Hard work and great music are essential for a career in the music industry, but you can help distinguish yourself by cultivating a unique image. Here are the best tips for building a brand in the music industry.

What Is a Brand?

While it may sound nice to say, “It’s all about the music,” success in the music industry usually requires a little more planning. As important as good music is, you also need to develop a brand. Your brand is the image you cultivate for yourself—are you a crooner like Sinatra? An eccentric like Ozzy Osbourne?

No matter what you think fits with your personality, it’s essential to give people a style and unique identity to latch onto.

Decide Your Message

This is both the most essential question to answer and the most challenging: why do you write music? Once you know, you’ll have a better idea of what your brand should be. Some artists in the ‘60s and ‘70s built their brand around protesting the Vietnam war, while others wanted to encourage people to have a good time.

Make a Good First Impression

When we say “good,” what we really mean is “memorable.” Whether someone hears your music or sees your face, you want to make sure that there’s a lasting impression. The biggest benefit of a brand is that it helps you distill your ideas into a simple image or vibe—this instantly helps people understand what you offer.

Grabbing attention within the first few seconds is no easy task, but once you master it, people all over the world will know your name.

Be Yourself

This might sound a little cheesy, but it’s the most important thing to keep in mind. While branding can get sensational, it needs a foundation of truth for it to resonate. Audiences have a knack for seeing through lies, so don’t develop a “bad boy” persona if you’re a reserved, kind-hearted person. Stay true to yourself, and you’ll stand out from the crowd.

Now that you know these top tips for building a brand in the music industry, figure out your message and stick with it—people will love your music in no time!