Artists Engage Fans With Contests, Websites, and More

Keith Urban

Fan engagement is key to artist success these days. Here are some of the latest ways musicians are exciting consumers and getting them involved.

To mark next week’s release of his latest single “I’m In,” Keith Urban is asking fans to submit their favorite “I’m In” story at his website for the chance to win music, concert tickets or an autographed guitar. “I’m In” stories can include making a commitment to a significant other, dedicating oneself to a charity, or any number of interpretations.

Kenny Chesney’s online station No Shoes Radio has teamed with Hooters to launch a national sweepstakes for a trip to his July 2 show at the Joint at the Vegas Hard Rock. There is also a text-to-win component where fans text “Kenny” to 36832 to register. Fans can pick up a free 4-song Chesney compilation, produced exclusively for Hooters/No Shoes Radio, at select locations.

Randy Houser

Randy Houser is offering fans a free ringtone when they vote for him for USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of the Year at the upcoming CMT Awards. His hit “Boots On” is in the running at CMT.com. As a thank-you, fans can opt to receive a free ringtone of Houser laughing, taken from his popular “LOL” viral video.

Wynonna Judd has launched a new online community at wynonna.com built by Nashville-based social commerce network Moontoast.com. Moontoast combines traditional social networking with commerce tools. Now Wy’s fans can communicate with each other, connect with her on Facebook and Twitter, access exclusive content and enjoy broader access to her merchandise and music.

David Bradley is challenging fans to creatively utilize the title of his new single “Soak It Up,” along with radio call letters, DJ names, or other outlet ID’s in a video. The footage will possibly be included in the song’s music video. Bradley is a staff songwriter with Wrensong Publishing in Nashville.

The Harters are blogging from the road to give fans an inside look at life on tour. The band (siblings Michael, Leslie and Scott) is currently on a rigorous nationwide radio tour in support of their debut single “Jenny” and fans can be there every step of the way by visiting their website (www.theharters.tv) and checking out their weekly blogs featuring stories, photos and video.