There probably isn’t a band on earth that isn’t looking to increase their exposure. After all, that is the road to fame, be it local or global. However, podcasting isn’t often one of the ways in which musicians of today think to market their band. Perhaps this is because of the fact that podcasts have traditionally been a one-way street with little to no interaction from listeners or fans. Actually, there is a new direction podcasting is taking and it might be something today’s bands might find effective in building a solid fanbase.
Breaking It Down to Basics
It should come as no surprise that today’s musician is familiar with posting videos to YouTube but ask them to create a podcast and many are at a loss. It isn’t quite as difficult as you might think but if you’ve never tried to create one, you might find Melon’s guide on starting a podcast useful. Once you get the basics down, you’ll understand just how effective a podcast can be at growing a loyal fanbase. While there are video podcasts, it’s generally just still image and added as a video element. Podcasts are primarily audio presentations and usually they are informative in nature.
Why a Podcast?
At this point you may be wondering why you would want to create a podcast if it’s basically just like a radio show without video content. That’s a very good question and to understand the answer, think back to all those radio shows you listen to religiously while riding to and from work, school, or gigs. The content ranges from educational, to comic and everything in between. As a matter of fact, the first podcast to gain notoriety in the States can find its roots in a live show recorded by the Patriots of the NFL to be downloaded on demand by fans. Podcasting technology had not been invented at the time, but the concept was there and off to a running start – no pun intended.
Not Interactive by Nature
Since a podcast is a recorded ‘show’ and available for download or streaming on demand, there really hasn’t been an interactive element to date. However, many podcasters are devising interactive elements to stay connected to their audience. Many are modelling these after comments left by viewers on YouTube that can be responded to by the podcast’s creator. This is a major benefit to bands looking to increase their fanbase because members of the band can answer questions and reply to comments left by interested fans.
The purpose of the podcast would obviously be to stay in touch with listeners. It can be broadcast live and then available for streaming. Many musicians are creating podcasts to discuss plans for their next recording or to discuss cities they’ve played or even such things as current events they have a take on. Since podcasts have their roots in audio blogging yet are not quite the same, it’s possible to go in any creative direction the podcaster decides to take. From keeping fans apprised of where you’ll be playing to letting them see a more personal side to band members, podcasting can help you build a loyal following who will stay tuned for your next podcast. And that’s how stars are born.