I love that quote from Patrik Larsson at the “When Management Goes Label” panel. I think he was not only referring to the musician-manager relationship as well, but also the fan-musician relationship. The manager is going through as much shit as the band to get to the top. I’ve seen it first hand and every first-time manager will say the same thing. However, let me go over that fan-musician journey because not every band has a manager, but (hopefully) everyone has and wants more fans.
Being a fan of an unknown or up and coming band is exciting, so bands need to capitalize on that energy and passion. Street teams work well with the right people because word of mouth marketing is more effective than the band spamming random people. Also, it makes those select fans feel special and directly a part of your growth. However, don’t try to take advantage of the naivete or love of your music.
As the band grows, make sure you’re growing with the fans and show them your appreciation. Reply to their messages on MySpace, personally thank them in blogs and vlogs (note: if you can be mention a few people specifically, all the better), reply to their tweets, thank them in your newsletter, talk about them on stage at concerts, thank them in the linear notes of your albums…basically take them with you to the top.
A couple weeks ago, John Mayer announced that he was having an “intimate” show at Beacon Theatre where a majority of the audience would be members of his fan club. Regardless of whether it’s a private show, exclusive content, or advanced tickets, make your fans feel special and feel apart of your journey to rockstardom. After all, they’re the ones who helped you get there and will be paying your mortgage in a few years.
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