The contacts listed are sorted into FIVE sections.
1. Publications that will REVIEW your music
2. Radio Stations/Shows that will PLAY your songs
3. Labels, Vendors and Promotional Services that will help you to SELL your CD
4. Sites where you can UPLOAD your band's MP3s or videos
5. Helpful Resources for recording artists
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2. SITES/PUBLICATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR MUSIC REVIEWED
The Inside Connection
140 Corporate Dr. Holtsville, NY 11742
PH: 631-654-3474 FX: 631-654-3475
info@insidecx.com
www.insidecx.com
We're always looking to hear great music and to hear from great musicians all over the country. You can be heard! You can be seen!
music-reviewer.com
Box 797, Albany, NY 12201
PH: 518-209-4056
Robert Lewis rlewis@music-reviewer.com
www.music-reviewer.com
One of the largest, longest-running independent music review zines on the internet, specializing in indie material.
Neo-Zine
116 E. Horner St., Ebensburg, PA 15931
Carnal neozine@verizon.net
http://www.myspace.com/neozine
We merge material from such diverse styles as Noise, Punk, Death Metal, Experimental, Gothic, Industrial, Black Metal, Ambient, Darkwave, Neomedieval, Shock Rock, Freeform Jazz, Joke-Core, Psychobilly, Grind, Thrash etc. We're all the same underground, we just express ourselves differently. The binding factor is that we are all outside the conventional norms. Send an e-mail first to make sure that I have some space, and then when I return the e-mail, you can send away!!!
Music Connection
16130 Ventura Blvd. #540, Encino, CA 91436
PH: 818-995-0101 FX: 818-995-9235
contactmc@musicconnection.com
www.musicconnection.com
Interviews, reviews, critiques and more!
Tinfoil Music - Digital Media and Music News
Joe McGuire
tinfoil@gmail.com
www.tinfoilmusic.net
We review some CDs (depending on the genre). We only have so many people available to review and can only cover so many genres. We also run press releases, tour info and CD release dates.
Indie In-Tune Magazine
PO Box 355, Epping, NH 03042-0355 Attn: Reviews
Bob Donovan
editor@IndieIntune.com
www.indieintune.com
3 Publications in 1! Indie IN-TUNE, Carpe Nocturne & The Metal Horizon; all offering honest, positive WORLDWIDE coverage. Indie IN-TUNE is a monthly music, arts and entertainment publication that accepts little advertising. Our reviews and coverage IS NOT swayed by the advertising dollar! Our primary focus is covering, reviewing and spotlighting the Indie/unsigned artists and music scenes of the world! From Rock, Alternative and Metal to Folk, Acoustic, Goth, Industrial and Hip Hop. We are a STRONG supporter of Female Musicians and Acts. Indie IN-TUNE is proud to have writers and reviewers around the world! E-MAIL US FIRST – TELL US WHAT YOU DO!
Rock And Metal Domain
Matthew White
matw_1979@yahoo.co.uk
www.rockandmetaldomain.co.uk
Rock and Metal website with news, reviews, bands and links.
Eager Magazine
customerservice@eagermagazine.com
www.eagermagazine.com
Gospel music, movies, press releases, industry news and music spotlights. Unsigned and independent Gospel artists are encouraged to submit music to the magazine through email or press release links.
Dish Magazine
1017 3rd Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37210
PH: 615-313-8633 FX: 615-244-6655
postmaster@dishmag.com
www.dishmag.com
An entertainment, fashion and style magazine for young women of all ages. Includes music features, news and reviews.
3. RADIO SHOWS THAT WILL PLAY YOUR MUSIC
Sonic 1 Radio
887 Pleasant Park Rd. Ottawa, ON K1G 1Z1
PH: 613-765-7808
Dave dave@sonic1radio.com
www.sonic1radio.com
Internet radio station playing Modern, Alternative, Classic Alternative and Indie music.
2hot4radio
700 N. Calhoune St. Ste B-10, Tallahassee, FL 32313
PH/FX: 407-902-4228
J. A. Myrick jovanmyrick@yahoo.com
www.2hot4radio.us
We specialize in underground Hip Hop promotions marketing pirate radio. We are more than just a station, we are the underground force behind the movement!
