks tick, and get into the habit of sending out regular updates. Your fans like and follow you for a reason, so keep them interested.
3. Sign Up For Reverbnation!
Get a Reverbnation account, and aim for the top. Clearly define what genre of music you are, and work your way to at least the top 10 for your city. There are many factors that can contribute and help you, including: Reverbnation fans, fans from other social networking sites, total song plays, total profile views, and comments on your page. Remember, most people browsing a site will likely not look past the top 10, so that is your goal.
4. Create A Top Notch Product!
Your product is your music, whether that be a single song or an album. But it really is more than that. Your product will represent you to a wide range of people who don't know you on a personal level. Make sure that it is something to be proud of. Don't expect your demo recordings to do the job.
5. Work Hard!
Don't ever forget "It's a long way, to the top, if you want to rock and roll!" This has never been more true. The only bands and musicians that make it nowadays are the ones that work hard. A quote that I always remember and live by is this: "You can't control how successful someone else will be. But you can control how much harder you are willing to work for your own success."
Remember, everybody has the potential for success as a DIY Band. How much you put into it is directly proportionate to what you can get out of it.
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Rock On!
