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One thing remains constant despite all the different strategies out there: the importance of a strong presence on Spotify. With its vast user base and powerful algorithm, Spotify as a platform feels like a significant opportunity for artists to connect with their audience. But how to find that audience and transform it into a genuine fanbase? It's not an easy task, but we'll look into the approaches to organically boost your followers on Spotify.
Existing Network
Begin by tapping into your current fan base – and consider expanding it further. Share your Spotify profile engagingly across your social media platforms, mailing lists, and other online channels. Actively engage with your current followers, urging them to follow you on Spotify for more of your music. This can be done through direct appeals, sharing intriguing insights about Spotify's algorithm, highlighting its utility, or even in a light-hearted manner.
Tip: Sharing your profile in stories and periodically asking for follows using clickable buttons takes minimal effort and effectively serves as a reminder. Adding your recent music to these stories can provide an additional boost.
Tip 2: Don't shy out of boosting some of your social media posts. As little as 5 USD for a good, engaging post or reel can often grow your social media profile and possibly help with your artist profile, too.
Collaborations
Collaborative efforts introduce your music to fresh ears. Partner with artists who share a similar fan base, increasing the likelihood of gaining followers who resonate with your sound.
Optimize Your Artist Profile
Craft a compelling artist bio that reflects your brand's uniqueness. Incorporate high-quality images (avoid using multiple shots from the same session) and links to your social media profiles. Ensure your profile aligns accurately with your brand and personality, particularly if you're still establishing your presence.
Embrace Spotify for Artists' Features
Use the array of tools Spotify offers artists to the fullest. Leverage features like Canvas (short looping videos) to measure engagement with your releases while boosting their appeal at the same time. Take advantage of your Artist Pick to promote recent releases or upcoming gig dates – and don't forget to include an eye-catching image. If applicable, connect your merch to your Spotify profile, too. Make the most of your Spotify for Artists options, as these seemingly minor details can project a much more accomplished image.
Pre-save Campaigns
If your distributor provides a pre-save link option, or you can create one elsewhere, make sure to use this feature and share it across your social media platforms before every release. Consider boosting it with ads as well. Why? When people pre-save your song, they'll automatically "like" (heart) it, signaling positive engagement to Spotify's algorithms. But there's more to it. Pre-saves also trigger automatic follows for the artist, potentially increasing your follower count (if they weren't following you already).
Radio
Yes, radio exposure can yield unexpected results – even in this modern era! Radio is proven to result in Shazams and overall interest in one's music and profile. Pursue opportunities to pitch your music to radio stations (starting locally is advisable). Doing so can offer additional exposure and potentially attract new followers.
Live Shows
Much like radio features, live performances enable you to forge different and much more personal connections with fans. Live shows foster a unique bond that few other activities can replicate. Your performance and personality on stage can effectively drive listeners to your Spotify profile, effectively boosting your follower count.
Photo credit: Henko Bogaards
Consistent Release Strategy
If possible, maintaining a consistent release schedule = regularly dropping new tracks keeps your profile dynamic and followers engaged. It also makes you try more – share content on your socials more often and more regularly, pitch to curators and radio stations, and find new ways of getting yourself out there.
Tip: Capitalize on the pre-save feature to generate anticipation ahead of each release and boost that listen-to-save ratio that helps your algorithmic success = ultimately, reaching more people (and potential followers).
Playlisting
Strategic playlisting pays off even in terms of gaining new followers. Pitch your tracks to relevant playlisters and even consider creating and promoting your own playlists featuring your music as well as music that influenced it. More exposure and context for your songs not only boosts your algorithm's effectiveness but also enhances exposure and the potential for new followers.
Networking
Networking with industry professionals and fellow artists can lead to exciting results. Exchange follows with individuals closely aligned with your music, explore new connections for sharing your work, and seek feedback or advice. Genuine networking endeavors introduce your music to new circles, fresh opportunities, and potential followers.
Tip: Try our #networking chatroom, give and seek feedback through Hot or Not, and ask for opinions in the right subreddits.
Patience and Persistence
Growing your follower count takes time, so approach it with patience and persistence. A handful of attempts won't necessarily yield significant results. The key is consistent and regular engagement without becoming disheartened. Persistent promotional strategies will ultimately yield results, although it may take a longer time.
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Increasing your Spotify followers organically requires patience and consistent effort. It won't happen overnight, nor can it be bought. In fact, artificially inflating your numbers can lead to skewed recommendations and confusion within Spotify's algorithm. By actively engaging, networking, collaborating, consistently releasing new material, and refining your craft while staying true to your musical identity, you can steadily cultivate a dedicated fan base that genuinely resonates with your art.
Seriously – even if the numbers feel important, it's not all about the metrics – it's about meaningful relationships with your listeners and teaching the Spotify algorithm to place you correctly.