Part 3: Build the Buzz - How to Create Hype Before Release Day
Jun 09, 2025You’ve planned your release and polished your track. Now comes the most overlooked - and most powerful — part of the process:
Building the buzz.
If no one knows your single is coming, they’re not going to hear it - no matter how good it is.
So let’s get your audience excited, engaged, and ready to hit play the second your track drops.
Step 1: Start Early (4–6 Weeks Out)
The earlier you start teasing, the better.
Fans need time to notice, care, and take action.
Here’s a sample 4-week pre-release timeline:
- Week 1: Announce the single + share cover art
- Week 2: Share behind-the-scenes content or lyric teasers
- Week 3: Drop a snippet or video teaser + pre-save link
- Week 4: Build hype with countdowns, story posts, and early reactions
Step 2: Use Pre-Saves to Build Momentum
A pre-save lets fans add your song to their library before it’s released — and it signals to Spotify’s algorithm that people are waiting for your track.
Use tools like:
- Feature.fm
- Show.co (via CD Baby)
- Hypedit
- Or your distributor’s built-in pre-save link
TOP TIP: Offer an incentive for pre-saving:
A free download, exclusive demo, or entry into a giveaway.
Step 3: Create Content That Tells a Story
Music is personal. Your audience wants to connect with you, not just your song.
Create short-form content that tells the story behind the track:
- Why did you write it?
- Who’s it for?
- What does it mean to you?
Formats to try:
- TikTok/Instagram Reels with song snippets
- “Story behind the song” mini-vlogs
- Countdown graphics
- Reaction videos from friends/fans
Step 4: Tease, Don’t Spam
Think of your promo like a movie trailer — give just enough to intrigue people.
Mix up your content:
- Aesthetic or mood board posts
- Rehearsal clips
- Lyrics on screen
- Studio footage
- Raw phone videos
Avoid:
Posting the same artwork or “coming soon” post 10 times. Keep it fresh and engaging.
Step 5: Collaborate & Cross-Promote
Tag, involve, and shout out:
- Your producer or collaborators
- Other artists with similar audiences
- Local music blogs or radio shows
- Fans who repost your teaser
Cross-promotion multiplies your reach — and shows your track has a community behind it.
Final Thoughts
Buzz isn’t built by luck — it’s built by intention.
Use every day leading up to release as a way to pull people closer, build excitement, and grow your following.
This week’s action:
Create a simple 4-week pre-release content calendar. Focus on telling your story and making people feel part of the journey.
If you need help with your next single release, Book in a FREE 1:1 discovery call with Tryfan Music.
Download The Recording Artist Toolkit to learn the 6 steps to success in today’s new music business.
Next up in Part 4:
“Release Day Game Plan – What to Do the Moment Your Song Drops”
LEARN THE 6 STEPS TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL RECORDING ARTIST
Take your music career to the next level in 2025 in this step-by-step FREE guide.
We hate SPAM. We will never sell your information, for any reason.