When Burna Boy first started out, he didn’t have millions of streams. What he had was a small tribe that believed in him as a star waiting to shine.
Those first loyal fans showed up, shared his music, and set the foundation for his rise to global stardom.
Today, you’re at 500 streams or less for your song, and you’re wondering when you’ll hit the big bucks with this number.
But those streams are more than mere numbers (if they’re organic). They represent the first recruits in your future army, and the bridge that enables you to cross from that aspiration to reality.
They are the ones currently sharing your music with their network, recommending you to others, and helping you break into new circles.
So what should you do with them to hasten this race to your dream stardom and millions?
Grow the Community
While it might be tempting to focus on accumulating big numbers (after all, millions of streams and followers look impressive on paper) the real value comes from building a community of true supporters. This entails nurturing deep, authentic connections with people who truly resonate with your music.
These initial fans are the core devotees who connect with you on a personal level. They’ll share your music, attend your shows, buy your merchandise, and engage with your content. They’re in it for the long haul, not just a one-time listen.
When you have a community, you’re building a brand that goes beyond music. And that’s where the real magic happens.
The Long-Term Impact of Organic Growth
The beauty of starting small is that you build your career on a solid foundation. Those inital, original fans help you lay the groundwork for sustainable, organic growth. They’ll help you reach new fans and build momentum, one loyal listener at a time.
Now, let’s think about the flip side. While securing a big contract or landing a million-dollar deal might seem like the dream, it doesn’t guarantee long-term success. If you’re just chasing the dollar and not focusing on your core fans, what happens when the money dries up? Sustainability in music comes from consistent, organic growth. And that growth starts with your first fans.
As your fan base expands, the connections you’ve made with these early supporters will continue to pay off. This is the foundation of a long-lasting career.
The Real Value of Authenticity
One of the most powerful aspects of having a dedicated fanbase is the authenticity it brings. Your initial fans believe in you before fame and wealth. These are the fans who will grow with you, who will support you through thick and thin.
Building a loyal fanbase around your authentic self — not just the music you make, but your personal story, your struggles, your triumphs — will create a much deeper connection with your audience.
The trust you build with these fans will carry you through your entire career. They’ll become your strongest supporters every step of the way, from launching new projects to releasing exclusive content.
So, What Does This Mean for You?
In the early stages of your career, don’t get too caught up in the flashy numbers. Instead, focus on building your first true (few) fans. These are the people who will follow you through every phase of your journey, who will continue to buy your albums, attend your concerts, and champion your music as you grow.
Build a brand that’s authentic, meaningful, and sustainable, and the big numbers will follow.
