New Music Poll, please take some time to answer!

[rrobbone]

In the interest of attempting to die without leaving anything on the table (I wish to have as few regrets as possible at life's end), I'm considering the best way to finally take a serious shot at releasing some music of my own. As you well know, the climate for new artists and how they are found and followed is changing by the minute. I thought it would spark an interesting discussion to ask you good folks a few questions about where you seek new music. Please copy, paste, and answer. Feel free to add anything you like. I'll be taking your answers into consideration once I start to develop a strategy for how to promote and market. Thanks for helping out!

Please note: none of the answers for the following questions involves bikinis, breasts, thighs, legs, or batting eyes. I don't have those assets, so I can't utilize them - despite their well known effectiveness in the world of marketing. We regret any inconvenience this may cause - MGMT.



How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?



All this is assuming the music is of studio quality and constructed with an eye towards a commercially intended release. The near term goals are to write and release solid music to the streaming channels, then build a small fanbase to interact with and eventually monetize enough to make this endeavor my main source of income. I don't believe any of our normal contributors here would shit on this desire, but just in case: I would prefer any negative or otherwise discouraging comments be kept constructive.

I want to be the next AGF Idol, following in the footsteps of such luminaries as former member Keith Merrow.

I'd really love to hear your opinions, thoughts, and anything else you'd like to say about the subject. I'm convinced that I have to take a dedicated shot at this, or I'll never be able to forgive myself. Your thoughtful input is very much appreciated. I'm hoping this gets some really good conversation going.

[uwmcscott]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?
Word of mouth ( virtual or in person ) or places places like AGF where people post/share new music
I traditionally have done quite a bit of driving for work and am starting to now again and I find a lot of things that are new to me via Sirius
I also go on late night you-tube music adventures and sometimes the suggested content brings up a new band I've never hear dof

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?
Amazon music and sirius

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?
Not much at all other than a couple of favorites

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?
Linkedin for work related stuff and some Facebook too

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?
I"m not really interested in their personal lives

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?
See answer above

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?
One of my favorite Artists - Monte Montgomery - has been hosting virtual concerts every saturday night in his home over the past couple months. I've been tipping via paypay every time I watch. He's using facebook stream and it's fun to see others comments too, his girlfriend mans the chat and runs the video and he takes requests/answers questions via the chat. He's done streams via other sponsors before ( NumberJuan Tequila for one ) but has gotten much better response on his private streams. I'd say there's roughly 200-250 people watching every week.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?
Sharing live music directly even in a virtual manner is great. Kind of gives you the small club feel from your living room.

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?
The music itself is the main draw, but interesting dialoge is good too. The whole "in your face/reality show" feel is a big turn-off for me, but seeing a musician or band genuinely share is cool. Like those rig run-down vids or things of that nature.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?
In the aforementioned Monte scenario, he sends udates via facebook feeds.

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?
Be genuine and make good music

[dearlpitts]

i really dont seek new music out, but if i happen to hear from someone or something that there is something new thats good. ii,ll check it out.
you tube, radio, concerts,gigs,word of mouth.

[sabasgr68]

I may not be a good reference, but for what it´s worth, I wanted to participate.


How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

I stopped seeking for new artists - really, no good music for me from a good while, so I stopped seeking -. But sometimes they found me on tweeter, when someone I follow posts something about a new artist/band, and I check them out. So, Tweeter for me, and here on AGF when someones does the same.


What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

Given our internet conditions and/or restrictions, I don´t really listen to streaming platforms. Maybe Youtube?


How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

Not so close, but I ocassionally check on them to know about new music, works, etc.


What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

As mentioned, Tweeter and Youtube.


How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

Somewhat. They are persons, and before they were famous, they were just the boy/girl next door, the neighbour of someone, they walked their dogs, rode a bike, whatever. If I like someone´s music, I´d like to know a little about him.


