Earlier in the week, we posted a thought-provoking question to our social media channels that’s worth talking about:
Would you rather have 1,000 loyal superfans on your email list, or 100K Instagram followers with low engagement?
It sparked an interesting conversation—and for good reason. In today’s algorithm-obsessed world, many indie artists and creatives get caught up chasing numbers. But here’s the truth: Make-believe numbers don’t build careers. Relationships do.
So if you’re an artist, producer, manager, or music entrepreneur, know that your audience isn’t just a number—they’re your community. Your tribe. Your people. And when you treat them like they matter, they’ll show up for you in ways you can’t buy with followers.
But how do you show up for them the way they show up for you? Well, let’s show you how to start treating your audience like the loyal supporters they are today.
Speak To Them, Not At Them.
Your content, whether on social media, in emails, or during live shows, should feel like a conversation, not a broadcast. Ask questions. Invite input. Share stories that show your personality and values.
📌 Pro-Tip: Instead of just posting “New single out now,” share a behind-the-scenes moment, what the song means to you, or ask your followers what it reminds them of.
Show Up Consistently, Especially Where It Counts.
If someone trusts you enough to follow you, check out your website, or join your email list, don’t ghost them. If they engage with your posts or come to your shows, let them know you see them. Remember that consistency produces familiarity, and familiarity builds trust. Once you have the trust of your audience and fans, you’ll have a loyal fan base ready and willing to rock with you for life.
📌 Pro-Tip: Start a simple monthly newsletter. Nothing fancy—just real updates, personal reflections, or exclusive content you don’t share on social media.
Reward Loyalty.
Your biggest fans aren’t the ones who only stream your music. They go above and beyond by telling their people, buying your merch, and defending you in the comments when necessary. Find ways to thank them and make them feel like insiders, rather than maintaining a one-sided relationship.
📌 Pro-Tip: Offer early access to music, discount codes, or a private listening session. Even a personal thank-you message can go a long way for someone who supports your vision and mission.
Listen, Don’t Just Promote.
Promotion is important, but listening is more important. What’s your audience excited about? What are they struggling with? What kind of content makes them stop scrolling and lean in? Start paying attention to what they tell you on your platforms and pages so they can be seen and heard by you at all times.
📌 Pro-Tip: Use polls and Q&As to gather ideas, test out new directions, or hear what your community cares about.
Build For The Few, Not The Many.
Here’s our thoughts on the earlier question: 1,000 true fans who care about you are more powerful than 100,000+ followers who forget your name five minutes after scrolling past your post. Real connections create real conversions, so consider shifting your perspective on this topic to produce lasting and real results in the long term.
📌 Pro-Tip: Focus your time and energy on nurturing your most engaged audience group, especially email subscribers, private community members, or repeat listeners.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a massive following to succeed in the music industry. All you need is meaningful relationships. Treat your audience like your people, and they’ll treat you like theirs for a lifetime.
At NOLA MusiCon, this philosophy is at the heart of what we do. We’re not only building an event, but we’re also building a community of artists, professionals, and creatives who value connection over clout.
Don’t miss out on conversations like these that will change your life and music career! Join us October 28-30 and learn how to grow a music career rooted in authenticity, community, and longevity.
