TODAY'S Profitable DEEP DIVE
I WON a Music 🏆! Now what?
Winning a music award is a thrilling milestone in any artist’s career. Whether it’s a regional competition, a prestigious industry accolade, or an independent music award, it’s natural to wonder, “What now?”
Let’s break down why awards matter in the music industry, how they can boost your career, and what steps you should take next to maximize your win.
Why Bother Winning Music Awards?
Some musicians hesitate to enter awards competitions, thinking they are either irrelevant or just vanity prizes. However, winning a music award has tangible benefits that can elevate your career in several ways:
1. Legitimacy & Credibility
An award from an unbiased organization signals to industry professionals, fans, and potential collaborators that your music is high-quality and respected.
If the judges are well-known figures in the industry, being recognized by them lends instant credibility to your artistry.
2. Psychological Impact on Fans & Industry
People perceive award-winning artists as more accomplished. Whether consciously or subconsciously, the title of “award-winning artist” can lead to more bookings, collaborations, and media opportunities.
It also instills confidence in potential listeners who may be discovering your music for the first time.
3. Association with Big Names
If the award you’ve won is judged by established industry figures or aligns with past winners who are notable, your name is now part of that same conversation.
This can open doors to networking opportunities and industry recognition.
4. Marketing & Promotional Power
Awards provide an excellent marketing hook.
They give you something to talk about, a way to stand out in press releases, bios, and pitches, and a reason for industry professionals to take another look at your work.
How to Leverage Your Award Win
Winning is just the first step—how you capitalize on it matters just as much as the award itself. Here’s what you should do next:
Immediately After You Win:
- Thank the Organization – Post an appreciative message on social media, tagging the awarding body and judges (if applicable). Express genuine gratitude without seeming self-congratulatory.
- Capture the Moment – If you have photos, videos, or press coverage from the award event, collect and organize these assets for future promotional use.
- Prepare a Press Release – Send out a well-crafted announcement to media outlets, blogs, and industry contacts. Highlight what the award means for your career.
Spreading the Word Without Sounding too "BragGY"
Promoting your achievement without coming across as arrogant is key. Here’s how:
- Make it About Your Fans & Team – Instead of “I won this award because I’m amazing,” frame it as “This award is for all my fans who have supported me!” or “Huge thanks to my team for helping me achieve this milestone!”
- Tell a Story – Share a short post about your journey leading up to this moment. People love authenticity.
- Show, Don’t Tell – Instead of repeatedly posting “I’m an award-winning artist,” casually include it in captions, emails, and conversations when relevant.
Where to Announce Your Win:
- Social Media – Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok (use award hashtags, tag relevant parties).
- Your Website – Update your bio and add an “Awards” or “Achievements” section.
- Press Releases – Send to blogs, local newspapers, and music magazines.
- Email List – Notify your fans directly with a special update.
- Streaming Profiles – If applicable, update your artist bio on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud.
- Stage Introductions – Have your host or MC introduce you as an award-winning artist at live performances.
- Music Videos & Promotional Materials – Mention it in the description or as a short text overlay in your videos.
Should You Keep Applying for More Awards?
Music awards can be a great way to build credibility, but applying for every available competition can get expensive.
The Sweet Spot for Awards vs. Costs
- Prioritize Recognized & Reputable Awards – Not all awards carry the same weight. Focus on those that have industry recognition, influential judges, or strong networking potential.
- Weigh the Cost vs. Benefit – If an award charges an entry fee, consider the exposure, credibility, and networking opportunities it offers before investing.
- Strategic Award Selection – A few meaningful awards in your bio look impressive. Too many lesser-known awards can dilute the impact.
- Aim for Quality Over Quantity – One major award can be more powerful than ten smaller ones.
Final Thought:
Winning an award is a milestone, not the destination.
The real value comes from how you use it to enhance your brand, open new doors, and push your career forward.
Be strategic, stay humble, and invest wisely.
Then when you do win, don't shy away from using the clout that you earned to further your career.