Beyond the Music: A Practical Guide for Independent Artists
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Thank you for reading this introduction. I am writing these lines with the hope of offering a little help to those working on their musical projects. I know that music is a visceral art form that comes from within, and true art should never be limited by restrictions. I hope that you never compromise when it comes to the production of your content. You must feel free to express yourselves – if you like something, it deserves to be published! There are bound to be others who will appreciate it, and if not, you’ve created it for the most important person in the world: YOU!
That said, I am here to offer some small but helpful ‘formatting’ tips. As an editor since 2009, I’ve gained enough experience to understand what can truly enhance your work. While many of these suggestions may seem trivial or familiar, I believe this list includes essential points. Too often, beautiful projects lack an online presence, or they’re difficult to fins on the internet.
My final piece of advice is to stay consistent. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your music project is something to nurture over time. Stay strong through the inevitable hard times – that’s when persistence matters most. Keep going, and don’t give up!
With the hope of being helpful,
Alessandro Cicioni
European Indie Music Network
Must-haves for a Music Project:
– A dedicated website
– Active presence on major social media platforms
– Availability on all major digital music stores
How to Properly Submit a Song:
Digital Music Distribution
First, ensure your music is published on digital stores!
I recommend using Soundrop.com, a platform designed for creators. As they put it: ‘We make it easy to distribute your songs so you can get paid and spend more time creating.’
I’ve personally used this platform since 2015 and have had a positive experience. Their customer care has always been helpful when needed. It costs 99 cents per song to publish, but your music will be available on virtually every major platform.
I also used RouteNote (https://routenote.com/), which offers a free option. However, they tend to take longer to publish your music. (But hey, it’s free!)
A Website
Having a dedicated website is essential for any music project. Your website acts as the central hub for all your online activities, giving you control over your content and how it’s presented. It should include key elements like:
· Your bio
· Music
· Videos
· Tour dates
· A blog or news section
Additionally, it should contain links to your social media profiles and digital stores where fans can easily access and purchase your music. A well-maintained website can help build your brand, engage with your audience, and provide a professional image to industry contacts such as promoters, managers, and press.
Recommended Platforms:
· Bandzoogle (https://bandzoogle.com/)
· Wix (https://wix.com)
For a free option, Linktree (https://linktr.ee/) allows you to create an organised link hub to share across your social media platforms.
Relationships with Curators
Social Media Engagement
· Always post, share and tag on Facebook. For example, if someone responds positively to your music, shares your post, or announces, ‘We will broadcast your song on [day] x at [time],’ make sure to share it with your followers.
· If the publication asks your followers to take and action (like voting for you on a leaderboard), encourage them to participate.
Reach Out to Local Newspapers
· If you’re producing music in a specific area (e.g., Oxfordshire, London, Melbourne), local newspapers may be interested in covering your music as a local story.
· Local press coverage is valuable for increasing your visibility and credibility. Sharing these stories on your pages can boost the perception of your project’s importance.
A mention or ranking on charts like the Euro Indie Music Chart can be newsworthy. For example, bands worldwide have gained national newspaper coverage by simply stating, ‘Our band made the top 10 on this chart!’
Tip: Write your press release clearly and professionally.
Build Strong Relationships
· Show that you care by sharing posts from curators on both your page and personal profiles.
Budgeting for Promotions
· Allocate a monthly budget (e.g., €100) for promotions. Some radio stations accept donations or offer small services for independent artists.
· Building good relationships with these stations and supporting them financially can make them more inclined to support your project.
Publish Everywhere and in All Formats
· Ensure your music is available on as many platforms as possible. This makes it easier for people to discover your music wherever they are.
How to Send Emails to Curators
Follow these tips to improve your chances of getting featured:
1. Send Personalised Messages
· Address the email to the program director, using their name if possible.
· Mention why you’re interested in their program to show you’ve done your research.
· Write in the recipient’s native language whenever possible. Consider hiring a translator for accuracy.
