As a talent manager, I have learnt that the internet is your best friend if you are looking to have a successful career in music. I really love to help upcoming musicians in Nigeria, Ghana, and the United States to go viral, reaching the peak of their career.
Going viral as an upcoming musician in Africa requires a multifaceted approach that includes hosting engaging events such as listening parties, networking, obtaining legal representation, utilising social media, creating high-quality content, engaging with the media, performing live, merchandising, crowdfunding, and continuous learning.
Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram can help you reach your aim. By applying these tactics and keeping a tenacious and resilient mindset, you may improve your chances of becoming viral and attaining success in the music industry.
Upcoming Musicians Africa: Ultimate Guide To Go Viral
For aspiring African musicians, perseverance and fortitude are essential qualities. Although there are always obstacles and disappointments on the path to success, long-term success may be achieved by maintaining focus on your objectives and consistently honing your trade. Embrace a network of friends, family, and business associates who are all supportive of your abilities and goals.
In order to become a viral musician in Africa, use social media to your advantage to cooperate with other artists and influencers, engage with followers in a genuine way, and produce high-caliber material. Refine your tactics using data analytics, interact with the media with interviews and news releases, and have a credible online presence with email marketing and a dedicated website.
Going viral as an upcoming musician requires a combination of strategy, creativity, and networking. One effective way to gain traction is by hosting a listening party for your EP or album. A listening party is an event where people gather to listen to music together, either in person or online. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse your audience in your music, share the experience with others, discuss the songs, lyrics, and production, and learn more about your artistic vision. By hosting a listening party, you can connect with like-minded fans, enjoy a unique and interactive experience, and build a community around your music.
If you decide to host an in-person listening party, you can gather friends, fans, and industry professionals at home or a venue. Play your EP or album from start to finish, and take breaks between tracks to discuss and share thoughts. This fosters engagement and creates a memorable experience for attendees. Alternatively, an online listening party can be just as effective. Use social media or video conferencing platforms to create a virtual room for discussion and listening. Share links or stream the music together to replicate the communal feeling of an in-person event.
Listening parties are not just about playing music; they are about creating an engaging experience. Encourage in-depth analysis and critique of your music, provide context about the album’s creation and history, and use multimedia resources like videos and interviews to enrich the discussion. Fostering a sense of community and shared passion is crucial, as is respecting diverse opinions and perspectives. By doing so, you’ll create a comprehensive and engaging experience that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship behind your music.
Networking in the music industry is crucial for success. Building relationships with other musicians, industry professionals, and potential collaborators can lead to new opportunities, gigs, and career advancement. To start, attend music festivals and conferences like @obis.house, @chunesdayafrica, @industrynite.xyz, @felabrationng, @smade, @mainlandblockparty, and Music Biz. These events offer valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals, attend panels, and showcase your talent.
Joining music organizations and associations is another excellent way to network. Organizations like the Recording Academy, Music Producers Guild, and International Music Managers Forum provide access to resources, events, and networking opportunities. Volunteering or interning at music venues, festivals, or labels can also introduce you to key players and give you behind-the-scenes experience.
Social media is a powerful tool for networking. Engage with industry professionals, share your music, and participate in online forums and groups to expand your network. Collaborating with other musicians, producers, or songwriters can lead to new connections and exposure to different networks. Attending local music events like concerts, open mic nights, and workshops is another effective way to meet other musicians and industry professionals.
After meeting someone, follow up and follow through. Send a follow-up email or message to keep the connection alive and be proactive in pursuing opportunities. Remember, networking is about building genuine relationships and offering value to others, not just asking for favors. Building a solid network requires time and effort, but it can significantly impact your career.
Having a lawyer in the music industry can help you in various ways. A lawyer can review contracts with record labels, managers, and other industry professionals to ensure you understand the terms and aren’t signing away your rights. They can help you register your copyrights and ensure you receive proper credit and compensation for your work. A lawyer can also assist with collecting royalties from streaming, sales, and performances, ensuring you receive fair payment.
Dispute resolution is another critical area where a lawyer can help. If disputes arise with industry professionals, a lawyer can represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings. They can also offer valuable career guidance and protection from exploitation. Unfortunately, the music industry has a history of exploiting artists, and a lawyer can help you avoid unfair deals and ensure you’re treated fairly.
Think of a lawyer as a guardian, watching over your interests and ensuring you’re protected in the music industry. They can help you navigate complex legal issues, negotiate better deals, and focus on your music while they handle the legal aspects. Specific scenarios where a lawyer can help include reviewing a record deal to ensure you’re getting a fair share of royalties, negotiating a publishing deal to secure ownership of your songs, resolving a dispute with a manager or publicist, registering your copyrights to protect your music, and reviewing merchandise contracts to ensure you’re getting a fair share of profits.
In addition to legal and networking strategies, engaging with your audience on social media is crucial for going viral. Consistent and authentic interaction with your fans can build a loyal following and increase your visibility. Share behind-the-scenes content, updates about your music, and personal stories to create a connection with your audience. Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube to showcase your personality and talent.
Collaborating with influencers and other artists can also help you reach a broader audience. Partnering with influencers who align with your brand can introduce your music to their followers and increase your exposure. Similarly, collaborating with other artists can lead to cross-promotion and new opportunities for growth.
Investing in high-quality content is essential for making a lasting impression. Professional music videos, well-designed album covers, and engaging promotional materials can elevate your brand and attract attention. High-quality content reflects your dedication to your craft and helps you stand out in a crowded market.
Utilize data and analytics to track your progress and adjust your strategies. Platforms like Spotify for Artists, Apple Music for Artists, and YouTube Analytics provide valuable insights into your audience’s behavior and preferences. Use this data to refine your marketing efforts, identify successful tactics, and make informed decisions about your career.
Engaging with the local media in Africa is another effective way to boost your visibility. Reach out to music bloggers, journalists, and influencers to share your story and music. A well-crafted press release can attract media attention and generate buzz around your releases. Participating in interviews, podcasts, and live sessions can also increase your exposure and build your reputation.
Building a strong online presence is vital for upcoming musicians. Create a professional website that showcases your music, biography, tour dates, and merchandise. Ensure your website is user-friendly and regularly updated to keep your audience informed. A professional website serves as a central hub for your online presence and provides a platform for fans to learn more about you.
Email marketing is another powerful tool for staying connected with your audience. Build an email list and send regular updates about your music, upcoming shows, and exclusive content. Offering freebies like unreleased tracks or discounts on merchandise can incentivize fans to join your email list and stay engaged.
Live performances are a crucial aspect of an artist’s career. Performing live allows you to connect with your audience, showcase your talent, and gain new fans. Whether it’s a small local venue or a larger festival, live performances can significantly impact your career. Make sure to promote your shows on social media and your website to attract a larger audience.
Merchandising is another way to engage with your fans and generate income. Design and sell merchandise like t-shirts, posters, and accessories that reflect your brand. Offering limited edition items can create a sense of exclusivity and urgency among your fans. Merchandise not only generates revenue but also serves as a promotional tool as fans wear and display your products.
Crowdfunding can be an effective way to finance your projects and engage with your audience. Platforms like Kickstarter, Patreon, and GoFundMe allow you to raise funds for your music while offering exclusive rewards to your supporters. Crowdfunding campaigns can create a sense of community and investment among your fans, leading to increased loyalty and support.
Continual learning and improvement are essential for success in the music industry. Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and technologies in music production, marketing, and distribution. Attend workshops, take online courses, and seek mentorship from experienced professionals to enhance your skills and knowledge.
