5 Things Musicians Get Wrong About Advertising
In the realm of music marketing, artists often hold misconceptions that hinder their adoption of advertising as a powerful tool. In episode #340 of the DIY Musician Podcast, Chris Robley engages in an insightful conversation with Kyle “Circa” Lemaire from Indepreneur. Together, they debunk five statements commonly heard from musicians and set the record straight. By challenging these misconceptions, you can unleash the full potential of music advertising and propel your career to new heights.
“I shouldn’t have to advertise my music; I’ve already spent so much money to MAKE the music.”
While creating music requires an investment, promoting it is equally crucial. Don’t waste all of that hard work you put into creating your music to fall flat without a promotional plan. Advertising allows you to reach a wider audience, attract new fans, and generate buzz around your work. It’s an essential part of building a successful music release strategy.
“But ads are icky. I don’t want to be seen as transparently ambitious. My favorite band doesn’t have ‘Sponsored’ on its posts!”
It’s understandable to have concerns about coming across as overly ambitious or inauthentic. However, advertising doesn’t have to compromise your artistic integrity. When done thoughtfully, ads can be tasteful, creative, and aligned with your unique brand.
“Fine, but I shouldn’t have to pay all that ad money to giant evil tech companies!”
While it’s true that advertising sometimes involves spending money, it’s important to view it as an investment rather than an expense. The digital landscape provides incredible opportunities to target specific audiences and maximize your ad budget’s effectiveness. Rather than focusing on the platform, shift your perspective to the potential reach and impact your ads can have. With strategic planning and careful targeting, you can optimize your advertising efforts without breaking the bank.
“I’m a musician, not a film director and movie star. Why do I have to be good at making videos now? People should just respond to the sounds.”
In today’s digital age, visuals play a significant role in capturing attention and engaging audiences. While music remains at the core, creating compelling videos can enhance the overall experience and attract new listeners. It doesn’t mean you have to become a film director overnight. Collaborate with videographers, explore creative concepts, and leverage the power of storytelling to create visually captivating content that complements your music.
“This all sounds hard. Someone else should do it for me.”
While seeking professional assistance is valuable, it’s crucial for musicians to be actively involved in their own marketing efforts. By learning the basics of advertising and content creation, you gain a deeper understanding of your audience and maintain control over your brand. Collaborating with professionals is beneficial, but being an active participant ensures that your unique voice and vision shine through.
While concerns about authenticity, financial investment, and additional skills are valid, understanding the value of advertising and approaching it strategically can yield remarkable results. Embrace the possibilities offered by DIY advertising, experiment with different approaches and collaborators, and find a balance that aligns with your artistic vision. By leveraging the tools and knowledge available, you can navigate the evolving landscape of music marketing and reach a wider audience.