Posted on May 24, 2023

The Ultimate Guide For Marketing New Music 2023 Part 3: Strategic Planning

By Shawn Spence

Introduction

Welcome to the third part of our comprehensive guide on marketing new music! In this installment, we will dive into the crucial aspect of strategic planning. As an aspiring musician or a seasoned artist looking to expand your reach, having a well-thought-out marketing strategy is paramount to your success. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to create an effective strategic plan that will elevate your music career to new heights.

The Ultimate Guide For Marketing New Music Part 3: Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is the cornerstone of any successful marketing campaign. It involves setting clear goals, identifying target audiences, and developing a roadmap to achieve desired outcomes. In the context of music marketing, strategic planning entails outlining your brand identity, defining your unique selling points, and formulating strategies to promote your music to the right audience at the right time. Let’s explore the key steps involved in creating a robust strategic plan for marketing your new music.

Step 1: Define Your Objectives

The first step in strategic planning for your music marketing campaign is to define your objectives. This crucial step sets the foundation for your entire strategy. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to achieve with your music. Are you aiming for increased streaming numbers, a larger fan base, or securing live performance opportunities? Clearly defining your goals will provide a sense of direction and focus as you proceed with your strategic planning.

When setting your objectives, it’s important to make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Instead of a vague goal like “I want more fans,” consider a specific objective such as “I want to increase my monthly Spotify listeners by 20% within the next six months.” This way, you have a clear target to work towards and can track your progress along the way.

Defining your objectives also involves understanding your priorities. You may have multiple goals, but it’s crucial to identify the most important ones that align with your long-term vision. For example, if your primary objective is to build a dedicated fan base, you may prioritize strategies that focus on fan engagement, community-building, and social media presence.

By establishing clear objectives, you give yourself something concrete to strive for and measure your success against. It will guide your decision-making process throughout your music marketing campaign and help you stay on track. Keep in mind that objectives can evolve over time, so it’s essential to regularly evaluate and adjust them as needed.

Want information about how big labels conduct strategic planning for their music campaigns ? Read here!

Step 2: Identify Your Target Audience

To effectively market your music, you need to identify and understand your target audience. Who are the people most likely to appreciate and connect with your music? Conduct thorough research to uncover demographic information, musical preferences, and online behaviors of your potential listeners. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your marketing efforts to resonate with your target audience.

Start by analyzing your existing fan base and identifying common characteristics among your most engaged and supportive fans. Look for patterns in demographics such as age, gender, location, and cultural background. Additionally, explore their musical preferences and the genres they enjoy. This information will help you craft marketing messages and content that specifically appeal to this audience.

Utilize online tools and platforms to gather data about your audience. Social media insights, website analytics, and streaming platforms provide valuable information about your listeners’ behaviors, engagement levels, and geographical distribution. This data will help you make informed decisions about the channels and strategies you should prioritize in your marketing efforts.

Furthermore, consider conducting surveys or engaging in direct conversations with your fans. This can provide valuable qualitative insights into their motivations, interests, and what they value most about your music. Use this information to refine your understanding of your target audience and adjust your marketing tactics accordingly.

Remember that your target audience might evolve over time. Stay proactive and regularly revisit your research to ensure your strategies stay aligned with the changing needs and preferences of your audience. The better you understand your target audience, the more effectively you can connect with them and build a loyal fan base.

Step 3: Craft Your Brand Identity

In the highly competitive music industry, having a strong brand identity is essential for standing out from the crowd. Take the time to define and craft your unique brand image, which encompasses your artist persona, visual aesthetics, and overall style. A well-developed brand identity creates a cohesive and memorable experience for your audience, making it easier for them to connect with you and differentiate you from other musicians.

Start by understanding your own values, vision, and musical identity. Consider what sets you apart from other artists and how you want to be perceived by your audience. This self-reflection will help you identify key elements that will form the foundation of your brand identity.

Develop a cohesive visual identity that aligns with your music and resonates with your target audience. This includes your logo, color palette, typography, and overall design aesthetic. Consistency in your visual branding across various platforms and channels helps create recognition and reinforces your brand image in the minds of your audience.

In addition to visuals, your brand identity should extend to your artist persona and the way you communicate with your audience. Define the tone and voice that best represents you and your music. Whether it’s friendly and approachable or edgy and rebellious, ensure that your communication style aligns with your brand identity.

Consistency is key when it comes to brand identity. Apply your brand elements consistently across all your marketing materials, including your website, social media profiles, album artwork, merchandise, and press releases. This consistent presentation will help create a strong and memorable impression on your audience.

Crafting a unique and authentic brand identity takes time and effort, but it’s a crucial investment in your long-term success as a musician. By establishing a strong brand presence, you make it easier for your target audience to identify and connect with you, building trust and loyalty in the process.

For more information about how to optimize brand identity take a look at our blog !

Step 4: Develop a Content Strategy

In today’s digital landscape, content is king. Developing a comprehensive content strategy is essential for capturing and maintaining your audience’s attention. By determining the types of content that align with your brand and resonate with your target audience, you can create a consistent and engaging experience that keeps your fans coming back for more.

Begin by identifying the types of content that best showcase your music and align with your brand identity. This can include music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, live performances, interviews, lyric videos, and creative visual content. Consider the preferences of your target audience and what they would find most appealing and engaging.

Create a content calendar to plan and organize your content release schedule. This will ensure a consistent flow of material and help you stay organized in your marketing efforts. The calendar should include important dates such as album releases, single drops, music video premieres, and upcoming shows or tours. Strategically plan your content releases to build anticipation and maintain a steady presence in the minds of your fans.

When developing your content, aim for high-quality and professional production. Invest in the necessary resources to ensure that your visuals, audio, and overall presentation are of the highest standard. Remember that your content reflects your brand, so it’s important to deliver a polished and captivating experience to your audience.

Engage with your fans through your content by encouraging interaction and conversation. Respond to comments and messages, ask for feedback, and involve your audience in your creative process. This fosters a sense of community and connection, making your fans feel valued and involved in your journey as an artist.

Don’t limit yourself to just one platform. Utilize various channels and mediums to reach a wider audience. Besides social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, consider exploring podcast appearances, collaborations with popular influencers, and guest blogging opportunities. Each platform offers unique opportunities to connect with different segments of your audience.

Step 5: Leverage Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become invaluable tools for musicians to promote their music and connect directly with fans. It’s essential to identify the platforms where your target audience is most active and establish a strong presence there. Here’s how you can leverage social media to maximize your music marketing efforts:

1. Choose the right platforms: Research and identify the social media platforms where your target audience is most likely to engage with music content. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube are popular among music enthusiasts. Focus your efforts on the platforms that align with your audience demographics and preferences.
2. Build a strong profile: Create an attractive and professional profile on each platform you choose. Use high-quality visuals, such as professional photos and album artwork, that reflect your brand identity. Craft a compelling bio that succinctly describes your music and showcases your unique selling points.
3. Engage with your followers: Social media is all about building relationships and engaging with your fans. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions promptly. Show genuine interest in your audience by liking and commenting on their posts. Encourage conversation and create a sense of community around your music.
4. Share updates and behind-the-scenes content: Regularly update your social media profiles with engaging content. Share snippets of new music, behind-the-scenes footage from recording sessions or rehearsals, and sneak peeks of upcoming projects. This not only keeps your fans excited but also gives them a sense of being part of your journey.
5. Use relevant hashtags: Hashtags are powerful tools to expand your reach on social media. Research and use popular and relevant hashtags in your posts to increase discoverability. Hashtags specific to your genre, location, or popular music trends can help you reach a broader audience.
6. Collaborate with influencers: Identify influencers or content creators who align with your music style and target audience. Collaborate with them by featuring your music in their content or creating joint projects. Influencer collaborations can expose your music to new audiences and give you credibility within the industry.

Remember, social media success doesn’t happen overnight. Consistency, authenticity, and genuine interaction are key to building a loyal following and expanding your reach.

