When discussing a band or artist’s online presence, what often comes to mind is social media follower numbers, engagement, and, of course, content. All of these aspects are important in their own right, but an area that is often overlooked is the importance of biographical information and keeping it up to date. While different social media platforms, streaming platforms and websites allow for varying degrees of biographical information to be included, it is important that as much information as possible about who you are and what you do is shared publicly.
Who are you?
Consider the perspective of a potential new fan who has come across one of your posts on Instagram. They head to your Instagram profile but can’t find any clear information about which genre(s) of music you play, where you’re from or any info on your latest release. They leave your profile and continue scrolling.
Imagine that a journalist turns up to your show and decides to review it and wants to find out more about your backstory. They head to your social media profiles and look over your website only to find no names of band members, no information about your location, backstory or any genre and thematic influences. The journalist shares the review, but it isn’t very in-depth.
Envision a local promoter who is looking for acts to book. They find your online profiles and have a look over your socials. They can’t find anything about where you are based and continue looking elsewhere for local acts.
As a band or artist who is living their own story, it can be difficult to look at your own online presence through the lens of someone who knows nothing about you. This is why it is crucial to not only have some form of biographical information across all of your social media profiles, website(s) and streaming profiles, but also to keep it up to date as line-up changes, new releases and announcements arise.
Information To Include
Key biographical information to include:
- The genre(s) and/ or style(s) of your music
- Band location
- Latest release / news / tour announcement
- line-up, with full names preferred
- Links to social media, streaming platforms, and websites
- Band history, including major events and collaborations
Depending on where you are including this information will impact how much detail you can provide. It is best, therefore, to have a band/ artist biography with different versions suitable for different purposes: a brief bio for social media profiles, a mid-length bio for platforms such as your band’s profile on Spotify, and a long version for your website. Your Instagram bio, for example, may only include your genre(s), location and name of your latest release due to the character limitations.
Remember: you must ensure your biographical information is kept up to date. If your line-up or band location changes for example, outdated information can have an impact. It’s also important to make sure that your latest release or announcement is prominently displayed to assist with directing individuals to your music and merchandise.
Your online presence is a significant aspect of your own PR and marketing. By providing and maintaining accurate information about who you are and what you do, it’s helpful for potential new fans and industry professionals wanting to learn more about you as an artist.
For more tips on writing a band biography, check out Episode 331 of the Heavy Business Podcast. At C Squared we also offer professional band biography services. Get in touch: curtis@csquared.info.