Instagram Stories for Musicians

With over two billion users, Instagram is firmly entrenched as one of the premier social media platforms on the planet. One of Instagram’s most popular and powerful features is Instagram Stories, which allows users to create timely and dynamic content — exactly what musicians need to create an authentic, real-time connection with fans.

Born as a visual platform, Instagram is perfectly positioned to give artists and musicians the tools they need to engage with audiences and build their brands. In this post, we’ll break down what Stories are, why you should be using them, and offer some strategies for delivering great content to your Instagram following. Let’s dive in.

What Are Instagram Stories?

Launched in 2016, Instagram Stories are user-generated, vertical HD videos. Stories have a maximum runtime of 60 seconds, but they're often shorter to maximize engagement. Followers and profile visitors can watch your story by clicking on your profile icon, which is highlighted by an orange ring when you have a new Story posted.

Don’t confuse Instagram Stories with Instagram Reels, which are technically similar tools but used in different ways. Reels are publicly available short-form videos visible to anyone scrolling on the app — like a YouTube Short. In contrast, Stories are typically behind-the-scenes slices of life only available to followers and visitors, and disappear within 24 hours — more like Snapchat.

Tips for Effective Instagram Stories

The main reason to use Instagram Stories is to build a connection with your audience by delivering authentic, engaging content. Here are some tips to make sure your Stories deliver:

• Focus on authenticity. The most important thing is to be real. Modern audiences are overwhelmed with content, and they’re highly tuned to detect corporate-style manufactured fakeness. If you’re authentic, engaging, and fun, you can’t lose.
• Don’t oversell. It’s tempting to want to leverage this captive audience to push sales, but that's often counterproductive. Nobody kicks back and checks their Stories hoping to be inundated with thinly-veiled ads. If they like your music — and you — sales will come.
• Always caption your Stories. Your followers aren’t always in an audio-friendly environment. Make sure to use captions so they can still have some idea about what’s going on if they happen to be checking Instagram out in the world.
• Post every day. Like it or not, social media presence is part of your job as an aspiring musician. Post at least one story per day to keep fans engaged, though more might be better. Of course, you don’t want to overdo it, either. Track engagement metrics and find the right balance. Consistency is critical for success.
• Embrace personal branding. Along with the rest of your Instagram profile, your Stories are a great way to help audiences discover and embrace your brand. Don’t miss an opportunity to establish your persona and tone — as long as it’s authentic.

Instagram Stories: 7 Ideas to Get Started

Here are a few strategies to get started making compelling Stories — but don't limit yourself. Use your creativity and adapt this tool in ways that suit your style and brand. Just remember, authenticity is the name of the game.

1. Give a behind-the-scenes look

Everyone loves to go behind the scenes and see how the music is made. Stories are a great way to give fans a sneak peek into your artistic process including rehearsals, mixing sessions, or preparations for an upcoming show. Letting fans see you hard at work can only increase their appreciation of your tracks — and humanize you as an artist.

2. Preview new music

This one’s a no-brainer. Stories are the perfect way to introduce new content to your fans. Share teasers or snippets to create excitement and anticipation. And since stories are usually just for followers, content released here has the added benefit of feeling like an exclusive first-look at new material.

3. Show your real life

If fans like your work, they might be curious about your daily life away from music. You can create genuine human connection by showing fans your ups and downs, places that inspire you, your crazy pets, or just what you had for breakfast. You can even share your fears or admit a secret. If you’re in touch with your own brand, you’ll know what to do — trust your instincts.

4. Promote live performances

Stories are a great way to spread the word about where fans can see your live gigs. As your fans probably want to see you, you’re doing them a favor by letting them know where and when they can catch your act. Use a countdown to create urgency and excitement. Hopefully, you can pack a room with your people — no ads necessary.

5. Launch a regular series

In a chaotic world, audiences look to artists for consistency. You have an opportunity to be that stable voice in someone’s life. One way to do this is by creating a regular series. For example, you could showcase your track development process step-by-step over the course of weeks or months. By posting episodes at a specific time every week, you show fans your commitment, credibility, and professionalism — and let them know you’re someone they can count on.

6. Run a Instagram Stories contest

Instagram Story contests are another powerful tool for building engagement and excitement. You could give away simple merch or music, or possibly allow access to you through personal chats. Contests are a great way to be naturally engaging, and everyone loves to win. Talk to your distributor and see how they can help!

7. Learn about your audience

For real connections, audience interaction can’t be one-way. Fortunately, the Stories feature has several built-in tools to help you easily create a dialogue with fans. For example, you can use the question box to find answers, conduct polls to discover opinions, or set up a Q&A session for real-time dialogue. Build a genuine community and your fans will be with you forever.

Takeaway

Instagram Stories are a powerful tool for musicians to connect with followers, establish a brand, and create an authentic connection with fans. By sharing engaging and creative content, you can keep audiences locked in. Remember to stay consistent, have fun, and, most importantly, be real — your audience will love you for it.

If you’re an aspiring musician with a growing Instagram following — and you’re ready to take your music to the next level — it’s important to partner with someone whose expertise you can trust. Sugo Music Group has been helping artists distribute and publish their musical works worldwide for over 30 years. By working with one of the industry’s top leaders, you can get your music the exposure it deserves and become the musician you’ve always wanted to be.