Benjy Grinberg Shares 5 Smart Ways Independent Artists Can Stand Out

The music industry is more open than ever but is also more competitive. Artists, like everyone else, now have tools to distribute music globally. Industry figures like Benjy Grinberg often emphasize the importance of standing out, which takes more than talent.

Build A Unique Brand Identity

Your music is the core, but your brand is how people recognize you. Your style, voice, visuals, and message are all combined. To succeed, you must craft a brand that feels original and authentic.

Think about what you want people to feel when they hear your music or see your name. Are you a laid-back storyteller, a high-energy performer, or something new? Your visual aesthetic, social media tone, and cover art should all reflect this identity.

Don’t be afraid to be different. Sometimes the weird, quirky, or niche elements help an artist rise above the noise. Fans remember the artists who are consistent and true to themselves, not the ones who follow trends just to fit in.

In addition, make sure everything—your bio, website, social media, and photos—tells a cohesive story. It should be easy for someone to understand who you are and what you’re about within a few seconds. That’s how you make a strong impression.

Use Social Media Strategically

It’s not enough to be on social media—you must use it purposefully. Every platform works differently, so learn what type of content works best on each one. Instagram is great for polished visuals, TikTok favors short, raw video clips, and Twitter is perfect for quick updates or hot takes.

Don’t just promote; engage. Share your journey, post behind-the-scenes clips, talk about your writing process, or showcase snippets of new songs. Show the human behind the artist. People want to connect with personalities, not just content.

Consistency is also key. Posting regularly— daily or a few times a week—keeps you at the top of your mind. Algorithms reward activity, and fans appreciate it when you stay in touch. Schedule your posts in advance if needed, and don’t be afraid to experiment to see what clicks.

Also, use social media analytics. Learn which posts get the most likes, comments, and shares, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Strategic artists grow faster because they understand what works and what doesn’t.

Collaborate With Other Artists And Creators

Collaboration is one of the most effective ways to expand your audience. Whether it’s a joint song, a music video, a remix, or a shoutout, working with other creators brings you into new circles. It’s a win-win when both artists benefit from each other’s fan base.

Look for artists who align with your style or mission. You don’t need to aim for massive stars—in fact, working with peers or slightly more established acts can often lead to deeper, more genuine partnerships. Think long-term relationships, not just one-off features.

And don’t limit your collaborations to musicians—partner with visual artists, dancers, video editors, and influencers. A cool visual, a TikTok trend, or a creative concept video can take your song to places your audience wouldn’t reach otherwise.

Most importantly, approach collaborations with respect. Make sure both parties are excited and feel valued. A successful collab is built on shared goals, clear communication, and mutual respect.

Focus On Building A Loyal Fanbase, Not Just Going Viral

Everyone dreams of going viral, but virality can fade quickly. What truly sustains a music career is a loyal community of fans who believe in your music and want to support you. These people’ll stream your music repeatedly, buy your merch, and visit your shows.

Engage with your fans like they matter—because they do. Reply to DMs, thank people for sharing your music, and occasionally give shoutouts. Those little moments of interaction go a long way in turning casual listeners into super fans.

Platforms like Patreon, Bandcamp, and email newsletters are great ways to stay connected with your core audience. Offer them exclusives, such as unreleased tracks, behind-the-scenes content, or early access to merch. Make them feel like they’re part of something special.

The 1,000 True Fans theory is real. You don’t need millions of followers to succeed—you need a few hundred or thousand who genuinely care. Focus on the quality of connection, not just the quantity of reach.

Invest In Your Skills And Stay Consistent

Talent gets you noticed, but growth and discipline build careers. Continue to develop your skills, whether songwriting, vocal control, beat-making, or live performance. The better you get, the more confident and professional you’ll appear.

Consistency is what separates dreamers from doers. Release music regularly, post content consistently, and set short- and long-term goals. You don’t need to drop a single every week, but fans appreciate knowing you’re active and invested in your craft.

Also, invest in your live performance. Playing live is still one of the most powerful ways to build fans and generate income. Rehearse, get feedback, and study how successful artists captivate audiences. Performing well can set you apart from the many who only shine online.

Don’t forget to treat your music like a business. Learn about royalties, distribution, contracts, and rights. Being an independent artist means being your manager, marketer, and CEO. The more you know, the more power you have to shape your career.

Final Thoughts

Standing out in today’s music world takes more than talent; it takes intention, creativity, and consistency. The artists who succeed are the ones who treat their craft like a mission and their brand like a business. As Benjy Grinberg and other leaders in the music space often say, a smart strategy can make a good artist great. What steps will you take today to stand out from the crowd?