A network is a group of objects, called nodes, connected together. These connections are called ties. The Internet is the most famous example. A social network is simply a network of people. The individuals are the nodes and the ties are the communications that occur between them.

For a band, their social network is their fanbase. Each fan is a node and the communication between the fans are the ties. Discussing social networks is the equivalent to discussing a fanbase. Why tell you this?

A band’s fanbase is the largest asset an artist will ever have. Forget about things like royalties, advances, record deals, and licensing, your fanbase is your largest asset. Of course, royalties bring money into your pocket. But a fanbase represents future earnings.

Any deal that you sign today, even royalties, will dwindle down with time. It’s very rare when a deal comes along to bring you an everlasting and comfortable source of mailbox money. Overall, those deals are few and far between. By focusing on your fans, you create a source of supporters to last as long as your career. That’s why you should focus on serving your fans. Your fanbase represents a pool of new potential supporters and listeners.

When the word social networks is used on this site, we are really talking about your fanbase. The theory behind social networking is important to better understand how to grow your own fanbase.

When you see the terms social networking, don’t be turned off. Read more.