Step 6: Collaborate and Network

Collaborating with other musicians, industry professionals, and influencers is a powerful strategy to amplify your reach and introduce your music to new audiences. Networking within the music industry can open doors and create valuable connections that propel your music career forward. Here’s how you can effectively collaborate and network:

1. Seek collaboration opportunities: Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with other musicians, both within and outside your genre. Collaborative projects can take the form of joint tracks, remixes, or even live performances. By joining forces, you can tap into each other’s fan bases and expose your music to a wider audience.
2. Perform at events: Seek opportunities to perform at live events, music festivals, or showcases. Sharing the stage with other talented artists not only expands your exposure but also allows you to connect with industry professionals and potential collaborators.
3. Feature on podcasts and blogs: Reach out to podcast hosts and music bloggers who cover your genre. Offer to be a guest on their shows or contribute guest articles. These platforms provide a dedicated audience interested in music and can help you gain visibility and credibility in the industry.
4. Attend industry events: Actively participate in industry events, conferences, and workshops. These gatherings offer opportunities to connect with industry professionals, record label representatives, and other musicians. Be prepared to network, exchange contact information, and showcase your music and brand to influential individuals.
5. Join online communities: Engage in online communities and forums dedicated to music and
6. musicians. Participate in discussions, share your knowledge, and offer support to fellow artists. Online communities provide a platform for networking, collaboration opportunities, and sharing valuable insights with like-minded individuals.
7. Build relationships: Networking is about building genuine relationships with others in the music industry. Take the time to connect with industry professionals, musicians, producers, and influencers on social media platforms. Engage with their content, offer support, and show interest in their work. Building strong relationships can lead to future collaborations, recommendations, and valuable guidance.
8. Attend music conferences and workshops: Music conferences and workshops provide excellent networking opportunities. Attend industry events where you can meet professionals from record labels, talent agencies, and other sectors of the music industry. Be proactive in introducing yourself, exchanging business cards, and following up with potential contacts after the event.
9. Stay active in online music communities: Join online music platforms, forums, and groups where musicians and industry professionals gather. Contribute valuable insights, share your music, and participate in discussions. Engaging in these communities can help you establish your presence, gain feedback on your work, and connect with potential collaborators.

Remember, networking is not just about what others can do for you, but also what you can offer in return. Be supportive, genuine, and approachable in your interactions. Building a strong network takes time and effort, but it can be incredibly rewarding for your music career.

FAQs About Marketing New Music

1. How can I promote my music on a limited budget?

Promoting your music on a limited budget is challenging but not impossible. Leverage the power of social media platforms, engage with your audience, and share your music in relevant online communities. Collaborate with other artists and explore low-cost marketing strategies such as targeted email campaigns or grassroots promotion.

2. How important is it to have a website as a musicians?

Having a website as a musician is highly important. It serves as your centralized online hub where fans can learn more about you, access your music, and stay updated on your latest releases and performances. A website also provides a professional image and establishes credibility in the industry. Utilize your website to showcase your music, share your story, and provide a platform for fans to engage with you directly.

3. Is it necessary to hire a music marketing agency?

Hiring a music marketing agency can be beneficial, especially if you have limited knowledge or resources in the field. A professional agency can provide expertise, industry connections, and targeted strategies to maximize your music’s exposure. However, if you have the time, dedication, and willingness to learn, you can also tackle music marketing independently by following comprehensive guides like this one.

4. How can I leverage music streaming platforms for promotion?

Music streaming platforms have revolutionized the way we consume music. To leverage these platforms for promotion, focus on optimizing your profiles on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. Utilize playlists, engage with your listeners, and encourage them to follow and share your music. Collaborate with curators and seek placement on popular playlists to expand your reach and gain new fans.

5. What role does email marketing play in music promotion?

Email marketing remains a powerful tool in the music industry. Building an email list allows you to directly communicate with your most dedicated fans. Send regular newsletters with updates on new releases, upcoming shows, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes insights. Personalize your emails to make your subscribers feel valued and create a sense of exclusivity.

6. How can I measure the success of my music marketing efforts?

Measuring the success of your music marketing efforts is essential to refine your strategies and ensure you’re on the right track. Monitor key metrics such as streaming numbers, social media engagement, website traffic, and ticket sales for live performances. Use analytics tools provided by various platforms to gain insights into your audience demographics, geographical reach, and engagement levels.

Conclusion

Strategic planning is a fundamental aspect of effectively marketing new music. By following the steps outlined in this ultimate guide, you can create a robust strategic plan to promote your music to the right audience and achieve your goals. Remember to define your objectives, identify your target audience, craft your brand identity, develop a content strategy, leverage social media, and collaborate with others in the industry. With dedication, perseverance, and a solid strategic plan, you can make significant strides in your music career.

Posted on May 22, 2023

The Ultimate Guide To Influencer Marketing For Musicians for 2023

By Shawn Spence

How does one define the ultimate guide to influencer marketing? To level the playing field in the music business today is more of an architectural development than anything. It is simpler than ever to produce an album or a single in your bedroom, submit it to the internet, and encourage interaction on social media. 

It also enables musicians to use influencer marketing. Not only the internet, but all technology is to blame for this. 

Naturally, the internet allows influencers to advertise music to millions of prospective followers worldwide through their social media platforms.

The disadvantage of the simplicity of recording and sharing music is that everyone will be able to do it. How can you make your song stand out from all the others and be heard in the crowd? 

That is indeed a difficulty, but there are tools available to assist you. For musicians, one such method is Influencer Marketing.

Does it seem interesting to you? So, consider this your formal invitation to join the influencer marketing renaissance. 

All aboard!

If you want to take a look at our previous guide and see how it has evolved click here !

In today’s digital age, musicians have more opportunities than ever to reach a wider audience and connect with their fans. One of the most effective strategies for achieving this is influencer marketing. By partnering with influential individuals in their niche, musicians can amplify their brand, increase their reach, and engage with a targeted audience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key steps and strategies for successfully utilizing influencer marketing in 2023.

1. Introduction to Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing refers to the practice of leveraging the popularity and influence of individuals on social media to promote products or services. For musicians, this means collaborating with influencers who have a substantial following and influence in the music industry or related niches. Influencer marketing offers musicians a unique opportunity to tap into the engaged audience of these influencers and gain exposure to new fans.

2. Identifying the Right Influencers

To get started with influencer marketing, it’s crucial to identify the right influencers who align with your music and target audience. Start by understanding your target audience and the platforms they frequent. Research and find influencers who have a significant presence in these platforms and cater to a similar demographic. Look for influencers who have high engagement rates, as this indicates an active and responsive audience.

Follower Count:

• This metric indicates the number of people who follow the influencer’s social media account(s). A higher follower count generally suggests a larger potential reach for your music.

Reach:

• Reach refers to the estimated number of people who see an influencer’s content. It takes into account factors like the influencer’s follower count, the platforms they use, and the visibility of their posts.

Engagement Rate:

• Engagement rate measures how actively the influencer’s audience interacts with their content. It includes metrics such as likes, comments, shares, and saves. A higher engagement rate typically indicates a more engaged and responsive audience.

3. Building Relationships with Influencers

Once you’ve identified potential influencers, it’s essential to approach them professionally and build strong relationships. Personalize your outreach by mentioning specific aspects you admire about their work. Offer value to the influencer, such as exclusive content, concert tickets, or a chance to collaborate. Building a mutually beneficial partnership will increase the chances of influencers being interested in promoting your music.

4. Crafting an Effective Influencer Marketing Strategy

Before embarking on influencer marketing campaigns, it’s vital to develop a comprehensive strategy. Set clear goals and objectives for your campaigns, such as increasing brand awareness, boosting album sales, or driving traffic to your website. Define your target audience precisely, as this will help you tailor your content and choose the most suitable influencers. Create a content plan that outlines the types of collaborations you want to pursue, whether it’s sponsored posts, product placements, or live performances. Determine your budget for influencer partnerships, considering factors such as the influencer’s reach and engagement, as well as the scale of the campaign.

5. Collaborating with Influencers

When collaborating with influencers, it’s crucial to negotiate terms and agreements that benefit both parties.

• Clearly define the scope of the collaboration, including the number of posts, the content format, and the timeline.
• Provide influencers with creative freedom to showcase your music in a way that resonates with their audience.
  • Incorporate influencers’ content into your marketing campaigns to amplify their reach and engage with their followers.

6. Leveraging Social Media Platforms

To maximize the impact of influencer marketing, choose the right social media platforms for promotion. Consider the demographics and preferences of your target audience. Optimize your social media profiles and content to reflect your brand and appeal to potential fans. Engage with the audience and the followers of the influencers you collaborate with by responding to comments, running contests or giveaways, and actively participating in conversations.

To read more about social media predictions for 2023 check out our new article !

