Dear Angela:
I worked in a huge honky-tonk for over six years and met quite a few huge
country stars, so I have a good working knowledge of the country music scene
and what it takes to get where you want to go.
Starting a fan club is quite easy, and all it takes is some of your time.
But, first, you may want to re-think your idea about cutting a CD...it really
can be simple and inexpensive, if you have a few resources at your disposal.
In fact, if you have a microphone and a CD burner on your computer, that is
all you need to make a start. Now, the QUALITY will not be exceptional,
because you do not have someone mixing the sounds ... but, it will be pure,
and that could be very important. It's worth a shot, I say!
Now, for a fan club. You will need some professional photographs, probably
a website, and whatever promotional materials you deem necessary; such as
letterhead, envelopes, business cards and postcards. You will also need to set
up a separate bank account for the fan club.
For a website, take some time to view the fan club websites of other
country artists, so you can see what they are doing. There is software
available that you can purchase yourself and make a good run at a pretty
decent website.
For promotional materials, you are going to need to send letters to
"fans", asking them to join the fan club. Set an annual rate for the
club and stick with it. For marketing purposes, you may want to have an
introductory rate to start off with, to get some members quickly. When they
send in their money, you will need to have some type of registration document
for them -- probably a business card with their membership number on it, as
well as something that gives them a special feeling about being a member
(again, a promotional item that non-members cannot purchase, such as a bandana
with your daughter's picture ironed onto it, or something like that as well as
an autographed photo of your daughter). I also suggest monthly email updates
(using an eZine or eNewsletter) or quarterly letters mailed to the fan club
members so they will know how she's doing and what type of singing engagements
she's had. You have to really get egotistical about promoting her!
Make sure that you allow your daughter a lot of exposure, or else her fan
club will not go anywhere. Volunteer her for local and community events, and
while there, have fan club information available. She really needs to be seen
and heard, to get the type of exposure that will get her noticed locally, in
your state and ultimately in Nashville. Sign her up for talent contests, take
her to a singing coach, etc. She needs to work very hard to hone her talent
and she needs to do it in front of the public.
Gee, the list goes on and on for what you could be doing! I hope this helps
a bit. If she IS really good, you can bet that a fan club will help launch her
into some bigger and better opportunities! Best of luck,
About the PowerHomeBiz.com Guide:
Tammy Harrison is a successful
home-based working mom for over five years. She holds a degree from Mizzou in
Consumer Economics. Her business focuses on Marketing and Creativity for
Small Businesses For more information, you may contact her at