What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

Their beginnings, their spiritual beliefs, their other interests, but most importantly, that they have not stopped from being persons - with family, spouse, etc. -.


How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?


Maybe having some early access to new material, but really, as they - for me - are really just persons, not deities, I´d support them even if I don´t have any especial treatment or anything, just to support their work.


Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Being honest and true, and doing an honest work - music in this case -. Staying on the ground, and caring for their fans/supporters.


Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

It has to be good music, music I like. Lyrics that actually say something. Good performing. Longer than usual intros, solos, and outros - not necessarily guitar oriented only -.


If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

Letting fans know on social media, and having great performances - meaning, not needing back tracks to sound well -.


What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?

Again, making good music - the music I liked them for -, being honest and true. If they have social media accounts - tweeter, facebook, instagram, whatever -, is important that they do interact with their fans. Give at least a "like" to the comments - or have someone else do it for you, but don´t ignore them -. And staying away from drugs and alcohol and weird behavior. Again, being a person. Being an example for his sons and family. It´s not that hard.

[rrobbone]

The music itself is the main draw, but interesting dialoge is good too. The whole "in your face/reality show" feel is a big turn-off for me, but seeing a musician or band genuinely share is cool. Like those rig run-down vids or things of that nature.


Be genuine and make good music

So you appreciate live performance and an interactive "over the shoulder" type of look into what Monte's up to... That's good info, and it jibes right along with what I've been reading and seeing in several discussions.

Of course the music has to be excellent to be discovered and followed. I'm fairly certain that I don't suck, but whether or not anyone will like what I'm doing is another matter and remains to be seen. There's a certain following for the genre and I need to research how to reach them specifically.

Being genuine as you mentioned also seems to be rather important as it's mentioned quite a bit, and that's going to be a little difficult for me to do - at least at first. I've become a bit of an introvert, and a step like that invites everyone into my personal little world. I've spent a lot of time setting up my life to avoid people (who aren't family) to a large extent. When my wife first suggested a move to her home state so she could be near her family, my first thought was, "nobody knows me there." While that would be a negative to most, I was actually thrilled at the thought.

Guess it's time to work on thickening the skin again.

Thanks for taking the time, I appreciate it.

[rrobbone]

i really dont seek new music out, but if i happen to hear from someone or something that there is something new thats good. ii,ll check it out.
you tube, radio, concerts,gigs,word of mouth.

OK, that's good info, thank you.

[rrobbone]

I may not be a good reference, but for what it´s worth, I wanted to participate.


How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

I stopped seeking for new artists - really, no good music for me from a good while, so I stopped seeking -. But sometimes they found me on tweeter, when someone I follow posts something about a new artist/band, and I check them out. So, Tweeter for me, and here on AGF when someones does the same.


What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

Given our internet conditions and/or restrictions, I don´t really listen to streaming platforms. Maybe Youtube?


How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

Not so close, but I ocassionally check on them to know about new music, works, etc.


What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

As mentioned, Tweeter and Youtube.


How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

Somewhat. They are persons, and before they were famous, they were just the boy/girl next door, the neighbour of someone, they walked their dogs, rode a bike, whatever. If I like someone´s music, I´d like to know a little about him.


What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

Their beginnings, their spiritual beliefs, their other interests, but most importantly, that they have not stopped from being persons - with family, spouse, etc. -.


How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?


Maybe having some early access to new material, but really, as they - for me - are really just persons, not deities, I´d support them even if I don´t have any especial treatment or anything, just to support their work.


Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Being honest and true, and doing an honest work - music in this case -. Staying on the ground, and caring for their fans/supporters.


Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

It has to be good music, music I like. Lyrics that actually say something. Good performing. Longer than usual intros, solos, and outros - not necessarily guitar oriented only -.


If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

Letting fans know on social media, and having great performances - meaning, not needing back tracks to sound well -.


What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?

