Is it true that in the world of independent music that marketing is considered a sell-out? Well, whether that is a stereotype or completely true, it does not matter because it is not a sell-out, at all! If you are an Indie musician who wants to taking an anti-corporate stance or huge labels in general leave a bad taste in your mouth you can still market in the music industry with out being left with the feeling of selling out. There are other music contacts to be made and other ways of getting your music heard with out going corporate.


The fact is, there are ways to build your fan base and amplify people’s interest your independent music – without selling out. If you are an independent music maker, here are a few ways you can do some marketing without selling out to the music industry.


First, you need to put aside your anti-marketing frame of mind and think about what is best for your career in the music industry. Finding ways to reveal your ideas and creations through your sound to more people, which in turn is essentially marketing shows that you believe in what you are creating.


Doesn’t the music you develop deserve to be heard around the world? Of course you think that way unless you only want to play for yourself. Marketing does not have to be a negative word. There are ways to market and advertise your music without “selling out” as independent music artist.


Think of your fans, they are your best promoters and marketers! Marketing isn’t all about dealing with media and big corporations. If you’re not comfortable with dealing with those people, forget about them and focus on your fan base. Have you considered provided them with ways to “spread the word.” They may already be doing just this for you. Fans probably already market for you and they will be your most passionate music contacts and promoters.


So now, you just must increase your fan base’s size and your marketing will increase. See, this is done without the use of those outlets you may despise. What is better than that? What do your fans love about your music? Once you know this, it becomes even easier to find more prospective fans that would also be interested in your music and your message.


Independent music marketing does not have to be corporate nor selling out, now does it? You are sharing what you love with those who love what you do. Use this concept to your advantage. The music industry is all about money and there is money to be made. Take a little piece of the pie without feeling like you are turning your back on your beliefs.

Owner of Platinum Millennium publishing, former record label owner & national music industry seminar speaker/panelist. Author/creator of best-selling music biz books, courses, audio products & “How to” resources that helped 1000s. Go to http://www.TheIndustryYellowPages.com for more info on music contacts, music industry & independent music.

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If you are an independent musician, then I know that coming up with great music promotion ideas is one of your main goals. Gone are the days where musicians and artists have to rely solely on record deals to make the big bucks. With the rise of online music promotion on the Internet, the possibilities are literally limitless.


One of the most effective ways to market yourself and your music is through a website. But, the trick is driving traffic to that site. Fortunately, through the use of search engine optimization, this is not an impossible music promotion idea. Using keywords and title tags throughout your site will definitely help you achieve these results. Get your link out there. Post it on your MySpace page, your friend’s pages and exchange with other bands.


Another way to achieve this is by placing your music for sale on sites that cater to independent artists trying to maximize their online music promotion exposure. These sites list your CDs for sale and end up giving you a pretty fat chunk of the profits. This is a relatively new music promotion idea but quite a few artists are reaping the benefits. Remember, this is in addition to offering your music for sale on your site.


When making your CDs, include a barcode on the package. This way, you can offer local music stores the opportunity to sell your album. Local music stores tend to be particularly favorable to Indie musicians from their area. Independent music promotion doesn’t have to be difficult, you just need creativity and the drive to succeed.


You should also look into getting a MySpace page. MySpace music is a powerful tool for unsigned artists and independent music promotion. You gain maximum exposure and it will cost you absolutely nothing at all. You can’t beat that!


Include your web address on every piece of material that goes out. This will ensure people get the word about your site. Your website will be your connection to the world around you. Keep it current and up to date, no matter what. Keep it interesting and constantly changing. No one wants to constantly visit a monotonous site.


Independent music promotion has been proven a successful path for artists to take. If your ultimate goal is to get signed then will hard work and dedication it will happen. Implement the above techniques into your online music promotion routine and you will be on the track to raking in profits and hopefully fame and fortune! Keep in mind that you are always learning. Don’t be afraid to seek help for problem areas but most importantly, stay positive!

Former owner of an independent label, owner of Platinum Millennium Pub. & music industry seminar speaker/panelist. Also the author & creator of 40 + best-selling “How to” resources, that have helped 1000s find their way in the music biz. Visit http://www.SellMusicOnlineLikeCrazy.com for more info on Online Music Promotion, Music Promotion Ideas & Independent Music Promotion.

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