It’s damn well time Method Uncertain shows Ernie Halter some blog love (I’ve personally told him what you’re about to read at a show in NYC not too long ago). For those of you who don’t know who Ernie Halter is (shame on you!), he’s a gifted singer-songwriter from Los Angeles who also happens to be a walking case study for any aspiring musicians looking to grow their fan base. Ernie recognized the power of connectivity, collaboration, and community, but more importantly, he embraced it and put it to work for him.
Over the last year I’ve watched Ernie transition from having a standard website to a developing a full blown promotional assult strategy using social media sites. He has a profile on myspace. He has a profile and multiple fanclubs on Facebook. He’s developed a YouTube Channel, where you can not only SEE his live performances, but also request him to sing/play any song of your choosing. (Ernie’s “Cry Me A River”) . He also gives fans access to exclusive content like studio sessions and video blogs from the road.
He uses Flickr to share photos from performances, the studio, appearances, and just for fun. He encourages fans to submit their pictures of his performances too and posts them. His page also features an assortment of widgets and banner codes for his fans to take as they wish to promote him. He’s got links to purchase and stream his music, not to mention links to join his street team, mailing lists and opt-in to receive SMS/Text messages.
I know what you’re thinking, Ernie is just the pretty voice (and face) while his marketing team handles it all behind the scenes. We’ll, you’re wrong. Ernie is a self-proclaimed geek and really enjoys engaging and interacting with his fans either in person or online. He signs autographs, chats with fans pre and post shows, he’ll take photos of or with you. He’s that accessible, which is refreshing, but also inspiring. He’s building a dedicated fan base by using social media, but also through kindess, which brings loyalty.
Aspring musicians, take notes. He’s that good.
Be sure to check out Ernie at a city near you.
Method Uncertain 