Live-streaming has had a huge impact on many industries over the last decade, not least the music industry. So, let’s take a look at some of the key benefits for using live-streaming in music marketing, and the impact this can have on the audience.
Interactive Experiences
Live-streaming has long since been utilized in the entertainment industry, providing virtual alternatives to traditionally in person experiences. For example, fans of table games can try their hand at live roulette through a range of different online platforms. This allows providers to experiment with different thematics, such as the space-themed Quantum Roulette or the art deco Lightning Roulette. In introducing different graphics, motifs, and interactive elements, this opens up the gameplay to create unique and immersive interactive experiences.
The same logic, then, can be applied to the music industry. Live-streaming can allow large music promoters or independent musicians alike to provide interactive experiences that take traditional events and performances to the next level. Artists can host everything from live stream gigs to intimate acoustic shows, for alternative experiences. Audiences can interact with immersive features such as Q&A segments, polls, and perhaps even merch giveaways, encouraging active participation for a more personalized, immersive experience.
Source: Pexels
Boosting Engagement
Around 92% of music superfans want to foster a more intimate connection with their favorite bands and singers. When considering the most effective channels for this connection, 78% like to see exclusive backstage footage, and 85% like to see Q&As and personalized messages. With this in mind, 73% believe that musicians who frequently engage with their fan base are more relatable and authentic.
Live-streaming is one of the most effective ways for musicians to schedule regular engagement with their audience. Even with a busy schedule, it is simple to turn on a camera and provide even a minute or so of live behind-the-scenes footage – and, live Q&As can be pretty off the cuff with little preparation. These intimate-feeling events allow musicians to deepen their connection with their fan base, strengthening the relationship between the artist and the consumer. By boosting engagement, this can foster a sense of trust and loyalty, in time increasing sales and revenue.
Source: Pexels
Wider Audience Reach
For many musicians, appealing to a global audience has traditionally been tricky. Especially when first starting out, travelling to lots of different countries to play gigs and promote releases can be a time-consuming and costly effort. That said, a global audience is undoubtedly one of the keys to success. Beyoncé, for example, has a strong fan base everywhere from Reunion to France, and Brazil to Albania.
Live-streaming allows musicians to cross geographical boundaries without setting foot off their home soil. Through the internet, fans from all over the world can tune into live experiences – the experience is the same for everyone, no matter where they are located. This allows musicians to enter new markets and expand their audience reach to global listeners, going beyond the limitations of physical venues and distribution methods.
As you can see, there are many benefits to using live-streaming in music marketing. Live-streaming can allow musicians to create and foster intimate connections with a global audience through interactive and immersive virtual experiences. All that’s left to do is get streaming!