Senior’s Tips for Building an Audience

James William Awad

An artist can learn everything there is about making music for free using online videos. From there, they can start producing music in their rooms, using little more than an input device and a laptop. Once there, budding musicians can have their pick of platforms where they can release music.

Still, finding a way to an audience is something that many musicians tend to struggle with. The low barrier to entry has made it that there's a lot of noise. The competition is fierce and platforms are overflowing with talented people looking for their place under the sun.

"Finding one's way to an audience is almost an art form in its own right," opines Senior, a musician with a growing presence. "Shortcuts are few and they don't always work, so musicians have to get ready for the long haul if they want to build a solid audience."

Here are a couple of tips from Senior to help musicians get where they want to be sooner than later.

Be Authentic

Even though it's sometimes hard to pin down and clearly define, authenticity is still one of the main ingredients for a successful music career. The ability to be one's true self and create music that reflects one's unique worldview and personality is very important because it provides something the audiences will recognize and latch onto.

However, chasing authenticity can go the other way, too. "In an effort to look as authentic and ‘different' as possible, some musicians will dial up their personality to eleven," explains Senior. "A musician who does that can easily become a parody of themselves, eventually turning away possible fans because it all becomes just too much." Finding the right measure is key. Authenticity needs to be effortless.

Engage People in Multiple Ways

The good news is that an artist has so many different ways to engage with people, both within the industry and just regular folks. In between various music and content platforms, forums, groups, and even comment sections, the online world alone gives new artists plenty of chances to meet other artists and possible audiences.

The physical world doesn't lack those opportunities, either. Whether it's live venues, industry events, or even classes and workshops, anyone who wants to engage listeners or just network with other artists can have their pick.

"It doesn't hurt to stand out a bit when meeting people," adds Senior. "Musicians should make sure they're noticeable and memorable. Having a sense of style or a well-composed look can go a long way in helping musicians attract an audience."

Don't Give Up!

The final tip Senior would like to impart to up-and-coming musicians is to never give up. Things are going to be tough, and there will be days when it's going to look like nothing is moving in the right direction.

However, even in the bleakest hour, there's always something good that can happen, waiting just around the corner. When the tough times come, powering through and having faith in one's ability to create great art can make the difference between having a career and being someone who could have achieved something great but didn't have the perseverance to do it.