I wonder if I could hire Sterling Cooper. Granted, most of their ad ideas weren't good, but at least they had ideas.
I've tried brainstorming. My novel is about a woman navigating Big Music (for wont of a better term), and generally making a mess of things. Really, all that saves her at first is her acquaintance with an older superstar and her own natural instincts. It's when she follows the record label's plans that things go badly.
So, market to country music outlets? How would that be done, exactly? I don't know if I should start following some big acts (female acts) on social media, and casually drop hints about my novel in the comments, which seems really cheesy, to be honest. And too blatant. Or perhaps I should find out which country music websites are popular and follow them instead (and again go with the cheesy hints about my novel). "Funny you should post about that. My novel, Running From Herself, which follows newly-signed singer Leah Branch as she navigates the Nashville music world, includes an eerily similar circumstance, in which she..." and then follow my comment up with the Buy link. 😉
I asked AI for ideas, and unlike Sterling Cooper, its ideas are fine, but they're not exactly doable:
Leverage Music Platforms: Since your novel centers on a singer, target music enthusiasts. Collaborate with local musicians or bands to promote your book at their events. Create playlists inspired by the book's themes and characters, and share them on Spotify or Apple Music.
"Hey, guys, while you're on break, mind if I commandeer the mic and read some passages from my novel?"
(Also, I already did create a Spotify playlist, and I'm not smart like AI.)
Social Media Campaigns: Build a presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Share snippets of your novel, highlight quotes, and post engaging content like "behind-the-scenes" inspiration for your characters. A reel or short video introducing the protagonist's journey could resonate well.
Well, like what, exactly? I did post a pseudo-contest, asking people to guess who the real-life inspiration was for the Paula Barnes character, but nobody wanted to play.
Book and Music Hybrid Events: Organize a launch party or reading with live music performances. This could tie into your book’s theme and attract both readers and music lovers.
Ah, yes! I think I'll hire either George Strait or Reba McEntire. I don't have a backyard, per se, and can't afford to book a venue, but my kitchen/dining room might work.
Collaborations: Partner with influencers or bloggers in both the book and music worlds. For example, music critics who also enjoy novels could help amplify your reach.
Is there a list of those somewhere?
Soundtrack for Your Novel: Create or commission a fictional soundtrack for your book. Readers love immersive experiences, and music can help bring your story to life. You could even release songs as part of the marketing.
Oh. How long will that take? Five minutes, tops? I mean, sure, someone (who would be me) would need to write the songs; then I'd need a backing band and a singer (who I guess would again be me) and a producer. Then someone (me) would have to pay to distribute the soundtrack. Totally doable.
Pitch the Story to Podcasts: Many podcasts focus on books, music, or both. Share insights about your novel's creation and the music industry's role in it.
Hmmm. Could I hire a stand-in for those elusive podcast appearances? I don't do performances; I don't even make videos with myself in them.
Exclusive Content: Offer limited-edition bundles with the book, such as lyric prints (related to your singer character), bookmarks shaped like musical notes, or other themed merchandise.
Cute, but requires money. And really, swag doesn't sell books.
Engage with Local Communities: Work with bookstores and libraries, especially in communities known for their music scene. Host workshops or discussions about writing and music.
Minneapolis is definitely known for its music scene. Unfortunately, that scene doesn't involve country. Host workshops? LOL, cool.
The bottom line is, when suggestions are unrealistic, that's a good indication that there are no good suggestions to be had. I'm pretty much screwed in the "outside the box" category.
I guess I can still make a book trailer, but book trailers are about as effective as book swag (although I could at least make one for free).
There must be an answer, mustn't there? Maybe not. Maybe my brain hurts now from pondering it, and it's time to stop.
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