Key Demographics to consider

1. Age: Determine the age range of your target audience. Are you targeting teenagers, young adults, or a specific age group? This information helps you select influencers and platforms that cater to that particular age range.
2. Gender: Understand the gender distribution within your target audience. Depending on the genre and style of your music, you may want to focus on specific genders or ensure that your marketing efforts are inclusive to all genders.
3. Location: Identify the geographic locations where your target audience is concentrated. This information helps you choose influencers who have a strong presence in those regions or consider local marketing strategies specific to those locations.
4. Interests: Explore the interests and hobbies of your target audience. Are they fans of a particular music genre, fashion, lifestyle, or other related topics? This knowledge can help you align your influencer partnerships and content with the interests of your audience.
5. Online Behavior: Consider the preferred social media platforms and online behavior of your target audience. Do they spend more time on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, or other platforms? Understanding their online behavior allows you to focus your influencer marketing efforts on the platforms where your audience is most active.
6. Consumption Habits: Determine how your target audience consumes music and engages with content. Do they stream music on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music? Do they actively search for new music on YouTube or rely on social media recommendations? This information helps you optimize your influencer marketing strategy and choose the appropriate channels to promote your music.

7. Measuring and Analyzing Influencer Marketing Campaigns

To evaluate the effectiveness of your influencer marketing campaigns, track key performance metrics. Monitor the reach and engagement of influencer posts, such as likes, comments, and shares. Evaluate the impact of influencer collaborations on brand awareness and reach, as well as on website traffic and conversions. Analyze conversion rates and sales attributed to influencer marketing efforts to assess the return on investment.

1. Engagement: Evaluate the engagement metrics of influencer posts, including likes, comments, shares, and saves. These metrics show how actively the audience interacted with the content. Higher engagement levels indicate a more involved and responsive audience.
2. Brand Awareness: Assess the impact of influencer collaborations on brand awareness. This can be measured through brand mentions, hashtag usage, or tracking increases in brand searches or social media mentions related to your music.
3. Website Traffic: Monitor the website traffic generated from influencer marketing efforts. Track the number of visitors, session duration, page views, and bounce rate to understand the level of interest and engagement with your music among the influencer’s audience.
4. Conversions: Analyze the conversion metrics associated with your influencer campaigns. This includes tracking the number of leads, downloads, purchases, or any desired actions taken by the audience as a result of the influencer’s promotion.
5. Return on Investment (ROI): Assess the financial impact of influencer marketing by measuring the ROI. Calculate the revenue generated or costs saved through influencer collaborations and compare it to the investment made. This will help you determine the effectiveness and profitability of your influencer marketing campaigns.

8. Avoiding Common Influencer Marketing Pitfalls

While influencer marketing can be highly beneficial, it’s important to be aware of potential pitfalls. Ensure transparency and disclosure by clearly stating sponsored content and partnerships. Be cautious of fake influencers and inflated follower counts, as these can harm your brand’s reputation. Maintain authenticity and credibility by collaborating with influencers who genuinely align with your music and values.

9. Future Trends in Influencer Marketing for Musicians

As technology and social media continue to evolve, it’s crucial to stay updated on emerging trends in influencer marketing. Keep an eye on emerging social media platforms that might provide new opportunities to connect with fans. Consider the growing influence of micro-influencers, who often have highly engaged audiences within specific niches. Embrace the rise of video content and live streaming as powerful tools for connecting with fans. Explore the potential of leveraging virtual and augmented reality experiences to create immersive music-related content.

10. Conclusion

Influencer marketing has become an integral part of the musician’s toolkit in 2023. By leveraging the influence and reach of relevant influencers, musicians can amplify their brand, expand their fanbase, and ultimately achieve their goals. Remember to carefully identify the right influencers, build strong relationships, and craft an effective strategy. Collaborate with influencers authentically, leverage social media platforms, and measure the impact of your campaigns. Stay updated on future trends to remain ahead in the dynamic world of influencer marketing.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How do I find the right influencers for my music?

Finding the right influencers involves understanding your target audience and researching influencers who cater to a similar demographic. Look for influencers with high engagement rates and a genuine connection to the music industry.

2. How can I approach influencers professionally?

When approaching influencers, personalize your outreach and mention specific aspects you admire about their work. Offer value in the collaboration and show genuine interest in building a mutually beneficial partnership.

3. How do I measure the success of influencer marketing campaigns?

Measure the success of your influencer marketing campaigns by tracking key metrics such as reach,engagement, website traffic, and conversions. Monitor the impact on brand awareness and assess the return on investment to determine the effectiveness of your campaigns.

4. What should I look out for to avoid fake influencers?

To avoid fake influencers, pay attention to engagement rates, follower growth patterns, and the quality of their interactions. Look for genuine and consistent engagement with their audience, rather than inflated follower counts.

5. How can I leverage emerging trends in influencer marketing?

Stay informed about emerging social media platforms and trends to identify new opportunities for connecting with fans. Embrace the power of micro-influencers, video content, and live streaming. Explore the potential of virtual and augmented reality to create immersive music experiences.

6. How important is transparency and disclosure in influencer marketing?

Transparency and disclosure are crucial in influencer marketing to maintain trust and credibility with your audience. Clearly state when content is sponsored or in partnership with an influencer to ensure transparency and compliance with advertising regulations.

Posted on May 19, 2023

15 Great Music Marketing Tips for 2023: Boost Your Music Career!

By Barbara Drews

Are you an aspiring musician looking to take your music career to the next level? In today’s digital age, effective music marketing is crucial for success in the highly competitive music industry. To help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of music marketing, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 15 great music marketing tips for 2023. From building your online presence to connecting with your fans, these tips will give you the edge you need to stand out from the crowd and make your mark in the music world.

Introduction

In a world saturated with music, it’s not enough to create great songs. You need to develop a solid music marketing strategy to cut through the noise and reach your target audience. With the right approach, you can build a strong fan base, increase your visibility, and ultimately boost your music career. So, let’s dive into the 15 great music marketing tips for 2023 that will help you achieve your goals.

Tip 1: Develop Your Brand Identity

In a competitive industry like music, having a unique and authentic brand identity is crucial. Your brand should reflect who you are as an artist and what sets you apart from others. It’s essential to define your brand’s values, aesthetics, and storytelling elements that resonate with your target audience. Use social media, website design, album artwork, and promotional materials to showcase your brand identity consistently.

Tip 2: Build an Engaging Website

A well-designed and user-friendly website is the foundation of your online presence. It serves as your central hub, where fans can find your music, learn about your story, and connect with you directly. Make sure your website is mobile-responsive, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. Include an updated biography, discography, upcoming events, and a mailing list sign-up form to capture your visitors’ attention and keep them engaged.

Tip 3: Leverage the Power of Social Media

In the digital age, social media platforms are invaluable tools for music marketing. Create profiles on popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to connect with your fans directly. Post engaging content regularly, including behind-the-scenes footage, live performances, music videos, and updates about upcoming releases. Engage with your followers, respond to comments, and participate in trending conversations to expand your reach.

Tip 4: Collaborate with Influencers and Fellow Artists

Collaborations can be a game-changer in music marketing. Partnering with influencers, fellow artists, or industry professionals can expose your music to new audiences and help you gain credibility. Look for opportunities to collaborate on songs, music videos, live performances, or social media campaigns. By leveraging each other’s fan bases, you can expand your reach and create mutually beneficial relationships within the music community.

Tip 5: Create Compelling Visual Content

In the digital era, visuals play a crucial role in capturing your audience’s attention. Invest in creating high-quality and visually stunning content that complements your music. This includes music videos, lyric videos, album artwork, promotional graphics, and captivating social media visuals. Engage professional photographers, videographers, and graphic designers to ensure your visual content aligns with your brand and leaves a lasting impression.

Tip 6: Engage with Your Fans

Building a strong connection with your fans is essential for sustainable success. Engage with your audience by responding to their comments and messages on social media, thanking them for their support, and making them feel involved in your journey. Organize meet and greets, fan contests, or virtual Q&A sessions to create memorable experiences for your fans. The more you nurture your fan base, the more loyal and dedicated they will become.

Tip 7: Utilize Email Marketing

Email marketing remains a powerful tool for connecting with your audience directly. Collect email addresses from your website visitors and social media followers, and regularly send out newsletters or updates about your latest releases, upcoming shows, and exclusive content. Personalize your emails and provide value to your subscribers by offering discounts, freebies, or behind-the-scenes insights. Remember, building an email list allows you to communicate with your fans on your terms without relying on social media algorithms.

Tip 8: Leverage Streaming Platforms

Streaming platforms have revolutionized the music industry, providing artists with a global platform to reach millions of listeners. Take advantage of platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music by optimizing your profiles, creating playlists, and encouraging fans to follow and save your music. Collaborate with playlist curators and influencers to get your songs featured on popular playlists, increasing your chances of being discovered by new listeners.

