Picture this: anything from the latest headphones to music festivals, even new streaming services, catching fire online. Who’s often behind these trends? Music influencers. They’re the ones with the power to make or break products, events, and experiences in the music world, not just songs.
So, what is a music influencer? Think of them as your go-to sources for what’s hot and what’s next. Whether they’re crafting viral dances on TikTok, diving into the details on YouTube, or setting the vibe with their Instagram stories, these influencers have the ears — and eyes — of thousands, if not millions, who trust their tastes.
In this article, we’ll explain who these influencers are and how you can collaborate with them to amplify pretty much anything music-related. Ready to learn how to catch the beat and make some noise? Let’s hit play and get started!
Understand influencers’ impact
Music influencers are the trendsetters of the digital music playground. They can take a song from being your little secret to everyone’s favorite tune in no time. But their power doesn’t stop at music; they can also make a pair of headphones, a music festival, or even a new app the next big thing. When a music influencer shares something, it doesn’t just get seen — it gets noticed. They have this special ability to make their followers feel like they’re in on something cool, which can totally change how people think about music and gadgets, events, services, etc.
Choose the right music influencer
Finding the perfect music influencer is a bit like matchmaking. You want someone whose style feels right with what you’re all about. If your music or product has a laid-back, beachy vibe, partnering with a high-energy hip hop dancer might not click as well. Start by digging into what the influencer is all about — their likes, their crowd, and their vibe. It’s not just about big numbers. It’s about finding someone who talks to the right people in the right way.
Build strong relationships with music influencers
Think of working with a music influencer as starting a band. You’re in it together, and it’s all about harmony. Start by really getting what they need. Maybe they want creative freedom, or they want to be the first to introduce your new product. Show them that you’re listening and that you value their input. Keep the conversation going. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and just saying a quick “hey, loved your last post!” can go a long way. And remember, this isn’t a one-hit-wonder situation. You’re building a partnership that can grow and evolve.
Engagement strategies
Engaging with music influencers is all about playing to their strengths. Got dance shoes or sneakers? TikTok’s your stage. For an in-depth review or a how-to guide, YouTube is king. Instagram is great for those eye-catching visuals and stories. Work with your music influencer or your agency to figure out which platform best suits the content you want to promote. Then, tailor your approach. Maybe it’s a challenge, a special hashtag, or an exclusive sneak peek. Whatever it is, make it fun and make it shareable. Remember that Famesters is always ready to assist and bring our expertise in various industries and regions to your table!
Contracts and agreements
Think of this like setting the ground rules before starting a band. You wouldn’t just pick up your guitar and start jamming without knowing who does what, right? That’s where a good old handshake (or in today’s world, a contract) comes in. This isn’t about bogging things down with legalese — it’s about making sure everyone knows who’s playing which part, what’s cool to share, and how the magic happens. This way, everyone’s protected, and there’s no room for misunderstandings. It’s about keeping the vibes good and the tunes flowing smoothly.
Here’s a free influencer contract template crafted by the Famesters legal team to help you: get your copy.
Monitoring impact
Now, how do you know if your sweet collaboration is hitting the right notes? It’s all about keeping an eye on the crowd — are they loving it? You’ll want to keep track of how many new fans are tuning in, how often your brand gets mentioned, and how your sales are doing. Whether you’re using special tools or just checking out the likes and comments, what matters is you’re watching what happens. This lets you see if your duet is a chart-topper or if it’s time to remix things.
Don’t forget you have to have KPIs set beforehand so that you can track all the relevant metrics! This article will help you: How to set and measure influencer marketing KPIs
Feedback and adjustment
Here’s where you keep your ear to the ground. Feedback isn’t just about hearing the cheers; it’s about listening when things could be better. Maybe consumers are saying they want more, or they’re digging one of your products over another. Check in with your influencer partner, too. Maybe they’ve got ideas on how to amp up your next ad. This part of the journey is about tuning in, tweaking your approach, and making sure the next product or service is even more fire. Remember, each collaboration is a chance to learn, adapt, and hit even harder next time.
These people are no pop stars, they don’t get recognized on the streets daily, nor are they billionaires or celebrities like Rihanna, Beyonce, or Kanye West. They are specifically influencers, internet personalities, making waves on social media platforms, sahring their artistic lives, educating music enthusiasts, and helping brand promotion.
Adam Neely (YouTube)
Who he is: Adam Neely explores music theory, bass lessons, and quirky musical questions that engage a wide range of music enthusiasts.
Content highlights: His videos often delve into the technical aspects of music but are presented in an accessible and entertaining way. His famous video “Why is the lick so irritating?” delves into a common jazz riff used frequently in music.
For brands: Adam’s educational and detailed approach makes him ideal for music education platforms, apps, or instrument brands looking to connect with a musically inquisitive audience.