2. Target Thematic Radio Stations
· Focus on stations that align with your genre. For example, avoid sending rock music to a dance-focused station.
· Demonstrate knowledge of their audience to build credibility.
3. Contact Local Newspapers
· Emphasise your local connection to appeal to hometown media outlets.
4. Engage on Social Media
· Tag stations or shows when they respond positively.
· Create simple graphics with their logo (using tools like Canva) to share on your channels.
5. Ensure Metadata is Accurate
· Use tools like MP3tag to ensure your files are well-organised and professional.
6. Follow Up Politely
· If you don’t get a response, follow up at regular intervals. Always remain polite and empathise with their workload.
Organising Live Tours
The same approach can be used to organise concerts and tours. For instance, some musicians have successfully arranged tours in other countries by contacting venues directly. Start with local gigs, but building a network of venues and contacts can greatly benefit your music career.
Merchandising for Independent Artists
Why It Matters:
1. Revenue Generation: A valuable income stream beyond music sales.
2. Brand Building: Helps define your identity.
3. Fan Engagement: Fosters loyalty and community.
4. Promotion: Acts as a walking advertisement.
5. Event Presence: Enhances live shows.
6. Diverse Offerings: Appeals to different audience segments.
Platforms to Consider:
· Redbubble: A user-friendly, print-on-demand platform that connects you with a global audience.
Social Media Presence
Maintain active profiles on major platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter. Each platform has unique strengths:
· Instagram and TikTok: Great for visual and short-form content.
· Facebook: Ideal for event promotion and community engagement.
· Twitter: Useful for real-time updates and quick announcements.
Digital Store Availability
Ensure your music is available on all major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. Services like Soundrop can help simplify the process.
Managing the Video Aspect of Your Music Project
Why Videos Matter:
Music and visuals are deeply connected, and a good video can significantly enhance your project.
Tips for Video Creation:
· Use free tools like Fiverr or free stock images.
· Create DIY content using your phone. Shoot simple scenes in your local area or record yourself performing.
· For lyric videos, combine stock images with animated text.
Recommended Tools:
· InShot: A mobile app for editing videos.
· Specterr and Tuneform:Platforms for creating music visualisers.
For those with a higher budget, work with professional video creators. Trust their vision to bring a fresh perspective to your project.
The Importance of Language in Your Music
Language plays a crucial role in music, shaping identity, accessibility, and impact. For artists worldwide, it’s worth considering how their choice of language aligns with their story, audience, and cultural uniqueness. Here’s a breakdown of key points about language in lyrics and its effects:
- Language as Identity
Your language reflects your origins, history, and personal background. Singing in your native language or accent can celebrate your cultural roots and add authenticity. Take pride in the uniqueness of your voice and cultural influences.
- Cultural Influence and Musical Heritage
Even if you grew up listening to American or British music, finding a balance between this influence and your own cultural background creates something unique. In today’s music scene, especially in 2025, having a distinctive style is a powerful tool to stand out.
- The Global Success of Local Languages
The success of artists like Måneskin singing in Italian highlights that every language has its own charm and validity. It’s no longer essential to default to English; international listeners increasingly appreciate music in diverse languages.
- Practical Tips for Multilingual Accessibility
With modern tools, reaching a multilingual audience is easier than ever:
- YouTube: Add subtitles in multiple languages to make videos accessible to a global audience.
- Facebook: Avoid mixing languages in a single post, as it can interfere with automatic translations. Stick to one language per post to ensure clarity.
- Linguistic Nuances Across Cultures
Different languages bring specific rhythms, cadences, and emotional resonance:
- English: Accents can be a defining characteristic. Artists like Die Antwoord made their South African accent iconic. Embrace regional accents – they’re part of your unique sound.
- Italian: From standard Italian to regional dialects like Friulian and Neapolitan, Italian music has gained international respect. Rock, rap, and other genres in Italian are reaching global audiences.
- Spanish: Distinguish between European and Latin American Spanish, as each region has unique slang, style, and pronunciation that resonate differently with listeners.