Radio Gets Wild
Rose Cottage, Grimston Rd. Gayton, Norfolk, England
PH: +4415536361169
Tim Station
tim@radiogetswild.com
http://www.radiogetswild.com
An online interactive community radio station with DJ broadcasters from all around the world. A station by the people for the people from all ages and walks of life. A caring sharing community of which everyone helps each other both in work and play, and a community everyone is very proud to be a part of. We also have submit reviews, interviews, personal or public photo albums.. and worlds more...membership is free so please come in and have a look around.
IndieCan Radio - THE TORONTO INDIE SCENE
50 Cordova Ave. #2102, Toronto, ON M9A 4X6
Joe Chisholm
info@indiecan.com
www.indiecan.com
One hour a week of the best music you've never heard. This acclaimed syndicated podcast brings you up close and personal with the best emerging talent in Canada. IndieCan brings you backstage to learn the realities of indie music life in Canada.
OnPoint.FM
PH: 877-597-6468 FX: 336-273-7324
info@onpoint.fm
www.onpoint.fm
Hip Hop radio for your soul!
Worldwide Music Exchange WDYN
1318 East lT, Russellville, AR 72801
Ray
cfans@arkansas.net
We play all indie music in the following formats: Traditional Country, Blues, Bluegrass, Folk, Southern Gospel, Rockabilly Hillbilly and Mountain music.
Moozikoo Radio
PO Box 50322, Nashville, TN 37205-0322
Anthony Bates anthony@moozikoo.com
www.moozikooradio.com
Our goal is to bring you the best music from today's independent artists. We focus on music in the Americana, Alt. Rock, Bluegrass, Blues, and Alt. Country genres.
eoRadio
PO Box 441234, Aurora, CO 80014-1234
PH: 303-808-8140
Ryan Smith webmaster@eoradio.com
http://www.eoradio.com
The best free music from unsigned artists from around the globe.
4. SERVICES/VENDORS/LABELS THAT WILL HELP SELL YOUR MUSIC
https://indiespotifybible.com
Nina Denny Public Relations
PO Box 1248, Ogdensburg, NY 13669
PH: 315-323-1058 FX: 877-349-0225
Nina
ndenny@ninadenny.com
www.ninadenny.com
PR with a personal touch, affordable rates and music expertise.
MusicSUBMIT
650 Pennsylvania #25, Miami Beach, FL 33139
PH: 888-476-8745 FX: 303-444-9122
Michael
support@musicsubmit.com
www.MusicSUBMIT.com
Promotes your music to the decision makers at Internet radio stations, music blogs, online music magazines and more, AND we give you a full report of everything we do for you!
Last Tango Productions
29 Galley Ave. Toronto, ON M6R 1G9
PH: 416-538-1838 FX: 416-538-2633
Yvonne Valnea
lasttango@rogers.com
www.lasttangoproductions.com
National publicity & radio tracking. Tour support and promotions.
MiaMindMusic
259 W. 30th St. #12FR, New York, NY 10001-2809
PH: 212-564-4611 FX: 212-564-4448
PPP PERSON PPPP
MiMiMus@aol.com
www.miamindmusic.com
Radio tracking and working with CMJ and R&R surveyed radio stations.
Wednesday Records
PO Box 2501, Santa Barbara, CA 93120
PH: 805-456-3619
www.wednesdayrecords.com
Purveyor of fine indie records.
Dying Giraffe Recordings
St. Anthoniusplaats 9, 6511 TR , Nijmegen, The Netherlands
PH: +31651094500 FX: +31243294235
Ingmar Jahn info@dyinggiraffe-recordings.com
www.dyinggiraffe-recordings.com
An online promotion and distribution platform for independent bands, both national and international. It is a record label that actively scouts bands and gets their music into the market.
CD Pulse
38439 5th Ave. Zephyrhills, FL 33542
PH: 813-862-3168
Ryan Gans info@cdpulse.com
www.cdpulse.com
We help independent artists with exposure and sales. We have programs for businesses that will help them to make money from their website.