Marc Rebillet (YouTube)
Who he is: Marc Rebillet is known for his improvised musical sets that feature a mix of electronic music, humor, and interaction with his audience.
Content highlights: Marc streams live performances where he builds songs from scratch using loop stations, keyboards, and often hilarious lyrics.
For brands: His unique, spontaneous style is great for brands involved in musical equipment, streaming services, or any brand looking for a bold and creative promotional campaign.
Rick Beato (YouTube)
Who he is: Rick Beato is a musician, music producer, and educator who creates content that includes tutorials, music theory, and song analysis.
Content highlights: His series “What Makes This Song Great?” breaks down the musical components of popular tracks. Often, he holds interviews with popular musicians, as well as new ones, and talks about the music industry.
For brands: Rick’s in-depth analysis is ideal for audio technology companies, educational music platforms, or any brand seeking to establish credibility with a musically literate audience.
Who she is: Queen Ife is known for creating music from unconventional objects, bringing a unique twist to her Afrobeat creations.
Content highlights: She demonstrates how to make beats and rhythms using everyday items, blending creativity with music production tutorials.
For brands: Her inventive approach is appealing for brands looking for innovative and sustainable marketing campaigns.
@its.queen.ife_ Cooking up. #DolePartner #YourNextSnackObsession @Dole Packaged Foods #Ad ♬ original sound – Queen Ife
Andrew Huang (YouTube, Instagram)
Who he is: Andrew Huang is a prolific music producer known for his experiments with music technology and sound design.
Content highlights: He challenges himself to create tracks from non-traditional sources, like “making a beat out of a pumpkin,” and offers tutorials on music production techniques.
For brands: Andrew’s deep dive into music tech makes him an ideal partner for brands selling musical instruments, software, or tech gadgets, offering a fun and educational angle to their products.
Rob Scallon (YouTube, another YouTube channel, Instagram)
Who he is: A musician known for his guitar and banjo skills, Rob Scallon often explores unusual instruments and music-making methods.
Content highlights: He posts performances, challenges, and experiments with different musical styles and instruments, often bringing a humorous and inventive twist to his content.
Potential for brands: Suitable for guitar brands, music tech companies, and any brand looking for innovative and entertaining music content to capture a diverse audience.
Aimee Nolte (YouTube)
Who she is: A jazz singer and pianist who produces educational content, focusing on jazz theory, piano techniques, and singing advice.
Content highlights: Aimee offers in-depth tutorials and performances that delve into complex music theories and techniques with an accessible approach.
Potential for brands: Perfect for piano and microphone manufacturers, as well as educational platforms seeking to reach a more musically sophisticated audience.
Mary Spender (YouTube, Instagram)
Who she is: A singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her weekly Tuesday Talks, where she discusses guitar gear, songwriting, and the music industry.
Content highlights: Mary combines performances with educational content, providing insights into the process of songwriting and guitar playing.
Potential for brands: Ideal for brands in the guitar industry, music education, and lifestyle sectors that value deep dives into music creation and artist lifestyle.
Adam Mishan (YouTube, Instagram)
Who he is: Adam Mishan is a vocal coach who uses his platforms to offer singing tips and voice transformation insights.
Content highlights: Adam frequently posts before-and-after singing videos demonstrating vocal improvements, which effectively showcase his teaching skills and methods. His content is highly engaging, often involving reactions to popular singers and practical advice for improving vocal techniques.
Potential for brands: Ideal for music education platforms, vocal training apps, and microphone brands looking for a credible figure to enhance their visibility among aspiring singers and music enthusiasts.
Samuraiguitarist (YouTube)
Who he is: Steve Onotera, known as Samuraiguitarist, is a YouTuber who blends his love for music with creative and quirky guitar-centric videos.
Content highlights: His content ranges from covers and original songs to musical challenges and gear reviews. He is known for his unique approach to music, often incorporating unconventional methods and humorous elements into his guitar playing.
Potential for brands: Great for guitar manufacturers, music tech gadgets, and lifestyle brands that aim to connect with audiences through innovative and entertaining music content. His ability to creatively showcase musical instruments makes him a valuable partner for promotional campaigns.
And there you have it — the top tunesmiths and trendsetters of the online music scene! These influencers are more than just voices or faces on your screen; they’re gateways to audiences that hang on their every note and beat. Whether you’re looking to launch a new product, boost your brand, or just make some noise in the digital world, teaming up with one of these music maestros can amplify your message and tune into success.
Ready to turn up the volume on your brand’s reach? Contact the Famesters influencer marketing agency, let us find your perfect match and start creating marketing magic that hits all the right notes! Let’s make some noise and shake up the music industry together. Reach out at [email protected]!