Why Sharing More Than Just Your Music Online Matters as an Artist
How Building Personal Connections Amplifies Your Brand and Fan Base
When it comes to engaging with fans online, many artists struggle with a common question: Should my content ONLY focus on my music, or is it okay to share aspects of my personal life too? Bree Noble, host of the Female Entrepreneur Musician Podcast, tackled this topic in a recent solo episode, drawing on her experiences both as an artist and music industry mentor. Her insights reveal why being more than just a musician online can earn deeper loyalty and grow your audience in meaningful new ways.
It’s Not Just About the Music—It’s About YOU
A common misconception among artists is that fans are only interested in tour dates, new releases, or videos of them performing. While updates on those are important, fans are ultimately drawn to the people behind the songs. Bree emphasizes that your music “does not and should not exist in a vacuum.” So much of what makes someone a “fan” is about connection—they’re curious about who you are, what inspires you, and what makes you relatable.
Think about the last concert you went to: Did you connect to the music alone, or was it the artist’s stories, quirks, or shared experiences that left a lasting impression? The same principles apply online. Sometimes, someone discovers your music first, but even more often nowadays, fans find YOU first—through personalities, stories, or values shared on social media. That genuine connection can lead them to fall in love with your music.
Differentiation and Connection: Two Sides of Your Artist Brand
Bree breaks down the concept of artist branding into two main components:
1. Differentiation
This is about what makes you unique—your quirks, special talents, or style. It answers the question: Why should someone care about your music versus another artist in your genre?
2. Connection Points
Just as critical, this is about what makes you relatable. What do you share with your audience beyond the music itself? What makes fans see themselves in you?
Too many artists focus solely on differentiation but miss out on building bridges through personal connection. It’s those connection points that turn casual listeners into die-hard fans.
Three Types of Connection Points
So, how do you foster that connection? According to Bree, it boils down to three types of “connection points”:
1. Identities
These are the roles or labels you identify with. Examples include: “I’m a mom,” “I’m a Southern Californian,” “I’m a 50-something female,” or even “I love 80s music.” When you share these parts of yourself, people with similar identities feel a spark—“She’s like me!” It can be deeply bonding, especially when you get specific.
2. Values
Unlike identities, you don’t necessarily announce your values outright—they show up in your stories, photos, and the way you interact online. Maybe you value freedom, family, authenticity, spirituality, or financial success. When fans pick up on these, it fosters subconscious trust and resonance. They begin to feel like they “get you,” sometimes even without knowing why.
3. Beliefs
Beliefs are the causes or ideas you stand for. Sharing these can rally others to your side—whether it’s a social cause, a perspective on the music industry, or even your local community involvement. While sharing beliefs can sometimes mean others don’t agree (and that’s okay!), it attracts a tribe who shares your perspective.
Why Sharing More Feels Natural (Not Egotistical)
Musicians often worry that sharing personal stories or photos is self-centered. In reality, the more your content blends the music with the authentic story of your life, the *less* it comes across as egotistical. Only posting about your releases or shows can actually feel more “me, me, me.” By chronicling your life—including your music, travels, family, pets, or hobbies—you invite fans on a journey.
Don’t fear sharing the ordinary, either. Bree notes that everyday moments—like sunsets at your family cabin or your latest kitchen creation—help fans feel like they know the *person* behind the artistry. Start small if you feel shy. A little vulnerability goes a long way.
Making It Part of Your Routine
You don’t have to overhaul your entire online presence overnight. Start integrating personal content bit by bit. As Bree suggests, share what feels right and expand from there. The more you open up, the more fans will engage not just with your music, but with your story, your values, and your journey.
Remember: The artist they listen to on Spotify and the person they cheer for online can—and should—be the same. That’s what transforms an audience into a loyal, supportive community.