by Cari Cole
I’ll admit – that’s a big title. But it’s actually the smallest details that make it happen.
For the past 4 years in my online programs I’ve been teaching artists about how to brand and market but with authenticity and integrity – not just marketing tricks. Because in music – marketing tricks look cheap – and shoddy. And over here at CCVM (Cari Cole Voice + Music) we know that when an artist gets their branding and message right before they market they’re going to bring home the tofu-bacon ;).
Those pieces are – well – everything.
And when ya don’t have a big budget, like the big guns, don’t let that deter you – nope, not one bit. You just have to be patient, plan it out, get creative and be willing to redo until you get it just right. It make take a little more time and cost a little more than you budgeted – but is it ever worth it when you start getting followers in droves!
Call me old fashioned, but I don’t believe in buying followers – I believe in real people and real tactics that are authentic and that work! And the artists I’m working with are proving it. Slow but sure wins the race.
Here are my top 3 tips for how to master this marketing stuff without selling out – and it doesn’t cost a thing to know and plan for:
1. Branding Speaks Volumes Before They Even Hear Your Music
We are a visual world. If your image and branding are not compelling, potential fans won’t even click on your music. And – if you are not clear on exactly who you are (and who you are not), we won’t be either. Result = confusion = instantly click away. In marketing language we say “a confused customer never buys.” I add to that “a confused brand, or an under-developed brand, never sells.”
Smart, current and compelling branding is actually the key to attracting fans and followers.
Want to know more about the art and science of smart branding? Save this date: July 29th, 2014 8 pm EST.
See below for more information.
2. Don’t Release Your Music Without a Message to Engage Fans With
Don’t put out your music or release your brand into the marketplace without a message. That means a sincere, clearly defined and compelling message that speaks to people and engages them. Remember, it’s about them not you. Master this and you will master your career.
A clear message that engages potential fans and followers is actually the key to making money making music.
3. Be Real.
Don’t you hate when people are phony? Me too! So why should you be when it comes to your music? You might not realize it, but you might be thinking that you have to “sell out” or do stuff you don’t want to do (like market unauthentically or have a freakin’ hard squeeze page just ‘cause some marketer tells you it gets proven results). Music marketing needs kid gloves and can’t be treated like regular ol’ marketing. Moral of the story – only do things that feel right to you.
That said you do need to know the scope of what’s happening in the world of marketing. Click here for the best music marketing program (okay, we’re biased!) — but it’s chock full of current, simple, effective strategies from a branding and marketing perspective. Just what the doctor ordered. Click here for full details.
Want more good stuff? This article is just a precursor to some upcoming free training + program we have coming up that you’re not going to want to miss. Always fresh new content from CCVM – check it out:
1. SAVE THE DATE for our upcoming Teleclass: The Smart + Resourceful Musician: How to Brand and Market Your Music to the World With Authenticity + Integrity (watch for an email in your inbox)
July 29th at 8 pm EST
2. Want even more right now? There’s a system to marketing your music smarter and more efficiently! Click here to check out a way that indie artists are gaining fans and followers with this Blueprint.