How to Get on the Billboard Charts: Who to Hire and What You Can Do on Your Own
For many artists and record labels, getting on the Billboard charts is a significant milestone. It represents not only commercial success but also serves as a benchmark of cultural impact. While achieving this goal may seem like a daunting task, breaking it down into actionable steps and understanding who you need on your team can make it much more attainable. Below, we’ll explore how to maximize your efforts and resources to position yourself or your artist for Billboard chart success.
Understand the Billboard Charts
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand how the Billboard charts work. Billboard tracks music popularity across various metrics, including sales (both physical and digital), streaming numbers, and radio airplay. Each chart has its criteria, such as the Hot 100 focusing on singles or the Billboard 200 for albums. Recognizing how the charts are calculated allows you to create a focused strategy tailored to your goals.
Build Your Team: Who You Must Hire
Success in the music industry often requires collaboration with experienced professionals. Here are some key players you’ll need to work with to ensure your chances of charting:
1. Music Producer
A music producer is critical in shaping the overall sound of your project. The right producer will help you craft music that is not only high-quality but also has commercial appeal. A polished and radio-friendly track is more likely to resonate with listeners and earn spots on playlists, radio rotations, and ultimately, the charts.
When choosing a producer, seek out individuals with a proven track record of working on successful projects. Look for someone who understands your genre and can help you create music that connects with your target audience.
2. Mixing and Mastering Engineers
Quality production is only part of the equation. Your music also needs to sound impeccable from a technical perspective. A skilled mixing engineer will balance the individual elements of your track, while a mastering engineer ensures your music is optimized for playback across various formats and platforms. Poor sound quality can deter listeners, which could harm your charting potential.
3. Radio Promoter
Radio airplay remains a key factor in chart performance, especially for the Billboard Hot 100. A radio promoter will help pitch your song to program directors and ensure it gets spins on relevant stations. This professional should have strong industry relationships and experience with securing airplay in your genre.
4. Publicist
A publicist is responsible for generating buzz around your music and brand. They can secure interviews, press coverage, and features in influential outlets that expand your reach and credibility. The more attention your release garners, the higher the chances of gaining streams, sales, and airplay—all of which contribute to chart performance.
5. Social Media Manager
In today’s music landscape, social media plays a vital role in connecting with fans and promoting your releases. A skilled social media manager will help craft and execute campaigns that generate engagement and excitement around your project. They can also use analytics to refine your strategy and ensure you’re reaching the right audience.
6. Digital Marketing Specialist
Streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music play a massive role in charting. A digital marketing specialist can help you run targeted ad campaigns, land placements on curated playlists, and optimize your presence on streaming platforms. These efforts can drive up your numbers and increase your chances of charting.
What You Can Do on Your Own
While hiring professionals can significantly increase your chances of success, there’s still plenty you can handle on your own to cut costs and maintain control over your project. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Create a Release Strategy
Before releasing your music, develop a detailed plan that includes your release date, marketing timeline, and promotional activities. Timing is crucial—consider factors such as the best day of the week to drop your music (Friday is standard for industry releases) and whether your release will compete with other major artists.
2. Build and Engage Your Fan Base
One of the most important factors in chart success is having a dedicated and engaged fan base. Focus on growing your audience by consistently releasing content, interacting with fans on social media, and fostering a personal connection with your listeners. Loyal fans are more likely to stream, purchase, and share your music, boosting your numbers across all metrics.
3. Distribute Your Music Strategically
Choose a reputable distribution service that will place your music on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Some distributors also offer features such as playlist pitching and analytics, which can give you additional insights and opportunities for exposure.
4. Leverage Social Media and Video Platforms
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are powerful tools for promoting your music. Create engaging content that encourages fans to listen to and share your songs. TikTok, in particular, has become a major driver of chart success; a viral trend or challenge featuring your music can lead to a significant boost in streams.
Additionally, YouTube remains a key platform for music discovery. Upload official music videos, lyric videos, and behind-the-scenes content to connect with your audience and increase your visibility.
5. Encourage Pre-Saves and Pre-Orders
Pre-saves and pre-orders are critical for building momentum leading up to your release. Encourage your fans to pre-save your music on streaming platforms or pre-order physical copies. These actions are often counted toward your first-week numbers, giving you a strong start on the charts.
6. Collaborate with Other Artists
Collaborations can introduce your music to a broader audience and generate excitement around your release. Partnering with artists who have an established fan base in your genre can amplify your reach and increase your chances of charting.
7. Engage with Curators
Playlists play a significant role in driving streams. Reach out to independent playlist curators who create popular playlists in your genre. A placement on the right playlist can lead to thousands—or even millions—of additional streams.
8. Host Live Events or Virtual Performances
Live performances are an excellent way to promote your music and connect with fans. Whether you’re performing at local venues or hosting virtual concerts on platforms like Instagram Live, these events can help you generate buzz and increase your fan base.
9. Track and Analyze Your Progress
Use analytics tools provided by platforms like Spotify for Artists and Apple Music for Artists to track your streams, listener demographics, and other key metrics. Understanding your performance can help you refine your strategy and focus on what’s working.
10. Submit to Music Blogs and Magazines
Music blogs and online magazines can help you reach new audiences and gain credibility. Many of these outlets accept submissions directly from artists, so take the time to research and pitch your music to sites that align with your style.
Combine Efforts for Maximum Impact
Getting on the Billboard charts requires a combination of creativity, strategy, and persistence. While some aspects of the process may require professional help, there’s a lot you can do independently to increase your chances of success. By balancing your resources effectively and focusing on what matters most—creating great music and connecting with your audience—you can work toward achieving this significant milestone.
Remember, charting on Billboard is not just about one release. It’s about building a career, growing your presence, and consistently delivering music that resonates with listeners. Stay committed, stay focused, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey.