8 of 19

Write now Article Tools

Times have changed. Perhaps it's not what Bob Dylan envisioned when he sang "The Times They Are A Changing" but Dylan never hung a flyer for one of his own shows or started a mailing list. He didn't have to. In the early 1960's other people did what the unknown, unsigned artist or band must do today. Bob Dylan, while extremely ambitious and talented as a neo-folkie in the Village circa 1961, was always an artist first and left the business to others-the club owners, journalists and talent scouts for record companies (sometimes known as A&R people today).

The truth for the modern artist is that, as far as the business side of things goes, you must fake it to make it. If the unknown 1961 version of Bob Dylan were to show up in any club today, with any band he might assemble, he might make a good impression on whatever local music scene he happened to stumble upon, but it wouldn't go far beyond local stardom without some business sense.

So, let's talk about what it takes to make it, beyond the local-yokel, mother-in-law scene, circa 21st century.

First off: Write good songs, play good music.

Now, with that little peccadillo out of the way, what else?

Building a fan base means that you involve yourself with your fans and ensure they will come back whenever you play in their town again. If they liked you the first time around chances are they will come back again and bring a couple of friends. Welcome to marketing 101: it's called word-of-mouth. Stay in touch with those initial fans and they will bring others to your doorstep. Mailing lists, flyers, social-networking-all the things Dylan never had to do-you have to do them now.
After the gig stand at the door or at the merch table and thank everyone for coming out. Make yourself visible. If they see you standing there and they enjoyed your show they will offer to buy you a drink. Tell them the venue is buying you drinks (even if they aren't) and persuade them to sign the mailing list or buy a CD instead.

"Make yourself visible" also means the internet too. Keep your web presence current. There are umpteen-thousand music sites out there now. Find your market and stay on top of it. Send out monthly e-mail updates and newsletters even if you aren't touring.
There is nothing worse for a new fan than going to a your website only to realize you haven't updated it since Karl Rove resigned.

Build good relationships with booking agents and club owners. Don't think you are pestering them when you call. They do this for a living.

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Musicians: The importance of building a fan base?
We want to hear your view. Write now!