Is paying for your fanbase really the only way?

News: 14th June 2010 by Stef Loukes under Artist Managers, Media

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/x_mrswarhol/3730713716/in/set-72157621020992460/

It's pretty much common knowledge that every unsigned act out there is trying to get heard, each trying to find new ways in which to increase their online prescence. There are thousands of companies actively targeting artists with 'pay-for-your-fans' style marketing schemes.

When 1,000 twitter followers will cost you just $87 on websites such as U-Social, it's understandable that some acts can be enamoured with this sort of easy growth marketing, with very little effort needed besides a credit card. However, surely gaining fans with real hard work and natural talent is still the best way to gain industry respect?

This article from The Guardian also looks into chartfixing, focusing on an Australian venture, Chartfixer in which just $25,000 could gain you top 25 chart success.