Time Is Running Out, Indie Artists!

We told you guys about our contest in this blog last month. Well, our song contest ends in just three days!

It's very easy to enter. Once you visit our page, you can enter in just four simple steps:

1) Record a song using any Bari Beat.

2) Upload your song to YouTube. Include 'Bari Beats Contest' in the title. Include http://www.BariBeats.com in the description.

3) Like our Facebook page and introduce yourself by dropping a comment on our wall.

4) Send an email to BariBeats@gmail.com with the subject 'Fall Contest Submission.' Include a one paragraph bio and the link to your YouTube video.

All of our prizes include Bari Beats. But the no. 1 winner will receive $500 cash, an exclusive month-long feature on our site, mixing and mastering for 16 tracks, a spot on our Bari Beats mixtape, and two 100% custom Bari Beats. We're basically giving away the farm to one deserving indie artist. We support the indie music industry--and we want to pick someone who shows promise, believes in their talent, and has true grit in the face of adversity. The more original you are, the better. We don't want to hear anything we've heard 100 times over.

Aside from the top prizes, we are also offering

• 2nd Prize​​: 8 exclusive Bari Beats and our music marketing manual​ 
• 3rd Prize: 4 exclusive Bari Beats 
• Consolation Prize: 1 exclusive Bari Beat

Remember--time is up this Thursday, Nov. 21, at midnight PST.

Google Dominates Online Music Marketing

Google is making everything all about Google+. Google drives the search engine results for many industries, including for how independent music recording artists are ranked. It’s not easy for many indie artists to reach the top spots on the first page of Google. And now, they’re pushing for Google+ to be at the center of it all. Pretty soon, you won’t even be able to leave YouTube comments without a Google+ account.

Read: Hypebot’s report

Although having many footprints on the web and social media will definitely help you move toward the rankings you want, Google is completely changing the game. Results will not be driven by what you think people are typing into the search box.

Read: Search Engine Journal’s report and Search Engine Watch’s report

So, why is this really important?

Well, Google wants to put users first and help them maximize their searches. For example, if people are searching for shows featuring indie artists in your area, it doesn't necessarily mean your name will pop up in the search now. Google will continue to shape the social footprint for rankings, and it’s best to get on board now instead of struggling to catch up later. There are a few ways you can start that process.

Use the tools you have

Many artists invest far too much into the “cooler” social media websites out there, such as Facebook and Twitter. Of course, these sites are sound investments, but Google will never let any of its products fail. In fact, Google+ is growing much faster than Twitter and has been for over a year now. The key to being successful on Google+ is by treating your page as a more professional profile—take it seriously like LinkedIn but have fun with it like Facebook. Post lots of pictures, make your updates, and join influential circles.

Start Learning SEO

There are so many reputable resources on how to create a SEO campaign that will really improve your rankings (we swear by The Moz Blog). Keep in mind that Google will judge you on the quality of your website content. So it’s important to frequently update your blog, bio, calendar for gigs, etc.

Invest a little cash

If you have some disposable income, then you can start a small campaign on Google Adwords and download the Adwords editor. The best way to maximize your Adwords results is by setting a realistic monthly budget upfront and monitoring your results weekly. Please keep in mind that it takes time to see results, and possibly longer since you’re going the DIY route and not using an agency. And Google’s customer service is actually pretty decent, so they’ll talk you through any concerns you have.

Last: If you’re not going to invest the time and research into Adwords, then don’t waste your money. There’s a reason some people get paid six figs to be a SEO expert.

If you’re already on Google+, leave your profile link in the comments so we can feature you in a later blog.

Attract Independent Record Labels by Promoting Your Show Online

Being an indie artist is not for the unambitious when trying to promote a show on the streets and through social media. But what you should keep in mind is that you need to sell your music during your performance, as well.

You can get the attention of top independent record labels while building a fan base beyond your local area. Streaming your show in real time is a no-brainer. But using new resources can help you build quality content and earn extra cash, too.

Recruit an intern, or two

Many people would love an opportunity to break into the music industry. If you have a website or Facebook profile, ask for volunteers to help with tasks such as live streaming your performance, or tweeting about your show in real time. Have them capture shots of you and the audience to put on Instagram. Interns can also interview fans after the show and write up a blog review. Now, you’ve got your bases covered before, during and after your performance.

In return for all their hard work, offer your interns some free gear and a solid recommendation.

Keep it professional

The worst media to stream is poor quality media. It makes you look amateurish to have terrible audio, pixelated video or dark photos. To avoid these issues, scope out the venue beforehand. Is the space big or small? Will the audience be sitting or standing? What is the color of the walls? Work with what you have by planning accordingly.

When in doubt, Stage It

Stageit.com has been around for a couple years now and has proven success for many indie artists. Although the concept is to raise online concert sales to help performers earn more cash, another plus is that sites like Stage It will help you gain new fans.

Concert Window is another newish website that hosts live concerts for indie artists. The cool thing about this site is that you can interact with fans during your performance. So those watching feel like they’re actually there with you.

Been there, done that

Have you already recorded, tweeted or Instagrammed your show? Send us the link in the comments and tell us about your experience.