The Fastest Way to Build Real Fans
Fun Fact: Only 1-5% of your followers actually engage with your content, but personal messages and replies can have 10x the impact.
If you would say thank you in real life, why not do it online?
So many artists stress about going viral. They’re chasing views, hoping one post will magically change everything. But here’s the truth: the fastest way to build real fans is way simpler: just talk to people.
Here’s how to do it:
Reply to every comment like it’s someone who just walked up to you after your show.
DM new followers and thank them for supporting you.
Start convos with people who save or share your content. They already like what you’re doing.
Say thank you to people at shows. Shake hands. Make eye contact. Give them a token of appreciation like a sticker.
This builds loyalty. It makes your audience feel seen. And it turns passive followers into real supporters.
Take an artist like Russ. He didn’t blow up overnight. He built his fanbase one message, one thank-you, and one show at a time. He responded to comments, DMs, and stayed connected to his fans even when his audience was small. That realness created superfans who stuck around long before the mainstream caught on.
Another great example is LaRussell. He built a movement by engaging directly with fans. Thanking them, inviting them to shows at his backyard venue, and turning every interaction into a chance to connect. He’s proof that authenticity and accessibility can build something real and lasting.
At the end of the day, 10 real connections will always matter more than 10,000 views.
Keep showing up — and talk to your people.
