How to Use Substack for Music: Tips and Strategies
Substack is more than just a newsletter platform—it's an evolving hub for musicians to share their work, connect with fans, and build sustainable communities. Here’s how musicians can make the most of Substack, with actionable tips and strategies.
Why Musicians Should Consider Substack
Direct Fan Connection: Substack allows you to communicate directly with your audience, bypassing social media algorithms and owning your subscriber list.
Multimedia Support: You can embed audio, video, and images, making it easy to share music, behind-the-scenes content, and more.
Community Building: Features like Notes and Comments foster interaction, turning passive listeners into engaged supporters.
Getting Started: Setting Up Your Substack
Create Your Account: Sign up and choose a memorable name and description that reflects your music and personality.
Customize Your Page: Add a logo, banner, and a compelling “About” section. Use tags and categories such as “music,” “songwriting,” or your genre to help new fans find you.
Define Your Content Mix: Decide if you’ll focus on song releases, essays, production diaries, event announcements, or a blend of these.
Sharing Music on Substack
Audio Integration Options
Embed Audio Files: Use Substack’s audio embed tool to upload MP3s or record directly into your post. You can add multiple audio tracks per post and place them anywhere in your content.
Podcast Episodes: Substack supports native podcasting, letting you release episodes or song commentaries as a series.
External Services: Paste links from Spotify or SoundCloud to generate interactive previews within your posts.
Step-by-Step: Adding Audio
In the post editor, click the headphones icon (“Audio embed”).
Upload an audio file or record directly.
Insert and position the audio player within your post.
Optionally, add context—share the story behind the song or invite feedback.
Content Strategies for Musicians
1. Release New Music First
Share new tracks with your Substack subscribers before releasing them elsewhere to reward your core supporters and build anticipation.
2. Share the Creative Process
Post demos, drafts, or “making-of” stories. Fans love insight into your songwriting and recording journey.
3. Curate and Collaborate
Feature other musicians, playlists, or guest essays to provide value and foster community.
4. Host Events and Announcements
Use Substack to announce gigs, livestreams, or release parties. The platform’s email function ensures your news lands directly in your fans’ inboxes.
5. Engage with Notes and Comments
Treat Notes like a social feed for quick updates, thoughts, or conversations. Respond to comments to deepen relationships.
Growing and Monetizing Your Audience
Start Free, Add Paid Tiers: Build your base with free content, then introduce paid subscriptions for exclusives like unreleased tracks, behind-the-scenes content, or early access.
Promote Your Substack: Share your newsletter on social media, your website, and at live shows. Use Substack’s search and “People” features to connect with other musicians and music fans.
Collaborate: Partner with other Substack creators for cross-promotions or guest posts to expand your reach.
Practical Tips
Be Consistent: Regular updates, even if short, keep your audience engaged and looking forward to your next post.
Stay Authentic: Write informally and honestly—fans appreciate a direct line to your thoughts and creative process.
Use Analytics: Track what content resonates most and refine your strategy accordingly.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Over-Paywalling: Don’t hide all your content behind a paywall—offer enough free value to attract and retain new subscribers.
Neglecting Interaction: Substack thrives on community. Respond to comments and encourage feedback to foster loyalty.
Forgetting Discoverability: Use tags, categories, and clear keywords to help new fans find your music and newsletter.
Conclusion
Substack offers musicians a powerful toolkit for sharing music, building community, and growing a sustainable career. By blending music releases with storytelling, interactive features, and authentic engagement, you can turn casual listeners into devoted fans—all while maintaining control over your audience and creative output.