Brian “Z” Zisook

I deeply appreciate when people reply with a quick ‘no.’ Hearing ‘no’ is normal—it’s part of the game. But a fast response shows respect for someone’s time, and that goes a long way.

A great executive once told me: “Some songs are ‘recorded hits,’ some are ‘performative hits.’ The rare ones are both—the kind that a room of strangers can sing along to by the second hook.”

Tyler, The Creator has pulled off one of the most brilliant artistic evolutions of the modern era—a masterclass in authenticity and reinvention. Longevity personified.

Hack: All developing artists should curate a UGC playlist on streaming services featuring their music. It can…

1. Attract new listeners
2. Boost algorithmic connections
3. Drive discovery
4. Showcase your inspirations or amplify your peers

First-week “sales” are a relic of the CD era when urgency drove in-person physical purchases. In the streaming era, music is ALWAYS AVAILABLE, removing that sense of urgency. The game has changed. What matters now:

• Quality
• Consistency
• Catalog

In the CD era, poor sales could spell the end of an artist’s career—dropped by their label, unlikely to be heard from again. But in the Streaming Era? The door is never closed. Artists can rebuild, reinvent, and be rediscovered.

Don’t lock yourself into a long-term publishing deal with an untested partner—unless it guarantees post-tax generational wealth. For admin deals, specifically, prioritize a partner that provides protection and collections today while giving you flexibility for the future.

3. Fan-Led Interview: Collect fan questions and answer them on video or in text form on social media. Reward selected fans with something small but meaningful (i.e. exclusive merch or a shoutout/tag).

2. Fan Reaction Video: Before your release the album, share a private link to an unreleased song with 10-20 fans. Ask them to film their first reaction and send it back. Compile the best clips into a reaction montage for your socials.

1. Performance Content: Film yourself performing 2-3 focus tracks in settings that match the album’s vibe. Lip syncing works—just focus on visuals that bring the music to life or help further tell your story. Share to TikTok, Reels, Shorts, etc.

Artists: You’ve released an album, but your post-release marketing budget is tight (or nonexistent).

Here are 3 simple, effective drivers that can work whether you’re a developing artist or already established. 🧵

Doechii dropped her project on August 30 and has been relentless in promoting it ever since—performances, content, and nonstop engagement on social. Everyone loves to debate album rollouts, but in the Streaming Era, post-release marketing is what truly drives success.

Like clockwork, the calendar turns to December, and nobody in the music industry wants to do any work lol

I love albums. But artists, you don’t need to release albums. You can be successful without releasing albums. I explain…

Many record labels who conducted layoffs over the past 18 months are already hiring again.

Artists, looking to boost discoverability and get better algorithmic placement?

Include a secondary Primary Genre in your metadata!

Examples:

• Latin, Regional Mexican
• Alternative, Rock
• Hip-Hop, Gangsta Rap
• World, Afrobeats
• Dance, Amapiano
• Reggae, Dancehall

#MusicTips