Case Studies & Practical Application Flashcards

A manager is evaluating two promotional strategies: $5,000 in paid social ads vs. $5,000 in micro-influencer partnerships. For a new artist with no fanbase, which typically delivers better ROI?

Answer: Micro-influencer partnerships — they deliver higher engagement and trusted peer recommendations

Micro-influencers have higher engagement rates and audience trust, which converts better for unknown artists than broad paid ads.

An artist releases a song that goes viral organically on TikTok. What is the most important immediate action for the management team?

Answer: Capitalize by pitching Spotify editorial, booking press, and running targeted ads to convert viral attention into long-term fans

Viral moments are time-limited; teams must immediately activate all channels to convert casual listeners into committed fans.

A publicist is pitching a story about a new R&B artist to music journalists. Which pitch angle is most likely to get coverage?

Answer: A unique personal narrative tied to a timely cultural moment, paired with streaming data showing early traction

Journalists need a compelling 'why now' angle tied to cultural relevance and proof of momentum to justify coverage.

A band is deciding between signing with a major label that offers a 360 deal vs. staying independent. What is the core trade-off?

Answer: The 360 deal provides funding and infrastructure but the label takes a cut of all revenue streams including touring and merch

360 deals give labels a percentage of touring, merchandise, and endorsements in exchange for funding and promotional support.

A rapper's merchandise store generates $30,000 per year but has a 3% conversion rate on 100,000 visitors. What is the fastest way to increase revenue without increasing traffic?

Answer: Optimize conversion rate through better product photos, limited-edition drops, and streamlined checkout

Improving conversion rate on existing traffic is faster and cheaper than acquiring new visitors to boost merchandise revenue.

An artist wants to license their music for a Netflix documentary. Who typically controls the master recording license vs. the sync (composition) license?

Answer: The record label usually controls the master license while the publisher controls the sync license for the composition

Sync deals require two licenses: the master (usually owned by the label or artist) and the composition/publishing (controlled by the publisher or songwriter).

An artist's team notices that streams spike every Friday but drop sharply by Wednesday. What promotional habit would most effectively sustain mid-week listening?

Answer: Publish mid-week content like behind-the-scenes, acoustic versions, or social engagement that re-surfaces the track

Mid-week content refreshes discovery and re-engages existing listeners, smoothing out the typical post-Friday streaming drop-off.