M/I Productions
3737 Bales Ave. #200, Kansas City, MO 64128
PH: 816-921-3633
Terrell L. events@miproductions.org
www.MIProductions.org
A full-service Christian entertainment event production company concentrating on the creative development, project organization and implementation of concerts, networking meetings, conferences, religious services, project/product release parties, special events and other Christian entertainment gatherings. M/I Productions is also one of the nations leading ministries providing E-marketing services and online internet advertising.
King Cat Music
3737 Bales Ave. #200, Kansas City, MO 64128
PH: 813-921-3633
Terrell L. TerrellL@KingCatMusic.com
www.kingcatmusic.com
For Christian music listeners and Christian music creators. Come network and find out how to do your ministry with excellence.
Alien Punk Records
PO Box 113, Sanctuary Cove, QLD Australia 4212
PH: 0422463972 FX: 61-7-55778688
Tone Porno music@alienpunk.com.au
www.alienpunk.com.au
Indie record label and complete design service for music industry specialising in world class websites, event promotions and band management. Actively seeking new talent.
Denver&Dintorni Records
Via Casal de' pazzi, 20 1/C/19 00156 Rome, Italy
PH: 0039-3282748653 FX: 0039-064073553
Luigi Nespeca info@denveredintorni.com
www.denveredintorni.com
A new label that promotes only independent artists. You will find Folk, Country and Traditional music from Italy. Every style kind of music is welcome.
New Artists Online
PO Box 21437, Philadelphia, PA 19141
PH: 215-696-0598 FX: 215-548-9216
newartistsonline@newartistsonline.com
www.newartistsonline.com
An online record store dedicated to featuring, showcasing, and selling independent CDs online. We do not own or control any of your music and/or materials. We just sell and distribute your CDs from our website.
CD Networx
Craig Whitney bekker@bellsouth.net
www.cdnetworx.net/5225180
Independent CD distribution through networking and marketing. Offering unlimited potential.
Blue Canoe Records
17 Timberlake Cove, Cartersville, GA 30121-5200
bluecanoerecords@mac.com
www.BlueCanoeRecords.com
We're the first all digital Jazz record label. We would encourage any artists that might fit the umbrella of Jazz to submit to our label. Please see our current "submission policy" on our website.
The Sunset Records Group
1133 Broadway #708, New York, NY 10010
PH: 877-542-6664
Don.Lichterman@SunsetHolding.com
www.eSunsetRecords.com
We acquire, develop and distribute major music recording artists, home visual entertainment products, online-digital entertainment technologies and music and filmed entertainment worldwide.
Hire A Consultant
110 W. 26th St., New York, NY 10001-6805
PH: 212-645-3068
Ms Lovie Jones Lovie@CountdownEntertainment.com
www.CountdownEntertainment.com
We have a track record of representing multi-platinum & gold recording artists. We may be able to assist you with your career. If you have the "goods", we can provide industry contacts to listen to your music.
European Music Group GmbH
Claude Dornier Str.3, 73760 Ostfildern, Germany
PH: +49 (0) 7195-5884- 90 FX: +49 (0) 7195-5884- 91
Christian Schulze christian@emg-music.com
www.hitpack.de
Our aim is simply to release & promote great music we discover and believe in. Do you want a record deal? Do you want to be known internationally? And do you really want to make it one day? So don't miss this chance: The Hitpack NEW POP & NEW ROCK CD Sampler is THE ultimate stepping stone for your newcomer career and it already made many bands famous. Apply now and you will possibly be the next big thing! (Note: website is in German).
Genese Music and Entertainment Group
PO Box 245, Gambrills, MD 21054
PH: 410-514-8158 FX: 410-514-8158
Ralph Rogers infor@genesemusic.com
www.genesemusic.com
Genese maintains a small studio, deals with artist development and works on marketing and product development. Genese continues to look for talented artists. Please feel free to submit a demo of your most recent work.
Sunlight of the Spirit Music
PO Box 60097, Nashville, TN 37206
PH: 615-403-8587
Gracie Vandiver
gracie@mkbmedia.com
www.sunlightofthespiritmusic.com
Offering only the highest quality music that has been created by artists in recovery. Please contact us via our website for approval before submitting CDs.
