© 2009 Vinny Ribas
It is very important for every artist to know who their fans are and why they are fans in the first place. Knowing this is the only way that you can insure that you keep delivering what they expect and want more of. If you think they like you for one reason, and you’re wrong, you run the risk of alienating your most ardent and vocal supporters.
Here are some ways to determine exactly what your appeal is:
- Meet them after the shows when you’re selling CDs and merchandise. Strike up conversations. Ask them what they liked best about the show. Be careful not to come across as conceited. Be honest. Tell them that you really want to get to know your fans so that you can give them more of what they like. [private_member]
- Have someone else survey the people who come to your shows to find out what they like most about you.
- Check your messages on MySpace. You can glean a lot from people’s comments.
- Have a guest book on your website. The people who sign it will leave candid comments (unless it’s your family).
- Survey them electronically. You can do this on your website, in your newsletter, on your MySpace or other social network sites. Offer a free download to anyone who fills out the survey.
- Watch closely for reactions to certain songs, certain things you say etc. Video your shows and keep 1 camera on the audience. That way you can watch their reactions to everything later with an objective eye.
- Collect demographic information (age range, zip code, gender) when people order your CD or sign up for your newsletter online. This will show you what age group, gender and geographic location you appeal to the most.
Consistently delivering the quality, style, image and sounds that your fans love is by far the most effective way to establish a long and prosperous career.[/private_member]
