Marketing & Business

In our article about contracts for musicians, we already touched on it: the technical rider. This is a document that lists all the ‘technical specifications’ of a band. There are many versions in circulation, varying greatly in quality. With a good rider, the on-site engineer knows exactly what to expect. What should a technical rider include? And what’s the difference between a technical rider and a hospitality rider?

One of the most challenging stages of making your own music video is the edit. This is the moment you take the footage you’ve worked so hard on and start shaping it into an impressive music video. It’s a tough job, but the end result can be stunning — and a real calling card for your band. You can make the process easier by following the step-by-step plan in this article!

Is it time to bring in an image consultant? Or do you not need one as a musician? One thing is certain: a meal in a restaurant can taste amazing, but if the presentation isn’t appealing, it feels less appetising. The same goes for musicians and bands. Image and identity matter. It’s an extra form of expression, adds a new dimension to your band and your music, and above all, it makes you recognisable.

Managers: are they even still a thing in the music industry? And what exactly is their role? But just as important: what is the artist’s role? A lot of artists and bands don’t know when the right time is to start working with a manager. Usually, they still need to practise much harder and gig more often before it makes sense to bring in management. On top of that, musicians often jump in far too quickly when they’re approached. Manager and lecturer Martijn Crama shares his advice!

Playing on This Morning, in the BBC Radio 1 studio, or as the support act for a well-known artist? As an ambitious artist, you’d never say no to that. But sometimes you actually should, advises guest blogger Jim Kreeftenberg, aka De Muziekindustriecoach. Because your gig might unintentionally attract the ‘wrong’ audience. With these six questions, you’ll work out who your target audience is and how to reach that ideal fan.

The secret to making an impressive music video that delivers the impact you want always lies in a good script. While you definitely want to take up all the creative space while writing your script, it’s best not to go too crazy, because an overcomplicated and overambitious script can result in an overblown budget. So how do you write a script that won’t break the bank but still brings the vibe?

Wouldn’t it be great if you could generate a predictable monthly income with your music? With a subscription-based business model where fans support you in exchange for special perks, you could do just that. Guest-blogger and musician Mirjam Sieben is here to tell you how it works.

Struggling to reach potential fans or need a new way to guarantee income because you can’t play gigs for a while? Whether you’re a musician, DJ or producer, you can use what’s known as a marketing funnel to gain fans and make more money. Guest-blogger and musician Mirjam Sieben from Onlightning is here to explain the 5-step process.

Guest blogger Iris Siemons is a songwriter and vocalist who recently released her debut EP, but becoming a self-sufficient full-time musician was a long journey, and during that journey, she picked up a few nuggets of wisdom and even founded a musical collective in her home town. Having spent years immersing herself in study, including a course in how to become an entrepreneur, Iris has finally come to a point where she can confidently answer the question: “How can I become a professional musician?” Here she offers five must-do’s for the pro-musician in training.

If you’re still not on TikTok at this point, you’re definitely missing out. Thankfully, guest-blogger and social media expert Jim Kreeftenberg is here to give you six smart tips that can help you grow your online following.

While it can take days, weeks and even months to record, mix and master your self-penned songs, your work actually isn’t done when it’s finally ready for release. After all, you still need to make sure that people can find and listen to your music. Digital marketing expert Jamie is here to tell you how content marketing can help you achieve your goals.

Struggling to expand your fanbase and have no idea what you need to be posting on Facebook and Instagram? Of course, you want more likes, more exposure and more gigs. You want your music to be pulling more attention, and you know that, to get that attention, you need to be more visible. But how?! The answer is ‘positioning’. Here, guest-blogger and musician Mirjam Sieben reveals the tips she used to help out the band Stompin’ Grounds.