- French: Accents and dialects vary widely; the Parisian accent differs greatly from that of the Ch’ti. Understanding these subtleties can help artists connect more authentically with regional audiences.
By embracing and celebrating linguistic diversity, artists can create a deeper, more meaningful connection with listeners, adding depth and originality to their music.
Some Tips on Managing a Perfect Release
Releasing music is always an emotional landmark. After months of hard work, your creation finally comes to light for the world to hear. To ensure a successful release, here are some tips based on years of experience in the music industry.
1. Avoid Announcing Far-Off Dates
If you announce today that your EP will release in June 2027, most people will forget by tomorrow! While setting a deadline can motivate you to finish the project on time, excessively early announcements don’t help build anticipation.
2. Release Your Song When It’s Ready
Take your time to ensure the song is polished. You should love it and feel confident that it’s the final version.
3. Don’t Replace or Cancel the Release
Once a release is out, consider it untouchable. Avoid updating or modifying it. Many artists create issues with distributors by reworking their releases. Stick with the original.
4. Sync the Video and Song Release
If you have a video, release it on the same day as the song. Delaying the video may reduce interest in the release, and fans might assume there isn’t a video at all.
5. Ensure Your Artist Name is Unique
Before publishing, check that your artist name isn’t already in use. If it is, tweak your name slightly to avoid confusion.
5. Cool Ways to Release Your Album
1. With Flyers
Studies show that 78% of distributed advertising materials are browsed, and 22% lead to consumer action. Hand-delivering flyers near high-traffic areas like subway exits, markets, or events can create a direct and memorable connection with potential fans.
2. With a USB Card
Music distribution via USB flash drives is a growing trend. Custom-printed drives with your logo provide a physical product fans can use in cars, audio systems, or as collectibles.
3. QR Stickers
QR Code stickers are a smart way to promote your record. Distribute them to friends, stick them on posts, or incorporate your logo for easy album promotion.
4. During an Event
Release your album at another event, such as a summer party or sporting event. You might even get the chance to perform a few tracks, leaving a lasting impression.
5. With a Release Party
Host your own release party, inviting close friends, fans, and collaborators. Offering drinks and creating an unforgettable evening is a great way to celebrate and connect with your audience.
Crowdfunding or Monthly Support?
Crowdfunding
Launch a campaign to fund your project. Supporters can receive perks like CDs, digital copies, or exclusive merchandise. However, be mindful of deadlines to avoid disappointing fans.
Monthly Support
Offer a subscription model where fans contribute a small amount each month in exchange for exclusive content. While this provides steady income, it requires consistent effort to create new material.
Self-Support
The simplest route: fund your work independently. While this gives you complete freedom, it may mean balancing music with another job to sustain your passion.
Submission Services
MUSOSOUP
Musosoup connects artists with curators offering radio play, reviews, playlists, and more. The platform simplifies the submission process: if approved, your music stays in their library for 21 days, accessible to hundreds of curators.
Key benefits:
· Affordable, pay-as-you-go PR.
· Curators approach artists, reducing administrative tasks.
Limitations:
· Musosoup vets submissions to maintain quality, so not every artist is accepted.
Learn more about Musosoup’s process here.
https://app.musosoup.com/submit/europeanindiemusicnetwork
Groover
Groover is a platform designed to help musicians get their music heard by the right people. It connects artists with a network of music industry professionals, including playlist curators, bloggers, radio hosts, and record labels. The platform is user-friendly, allowing artists to submit their tracks directly to these professionals through a clear and transparent process.
What sets Groover apart is its personalised approach: each submission comes with guaranteed feedback, ensuring you’re not left wondering whether your music was heard. This feature not only helps you gain exposure but also provides valuable insights to improve your music and promotional strategy.
Whether you’re looking to build your audience, secure playlist placements, or receive press coverage, Groover is an invaluable tool in your promotional toolkit.
