As an independent artist, many tend to rely on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook (Meta), or Twitter (x) to engage with fans. However, having a dedicated website is equally vital.
The music industry is currently experiencing an exciting period in its existence. The barriers that once kept thousands of musicians out of the game have now been dismantled, enabling artists to share their music globally. According to Murry Stassen (2023), over 120,000 tracks are uploaded to Digital Streaming Platforms (DSPs) daily (Music Business Worldwide, 2023).
Musicians now have the ability to write, record, produce, mix, and distribute their tracks to every major streaming outlet and platform available. This newfound freedom allows artists to maintain independence and retain control over their creative direction. However, with this freedom comes expenses. Ideally, artists should view themselves as a business, ensuring that every move they make is a strategic one that brings them closer to their goals. These associated costs are part of the investment required to operate within the industry.
A valuable tool that many artists have at their disposal is social media. This powerful tool provides access to a wide range of analytics that can be utilized to enhance fan engagement and foster growth. As noted by Nikola Iliev (2023), platforms like Instagram and TikTok have revolutionized how artists can connect and engage with their fans (Forbes, 2023). However, social media is not always reliable, as it can experience downtime, disrupting communication with fans. This is why building a website is essential for artists at every level.
Creating a website allows artists to develop their brand in a more personalized manner. They can customize the website with unique graphics, photos, fonts, copy, and more. Additionally, artists can use the website to share relevant news about upcoming shows and new music, sell merchandise, and showcase their Electronic Press Kit (EPK). According to Melanie Kealey (2022), a website enables media contacts to access the information necessary to develop a story, helps maintain a professional online presence, and allows artists to express their personality (Bandzoogle, 2022).
One recommended tool for building a comprehensive website is "Bandzoogle." They offer a free trial period of 30 days to create your website, followed by a small monthly fee of $10, which includes a domain name. It's important to remember that investing in your career can lead to media coverage, especially when backed by a strong marketing and media package linked to your website, as expressed by the term EPK. A helpful tip is to ensure that your domain name includes your artist or stage name, making it easier for people to find you quickly and efficiently. Additionally, building an email list allows you to keep your closest fans updated on upcoming releases, exclusive merchandise drops, or discounts on live shows.