Each year thousands of artists embark on the journey of making new music and with all the hype around making music itself, many artists skip a few steps. One step may not seem like a big deal, but too many skipped steps can lead to a patchy, hard-to-follow distorted path. If you’re a new artist reading this, know that I am talking to you! What makes a good artist is not what they do one time but what they do every day. It’s about the foundation. Having good music is a non-negotiable part of that foundation but besides the music, having a plan is vital. Great music careers are not built in a day, so take your time and come correct! Here are 3 tips every new artist should consider for 2022 to stay on top of their game.

Tip # 1: Build a Solid Brand

Make a great first impression, you are more than the music, you are a brand. 

As a new artist, your brand, besides the music, is the most important thing you should think about. What makes you different? What do you want people to know? All great artists have a story, what's yours? A great way to help your branding stand out is by creating EPK. An Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is a digital portfolio of important things people need to know about you. It’s also the most highly requested asset. An EPK should include high-resolution images, a bio, press coverage, music and video catalog, social media handles, and more. Having your EPK on hand will help you when you’re ready to approach potential partners, brands, collaborators, music executives, media, publications, blogs, and much more. 

Looking to create your own? Download our FREE ebook on How To Build Your Music EPK. This is a perfect guide to help you collect the necessary parts of your kit. 

Tip #2: Have a Social Media Plan

You don’t have to be everywhere but you do have to be somewhere! 

This may be obvious to some and not so obvious to others, but you need a social media plan! Our current space is run by digital, specifically, social media, so you have to show up! This is not a year of hiding, playing it too cool because believe it or not, people need to see you. You don't have to be everywhere but you do have to be somewhere. From platform giants like Instagram and Tiktok to rising apps like FanBase and Lum, as a new artist, you have to decide how social media will work to your benefit. Overall, your social media presence will help you become social and discover your fans! Using your social media plan, get active on platforms, talk to people, and share ideas. Whichever platform you decide to use, show up consistently and create content that will help engage your fans around your music. Remember, content is king but marketing is queen! Stay informed with what's happening on your social platform of choice and remember to have fun.

Tip #3: Practice for Live Performances

Public speaking is still the number one fear in America and the thought of performing live can be nerve-racking for most. As a new artist, you may have already envisioned yourself performing in front of thousands, maybe even millions? Well, the only way to get there is to start practicing for live performances now. Concerts may be few and far between at the moment but those who stay ready, don’t have to get ready. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. Take advantage of local venues, watch others’ performances, practice in front of your mirror. Virtual performances do not carry the same energy as live performances. Increase your stage presence and reduce the chances of having a bad performance by putting in some work. Even great performers like Beyonce still get nervous before a big performance. So be patient with yourself.

Make this year full of intention. Using these tips will prepare every new artist for future opportunities. Know that 2022 is a year where you stop hiding and show your work. No one is exempt. Let go of excuses and use these tips, along with other great resources to maximize your music career. 

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