Black Note Graffiti

Elevating Black Note Graffiti Through Strategic Management

Black Note Graffiti is a hard rock/alternative metal band from Ann Arbor, Michigan. Despite their talent, they faced challenges in breaking through the noise and lacked the necessary strategic direction to elevate their career. To lay the groundwork, we leveraged our industry connections and successfully secured major festival opportunities, including opening for the Upheaval Festival in Grand Rapids and performing at NXNE Festival in Toronto. Additionally, a focused ticket-selling strategy led to 200 tickets being sold for Upheaval, solidifying BNG’s main stage presence.

Engagement and Ticket Sales Strategy:

Selling tickets posed a challenge, but we tackled it through four key strategies:
  • Dedicated Sales Link & Promo Code: A unique link with a 10% discount (promo code: BLACKNOTE) allowed us to track sales effectively.
  • Localized Advertising: Ad copy was tailored to mention both the city and festival promoters, ensuring maximum local relevance.
  • Targeted Audience Approach: We focused on existing BNG fans, past Upheaval attendees, and hard rock/metal fans within a 50-mile radius.
  • Live Performance Promotion: Ads showcased BNG’s electrifying stage presence to create excitement among potential ticket buyers.
Across multiple festival campaigns, the average CPM was $7, with ad spends ranging from $200–$500 and impressions averaging 35,000 per campaign.

Record Label Acquisition:

Recognizing the band’s potential, DCYPHER STUDIOS pitched their demo to a few select record labels. These efforts paid off when Black Note Graffiti secured a distribution deal with Golden Robot Entertainment’s Robot Distro, providing access to global distribution via The Orchard and marketing support to expand their reach.

Revenue Streams Consultation:

Beyond performances and distribution, we focused on maximizing the band’s revenue streams. Key initiatives included:
  • Merchandising: Assisting BNG in launching an online store to streamline sales.
  • Grant Acquisition: Secured funding from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, Washtenaw Creative, and other non-profits to offset production costs.

Publishing Administration:

To ensure proper royalty collection, we registered BNG’s setlists with BMI and all major licensing platforms, including Sound Exchange and The MLC. By shifting from Songtrust to self-publishing, the band now retains 100% of their backend royalties.

Touring & PR Campaign:

DCYPHER STUDIOS secured BNG as a supporting act for national tours alongside bands like Of Virtue and Smile Empty Soul, significantly expanding their fan base. A targeted PR campaign resulted in widespread media coverage, including podcast interviews, blog features, and terrestrial/internet radio play.

Results:

This holistic approach yielded measurable success for Black Note Graffiti:
  • 25% increase in impressions and sales
  • Expanded revenue streams and increased financial stability
  • Established major festival appearances
  • Secured a distribution deal with Golden Robot Entertainment
By refining their marketing, booking, revenue strategies, and industry positioning, Black Note Graffiti is now set for long-term success with their latest album release. DCYPHER STUDIOS continues to support their journey, ensuring sustained growth and opportunities in the evolving music landscape.