Just imagine a captive audience that is mesmerized by your music video. When was the last time you were absorbed into a music video? What was it about the production that drew you in and kept you there, soaking up the sounds, taking in the sights? That’s exactly what you want to achieve with your next music video. Learning how to pull it off with these suggested steps.
Plan Your Strategy
Without a plan, well…you know the rest. You may not be a “plan oriented” person. Many music artists are more inclined to fly by the seat of their pants. This is one time; however, that you might consider making an exception to the rule. Your plan should involve determining which of your accounts you want to involve so you can update and spruce them up a bit. For example, if your video will link to your website, make sure your site is updated.
First Impressions Matter
First impressions are more important than you may think. If you don’t get your audience’s attention in the initial few seconds, someone else will. Start with your best track or if you’re only playing one song, make sure it hooks your listener instantly. There are many ways you can achieve this feat. Start with the chorus. Begin with a catchy, attention-grabbing abstract noise. Sound off with drums. Put yourself in your listener’s place. Would you continue listening to the music? If not, make the necessary changes and if so, congratulations. You’re on the right track.
Make Music
Here’s the fun part. Do what you do…make music. Enjoy yourself and put your best foot forward. Be sure the sounds are crisp and clear. If you can swing it, rent a professional music studio”. Some studios offer the option of hiring a professional sound engineer who can make the most out of your time in the studio. The difference will be noticed so it’s worth the investment.
Critique the Music
It’s imperative to be your own critic when it comes to ensuring your music is the best it can be. Listen t the entire track or tracks and be honest with yourself. Is there any improvements you could make? Once you’ve accessed the music, ask others to do the same such as other musicians, family, friends, and others in your band. If there is anything you can do to make it better, do it.
What’s Your Story?
Every song has a narrative, and every band or solo artist has one too. It’s time to figure out what message the music on your video will be about so you can come up with visuals to go along with it. It’s important to be consistent with your story. If your video is totally opposite of what your band represents, you are likely to confuse your audience. That doesn’t mean you have to be in a box, far from it. But it’s a good idea not to contradict your band’s identity.
Decisions, Decisions
There will be important decisions to be made. Not only will you need to choose the song or songs on your video, but you’ll also need to decide what your video will be about. If you aren’t creative in the video realm, it would be wise to outsource that job. Even if you outsource, you will need to figure out a plot for your video. Make a script. Gather your characters and shoot the movie. Or you may prefer an abstract flick with little or no characters. Whichever way you go, it will pay off to make the video look as profession as possible so if you need to hire an expert, do so.
Consider Your Audience
If your audience is hard core rock, you may not want to risk a country or rap song. Stick with what you know for your video release and experiment later.
Executing Your Plan
Bringing the completed video and music together is the tricky part. If it doesn’t flow smoothly, it won’t be well-received. But if it does, new doors of opportunity may open for you. Be sure you set a mood and follow through with it. Colors, and fonts used, and of course the music and video content should follow the central theme.
Don’t Copy
Be sure your content is exclusive. Being original will earn you a top spot if you are able to pull it off but copying others will be a strike against you from the start. Furthermore, plagiarism can get you sued.
Produce Your Video
Now, it’s time to put it all together. Find a program worth of your video but don’t get one that’s too complicated or you may bite off more than you can chew. Then again, going too basic can be boring. Don’t skimp on special effects like captions and color bursts. Again, if you are not able to produce the kind of video you’d like to put out, hire someone who is.
Share Your Production
Last but certainly not least, get your video out there. That’s when it’s good to have promoted your production and researched sharing channels beforehand. Share the video on music video platforms but be sure to follow their guidelines so you don’t get ousted before your video even has a chance to be seen. Let friends, family, and other musicians watch and share it as well. You can even write up a press release or have one written for you to publicize your show. If you have a music marketing team, you’ll not have to worry about any of this. You can simply send it to those you want to share it with and leave the rest up to your marketing team.
Accessing the Final Product
Don’t be too hard on yourself once your music video is out. If it’s your first shot at it, that may be obvious. Make notes of things you’ll do differently next time. Look for the positive things and dwell on those. Be proud of your production. There once was a time when musicians didn’t have the opportunity to showcase their music like artists today are able to. Take advantage of what’s available and you’ll do well.