Tip 9: Harness the Power of Video Content

Video content has become a driving force in music marketing. In addition to official music videos, consider creating lyric videos, acoustic performances, and behind-the-scenes footage to engage your audience visually. YouTube is a prime platform for sharing video content, so optimize your channel with relevant keywords, eye-catching thumbnails, and engaging titles. Interact with your viewers through comments, likes, and shares to foster a sense of community and encourage further engagement.

Tip 10: Engage in Live Streaming

Live streaming has gained immense popularity, especially in the past couple of years. Take advantage of platforms like Twitch, Facebook Live, or Instagram Live to connect with your fans in real-time. Host live Q&A sessions, intimate acoustic performances, or even virtual concerts to create a unique and interactive experience. Promote your live streams in advance to build anticipation and attract a larger audience.

Tip 11: Collaborate with Micro-Influencers

While collaborating with high-profile influencers can be beneficial, don’t overlook the power of micro-influencers. These individuals may have smaller follower counts but boast highly engaged and dedicated fan bases. Seek out micro-influencers whose content aligns with your brand and music genre. Collaborating with them can result in targeted exposure and authentic connections with potential fans who are more likely to convert into loyal supporters.

Tip 12: Run Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways are excellent tactics to generate excitement, increase engagement, and expand your reach. Encourage fans to participate by offering exclusive merchandise, concert tickets, or personalized experiences as prizes. Leverage social media platforms to host these contests and encourage fans to share and tag their friends, helping to spread the word about your music and increase your online presence.

Tip 13: Engage with Online Communities

Online communities and forums dedicated to music are great places to connect with like-minded individuals and potential fans. Join relevant groups or forums where discussions revolve around your genre or the music industry in general. Share your knowledge, contribute to conversations, and avoid being overly promotional. Establish yourself as a valuable and respected member of the community, and people will naturally be curious to explore your music.

Tip 14: Optimize Your Online Presence for SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for ensuring that your music and brand are discoverable online. Research relevant keywords and incorporate them into your website content, blog posts, social media profiles, and video descriptions. This helps search engines understand what your music is about and increases the likelihood of appearing in relevant search results. Remember to provide valuable and engaging content that keeps visitors on your website or social media profiles for longer periods, as this positively impacts your search rankings.

Tip 15: Network and Collaborate Offline

While digital platforms offer vast opportunities, don’t underestimate the power of face-to-face interactions. Attend music conferences, industry events, and local gigs to connect with fellow musicians, industry professionals, and potential fans. Build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore collaboration opportunities. Remember, personal connections can often lead to exciting opportunities that may not have been possible through online channels alone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I effectively promote my music on a limited budget? To promote your music on a limited budget, focus on utilizing free or low-cost marketing tactics such as social media engagement, email marketing, and collaboration with other artists or influencers. Leverage your existing network and seek out grassroots opportunities for exposure, such as performing at local events or partnering with community organizations.

2. Is it necessary to hire a music marketing agency? Hiring a music marketing agency can be beneficial if you have the budget and require professional expertise to execute a comprehensive marketing strategy. However, many artists have achieved significant success by taking a DIY approach and utilizing online resources, social media platforms, and networking opportunities.

3. How can I stand out in a saturated music market? To stand out in a saturated music market, focus on developing a unique brand identity, creating high-quality and visually appealing content, engaging with your fans authentically, and seeking out collaboration opportunities. Find your niche, showcase your authenticity, and consistently deliver high-quality music and visuals that resonate with your target audience.

4. Should I prioritize quantity or quality when releasing music? While it’s important to consistently release new music to stay relevant, quality should never be compromised. Strive to maintain a balance between quantity and quality by setting realistic release schedules that allow you to create the best possible music without rushing the process. Remember, one outstanding song can have a more significant impact than releasing mediocre tracks frequently.

5. How can I measure the effectiveness of my music marketing efforts? Tracking and analyzing key metrics such as social media engagement, streaming numbers, website traffic, email open rates, and ticket sales can help you gauge the effectiveness of your music marketing efforts. Use analytics tools and platforms provided by social media and streaming services to gain insights into your audience demographics, engagement patterns, and areas where you can improve.

6. How long does it take to see results from music marketing? The timeline for seeing results from music marketing can vary depending on various factors such as your existing fan base, marketing strategies, and the quality of your music. It’s important to remember that building a successful music career takes time, consistency, and perseverance. Stay focused, adapt your strategies based on feedback, and celebrate small milestones along the way.

Conclusion

In the rapidly evolving music industry, effective marketing strategies are essential for musicians aiming to achieve their goals and reach a wider audience. By implementing the 15 great music marketing tips for 2023, including developing your brand identity, utilizing social media, creating engaging visual content, and networking both online and offline, you can take significant steps toward boosting your music career. Remember, success in music requires a combination of talent, dedication, and strategic marketing efforts. So, go out there, make your mark, and share your passion with the world!

Posted on April 6, 2023

Universal Music Group Trims Radio Expenses: Start a Radio Campaign

By MusicPromoToday

Universal Music Group, one of the world’s largest music companies, has reduced its radio expenses as the influence of traditional radio formats wanes.

The company’s efforts to cut back on radio expenses come as more consumers turn to streaming platforms for their music needs. In the past, radio airplay was a key factor in driving music sales, but as streaming services have become more popular, their importance has diminished. As a result, Universal Music Group has shifted its focus towards promoting its artists on streaming platforms and social media instead of relying on traditional radio airplay.

By reducing its radio expenses and focusing on promoting its artists on streaming platforms and social media, Universal Music Group is positioning itself to take advantage of these new channels. This approach allows the company to reach a wider audience and build deeper connections with its fans, which can ultimately lead to increased potential music sales and revenue.

Overall, Universal Music Group’s decision to reduce its radio expenses reflects the changing landscape of the music industry and highlights the importance of adapting to new trends and technologies in order to stay competitive.

Should Your Continue Radio Promo?

Radio plugging services and radio promotion still remain important for a few key reasons:

1. Exposure: Getting your music played on the radio will give you a lot of exposure to a wide audience. This can be especially valuable for up-and-coming artists who are trying to build a following.
   
2. Credibility: Being played on the radio will also lend credibility to your music. It can show potential fans and industry professionals that your music is of a high quality and worthy of attention. This is where Shazam comes in handy. Fans hear your track on the show and Shazam it to then save to their playlist.
   
3. Promotion: Radio plugging services often come with additional promotion, such as interviews, features, and social media mentions if the DJ, hosts or executive producer of the show starts to like your personality, track or overall image. This can help to build buzz around your music and increase your visibility further.
   
4. Industry connections: Many radio plugging services have established relationships with radio stations and industry professionals. This can help to open doors and provide opportunities that may not have been available otherwise.

How to Execute a Radio Campaign?

Fill out this form, send us your music and let’s chat about getting your song on the most influential radio stations!

Types of Radios: 

Commercial Radio: Commercial radio stations play a wide variety of music and can be a great way for musicians to get their music heard by a larger audience. Musicians can try to get their music played on commercial radio stations by submitting their music to the station’s music director or by hiring a promotion company to help promote their music.

College Radio: College radio stations are often run by students and are a great way for up-and-coming musicians to get exposure. College radio stations tend to play a more diverse range of music than commercial radio stations, and many college radio stations have specialty shows that focus on specific genres of music. There are a ton of it… talk about opportunity and proper targeting!

Satellite Radio: Satellite radio offers a wide variety of music channels, including channels that focus on specific genres of music. Musicians can try to get their music played on satellite radio by submitting their music to the station or by hiring a promotion company to help promote their music. i.e. Sirius XM

Internet Radio: Internet radio stations are becoming increasingly popular and offer musicians a way to get their music heard by a global audience. Musicians can submit their music to internet radio stations or start their own internet radio station.

Public Radio: Public radio stations often have music shows that focus on specific genres of music, and many public radio stations have a dedicated music director who can help musicians get their music played on the station. Musicians can submit their music to public radio stations or contact the music director directly.

Where MPT Agency Adds Value: 

Expertise and Experience: MPT Agency has a team of experienced professionals who have a deep understanding of the radio promo industry. We have worked with a diverse range of music genres, radio stations, and we can bring our expertise to help you achieve your radio goals: airplays and interview opportunities.

Customized Solutions: MPT Agency provides customized solutions to artists based on their specific needs and requirements. We take our time to understand our clients’ goals and objectives, and create tailored strategies to meet them. Some releases are a better fit for college radio campaigns, some work perfectly across various mediums.

