Bypass: Music Industry News for Independent Artists

Friday edition - 2 min read

Post Today, Get Seen Today (Yep, on Facebook)

What’s Up

Facebook just tweaked its Reels algorithm to show you 50% more content that’s posted the same day you’re scrolling. Still don’t know what Zuck’s game is, but indies can only stand to gain from this change.

So What

Timing matters (again). Facebook used to serve you week-old Reels no one cared about anymore. Now, if you post about something that’s trending, there’s a real shot people will see it today instead of next Tuesday – or, who are we kidding, never.

Now What

Still batch-posting for your entire week? Cut that out. Post Reels the same day you want them seen. Drop that song clip, show snippet, or quick rant while it’s hot. For once, the algorithm is on your side. Don’t waste it.

[Full story at TechCrunch]

Say Thanks on Wrapped or Miss Your Chance

What's Up

Spotify Wrapped 2025 is right around the corner, and this year it wants you. Artists can upload a 30-second vertical video that’ll appear in their top fans’ Wrapped. Deadline: November 14.

So What

Last year, 18,000 artists submitted Wrapped videos that reached millions of fans. This isn’t just a nice gesture, though. The real strategy here is exposing yourself to your most loyal fans. The ones who’ll buy your tickets or tell their friends about you.

Now What

Open Spotify for Artists and film your clip this week. Thirty seconds tops. Share a milestone or two, thank your fans, or tease what’s coming next year. Do it before November 14 or you’ll be thanking no one.

[Full story at Digital Music News]

Bandcamp Friday Returns: Keep 100% on Dec 5

What's Up

For anyone who missed Bandcamp Friday last week (Oct 3), you got another shot on Dec 5. If you don’t know already, Bandcamp Friday is the TGIF for indies: you keep 100% of sales. Since it started, fans have spent over $131 million directly supporting artists. Nope, that’s not a typo.

So What

Sure, December 5 is what, seven weeks away, but that’s the perfect amount of time to plan a drop that sells. If you’ve got music, merch, or a back catalog, that’s your day to make rent.

Now What

Save the date. Feel free to tattoo “December 5” on your forehead (kidding, don’t). Plan out album/single releases, merch drops and how you’ll bundle something for fans to grab. Start hyping it two weeks early: “Buy on Dec 5, and I keep 100%.” People want to help – you just have to remind them.

[Read more on Hypebot]