Even with the thousands and millions of TikToks and reels, making viral videos isn't as easy as it may seem. This is especially true for musicians who may not feel inclined to dance in front of their smartphones. Nonetheless, leveraging video content can greatly benefit you if it's even remotely feasible for you – from music promotion to enhancing your brand as a musician.
Why Video Content Matters
Video content offers a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, creativity, and talent in ways that other mediums simply can't match. Unlike static images or text-based posts, videos allow you to bring your persona and music to life and forge new connections with your audience.
The beauty of video content lies in its engagement. It grabs attention, sparks emotions, and allows you to build a deeper connection with your audience. And it's achievable for anyone – the key is to find your comfort zone and only do what you feel like (but do it!).
Here are some creative video content ideas to get you started, regardless of your style or level of shyness:
Behind the scenes
When showing behind-the-scenes footage, you don't even have to be on camera (just behind it). Share snippets of your creative process – songwriting, rehearsing, recording in the studio, or even the funny fails that happen along the way. Use a first-person view and perhaps add some commentary, either during the video or as a voice-over. Et voilà! Just be authentic and cut out anything you didn't find interesting afterward.
Q&As
You can ask a friend, whether in real life or during a video call, to pose some unusual questions to you. This can be even more fun if you are not ready/don't know what they're going to ask.
Alternatively, turn the tables and ask your audience what they're curious about, then answer their questions in a short video (can be multiple videos, even). This is a simple way to directly engage with your fans and address their interests.
Skill sharing
Do you know any guitar hacks or self-taught moves? Or perhaps you have some special techniques for mixing? A cool way to come up with harmonies? There must be numerous things you do your way, and these can be turned into content. Simply record any of these small skills and hacks in a short tutorial or video tip. Not only might you help someone, but you also present yourself in a way that feels professional yet accessible (and if you don't take it too seriously, it can also be really fun).
Simple & (maybe) acoustic
You just want to focus on music? Then go for it – just leave the camera on! Treat your fans to a simplified performance and record a raw(-ish) acoustic version of one of your original songs. Or choose a song (or a few) you love and create a bedroom-style cover. This is an excellent way to showcase your talent and taste while also being authentic and intimate. It doesn't even need to be perfect, just has to be... you.
There's life beyond the music
Don't be afraid to reveal your human, non-musician side. Share snippets of your daily routine, or perhaps your favorite hobbies (weightlifting champion, anyone?), footage of your pet(s)... or anything else that gives your fans a glimpse into your life beyond music. Building connections through personal moments, not just promoting your music, can truly make a difference.
Collaborations
Collaborating with another artist? Document the process. And if not, consider creating duets, mashups, or split-screen performances. Reach out to a musician friend (they might find the additional content valuable, too), ask the audience to sing with you, or find a fun way to work with or add to the content of a musician you follow or admire.
Throwbacks/recycling
Dust off those old performance videos or milestone moments and reintroduce them in a new context. Perhaps it's been a year since your song hit 10k streams, and now it's at 40k. Share this growth with a cool commentary. Or maybe it's been six months since you opened for a cool band. Reflect on this experience and share any memorable moments you haven't mentioned before. It's a great way to share and remind of your journey.
Reactions and responses
The social media world thrives on interaction, and even more so within the music niche. If you're lacking inspiration at the moment, consider reacting to other musicians' content: posts, videos, covers, or new releases... Comment on their new track using a green screen, try replicating their song with your unique twist. Another option is to give a shoutout to someone you discovered while sharing why they speak to you. Just share what you actually think or feel, no need to make stuff up.
Lyrically speaking
Camera shy? No problem! You can still leverage the power of lyric videos. With each new release, or as a reminder of an older song, create and share simple lyric videos in a vertical format. Let your music do the talking and engage your audience visually with your lyrics.
There are plenty of other ways to create simple yet effective video content for social media. The golden rule? Keep it short, sweet, and true to yourself. Focus on what feels natural and fun, as anything else won't feel genuine. When you're passionate and enjoying the process, it shows, and your audience will connect with that authenticity. The best part? All you need is your smartphone.