Bob Baker's Indie Music Promotion Blog

The True Meaning of Independence

2009-07-03T13:06:00.000-05:00

On the eve of Independence Day in the USA, I thought I'd share this excerpt from my book, Guerrilla Music Marketing, Encore Edition:

We hear the term "indie" bounced around a lot these days. It's become quite a trendy word (although some of us have been preaching about it for more years than most). So, let me ask you …

What's your definition of indie?

Many people think of it as a reference to a musician, small record label, or film company without an affiliation with a major corporation. That's true, but I believe it has a much deeper meaning than that.

(By the way, "indie" is an abbreviation for "independent." The "ie" at the end is the proper spelling, as opposed to "indy," which is usually a reference to Indiana or Indianapolis -- as in the Indy 500. There's your grammar lesson for the day.)

I think of indie in much the same way I think of the term "guerrilla." It's more than a simple, surface-level reference to your financial backing. I believe it's a state of mind and a way of life you must bring to your entire pursuit of music.

The best way to explain my angle on this is to use an acronym. So here's my definition of I-N-D-I-E, with every letter standing for a separate concept (and I didn't even use the word "independent," which was tempting considering I had two I's to work with).

I - Inspired

To embrace the indie frame of mind, you must be inspired. You have to know in your gut that music is what you are meant to do. You must become energized when writing, recording and performing your music. Hopefully, this is something you already experience fully, without having to force yourself to feel that way.

When this kind of natural inspiration comes over you, it's a sure sign that you're on the right path. And you will need this desire to carry you through the ups and downs that you will surely encounter as you pursue music on your own terms.

N - Nontraditional

Indie musicians don't mind learning about what has come before, and they are happy to listen to the "rules" that others say are required to have a successful music career. However, the smartest indie artists keep their minds flexible and constantly question whether the supposed "rules" of the past really apply to them. They actually develop a mindset that seeks out the road less traveled. And when they spot a good idea that's off the traditional path, they fearlessly go after it without apologies.

D - Determined

Successful indie artists are fixated on their goals and determined to reach them. They leave room to veer from the original plan, when needed, but they are steadfast in their desire to produce great music, reach fans, sell more CDs, etc. With this attitude, obstacles become short-term learning experiences along the road to higher levels of success.

I - Innovative

Being indie means thinking outside of the proverbial box and looking at fresh opportunities from every angle. It means not promoting yourself the same way a thousand other acts have. It means being resistant to knee-jerk marketing tactics and open to new ideas and overlooked avenues for exposure.

E - Empowered

Indie musicians don't wait for someone or something else to come along and rescue them. They don't pray for a "lucky break" or to "be discovered." They know to the core that the power to succeed with their music resides inside of them. And they understand that it's their mission to tap into that personal power and use it to share their music with the world.

Let's recap my definition of INDIE:

I - Inspired
N - Nontraditional
D - Determined
I - Innovative
E - Empowered

Commit this acronym to memory. Better yet, make a photocopy of this post and pin it up where you'll see it every day.

Being INDIE has nothing to do with what company you are or are not affiliated with. It has everything to do with how much you take control of your own life and take steps to build the kind of music career you deserve.

-Bob

P.S. Guerrilla Music Marketing, Encore Edition is the sequel to my popular Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook. It's not an updated version of the Handbook, it's a completely separate book with different content. So if you enjoyed the Handbook, you'll love the Encore Edition too.

Fringe Fans: They're Really Not That Into You

2009-06-22T18:50:00.000-05:00

Imagine this ...

You get an email from someone you've never heard of or heard from before. He writes:

"I've sampled a bunch of your free downloads online, and honestly, I haven't heard one song I really like. So I'm not sure I want to spring for your new album. Tell you what ... give me the entire album for free, and if I find a few songs I enjoy, I'll pay you for it. Deal?"

How would you respond? (Once you stopped cursing, that is.)

I ask because I got an email just like this a few days ago. Only this guy wasn't asking about my music; he was referring to my articles, blog posts, and books.

He said he hadn't found anything of value in the stuff he's found of mine online. Then he asked if I would give him some full ebooks for free. If he found something that "worked" in the books, he would gladly pay me.

How do you think I responded?

Thanks, but no thanks!

Why? Don't I have confidence in my own material? Wouldn't he be rushing to compensate me if he were only exposed to the awesomeness of my best ideas?

YES, I have confidence in my material. But NO, I doubt very much he'd ever be willing to pay for anything I publish, regardless of the cost or the arrangements.

The point being ... this guy is a "fringe fan." He is not my ideal customer. And while I welcome suggestions and respect a diversity of ideas, I won't lose any sleep over what this guy thinks.

Do you feel the same way about your fringe fans?

The reason I ask: Artists like to please people. We love a kind word and a pat on the back. Therefore, I bet you often let music consumers of all stripes steer the way you run your career.

So you give everything away, or you beg people to attend your shows, or you water down your identity so you don't offend anyone.

And guess what? That's a sure recipe for failure!

Don't get me wrong. You must be aware of the response you're getting from people. Your radar must be up at all times monitoring which songs get the most positive response and what types of people are attracted to your music the most. That's good.

But at some point you must draw a line between how you serve your "ideal fans" and how you react to everyone else.

For me, I know my ideal fans are proactive indie artists who understand the value of lifelong education and feeding their minds with fresh ideas on how to promote and sustain a music career. Those types of musicians are a small subset of the planet's entire musician population.

