Where Are My Fans?! Tips on Increasing Your Fanbase and Digital Engagement for Independent Artists

Many artists struggle to build a fanbase. This fact can feel very layered. Many factors go into building a fanbase and fostering engagement. Especially as an independent artist, it’s very common not to know where to start. Some artists feel they are owed a fanbase solely for dropping music (this is not the case); some may only be able to focus on the actual creation of the art; and some may feel they need a team to do this successfully.

The reality is, engagement and fanbases are important, and it can be very beneficial to learn how to create them from scratch, especially when you are first starting out. In addition, it can also be a huge plus when fanbases are sought out by the artists themselves. Even if you deem your music to be good or you are already creating content, there is groundwork that needs to be set and repeatedly enforced in order to have a long-lasting impact, and it is simpler than you think. Here are some ways to successfully gain fans who will want to invest in you and stick with you for your whole career.

1. In-Person Events

Attending in-person events! This can be as simple as a dinner party, or even a local show or music conference. The key is to put yourself out there in a format where people can relate to you; it’s a plus if it’s in a very social setting.

In these environments, people are usually laid-back and having fun, making them more open to any type of information, especially talking about themselves. This is where you can segway to promoting your music (always carrying a business card with a QR code is a huge bonus!). This is a simple and effective way to promote yourself in a casual format in a way that has a long-lasting impact. If you are at a more music-focused event, such as a conference, asking artists/people about themselves is also an effective way to find commonalities and make people feel more connected to you. You also never know what someone does (and outside of what they could give to you, nothing feels better than developing a connection to someone who gives good vibes).

2. Find Your Niche

Find your niche. For example, if you are an indie pop artist, but perhaps you have a softer, girlier, perhaps coquettish feel. Perhaps you could incorporate a style similar to Lana Del Rey and include her in captions, perhaps wear flowy dresses in your promo, and use captions that relate to that community in your TikToks and reels. This way, you are narrowing down exactly what type of pop artist you are, and people have a reference of what your music could sound like, what it looks like, and what type of feeling you are trying to elicit from them. In addition, those existing fans of Lana Del Rey could gradually get into your music if you do this enough. I recommend posting at least four times a week, adhering to a niche. Even something like creating your own dance, you’d be surprised at how simple (and sometimes silly your content can be to make waves and inspire people.)

3. Digital Engagement and Content

This is arguably the most important. Things like using hashtags, responding to comments with words (not just a like), and posting casual/ relatable content (vlogs or GRWM, even a photo dump). You’d be surprised at how much this builds character for your audience. They are able to relate to you, and they even feel seen by you when you respond to comments. You are bringing yourself to their level, while also carving out your niche through things outside the music (perhaps your humor, responsiveness, following up, etc). You can really use this to your advantage and feel closer to your fans as a result.

LONG STORY SHORT: The issue is not that your fans don’t exist, it’s that they can’t find you or relate to you (yet!). Getting out there, finding your niche, and engaging/responding/using digital to be active are all effective ways to elevate engagement/gain fans if used consistently. Try out these tips, and you can make some fans for life.