In a recent local tv show where Bebecool a popular artist in the Ugandan local music industry was hosted he advised artists with the will to break through and become globally recognised to first put emphasis on the local fan base before exporting their content abroad. He strengthened his argument over the fact that him and other prosperous musicians like Bobiwine actually made a lot of money from shows all over the country because they were accepted in even deeper villages they didn’t know they would reach.
While joining the local music industry most people are attracted by the fame and glamour it bares but don’t have it in mind how much work a successful artist goes through especially once they become a global export like Eddy Kenzo for example. Imagine showing up on stage for a performance, and unfortunately, the audience remains ‘cold’ and dull, with no cheer or even worse, they start booing you or showing empty pet bottles your way.
These are situations musicians have to put up with, especially when an upcoming artiste yet to make an impression on listeners.
It is stressful, especially when reflecting on the sleepless nights spent during making of the song or even reharsals. For many, dreams are cut short while others find luck.
Without a doubt there is no particular formula to breaking through but it is a must for every artiste to focus on building and boosting their fan base to grow career wise. We discuss some practical ways an artist can build their audience locally.
Artists under music labels that have money to invest in talent are more likely to doing good music that excites people and compels them to dance is a sure way to win hearts and minds.
As a musician they ought to listen to his or her work and relate to it or know if it suits their general audience or target market and that is already a pass to gain enthusiasts.
Aside from the music produced other factors to get loyal following include building one’s public image by avoiding grudges or petty fights with competitors, and staying away from controversy or scandal. This is very important for the integrity of an artiste. Discipline matters a lot.
The emergency of social media and other online platforms is key these days. Through the likes of YouTube, TikTok an artiste can win supporters as it is very much a ‘music library’, where anyone can access the songs they are interested in or what they relate with. The beauty about this platform is that it is borderless.
This kind of promotion is the best way to sell and expose a musician to the public, by playing their songs on radio, television, and other public platforms. That way, new talent is discovered.
Further more its less costly with online advertising once an artist has content. For example It’s free to open up an account on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Sound Cloud, and invite friends to like and follow your page and request the and also call upon friends to like and follow the pages. With time, an artist has a consistent following.
However, it is essential to use these platforms with care. One should post information that is useful and appropriate to both the artiste and the fans, and avoid any conversations or material that could outrage fans or ruin the reputation of a musician.
Also note that one should create consistent content because the more one posts, the more followers they are likely to get. Such content may involve engaging imagery, and relevant hashtags. Keep fans and followers updated about ones shows, events, and daily life through uploading videos and photos as it keeps them feeling like a part of you.
Apart from that, working hard and producing more music, good music, is also another simple way of winning a fan base.
The fan base is also boosted through having a positive public image and getting connected to the press, or media for good public exposure.
Creating a target market that one knows about and capitalising on their talent easily wins fans. This involves choosing what genre of music one ought to be known of.