Fast Lane International
4856 Haygood Rd. Virginia Beach, VA 23455
PH: 757-497-2669 FX: 757-497-5159
sully sully@fastlaneintl.com
www.fastlaneintl.com
Promotes shows and brokers for artists worldwide. Worldbeat and Fusion, Reggae, Ska, Dance and Alternative Rock.
Just Music / Absolute Zero / Just Publishing
Hope House, 40 St Peters Rd. London W6 9BD UK
PH: +44 (0) 20-8741-6020
Serena Benedict
justmusic@justmusic.co.uk
www.justmusic.co.uk
An independent music label offering the very best in cutting-edge Electronica, Acoustic, Ambient, Down-Tempo and Chill. We are specifically for tracks for that we can buy out all rights to (records and publishing rights).
5. SITES WHERE YOU CAN UPLOAD YOUR BAND'S MP3s
OR VIDEOS
iJamr
6297 Ball Rd. Cypress, CA 90630
Daniel Nicolas
daniel@rocksnrolls.com
www.iJamr.com
A site where musicians, singers and comedians upload their music and acts in order to reach huge numbers of potential customers via iJamr grids displayed on millions of website homepages.
Jamzilla
PO Box 1451, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Mario
Mario@jamzilla.com
www.jamzilla.com
We are an MP3 download store for independent music. We take CDs from artists interested in selling their music online and convert them to MP3s. We then give those artists a place on our site and a link back to theirs so they can direct people who are interested, where to find their music.
MySongStore.com
Larry Heller
larry@mysongstore.com
www.mysongstore.com
Ever wanted to sell downloads of your music, but didn't know how? We have the solution for you, MySongStore.com - the Fair Trade Download Service. Now, you can sell your music right from your homepage.
Sonic Whiplash
2432 N. 2nd St., 2nd Fl. Harrisburg, PA 17110
Matt Hresko info@sonicwhiplash.com
www.sonicwhiplash.com
Helps independent bands/artists increase sales and exposure for their music through digital music marketing. We accept submissions in all styles of music.
BONXO
150 Delmar Rd. Rochester, NY 14616
PH: 585-314-2826 FX: 585-458-9611
Dan Regna dan@bonxo.com
www.bonxo.com
An alternative avenue for independent artists to get their music heard. Our goal is to create a sub-culture of music that is not tainted by the giant corporate spinning wheel.
IndiependenceMusic.net
Jacqueline
Jacqueline@IndiependenceMusic.net
www.IndiependenceMusic.net
Free site to find, hear, sell or buy indie music of all genres.
JamLoad
PO Box 2826, Hollywood, CA 90078
Ruvin Spivak
info@jamload.com
www.JamLoad.com
Our goal is to unite musicians, music producers, managers, attorneys, music supervisors, record labels, publishers, and any other profession that creates or uses music FOR ANY PURPOSE. JamLoad makes high quality music available, talented artists accessible, and industry professionals easy to reach. By providing these services, JamLoad sets the industry standard for deal-making in the music business.
6. HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR YOUR BAND
WikiMusicGuide - The Free Music Guide Team
Anna Chua
press@wikiwebguide.com
www.wikimusicguide.com
We are inviting you to come and join our site that aims to become a comprehensive music-resource in the net. WMG is a wiki-based site wherein the contents are contributed and collaborated by the music lovers which include fans and artists themselves. We are also featuring new and upcoming artists, independent artists and bands every week. It would be a great appreciation on our end if you could find time to drop by our website and see how we can help the independent artist community. We are on the same ground and we believe that it can bring no harm if we both work hand in hand to deliver the best and only the best to the music fans.
You can send us your reply at your most convenient time. We'll be very glad to have you included on our ever growing number of pages. We are also die hard music fans and this is our craft.
Concerts In Your Home
Fran Snyder
fran@fransnyder.com
www.concertsinyourhome.com
Our goal is to promote and help create meaningful concert experiences for music audiences and deserving artists. Why? Because it is increasingly challenging for touring performers to draw audiences to clubs, and more difficult still to connect with these audiences in a meaningful way. For acoustic performers especially, today's venues offer too many distractions (televisions, pool tables, loud conversations, etc), and are far too reliant on alcohol sales and a "Top 40" atmosphere. How? By promoting the concept of house concerts to artists and music lovers across the U.S. and beyond. Artist fees will be used to fund a professional publicity campaign to the national media.
