As musicians, we are always looking for inspiration...a really epic film you saw last week, a girl sitting across from you tapping their foot, and even the train that goes roaring by as you wait for it to pass. Inspiration seems to appear with no notice and leaves you with new insights into your music. Gaining a creative perspective is not only key for making compelling music, but also in getting your great music HEARD.

The design profession, surprisingly enough has a lot to offer in terms of making your music be viewed as irresistible. Why look at design? Besides from being creatives themselves, designers have become experts when it comes to creating pieces that immediately draw attention.

So what are the five top tips that designers would like to tell you as a musician?

1. Know Who You're Talking To

Designers at Nestle have defined without a doubt what their unique style is, who is their primary target audience, and the most effective ways to reach them. They have spend countless hours defining who it is exactly that they are trying to reach, they know not only who will notice their ad but will want to buy it. The same thing applies to your music. Know your ideal fan - those that will be attracted to you and your music to begin with. Who your ideal fan is will vary not just by the type of music you play, but also the image you have and the message you stand for. After you know who you're reaching out to, use your style in such ways that are meant to engage them specifically. Always keep your ideal fan in mind with everything you do. This will cause you to connect with your audience and stand out from all of the thousands of other bands that are just grabbing to be noticed.

2. You Only Have One to Make a First Impression

You and your band members don't write your music just to be heard, you write it to be felt. And that's how it should be with your brand identity and marketing. Whether it's interesting cd design, super sleek download cards, a supremely unique website, or must-have merch...the best work evokes an emotional response. Make it so that when that industry rep or potential fan encounters your stuff, they don't just see it, they feel an emotional connection to you. This is a major way to get through all of the noise; this is how you make a compelling first impression.

3. Less is More

Many designers have a mantra "simplicity is beauty." When you think about the most eye-catching ads, the most engaging designs, the even most creative furniture - they are those whose beauty is found in their simple design. In these beautiful designs, the viewer is not overwhelmed by a bunch of distractions from what is actually meant for them to take in. It is similar to how you treat your music as a work of art, and therefore stay away from overplaying in order to allow the music to come through. Similarly, make your merchandise, cd design, and all your promotional materials in a way that allows the observer room to absorb your message and develop a connection. Remember, less is more applies not only to your music, but also to your brand identity.

4. If It Does Not Sell It's Not Creative Enough

Do you have something unique to say? Are you fascinated with creating something new? If the answers to both of these questions is "yes", then make sure your promotions are as creative as your music. Instead of sticking to what has already been accomplished, concentrate on creating things that are memorable, have meaning, and make an impact. If your merch isn't selling, your download cards seem to be a bust, or no one seems to care about your press kits - reevaluate what you must do to make your marketing more interesting and compelling. Look at it all as creating pieces of art.

5. Know When to Follow the Rules and When to Break Them

In designing your brand and marketing your music, know the best practices, try everything, but only keep what works. Set your own rules and do something different. By doing this you will separate yourself from all the numerous musicians out there.

How can you take these five things and apply them both to your music and your marketing? What will you do now to separate yourself from just another good band?

Author Bio...

Nadine Gressett specializes in graphic design for musicians with Indie Graphic Design, where we show bands how to make a strong impact in the music industry. We combine marketing expertise, music industry knowledge, and graphic design skill to visually express your unique voice. Sign up now for free marketing and design tips at www.indiegraphicdesign.com.