If there’s one thing I love more than anything about this industry, it’s the community that can be built around a single song. A feeling. A moment. The way we can rally together in the toughest of times just as well as the best. It’s what makes me love being in the music industry.
That’s why building a strong community around your music is not only a game-changer, it’s also just what makes it so fun. If you’re still growing your career and looking for a little inspiration, check out some of these ideas. Including a few that don’t get talked about near enough — or at all.
Create a Fan Club on Discord
Discord is a powerful tool for building communities. What started as a way for gamers to connect has quickly become a burgeoning opportunity for artists. There are a few channels already dedicated to the music community, but you can also create a server dedicated to your music specifically. There, fans can chat, share content, and connect with one another. Like a clubhouse but you know, for grown-ups.
Use different channels for different topics, such as general discussion, sharing other music they’re listening to, fan art, and upcoming events.
Pro Tip: Host regular AMAs (Ask Me Anything) and exclusive listening sessions for new tracks to keep your fanbase engaged.
Host Virtual Listening Parties
Discord not your thing? Virtual listening parties are an excellent way to connect with your fanbase, especially on a global level. Use platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, or Instagram Live to create a one-of-a-kind virtual listening party or concert for fans.
Pro Tip: Make it interactive. Just because it’s virtual doesn’t mean you don’t pull out all the stops! Answer questions, share behind-the-scenes stories about the songs as you play them, and encourage fans to share their own interpretations and experiences.
Organize Local Meetups and Jam Sessions
You know I had to have a few in-person options on here! Look, I love how much we can do online but there’s nothing quite like in person. So while online engagement is crucial, never underestimate the power of face-to-face interaction.
Organizing local meetups and jam sessions where fans can come together, meet you, and connect is a great way to strengthen your relationship with fans and musicians alike. Have fun with it! You can do themed parties, mixers, have guest speakers —there are no rules. You get to create the type of event you’d want to go to.
Pro Tip: Collaborate with local businesses or venues to host these events, which can also help you reach new potential fans and often provide cheap or free spaces to use.
Leverage Fan-Generated Content
This can include cover songs, fan art, dance videos, or even TikTok challenges. I’ve even had artists use fan-submitted videos and photos for music and lyric videos or run contests for album or single art. Feature the best submissions to show appreciation and foster a sense of appreciation among your community.
Pro Tip: Create specific hashtags for these campaigns to make it easy for fans to participate and for you to find and share their content.
Host Themed Events or Contests
You can host a virtual or in-person costume party inspired by your latest music video (who cares it it isn’t Halloween?, or a songwriting contest where fans submit their own lyrics. Offer prizes like signed merch, free concert tickets, or a one-on-one video call with you. If you have any skills you can also auction off those. For example, if you’re a guitar teacher offer a chance to win a free lesson. If you work at the local cafe, maybe breakfast is on you that day.
Pro Tip: Use KingSumo to collect emails for your email list, and encourage contest participation.
Build Partnerships with Other Artists
Who else will understand what you’re doing more than other musicians? Collaboration can involve co-hosting events, creating collaborative playlists, or even releasing joint tracks. By pooling your audience with other artists, you can reach new fans and create a stronger, community.
Pro Tip: Choose artists with a similar style or audience to ensure a natural and authentic partnership. Even better if they’re in a market you’re trying to break into.
Offer Exclusive Content and Experiences
Everyone loves to feel like they’re a part of something special. Give your fans something they can’t get anywhere else, like a behind-the-scenes video, early access to new music, exclusive merch, or intimate live performances. Platforms like Patreon allow you to offer these perks and charge a low monthly membership. As a bonus to fans feeling closer to you, they’ll help you bring in a little extra money.
Remember, the name of the game is experience. What can you do to make sure every interaction with your fans is an experience for them?
Pro Tip: Regularly update and refresh the exclusive content to keep your subscribers engaged and excited.
Building a strong community around your music takes time and effort, but it’s incredibly rewarding and if you stick with it, you will see results. Remember, it’s not just about the music—it’s about creating meaningful connections and a shared sense of belonging. That’s why we do what we do!
