Summer is barley over, but the holidays are right around the corner. If you haven’t started thinking about how to incorporate the holiday season into your music marketing strategy, now’s the time. From tracks to merch and more, it’s time to put a plan together. Here are five reasons why you should be thinking about the holidays right now:

1. Tracks: Do you have a song that can tie into the holidays? If not, would you be willing to record a holiday tune? Giving away a free track around the holidays makes for great content on your social media pages, and if it’s especially interesting or creative, could help you gain more fans. But it can potentially take some time to record, mix and master, so now’s the time to get your plans in order.
2. Videos: If you want to create a video of a holiday track, you’ll need to allow yourself time for filming, production and editing so you can release the track before the holidays. Remember: the more creative and different, the better. But sometimes creativity takes time.
3.  Content: As mentioned above, tracks and content are great for your social media pages. You should also consider creating other timely content like: writing a musician’s gift guide, sharing a list of your favorite local musicians, and writing a top ten best of 2012 list. Share it!
4. Merch: If you have created an existing brand that can tie into merchandise like tote bags, t-shirts and more, you should start designing and ordering your merch now, because…
5. Promotions: You can consider running special holiday promotion sales. Bundle t-shirts with a cd for a special holiday price, or bundle your vinyl with a tote, and more! Give yourself ample time to set up your shop AND mail out the orders in time for the holidays.

Tell us what you think! Do you have any plans for the holidays?

The SongCast Crew