Again, making good music - the music I liked them for -, being honest and true. If they have social media accounts - tweeter, facebook, instagram, whatever -, is important that they do interact with their fans. Give at least a "like" to the comments - or have someone else do it for you, but don´t ignore them -. And staying away from drugs and alcohol and weird behavior. Again, being a person. Being an example for his sons and family. It´s not that hard.

The qualities you value are humility and honesty, and you enjoy a certain level of access from an artist (or at least you appreciate when they make an effort to include fans).

"Letting fans know on social media, and having great performances - meaning, not needing back tracks to sound well -."

I agree with this completely. If a stripped down version of a song no longer works the same as it does with full instrumentation, it still needs work. I write everything as a stripped down version first, via keys or guitar. It's one of the only rules I place on myself, as I do a lot of electronic instrumentation and this helps me to flesh out solid songs instead of wasting effort trying to shine up a turd.

Thanks for responding!

[zisme]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

pretty much daily. i listen to music and podcasts all day during the work week (and in the car). i enjoy making playlists that mix a fair amount of artists i know and enjoy with new (to me) artists. i've come up with several different "systems" over the years to accomplish this. most recently i've started using this nifty website to find similar artists to whoever i happen to be listening to https://www.music-map.com

i've also been tuning in to the KEXP youtube channel fairly regularly for a while now. I do enjoy watching/listening to well produced in-studio performances or well-captured live performances

i do still get introduced to artists through word of mouth - though it's usually me making suggestions to others

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

Spotify. It used to be Google Play Music, until Google torpedoed it to make way for Youtube Music. I had a premium subscription to Youtube Music when it launched and did not like the interface/lack of features. I don't know if it has improved since...

I do watch a lot of live performances on youtube

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

My instagram and facebook feeds are mostly music and guitar related. i follow a lot of my favorite bands/artists. it's typically how I keep up with new releases, tour dates, etc.

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

Lately, Instagram. I usually peruse my feed a handful of times throughout the day. It's much easier to personalize/manage and far less toxic and convoluted than facebook - which i try to spend less and less time on. I've avoided twitter thus far.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

My gut response is: Not very. Though I do follow individual artists who do share varying degrees of information about their personal lives.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

Nothing in particular comes to mind outside of music related topics.

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

I'm always on the lookout for vinyl releases. That's really the only music medium I purchase these days outside of my Spotify subscription. Under normal circumstances, I do make an effort to get out and see a few shows every year. I'm most likely to be alerted to a show date by a social media post, as I don't often remember to check individual venue schedules. Merch is tougher. I have an entire drawer dedicated to black band t-shirts, so I've slowed down on those. But hey if the design is cool enough, I may still decide I need it. I have even coughed up for a couple of zip hoodies.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Good music first. Good live show second. I may be misunderstanding the question?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

If I discover the music first and it piques my interest enough, i'm most likely to jump on youtube and look for live footage, interviews, gear discussions, documentary type stuff. If I'm still interested after that I may start following on social media, checking out merch, looking for tour dates, etc. I'm ALWAYS interested in seeing what gear people are using.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

My only suggestion here would just be to make sure it's available, or at least announced on whatever social media outlets they are using (I'd recommend having a youtube channel for such things). that's likely the only way i'll see them/tune in.

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?

The music obviously has to be the focus. Sometimes a single release is enough to capture my attention for any length of time. Staying visibly active is certainly a good way to keep my attention - but within reason. I'm pretty quick to be turned off by multiple posts a day from the same account - it can start to feel like spam. There's a lot of stuff on my feed for me to keep up with, and if it seems like you're hogging it - I'm likely to unfollow. I would also suggest staying on target/topic. Keep personal, political, etc. discussions to individual accounts.

Hope that helps! Good luck

[uwmcscott]

Being genuine as you mentioned also seems to be rather important as it's mentioned quite a bit, and that's going to be a little difficult for me to do - at least at first. I've become a bit of an introvert, and a step like that invites everyone into my personal little world. I've spent a lot of time setting up my life to avoid people (who aren't family) to a large extent. When my wife first suggested a move to her home state so she could be near her family, my first thought was, "nobody knows me there." While that would be a negative to most, I was actually thrilled at the thought.