Quality Talent: Our agency has a radio department of more than 8 full-time experts who are screened and trained to ensure they have the necessary relationships, skills and experience to get your song on rotation on air. We also provide ongoing training and support to ensure their staff are up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques.

Cost-Effective: Our radio plugging services are not ultra expensive like many competitors. MusicPromoToday provides cost-effective solutions to clients by offering flexible staffing options and competitive pricing.

Results-Oriented: MPT Agency/ MusicPromoToday is focused on delivering results for its clients. We track and measure the effectiveness of our radio campaigns, implement strategies and adjust them as needed to ensure our artists and releases achieve their goals.

Posted on March 31, 2023

Warner Music Invests In Technology Lays Off 4% Of Its Global Staff

By Barbara Drews

Warner Music Group recently announced plans to cut 270 jobs as part of its efforts to reposition the company towards technology. The record label has clarified that this move is “not a blanket cost-cutting exercise,” but rather a strategic reorganization intended to keep up with the changing business landscape.

According to Variety, the new CEO Robert Kyncl announced that certain difficult choices need to be made to evolve and take advantage of upcoming opportunities. In an email addressed to the staff,  he stated that the company’s operators across various territories, divisions, and labels had thoughtfully made every decision by considering their respective priorities, skills, and requirements, to establish a strong foundation for long-term success.

The specific positions or departments that will be impacted by the job cuts are not immediately clear, but Kyncl stated that approximately 4% of the company’s global workforce will be affected. 

On Wednesday, Warner Music U.K. announced that it has created a new role for Isabel Garvey, who previously served as managing director of Abbey Road Studios. Garvey will now serve as the chief operating officer for the division and will report to CEO Tony Harlow. 

Additionally, the announcement revealed that Jennifer Ivory, currently senior VP of Warner Records U.K., will replace co-presidents Nick Burgess and Mark ‘Mitch’ Mitchell as Parlophone‘s managing director. General manager Jack Melhuish will also be departing.

WMG made it clear that the decision to restructure the company was not made casually. The parties involved have stressed that the move was essential to guarantee the company’s longevity in light of the continuous disruption and advancements in the music industry. 

Though the job cuts would undoubtedly be difficult and demanding for those impacted, Warner Music emphasized that the restructuring was not primarily intended to cut costs. Instead, it was a strategic maneuver aimed at repositioning the company to focus on technology and innovation.

Read Kyncl’s full memo below:

Hi everyone, As I mentioned at our first All-Hands meeting last month, I’m committed to direct and honest communication with all of you. The music business is filled with new possibilities: more fans are engaging with artists and songs than ever, our reach is enormous, and new business models are constantly emerging. WMG is positioning itself for this new phase of growth at the intersection of creativity and technology.

In my discussions with our leaders across the company, many of them came to the same conclusion – that to take advantage of the opportunities ahead of us, we need to make some hard choices to evolve. Consistent with this direction, we’ve made the tough decision to reduce our global team by approximately 270 people, or about 4%. At the same time, we’re reallocating resources towards new skills for artist and songwriter development and new tech initiatives. We’re also reducing discretionary spending and open positions to provide us with additional flexibility for our future. 

I want to be clear that this is not a blanket cost-cutting exercise. Every decision has been made thoughtfully by our operators around the world, who considered the specific needs, skills, and priorities of each label, division, and territory, to set us up for long-term success. The leader of your division will either be holding a town hall or sending an email to explain more about this path forward.

I’m also acutely aware of how unsettling this can be. Having to say goodbye to talented colleagues is always difficult. For those of you who will be leaving WMG, please know that we’re deeply grateful for your hard work, dedication, and all you’ve contributed to this company. In all territories, except where you are explicitly told there will be a review or consultation period, anyone affected will hear from your leaders, supervisors, or People team reps within 24 hours. I know this transition will be tough, but we’re committed to supporting you during this process.  

In times of great disruption in our world and society, artists and songwriters who have something original to say, who rise to the occasion, will resonate the loudest. Equally, the rapid changes in our economy and ecosystem create the conditions and opportunities for innovation and breakthroughs. I learned when I joined WMG that this is a gritty, incredibly resourceful, and highly impactful team that I want by my side every day of the week. We deliver for our artists, songwriters, and labels with laser focus, inventiveness, and care. And now, more than ever, we need to double down on that.   

I’ll have more to say about all of this at our next All-Hands meeting, including more details on our plan.   

Let’s support each other with empathy and integrity as we work through this process.   

 Thank you,  

  Robert

As part of a broader reorganization effort, Warner Music Group is investing heavily in new technologies and infrastructure, including AI and machine learning tools to better predict music trends and consumer behavior. This will enable the company to streamline its operations and become more efficient, allowing it to focus on developing and promoting new talent. 

Warner Music Group’s goal is to maintain industry leadership in discovering and nurturing new talent, and the changes implemented will enable them to achieve that goal more effectively. Kyncl was assigned as the new CEO last September and in February took over for Steve Cooper, who left the company after 11 years. 

His background includes major roles at Netflix and YouTube, where he served as a crucial player in repairing the streaming giant’s previously tumultuous relationships with music companies. During his tenure at Netflix, he supervised the company’s shift to streaming, and he has been bridging the tech and entertainment sectors for years. The appointment of Kyncl as Warner’s CEO represents a change towards technology-focused leadership within the major labels.

Kyncl has acknowledged the music industry’s and Warner Music Group’s need to adapt to the constantly evolving landscape, especially as the financial benefits from streaming appear to be stagnating. However, he has not provided specific details and has stated the need to conduct further research before implementing any measures. Wednesday’s announcement appears to be among the initial actions taken following his thorough analysis.

Mr. Robert has revealed that the company will redirect its resources toward acquiring new skills to promote artist and songwriter development. His appointment as CEO is widely considered a strategic move towards technology development as the music industry looks towards social media, gaming, the metaverse, and artificial intelligence for licensing opportunities and future revenue growth beyond streaming.

Despite the job cuts, Warner Music Group remains one of the most successful and prominent music companies globally, boasting an impressive array of artists, including Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Cardi B, and many others.

Access Industries’ acquisition of Warner Music Group in 2011 led to its public offering in 2020. WMG is presently the third-largest music company globally, with labels like Atlantic, Warner, 300-Elektra, Parlophone, and Warner Chappell Music Publishing. 

Over the past decade, the music industry has experienced significant disruption and transformation due to the popularity of streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music. This has created fresh opportunities for artists and labels but has also resulted in companies needing to adjust rapidly to keep up with changing consumer preferences. 

Warner Music Group’s choice to restructure and pivot towards technology is a testament to the evolving landscape of the industry. The company’s flexibility and openness to change will be essential for its ongoing success in the future.
If you’re looking to stay informed about the latest happenings in the music industry, be sure to check out MPT Blog. As a leading music marketing and promotion agency, MusicPromoToday regularly provides updates on new and emerging trends, as well as tips and strategies for artists and labels to help them succeed.

Posted on March 29, 2023

Launch Like a Pro: Innovative Strategies for a Flawless Release Day

By Yvonne Martin

Launching a new single or album is an exciting time for any musician. A successful release day can mean increased streams, downloads, and fan engagement, leading to a boost in their career. However, a flawed launch can result in disappointment, missed opportunities, and negative feedback from fans and critics. 

With the music industry becoming increasingly competitive, it’s more important than ever to have innovative strategies for a flawless release day. In this article, we’ll explore some proven tactics that can help artists launch their music like a pro and maximize their chances of success. Whether you’re an independent artist or signed to a record label, these strategies can help you stand out in a crowded market and make the most of your release day.

Throughout this article, we will be discussing four innovative strategies that you can use to make sure that your single or album launch day goes off without a hitch. From building anticipation through social media and pre-release promotion to optimizing your streaming strategy and engaging with fans, we’ll provide actionable tips and insights that you can use to ensure that your release is a success. 

Whether you’re a new artist trying to make a name for yourself or an established musician looking to take your career to the next level, these strategies can help you launch your music like a pro and make a lasting impact on your audience. So, let’s get started and explore how you can optimize your release day for maximum impact.

Build A Game Plan

Building a game plan for the release day of your single is an essential part of launching your music successfully. Without a clear strategy in place, you risk missing out on valuable opportunities to promote your music and connect with your audience. The key to building a game plan is to identify your goals and objectives, and then create a roadmap for achieving them.

One important consideration when building a game plan is timing. It’s important to set a specific release date for your single and then work backward to create a timeline for all of the tasks that need to be completed leading up to the release. For example, if you want to release a song in May, you should begin seeking press attention in April. This helps you to set deadlines and plan ahead of time.

