“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.” – Victor Hugo
At the end of a busy workweek, my Honey and I decided to grab a bite at the local brewery that featured live music on Friday nights. We sipped our brews and watched the guitarist set up and do a sound check while her bestie salted the tip jar with a few bucks.
She had the right look, flowing blonde tresses, a short skirt and snazzy cowboy boots. And despite some early jitters, she chatted amicably with the crowd and played a solid set of covers, including “You’re the One That I Want” and “Wild Side”. And despite her sweet smile and a lovely voice, I cannot remember her name. And there was nothing in her performance or set-up to indicate who she was or where she could be found.
Even Cinderella left a shoe.
A few weeks later we caught Jimbo Scott & Yesterday’s Biscuits at the Reno Public Market. Between songs, Jimbo engaged the crowd with anecdotes about his songs, including the one inspired while his son was learning to walk. His son smiled at certain riffs and not others and thus toddled his way into his first song co-writing credit with his dad. Another evening of great music and I hope to see the group again when they pass through Reno. Yes, we bought a CD and t-shirts.
Yes, Jimbo Scott is clearly the more experienced musician of the two and he had a CD and a slew of cool swag. During the show he also announced the other local gigs they would play over the weekend and reminded folks to sign up for his mailing list, both low cost means of building an audience. Even the solo performers at our farmer’s markets have business cards alongside their open cases or tip jars. One enterprising accordionist had a small sign listing her Instagram and email along with her Venmo info (for virtual tips).
I agree that there’s something magic about having the opportunity to connect with fans in person. With a little consideration toward marketing, you can keep that magic happening.
Create on the Side Blog 
great article and so true. Marketing at any form connects u to your fans and audience . A good way is networking no matter what u do. People will remember u through the little extras .
Very true, even business cards and postcards can speak for us. And those little extras can make all the difference. Thanks for stopping by!