What Can You Learn About Marketing From Rock Stars?

Rock stars are also marketing masters...

Ever wonder how rock stars get a horde of fans follow them like religious fanatics? For some rock stars who did it right, they could maintain rabid following for decades.

Look at Madonna. Her first album was released way back in 1983 and she’s still one of the highest paid rock star. Look at Elvis. He’s dead for 32 years now yet he still makes more money than some celebrities who are ALIVE.

What’s their secret?

Is it their unparalleled singing talent? Their unique dance moves maybe? Their drop-dead gorgeous looks? Sultry body? Millions of dollars in marketing budget? Songs that move you?

Some people sang like an angel yet they never made it to stardom.

Some people have got the moves yet was forgotten when they were too old to show it.

Some people have the body to die for, yet was forced to retire when they reach 30.

Millions of dollars in marketing budget had been blown for nothing.

Even songwriters who wrote best-selling music had never been known.

The Secret of Truly Successful Rock Stars

Here’s my theory. Sure all those things play a part. But they are by far NOT the reason I’m looking for.

Here’s what they all have in common: They are all religious leaders. At least in their own religion.

They are religious leaders. At least in their religion.

They’ve got a ‘god’. Their fans go on a pilgrimage (their concerts). They have a bible (their albums). They have their sacred relics (collectibles). And they even have evagelist (rabid fans and opinion leaders).

See how rock stars built their business exactly like religious leaders built their religions?

It’s their system that works. And that system is nothing new. It has existed pretty much since mankind began.

Here’s how to build your religion

It’s quite easy, really.

Position yourself as an authority and build trust with your customers.
Create your bible. It can even be a short e-book but it should contain the very basis of your thinking. The gist of your system.
Spread your word and encourage your readers to spread the word.
Solicit glowing testimonials.
Every religion has a story. Make sure yours is a compelling one.
As your subscriber base grow, organize pilgrimage where you guys meet and share ideas.

1 Comments

Blogging Tips, February 12, 2009:

I love the way you use religion as an analogy. I guess it all boils down to having the “authority” built upon trust and value. I like Madonna not because of her singing but the way she maximizes and maintains her popularity all these years.

Excellent article as usual, Andre.

Yan

Blogging Tipss last blog post..My First Valentine Love Letter

Andre Thomas, February 12th, 2009 at 5:51 pm:

I’m glad you like the article Yan. I learned the concept from Sean D’Souza a couple of years ago. He talked about how most of the lasting corporations built their brand like a religion - and not like a store.