How to Get Your Music Heard- A Beginner's Marketing Guide

In today’s music world, talent is essential—but it’s not enough. With over 100,000 new tracks uploaded to streaming platforms daily, getting your music noticed requires smart, intentional marketing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow an existing fanbase, this beginner’s guide gives you practical strategies to market your music and reach listeners who’ll love what you create.

1. Build Your Online Presence

Your digital footprint is the first thing potential fans will encounter—make it count.

Start With:

• Artist profiles on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and SoundCloud
• Consistent branding: same profile photo, bio, and links across platforms
• Personal touch: share your journey, influences, and behind-the-scenes moments

Be Active on:

• TikTok for viral clips and hooks (The Impact of TikTok on the Music Industry)
• Instagram Reels and Stories to maintain visibility
• YouTube Shorts for quick previews and behind-the-scenes content

🔗 Pro tip: Link all your profiles using a free landing page tool like Linktree or Carrd so fans can find everything in one place.

2. Distribute Your Music Everywhere

Don't restrict your music to a single platform. Use digital distribution services to expand your reach:

• DistroKid
• TuneCore
• CD Baby
• Amuse (offers a free tier)

These platforms help you get onto:

• Spotify
• Apple Music
• Amazon Music
• Deezer
• TikTok Sound Library
• YouTube Music

Read: Music Distribution Explained – Getting Your Music on Spotify and Apple Music

3. Use Social Media Marketing Wisely

Social media isn’t just about “posting” anymore—it's about storytelling and building a fan community.

Try:

• Sharing your songwriting or recording process
• Asking for feedback on new material
• Running polls about upcoming releases
• Creating “duet-able” or “remix-able” content for TikTok

Want to go further? Use targeted ads on:

• Facebook/Instagram Ads Manager
• YouTube pre-roll ads
• TikTok’s Creator Marketplace

Explore: How Artists Are Giving Away Music for Free — and Why It Matters

4. Collaborate to Expand Your Reach

Collaboration opens doors to new audiences.

Ways to Collaborate:

• Guest verses or features
• Co-produced remixes
• Joint live sessions on Instagram or YouTube
• Split EPs with complementary artists

Tip: Tag each other in every post, cross-share content, and co-host Q&A or fan contests to maximize exposure.

5. Use Playlists as Discovery Tools

Playlists are today’s digital radio—and they're one of the most powerful discovery tools.

How to Get Featured:

• Use Spotify for Artists to submit unreleased tracks to editorial playlists

• Pitch to independent curators on platforms like:

• SubmitHub
• Groover
• Daily Playlists

• Create your own curated playlists mixing your tracks with similar artists to drive traffic

Related: Digital Audio Workstations Explained – Choosing the Right Software

6. Perform Live—Both Online and In Person

Performing live gives fans a chance to connect with you emotionally—and that connection drives loyalty.

Try:

• Instagram Live jam sessions
• Twitch concerts for gaming/music crossover fans
• Busking or small venue gigs in your local area
• Participating in open mic nights, both in-person and virtual

Also read: The Importance of Proper Posture and Ergonomics for Musicians

7. Engage with Your Fans (Not Just Followers)

Don’t chase “likes”—build relationships.

How to Keep Fans Coming Back:

• Respond to DMs and comments
• Host fan Q&A sessions
• Feature fan content (like covers or duets)
• Send out a monthly newsletter or offer early access to new tracks

Bonus: Offer free downloads or exclusive demos through email sign-ups

Try: Free Royalty-Free Track Offers

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a label or a huge budget to get your music heard. What you do need is patience, consistency, and creativity. Focus on building your brand, nurturing your audience, and getting your music out across multiple channels.

Want even more support?

• Book a Free 15-Minute Music Production Consultation
• Try Our AI Music Generator

“Don’t just release music—build a movement around it.”