Your Viral Moment Is Coming: When It Happens These Skills Will Keep You At The Top Of The Charts
- Legendary Mix
- Feb 5
- 4 min read
The music industry has changed dramatically over the past decade. In the past, major record labels invested significant time and resources into developing artists before releasing their music. This included everything from refining stage presence to shaping the artist’s brand and ensuring they were ready for a long-term career. Fast forward to 2024, and the development process has been largely abandoned. Labels are no longer looking for potential; they’re looking for results.
This shift means that artists must now take the reins and prepare themselves. When a song goes viral on platforms like TikTok, it often brings a surge of interest from labels. But the harsh reality is that many artists aren’t ready to capitalize on these moments. Without the skills and experience to back up their viral success, they risk losing momentum as quickly as they gain it.
If you’re an aspiring artist, here’s what you need to know about the skills you should develop now to be ready for your viral moment when it comes.
Why Labels Have Shifted Away From Artist Development
In the early 2000s, labels typically signed artists with potential and spent years honing their craft. By the time they released their first album, these artists were polished and prepared for a career. But with the rise of social media and streaming platforms, the game has changed. Viral success can happen overnight, and labels have pivoted to chasing trends. They want artists who already have a proven following, complete with impressive social media metrics, streams, and fan engagement.
This shift has placed an incredible amount of pressure on artists to arrive “ready-made.” Labels now prefer to sign artists who have already done the hard work of building an audience and refining their sound. In many cases, songs are released just weeks after an artist is signed, leaving little room for development. The result? If you aren’t prepared before your viral moment, you could struggle to make the leap from online sensation to a sustainable career.
What Viral Success Can’t Teach You
Platforms like TikTok are incredible tools for discovery, but they don’t teach you how to perform live, connect with fans in person, or build a career beyond your hit song. Once the initial excitement dies down, audiences expect more. They want to see you perform live, hear new music, and engage with your story in a meaningful way.
This is where traditional artist development made all the difference. Skills like stage presence, live vocal stamina, crowd control, and show pacing take time to master. These aren’t things you can fake in front of a paying audience. Artists who neglect these areas risk disappointing their fans and losing opportunities for growth.
Consider Noah Kahan as an example. When his song Stick Season went viral, he wasn’t scrambling to figure out how to perform for thousands of fans. He had already spent years playing live shows, honing his craft, and learning how to connect with an audience. That preparation allowed him to step into the spotlight and thrive, leading to sold-out arenas and a lasting career.
The Skills You Need to Develop Now
If you want to be ready when your viral moment comes, you need to focus on building the following skills:
1. Stage Presence
Captivating an audience is an art form. Learn how to command attention on stage, move with confidence, and connect with the crowd. Start small by performing at open mics or local venues, and use those experiences to refine your presence.
2. Live Vocal Stamina
Singing live is a completely different challenge from recording in a studio. Performing night after night requires stamina, breath control, and consistency. Regular practice and vocal training can help you build the endurance needed for touring.
3. Crowd Control
Great performers know how to read a room and adapt to the energy of the crowd. Practice interacting with your audience, encouraging participation, and creating memorable moments during your set.
4. Band Dynamics
If you perform with a band, tight chemistry is essential. Rehearse regularly and work on communicating effectively with your bandmates. A cohesive live sound can elevate your performance and leave a lasting impression.
5. Show Pacing
A great set has a natural flow. Learn how to structure your performances so they build energy and keep the audience engaged from start to finish. Watching live performances from your favorite artists can provide valuable insights.
How to Start Preparing
The best time to start preparing for your viral moment is now, before the spotlight is on you. Do the small things now, like make sure music is of the highest quality. If cost is a concern for you simply visit the pro's here at www.LegendaryMix.com. Play small shows at local venues, street fairs, or even virtual events. These opportunities may feel insignificant, but they’re invaluable for building your skills and confidence.
You should also focus on building your online presence. Engage with fans authentically on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and showcase your personality as much as your music. When the moment comes, your social media success will complement your live performance skills.
The Bottom Line
While the music industry has changed, one thing remains true: preparation is everything. Viral success can open doors, but it’s your skills, experience, and professionalism that will determine whether you can walk through them.
Labels may have abandoned the traditional artist development process, but that doesn’t mean you should. Take the time to develop your craft, learn the fundamentals, and prepare yourself for the career you want. When your viral moment comes, you’ll be ready to seize it—and build a career that lasts.
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