Inside Sleeve

I feel you under my skin, moonlight touches my lips.

Caroline Polacheck’s “Sunset” totally captures our feels right now, hitting our first milestone of 100 newsletter subscribers! As we build a platform that truly gets musicians and fans, your support is everything.

Most music tech platforms aren’t designed by musicians. That’s our edge. We’re all about making something that’s artist-first. And I’m not just talking about me – I mean all of you. Whether you're a musician, a music biz pro, or just a music lover, you obviously care about music. Our mission? To bring artists and fans together. That is why we are growing this community. Knowing and connecting with the music community is key to creating what artists and fans need.

The music world is obsessed with TikTok and its 60-second craze. Faster, smarter, shorter, dumber… This can kill creativity and make us lose sight of what really matters – the music and the fans.

Forget chasing endless streams or playlist spots that might not turn into loyal fans. There’s a better way: focus on your true supporters. Maybe you’ve got 25 or 100 die-hard fans now. How can you deepen those connections and build up to 1,000?

Kevin Kelly’s advice about your 1,000 True Fans is pure gold. Instead of millions of followers, nurture 1,000 true fans – folks who are genuinely into your work. Here’s how:

Get to Know Them

Think of your favorite local café where everyone knows your name. That’s the vibe you want for your fans. Be consistent and make them feel seen and valued.

Be a Bit Exclusive

We all want what we can’t have. Don’t give everything away for free. Create exclusive content for your true supporters. Historian Yuval Noah Harari says luxuries become necessities and spawn new obligations. Let’s keep music a luxury. Offer early releases, special tracks, or limited merch – even stuff you’ve already dropped but didn’t get enough love.

Find Your Side Hustles

I know someone who sells re-dyed old shirts at shows and makes a killing. People want to pay for more than just music. Explore other revenue options or bundle your music in cool ways.

Build a Community

We’re all social creatures looking for connection. Music can fill that gap and make people feel like they belong. How can you help your listeners connect with each other through your music?

Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a quick-start guide:

  • Spot Your True Fans: Look at who’s super engaged – those who comment, share, and show up.
  • Make a Plan: Figure out what exclusive content and experiences you can offer. Plan it out so you’re not running in circles.
  • Take Action and Adapt: Start small, get feedback, and tweak as you go.

You don’t need to please everyone. Focus on those who truly love your music and will support you.

Random Reflections

Hope’s out there! “Every breakthrough requires a strong sense of optimism.” Kevin Kelly’s TED Talk on protopia – the belief that the world gets a bit better every day – is a great watch if you need a pick-me-up.

Stay tuned,
Anna

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