Five Wallet-Friendly Ways To Build Your Band's Fan Base

Every band’s dream is to hit the big time, but everyone has to start somewhere. If you’re just starting out, or have been plugging away for years, there are a number of ways in which you can build your fan base and help create a buzz around your band:

1) Local Gigs

Gigging in your local pubs, clubs and bars is a great way to start building a fan base. Make sure you play in venues that are associated with your specific niche in order to attract the right fan base for your band.
You should also look into being the support act for larger local bands as this is also a great way to get your name out there. As you grow in popularity, the bands you support will become more prominent which is another great way of growing your own fan base.

2) Social Media

Despite what you might have read, MySpace is still the best social media platform on which to promote your band. You can upload some tracks as well as interact with your fans and fellow musicians. In order to get the most of out of MySpace, you need to be active and post regularly.
You should also make the most of YouTube by uploading music videos, Q&A sessions and even some behind-the-scenes snapshots from the tour bus. It’s also a good idea to remain active on Twitter and Facebook as this can help you attract both local and nationwide fans.  

3) Promo Kits

Before venues will let you perform, or radio stations snap up your music, you may be asked for a promo kit. This should be exciting and reflect you as a band and should include: a demo CD, promotional images of members and a group shot, a detailed bio page and contact information.
A promo kit can also be given to fans in order to find out a more about who you are, so it’s a good idea to invest in one. Make sure you plug your USP’s and tell people why they should see you live and tell all their friends about you. 

4) Flyers and Posters

Flyers and posters are still a great way of getting your name out there and promoting your band. If you’re performing at a venue, ask them to have flyers to hand out and put posters up prior to the event so people are aware of your performance.
You can also contact local businesses and ask them to put up a flyer or poster as an extra way of getting your name out there. Street teams and fan clubs are also always on hand to give out flyers and put up posters so ask your social media followers to spread the word any way they can.

5) Merchandise

Once you’ve bagged that gig, it’s a good idea to sell branded merchandise such as t-shirts, hoodys and posters. Music lovers can never have too many band t-shirts – every music fan has got a Rolling Stones top in their wardrobe – so merchandise stands are always a winning strategy.
And once someone has brought and worn your top, it gets your band’s name out there. Just make sure the image is eye catching and wearable. You want to pack a punch with your merchandise and encourage more people to buy them.
It has never been easier to promote you band and build your fan base, no matter how big you are and what money you have. As long as it’s clear that you love what you’re doing, the fan base is guaranteed to follow.