Why Moving Fans from Social to Your Own Platform Changes Everything
Silverstein did something different with their latest release. Instead of the usual Instagram post, they turned their album drop into an experience, moving fans from social to their own store for a livestream reveal. Here's how they transformed what could've been just another social post into an actual moment with their fans - and why it worked so well.
The Setup: Start on Social, Build the Hype
Every good story needs a hook. Silverstein kicked things off with a simple tease on Instagram: "Livestream tomorrow with exciting news!" This got fans talking. Then, when the excitement was building, they dropped the bombshell: "We didn't record an album… we recorded TWO!"
But unlike most bands who would've left it there, Silverstein was just getting started.
What Made This Different: Moving Fans to Their Store
Instead of letting that momentum dissolve into the Instagram void, Silverstein invited fans somewhere special - their own Shopify store. This wasn't just about changing platforms; it was about creating a space where fans could:
- Chat directly with the band
- Be the first to pre-order the new record
- Hang out with other fans in a dedicated space
Most artists would've stopped at social. Post and pray, right? But Silverstein knew better: where you take fans after the announcement matters most.
The Livestream Setup: Making It Seamless
The key was keeping it simple. Single's integration let Silverstein stream directly within their Shopify store, with a product showcase beneath the video player. Fans could watch the announcement and pre-order without leaving the stream. No jumping between platforms, no lost momentum.
Breaking Down Why It Worked
Their strategy was simple but smart:
- Social to build the hype
- Livestream to connect
- Pre-orders ready to capture the moment
But the magic wasn't just in the steps - it was in how each part flowed into the next. Thousands showed up, their email list grew, and they got something even more valuable: a clear view of their real fans—the ones who don't just watch, but chat, share, and buy. That's the difference between renting attention and owning fan relationships.
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