Guest Author: Daniela C.
You’ve probably done all the hard creative work in the studio and created a great music project that you’re very proud of. Now, it’s time to head into the next phase: marketing your music as an independent artist.
After uploading to streaming platforms and sharing teasers on social media, you might have a little buzz going, but how do you get those eyes and ears to become a fan base? Here’s a little secret weapon you might have been missing: an email list.
Yes, social media is usually the go-to for musicians to promote their music in this day and age and it’s less of a commitment to hit a ‘follow’ button than to give out a personal email address. But, social media algorithms are extremely fickle. One day your song could be trending or just on the verge, and the next day, it could be buried under a sea of cat videos.
But email marketing offers a direct line of communication with your fans, one that platforms (or algorithms) can’t control. And believe it or not, people still use email…a lot.
Here are some reasons that email marketing is a game-changer for a musician:
- Direct Connection: Emails land straight in your fans’ inboxes, bypassing algorithm filters. You can share updates, exclusive content, and merch drops directly to them.
- Deeper Engagement: Build relationships with your fans beyond likes and comments. Emails allow you to share personal stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and connect with them on a deeper level.
- Targeted Communication: Segment your list to send personalized emails based on fan interests. Are they super into your acoustic stuff? Send them a link to an exclusive unplugged performance video.
- Conversions: Drive traffic to your website, sell tickets and merch, or promote your latest release. It all works together!
Now that you know the importance of email marketing, how do you build an email marketing list as a musician?! Here are some ideas that can turn casual listeners into dedicated subscribers:
- Giveaways and Incentives: Offer exclusive content like downloadable demos, unreleased tracks, or personalized shoutouts in exchange for email signups.
- Website Opt-In: Make signing up for your list easy. Place a prominent signup form on your website with a clear call to action (CTA) like “Get Exclusive Updates.”
- Social Media Integration: Add signup forms to your social media profiles and encourage fans to follow you for email updates.
- Merch Table: Capture email addresses at gigs by offering discounts or freebies in exchange for signing up. Promote your email list with flyers, QR code, or a simple sign.
- Cross-Promotion: Run contests where subscribing to your email list is an entry requirement. You can also collaborate with other musicians and/or influencers to increase your exposure and get their fans on your list!
Great, you’re starting to build your contact list! Here’s how to keep your fans engaged in your email list and coming back for more:
- Regularly Scheduled Emails: Aim for a consistent schedule. Weekly updates or monthly newsletters keep you top-of-mind.
- High-Quality Content: Offer valuable content your fans can’t find anywhere else. Share studio updates, upcoming tour dates, personal stories, or music videos. Fans these days love behind-the-scenes insight into the creative process, so share away!
- Personalized Emails: Use your fan’s name and cater content to their interests. Fans love to feel like you’re speaking directly to them!
- A/B Testing: Experiment with different email formats and subject lines to see what resonates best with your audience.
- Track Results: Marketing platforms, like HAULIX, offer valuable email analytics. Track who opens, clicks, and listens to audio files to understand what works and what doesn’t.
Building an email list is an investment in your music career. It allows you to build genuine relationships with your fans, promote your music effectively, and ultimately grow your following.
Take a step beyond the social media shout-out and start building a direct connection with your fans – one email at a time. Remember, it’s not about how many followers you have, but how connected and engaged you can stay with them!
If you’re a musician who wants to take control of your email list, visit here to learn more about how HAULIX can help you track, personalize and build your contact lists all in one platform.
