As a performer, how can I increase my following?

King Solomon in the bible was wise enough to pen the quote "there is nothing new under the Sun." From skinny jeans to member's only jackets, everything we know and love has been done before. "Vintage" fashion, mixtapes, and sequels are all prime examples of the fact that we love a little "old" in the "new." Convinced yet? If not, think about the performers who are successful in our generation and think about how heavily they have sampled the works of great predecessors. Beyonce's big hair, black and white videos, vintage glam or Oprah's keen interest in African-American literature are subtle nods to past greats as they grab the baton with an interest in running their own race while still acknowledging the work of the past leg.  Ask the little black dress, or the strand of pearls, or the classic jean about how they got their following up and the story is all the same. Below are 4 easy ways to increase your following.

Tip #1: Be classic. Utilize something people already know and love and maximize it's potential by using your awesome talent to trademark it and make it contemporary. Drake is becoming a household name and did so by strategically rapping on beats he knew people already loved. On America's Next Top Model they are all given runway walks, poses, and styles yet the one who succeeds is the one who can take the abacus and turn it into a calculator. Unless you really are doing something brand new don't reinvent the wheel just figure out how to put your name on the treading.

Tip #2: Now Tip #1 does not tell you to be a copycat or common but someone will interpret it that way so hopefully this tip will clear it up. Be anything but usual. If everybody is passing out flyers you pass out water bottles with your name on it or if everyone is using classical for their ballet recital use a mixed R&B beat. Take the time to be creative and look where no one else is looking for followers. Hide and go seek is such a good game because it requires us to think about how our opponent is thinking and outsmart him. Start thinking and go where people didn't even expect you to. Don't be afraid to take chances within reason and if you blend new flavors with old recipes from Tip # 1 you will find your following increase.

Tip #3: Be seen. People can't buy a product that is not on the shelf likewise people can't see a performer who never performs. If you like poetry don't just perform at poetry jams because it will be the SAME poetry loving people most of the time. Spit a poem for a restaurant grand opening or concert intermission and mesmerize a new crowd. Don't just go out but spread out. Remember that year when Lil Wayne was on every song you knew? Case and point.

Tip #4: Be prepared. Oprah quotes "luck is when opportunity meets preparation." Do you think Jay-Z signed J. Cole because he asked J. Cole to spit a verse and J. Cole was like "oh can I get back to you on that?" No! You have to be prepared for opportunity whether it comes in a grocery store or in a high-rise meeting. Perfect your art and make sure that everywhere you go you are giving a Demo worthy performance. 

I am no expert but I do watch the game for plays. Hopefully one or all of this tips are helpful and not only increase your following but get your name next to a hashtag. #NF