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August 22, 2025 30 mins

Most independent artists focus on building an audience, but the real power lies in developing a creative community. In this episode, I delve into the psychology behind transforming casual followers into passionate community members who view themselves as part of something larger.

Drawing insights from my recent interview with singer-songwriter Eli Lev and his "Levitators" community, I break down the key differences between audience building and creative community development. You'll discover why community names matter more than you think, how to move beyond social media performance theater, and practical strategies for creating authentic engagement that serves both you and your supporters.

I examine successful creative community examples from Trekkies to Swifties, revealing what makes certain community names stick while others fall flat. The episode also covers three core engagement strategies: collaborative content creation, meaningful interaction over metrics, and service orientation that benefits everyone involved.

This episode provides a four-step action plan for building a creative community. Because in today's music industry, success isn't measured by how many people know your name, but by how many people are better off because they found your work.

Recommended for independent musicians, content creators, and artists looking to create meaningful connections around their creative work. 

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Resources

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Mentioned in this Episode

Robonzo.com 

"1,000 True Fans" by Kevin Kelly 

332 Eli Lev – Spiritual Growth: From 250 Shows to Finding Sacred Space in Music 


Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

 

 

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