By now, everybody knows how essential it’s to promote your music online.
The new normal is spending a considerable chunk of time writing emails, posting on social media or sharing links to your new launch.
However, there is a whole world of promotion out there that’s simple to forget if you are too focused on your online channels: the real world.
Offline music promotion is still one of the most vital parts of music promotion.
Here are 6 reasons why offline music promotion always matters.
1. Followers aren’t just followers, they’re people.
All of the interactions on your streaming dashboard get reduced to statistics, however these streams are not just vital numbers to follow… They are real people listening to your music.
Every opportunity you get to meet somebody who appreciates your work in person is a golden chance.
Sometimes all it takes to turn somebody from a casual listener into a serious fan is a five-minute chat.
So take the time to hang out after the show and say hello to everybody. Thank them for being there—it is the least you could do!
The value of a real-life encounter does not have to stop offline either—Reply to comments, begin discussions and interact with your followers the same method you would at a show.
Keep in mind: A real-life interaction is always the most effective. However, the spirit of it works online too (particularly for all these out-of-town followers).
2. Word-of-mouth is real
You can purchase all of the targeted social adverts in the world and still not get the same return as a glowing review from a great friend.
People still hold the opinions of others in their network higher than any marketing campaign.
Plus, people tell other people about the music they like—your music should give them something to talk about.
The more you could get your music involved in social circles in real life, the quicker it’ll spread by word-of-mouth.
So pay attention to your community and attempt to make the connections. Get involved and be a part of something larger than just your own project.
3. Your presence is just as vital as your artwork
You might have triumphantly completed your masterpiece album. However, the vast majority of people will not feel the same deep personal connection you forged along with your tracks while making them.
For the most part, you will have to depend on your real-world presence to communicate who you’re and where your music is coming from.
Offline connections give people a window into your mindset. It makes it simpler for them see your music in context.
Your tracks are a shorthand for who you’re to your listeners, so put your greatest foot forward whenever you are related with your music in public. This means shows, events, festivals, radio spot or even local parties.
You are the ambassador of your sound. Make every moment count, think about the way you present your music in a real life setting and consider methods to make your music standout through you as a person first.
4. Nothing can replace live music
Meaningful music experiences could totally occur online, however, it’s far more likely that an amazing dance party or incredible live set will leave a huger impression.
Sometimes people just need to see it live to get the message.
The genius of your greatest tracks could still get flattened in algorithmically generated playlists or lost in the noise of online content.
However, at an event, it is live—and loud.
It’s where you actually have your listeners’ attention. All of the layers and the impact of your music are on display.
So make planning and playing events a priority!
5. You should meet people to level up
We should talk about networking. Everyone knows how vital it’s.
However, you should stop thinking of it as a function of a social media app and begin seeing it for what it truly is: just getting to know people.
You want the right people round you to help you achieve your next purpose in music. Meet them as peers—not as gatekeepers you are attempting to extract something from.
And that goes for everybody, not just industry pros. The golden rule of live music is you never know who’s in the audience.
Whether you are playing to a sold-out venue or the three people glued to slot machines in the back, you still need to deliver the most effective performance you possibly could.
It’s a part of being skilled as an artist. Nobody likes a pretentious complainer who does not put in the effort because the show is not full—it’s disrespectful!
6. You get to build your mailing list
This one’s more of an online/offline hybrid but bear with me.
Email is one of the most vital channels for reaching your audience. A fan’s inbox is a direct line to their attention.
However, acquiring a collection of email addresses for your mailing list is tough. You could prompt visitors to your website to subscribe or push your newsletter on social media.
However, by far the simplest method is to just ask people in person. Keep in mind to plug your mailing list along with your merch during shows or just in conversation if it’s related.
An email address could seem like pretty confidential info these days. Followers might be more likely to offer them out in person than a submit form online.
Ensure that you’re benefiting from the chance!
Walk the Offline
Lots of daily life is online, and there is an enormous amount you could do there for your music promotion. However, you cannot forget about the offline work, even in 2019.
Whether it’s through networking or live performance, try adding these offline music promotion habits to your practice.
You will be surprised how much the real world could do for you and your music…