So when it comes to the cynical "prove it to me" music crowd ... I wish them well, but I don't expend energy in trying to please them. They are not a part of my core "tribe," as Seth Godin says. They are on the outskirts of it.

I suggest you not be distracted by the people on the fringe of YOUR tribe. Don't insult them (unless that's a part of your brand identity), but don't cower to them either.

Focus on the people who matter the most: your ideal fans!

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

The Future of Digital Music for Indie Artists

2009-06-16T21:47:00.001-05:00

Have you heard the news?

MySpace just laid off 30% of its workforce. Twitter and Facebook are on a steady rise -- for now. Streaming remote music sites like Spotify (currently available only in Europe) are gaining a lot of traction. And Richard Branson's Virgin Media just launched a new music download subscription service.

Whew!

It's enough to make your iPhone spin out of control and careen into your Amazon Kindle :-)
A LOT of change has taken place in the music industry over the past eight or nine years. Come to think of it, a lot has changed in the past six months alone.

People are confused. Musicians want answers. Self-promoters need to know the best way to invest their limited time and money. Industry veterans plead for the roller coaster ride to just stop already!

Here's the truth ...

There are no answers!

There are no rules, no strict guidelines, no risk-free road maps to widespread fame.

That sucks, doesn't it? Well, it can. But you have another choice:

Have some fun with it!

Experiment. Try stuff. For instance, be the first artist to [do something outrageous] using [the latest hot social site or app]. Fill in the brackets with different combinations till you find a winner.

Let your imagination wander and ask lots of "What if ..." questions. Then get busy creating your own little mad scientist music marketing laboratory.

While the technology and tools change constantly, some things remain important no matter what:

Understanding who you are as an artist
Knowing the type of person most likely to enjoy your music and identity
Communicating who you are and what you play clearly and quickly
Putting yourself in a position to be discovered by your ideal fans
Being accessible to fans and having a direct conversation with them
Building relationships with people over time
Making enticing offers to purchase your for-sale music products and services

But the way you pursue these timeless elements is up for grabs and constantly evolving. And that's where you can thrive today.

So let go of your need for certainty. Don't be so tight-assed about needing to know all the answers.

Again ... Experiment. Try stuff. And pay attention to the results you get from your efforts. Then simply do more of what works and less of what doesn't.

Here's the conclusion reached in a music industry report published last year called "Meet the Millennials":

In summary: technological advancement will promote further diversification in the music industry, in terms of business models, content and mechanisms for artist/fan interaction.

No single approach is 'the next big thing,' and experimentation is strongly encouraged. No one can afford to wait for proof of concept when the next big innovation is always just around the corner.

Millennials [young people who have grown up in the digital age] are constantly experimenting with and evaluating their experience as consumers. We suggest the music business does the same.

Sounds like great advice to me!

What do you think?

-Bob

If you don't own it yet, check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Prices Slashed On 3 Awesome Music Resources

2009-05-22T07:38:00.000-05:00

Do you like bargains? Then you'll love the greatly reduced prices on these three titles:

"7 Secrets to Making Money With Your Music"

This is an incredible package I put together with entertainment attorney Nick Nanton that I guarantee will boost your bottom line.

If you want to kick-start your revenue-producing chops and start generating the music income you deserve -- no matter what the economy is doing -- please check out this powerful resource (and the new low price) now.

"Indie Music Publicity Bootcamp"

This one is a 5-hour audio recording of an in-depth workshop I did in New York with Cyber PR specialist Ariel Hyatt. If you're ready to rock your media exposure to new levels, this resource is for you!

Learn more about the Indie Music Publicity Bootcamp.

"How to Tap Into NACA and the Lucrative College Music Market"

Have you heard of the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) or the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA)?

These organizations have regional and national conferences where musical acts of all kinds showcase in front of hundreds -- sometimes thousands -- of college campus entertainment buyers.

If you do well at a NACA or APCA showcase, you can book dozens of college shows worth tens of thousands of dollars in one fell swoop.

Find out more about this opportunity here.

-Bob

The Groundhog Day Music Success Method

2009-05-19T09:36:00.001-05:00

Remember the movie Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell? Murray plays a weatherman who finds himself living the same day (February 2) over and over again in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

No matter what happens on any given day, the next morning he wakes up at exactly 6:00 AM to the sound of Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" on the alarm clock radio. Even though his memory of the previous day is intact, everyone he encounters is seeing him for the first time -- going through the exact same motions as the previous day.
That plot is a good metaphor for success with music -- or anything else, for that matter.

Let me explain what I mean by first taking a quick detour that will bring this all into focus ...

Earlier this year Oprah Winfrey admitted that she had lost a lot of ground with her weight -- even showing unflattering before and after pictures on the cover of her magazine.

Bob Green, her personal trainer, was interviewed on Larry King Live soon after. He recalled a time a few years ago when Oprah celebrated her weight loss by saying something like, "I've made it. I finally conquered the weight demon."

Green said that was part of her relapse problem. She considered her weight issued solved instead of something she had to work at every day. That's when this Groundhog Day Success Method idea started to form.

How often do we do that with our personal endeavors? We reach a goal, overcome a challenge, attend a workshop, read a book, have a new insight, enjoy a breakthrough, or attain a new status level ... and we celebrate!

Don't get me wrong. Celebrating is good! You should savor all the small and large victories along the way.

But sometimes that celebration can turn into laziness -- especiallly if you adopt the "I've arrived" mentality.

The solution: Treat every day like you're Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. No matter what happened the day before, treat today like you have to do it (and earn it) all over again. The slate has been wiped clean and it's up to you to make something happen again.

