Being an emerging artist in the music industry can feel like a tough challenge. With mainstream stars dominating the spotlight, it’s easy to feel overlooked. But here’s the truth, every superstar started exactly where you are now.
The key to breaking through lies in building a loyal fanbase, one that grows with you as you climb the ladder. If you’re wondering how to build more following as an emerging artist, it all starts with understanding that your fans are the foundation of your career.
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Every song you release, every show you play, and every hour you spend honing your craft is ultimately about connecting with people who resonate with your music. While releasing great tracks is essential, it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
Building a strong, engaged following opens doors to collaborations, opportunities, and a sustainable career. You’ve likely heard the usual advice, grow your social media, play live shows, and so on. But what does that really mean?
And what if you’ve tried those things and they’re not working? Below, I’ve outlined actionable tips, some of which you may not have considered, that can help you grow your fanbase and stand out in a crowded industry.
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How Can You Build More Following as an Emerging Artist?
1. Know Your Audience Inside Out
Before you start promoting your music, take a step back and ask yourself, Who is this for? Understanding your target audience is crucial. Start by creating a fan persona, think about their age, location, gender, interests, and values. What kind of music do they love? Where do they hang out online?
While it’s important to get specific, don’t stress too much about boxing yourself in. Your music will naturally attract people outside your initial target group. Look at artists who inspire you and study their fanbases. Where are their listeners discovering music?
Are they on a certain music platform, TikTok, or local radio stations? Use these insights to tailor your brand, messaging, and content to resonate with the people most likely to connect with your music.
2. Release Music Consistently
Consistency is key when it comes to growing your fanbase. You can’t expect to build a following if you’re not putting out music regularly. As an emerging artist, it’s normal to feel unsure about your sound or hesitant to share your work. But the only way to grow is to put yourself out there.
Use each release as a learning opportunity. Listen to feedback, refine your craft, and keep improving. Regular releases keep you on your audience’s radar and give them something to look forward to. Remember, the more music you share, the more chances you have to connect with new listeners.
3. Master Your Live Performances
Live shows are one of the most powerful tools for gaining new fans. Think about it, how many times have you discovered a new artist at a concert because their energy was just magnetic? Even if you’re playing to a small crowd, treat every show like it’s a sold-out stadium.
Your passion and stage presence can turn casual listeners into lifelong fans. It’s easy to feel discouraged when the audience is small, but consistency and effort pay off. Over time, your live performances will become a cornerstone of your fanbase growth.
4. Create Engaging Content Regularly
Here’s a reality check, being a musician today isn’t just about making music. It’s also about creating content that keeps your audience engaged. Whether it’s behind-the-scenes videos, social media posts, or email newsletters, your content helps fans feel connected to you.
The good news? You get to choose how you communicate. Love writing? Start an email list. Enjoy making short videos? TikTok might be your go-to platform. The key is to be consistent and authentic. Share your journey, your creative process, and even the challenges you face. Fans love feeling like they’re part of your story.
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5. Show Love to Your Existing Fans
Your current fans are your biggest advocates. Treat them like royalty, and they’ll spread the word about your music. Think of them as your “warm leads”, they already know and love your work, and they’re more likely to introduce you to their friends, family, and social media followers.
Engage with them regularly, whether it’s through social media comments, personalized messages, or exclusive content. The more you invest in your existing fans, the more they’ll invest in you.
6. Create Your Own Playlist
Want to boost your following and reach new listeners? Take control by creating your own playlist. Platforms like SupaFuse make it easy to curate a collection of tracks that complement your sound. Include songs from other independent or local artists, this not only diversifies your playlist but also encourages them to share it with their audiences, expanding your reach.
Don’t forget to add eye-catching cover art and a catchy title to make your playlist stand out. You can even promote it with ads to attract more listeners. By leveraging this, you’re not just growing your fanbase, you’re also building valuable connections within the music community.
7. Talk About Your Music A Lot
Here’s a secret, your followers want to know you, not just your music. While polished music videos and professional photos are great, they don’t tell the whole story. Don’t be shy about sharing your journey, your inspirations, and what makes your music unique.
Talk about your music to everyone, friends, family, fellow artists, and industry professionals. The more comfortable you are discussing your work, the more organic your fan growth will be. Look for networking opportunities at concerts, conferences, or events related to your genre. Face-to-face interactions can be a game-changer for building connections.
Conclusion
Learning how to build more following as an emerging artist takes time, effort, and a willingness to experiment. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but by focusing on your audience, staying consistent, and engaging authentically, you’ll start to see your fanbase grow.
Remember, every superstar was once in your shoes. With the right strategies and a lot of passion, you can turn your music into a movement.
