The more the world spins, the more the (Entertainment) Industry changes its rules to assure its supremacy over artists. From the lack of compensation for artist to the limited options breaking free from the grips of this vile, drooling creature we so desperately want approval from.
The key to Independence isn't to be dependent on the machine, but to create a system to where the system needs to be dependent on you! And, where most people today weren't around to see, it was this way at a time. We just need to get back to THAT timeline. Well, here is ONE pathway to do so
STOP UPLOADING YOUR WORK TO THESE PLATFORMS and begin creating your own "platform". NOT your social media page, NOT a DSP, but YOUR OWN page, YOUR OWN site, YOUR OWN app! Now, by doing this, YOU own your artistic land! YOU own your pipeline to your fanbase! YOU are your own middle(wo)man!
Sure, your reach, especially in the beginning, won't be as large as it would be on the platforms that you probably are currently utilizing. But, at least YOU have more of a control of the “rotation” you music has when YOU are your own DJ!
2nd option - COLLAB! I have seen SO MANY POSTS/VIDS of Artists complaining about how nobody wants to support or how so many people are out here doing artists dirty and taking advantage of them. DESPITE THAT BEING VALID & TRUE, it can't be the “excuse” why things don't get done. So, instead of trying to find “promotors” who are questionable (but known in your area), reach out to other artists; in particular the ones within your range or a step or two behind/ahead of where you currently are. Listen, since you're artists trying to achieve the same goal and head in the same direction, you both would be enthused to be a part of each other's growth. And, to piggyback on this point, extend that to artists in different cities, counties, states - other markets. You never know where that might lead. Hell, you might connect w/ an artist who has an idea that isn't working in their market but could be the missing piece for you in yours.
Share each other's content. Post video of you guys collaborating on an idea - whether its brainstorming or putting in work, it can lead to a bond to help solidify your foundation. And don't limit yourself to just "YOUR genre". Working with someone in a different genre COULD inspire you to create some work that you didn't know you would fall in love with but also it exposes you to a different audience who might be interested in what you currently have.
You're welcome
D. Cal
GNSEntertainmnt.com