And that goes for both positive and negative results of the past. If you reached an important milestone yesterday, you can enjoy the memory. But get to work striving for something new today. If you fell flat and made a giant mistake yesterday, don't focus on it. Because today is a brand new opportunity to start fresh.

This way of thinking also helps you cultivate what's called the "Beginner's Mind." Remember when you were just starting to play and perform, and how everything was so fresh and exciting then? Bring that same state of childlike being to everything you do in the present.

You'll never know it all. You'll never have it all. You'll will never "arrive"! So don't kid yourself into thinking that's where you are or that's where you're headed, because you'll never get there.

Appreciate the past, affirm your positive future, but live and enjoy life in THIS moment. It's the only one you have, and it's the only time when you can truly make a positive impact -- on a consistent, daily basis!

Treat every day like you're doing things for the very first time.

Which reminds me ...

Remember the movie Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell? Murray plays a weatherman who ...

:-)

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

How to Promote Children's Music

2009-05-11T15:11:00.000-05:00

Have you ever thought of getting into the children's music market? You're not alone. It seems there are a lot of people who want to publish either a children's book or music CD -- or both!

But this musical niche is a little trickier to navigate than other genres.

A few months ago, Mr. Billy (an accomplished indie artist who specializes in music for kids) sent me some questions for an article we was working on, and it gave me a chance to offer some marketing tips in this specialized area.

Here's part of that Q and A exchange:

What are the main differences to consider when promoting kids music as opposed to other musical genres? What's the #1 Rule for marketing in this genre?

The main thing that sets apart children's music is that you have two audiences you must cater to: 1) the kids who consume it, and 2) the parents, teachers and grandparents who buy it. Most artists must simply focus on one type of end user consumer. But children's music has that added challenge.

The #1 rule? Focus your music on the kids. Focus your marketing efforts on the parents, teachers and grandparents. In fact, have a separate page on your site for each group: one for parents, one for teachers, etc.

Also, create some interactive activity on your web site that kids can do. Take a look at what Webkinz and Build-a-Bear have done to get ideas. If you can get kids to repeatedly ask their parents if they can go to your web site and play, you will be "top of mind" when the next birthday or holiday rolls around.

And that's the main question you should ask yourself: How can I get the idea into a parent's or teacher's mind that I am a good resource for their kids?

Also, at your live events, offer something that kids can take home with them. Even if it's a simple sheet of paper with quizzes or cartoons. And make sure your web site address is on it. Better yet, create a fun list of questions, and make it so that the kids/parents must go to the web site to get the correct answers.

-Bob

If you don't own it yet, check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Niche Music Markets: 7 Great Examples

2009-05-05T14:56:00.000-05:00

In the third week of my Berklee Music Marketing 101 class, we delve into the power of focus and niche marketing. One of the exercises asks students to list real-life examples of niche music markets. I'm always amazed by what they uncover.

Here are seven solid examples of artists and music companies that serve very focused audiences:

1) Janet Marlow composes relaxation music for dogs, cats and horses. I kid you not. Check out her Relaxation Music for Pets web site.

2) Then there's ChristianMusicFitness.com - yes, it features fitness music with a Christian theme.

3) Sugar Hill Records is an indie label that focuses exclusively on bluegrass, Americana, and folk artists.

4) In 1984 Michele Valeri, Michael Stein and Joe Pipik produced an album called Dinosaur Rock. The recording led to a successful stage show, which led to the formation of a touring company. Since then Dinorock has produced nine more dinosaur shows that delight children and their parents.

5) Green Owl Records is a NYC-based record label started by artists with the idea that great music can be sustainable -- both economically and environmentally. Green Owl is committed to respecting the planet through the use of green technology.

6) Then there's the Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra in New Zealand. The name says it all.

7) Greentrax Recordings specializes in Scottish, Celtic and Gaelic music.

Bonus example:

The Switchblade Kittens have a couple of things that set them apart. For starters, they describe themselves as "an all-bass, girl-centric band." And their second CD, called The Weird Sisters, was inspired by the Harry Potter books.

Also see some of the Wizard rock sites that pay tribute to the many bands that make music inspired by the Harry Potter series.

Lesson: When you narrow your focus, you create an opportunity to bond more closely with a specific type of music consumer. You can either base your entire career on such a niche, or have spin-off sites that cater to niches within a wider genre that you serve.

However you use it, the laser-focused niche approach is worth some serious thought.

-Bob

P.S. Here are some related links from my archives:

12 Steps to Niche Music Success

Wedding Gigs and Lucrative Niche Markets

Do You Have a Millionaire Mind?

Your Lousy Music Career

New Video: Define Your Musical Identity

2009-05-01T11:35:00.000-05:00

I've been going through hours of workshop video looking for choice segments to post on YouTube.

I just uploaded a new one on how to "Define Your Musical Identity." It was recorded in January at Eurosonic Noorderslag in the Netherlands (Holland).

It's only 2 and a half minutes. Watch it now below or on this Define Your Musical Identity page on YouTube.

I'll post more clips soon. In the meantime, my "3 Step Formula for Creative Success" is on the verge of hitting 20,000 views.

And "How to Sell 15,000 CDs in 18 Months" with Terry Prince just passed 13,000 views.

You can see all 29 videos on my YouTube channel page.

-Bob

How to Tap Into NACA and the Lucrative College Music Market. Why settle for low-paying club gigs, when you could be making $5,000 ... $10,000 ... even $50,000 or more playing the college music circuit? College submission deadlines will be ending soon. Don't be left out of this year's college booking submission season! Learn more ...

