When you consider the polished visuals, curated reels, and professionally edited music videos that every artist posts, it’s easy to believe that perfection is what drives fan growth.
But this is not always the case.
The truth may piss you off, but what gets attention isn’t always what builds connection.
And connection — not just attention — is what keeps fans coming back.
The Illusion of “Just Music”
You might think your music should speak for itself. After all, you’re a recording artist and that’s the main product, right?
But wake up homie, this 2025. Music only, is not enough. let’s be honest:
Every fan has access to unlimited tracks at their fingertips. They’re not short on music. They’re short on emotionally rooted reasons to care about you.
Here’s where behind-the-scenes content comes in.
Why “BTS” Isn’t Just Bonus Content But Part of The Main Meal
Behind-the-scenes content isn’t fluff or “extra.”
It’s the most human, most sticky, and often most strategic form of storytelling available to you as an artist.
Why?
Because BTS pulls back the curtain. It lets fans experience the process, not just the product. And in an attention economy flooded with perfection, process is what feels real.
When fans:
- Watch you struggling through a vocal take,
- Laugh with you while you’re building a beat,
- Hear you explain why a lyric matters to you personally,
…they feel something deeper than admiration. They feel bonded.
The Psychology Behind It
Okay, let’s get scientific for a second.
Neuroscience shows that people form stronger emotional connections with stories than with facts or outcomes.
Behind-the-scenes content activates the brain’s mirror neurons. This makes fans feel like they’re part of your journey.
As a result, they feel like they helped you make it and you know, nobody readily turns back on what to help build.
That loyalty translates to longevity. Priceless.
So What Should You Show?
If you’re wondering what kind of behind-the-scenes content connects, here’s a non-cliché breakdown:
1. Creative Chaos
Let them see you stuck on a line. Show the false starts. Let the camera catch your frustration when a hook just won’t land. Ironically, this vulnerability builds more credibility than pretending you’re always “on.”
2. Studio Rituals
Do you light a candle before recording? Say a prayer? Wear lucky socks? Or do you pour some libation to the gods of music? Perhaps you light a spliff in honour of Bob Marley. These small things feel personal. And in an oversaturated market, personal is rare.
3. Team Energy
Introduce the people behind the scenes. Shout out your producer. Show your team reacting to a beat drop. It builds a sense of community around your art.
In summary, let fans root for your whole ecosystem, not just you.
4. Why This Song?
Break down what the song means to you. Not in a press release but in your own words, casually. On IG Story. While walking. While recording.
Giving context to your music gives it more weight.
But I Don’t Have a Videographer or Team…
Good news: You don’t need one. BTS is not about high production value. In fact, overproduction can kill the authenticity.
Use your phone. Use voice overs. Shoot short vertical clips.
Authenticity supersedes aesthetic, always.
Lo-fi is the new luxury when it’s emotionally rich.
Consistency Without Burnout
One BTS post a week is a great place to start. Here’s a quick example plan:
- Week 1: A 30-second clip of you reworking a chorus in the studio.
- Week 2: A voiceover explaining a lyric while showing your notes.
- Week 3: Footage of a jam session or brainstorming session.
- Week 4: A “meet the team” post: producer, engineer, manager.
Mix it with regular posts and performance clips. This way, fans see your full story — not just the highlights.
Make Your Story the Strategy
Don’t underestimate what feels ordinary to you.
To a fan, it’s the origin story of their favorite song.
If you’re struggling with engagement or wondering why growth has slowed, the issue may not be your sound. It may be the silence between your releases. Yea, the emotional gap between you and your fans.
So, still wondering whether to post that imperfect moment from your session?
Post it.
Because what your fans don’t see… is often the very thing they’re craving.
