A Guide to Your Personal 2026 Rebrand

By Samantha Jordan, Label Services Data Entry Intern

New Year’s resolutions have a way of disappearing with the month of January. Navigating the music industry as an independent artist can make it especially difficult for your resolutions to stick when it feels like there is so much to do. However, with the right plan and enough determination, you can still make 2026 yours. Just a few simple tasks added to your to-do list can make all the difference. Here are some things every independent artist should be adding to their 2026 action items: 

Define your Brand 

Your brand tells a story and creates a universe for your audience to find themselves within without even realizing it. It goes far deeper than social media. Understanding who you are and your unique perspective is key to enveloping your brand. It will ultimately be what sets you apart and makes you unforgettable.

• Make a mood board including outfits, colors, 
• Make intentional choices (are you following a trend, or expressing who you are?)
• Audit your feeds (follow people and brands that inspire you, and remove ones that drain your energy)

Register with a PRO 

Registering with a PRO- a Performance Rights Organization- such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC is arguably one of the most important things an artist can do. This is how an artist can collect royalties whenever their music is played publicly. This step is crucial for artists, as it ensures that you are compensated for your hard work.

• Research and choose a PRO 
• Upload your work
• Audit your information to ensure that you are not missing out on any potential revenue

Update Social Media Pages

Social media is one of the most accessible and important tools for an independent artist to utilize. Keeping your socials up to date shows that you are active and dedicated. Posting regularly helps you engage your audience and expand your reach.

• Refresh your profile: Update your photo, bio, and links (Especially before a big release)
• Post frequently: Share behind-the-scenes content, official photos, video shoots, upcoming gigs, and more
• Plan content in advance: Schedule content shoot days, create graphic templates, and keep your look consistent

Attend Networking Events

Connections are everything in the music industry! You never know who you might meet, how they can impact your life, and how you can impact theirs. Having a community behind you will help in the long run when pursuing a career as an artist.

• Plan to attend one networking event a month 
• Introduce yourself to new people and exchange contact information
• Follow up and stay in touch

Create Business Cards/QR Codes

You could meet the next person who will change your life at any moment. Creating something as simple as a business card is the perfect way to stay ready for those unexpected interactions, and a great way to share your work! Anybody can make one.

• Include contact information (an email and/or phone number)
• Add social media accounts such as Instagram
• If you’re promoting a recent single or project, add a QR code people can scan to listen

We know that being an independent artist can be overwhelming, but don’t let yourself look back on this year wishing you had done more! Start each month by tackling your to-do list and reflecting on your progress. Periodically realign your goals and your plan for achieving them. Every step you take toward your career growth matters and helps you become the best version of yourself. 

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