Guess it's time to work on thickening the skin again.

Thanks for taking the time, I appreciate it.

While i'm not trying to start a music business, I did recently just go through a job layoff and had to basically start all over after a 20 year career. It was a "comfortable" position as I worked mostly remotely, and I knew my job very well so I could do it almost in my sleep.

The most troubling part of the whole ordeal was "thickening my skin" and also being willing to sell myself in the job search process. It's such a different world now and you basically do have to literally treat your career like you are trying to sell a used car - list all your features on linikedin and polish up the good parts, while trying to keep the rusty bits covered up in the corner.

I wish you the best along the way, you have a great audience here to bounce things off in a safe enviroment.

[rrobbone]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

pretty much daily. i listen to music and podcasts all day during the work week (and in the car). i enjoy making playlists that mix a fair amount of artists i know and enjoy with new (to me) artists. i've come up with several different "systems" over the years to accomplish this. most recently i've started using this nifty website to find similar artists to whoever i happen to be listening to https://www.music-map.com

i've also been tuning in to the KEXP youtube channel fairly regularly for a while now. I do enjoy watching/listening to well produced in-studio performances or well-captured live performances

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

Spotify. It used to be Google Play Music, until Google torpedoed it to make way for Youtube Music. I had a premium subscription to Youtube Music when it launched and did not like the interface/lack of features. I don't know if it has improved since...

I do watch a lot of live performances on youtube

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

My instagram and facebook feeds are mostly music and guitar related. i follow a lot of my favorite bands/artists. it's typically how I keep up with new releases, tour dates, etc.

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

Lately, Instagram. I usually peruse my feed a handful of times throughout the day. It's much easier to personalize/manage and far less toxic and convoluted than facebook - which i try to spend less and less time on. I've avoided twitter thus far.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

My gut response is: Not very. Though I do follow individual artists who do share varying degrees of information about their personal lives.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

Nothing in particular comes to mind outside of music related topics.

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

I'm always on the lookout for vinyl releases. That's really the only music medium I purchase these days outside of my Spotify subscription. Under normal circumstances, I do make an effort to get out and see a few shows every year. I'm most likely to be alerted to a show date by a social media post, as I don't often remember to check individual venue schedules. Merch is tougher. I have an entire drawer dedicated to black band t-shirts, so I've slowed down on those. But hey if the design is cool enough, I may still decide I need it. I have even coughed up for a couple of zip hoodies.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Good music first. Good live show second. I may be misunderstanding the question?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

If I discover the music first and it piques my interest enough, i'm most likely to jump on youtube and look for live footage, interviews, gear discussions, documentary type stuff. If I'm still interested after that I may start following on social media, checking out merch, looking for tour dates, etc. I'm ALWAYS interested in seeing what gear people are using.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

My only suggestion here would just be to make sure it's available, or at least announced on whatever social media outlets they are using (I'd recommend having a youtube channel for such things). that's likely the only way i'll see them/tune in.

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?

The music obviously has to be the focus. Staying visibly active is certainly a good way to keep my attention - but within reason. I'm pretty quick to be turned off by multiple posts a day from the same account - it can start to feel like spam. There's a lot of stuff on my feed for me to keep up with, and if it seems like you're hogging it - I'm likely to unfollow. I would also suggest staying on target/topic. Keep personal, political, etc. discussions to individual accounts.

Hope that helps! Good luck

Thanks for your answers!

YouTube music is fairly light on features, but I like the flexibility in the personalised playlists and how they can be arranged. The major issue I have with them is that there's no way to tell the algorhythm that you were just browsing new bands and you don't necessarily want to now hear a shit ton of Operatic Norwegian Power Metal - even if you did click on that one video of that one band that one time.