Secondly, consider the song’s ideas and how you could pitch yourself distinctively. 

• Is it related to a wider cause like animal rights or environmental wellness? 
• Was it shot in a unique location or with a well-known crew? 
• Did something specific in your life inspire you to write this? 

→ Discover relatability and use it to your advantage.

Then, begin researching who you want to submit your song to. Be realistic – Pitchfork is definitely not a feasible pitch if you’re just starting off. You can, however, compile a list of new or smaller blogs, podcasts, and influencers to target.

Join Forces With Other Artists

Joining forces with other artists on the release day of a single can be a powerful strategy for creating a buzz around your music. Not only does it increase your exposure, but it also allows you to tap into new audiences and expand your reach beyond your current fan base. Collaborating with other artists can also be a great way to gain inspiration and creativity, and potentially learn new techniques that you can incorporate into your own music.

When it comes to partnering with other artists, there are many different ways to approach it. One common strategy is to feature each other on the same track, allowing for a combination of different genres and sounds that can appeal to a wider audience. By working together, artists can leverage their strengths and create a release day bombshell that captures the attention of music fans everywhere.

Run A Giveaway

Running an online exclusive giveaway on the release day of your single is a powerful way to engage with your fans and build buzz around your music. By offering a special prize or incentive to those who engage with your music on release day, you can incentivize fans to share and promote your music with their friends and followers.

How? Follow These Steps:

When running an online giveaway, it’s important to first identify your target audience and the type of prize that would be most appealing to them. This can include:

• Exclusive merch
• Concert tickets
• Personal meet-and-greet with you

Next, you will need to promote the giveaway through your social media channels and email list. This can include:

• Sharing graphics
• Creating video content
• Using targeted advertising to reach a wider audience

To ensure a successful giveaway, it’s important to set clear rules and guidelines for entry and announce the winner promptly after the giveaway closes. This can help to build trust and credibility with your fans and encourage them to participate in future promotions.

Throw A Release Day Party!

Throwing a release day party with a theme is a fun and effective way to celebrate the launch of your single and connect with your fans. By creating a memorable experience for your fans, you can build buzz around your music and create a lasting impression that will keep your fans engaged for the long term.

When planning a release day party with a theme, it’s important to first choose a theme that is relevant to your music and will appeal to your fans. To ensure a successful party, it’s important to plan and promote the event well in advance. During the party, it’s important to engage with your fans and create opportunities for them to share their experience on social media.

Keep Promoting The Release

Keeping up the promotion after the release day of your single is crucial to the success of your music career. While the release day is a critical moment in your marketing campaign, it’s important to remember that promoting your music is an ongoing effort that requires consistent attention and effort.

One effective way to keep up the promotion after the release day is to create engaging content that builds on the momentum of your release. A couple of examples include:

• Behind-the-scenes footage
• Live performances
• Interviews with influencers or media outlets

Additionally, it’s important to stay active on social media and engage with your fans on a regular basis. 

• Respond to their comments and messages
• Share user-generated content
• Create interactive polls or Q&A sessions

By staying active and engaged after the release day of your single, you can build a loyal fan base and create long-term success in the music industry. With consistency and perseverance, you can turn a successful release into a sustainable and thriving music career.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, launching a single or album is a crucial moment for any musician, and the strategies you employ can make all the difference in the success of your release day. By using innovative tactics such as the above-mentioned strategies, you can build anticipation and excitement around your music and create a buzz that will help you stand out in a crowded market.

Remember to engage with your fans, promote your release across multiple channels, and use data analytics to optimize your strategy for the best results. With these tips and insights, you can launch your music like a pro and make the most of your release day, setting yourself up for success in your musical career. So, take these strategies and make them your own, and get ready to watch your music soar to new heights.

Make sure you check our blog about how Spotify playlists can be a huge help to your PR campaign. We regularly post key artist content so make sure to follow us on Instagram for more music marketing-related updates.

Posted on March 1, 2023

How To Prepare For Being Interviewed On Music Blogs

By Yvonne Martin

Interviewing for music blogs is VERY intriguing! Interviews are what provide fans with a unique, personal glimpse into the lives and brains of the musicians they like. They are a fantastic way for musicians to communicate with and uplift their fan base, promote their music, and attract the interest of a larger audience. 

Interviews can also be the ideal setting for disappointing, offending, enraging, or boring your audience. If you’re careless, an interview could even entirely wreck your reputation For this reason, there are countless publications online on “How to prepare for an interview.” It’s crucial to be well organized. The following suggestions on how artists should approach interviews will help them make the most of this chance.

Interviews are a fantastic opportunity for publicity, whether they are conducted with a large media outlet or a regional music blog. However, they might be overwhelming for anyone who is new to the publicity scene. Here are some tips to help calm your nerves if you’re nervous about an impending interview.

Define Your Brand & Direct Your Narrative

Recognize that every media interview offers a huge opportunity regardless if the questions are uninteresting or tedious. Because an interview in any magazine is an endorsement from others and you get to shape your narrative, people believe what others have to say about you far more than they will ever believe what you have to say. 

You have the opportunity to supply responses that entice fans to interact more deeply with you as an artist. Additionally, they’ll give you the chance to direct your own story. Of course, you must first understand who your brand is, but that topic deserves its own piece.

Express Your Persona, Sentiments, And Beliefs!

Your responses can showcase your personality traits, such as your dry wit, silliness, emotional sensitivity, hopeless romanticism, or riffraff tendencies. 

Moreover, you can express your sentiments and beliefs during interviews. These are usually most obvious in the way you write and record your songs, and when it comes to expressing them in writing, they frequently get misinterpreted. 

Make links between your music’s topics and ideals and who you are as a person by displaying your vulnerabilities in the process.

Highlight Your Tribe And Showcase Others

Shining a light on others is one of the finest ways to demonstrate your membership in a tribe. Therefore, when someone asks you for some musical comparisons or when you are discussing your local scene, bring up local venues and performers you are familiar with and with whom you already have ties; perhaps you work together. 

Mention performers that you can tour or play shows with. Go the extra mile and, if possible, connect to these artists’ songs or websites. After the piece is published, you can tag the venues and musicians when sharing it on social media. They could spread your content, and their followers might take note.

Respect The Writer’s Deadline

By missing deadlines, you give the impression that you don’t respect the music writer or their magazine, which is bad for your PR. When the next potential moment to feature you occurs, the writer might decide to go with one of the other 600 pitches in their inbox or choose an artist they are certain will react promptly.

Share Your Interview

To land this interview, you put in a lot of effort. It’s time to disperse it now on social media platforms and your website! The exposure of the interview relies on you because not every media publishes every post that appears on their blog or website throughout their social networks. 

Final Thoughts

For independent musicians, MPT Agency offers realistic and efficient SEO-based music marketing services to increase exposure and offer substantial social evidence for long-term success. To find out what other services can improve your musical career, make sure you check our blog regularly and follow us on Instagram for more music marketing-related updates.

Posted on February 24, 2023

D’Mile Partners With Disney Music Group For New Label Venture

By Shawn Spence

American producer and songwriter, D’Mile, partners up with Disney Music Group and Black-led media platform, Andscape, for a new global deal. The Oscar- and Grammy-winning musician, together with Music Executive Natalie Prospere and Grammy-winning mixing and audio engineer John Kercy, announced the launch of the new record label Good Company.

Disney Music Group President, Ken Bunt, confirmed the news and said:

“It’s special and unique to have a shared vision for the future of music, and the opportunity to visually tell new stories with Andscape. We can’t wait to collaborate with D’Mile, Natalie, and John and the Andscape team to deliver on this goal.”

Mio Vukovic, DMG’s Head of Creative, also added:

“We could not be more excited about working with the talented team behind Good Company and our partnership with Andscape. It allows us the dream of creating a home to cultivate and nurture Black artists through storytelling.”

Andscape Vice President and Editor-in-Chief, Raina Kelley, expressed her excitement for this new partnership as well, and noted:

“D’Mile, Natalie and John are special individuals – each true to Andscape’s vision; deep and dimensional multi-hyphenate storytellers – we’re thrilled to welcome them to the Andscape family. This incredible partnership vaults forward Andscape’s evolution as a content creator across The Walt Disney Company.”

Good Company Records was founded as a subsidiary of Disney Music Group in partnership with ESPN’s newly-renamed platform Andscape, which was previously known as The Undefeated. D’Mile, who is recognized as one of the most acclaimed professionals in the industry, has officially been assigned as the head of the firm. 

