The 8-Step Email Marketing Blueprint for Musicians

Attract More Listeners, Sell Out Shows, and Stand Out in the Industry

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Introduction: Why Email Marketing is a Game Changer for Musicians

Think email marketing is old news? Think again.

For musicians looking to make a name for themselves and grow their careers, email marketing is a powerful tool to reach more fans, sell more music, and sell out shows.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of email marketing and supercharge your music career? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Entertain with Email — It’s Showtime!

Infotainment: The Perfect Balance

Infotainment is a catchy blend of information and entertainment. Your emails should be informative, yes, but they should also be engaging, fun, and entertaining. Keep your readers hooked with a mix of valuable insights and captivating stories.

Your Superhero Personality: Unleash Your Inner Star

To create a memorable and engaging email persona, think of yourself as a superhero. Consider these key elements:

Superpowers: What unique skills, talents, or knowledge do you possess?
Origin Story/Backstory: How did you get started in music? Share your journey with your fans.
Flaws: Nobody’s perfect — show your vulnerability and relatability.
Distinct Personality/Likability Traits: What makes you likable and interesting? Emphasize those qualities.
Philosophy/Driving Force: What motivates you to create music? Share your values and aspirations.
Shared Enemy/Villain: Identify common struggles or challenges that you and your fans can rally against.
Rescues: Offer solutions and support to your fans, helping them overcome obstacles and challenges.

Bonding through Words: Connect on a Deeper Level

To forge a strong connection with your audience, try these bonding techniques:

Rule #1: “Speak” to just one person. Write as if you’re talking to a close friend.
Rule #2: Give nicknames. Use affectionate, casual nicknames to create camaraderie.
Rule #3: Have a shared vocabulary. Develop unique phrases or expressions that only your fan base will understand.
Rule #4: Assume trust and likemindedness. Be authentic and genuine, and your fans will respond in kind.

Writing Subject Lines: The Art of Attraction

Capture your audience’s attention with compelling subject lines:

Attraction by Repulsion: Use curiosity, shock, or controversy to pique interest.
Contrast: Stand out from the crowd with contrasting ideas or phrases.

Practice by writing five subject lines using the techniques above.

Step 2: Pitch Your Products and Services — It’s All About the Music

What to Sell: The 3-Prong Expert Business Model

To maximize your revenue potential, employ the 3-prong expert business model:

One-to-One: Offer personalized services like music lessons or songwriting sessions.
One-to-Many: Sell group experiences like live concerts, webinars, or workshops.
Leveraged Assets-to-Many: Create digital assets like albums, merchandise, or subscription-based content.

Customer Ascension: A Journey Through Your Offerings

Guide your fans through a series of increasingly valuable offerings, gradually transforming them from casual listeners to die-hard fans.

Micro-Brands: Expanding Your Empire

Develop smaller, focused brands to diversify your offerings and expand your reach:

Mission-based: Create projects centered around a specific cause or purpose.
Meme-based: Use humor, trends, or cultural references to capture attention.
Brand-based: Build sub-brands with distinct identities that resonate with different segments of your audience.

Assignment: Start an Asset List

Create a list of assets (products and services) that you can offer to your fans, focusing on the 3-prong expert model and incorporating micro-brands.

When to Sell: Timing is Everything

Develop a promotional system and calendar to strategically plan your sales throughout the year, taking advantage of holidays, special events, and product launches.

How to Sell: Engaging Your Audience

Use storytelling, emotion, and compelling copy to promote your offerings in an authentic and engaging way.

Step 3: List Building Tools — The Foundation for Success

Equip yourself with these essential tools for list building and email marketing:

ESP (Email Service Provider): Choose a reliable ESP for sending emails and managing automation.
Blog: Create content and offer e-commerce options on your website or blog.
Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to drive traffic and build relationships.

Step 4: Building Your Email List — The More, the Merrier

Lead Magnets: Enticing Your Audience

Offer exclusive, high-value content (e.g., unreleased tracks, behind-the-scenes footage) as lead magnets to incentivize fans to join your email list.

Free Traffic: Playing the Long Game

Leverage social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and other organic strategies to attract traffic to your site and grow your list over time.

Paid Traffic: Fast Results — For a Price

Use paid advertising on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Google to quickly attract new fans and grow your list.

Step 5: Email Templates — A Blueprint for Success

Craft a series of email templates to ensure consistency and effectiveness in your email marketing efforts. For example, create a 7-day email plan to engage new subscribers and showcase your best content.

Conclusion: Supercharge Your Music Career with Email Marketing

Implement this 8-step email marketing blueprint to attract more listeners, sell out shows, and stand out in the music industry. With a powerful mix of engaging content, strategic planning, and valuable offerings, you’ll be on your way to email marketing success and a thriving music career.

I help musicians implement this blueprint in my Email Marketing for Musicians coaching program. (This link will take you to grahamenglish.com to learn more.)