I'd also love a slider to adjust how many new-to-me artists I want to hear at any given time. It was my favorite feature on Slacker.

Podcasts! That's a great idea! I hadn't thought of that! Might be fun to have one of my own...

Music Map is an interesting site. It explains a lot about why certain bands show up in seemingly unrelated playlists on the streaming services. Some band names create some very interesting maps.

"...some sort of value..." You nailed it, I was looking for things you might be willing to buy in order to support an independent musician you're a fan of. I can't tour at the moment, so any other forms of possible income would be the priority.

You said you don't want to be spammed with content, what are your thoughts about what the right amount would be in your estimation?

[rrobbone]

Being genuine as you mentioned also seems to be rather important as it's mentioned quite a bit, and that's going to be a little difficult for me to do - at least at first. I've become a bit of an introvert, and a step like that invites everyone into my personal little world. I've spent a lot of time setting up my life to avoid people (who aren't family) to a large extent. When my wife first suggested a move to her home state so she could be near her family, my first thought was, "nobody knows me there." While that would be a negative to most, I was actually thrilled at the thought.

Guess it's time to work on thickening the skin again.

Thanks for taking the time, I appreciate it.

While i'm not trying to start a music business, I did recently just go through a job layoff and had to basically start all over after a 20 year career. It was a "comfortable" position as I worked mostly remotely, and I knew my job very well so I could do it almost in my sleep.

The most troubling part of the whole ordeal was "thickening my skin" and also being willing to sell myself in the job search process. It's such a different world now and you basically do have to literally treat your career like you are trying to sell a used car - list all your features on linikedin and polish up the good parts, while trying to keep the rusty bits covered up in the corner.

I wish you the best along the way, you have a great audience here to bounce things off in a safe enviroment.

Sorry to hear about the gig, man - I'm in the same boat. Thank goodness the guitar biz has been going as well as it has - the extra income from it has really come in handy. It's been a rough go trying to find a decent gig here. I'm in a rather small town and not in posession of a surname that the townies recognize - or at least, that's what it's feeling like.

Thanks again for the answers and information!

[zisme]

You said you don't want to be spammed with content, what are your thoughts about what the right amount would be in your estimation?

I would say a post a day is fine if you have enough meaningful content to support that. i can understand going beyond that under certain circumstances where you'd need to promote a new release or important announcement. just as long as it doesn't seem like you're flooding my feed.

less frequency is fine. i'm not going to forget about you in week or even a month if i'm genuinely interested.

[nomadh]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

Pandora has been good at finding me new music. For an old guy I've added a surprisingly lot of new content. Also a bit of word of mouth. Just found temperance movement that way. Sometimes a friend will post a new band on facebook. Or a band will post a video.

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

Facebook (no idea why) maybe since agf got smaller.
YouTube can lead me on a merry chase.
Here


How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

Are we supposed to do that? Isnt that stalking?; )

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

Unlikely I love someone's music and their hobbies
Maybe if they were quite the character. I like dave Grohl slot but his music ehh.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

Maybe exclusive concerts. Between albums you can cover others songs. Maybe every donation gets you a chance to win where you cover the song of the winners choice? Or pay to vote for what cover song.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

The music. Always the music.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

Lessons maybe?

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?
Have the same politics as me. Probably best to just say you hate politics.

[UrenragK]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?
Spotify radio, Sonos radio, friends, the AGF Riffs list!

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?
Spotify, Sonos, Apple Music - Spotify is the favourite, Sonos for the quality. Don’t like Apple much, UI isn’t as friendly.

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?
Barely

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?
Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, in that order. I’m a photographer so Instagram is more to my way.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?
Occasionally, but not too often.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?
*shrugs*

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?
Tough question, a chance to ask them a question maybe.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?
Online

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?
A catchy riff, melody or bass line. What makes you love anyone? Try putting that in words.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?
If you really like them you would just do so I guess

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?
New music.

