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Wednesday 13 February 2013

Using THe wEb

With over 2.5 billion users and counting the Internet is definitely the place to be for any Kenyan rock band. But its vastness can also be overwhelming so how does one get around this problem and set up a presence on the web?
First step, the obvious: social networking. You need to start talking and get other people to start talking about you and what better place to do so than social networks. Facebook, Twitter, tumblr all provide forums for interaction with fans as well as a means of conveying who you are to the world. There are even social sites dedicated exclusively to music such as purevolume, reverbnation and soundcloud. They all allow you to upload your music so that fans can sample it at a central place. Reverbnation even goes a step further helping bands get venues and gigs. And to top it all off its press kit helps artists manage their public image. And if you’re wondering if they are to be trusted, seasoned Kenyan rock bands such as LYT, Murfys flaw and Dove Slimme just to name a few already joined the band wagon.
Of course you could always start your own website. Although the cost of getting it done right might be a little steep at first it does provide the rock band with an exclusive marketing tool and complete discretion on what you can and cant do. A blog will be adequate if you’re only just starting out.
Now that you have the means down next comes the how. 2.5 billion Is a lot of people and standing out is priority number one. You are who you are and that must come out clearly. Working the Kenyan angle would go a long way in distinguishing you from the clutter and help local fans find you more easily. Be unique in sound image gimmick you name it. You don’t want to be one of those bands that sound and look like every other band; it’s a rock, after all, conformism is a definite no no.
It would be best to consult a professional when setting up a blog or website but if you go the Do-It-Yourself way then be careful not to include too much. Clutter is the last thing you want. And whatever you do don’t stop writing on it. It might seem obvious but that’s half the battle right there. The bands profiles on social networks and the website must be concise and to the point. I found that a bit of quirky humor goes a long way in leaving a lasting impression.
Now put finger to keyboard thus and commence thy laborious task.

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