How To Release A Single With Zero Fans and Zero Money

Summary

In this video, the speaker provides advice for artists releasing their first song with little to no money or fanbase. Emphasizing the importance of preparation, the speaker encourages artists to set up their social media profiles, create engaging content, and leverage their friends and family for support. The power of small opportunities, such as one share or comment, is highlighted as a key to building momentum. The video stresses authenticity over ego, and suggests that every interaction is an opportunity to build a loyal following. With the right mindset and resources, even a first release without a large following can lead to success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Your first release is a unique opportunity to get everything in order before building momentum.
• 😀 It's crucial to have a strong online presence—your photos, banners, and About section are the first things people see.
• 😀 You don’t need money to get started. Platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube are great for new artists without big budgets.
• 😀 Friends and family play a vital role in your first release by sharing and supporting your music.
• 😀 Timing is key for your first release—don’t worry about building an audience beforehand. Focus on creating the right release experience.
• 😀 Authenticity is more powerful than acting like a big-time artist. Be genuine, and people will connect with you more.
• 😀 One comment or share from a person can be a gateway to building a loyal fanbase. The power of one is real.
• 😀 Don’t feel pressured to be perfect—focus on your story and allow people to join you on your journey.
• 😀 Keep engaging with your audience by sharing more content, even if it’s a cover or behind-the-scenes moments.
• 😀 Remember that no fans and no money is not an excuse to not build your fanbase. Use creativity and relationships to make progress.

Q & A

What should an artist focus on for their first music release?

For a first release, the focus should be on quality and preparation. Ensure that your social media profiles, banners, photos, and overall presentation are set up before releasing your music to capture attention as soon as possible.

Why is it beneficial to release music on SoundCloud or YouTube instead of Spotify for a first-time artist?

Platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube are free and easy to use, making them ideal for new artists without a budget. They allow you to engage directly with listeners, comment back, and build a community, all while offering a space to showcase your music without the pressure of a paid subscription.

How can artists with no budget still produce professional-looking promotional material?

Even without a budget, artists can use their phone for photos and take creative steps to improve their quality. For banners and artwork, free online tools can help create professional designs. Additionally, asking friends with an eye for design or photography can provide assistance for little to no cost.

What role do friends and family play in an artist's first release?

Friends and family are crucial in the early stages of a music release. They can help by sharing your music, commenting, and spreading the word, which increases visibility and helps you gain traction. Their support is especially valuable for the first release, much like getting people to attend your first live performance.

How does timing impact the success of a first music release?

Timing is critical because there isn’t much buildup time before your first release. You must ensure everything is prepared, and after releasing your first song, focus on building momentum quickly. It's about making a strong impact from the start and keeping the energy going.

Why is 'the power of one' so important in the early stages of an artist’s career?

'The power of one' refers to the idea that one fan, one comment, or one share can have a big impact. In the early stages, it’s important to engage with even a single person and treat them as special. This creates the foundation for building a larger fanbase over time.

What can an artist do to keep the momentum going between their first release and the next?

To maintain momentum, an artist can perform the song live, share covers, or create content that gives fans a deeper look into their process. Regularly posting behind-the-scenes content, talking about the journey, and sharing personal stories keeps people engaged and excited for what's next.

What is the danger of trying to act like a bigger artist during the first release?

Trying to act like a big-time artist during your first release can backfire, as it can come across as inauthentic. Instead, it's better to be genuine and relatable, explaining that this is the start of your journey and inviting people to join you from the beginning.

Why should artists be careful not to rely on money or a large fanbase to get started?

While having money or a large fanbase helps, it’s not essential for a successful first release. The focus should be on creativity, storytelling, and engaging with your audience. You can start small, using the support of friends and family, and build your way up without needing a big budget.

What are some practical tips for getting started with a first release if an artist has no budget?

Practical tips include using free platforms like SoundCloud or YouTube, engaging with your audience directly through comments and social media, using a phone for photos, and asking for help from friends or family to create banners and artwork. The key is to focus on the basics—authenticity, creativity, and consistency.