[toomanycats]

In the interest of attempting to die without leaving anything on the table (I wish to have as few regrets as possible at life's end), I'm considering the best way to finally take a serious shot at releasing some music of my own. As you well know, the climate for new artists and how they are found and followed is changing by the minute. I thought it would spark an interesting discussion to ask you good folks a few questions about where you seek new music. Please copy, paste, and answer. Feel free to add anything you like. I'll be taking your answers into consideration once I start to develop a strategy for how to promote and market. Thanks for helping out!

Please note: none of the answers for the following questions involves bikinis, breasts, thighs, legs, or batting eyes. I don't have those assets, so I can't utilize them - despite their well known effectiveness in the world of marketing. We regret any inconvenience this may cause - MGMT.



How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?



All this is assuming the music is of studio quality and constructed with an eye towards a commercially intended release. The near term goals are to write and release solid music to the streaming channels, then build a small fanbase to interact with and eventually monetize enough to make this endeavor my main source of income. I don't believe any of our normal contributors here would shit on this desire, but just in case: I would prefer any negative or otherwise discouraging comments be kept constructive.

I want to be the next AGF Idol, following in the footsteps of such luminaries as former member Keith Merrow.

I'd really love to hear your opinions, thoughts, and anything else you'd like to say about the subject. I'm convinced that I have to take a dedicated shot at this, or I'll never be able to forgive myself. Your thoughtful input is very much appreciated. I'm hoping this gets some really good conversation going.

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)? I guess you could say it's an "I Ching" approach. If somebody says, "Hey, check this out," or I see it posted here, or I randomly come across it in some other way and I find it captivating, then I'll give it my attention. But I don't actively look for new music. I'm more about mining the past, about fruitfully returning to the sources.

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why? YouTube, basically because it's convenient for me.

How closely do you follow music artists on social media? Not too much. I get the majority of my news from AGF. I also look at Blabbermouth occasionally, mostly for the comedy of the comments.

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF? None.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists? Quite interested.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them? All kinds of things from a perspective of pure curiosity, but in particular what they are as a human, the experiences they've had that may have contributed to their artistic output and make-up.

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases? I feel passionate about what they do.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you? Create art that enhances my life, makes me either happy or sad in a meaningful way, educates me, dazzles me, inspires me, acts as the soundtrack of my existence.

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest? The promise that they can deliver more of the same and even better.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly? YouTube

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan? Respect the "human-ness" of music, respect the responsibility to cultivate and nurture talent, to push oneself to the limit of one's ability.

[rrobbone]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?
Spotify radio, Sonos radio, friends, the AGF Riffs list!

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?
Spotify, Sonos, Apple Music - Spotify is the favourite, Sonos for the quality. Don’t like Apple much, UI isn’t as friendly.

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?
Barely

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?
Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, in that order. I’m a photographer so Instagram is more to my way.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?
Occasionally, but not too often.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?
*shrugs*

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?
Tough question, a chance to ask them a question maybe.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?
Online

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?
A catchy riff, melody or bass line. What makes you love anyone? Try putting that in words.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?
If you really like them you would just do so I guess

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?
New music.

Awesome, thanks for your thoughts!

[rrobbone]

In the interest of attempting to die without leaving anything on the table (I wish to have as few regrets as possible at life's end), I'm considering the best way to finally take a serious shot at releasing some music of my own. As you well know, the climate for new artists and how they are found and followed is changing by the minute. I thought it would spark an interesting discussion to ask you good folks a few questions about where you seek new music. Please copy, paste, and answer. Feel free to add anything you like. I'll be taking your answers into consideration once I start to develop a strategy for how to promote and market. Thanks for helping out!

Please note: none of the answers for the following questions involves bikinis, breasts, thighs, legs, or batting eyes. I don't have those assets, so I can't utilize them - despite their well known effectiveness in the world of marketing. We regret any inconvenience this may cause - MGMT.



