From the outset of my Twitter experience I noticed a distinct lack of practical information regarding how indie bands and musicians can use Twitter to their advantage. Sure, there are some loose guidelines out there on this subject, but nothing grounded in real-world experience. That’s why I decided to start @Bands. I want to share my experiences in hopes that, if nothing else, they might inspire you to get your band on Twitter and engage the community. Essentially, this blog will end up being one big, ongoing case study.

I’ve been Twittering for my band, Shining TV Screen, for about three months (I’m a relative newbie compared to some). In that time I’ve accrued meaningful followers, met some truly inspiring and generous people, and learned a few things about how to use Twitter to promote a band. Caveat: I don’t profess to be any kind of expert on this subject. In fact, I’m anything but an expert, but that’s the beauty of Twitter: you can use it any way you want, as long as you’re yourself.

So let me take a moment to break it down for you (no, I will not be beat-boxing). I intend to write a short article every week on each of the following subjects:

#FollowFriday – Twitter is an amazing networking tool. I’ve met some intelligent and unique people on Twitter. Not only have most of them added real value to my Twitter adventures with Shining TV Screen, but they have been interesting and engaging as well. In #FollowFriday, I’ll tell you about some of the people I’ve met and how they’ve helped my band.

#Tweeps – If you don’t follow anyone, there’s a good chance no one is going to follow you. But it all comes down to deciding who to follow. #Tweeps will explain some of the tools I’ve used to find meaningful people to follow.

#Misc – In-the-moment insights about Twitter. #Misc will be anything that doesn’t fit into the other categories.

@Fans – Twitter is a great way to connect with your fan base. It is a chance to engage your fans one-on-one and build strong relationships with the people who are your best advocates (people who genuinely like you and your music). @Fans will enumerate some of the ways I use Twitter to reach out to fans.

Unfortunately, I won’t be able to write anything more than a #FollowFriday article this week, as I’m finishing my study abroad term and I’m about to embark on a two week European vacation (stop acting like you’re jealous). When I return home, however, I intend to update regularly.

I’d love to hear any feedback on this plan or suggestions you may have. Feel free to shoot me an email at atbands@gmail.com and let me know what you think.