Most Wanted Berlin 2024: Essential Insights for Independent Artists

In this blog, I’m diving into the biggest takeaways from Most Wanted Berlin 2024 to help you succeed as an independent artist today.

I had the pleasure of attending the festival again this year, and it was a great chance for me to reflect on my work helping independent artists.

But before I dive into it, let me give you a bit of background on the festival.

Most Wanted is a well-respected music business conference held annually in Berlin, bringing together top professionals from the music and creative industries worldwide.

This year, I had the opportunity to join four discussions that got me thinking.

The first was about effectively representing artists, crafting a standout Electronic Press Kit (EPK), and nailing the pitch.

The second session focused on key market trends from different territories.

In the third, Vasja Veber, co-founder of Viberate, shared how to leverage their powerful music data analytics tool.

Finally, I attended a workshop on how to land more gigs, featuring experts Anita Richelli and Mirna Čupić.

Five biggest takeaways: Most Wanted Berlin 2024

In addition, read this Blog Article: Àbáse’s Album ‘Awakening’ + Promoting your Album Release

Learn to sell yourself

When I attended the first panel, there was one moment that stuck with me.

Allie Silver said, “When you’re talking about what you do as an artist, you’re selling yourself. Be clear.”

Those words hit home.

Funny enough, that’s still something I find challenging.

But here’s the truth: you and I both want attention.

And that’s not a bad thing.

You have a gift, a talent, and something valuable to share with others.

That’s why you want people to notice you—it’s about connecting and showing them the value you bring.

So, how do you do that?

Here’s a quick exercise: craft a short bio that answers these questions:

Who are you?
What’s your style or genre?
What themes or messages do you explore in your music?

Make it simple. Give a brief and clear answer.

Remember, “selling yourself” is helping people see the value within your artistry.

Look at metrics the right way

Listening to the panels at Most Wanted Berlin 2024 on music data and market trends was so fascinating.

It reminded me of one thing.

Metrics are only as good as the context they’re placed in.

I’ll break it down for you.

Every platform has its own rules they want you to want.

They want you to open their dashboard and optimize you for that.

If you do that, you’re giving them what they want instead of focusing on what your goals are.

Metrics tell you how your work is doing, but ultimately, it’s about what matters most to you.

Do you want a community as an artist?

Or do you want an audience?

Do you want to be able to play 40 shows per year?

Figure out what you’re trying to achieve first.

Once you’re clear on that ask yourself.

What are the leading indicators that I should care about?

When you’re clear about your goals, it’s easier to zero in on the metrics that matter most.

Be Specific to Stand Out with Bookers

When no one responds, it’s hard not to doubt your emails.

Here’s a key area to focus on: your subject line.

It’s the first thing people notice, and it can make or break whether your email gets opened.

So, what makes a great subject line?

Keep it simple and specific.

For example: Suite de Nada // Live Music // 10.4.

A clear subject like this gives people something concrete to respond to.

Often, a specific date or detail makes it easier for the person on the other end to cut to the chase and take action.

Give Them a Reason to Care

One thing I tell every single independent artist?

While you can’t control their responses, it’s the value you bring that makes them pay attention.

Reflecting on my own experiences with industry professionals, I’ve come to realize that when you truly understand their perspective, it’s clear just how in tune they are.

Let me share an example that can help you highlight your value:

“I recently teamed up with [name of another artist] on a track that’s been getting some great attention. I’d love to bring that collaboration to [Festival Name]—which I think would be something fresh for your attendees.”

Festivals, for instance, are always on the lookout for a variety of live shows to add more diversity to their lineup.

Here’s my point in all of this.

Make always sure to give them a reason to stop, take notice and eventually get into the talking.

It’s your job to tell them the impact you can have.

Optimize your Social Media Channels

Once someone starts paying attention to you, it’s your chance to grab their attention.

When we’re intrigued by someone, we always check their social profiles to see what they’re up to and how they might add value to our lives.

If something’s unclear or doesn’t quite add up, you could lose that opportunity to stand out.

Here’s an exercise.

Take a few minutes to review all your channels and ask yourself:

Is what I do clear?

Does my style/genre stand out?

Is my bio speaking directly to my (prospective) fans?

Make sure your social media is a clear reflection of who you are and (again) the value you can bring to others.