Visit our Groover page: European Indie Music Network.
https://groover.co/en/influencer/profile/1.european-indie-music-network
SubmitHub
SubmitHub is a popular platform that streamlines the process of getting your music in front of industry influencers and tastemakers. With a focus on efficiency, SubmitHub allows you to send your tracks to a wide range of bloggers, playlist curators, and other music professionals with just a few clicks. The platform is known for its speed and the sheer number of submissions it processes, making it an excellent choice for artists looking to maximise their reach quickly. SubmitHub operates on a credit system, where you can choose between standard or premium submissions, with the latter offering quicker responses and higher chances of being featured. It’s an effective way to get your music reviewed, playlisted, and potentially discover a broader audience.
This is our SubmitHub page: https://www.submithub.com/radio/radioflames
We created this in partnership with Radio Flames, a fantastic radio station from Italy!
All three platforms can help you effectively build a media portfolio that shows your work, and I highly recommend collaborating with them.
The European Indie Music Network accept submissions here : https://euroindiemusic.info/ submit-your-music/.
How to Monitor That?
There is a website called WARM (https://www.warmmusic.net/) that can help you track your music on radio!
WARM provides easy and intuitive access to real-time airplay data, allowing you to utilise it effectively. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions to boost new releases or realise the long-tail value of your catalogue.
It’s very easy to use: you simply upload your song to WARM, and they track it on monitored radio stations. However, one potential issue is that not every radio station is included in their system, so smaller stations may not be on their list. You can always request to have a station added, but it’s worth noting that the coverage is partial.
Visit WARM to get started!
Never Buy Spotify Plays
Never, under any circumstances, should you buy Spotify plays. While it might seem like a quick way to boost your numbers, purchasing plays is against Spotify’s terms of service and can lead to serious consequences. Spotify uses sophisticated algorithms to detect artificial streams, and if you’re caught, your music could be removed from the platform, and your account could be permanently banned. This not only damages your reputation but also undermines the hard work and authenticity that genuine artists put into building their careers.
Instead of taking shortcuts, focus on organic growth by promoting your music through legitimate channels, engaging with your audience, and submitting your tracks to playlists and curators who can help you gain real, meaningful traction.
Why Buying Plays Is the Wrong Approach
Buying plays means paying for a service to artificially increase your streaming numbers. This is not only unethical but also directly violates Spotify’s policies. Spotify has advanced detection systems that identify inauthentic plays, and using bots or click farms is strictly forbidden. These mechanisms are designed to ensure fairness and reward artists who grow organically without manipulating the system.
Consequences of Violating Spotify’s Rules
The repercussions of inflating your play count artificially go far beyond the potential removal of a single track. Spotify may take action against your entire artist profile, leading to severe consequences:
1. Track Removal: Spotify may remove any track with detected inauthentic plays from the platform without notice.
2. Profile Penalties: Your artist profile may be penalized, making it significantly harder to get featured in official playlists or recommendations.
3. Account Suspension: In extreme cases, Spotify can suspend or permanently block your account, resulting in the loss of listeners, fans, and future revenue through Spotify for Artists.
4. Damage to Your Reputation: Purchasing plays damages your credibility with listeners and industry professionals. Modern audiences are discerning and can detect discrepancies between play counts and other engagement metrics, such as followers or likes. A damaged reputation can alienate fans and hinder potential industry opportunities.
Growing Organically: The Path to Quality and Long-Term Success
Although organic growth can be slower and more challenging, it’s the only sustainable way to build a true music career. Focus on creating quality content, promoting your music authentically, and engaging with your fan base. Here are some safe and effective strategies to increase your reach:
· Social Media and Collaborations: Use social media to build a community and collaborate with other artists to expand your exposure.
· Radio Airplay: Secure airplay on indie or online radio stations that support emerging talent. This approach gives you real exposure and helps grow a fan base genuinely interested in your music.
· Invest in Paid Ads: Platforms like Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads, and Spotify Ad Studio allow you to promote your tracks to genuinely interested audiences in an entirely legitimate way.
· Legit Playlists: Target reputable third-party playlists and follow platform guidelines to submit your music transparently.
