The major problem for an independent musician in the Internet age is cutting through the abundant noise of the online world and getting noticed.

New Rock Star Philosophy’s August post “The Worlds Biggest Cover Band” highlights how one band has used cover songs to lead their path of success.

The important point to realize from this article is that it shows a band using the realities of the situation and making it work to their advantage. In an era when there are seemingly infinite ways a band can market themselves, it may be helpful to stick to a few practical means, that, because of human nature or other reasons, just works.

Simply put, the cover song approach seems to help get people’s attention.

Note: You can also read a related November 2008 V11 post titled iTunes, Cover Songs, and Making Money that highlights the more devious way some musicians have used cover songs not in the iTunes library to make a quick buck.

Of course, the cover song approach is not for everyone.  So lesson two of this post is that what you really need to do is think about what may work for your fan base (or anticipated fan base) and do it.  If you were looking for music, what would get your attention?  It is cover songs, or something else?

A recent Bob Baker post is consistent with that theme – thinking about and working to find a path that will specifically work for you and your fan base.  Given the environment today, there are many options to choose from.

Good luck!