Le Grand Fromage
PO Box L, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Michael Messina
thebigcheeseac@msn.com
www.myspace.com/thebigcheeseac
Atlantic City venue trying to build the local scene. If you would like to book your band at the club, send us an e-mail.
Mixed Mind Studios
info@mixedmind.com
artists.mixedmind.com
Artist community for Ambient~Gothic~New-Age~Techno~Trance.
FanBridge
PH: 917-679-6496
Spencer Richardson spencer@fanbridge.com
www.fanbridge.com
An online tool that enables bands to build/manage their fan email lists as well as create/send customized and targeted email campaigns.
Vontoo
7602 E. 88th Pl., Indianapolis, IN 46256
PH: 877-768-8183
Andrew Innes vontoosales@gmail.com
www.vontoo.com
A permission based voice messaging system that can send messages direct from bands to fans.
House 38 Productions
225 Adams Ave. Williamstown, NJ 08094
PH: 856-629-6055
Christopher Willis Deepelmdesciple@yahoo.com
http://www.myspace.com/sparktherevolution
Promotional services, crew, web campaigns and compilation media for promoters who book shows in our local area. Also a label strictly for securing distribution deals for local bands.
FanConneXion.com
www.fanconnXion.com
We've compiled an assortment of articles to provide musicians with great information and ideas for getting your music heard and building your fan base.
Mamapalooza
PH: 917-301-5635
Joy Rose
joy@mamapalooza.com
www.mamapalooza.com
Empowers women through cooperative performance and merchandising endeavors.
PRLady
2520 Vestal Pkwy. E., Box 321, Vestal, NY 13850
Desiree
desiree@publicitylady.com
www.publicitylady.com
An innovative website designed to teach the basics of music publicity through both email and phone consultations. The site is specifically geared toward independent musicians who are not ready, or able, to hire a full time national publicist.
Danger Vision - Manhattan Neighborhood Network
PO Box 1615, Morningside Stn. New York, NY 10026-9998
Tommy Danger
info@tommydanger.net
www.tommydanger.net
A Hip Hop video show with urban commentary that has hosted the likes on some of the hottest Underground Hip Hop and Rap artists, clothing designers, actors/actresses, producers, video directors, and DVD magazines.
Music On McLean House Concerts
12 McLean Blvd. Perth, ON K7H 2Z3
PH: 613-267-7902
Steve & Sue Tennant
tennants@sympatico.ca
www.perthhouseconcerts.com
Hosts house concerts for artists and bands that are located from, or are touring the Perth/Ottawa Valley area.
Musician's Cooler Podcast
Jammin Dave Jackson
musicianscooler@gmail.com
www.musicianscooler.com
The Musician's Cooler is an online community that publishes a FREE, MODERATED, spam-free Podcast. This Podcast is like no other on the Internet. It's Moderated by Dave Jackson (Author of the book "Get Your Band Out of the Basement (and keep them out of the asylum) who organizes information sent in by musicians from around the globe.
Songhenge
Gary Hays
songhenge@hobojoes.net
www.hobojoes.net
A comprehensive site for songwriters in Nashville or those wishing to be there. Links, advice, forum and much more.
CDstands.com
30 Compton Way, Hamilton Sq. NJ 08690
PH: 609-689-1711
Scott Clark
info@cdreview.com
www.cdstands.com
We manufacture our own line of CD boxes for artists to sell their music at shows or in stores.
Pick Guy
PO Box 70, Westfield, IN 46074
PH: 317-698-5141
Marty Camire
pickguy@verizon.net
www.PickGuy.com
Offers custom printed guitar picks and personalized guitar straps. We provide quality products at affordable prices.
Superscope Technologies
1508 Batavia Ave. Geneva, IL 60134
PH: 630-232-8900
www.superscope.net
Portable dual drive CD recorder for songwriting. Record yourself directly to CD. Play along to CD accompaniment and change key, change tempo, reduce vocals and set A-B repeat loops.
