You missed the heyday of the multi-million dollar record contracts, mega mansions, and private touring jets, but you can still be as famous as they were. Maybe even more so with the instant connection to fans around the world thanks to the great world wide web. If you want to be a rockstar, here are five ways others have done it.
1) YouTube
This is one of the top ways aspiring musicians have been discovered and catapulted to fame. All you need is a way to record and film yourself and you’re set. Well, you also need a great song (a cover will do), a great voice, and it doesn’t hurt if you’re easy on the eyes. It’s best if you have all of these going for you, but really anyone can get real acclaim if you can move your viewers. Here are some musicians who have made this work:
2) Film & TV
Have you ever Shazamed a track you heard in a movie or tv show? Lots of people do, and as an artist if you get your song placed in film or TV you are going to have huge instant exposure. Of course everyone would love to have one of their songs featured in a soundtrack, and with the right connections you can get in front of the right ears that could lead to a deal.
3) Mailing List
Don’t discount the old tried and true. Build your mailing list! It is easier than ever with social media, blogs, and through word of mouth. Offer a free song or tickets to your show to people who sign up. Once you have them on your list it’s because they want to be there, so they are invested in you. This is really your most valuable asset as it represents your core fanbase. This is invaluable in helping spread the word about your great music.
4) Play Live
After you have built a following online you can start planning shows in areas where your fanbase is biggest. Not only do you have an instant crowd at your next show by letting them know you’re coming, but they will bring their friends. There is also something about a live show that nothing you can do online can match. It creates even more rabid fans and builds your credibility as an artist.
5) Record Music
It is easier said than done even in this age of cheap home recording equipment. Cheap home recording equipment and lack of recording experience generally add up to less than stellar results. Sadly this is all too common these days with so much inexperienced home-brewed music floating out there. Invest in a good band, recording studio, and experienced engineers. The sound quality of your music will lift your art to new heights, and you will sound like the pros.