As technologies have increased, the digital business environment has begun to play a significant role in the music industry. This change to a digital format has an effect on various aspects of the business such as marketing and distribution. However, many believe that product development still remains a primary component of artist branding.

With the increase in digital uses, A & R depends heavily on the ability of the artist to create a brand whilst still concentrating on the music quality. In today’s world, music alone won’t cut it in the business so artists need to ensure they have a visual identity to their music.

Here are 5 steps that can help you brand yourself:

1. Audience is more dispersed

In the past business analysis would base the success of the artist by reviewing related cash transactions rather than consider facets such as social relationships. Therefore, it is vital to understand that communication through networks can limit the various types of music. This mass communication means that media is actually less mass-oriented.

It is for this reason that in order to connect with fans one must create a message that is universally understood. In essence, this is what would be considered your brand and you will need to build on it.

2. People link to brands that they can relate to

The introduction of additional artist through the use of digital technology means that people have hundreds of choices to find artists with a brand they can relate to. Therefore, as an artist you must create a sound that has value to the listener and this is especially true in the emotional sense.

With the freedom to choose music, people are going to follow the social signifiers, because they want to find ones that signify themselves. It is not only the music that fans listen to but they also want to embrace the brand as well.

3. Emotion can generate unwavering loyalty

It is important to make music that fans can themselves be a part of emotionally. This will help them spread the word about the music that you are making and this leads to an expanded fan base.

If you were to consider the power that bands with real messages have, then you will notice that these bands gain steady amounts of fans because their listeners and followers believe they are actually going to change something.

4. Link your identity to every facet of your music

The different topics relating to this theory include:

• Rhythm, Chords, Lyrics
• Videos, Marketing
• Images, Cover Art
• Collaborative Events, Distribution
• Attire, Live Shows

Take these bullet points and try to form a real message from them and make it one that will have an impact on the world as a whole, so that others will be able to embrace this change. By taking these steps into consideration, you will be a permanent fixture in the minds of fans.

5. Music really matters

While there is no doubt that branding is very important for a musician, it is not as important as the music. Therefore, it is best to focus on making the best music possible and then move to the branding phase.

If you do not adhere to this ideology, then there is a chance that the branding will be useless, seeing as the people may not enjoy the music and will not care about your brand.