“If we show up, we show out.”
Let me get straight to it—most of what you’re doing to grow as an artist isn’t moving the needle.
You can post every day on Instagram, shoot a dozen music videos, drop a new single every two weeks… but if nobody sees you live, it’s going to feel like you're stuck in place.
I know, because I’ve been there.
When we first started out, I didn’t have a label, a manager, or a viral moment. What I did have was a crew that was down to hit the road with me, a busted van, and a mindset that said, “If we show up, we show out.”
And that’s what this post is about—why playing live shows is the only growth strategy that actually works long-term, especially for artists without a big machine behind them.
1. The Algorithm Won’t Save You
Most artists I talk to are waiting for something external to happen.
They're hoping the TikTok gods bless their 38th draft. They’re hoping a playlist curator sees their song and magically drops it into RapCaviar.
Here’s the truth: the only algorithm you need to beat is real human connection. And that happens at shows.
Every person who sees you live is 10x more likely to become a fan, stream your music, tell a friend, and show up again.
You don’t need to be famous. You need to be unforgettable in the room.
2. You’re Not Gonna Get Good Until You Do It 50+ Times
There’s no shortcut to being a great performer.
You can practice in your room for years and still bomb your first set. Or worse—you’ll have no energy, no structure, and no idea how to hold the crowd’s attention.
The only way you get good is by playing. A lot.
When I did my first 100 shows, half of them were in front of 20 people. The other half? Barely more. But every single one made me better. I learned how to build a set that moves people. How to talk to the crowd. How to pivot when something goes wrong.
You think Drake doesn’t still tweak his setlist after every tour stop? The pros rehearse because they perform. You’re not different.
3. Shows Are Where You Build Your Core
Forget a million followers. What you need are 100 fans in every city that actually show up.
Those people become the reason you get booked again. They bring energy. They bring their friends. They post your name without being asked.
But you can’t build a core unless you give them a place to gather. That’s your show.
Not your livestream. Not your IG stories. A real venue. A real mic. Real sound.
And if you’re thinking, “But I don’t have a booking agent,” that’s where Qoncert comes in. We built this for artists like you. Because I was you. And I still am.
4. Fans Need to See You to Remember You
Every artist has a short window where someone discovers them and decides whether to care.
You need multiple touchpoints before they commit. A post might get them curious. A song might get them nodding. But a live set gets them converted.
When they see you give 100% on stage—whether it’s 10 people or 100—they know you’re real. They remember you. They follow. They show up next time.
5. Don’t Wait for the Right Time
The biggest lie in your head is “I’ll start once my project is done” or “when I get a team.”
Start now.
Start small. Get 15 people out and give them a show that feels like 150. Do it again next month. By show #5, you’re building something that can’t be faked.
That’s how it works.
🎤 Mini Case Study: JayDubbThaRuler (Colorado Springs)
JayDubbThaRuler, emerging from Colorado Springs, has been steadily climbing—touring, scoring sponsorships, and earning industry recognition through Qoncert.
🔁 Touring Multiple Cities
Jay leveraged Qoncert to expand beyond his hometown. Instead of staying local, he booked consistent gigs across Colorado and nearby states—building regional momentum step‑by‑step. Each show brought in new fans who stuck with him.
🤝 Securing Sponsorships
“It’s not just about the music—it’s about the movement.” – JayDubbThaRuler
“It’s not just about the music—it’s about the movement,” Jay said. Through consistent performance and growing buzz, he attracted local sponsors who supported his tours and boosted his visibility.
🏆 Winning Awards & Building Credibility
JayDubb won the “I’m HIM” Award at the Qoncert Awards—an accolade that boosted his confidence and status in the local scene.
✅ Strategy in Action
| Strategy | Jay’s Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Play Consistently Across Markets | Booked shows in multiple cities | Expanded fan reach, built buzz |
| Turn Performance Into Sponsorships | Delivered energy and professionalism | Funding for growth and tours |
| Use Recognition for Credibility | Engaged Qoncert community and awards | Boosted bookings and reputation |
This is exactly what I mean when I say: playing more shows, building relationships, converting that into momentum—it actually works.
Ready To Start?
Ready to build your own growth engine?
- Step 1: Book 3 shows in or around your city over the next 3 months. Use Qoncert if you need help.
- Step 2: Track your growth—note increases in streams, merch sales, fan signups.
- Step 3: Pitch local sponsors—once you're bringing 50+ people a night, you’re worth backing.
- Step 4: Headline a Qoncert show —use your results to get recognition and better bookings.
Shoot me a message through Qoncert, or Book a Show now to unlock tools that helped JayDubb—and artists like him—start winning.
Let’s get to work.
— Tef