Cari Cole Voice Studios
401 E. 34th St. #N91K, New York, NY 10016-4951
PH: 212-532-0828
Cari Cole
cariacole@aol.com
www.vocalmag.com
Specializes in private vocal technique, vocal problems, keeping singers healthy on tour and contemporary styling. Our studio has one of the very finest methodologies available for building, toning, strengthening and repairing voices. Get your voice in the best shape of your career!
7. Seven Ways to Get More Fans and Sell More Music via the Internet
by Julie Blake, host of Music Business Radio's "Online Marketing Minute".
© 2007 All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission.
Are you getting the results that you want with your website?
The internet is transforming the music industry, which is great news for independent artists. It is a platform that can help you to build a worldwide fan base and at the same time, provide a good living. A good website has become a critical element of a successful music career.
If you currently have a website and are not getting the results that you want (not enough sales and fan club sign-ups), then it may be a good idea to try something different. After all, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Below I have listed a few strategies to help you get a new perspective and help make your music dreams happen!
1. Make It All About the Fans!
Is the "Gimme Monster" scaring your fans away? If the focus of your website is on what you want your fans to "give you" then chances are you are missing out on many potential new fans.
The "Gimme Monster" is a greedy little monster that bites Joshua (my 5-year-old son) when we walk into a Wal-Mart. The Gimme Monster's bite is very powerful and can instantly transform my polite happy child into Veruca ("but I want it now Daddy!") from Willy Wonka.
When people visit a website, the only thing they really care about is 'what's in it for them?' I know this sounds very harsh, but that's how it is. The successful music websites are ALL ABOUT THE FANS!
But what do fans really want? Usually people buy music and become fans because of how the music makes them feel. Therefore, try to make your visitors feel like they have discovered something unique or even "underground" that they can relate to.
A great "Gimme Monster" example is asking visitors to buy your CD on your home page. It's like saying to someone you just met "hi, nice to meet you, want to go back to my place?" Visitors want to explore your website and discover your music. It's much more inviting to feature your CD on the home page with a link (to your order page) that says "On Sale Now".
When it comes to making the sale, wording is also important. Would you rather "Buy the CD" or "Own this CD"? Simply changing the perspective immediately gets visitors envisioning themselves "owning" the CD as opposed to just another person "selling" something to them.
If you are considering charging for your fan club, make sure that the benefits are clearly spelled out. Some artists allow fans to preview the fan club before they join. You could even post a short video to invite people to join your fan club. You could personally tell them about all the benefits.
Take a long hard look at your website and ask yourself "What's in it for them?" "Would someone want to buy my music and give me their personal info and become my fan?" Make the necessary changes. You want to make sure that your website gives your visitors compelling reasons to become fans and purchase your music!
2. Create a Power One-Liner
When someone goes to your website you only have a few seconds to grab their attention. Don't leave them guessing or send them searching. Let them know right away why they should stick around and get to know you.
Come up with an attention grabbing "power one-liner" that identifies the benefits of your music or services, describes your music or and (at the very least) creates some curiosity. This is a simple concept, but not an easy task!
Do a little research with the help of your fans and trusted friends. Find out how your music makes people feel? Why have people become fans? Why did people buy your music? It's also a good idea to find someone that can give you an honest "outsider's" opinion of your music.
Based on the data you've collected from these helpers, get creative and write a sentence that reflects what you do, or describes your music.
Indie artist, Annelise LeCheminant (www.Annelise.us) describes her music as "Alternative Groove-Rock with a little flavor from the salt shaker of a European café". The album is as eclectic as a roadside antique store and as inventive as next year's runway." This description immediately peaks your interest and pulls you in to find out more.
Don't be afraid to name your musical influences. It's a great way for people to instantly connect with your music. Use your imagination. What would it sound like if Green Day hooked up with Jimmy Buffett and went snowboarding?
I suggest that you don't have your music playing when someone visits your website. I think it's a better idea to let your fans discover your music at "their" convenience? For example, someone at work may open your website and have your music start blasting, just as their boss walks by.
If you are a music business, immediately tell visitors what you do and spell out the benefits of your service. For example, at www.MusicBusinessRadio.com the first thing you read is "Music Business Radio is a syndicated, weekly, one-hour specialty program spotlighting the inner workings of the music business." It makes it pretty clear what I do.