Gatekeepers & Music Promotion Overload: The Good News

2009-04-28T11:17:00.002-05:00

It's the biggest frustration I hear uttered by independent artists and promoters worldwide: The growing workload.

How can I find the time to do all this social networking and guerrilla marketing stuff?

I've got so much on my plate already, how am I supposed to add even more to my overflowing to-do list?

I hear you. I know. And ISN'T IT WONDERFUL?

Huh? What in Jehovah's name is so wonderful about being overburdened by all that needs to be done to succeed with music?

I have a good answer. Let me explain ...
You've heard of "gatekeepers," right? In decades past, the gatekeepers of the music industry were A&R execs at major labels, prominent artist managers, radio station program directors, music magazine editors, big venue talent buyers, etc.

You needed to get the approval of some of these "special people" to have half a chance at fame, fortune and success with your music. If they didn't deem you worthy, you were damned to struggle in obscurity for the rest of your days.

I exaggerate to make a point, but that's the power that many aspiring artists gave to these gatekeepers in the past. Sadly, many artists still grovel at their feet today.

But now there are new gatekeepers. You can also call them "filters." And it's these new filters that help weed out and determine who is to be highly successful, moderately successful, and not very successful at all.

(Of course, "success" can be measured in many ways. There are no right or wrong definitions. But for the sake of this article, let's say that success is the ability to support yourself financially from your music-related income.)

One type of new gatekeeper are music consumers. You must get a response from at least a small slice of people in the marketplace to gain traction and grow your career.

Chris Anderson spells this out wonderfully in his book, The Long Tail. He describes the industry gatekeepers of old as "pre-filters." They decided who was worthy of being exposed to a wider audience. There was a weeding out process *before* the music was produced and distributed to the general public.

Nowadays, Anderson says, there are "post-filters." Because of the Internet and digital technologies, practically everything is made available to the public. And now music consumers decide what is worthy of their time, attention and money.

If you can break through the clutter and find your audience, and if what you create inspires fans to rave about it to their friends, your notoriety and career will grow.

I love that concept. But there's another new filter that has become more obvious to me in recent years. And that has to do with effort and workload.

The truth is, not everyone embraces marketing, publicity and social networking. In fact, a large percentage of artists have disdain for most marketing activities and curse the long list of things they must do to promote themselves effectively.

THAT'S GREAT!

And it's not just because the workload problem means there will always be a demand for my books :-) What I really like about it is how it has become a new organic filter that thins out the number of artists who succeed at higher levels.

Yes, the Internet and digital technologies have created a more level playing field. I've been saying that for years. But we need to clarify something:

It's more accurate to say that all artists now have "equal access to the field." How you play your role once you're on the field is a whole different ball game.

Just showing up does not guarantee you a full-time income. Some indie artists do amazingly well, some do moderately well, and many continue to struggle -- no matter how many opportunities and low-cost tools are at their disposal.

It really comes down to a new "survival of the fittest" paradigm. Only a small percentage of artists have that rare combination of musical chops, stage presence, likeable qualities, marketing smarts, communication and social skills, discipline, drive, passion, etc.

Sure, there are ways to lighten the workload, involve your fans, and pay people to do design work and other technical tasks. But the most effective artists are hands-on with many aspects of their promotion. It's something they accept and embrace and make the time for.

So I encourage you to reevaluate your relationship with marketing, social media, and your growing to-do list. Find a way to incorporate them into your life! Yes, it takes effort. Yes, it can be confusing and frustrating. YES, it's what you need to do to make an impact with your music!

This post may seem like it's not the most uplifting one I've ever written, but let me ask you this:

Wouldn't you rather have every artist's success be based on their unique ability to create remarkable music and find an ideal audience that supports them ... instead of success being based on what a small group of industry gatekeeper insiders feel is worthy?

I'll take the new filters and gatekeepers any day!

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

The Key to Creative Success & Fulfillment

2009-04-21T14:28:00.003-05:00

There's a two-word phrase I've been using a lot in recent years. The words have a pretty profound meaning behind them -- and they have everything to do with achieving creative success and fulfillment.

But I've discovered a surprising thing about them: These words are often misunderstood by many people.

Here they are: "serve others."

And here's an example of I how used them in a recent ezine:

"There's no better way to create your own prosperity than to engage yourself in something you are passionate about -- and that serves others in the process."

Sounds simple enough. But the disconnect comes when people think about "service" in one of two ways:

1) They think that being of service to others only takes place when you are raising money for charity or working in a soup kitchen. Wrong. Doing charity work is certainly admirable and is one great example of serving. But it's only one aspect of a much larger picture.

2) Another misguided notion is that "serving others" means you are subservient -- meaning you have to be submissive, compliant and obedient to authority. Nope. Actually, quite the opposite is true. Being of service to others is often one of the most self-empowering things you can do.

The kind of service I talk about takes place when you focus on the benefit that your talents deliver to people who are attracted to it. It takes center stage when you are driven more by the need to make people feel good via your music and creativity than you are to gain fame and fortune.

Having this attitude turns marketing into a completely new endeavor. It's not just about you and your needs. It becomes more about your audience and how you can spread your feel-good vibe to more and more people.

Dexter Bryant Jr. gets this. Here's part of an email he sent me last week:

I couldn't agree with you more, Bob!

The first time I read a Jay Conrad Levinson's Guerrilla Marketing book (about 10 months ago) my eyes were opened to new possibilities. My research since then, including reading your excellent Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, teaches me time and time again the value of engaging oneself with one's passions while also serving others.