In a recent statement, D’Mile, Prospere, and Kercy, revealed:

“We are so excited to partner with Disney/Andscape on our label, Good Company. Disney is a place where we believe all of our creative ideas can come to life and we are looking forward to where this partnership takes us!”

The mastermind behind many number-one hits, D’Mile, has collaborated with A-listers like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, H.E.R., Silk Sonic, Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Ty Dolla $ign, Chris Brown, Lucky Daye, Charlie Wilson, and many others. The new label owner of Good Company is the first songwriter in history to win back-to-back Grammys for the Song of The Year category for “I Can’t Breathe” (H.E.R.) in 2021 and “Leave The Door Open” (Silk Sonicin) in 2022. 

Working with an esteemed array of musicians, all three creators of Good Company have a lot to offer with this new venture. D’Mile affirmed that the main purpose behind the new label is to discover great talent, support them, and “make a label where you just feel like you’re around good people. You’re in good company,” thus the inspiration behind the name.

This partnership is a great opportunity for Disney to connect with its Black audiences and create a real and long-lasting bond with them. It’s a very smart move from the conglomerate to actively take part and collaborate with those who are actually part of the culture. With the support of Andscape and D’Mile, DMG will surely be releasing more inclusive content in the future.

According to Forbes, D’Mile confessed that the fact that Disney basically owns everything is a good thing for him and his artists, “It’s just crazy the opportunities that can come and what I can do to help and be a part of the system.” The producer and songwriter also said: “I guess I wasn’t thinking as big as it could be. Getting into movies and TV and the shows and doing documentaries…with Disney, the possibilities are endless.”

D’Mile and Vukovic both guaranteed that they are interested in signing artists of all genres. They’re not going to be focused only on R&B acts or what’s trending on TikTok. The label will tend to find pure and raw talents that have the potential to become outstanding artists, “We want to sign the things that we love, that we believe in, and we’re not afraid to just try to grow it from scratch if we have to.”

Not only will Good Company be signing and nurturing new artists, but it will also be involved in a number of Disney and Andscape projects. The first one of which is the forthcoming documentary film about the life and transformation of Belizean rapper and politician, Moses Michael Levi Barrow, aka Shyne. The movie will be named after the Hip Hop artist (former signee to Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs’ Bad Boy) and will follow his path of becoming a statesman in the Belize House of Representatives.

D’Mile, who has won an Oscar for Best Original Song for co-writing and producing “Fight For You” from Judas and the Black Messiah in 2021, had mentioned last year to Rated R&B that he would love to “help somebody build their careers.” He plans to stay in the game for as long as possible and stay relevant even with the passing of time. So, Good Company Records is the perfect chance for him to revive his lifelong dream.

We at MusicPromoToday cooperate with the finest professionals and go out of our way to give you the most relevant industry news. Head to MPT Agency Blog and check out the recent developments.

Posted on February 3, 2023

Exclusive: $50M Withdrawn Using Sony Music’s Artists Forward Initiative 

By John Reynolds

Sony Music recently released a recap of its Artists Forward program, which was launched in June 2021. The global initiative prioritizes “transparency with creators in all aspects of their development” and delivers “more benefits and services to on-roster and legacy talent around the world.” 

According to the recap, there has been significant growth in support for SME artists. Sony Music announced that through their Legacy Unrecouped Balance Program, they will be expanding the pool of talent that “can qualify to receive go-forward earnings, regardless of recoupment status.” The label stated that “Creating more financial opportunity for our heritage artists globally is core to our mission with Artists Forward.”

In addition to the Legacy Unrecouped Balance Program, the initiative includes the marquee policy and healthcare services for artists. “Putting our artists and their wellbeing first in all steps of the creative journey is the driving priority of everything we do with Artists Forward,” explains Sony Music.

“As part of our Artist Assistance Program focused on wellness and information for SME talent, we’ve introduced free, confidential Artist Healthcare Advocacy support for on-roster and legacy artists in the U.S. through our partnership with the non-profit organization, Music Health Alliance (MHA). Qualifying artists can connect with an MHA healthcare advocate for help with navigating the process of obtaining and utilizing healthcare coverage, locating a doctor, managing healthcare bills, and more.”

Moreover, approximately more than 100 Artists around the world have benefited from Sony’s confidential counseling services, which are available for free in over 70 languages. In the recap, the label revealed that “To date, dozens of artists from across more than 12 different countries have now used these services to either establish recurring sessions with a licensed therapist or receive in-the-moment support in dealing with acute issues—and use of the program is completely confidential.” 

Through the Real Time Artists Tools suite that includes Sony Music Artist Portal and the Real-Time Insights application, the label “offers music creators and their team’s best-in-class payment capabilities, as well as up-to-the-moment updates on the consumption of their content and audience engagement data.”

From tracking and analyzing earnings to initiating withdrawals and advances of available funds, Sony Music “helps artists and their teams make decisions informed by advanced analytics” that can be provided instantly from the billions of global transactions processed every day.

With these advanced tools, Sony allows artists and participants to track earnings, cash out payable monthly account balances, and receive advances on qualifying projected earnings. Plus, creators and their teams can access marketing and creative data, “for detailed analysis of the platforms, playlists, and audiences driving track breakthroughs around the globe”.

Using new features like Real Time Advances and Cash Out, artists can request “a withdrawal of all or part of their payable balance each month as soon as it becomes available.” Based on the numbers shared by Sony in its recap report for 2022, “artists and participants have now withdrawn nearly $50 million combined.” 

Sony’s Artist Forward program is truly a groundbreaking initiative that focuses on “delivering fast, convenient, easy-to-use solutions” and supports the careers of many up-and-coming and established musicians in a dynamic marketplace.

MusicPromoToday works closely with industry professionals to provide you with the most up-to-date information. If you care to find out more about recent music and entertainment news, visit MPT Blog and read about the latest developments and trends.

Posted on February 1, 2023

Exclusive: Warner Music’s “Rhythm City” Will Make Its Roblox Debut On February 4

By Yvonne Martin

Warner Music Group, which invested in Roblox in 2021, officially confirmed that its “persistent music-themed social roleplay experience” will premiere on the gaming platform on February 4, 2023.  The first-of-its-kind digital world, called Rhythm City, is brought to life by the leading metaverse game developer and publisher Gamefam.

Chief Digital Officer and EVP of Business Development at Warner Music Group, Oana Ruxandra explains:

“As our lives become increasingly digital, exciting opportunities are opening up for artists and fans to engage and interact. WMG is focused on facilitating the foundations of these new experiences by building and experimenting across evolving ecosystems. This partnership with Gamefam sees WMG creating a place for artists and audiences to come together to define and contextualize their communities within living spaces.”

Founder and CEO of Gamefam, Joe Ferencz, also expressed enthusiasm and described the company’s relationship with WMG:

“We are thrilled to have a chance to combine our passion for developing authentic, highly-engaging metaverse content with our love of music. WMG has been a brilliant partner in pushing innovative strategies, and together with our expertise, we’ve channeled that into production excellence creating a new community for music lovers in the metaverse.”

Gamefan and WMG have built a next-generation Pop Culture world, inviting everyone to experience the virtual world, “Welcome to Rhythm City, a town where music, entertainment, and being a star are a way of life.” The main goal of the project is to make music and artists known to users through “social role-play, virtual concerts, and mini-music challenges.” 

Players can “drive a suite of hot cars, explore, role-play, and live like a star.” They can be whoever they wish to be! They can get a cool job and act as an influencer, or become a musician, agents, producers, dancers, DJs, and more. Users can even have their own house, bring friends over to chill, and listen to music. There is a wide variety of options to choose from!

In the About section of the game, WMG and Roblox have announced that many more updates are coming soon, including a very special Roblox concert. Besides all the available perks and benefits, Rhythm City provides users access to a collection of digital items sold exclusively on the gaming platform.

WMG together with Gamefam has designed a magical world that delivers the ultimate user experience. Rhythm City combines music’s alluring charm with key gaming elements and provides a platform for players to enjoy and compete in mini-music challenges, in addition to hosting virtual concerts and events performed by WMG’s most exclusive artists.

The multinational record label and entertainment company constantly collaborates with partners that aim to serve and deliver industry-leading experiences in gaming and the metaverse. Throughout the past couple of years, many of WMG’s artists have partnered with the Roblox platform, among which are Twenty One Pilots, Why Don’t We, Ava Max, David Guetta, and Royal Blood. 