Country Artist, Dierks Bentley (www.dierks.com) does not ask you to "Join the Fan Club" he simply states the benefit by saying "Stay Connected".
You can also let your fans or clients list the benefits through testimonials. Remember, when posting testimonials, make sure to get permission to post their name, city, state and the band/service they're involved with. If possible, include their photo.
3. Make Them an Offer They Can't Refuse!
The secret to increasing your sales is by adding more value to what you already offer. Many times what your fans value the most costs you nothing but some creativity. Keep in mind that fans love to have the "inside scoop". This can include exclusive photos, interviews, video ... anything "behind the scenes".
You can also boost your sales, fan club sign-ups and attendance at gigs by bundling your products or adding in a bonus. Below are a few ideas on how to increase value and create a sense of urgency. Make sure to promote it on your website, in your newsletter, on MySpace and anywhere your fans hang out online and off.
· Create a sense of URGENCY. Give away a FREE bumper sticker or a signed photo to the first 50 fans that show up at a gig or respond to your email and buy a CD!
· Offer exclusive discounts for fan club members such as a 10% discount on CDs and merchandise
· Give away something FREE such as a live version of a song that they can only get by purchasing music, merchandise, memberships or even just for joining your fan club. You can also give your fans "recognition" on your website or by giving them a spot in your "top 8 friends" on your MySpace page. Get creative!
· Package your CD with a T-shirt and give a small discount. This could also be used for holidays to encourage your fans to give your music as a gift. It's much easier to sell to current customers that trust you than to someone who does not know you.
4. Brand Your Fans!
Jimmy Buffett is the Big Kahuna of fan branding. His gives his fans (AKA "Parrot Heads") a "License to Chill". All of his fans share the same dream of escaping from reality and living in paradise. He is also on a mission to leave the world a better place …and have a blast doing it!
"Parrot Headom" has spread worldwide, and yes, there actually is an international organization of Parrot Head clubs called "Parrot Heads in Paradise" (www.phip.com). They have created a non-profit organization called Parrot Heads In Need "PHIN". Can you believe that in 2005 PHIN generated over $2.7 million and 663,543 volunteer hours to help charitable organizations around the world?
It's astonishing what has happened just because Jimmy pursued his passion and music dreams, and well, wrote Margaritaville!
The Muzik Mafia (www.MuzikMafia.com) is not looking for fans …they want "soldiers" to join their revolution of "Muzik Without Prejudice". Or, you can march in Big & Rich's "Freak Parade" (www.FreakParade.com).
Both of these websites are totally benefit driven and make their fans feel like they are part of something exciting!
There are plenty of other great examples. For instance, what are the chances that the "Dead Heads" will ever die? You can always join Green Day's "Idiot Club" (www.GreenDay.com). They make it look totally cool to be an idiot.
Think about how can you make your fans feel like they are part of an exclusive club?
5. Go Where No Band Has Gone Before
Look beyond your music to an area of common interests with the idea of possibly partnering with businesses or sponsors that could benefit from your music. The key here is to know who your music appeals to.
If you or members of your band are into surfing (or whatever) you could create a blog or write an article about how surfing inspired your music (or a specific song). Once the article is written, connect into the surfer communities online, remembering to always provide a link to your website. For example, an artist like Avril Lavigne could easily get a writeup in various skate magazines because of her song Sk8ter Boi. It would be very helpful if you have a fan that can introduce you to the community and talk up your music for you.
Look for non-music related print and online magazines or even association newsletters whose readership has a connection with your music or common interests. Before you submit an article or music review, do your homework and make sure your ideas are a good fit for their publication.
Are there any events in your real world community that could benefit from your music? Volunteering your services for a good cause can be instrumental in getting your music out in a positive way while opening new doors.
Sell merch! A killer T-shirt can result in big profits! A clever bumper sticker that makes em' laugh or curious can give you a lot of exposure as well. Offer trendy promotional items like a glow-in-the-dark necklace with your logo on it, or custom temporary tattoos with your band's name.
The key is to make sure that your T-shirt or promotional items make your fans look cool.
Indie Artist, Jana Stanfield (www.JanaStanfield.com) packages her music with inspirational speaking called "keynote concerts" and has sold over a million CDs. Jana's bumper stickers "I'm Not Lost …I'm Exploring" have been spotted all around the country.