It is the best life mantra I could ever want. I can't think of a better way to live a happy and fulfilling life than this. The gratification received from serving others is an unbelievable feeling in and of itself, but to be able to do that while pursuing your passions is amazing.

The connection between these two things for me is the ingredient to happiness in life. I have always been the type of person who was unwilling to accept an average 9-to-5 life doing work I wasn't interested in.

Discovering guerrilla marketing has truly changed my life. I never have to worry about a 9-to-5 or about retirement because I'll never tire of helping others and engaging my deepest passions.

A big thanks to Dexter for reminding us all of the keys to success and fulfillment!

-Bob

If you don't own it yet, check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Radio & Podcast Interview Tips for Musicians

2009-04-08T13:48:00.001-05:00

So you've just booked an interview on a major radio show or podcast. Congratulations! Your voice and message about your music will reach hundreds or maybe even thousands of listeners. This interview will make a huge impact!

Or will it?

Make the most of your radio and podcast interviews by being prepared. Here are a dozen of the best tips I found from three different online sources.

1) Disable call waiting: dial *70 first and then call the studio number. This disables call waiting for the duration of the phone call. As soon as you hang up, it will be reactivated.

2) Smile, smile, smile! Whether you are on radio or TV ... SMILE. You'll feel better and sound a lot more interesting too.

3) Know exactly how much time you will have on the air as a guest. Three minutes or 30 minutes? You want to tailor your answers to the time allotted.

4) Practice some prepared sound bites before the interview. Communicate your main points succinctly. How do you describe your music? What inspired your new album? What's so special about your next gig? Practice this out loud.

5) Have three key messages. Short ones, not sermons. Sometimes the host opens the door, other times you have to answer a question and segue to a key message. A compelling message will have the host asking for more. But even if you squeeze in only one or two, you'll get a big return for the time invested.

Source: Scott Lorenz

6) Try to avoid doing interviews using a cell phone or a headset. Both are unreliable.

7) Submit suggested questions ahead of time, and focus on giving your best answers to the questions you have provided. But never assume the interviewer will use your questions. Be ready for anything.

8) Compliment the host when a good question is asked: "That's an excellent question" or "I'm glad you asked that." It also helps to draw in your audience.

9) Use the interviewer's name in conversation. It creates a more intimate connection that the audience feels privy to. And it makes the interviewer feel good too.

Source: AnnieJenningsPR.com

10) Have a glass of water handy (at room temperature). When your throat is lubricated it's easier to talk. Plus, the water serves as a "cough button" if needed.

11) Try standing while you speak -- even for a phone interview. Your voice will carry further and you'll sound more animated.

12) Get your listeners involved. For example, before a commercial break, ask them to get a pencil and paper to write down the web site you are about to share where listeners can get your free downloads. Then they'll have something to write with when you plug your web site later.

Source: Joe Sabah

I hope these 12 tips help you make the most of your next interview!

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

Want to See Your Name in My Next Book?

2009-04-07T18:43:00.000-05:00

Last week I officially pre-launched my newest book, called "55 Ways to Promote & Sell Your Book on the Internet."

But I did it in a very unusual way. Some might even call it "revolutionary."

See what I'm talking about at www.IndieBookPromotion.com.

Actually, I borrowed this idea from a familiar source: the indie music world. As I wrote about recently in my fan funding and donation sites post, many bands over the years have turned to their fans for help. They pre-sell a new CD before it's even recorded. And they give the fans who support them early on a lot of perks, like free downloads of early song demos, their names in the CD sleeve credits, etc.

I'm doing something very similar with this next book, which will be my 7th published paperback -- and my very first title specifically geared for authors and book publishers. (A survey a few years ago showed that 8 out of 10 people want to publish a book at some point in their life. Are you one of them?)

So I invite you to be part of this unconventional book launch. You'll get your name and web address in the printed book, along with lots of other goodies. See all the details at www.IndieBookPromotion.com.

Yes, this isn't your typical book publishing formula. Then again, I'm not your typical author :-)

I encourage you to think outside the octagon as you build your own music (or book) career too.

-Bob

Check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Criticism & Bad Reviews: How to Deal With Rejection

2009-03-25T10:24:00.000-05:00

I got an email from a musician who was torn up over a bad media review he got because of a recent show that was plagued with technical difficulties beyond his control.

He was obviously upset about what this critic had written, but it was also clear that he is often tortured anytime someone is critical of his work.

Luckily, I got over the "what people think of me" curse many years ago. But this email served to remind me that many creative people are operating with ultra sensitive natures and fragile egos.

I am writing an article on how to deal with rejection and overcome this unproductive reaction to other people's opinions. I plan to post it here next week ...

But I want your help!

Give me your thoughts on criticism, bad reviews, and how you deal with personal and creative rejection.

How have you overcome this stinging sensitivity? What have you done to break free?

Post your comments below, or click the Contact tab above and shoot me an email. I'll use some of the best comments and attribute whoever I quote.

Check this page next week for the final article. Thanks for your help!

-Bob

Have you seen the new, improved Music Marketing Insiders Club? Get exclusive, members-only resources delivered every week. And, depending on your membership level, you can get access to the incredible "Indie Music Success Vault," 4 free bonuses, and a 30-minute coaching session with me. It's probably a LOT more affordable than you think! Visit www.MusicMarketingInsiders.com for the entire scoop.

