Documentary-style music videos isn’t just extra—it’s essential. It gives fans a glimpse into the process, the chaos, and the humanity behind the music. Here’s why every artist should embrace behind-the-scenes storytelling.
The Power of Being Real
We live in the era of oversaturation. Every artist has a social media page, a Spotify playlist, and a perfectly curated feed. But do you know what cuts through the noise? Authenticity. People crave the raw, unfiltered moments that reveal what it really takes to create music.
85% of consumers say authenticity is a key factor in choosing who to support, according to Stackla. Fans want to connect with the artist, not the polished, PR-approved image. They want the messy studio floors, the late-night brainstorms, and the moments when inspiration strikes in the middle of a coffee-fueled meltdown.
Fans Want to See the Sweat
Behind-the-scenes content does something magical: it humanizes artists. Whether it’s a documentary about the grueling process of recording an album or a quick Instagram Reel showing a lyric scribbled on a napkin, these glimpses create a bond that no amount of polished content can replicate.
Your fans don’t just want the song; they want the story behind it.
The Marketing Goldmine
Let’s talk strategy. Documentary-style music videos aren't just feel-good fluff; it’s a marketing powerhouse. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok reward consistent, engaging content. Behind-the-scenes videos are perfect for this—they’re quick, authentic, and endlessly shareable.
Stats to back it up: According to HubSpot, 54% of consumers want to see more video content from brands and creators. And behind-the-scenes footage often outperforms traditional content in engagement rates. Why? Because it feels real.
Example: Robert Glasper and Raised Media Co worked together to film a behind-the-scenes music video to document their Jazz Christmas Album recording process. Fans tune in, comment, and share, building hype for the release. By the time the album drops, the audience feels like they’ve been part of the journey.
Behind-the-scenes content isn’t just storytelling; it’s fan-building.
What It Takes to Go Behind the Scenes
Creating behind-the-scenes content doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to get started:
Document Everything: From studio sessions to soundcheck mishaps, every moment has potential.
Be Honest: Don’t sugarcoat the process. Fans love the highs and the lows.
Keep It Short: Attention spans are short, so make every second count. Quick clips often perform better than long videos.
Collaborate: Involve your team, producers, and even other artists to add depth to your content.
The Return on Investment of Being Real
Behind-the-scenes content doesn’t just build connections; it builds value. It turns casual listeners into loyal fans and loyal fans into advocates. When your audience feels invested in your journey, they’re more likely to stream your music, buy your merch, and show up to your shows.
It’s not just about selling; it’s about storytelling. And that, in the music world, is priceless.
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