Jacob Forever – Release & Digital Strategy Partner
Jacob Forever is a prolific Cuban reggaeton artist known for his high-energy music and consistent release schedule. As his release and digital strategy partner, I’ve collaborated closely with him and his label, OneRPM, to navigate the complexities of the digital music landscape. My role has centered on streamlining release distribution, ensuring accurate metadata across platforms, and providing tailored support to maximize the impact of his frequent releases.
Challenges
- Competitive Landscape: The reggaeton genre is highly competitive, requiring a strategic approach to stand out and reach target audiences.
- Complex Split Sheets: Jacob Forever’s collaborations often involve multiple parties, creating intricate split sheets that require meticulous attention to detail and effective communication with all stakeholders to ensure fair compensation.
- High Release Frequency: The artist’s commitment to a consistent release schedule, sometimes releasing new music weekly, demands efficient workflows and streamlined processes to meet tight deadlines.
- Unique Artist Requests: Jacob Forever’s specific requests, such as custom artwork or unique promotional ideas, often require creative problem-solving and adaptability to accommodate his artistic vision while ensuring a successful release.
Process
- Building a Digital Foundation:
- Designed and developed a comprehensive website featuring a tour schedule, catalog, and in-depth content surrounding each release. This website serves as a central hub for fans to engage with Jacob Forever’s music and brand.
- Release Coordination and Execution:
- Worked closely with Jacob Forever’s attorney to ensure accurate metadata and artist splits for each release. Meticulously reviewed and finalized complex split sheets involving multiple collaborators, guaranteeing precise distribution of royalties and artist compensation.
- Developed efficient workflows and communication channels to streamline release processes and meet the demands of Jacob Forever’s frequent release schedule.
- Collaborated with graphic designers, video creators, and other creatives to develop engaging visuals and promotional materials.
- Coordinated promotional efforts across various platforms, including social media, streaming services, and press outlets.
- Digital Marketing Strategy Development:
- Created a cohesive digital marketing strategy, establishing content pillars aligned with Jacob Forever’s passions and career objectives.
- Identified key target audiences and developed tailored messaging for each platform.
- Provided ongoing guidance and support to ensure content remained consistent with the overall brand strategy.
- Content Creation & Amplification:
- Created content for Jacob Forever’s music releases, attending video shoots, studio sessions, and shows to capture behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive content.
- Supported the promotion of his vape brand, Rikoss, by collaborating with distributors and Tu Brands to create targeted marketing materials.
- Launched a successful “Throwback Thursday” (TBT) campaign, featuring archival content from previous shows and interviews to maintain consistent engagement.
Outcomes
- Increased Website Traffic & Engagement: The newly designed website became a central hub for fans, driving significant traffic and engagement.
- Accurate & Timely Releases: Ensured all music releases were distributed accurately and on time, adhering to Jacob Forever’s demanding schedule.
- Efficient Metadata Management: Streamlined metadata optimization across platforms, ensuring consistent and accurate information about each release.
- Increased Revenue: Maximized revenue potential for both Jacob Forever and his collaborators through meticulous split sheet management.
- Positive Artist Experience: Successfully accommodated Jacob Forever’s specific requests, fostering a strong working relationship built on trust and collaboration.
Key Metrics
- Growth in website traffic and social media engagement, including a 15% average on Spotify monthly listeners and YouTube channel views, plus a 40% growth in YouTube video views in one year.
- Increase in brand awareness and overall reach within the target market. This includes new fan increases monthly on platforms like Songkick and Bandsintown which help generate ticket sales and concert promotion.
- Investment with the label was recouped within 14 months and the artist is now generating more monthly income from YouTube and DSPs.