New Survey Reveals Most Working Musicians Not Adversely Affected by the Economy

2009-03-19T09:05:00.000-05:00

Last month I ran an online survey to find out how the weak global economy has affected working independent musicians. The results may surprise you.

I wanted to know how musicians were faring, compared to one year ago, in four areas:

Online music sales
Live show music and merchandise sales
The number of live bookings and performances
Sideline music income (giving lessons, running sound, etc.)

Respondants had six choices for answers:

Much lower
A little lower
About the same
Up a little
Much higher
Doesn't apply to me

342 people responded. What were the results?

Well, contrary to what most people probably assume, half or more of the working musicians who took the survey have NOT been hurt by the economy.

Online music sales got the most positive results, with 55% of respondants reporting about the same or higher numbers compared to last year.

Live performances seem to have suffered the most, with 38% saying they are worse off than last year. But even in this category, 50% reported about the same or higher.

You can see a more complete overview of the responses in this two-page 2009 Music and the Economy Survey PDF file.

But here are some of the music survey highlights:

Online music sales:
41% about the same
14% higher
25% lower
55% have not been hurt by the economy (*report about the same or higher)

Live show music and merchandise sales:
34% about the same
16% higher
32% lower
50% have not been hurt by the economy *

Number of live shows booked and played:
25% about the same
25% higher
38% lower
50% have not been hurt by the economy *

Sideline music income:
34% about the same
17% higher
23% lower
51% have not been hurt by the economy *

Again, you can download this two-page 2009 Music and the Economy Survey PDF file to see a more detailed listing of results.

-Bob

Check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

9 Fan-Funding & Donation Sites to Raise Money for Your Next Music Project

2009-03-13T11:41:00.000-05:00

Are you ready to record a new album, produce a video, or take on an ambitious new music project? But you don't have the cash on hand to make it happen now?

Do what a growing number of smart artists have done in recent years: ask your fans to contribute!

The band Marillion reportedly raised $725,000 by pre-selling its Anoraknophobia double-CD album before it was ever recorded. Jill Sobule raised more than $80,000 from about 500 fans to record her California Years album, due out in 2009.

But even lesser known artists have had success with this fan-funded business model. Take a look at what these indie acts have done to involve their fans in music fundraising:

Mia Kim
http://www.sukeyrose.com/

Christine Kane
http://www.bemyrecordlabel.com/

Scott Andrew
http://saveyoufromyourself.com/

Kristin Hersh
http://kristinhersh.cashmusic.org/

Great, your sold on the concept. Now how do you set up a system to collect funds from your fans?

Well, a number of new sites have sprung up to provide this service to musicians. The most prominent ones are:

SellaBand
http://www.sellaband.com/

Slicethepie
http://www.slicethepie.com/

ArtistShare
http://www.artistshare.com/

CASH Music
http://www.cashmusic.org/

Bandstocks
http://www.bandstocks.com/

Each of the sites above have different structures and fees, so look over the details closely before committing to using any of them.

But you don't have to use a music-specific site to do this. Here are four more easy ways to ask your fans to support you financially:

Chipin

PayPal Buttons for donations

Amazon Simple Pay Donations

Justgiving

You don't have to wait until you have a big music project to ask your fans for help. Just put a donation or "tip jar" button or widget on a page where you offer free downloads.

For instance, here's the request on Kristin Hersh's download page:

"The music here is yours to download. Please consider making a one-time contribution using the form below (not tax deductable)."

Bottom line: Don't become a "I don't have the money now" victim. Ask the people who can really help you the most: your fans!

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

Now Live: Twitter Music Promotion & Marketing Guide

2009-03-04T13:18:00.001-06:00

Check out this brand new resource page that features links to everything you always wanted to know about using Twitter to market your music, connect with fans, promote your live shows, and sell more music.
Twitter Music Promotion & Marketing Guide

It's an ever-expanding page of incredibly useful Twitter music resources.

Let me know what you think of it, and feel free to share the page link with anyone you want.

Also, please send suggestions for links I should add to the guide.

-Bob

Check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Free Music Promotion Resource Launches March 4 at Noon Eastern

2009-03-03T18:10:00.003-06:00

For the last several days I've been working on a new FREE online music marketing resource that will rock -- once I unveil it.

So here's a tease: I will launch this new web page on Wednesday, March 4, at 12 Noon Eastern Time (which is 11 AM Central and 9 AM Pacific).

Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/MrBuzzFactor and be the first to get the link to this new online music marketing resource. Did I mention it will be completely free?

Talk with you tomorrow!

UPDATE: The page was just launched at this link: Twitter Music Promotion and Marketing Guide. Enjoy!

-Bob

Have you seen the new, improved Music Marketing Insiders Club? Get exclusive, members-only resources delivered every week. And, depending on your membership level, you can get access to the incredible "Indie Music Success Vault," 4 free bonuses, and a 30-minute coaching session with me. It's probably a LOT more affordable than you think! Visit www.MusicMarketingInsiders.com for the entire scoop.

Social Networking & the TGIF Word Play Challenge

2009-02-27T09:31:00.000-06:00

Last Friday I posted this simple message to my Facebook and Twitter accounts:

Bob wants you to give him another meaning for TGIF. Like "Thirsty Goldfish Ingest Fervently." Your turn!

