How to Promote Your New Single Using SMS Marketing

Releasing a new single is an exciting milestone, but getting it in front of the right audience is just as important as creating the music itself. While social media and streaming algorithms play a role, SMS marketing is a powerful tool that independent artists and labels often overlook. With high open rates and direct fan engagement, SMS can drive streams, boost pre-saves, and maximize the impact of your release.

Why SMS Marketing Works for Music Promotion

SMS marketing offers several advantages over traditional digital marketing channels:

• Unmatched Open Rates – Text messages have a 98% open rate, far surpassing email or social media posts.

• Direct-to-Fan Communication – Unlike social media, where algorithms control visibility, SMS ensures your message reaches your audience.

• Instant Engagement – Most texts are read within minutes, making SMS ideal for time-sensitive promotions like release day announcements and exclusive pre-save links.

• Personalization – SMS allows you to tailor messages with fan names, links, and even location-based event invites.

Step-by-Step Guide to Promoting Your Single with SMS Marketing

1. Build Your SMS Fan List

Before sending texts, you need permission from fans to message them. Here’s how to grow your list:

• Capture phone numbers – Use sign-up forms on your website, social media, and merch store checkout pages.

• Offer incentives – Exclusive content, early access to music, or giveaways can encourage fans to subscribe.

• Use QR codes – At live shows, include a QR code on posters and merch that links to an opt-in form.

• Leverage social media – Encourage followers to join your text list by posting about it and including a sign-up link in your bio.

2. Create a Pre-Save and Release Day Strategy

Maximizing pre-saves and streams requires strategic timing. Here’s how SMS can help:

• Pre-Save Reminders – Send a text with a pre-save link a week before release day, and another on the day before.

• Release Day Hype – Announce when the single is live with a streaming link and an engaging message.

• Follow-Up Engagement – A few days later, ask fans what they think of the track and encourage them to share it.

3. Use Smart Segmentation for Targeted Campaigns

Segmenting your SMS list ensures fans receive relevant messages:

• Superfans – Send exclusive behind-the-scenes content or early access to upcoming releases.

• Geographic Targeting – Notify fans in specific locations about tour dates or in-person events.

• New Subscribers – Welcome them with a thank-you message and a link to your latest music.

4. Keep Your Messages Short and Engaging

A good SMS marketing campaign is concise and compelling. Here are some examples:

• "🔥 Just dropped! My new single [Song Name] is out now! Listen here: [Link] 🎶"

• "Want to be the first to hear my next release? Pre-save now: [Link]"

• "You’re on the VIP list! Get early access to my new track: [Link] 🤫✨"

5. Track Performance and Optimize

Analyzing SMS performance helps refine future campaigns. Key metrics to track include:

• Click-Through Rate (CTR) – How many fans clicked the streaming or pre-save link?

• Response Rate – Are fans engaging with your messages?

• Unsubscribes – If fans are opting out, adjust messaging frequency and content.

Start Using SMS to Boost Your Music Career

When done right, SMS marketing can amplify your single’s reach, drive engagement, and strengthen your relationship with fans. Whether you’re an independent artist or managing a label, leveraging SMS can give you a direct line to your most loyal listeners.

If you’re looking for an easy way to manage SMS campaigns, tools like Sonikit can help streamline messaging, segmentation, and tracking—allowing you to focus on making great music while keeping your fans engaged.

Start building your SMS fan list today and take your next release to the next level!