The PromoGod Formula: Ads, Content, and Organic Growth

The One More Time Podcast recently welcomed none other than James “PromoGod” Green, a music marketing guru whose work has elevated unknown artists to streaming stardom. Known for his unorthodox strategies and no-nonsense advice, PromoGod didn’t hold back on sharing his secrets to success. In this episode, he detailed his journey, dropped actionable marketing gems, and gave a masterclass on how independent artists can stand out in today’s crowded music scene.

From Zero to 50,000 Monthly Listeners

PromoGod began with a tale that underscores his marketing prowess. Starting with an artist who had zero monthly listeners on Spotify, he implemented a hyper-focused ad campaign strategy. By allocating the artist’s modest $2,000 budget over a concentrated 48-hour period, the campaign not only drove 7,000 direct streams but also triggered Spotify’s algorithmic playlists, catapulting the artist to 50,000 monthly listeners.

"Artists need to understand it’s all about timing and creating the right moment," he emphasized. "The first 24 to 48 hours of a song release are critical. That’s when you make the biggest impact."

Key Strategies for Independent Artists

1. Content Marketing is King

PromoGod’s first tip was simple: make content a daily priority. He emphasized that the smartphone is the most powerful tool in an artist’s arsenal. “Your phone is your biggest tool,” he said. “You don’t need a big budget; you just need authenticity.”

He advised artists to focus on raw, authentic videos rather than polished, overproduced content. Whether it’s a freestyle in the studio, behind-the-scenes clips, or even a candid moment of self-reflection, fans connect better with genuine content. “Keep it simple and organic. People want to see the real you.”

For artists looking to monetize directly, TikTok Live is a goldmine. PromoGod highlighted how independent artists could earn up to $5,000 a month from live interactions alone. “Talk to your audience, engage with them, and make them part of your journey. It’s not just about your music; it’s about building relationships,” he said.

2. Understand Your Brand

According to PromoGod, branding is more than just fonts and colors—it’s the story you tell. “Your brand is what you represent outside of your songs,” he explained. “It’s your values, your lifestyle, and the emotional connection you create with your audience.”

He pointed to Tyler, the Creator, as a standout example. “Tyler’s brand is all about creativity and individuality. It’s not just about the music—it’s his fashion, his humor, and his risk-taking. That’s why his fans stick with him,” he said.

PromoGod stressed that artists shouldn’t be afraid to evolve their brand over time. “What your story starts as doesn’t have to be what it ends as. Your brand should grow with you.”

3. Timing is Everything

The first 48 hours of a song release are critical. PromoGod revealed that this window is when Spotify pays the most attention to a song’s performance. “If you can drive streams early, the algorithm will take notice. That’s when Discover Weekly and Release Radar playlists start kicking in,” he said.

To maximize this opportunity, PromoGod recommends releasing multiple pieces of content leading up to and during the release. “You need at least 20 to 30 pieces of content ready to go before the release date. That way, you can keep people engaged without scrambling for ideas.”

4. Targeted Ad Campaigns

While organic content is key, PromoGod also stressed the importance of well-targeted ad campaigns. He outlined a strategy that balances budget efficiency with maximum impact.

“If you’re working with a small budget, don’t spread it thin over weeks. Focus your spend in the first two days of the song’s release,” he advised. For one of his artists, this approach resulted in an explosion of algorithmic playlist adds and a massive increase in streams.

Targeting the right audience is equally important. PromoGod suggested using lookalike audiences and interest-based targeting to zero in on listeners who are most likely to engage with the music. “If your song sounds like Tyler, the Creator’s work, target his audience. If it’s more meditative and spiritual, focus on people interested in meditation and wellness,” he said.

5. Batch Creation for Consistency

PromoGod emphasized the importance of consistency and offered practical advice on how to achieve it. “Batch-create your content,” he said. “On your day off, shoot 10 to 20 videos. Change outfits, switch locations, and record everything in one go. Then, schedule those posts throughout the month.”

6. Focus on Call-to-Actions

PromoGod noted that one of the biggest mistakes artists make is neglecting call-to-actions. “A viral post means nothing if it doesn’t convert,” he said. Artists should include direct links to their music and encourage fans to click through. “Track link clicks and adjust your strategy based on what’s working.”

Who is PromoGod?

James Green, better known as PromoGod, didn’t become a music marketing expert overnight. Starting as a passionate music fan, he transitioned into marketing by studying audience behaviors and leveraging data-driven insights. His career has been defined by helping underdog artists achieve massive success, often with minimal resources.

"I built my brand with just my phone," he said, emphasizing that hard work and creativity can outweigh big budgets.

PromoGod’s approach to marketing is rooted in authenticity and relatability. “You have to make people feel like they’re part of your journey. If you represent what they represent, they’ll want to see you succeed.”

Tips for Rolling Out a Song

When asked how artists should approach releasing new music, PromoGod offered a detailed blueprint:

1. Pre-Release Content: Focus on what’s already working. “Promote your existing catalog to gather data on your audience. Once you know what resonates, use that information to craft your new release strategy.”

2. Build Anticipation: Use behind-the-scenes footage, teasers, and live Q&A sessions to hype the release.

3. Go All-In Post-Release: The first 48 hours are key, so don’t hold back. Release multiple pieces of content and run targeted ads during this critical window.

   
   

Parting Advice

PromoGod’s mantra for independent artists is simple: “Don’t just make music—create moments.” His combination of storytelling, content marketing, and strategic ad placement offers a blueprint for turning listeners into loyal fans.

“The music industry is a grind, but if you represent what your audience represents, they’ll want to be part of your journey,” he said.

As the episode wrapped, PromoGod left aspiring musicians with one crucial piece of advice: “You don’t need a huge budget to make an impact. You just need to connect with your audience on a personal level. Consistency, authenticity, and strategy will take you further than any amount of money.”