Would you like to know one of the secrets to my success?

I learned long ago that positive, successful, empowered people do certain things a little differently than the majority of people. One of these things I started doing years ago, before I even knew it was a secret to success. I just naturally (and accidentally) gravitated toward doing it.

It's a powerful thing. In fact, I believe it is one of the biggest reasons I've accomplished so many cool things in my life: becoming a published author, releasing three independent music releases, publishing a music magazine, becoming recognized as a top source for indie music marketing ideas, and more.

So ... what's the secret?

Attracting more fans. Admit it, that's what music marketing is all about -- getting more people to come to your shows and buy your CDs. And hopefully, getting a lot more people to do those things.

Why else do you work so hard to travel and play as many places as you can? For what other reason do you meticulously write and record songs? I don't believe the reason is so you can practice and keep up your chops in obscurity. It's not because you want to impress influential managers or A&R people. You work hard because you know you have something of value to offer ... and you want to reach as many people as possible with your music.

Marketing is the thing that helps you reach that goal. But marketing is also a subject that confuses a lot of musicians. Songwriters and band members the world over know they need to promote themselves. But many don't know where to start, much less know how to continue effectively.

Does this describe you? Do you ever feel like you're spinning your wheels, not sure exactly what you should be doing next to market yourself? If so, this would be a good time to cover some basic marketing concepts for independent musicians.