This is a genius move from Warner Music Group, which keeps pushing its creative boundaries, at the same time opening new doors for artists and helping them extend their fan communities. Rhythm City will be available on the Roblox platform on February 4, 2023, across Android, iOS, Mac, Windows PC, and Xbox One. 

Click here to visit Rhythm City!

Alongside the new project’s announcement, Warner Music Group released its 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance report, reaffirming its commitment to ESG. The 40-page transcript discloses information that covers employee experience, social impact, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and climate change.

Setting new targets for 2023, the ESG report was presented by WMG’s new CEO Robert Kyncl and outgoing CEO Steve Cooper. The newly assigned Kync said:

“Music is a powerful and positive force, and WMG is filled with passionate change-makers and champions of culture. This report highlights the strong foundation for the company’s continued evolution that’s been built under Steve’s leadership. As we chart the next phase of our long-term growth, we’re committed to our ESG efforts as a critical part of our plan for WMG as a more dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable company.“

Read the full ESG report here.

MusicPromoToday collaborates with industry professionals to deliver the latest news and information. Visit our MPT Blog to find out more and read about the most recent developments and trends.

Posted on January 30, 2023

TikTok & Rotana Music Group Announce New Licensing Agreement

By Yvonne Martin

Arab world’s leading independent record label, Rotana Music, signs a new beneficial deal with TikTok. The entertainment empire had also secured an agreement with Warner Music Group (WMG) in 2021, where the latter bought a minority stake.

Sharing its vast music repertoire with WMG, Rotana allowed the label to expand its presence in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa), creating cross-cultural opportunities.

At the time, Simon Robson, WMG’s President, had released a statement saying: 

“The Middle East and North Africa region is among the most culturally dynamic places in the world today, with burgeoning musical scenes and dramatic consumption growth. We’re thrilled to be joining with Rotana, whose significant presence in the market reflects its extraordinary roster of musical icons and outstanding talent. We’re especially excited about the opportunity to both expand our profile in the region and to bring these amazing artists to audiences across the globe.”

The CEO of Rotana Music Holding, Mr. Salem Al Hendi had expressed his own thoughts on the matter:

“This is an exciting time, and we at Rotana are very happy with this partnership, which will facilitate Warner Music’s reach into the MENA music industry and fan communities, just as it will benefit Rotana in our global expansion objective.”

“The creative culture in MENA is so vibrant and diverse, and this partnership will enhance the exchange of music and ideas, while promoting and supporting local artists on the global stage. I would like to congratulate His Royal Highness Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal on this win-win partnership, which is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 to keep pace with changes taking place globally, including in entertainment and the digital music landscape.”

Now TikTok joins in to get a piece of the pie and seals a striking licensing agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Rotana Music Group. Established in 1993 and headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the company has branches in Jeddah, Dubai, Kuwait, Cairo, and Beirut.

Rotana has been the home of many prolific musicians such as Mohamad Abdo, Abdulmajeed Abdullah, Rabeh Saqer, Rashed Al Majed, Abdullah Al Ruwaished, Nawal Al Kuwaitia, Majid Al Mohandis, and many other prominent figures from that region.

The Saudi Arabian holding offers a rich catalog that includes artists from the Levant, Egypt, and North Africa, including big stars like Amr Diab, Elissa, Tamer Hosny, Najwa Karam, Shereen Abdalwahab, Angham, Wael Kfoury, Saber Al Robae, and more.

In an official announcement, TikTok announces that its platform is “hugely popular across the Middle East and North Africa.” According to the IFPI reports, MENA has proved to be the fastest-growing music region in the world, where the market revenues grew by 35% in 2021 alone.

The MENA music market mostly relies on streaming, which represents 95.3% of the region’s recorded music revenues. Based on Statista’s 2022 estimates, KSA was the country with the highest TikTok reach with 88% of the users being 18 years and older.

Speaking of the new signing, Mr. Al Hendi, says: 

“We at Rotana are very thrilled with this licensing agreement, which will facilitate Arab Music reach into the MENA music industry and young communities. The creative culture in MENA is so vibrant and diverse, and this agreement will enhance the exchange of music content, while promoting and supporting local artists on a proven leading platform for short-form videos.”

The Head of Music – Middle East, Africa and South Asia, Hari Nair, also added: 

“As TikTok continues to grow across the Middle East and North Africa, becoming a cultural force in the region, we’re delighted to bring the biggest independent catalog to our platform. Rotana Music Group represents some of the greatest names in music, spanning multiple genres and countries and we know our community will be inspired by this repertoire for their own video creations.”

With nearly 5 million users in the UAE alone, TikTok has become one of the most popular apps in the MENA region. Explaining their recent move, the video-sharing company revealed: 

“TikTok is committed to licensing and ensuring a broad, diverse range of sounds in our library for our global community to enjoy.”

Rotana Music has taken major global actions, signing partnerships with Anghami, WMG, and TikTok. The latter has also been approached by the three majors Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group for a share of advertising revenues generated on the platform. 

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Posted on January 27, 2023

Will The Metaverse Create New Opportunities For The Music Industry In 2023?

By Shawn Spence

The metaverse is the next step in the evolution of the internet and has the potential to transform the way we live, work, and play. By offering virtual environments in which people can interact with avatars, businesses can engage with customers, students can attend virtual schools, people can socialize and entertain themselves, and the music industry can reach new heights amongst the digital fanfare of the community. 

When we look at the journey of rock and roll until it faced this new digital age, we quickly accept that it has been about embracing the counterculture and going against the grain, and this spirit extends into the metaverse. As cryptocurrencies and the projects they power, such as metaverses and NFT art galleries, have gained popularity, self-identified outsiders have gathered around them and are shaping the Web3 era. In this blog, we will explore three ways in which the rock and roll energy of the music industry is transforming the Web3 era and what to expect from the metaverse projects that are here today.

Interacting With Others In The Metaverse

One of the main benefits of the metaverse is the ability to interact with others in new and exciting ways. Through avatars, two people in different parts of the world can meet and have a conversation as if they were standing next to each other. This level of immersion is not possible through other virtual approaches, such as Zoom or Skype, and offers a more lifelike experience.

The metaverse is a new space in which musicians and their communities can interact. Metaverses like Decentraland and The Sandbox are developing the sophistication to serve as concert arenas, and major artists have test-driven virtual performances. NFTs and other collectibles also offer a new level of personalization for fans who want a closer connection to their favorite artists. The metaverse also has the potential to democratize music production, allowing fans to have a say in the creation of songs, records, and album sleeves.

The Impact Of The Metaverse On Business

The metaverse also has the potential to change how businesses operate. Companies can now hold virtual events and conferences, allowing people from all over the world to attend without the need for travel. In addition, virtual storefronts allow customers to learn about products and services in a more interactive way. The metaverse has the potential to become a trillion-dollar industry, offering a new space for fun, shopping, and even work.

Current metaverses are working towards creating a one-to-one representation of self in this alternate dimension. Digital assets such as NFTs are also being applied to live concerts, with events and ticketing evolving with the medium. Major artists have begun conducting metaverse performances, and the trend is likely to continue as the metaverse becomes more realistic and sophisticated.

Educational Opportunities In The Metaverse

The metaverse also offers new educational opportunities for students. Virtual schools and universities allow students to attend courses taught by avatars in more immersive and interactive environments. This can lead to a better understanding of the material being taught, as the metaverse provides more realistic experiences than other virtual approaches.

Entertainment In The Metaverse

The metaverse also has the potential to take entertainment to new levels. While the internet has allowed people to watch movies and television shows, and play video games, the metaverse offers a more immersive and interactive experience. People can enter virtual worlds where they can explore, interact, and even compete with others, enjoying new forms of entertainment that were previously unimaginable.

Established artists are turning to digital assets, such as NFTs, to engage with their fanbases. Mariah Carey, The Beatles, and David Bowie’s estate are just a few examples of artists who have launched NFT projects based on their music and archives. Younger artists are also likely to rely on virtual means of connection, distribution, and visibility, and NFT projects can help them achieve these goals.

Conclusion

The metaverse is a revolutionary concept that has the potential to change the way we live, work, and play. Through virtual interactions, businesses can engage with customers, students can attend virtual schools, people can socialize and entertain themselves, and the music industry can reach new heights. The metaverse is not just an extension of the internet, but rather a new way of thinking about reality and how we interact with each other and the world around us.

The rock and roll energy of the music industry is transforming the Web3 era in various ways. The metaverse is breaking down barriers for music makers and fans, providing a space for virtual performances, and championing artists through digital assets. As the metaverse evolves, we can expect to see even more innovative ways in which the music industry takes advantage of this virtual world.