There’s a playlist checker developed by SubmitHub that can help you determine if a playlist is legitimate: SubmitHub Playlist Checker.
True Victory: Building a Real Audience
If your goal is a lasting career in music, focus on building a genuine audience that appreciates your artistry. Artificial plays might bring short-lived satisfaction but will never build a loyal fan base or bring sustainable success. With a real fan base, each listen, share, and engagement will strengthen your brand and support your long-term growth.
In conclusion, avoid the temptation to buy plays on Spotify. Instead, invest time, effort, and creativity into building authentic connections. Your success will come naturally and sustainably.
Why You Should Avoid Using AI for Writing Your Pitches
In a world where technology can do almost anything, it’s tempting to rely on artificial intelligence (AI) to craft your pitches to radio stations, playlists, or potential collaborators. AI can generate polished, persuasive language in seconds. However, using AI for this purpose has a significant downside: it removes the human connection that is essential in the music industry.
The Importance of the Human Touch in Pitching
One of the most powerful tools you have as an artist is your voice – both in your music and in your communication. Each pitch you send is a chance to express your unique personality, creative vision, and passion. AI-generated pitches may be technically sound but often lack the soul and authenticity that make your message truly resonate.
Industry professionals can easily detect generic or automated pitches. A well-crafted, personal pitch shows that you’ve put thought and effort into your outreach. It conveys sincerity, which is much more likely to capture someone’s attention than a polished yet impersonal message.
The Human Element in the Age of AI
Authenticity and passion can’t be generated by a machine – they come from your heart and mind. By writing your pitches yourself, you create messages that resonate more deeply and give your audience a true glimpse of who you are.
Take the time to share your journey in your own words. The relationships and opportunities you build through genuine, human connection are worth every extra minute.
Because You’ll Never Be an ‘80s Rock Star (And That’s Okay)
The music industry has transformed radically over the past 40 years. Back in the ‘80s, recording a song required professional studios, producers, and distributors. Breaking into the industry was like finding a golden ticket, often guaranteeing fame. But it came at a cost: artists had to adhere to strict rules, sacrificing creative freedom for commercial success.
Today, the landscape is completely different. Digital platforms have democratised music, allowing anyone with talent and passion to share their work. Whether you’re a full-time artist or someone recording in your free time, you now have the freedom to create and share your music without gatekeepers.
What matters most is staying true to yourself. Even if only a few people hear your music, the satisfaction of creating something authentic is priceless.
The Importance of Performing at Festivals
Performing at music festivals is a significant milestone for any emerging artist. Festivals provide exposure to broader audiences and open doors to new opportunities.
Why Play at Festivals?
1. Showcase Your Talent: Festivals attract thousands of attendees, giving you a chance to captivate a diverse audience and turn casual listeners into dedicated fans.
2. Network with Industry Professionals: Festivals are hubs for scouts, agents, and fellow artists, offering invaluable networking opportunities.
3. Build Your Brand: Being part of a festival lineup enhances your credibility as an artist and boosts your visibility.
4. Create Memorable Experiences: Performing live at festivals creates unforgettable moments for both you and your audience.
How to Get Festival Opportunities
1. Build Your Network: Research festival organisers, prepare a professional EPK, and attend networking events.
2. Participate in Competitions and Auditions: Many festivals host open calls to discover emerging talent. Check out Ditto Music’s Opportunities Page for updates.
3. Organise Your Own Festival: If traditional routes are challenging, create your own opportunities to share your music.
Conclusion
Performing at festivals is more than just a gig; it’s a stepping stone toward building a sustainable music career. It offers unmatched visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to create unforgettable moments. While the road to securing a festival slot can be challenging, with determination, preparation, and a strategic approach, it’s entirely achievable. Remember, every performance brings you closer to your goals. So, keep playing, keep growing, and perhaps one day, we’ll see you lighting up the stage at Coachella or Glastonbury or at your own festival, in that case just hit us via email because we want to be there!