How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?



All this is assuming the music is of studio quality and constructed with an eye towards a commercially intended release. The near term goals are to write and release solid music to the streaming channels, then build a small fanbase to interact with and eventually monetize enough to make this endeavor my main source of income. I don't believe any of our normal contributors here would shit on this desire, but just in case: I would prefer any negative or otherwise discouraging comments be kept constructive.

I want to be the next AGF Idol, following in the footsteps of such luminaries as former member Keith Merrow.

I'd really love to hear your opinions, thoughts, and anything else you'd like to say about the subject. I'm convinced that I have to take a dedicated shot at this, or I'll never be able to forgive myself. Your thoughtful input is very much appreciated. I'm hoping this gets some really good conversation going.

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)? I guess you could say it's an "I Ching" approach. If somebody says, "Hey, check this out," or I see it posted here, or I randomly come across it in some other way and I find it captivating, then I'll give it my attention. But I don't actively look for new music. I'm more about mining the past, about fruitfully returning to the sources.

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why? YouTube, basically because it's convenient for me.

How closely do you follow music artists on social media? Not too much. I get the majority of my news from AGF. I also look at Blabbermouth occasionally, mostly for the comedy of the comments.

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF? None.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists? Quite interested.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them? All kinds of things from a perspective of pure curiosity, but in particular what they are as a human, the experiences they've had that may have contributed to their artistic output and make-up.

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases? I feel passionate about what they do.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you? Create art that enhances my life, makes me either happy or sad in a meaningful way, educates me, dazzles me, inspires me, acts as the soundtrack of my existence.

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest? The promise that they can deliver more of the same and even better.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly? YouTube

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan? Respect the "human-ness" of music, respect the responsibility to cultivate and nurture talent, to push oneself to the limit of one's ability.

Thank you for the time, TMC!

[rrobbone]

Cool guys, thank you for all of the responses. I'll take a whack at 'em here, it's only fair that I share as well.

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

I do this constantly. Almost anytime there's downtime for me, I'm online. It's about 50/50 seeking new stufff and enjoying current music.

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?

I listen most often on YouTube music, and then either YouTube or Sirius XM in the vehicles. Sometimes Apple Music.

Good things: On YT, sheer variety is astounding and the opportunity to find new artists is staggering. On XM, it's a satellite based system so it's everywhere - a godsend here in the mountains. There are several good stations with guitar based music and the DJs are knowledgable and entertaining for the most part. The comedy stations are golden for long trips. Both: No commercials.

Bad things: On YT, the algorhythm needs improvement. If you explore the vids of a band that's maybe a little out of your norm, then YT will absolutely innundate your personal mix with anything remotely related to that band or genre. You'll have to do some weed pulling for weeks after that - but then if you don't seek something outside of the personal list, it becomes more stagnant than a Pandora channel. You have to constantly f*ck around with it to get that personal "for you" list to sit just right. If I want to check out a particular band, I'll go to Apple music for them so it doesn't skew YT. On XM, well... it's expensive as hell. I don't listen to Stern, but I sure am paying for the priviledge. Also, some of the playlists can get very same-y and repetitive - it's almost as bad as it is on terrestrial radio for some of the stations.

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?

It depends. They have to have personality and consistency - and not be selling me constantly. The "quarantine videos" of performances using split screen from band members' homes has me pretty hooked every time one pops up. Those are fun to watch. Other times, it's cool to just see what "a day in the life" is like. Hagar had a fun little vid about the trials of Ferrari ownership in his Insta "Stories" that made me laugh not too long ago. Michael Anthony posts little vids about being a grandpa. The little diversions are fun sometimes, these people have lives outside of the stage and lights. I like that "feelgood" shit.

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?

Mostly Instagram, during life's little in-between moments. If someone really interests me, I'll look for their YT channel. I'm not interested in any others, TikToc is silly, FB is a cesspool these days, and I don't participate in Twitter. I'm going to have to start up on all that if I'm going to do this, tho.

