Why DIY Shows Keep the Scene Alive
January 31, 2025Authenticity Over Algorithms
Let’s be real—social media is a necessary evil for any band trying to make a name for themselves. But between the constant algorithm changes, fake engagement hacks, and everyone fighting for attention, it’s easy to feel like you’re shouting into the void. The good news? You don’t need a viral TikTok or millions of followers to build a real fanbase. You just need the right approach.
Here’s how to grow your audience without losing your identity in the process.
1. Post Like a Fan, Not a Brand
Your band isn’t a faceless corporation, so don’t post like one. Fans want to connect with people, not a perfectly curated marketing machine. Share the raw, real, and ridiculous moments—studio bloopers, van breakdowns, backstage chaos, whatever makes your band your band.
Post candid photos and behind-the-scenes clips.
Talk to your followers like they’re your friends.
Share personal stories—why a song matters, a wild tour story, a shoutout to a local band you love.
Overly polished, robotic captions.
Only posting “New song out now! Stream it!” without context.
Treating your page like a business and not a community.
2. The 70/30 Rule (A REAL content strategy)
A good rule of thumb: 70% engagement, 30% promotion. If all you do is promote, people tune out fast. Your fans follow you because they care about the culture and lifestyle around your music—not just the music itself.
ENGAGING CONTENT IDEAS (70%)
Tour life updates (even if it’s just playing to five people in a basement).
Favorite records or songs inspiring your band right now.
“Ask Us Anything” Q&A sessions in your stories.
Funny band moments—bad tattoos, worst gig experiences, terrible band van breakdowns.
Behind-the-scenes songwriting or recording clips.
PROMOTIONAL CONTENT (30%)
Show announcements & ticket links.
Merch drops and album releases.
Lyric breakdowns and song meaning deep dives.
Live performance clips to hype upcoming gigs.
The key? Even your promo posts should have personality. Instead of just dropping a tour flyer, tell a story about why a certain venue means something to you. Instead of just posting “New single out now,” share what inspired the lyrics.
3. The 3 E’s: Entertain, Educate, Engage
Every post should do at least one of these things:
Make people laugh, think, or feel something. Emo bands? Tap into nostalgia. Punk bands? Call out the system. Post something that makes people react.
Teach people something cool—your gear setup, how you write your riffs, the story behind your band name, a breakdown of your favorite pedals. Give people a reason to stick around.
Social media isn’t a megaphone—it’s a conversation. Reply to comments, answer DMs, and interact with fans without treating them like customers.
4. TikTok & Reels: The Necessary Evil (Make It Work for You)
You don’t have to be a dance-trend influencer to win on TikTok or Instagram Reels. But short-form video is the way to reach new fans right now.
A 15-second breakdown of a song’s meaning.
POV: You walk into a show and hear your band’s song playing.
“If you like [bigger band], you might love our new track.”
Your guitarist butchering the easiest riff ever.
“Things I’d rather do than pay for ad promotion” (insert chaos).
Post consistently, but don’t force it. Some videos will flop, some will pop off. That’s just the game.
5. Stop Chasing Numbers—Build a Real Community
At the end of the day, 10 real fans who buy tickets and merch are better than 1,000 fake followers who do nothing. Focus on the people who actually care.
Make your fans feel like part of your journey (shout them out, bring them into your process).
Host exclusive giveaways or early access for followers.
Play smaller, more personal shows and actually connect with people.
Reply to comments—don’t just post and disappear.
Your goal isn’t just followers—it’s a movement.
