So, you’ve started a new project, and you’re not sure how to begin? In this short guide, we will go over some best practices to help make your launch a success!
Band Photos and Logo
If you don’t have any music ready and just want to announce the project, we typically don’t recommend this unless you are planning to start gigging right away. However, it can be done. If you choose this route, make sure you have both a logo and some high-quality band photos ready. There is no point in announcing the project until you have at least a logo and high-quality band photos. Announcing a project without music will likely make it challenging to build your presence.
Whether or not you have music, ensure you have high-quality band photos and a logo ready.
Social Media Platforms
Make sure you’ve claimed all the social media platforms with your band’s name, even if you don’t plan on using them immediately. This way, if you decide to use them in the future, they will be available. At a minimum, secure the following platforms:
- YouTube
- TikTok
- Threads
- Bluesky
Also, decide now which platforms you will focus on to promote your band. Based on our experience, the most important platforms for bands are YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. If you are active anywhere, prioritize these platforms.
Get a Website
This is a step many bands overlook in the social media age. While websites cost money, they are extremely important. Why? Social media platforms can block you or become obsolete, but a website is your property. You can use it to promote and sell your music without worrying about external restrictions. For example, Bandcamp could shut down tomorrow. If you only sell your music there, your band is at risk.
A website also serves as a central hub where you can post show dates, updates from band members, and anything else you choose. Additionally, a well-designed website can boost your SEO ranking if you use the right keywords.
Decide on Your Singles
Plan this in advance. When announcing your project, it’s best to have at least one single ready. Release as many singles as possible, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, before launching a full-length album or EP. This strategy helps Spotify’s algorithm favor your music. Additionally, it keeps your band on people’s radar by consistently offering new material.
From our experience, the longer the lead-up, the better the release’s overall performance.
Get Videos or Lyric Videos for Each Single
As mentioned earlier, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are vital for your overall marketing strategy. YouTube and Instagram each have over 2.3 billion users, and TikTok has over 1 billion. All three are visual-based platforms. Create videos or lyric videos for every single you release. You can repurpose these videos into Shorts, Reels, and TikTok clips to maximize your reach.
Set Up Pre-Save and Pre-Order Links
At a minimum, set up pre-save links for your singles and your full release. Additionally, create pre-order options on platforms like iTunes, Amazon Music, Bandcamp, and any physical products you plan to sell. Having pre-save and pre-order links ready is crucial for a successful release.
Set Up a Linktree
Finally, ensure that you set up a Linktree. It’s free and allows you to compile all your social media links, website, and other resources in one convenient location.
I hope this short guide was helpful! Of course, there’s more you can do, but following these basics will set you up for a successful release. If you have any questions or need assistance, please get in touch with Cori or Curtis.