Image via Shutterstock

These days, streaming is king, and while many artists who aren’t ruling the charts aren’t happy about that, there’s no getting around the fact that platforms like Spotify and Apple Music have taken over. Millions of people listen to billions of songs on those sites, and as a result, sales have dwindled.

Both digital sales and purchases of physical music (CDs, at least) continue to tumble year after year, and it’s harder than ever to convince fans to shell out even just a few bucks to own a collection of songs when they can listen for free online.

So, if you want to continue to sell music, and perhaps even up your shipments, look no further than your own website, which is where many of your most ardent supporters will look to buy whatever you’re offering.

Image via pexels.comThink about your favorite band. What is it about them that makes you go to every show, buy all their merch, and follow their every move? Sure, their music connects with you — that’s the first step, after all. But if you think beyond the basics, odds are they have some kind of promotional strategy that keeps you engaged both in person and online. If they’re doing it well and being genuine about it, you probably don’t realize it’s promotion at all.

We’ve rounded up the strategies of major-label artists and emerging indies that are making their mark with unique, highly customized tactics that are ripe with inspiration. Here are nine ways to make them work for you, too.

Image via Shutterstock

When we last talked about Adele on this blog, she was saving the music industry in 2011 with the release of her critically (and everywhere else) acclaimed sophomore album, 21. We pointed out a few examples of her approach towards her audience and how she used her music to build an incredible platform to reach them on a deeper level.

Image via Shutterstock

Every year, I revel in the chance to break out a brand-new notebook, pick up my favorite pen, and start planning for all the wonderful, exciting, career-changing things I’m going to do in the new year. Yes, I am totally one of those people that finds inspiration in the whole “anything can happen next year” thing.

Why not? Why can’t 2019 be the year that you build a stronger bond with fans, make connections that can help guide your career, and put forth a momentum and path that will one day shape your legacy?

I believe in the power of change and the inventiveness that a new year brings. But, sometimes, you need a little kick start. Give these five tips a try to get ready to rock 2019.

Image via Shutterstock

One of the joys of living a creative life is that you don't have to play by anyone else's rules, and you get to call the shots on how you spend your time. It's always helpful, however, to have a list of guidelines to follow as a source of inspiration when things aren’t going your way.

Maintaining a positive outlook and keeping the big picture in perspective play a huge role in thriving as an artist. So, in order to avoid negative distractions and reach your full potential, follow these four rules as daily reminders of your mission as a musician.