I received a LOT of creative and funny responses left as Facebook wall comments and Twitter replies. Here are some of the better ones (with a social networking lesson at the end):

Those Gams Invite Fondling
David

Today Gratitude Is Foremost
Margaret

Tempting Girlfriends Incite Foolishness
Deepak

The Gnome Is Frolicking
Cheri

Tomorrow Gets Interesting, Frodo
Kathy

Try Getting It Fried
Lisa

True Greatness Inspires Frivolity
David

Try Guinness, It's Fab
Though Guinness Increases Farting
John

Twitter Goes Idio-Fanatical
Arnold

That Guy Is F**ked
Macdara

Tweeple Gather Interesting Friends
Rocky

Time Grows Increasingly Fractal
David

This Genius Is Frisky
Matt

Why am I sharing this with you? Two reasons.

First, these responses are amusing. And if you want to add one of your own, I encourage you to leave one in the comments below.

Second, this is a good example of how to use social networking beyond pure self-promotion. Yes, I plug my books and other things on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc. But I balance those promotional messages with conversations.

You should do the same thing.

Many people go too far one way or the other. No, I don't need to know every move you make on Twitter. But sharing some snippets of your personal life is fine, especially if it engages people and stirs some discussion.

Some "social networkers" do nothing but post sales messages. I don't know about you, but after a while I start tuning these people out and unsubscribe from their feeds.

Check out how John Mayer and Ryan Seacrest (and even MC Hammer) use Twitter to communicate. It's a mix of personal and promotional. And it works!

So, start using these sites to plug your new songs, live events, and media coverage -- while also asking questions, replying to other people's comments, linking to amazing sites and blog posts, sharing funny thoughts, etc.

Got it?

Great. Thank God It's Friday!

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

How Is the Economy Affecting Your Music Career?

2009-02-24T12:22:00.002-06:00

Please take a moment to fill in a quick poll about how the economy is affecting your music career. It will only take a few seconds.

Try this survey link first.

If it's maxed out on responses, try this one.

And if it's really popular, here's a third poll option.

Paying attention to the financial news these days can be painful. No doubt, these are crazy times.

But I'm not interested in what the media says about the economy. I want to know how it's affecting you and your music career.

Let me know at the survey links above. I'll report the results within a week or two.

-Bob

Check out Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook, the classic guide to indie music promotion. Now revised and updated, with four new chapters on Internet and Web 2.0 music marketing.

Music Web Site Design Tips & Re-Branding Yourself

2009-02-19T09:03:00.009-06:00

Is your artist, label or music company web site getting the results you want? Or do you simply think there might be ways to tweak your current music site to get more out of it?

If so, check out the tips I share in the audio clip below. It features a three-minute segment from my new Killer Music Web Sites report. It just may help you attract more fans and make more of an impact with your music.

Have you ever thought about switching genres or releasing new music that is completely different from what you've been known for? And what do you do about all of your previous musical history that can easily be "Googled" online?

That was the dilemma that Nancy faced when she called in during my most recent Ask Bob Teleclass. You'll hear my answer in the audio clip too.

There are two ways to listen. If you want to stream it and listen now, just click the arrow on the player below:

Or you can download the MP3 file directly:

Download the MP3

(To download the file, place your cursor over the link and right-click your mouse. Then select "save target as" or "save link as" to save it to your hard drive. Mac users: Control-click and select "Download link to disk.")

Make sure you know when I present the next Ask Bob Teleclass (and submit a question of your own) by going here.

To your success!

-Bob

P.S. Would you like me to critique your music web site? Or maybe you'd like my feedback on a pressing music marketing issue or project? If so, check out my music consulting and coaching page for details.

The Facebook Terms of Service Uproar

2009-02-18T09:39:00.000-06:00

It's been the talk of the social web in recent weeks. If you haven't heard, Facebook recently updated its Terms of Use. Many bloggers who paid attention to the details were outraged. One of the more popular posts on the topic (Facebook's New Terms Of Service: "We Can Do Anything We Want With Your Content. Forever") has been viewed more than 550,000 times.

But just today, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted the following message, which demonstrates a smart move for the growing company -- and the power of citizen voices in corporate policy:

A couple of weeks ago, we revised our terms of use hoping to clarify some parts for our users. Over the past couple of days, we received a lot of questions and comments about the changes and what they mean for people and their information. Based on this feedback, we have decided to return to our previous terms of use while we resolve the issues that people have raised.

Many of us at Facebook spent most of today discussing how best to move forward. One approach would have been to quickly amend the new terms with new language to clarify our positions further. Another approach was simply to revert to our old terms while we begin working on our next version. As we thought through this, we reached out to respected organizations to get their input.

Going forward, we've decided to take a new approach towards developing our terms. We concluded that returning to our previous terms was the right thing for now. As I said yesterday, we think that a lot of the language in our terms is overly formal and protective so we don't plan to leave it there for long.

More than 175 million people use Facebook. If it were a country, it would be the sixth most populated country in the world. Our terms aren't just a document that protect our rights; it's the governing document for how the service is used by everyone across the world. Given its importance, we need to make sure the terms reflect the principles and values of the people using the service.

Our next version will be a substantial revision from where we are now. It will reflect the principles I described yesterday around how people share and control their information, and it will be written clearly in language everyone can understand. Since this will be the governing document that we'll all live by, Facebook users will have a lot of input in crafting these terms.

You have my commitment that we'll do all of these things, but in order to do them right it will take a little bit of time. We expect to complete this in the next few weeks. In the meantime, we've changed the terms back to what existed before the February 4th change, which was what most people asked us for and was the recommendation of the outside experts we consulted.

If you'd like to get involved in crafting our new terms, you can start posting your questions, comments and requests in the group we've created -- Facebook Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. I'm looking forward to reading your input.

