How to make it as an independent artist

There are a few tips that can ensure becoming a successful independent artist. It can be a scary thought but know that there are musicians who have done it in the past, and there are musicians who will do it in the future. Make use of the all the information available to you, and don’t give up, it is very possible.

How do you become a successful independent musician?

Connecting with fans is a key factor in being an independent artist. Interacting with fans online by posting regularly on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as responding to their comments and questions will connect you more with the people who are listening to and sharing your music. Build an email list to stay connected with your fans. Permission-based marketing using emails to your fan-base is a proven winner because these are the people who said that they want to stay in touch with you.

A strong brand identity will help people to instantly recognise you and want to buy your t-shirts or other merchandise. Striking graphics on your website, social media, business cards etc, are all part of brand awareness. If you do not know how to do everything yourself, you should hire a graphic designer.

If people are going to become fans of your music, you must approach the promoting of your CD releases the same way that artists who you admire have promoted theirs. Get into it. Marketing music has changed drastically in the age of the Internet and social media. That very technology has the potential to take your music to the world. It is your job to take that first step, in bridging the gap, as a responsible independent artist.

Streaming is not something that you can or should ignore. Many musicians are not sure whether this is the right thing to do, but getting your music out there is the bottom line and Spotify or Apple music are a vital way of having your music heard. Stay focused on your goal and don’t let little speed bumps stop you from achieving it. Hard work does pay off.

Use the internet and all its tools to your advantage. Apart from your own domain name and website where you promote releases, you should also have a presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Also, make sure there is access to your music through YouTube, SoundCloud, iTunes store, CD Baby and the like.

How has Devine Lie done it?

Devine Lie is an independent group and they use CD baby to get their music out to the public. CD Baby is an online CD store that is the largest global digital distributor of independent music. It is also one of the most trusted names in the music business, as well as the go-to resource for educational information concerning music promotion, distribution, and management. To stay independent, but still get their music out there, Devine Lie makes full use of CD baby to distribute their songs. Devine Lie has also made full use of online media to get their name out there. They have a website and all kinds of social media where they regularly post new music and videos as well as interact with fans.

Focus on being the best in your music and making it stand out. Be patient and if you use all the information available, you will make it as an independent artist. Many artists who people refer to as “overnight successes” have in reality been years in the making. Being a musician is not for everyone, but with hard work, it can be hugely rewarding.