6. Make the Most of MySpace
MySpace is all about CONNECTING and building relationships …and it's FREE! It's a cutting edge tool to help you make new connections and drive more traffic to your website. Not only can you reach new fans, you can also hook-up with other bands and music professionals to generate more gigs.
Like anything worthwhile, it takes time, attention and consistent effort to develop a following of loyal fans. Here are some tips on how to target "ideal friends" get new gigs, increase attendance at your shows and hopefully sell more music using MySpace.
· Target your audience! If everybody's your market, then nobody's your market. Take the time to research which "friends" have a common interest with your music. If people tell you your music sounds like Pearl Jam, then do a search for people on MySpace that like Pearl Jam and invite them to be your friend.
· Go for quality friends and not quantity. It is far better to have 400 friends that you have a relationship with and are into your music than 4000 friends that have not even listened to your music.
· Make it personal. If you are reaching out to new friends, don't just send a generic email (AKA spam). Personalize it. Let them know how you found them. Introduce yourself and your music, and invite them to take a listen.
· Talk back! You'll be amazed at how loyal your fans will be if you simply leave a personalized comment. The great thing about posting comments is that all their friends read it and may check you out as well. Note: DO NOT respond with the worn out "thanks for the add" comment!
· Create your own buzz by posting a bulletin of an upcoming gig, CD release, reviews or even a contest. Offer special deals on your CD and merchandise to MySpace fans exclusively.
· When you post a bulletin or send a newsletter, ask your fans to keep an eye out for possible gigs. You never know who your fans know.
· Keep your MySpace page clean, easy to navigate with a focus on a killer photo! MySpace is slow to begin with, so if you have a lot of flash and big busy graphics, people will lose interest and leave before your page loads.
· If you want to be taken professionally and are serious about your music career, do not rely solely upon a MySpace page. Many venues and music professionals that hire bands will not take you seriously without a real website.
· Connect with other bands similar to yours and see if it's a good fit to cross promote. Other bands can be excellent friends to have. If you are trying to break into a new area be sure to connect with bands in that location.
7. Stay Connected
Building a loyal fan base takes a lot more than great music. Successful bands focus on building relationships with their fans. It's all about writing music that people feel connected to ...and then staying connected to your fans.
There are two types of bands. Those that want be mega superstars, worshipped by their fans, and then there are the professional artists that pursue their music because it's their passion. I bet you can guess which type of band attracts the most fans?
The secret to connecting with your fans is by appreciating every fan and staying down here on the planet Earth with them. (If you are above them, that puts them below you ...disconnected.) So dust off your database and put it to good use promoting the following ideas that will make your fans feel like they are truly "in your club"...
· Promote a FREE conference call via your website and in your newsletter. You could play an unreleased song and chat with fans. You can host a FREE call at www.freeconferencecall.com, record it, and then post the MP3 on your site for fans that missed it. It's a very cool way to connect!
· Host a chat session and talk to fans live via your message board.
· Broadcast a podcast of something interesting like a live performance, songwriting session or some backstage action!
· Add a Q&A page to your website where you answer your fan's questions. Keep it updated!
· Give your fans a behind-the-scenes view of a recording session or gig by posting a video on your website. Fans love insider info! Low budget is fine. YouTube (www.YouTube.com) is very popular at the moment.
Don't be discouraged that everyone you meet will not be interested in your music. It's always a matter of personal taste (like a nose ring). Spend your energy finding a niche of people that love your music and focus on "those" people. Follow your passion, make great music and the fans and money will follow you!
Magic happens when fans feel important, appreciated and part of your musical journey!
Julie Blake is President of www.MusicBizWebsitePro.com, the Ultimate Do It Yourself Website Builder where you can a get a website with major label features on an artist's budget. Julie offers a free consultation to help you create a website that gets results! Julie also hosts the "Online Marketing Minute" on Music Business Radio. You can get a FREE subscription to Julie's monthly newsletter at www.IWantMoreFans.com featuring online marketing strategies for the music industry with a splash of inspiration to keep you motivated.
http://www.MusicBizWebsitePro.com
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