Streaming transformed the way that people find and listen to music, and the industry has never been the same. How can fans keep up with the changes and help their favorite artists continue making great music? As an independent musician with 20 years of experience, Dan Avidan has adapted to the new relationship between artists and fans and has found success with new and established projects. From following your favorite band on TikTok to buying merchandise and exclusive content, here are four ways you can support your favorite indie artists.
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Tip Artists Whenever You Can
With numbers of streams replacing album sales, indie bands have lost a steady flow of income. Artists have adapted by creating content that they share with listeners on social media. Fans can now access stripped-down performances and behind-the-scenes footage from the comfort of their homes. With sites like TikTok introducing a tipping function, audiences can now support their favorite artists with direct payments.
Support Artists’ Side Projects
Many artists enjoy exploring their creativity with side projects and solo endeavors. If you have the same four songs on constant repeat, it’s time to expand your musical horizons. Stream your favorite band’s older albums, find out about the lead singer’s solo project, or listen to alternative bands formed by some of the members. Not only is this a great way to show support for indie artists, but you will also discover tons of new music.
Buy Merchandise
Before online shopping and international shipping, music lovers had to wait for a live gig and purchase t-shirts and sweaters from their favorite band’s merchandise table. Indie musicians still rely on the sale of merchandise as a stable source of income, and the process is much easier than in the past. Fans can buy items from impressive catalogs of branded gear, including mugs, blankets, apparel, pillows, and more. Rocking your favorite artist’s logo has never been simpler.
Engage with Independent Musicians on Social Media
It seems like there are not enough hours in a day to catch up on everything in your social media feed. However, independent artists can only thrive online when their fans take the time to interact and connect. Make sure you follow all your favorite musician’s social profiles, including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. You can also watch live streams and become a patron on sites like Patreon and Cameo. Every small action can help boost an artist’s position in the algorithm.
Independent artists can no longer count on CD sales and live shows to pay the bills. Yet, audiences are listening to more music than ever before. Fans are hungry for new music, but independent artists cannot survive on streams alone. To protect the artistic integrity and creative freedom of indie bands, music lovers have to find new ways to support their favorite artists. Use these four strategies to show some extra love to the musicians who brighten your everyday life. It may not seem like it makes a difference, but every fan counts. Indie artists can’t do it without you.