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?

Like for most of you, it depends on the artist. Guys who are always doing something (Hagar, Grohl) or always seem to have something to say (Halford, DLR) are interesting to me. If you're a fan of The Grand Tour, the hosts' social channels are worth looking at - because those guys are hilarious to me. I also follow a few gear whores even though I don't listen to their music very often. I'm not a real big fan of their music usually, but I follow people like Bonamassa and Jordan Rudess due to their sheer passion for their instruments. And yeah, I'm a guy, so I follow Samantha Fish because she's amazing and rather good looking. That helps.

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

If I like that guy/gal - I'm up for whatever they want to say, as long as they don't start getting political or railing about the latest injustice in the world. I know it needs to be addressed, but I go to them for entertainment free of worry or care. That inherently rules out following some bands/artists, unfortunately.

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?

I do it if I respect what that artist is doing and again, if they're sincere in the efforts. I try to buy a t-shirt (or something I can use) if the option is provided, and I've hit a few virtual tip jars from time to time - but only if that artist is in the position of hustling. Sure, I'll proudly wear the t-shirt of my favoite signed band - but the indie artst really could use the cash and the exposure from my wearing their logo. Make good music, be consistent, be personable - and I'll chip in from time to time.

Following the previous question: What do you consider the best way for an artist to provide some sort of value to you?

I like quality clothing merch or live performances. I also like stickers, and I'll hit a tip jar as well. I let YT music run constantly as well, all those spins can add up in revenue for those artists.

Let's assume you just found a new band to get really excited for. What made you want to see/hear more from them? What piques your interest?

It's about the music, first and foremost. I'm also interested in all aspects of creative endeavors, so I like to hear things about the artists and how they write/produce the music I'm enjoying.

If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?

Insight into their creative process is always good. Vids about certain recording techniques and equipment reviews are also welcome. I've just sat and watched several artists just working in the studio with a camera over their shoulder - never addressing it during the work, just letting it run/stream while the music gets done. Their process in comparison to mine is fascinating to me.

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?

Make good music regularly, and support/help other musicians.

Be a good human, be genuine and open. Engage the fanbase and be as reachable as possible, considering. Be consistent in your posts with quality vids, not just "check-ins." Be humble and truly thankful for the support and connections made. As sense of humor and playful attitude also goes a long way with me, especially when an artist is making their "calls to action," which is just a fancy way of saying "trying to pry some cash out of my fanbase."

Musicians gotta eat, too.

---

So, in essence... you want to see/hear a good mix of:

Good music
Honesty/integrity/humility
Consistant content
Varied content
Creative process content
Gear related content
Some personal life
Quality presentation
...and ya don't mind throwin' a buck or two in the tip jar for it.

Good insight so far, please keep it coming. You're giving me a lot to think about as I plan for this.

[Floridian FX]

How (and how often) do you seek out new artists (or: how do they find you, if that's the case)?

Constantly. I have a couple sites I check every Friday for new releases.

What streaming platforms (or other music listening choices) are your favorites and why?
Spotify, SIriusXM

How closely do you follow music artists on social media?
Not at all

What is your social media app (or apps) of choice, besides the mighty AGF?
BookFace

How interested in any way are you in learning more about the personal lives (or anything outside of the music) of your favorite artists?
Not interested

What are some things you'd be interested in knowing about them?

How could you be persuaded to support your favorite artists in financial ways - such as Patreon, song downloads, merch, or ticket purchases?
Merch, Spotify has negated any reason for me to download anymore


If your favorite artists were to provide lessons or streaming episodic content of some sort, what would be the best way to get you to tune in regularly?
Lessons on how to play their songs that aren't at 5 billion miles an hour

What are the best actions an artist can take to keep your attention and your loyalty as a fan?
Release new music on a yearly basis