Chapter: When People Connect
In 2009, little-known Icelandic multi-instrumentalist Ólafur Arnalds felt the need to come up with a good story to go with his music, that would help attract both new and old fans and better connect them to him while also giving them a reason to support him monetarily. So, with that idea (having a story behind the music) as his base, he came up with a project called Found Songs, where he would write, record and release a new song every single day for seven straight days. He did it all out of his bedroom. His fans then stepped up and created artwork for each song, and in some cases, amazing videos that within days had thousands upon thousands of views.
Arnalds made the tracks available via the online social networking service Twitter. At the project’s website you can watch the videos, look at the artwork people created for the songs and even download all the songs for free. There’s also a store where you can buy the beautifully packaged vinyl or CD-versions of the album, and some higher quality digital downloads.
Arnalds fan base increased massively after this project. He has since been involved with various other projects and his music has appeared in many films, television shows and advertisements. His song Brotsjór was featured on the eighth season of So You Think You Can Dance. He also spoke at length on the subject of fan-submitted art in the 2011 documentary film, PressPausePlay.
Possible Moral
A perfect example of connecting and interacting with fans. By letting anyone join his project Arnalds gained new fans that had never before heard his music. Participation increased the value of Arnalds work and made Found Songs into a big success. Remember that your fans are your life-blood. See that you know who they are, and give them a reason to follow you. Be sure to thank them, often, for caring enough to support you. They’re responsible for your success just as much as you are.
Story from We All Need Heroes: Stories of the Brave and Foolish.
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We All Need Heroes
Historia CortaHey there! Here you'll find a collection of mixed stories from my debut book 'We All Need Heroes', which celebrates people with brave and innovative ideas. The finished book is filled with a huge mix of inspirational and fun short-stories of people...
