If I offered to give you a boatload of money to fund your music career, it would be kind of a no-brainer, right?
It’s why things like grants or artist accelerators are so popular. They give young and emerging artists both the platform and the funds to take something incredible and scale it on a national (or international) level. Independent artists have more power than ever and Artist Accelerators seek to enhance that. In this evolving landscape, accelerators have emerged as a crucial lifeline for musicians, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, exposure, and community engagement. In this article we’re looking at why they’re so powerful, and a few you can even join today!
Empowering Emerging Artists
The Artist Accelerator Program is more than just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer for budding musicians. It provides a structured framework through which artists can hone their skills, gain visibility, and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for music. By offering resources such as weekly streamer grants, performance showcases, and even opportunities to play massive festivals, they can literally change your career. One accelerator that offers these things is Volume.com which boasts an extensive venue network across the US, and equips artists with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.
A Gateway to Performance Opportunities
Artist Accelerators don’t just give you money, they give you opportunities, which in many ways can be even more valuable. Let’s look at the A&R Foundation in Austin, TX. A newly launched accelerator, their tagline of “turning passions into sustainable businesses” is the cornerstone of their mission—to provide independent musicians access to the tools and resources they need to thrive in the music business. Plus, it’s all completely free. They’re about to kick off with a Launch Party in Austin, TX on August 26th, and after that begin to roll out their first set of (free) workshops for indie artists, so sign up to their email list to be kept in the loop!
If we look at Volume again, one of the standout features of Volume.com’s Artist Accelerator Program is the unique chance it offers artists to perform at renowned music festivals. Take, for instance, the opportunity to grace the stage at the BeachLife Ranch Festival in Redondo Beach, CA. For musicians looking to make their mark on the live performance circuit, this is an invaluable opportunity. The exposure gained from such events can be a catalyst for a musician’s career, opening doors to wider recognition and further performance opportunities, and simply signing up and streaming offers you a chance at performing there.
A True Artist-First Platform
Oftentimes these kinds of accelerators are offered by platforms that know, love, and are made up of indie artists and/or those who have been serving indie artists for decades, making them an ideal place to grow and connect. Even institutions that you wouldn’t normally think of like Mastercard’s Artist Accelerator are well connected (offering ties to Billboard) and can be a huge asset for musicians.
With any accelerator, it’s not just about providing a stage for musicians to showcase their talents – it’s about creating an ecosystem that supports growth, monetization, and community engagement. This holistic approach empowers artists to take control of their creative journey and financial destiny.
The Digital Revolution of Music
In a world where digital platforms have reshaped how music is consumed and shared, artist accelerators are essential for helping musicians navigate the digital landscape. Even for artists who know how to use things or that they’re supposed to (like, for instance, posting to social media) actually coming up with the content ideas and executing it in a way that promotes fan engagement can be an uphill battle. This is something A&R Foundation touches on in its programs as well as Volume.com’s ability to offer easy ticketing, subscription models, and monetization options to ensure that musicians of all abilities can find ways to sustain their careers.
The Road Ahead: The Need for More Artist Accelerators
As the music industry continues to evolve, the need for artist accelerators becomes even more apparent. The challenges that emerging artists face in an oversaturated digital realm are numerous – from breaking through the noise to finding viable revenue streams. Accelerator programs like the ones mentioned here bridge the gap between passion and profession, offering a lifeline to artists who might otherwise struggle to find their footing.
Final thoughts
For musicians looking to elevate their careers and seize opportunities that can propel them to new heights, programs like Volume.com’s Artist Accelerator Program or A&R Foundation’s free Artist Programs are a testament to the industry’s ability to adapt and thrive in the digital age.