Congrats to Zuckerberg for his honesty and for responding to the people who have made Facebook the success it is. And a big Thank You to the bloggers and Facebook users who rattled the cages enough to get the attention of those in charge.

-Bob

Have you seen the new, improved Music Marketing Insiders Club? Get exclusive, members-only resources delivered every week. And, depending on your membership level, you can get access to the incredible "Indie Music Success Vault," 4 free bonuses, and a 30-minute coaching session with me. It's probably a LOT more affordable than you think! Visit www.MusicMarketingInsiders.com for the entire scoop.

Elizabeth Gilbert on Creative Genius

2009-02-13T09:51:00.002-06:00

Just watched this video last night and had to share it with you today. It was recorded this month at the TED conference.

Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love, muses on the impossible things we expect from artists and geniuses -- and shares the radical idea that, instead of the rare person "being" a genius, all of us "have" a genius. It's a funny, personal and moving talk.

-Bob

Get your FREE copy of my Music Marketing Secrets special report. It shows you how to get more exposure, attract more fans, and sell more music! Go here to grab your copy now ...

Indie Artists Get Grammy Award Nominations & Wins

2009-02-12T18:57:00.038-06:00

According to an email sent by Tony van Veen and CD Baby, the following independent artists (all unsigned CD Baby clients) were nominated for Grammy Awards this year. Some of them even won!

Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance
Linda Jones - Baby I Know
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lindajones

Best Urban/Alternative Performance
Wayna - Higher Ground
http://cdbaby.com/cd/wayna2

Best New Age Album
Peter Kater - Ambrosia
http://cdbaby.com/cd/peterkater13

Best Tropical Latin Album
Gonzalo Grau Y La Clave Secreta - Frutero Moderno
http://cdbaby.com/cd/ggylcs

Best Tejano Album
Tortilla Factory - All That Jazz
http://cdbaby.com/cd/tortilla8

Best Traditional Blues Album
Elvin Bishop - The Blues Rolls On
http://cdbaby.com/cd/elvinbishop

Best Traditional Folk Album
Tom Paxton - Comedians & Angels
http://cdbaby.com/cd/tompaxton3
Peggy Seeger - Bring Me Home
http://cdbaby.com/cd/peggyseeger5
Winner! Pete Seeger - At 89
http://cdbaby.com/cd/peteseegerat89

Best Hawaiian Music Album
Various Artists - Hawaiian Slack Key Kings Master Series, Vol. 2
http://cdbaby.com/cd/hskk2

Best Reggae Album
Winner! Burning Spear - Jah is Real
http://cdbaby.com/cd/burningspear10

Best Zydeco Or Cajun Music Album
Cedric Watson - Cedric Watson
http://cdbaby.com/cd/cedricwatson

Best Polka Album - Vocal or Instrumental
LynnMarie & Charlie Kelley as The Boxhounds - Speechless
http://cdbaby.com/cd/boxhounds
Walter Ostanek and His Band, Jerry Darlak and The Touch, Bob Kravos and His Band -
Back To Back Hall of Fame Polkas
http://cdbaby.com/cd/wojdbkbands

Best Musical Album For Children
Brady Rymer And The Little Band That Could -
Here Comes Brady Rymer And The Little Band That Could
http://cdbaby.com/cd/bradyrymer6

Best Spoken Word Album For Children
Buck Howdy With BB - Around The Campfire
http://cdbaby.com/cd/buckhowdy3

Best Recording Package
The Ditty Bops - Summer Rains
http://cdbaby.com/cd/dittybops

Yes ... Elvin Bishop, Tom Paxton, Pete Seeger, and Burning Spear are officially considered indie artists. I haven't checked out the facts, but I assume they are no longer signed to labels and are running their careers as free agents. Amen to that!

Congrats to all the "indie" nominees and winners!

-Bob

Have you seen the new, improved Music Marketing Insiders Club? Get exclusive, members-only resources delivered every week. And, depending on your membership level, you can get access to the incredible "Indie Music Success Vault," 4 free bonuses, and a 30-minute coaching session with me. It's probably a LOT more affordable than you think! Visit www.MusicMarketingInsiders.com for the entire scoop.

TheBuzzFactor Story Revealed!

2009-02-11T09:13:00.049-06:00

Check this out. TheBuzzFactor.com and I are this month's featured company profile at Indie-Music.com!

Suzanne Glass sent me 11 questions about how I got started, the story behind TheBuzzFactor.com, and what has driven me to do this crazy stuff for so many years.

One of my favorite questions comes near the end, where I answer: "What are your top 3 pieces of advice to help indie musicians succeed?"

A big thanks to Suzanne Glass and Paul Bultman for their many years of work to support indie artists!

-Bob

Would You Like Me to Help You Promote and Sell More Music? Writing and performing songs is hard enough. Getting them recorded and manufactured is another hurdle. Now you have to promote and sell them!

If you could use some advice and guidance, I may be able to help. Read more about my music consulting and coaching services.

My Best Music Career Advice

2009-02-10T08:03:00.025-06:00

Do you really know the best way to succeed with your music? Are you certain about the best path to get there?

Not so fast!

Watch this video clip before you commit to any new music career plan or marketing campaign.

-Bob

P.S. Did you enjoy this blog post? Get more tips like these when you subscribe to my Buzz Factor ezine -- the longest running music career tips email newsletter on the Internet. Since 1995. Go grab your free subscription now.

Ready to turbo-charge your music marketing campaign? Check out all the new Crash Course packages on Music Marketing, Music Publicity, and Internet Promotion at TheBuzzFactor.com.