Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shane Foster. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shane, appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Earning a full-time living as an independent artist and digital marketer in today’s music industry is a viable and exciting prospect. This entrepreneurial path requires strategic use of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), social media platforms, and digital marketing tools that can increase visibility, audience engagement, and ultimately, revenue. One of the key strategies is to leverage SEO to optimize your online presence. By incorporating high-traffic keywords related to the music industry, independent artists can improve their ranking in search engine results, making it easier for potential fans and customers to discover their music. Keywords such as “new music”, “indie artist”, “music streaming”, and “live performances” can significantly boost online visibility.
In addition to SEO, digital marketing plays a significant role in the growth of an independent artist. Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter not only helps artists share their work but also allows them to connect directly with their audience. Regular updates, behind-the-scenes content, and direct fan engagement are all part of successful digital marketing strategies.
Ultimately, transforming your passion for music into a full-time career as an independent artist and digital marketer involves a balance of creativity, strategic planning, and consistent digital engagement. It’s a pathway that offers unique challenges and rewards, powered by the immense potential of contemporary digital tools.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hello everyone, I am an independent artist and digital marketer, thriving in the vibrant music industry. My journey began as a passionate musician, dedicated to creating music that resonates with listeners. However, I soon realized that in today’s digital age, it’s simply not enough to just make great music. Artists also need to master the art of marketing to stand out in the saturated music scene. This led me to delve into the world of SEO and digital marketing. I provide a range of services, from creating soulful music to offering strategic digital marketing solutions for other independent artists. In this dual role, I aim to solve the quintessential problem most artists face today: visibility. By using powerful digital tools and platforms, I help artists enhance their online presence, connect with their audience, and turn their passion into a profitable career.
What sets me apart is my hands-on experience in both fields. As an artist, I understand the creative process and the need for individuality. As a marketer, I am well-versed in the techniques required to establish a strong digital footprint.
The achievement I take the most pride in is managing to bridge the gap between art and business, allowing me to pursue my passion while also making a sustainable living. I want my potential clients and fans to know that I’m not just a musician or a marketer, but a blend of both. I leverage my unique experiences to deliver captivating music and effective marketing strategies, helping others in the industry achieve their dreams. Remember, in this digital age, your music is the art, and marketing is how you show it to the world.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Looking back at my creative journey, there are a number of resources I wish I had discovered sooner. Firstly, digital distribution platforms from the major labels like Vydia and Empire, which simplify the process of getting music on major streaming platforms. Secondly, services like SubmitHub and Playlist Push, which are crucial for getting your music in front of playlist curators and expanding your reach. Additionally, music production software such as Logic Pro X and Pro-Tools would have been game-changers in the early stages of my career, as they offer a wide array of production tools to polish and enhance the sound. Also, marketing tools like Google Analytics and Hootsuite, which provide valuable insights about audience engagement and help plan effective marketing strategies.
Finally, online learning platforms like Coursera and MasterClass offer numerous courses on music production, songwriting and digital marketing, which I believe would have greatly benefited my career development before attending college. I hope these resources will be helpful to other aspiring artists and marketers, and they won’t have to learn about them the long hard way, as I did.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an independent artist with extensive digital marketing experience and a major publishing deal is undoubtedly the creative freedom and control it affords. Unlike many artists constrained by record labels, as an independent artist, I have full autonomy over my music— from the songwriting process to the final production. This freedom allows me to create music that is truly reflective of my identity and vision. Coupled with my digital marketing background, I can devise and implement customized marketing strategies that best represent my brand, enabling me to connect with my audience on a deeper level. Furthermore, having a major publishing deal ensures that my music reaches a wider audience, expanding my influence and providing me with more opportunities. In essence, this unique combination provides me with the best of both worlds, allowing me to express my creativity without constraints, while also ensuring that my music gets the exposure it deserves.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dfdmusic.com
• Instagram: @iamshanefoster
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shane.deangelo
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/foster2023/