Tips that will let you or your band hit the ground running. There's a lot of competition out there. Here's how to plan ahead and do it right, from the very beginning:

*Don't take yourself too seriously*
Be humble. Make a few harmless jokes about yourself or your band (as long as they aren't too revealing or disturbing). Be grateful to any and every one who gives you a chance. And kiss the feet of everyone who is cool enough to give you two. Always introduce your band on stage at live concerts. Finally, sing cover songs to pay tribute to the artists who have influenced you. Fans love to be able to sing along.

*Be hesitant to label your musical genre*
Right from the start, with every minor or major promotional effort, it is wisest to remain open to many genres or styles when classifying your music. Let it be a debate among your listeners, or rather, let each reviewer or outlet playing your songs to decide on its own how to categorize you. If you isolate your band into one specific genre, like, for instance, emo punk rock, or metal core, you risk the chance of alienating a lot of fans. If you niche yourselves from the get go, your potential listeners very well may judge you before they even hear you. If you are said to play music associated with a particular style, and they think it's uncool to listen to that style, you guessed it, you will be automatically rendered uncool by association, regardless of whether or not they find your music catchy or your band attractive. Eventually, of course, you won't be able to help but fit into some category, but take it slow and allow this labeling to occur naturally.

*Exhibit a personality*
Either that or capitalize on your good looks, if applicable. It would be nice if it was 10% about the quality of your music, but let's face it. Charisma counts. Interesting interviews sell records. And a killer, sexy, and crowd friendly stage performance will undoubtedly keep them coming back for more. Figure out what makes you and your band irresistibly charming and don't be afraid to flaunt it.

*Appreciate your fans*
A supportive fan is an invaluable resource. For each listener you turn on to your music, consider4e yourself that many more personal sales reps. People love to be the ringleaders of their social circles when it comes to discovering new music and if they feel like you genuinely appreciate their efforts to spread the word and sell out your shows, they'll want to live up to their reputation even more. Update your band website blog regularly with fan friendly material, photos of the crowd from live music events, solicit artwork or poetry from the listeners to also post online, and host lots of contest and merch giveaways. Give them the attention they so seek from a soon to be famous rock star (that they themselves discovered!) And they will be loyal to you forever. It's a sure bet.

Learn more about this author, Lori Voth.
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