Stream your music on as many music social networks as you can find. You can create an artist profile on sites like BoomDizzle, ElectroGarden, InternetDJ, MySpace, PureVolume, Reverb Nation and more. Sign up with networks that cater to your style of music, upload your songs to the streaming servers, include a brief bio and band photos.
Obtain distribution deals with online music retailers like Amazon MP3, iTunes, Napster and Rhapsody. In order to market your music in this manner, you will need a UPC code and an ISRC code. Services like CD Baby, Nimbit, Reverb Nation and Tunecore will obtain these codes for your and distribute your music directly to these major retailers for a modest fee. Browse these websites and others to compare prices, and sign up with a service that suits you.
Sell your music independently. If you already have a fan base, you can advertise your music through your band's website and social networking pages. If you want to sell your own CDs, you can send your music and cover art to a CD replication company and have the album professionally packaged. Then you need only ship the CD to fans who order it. You can accept checks, cash, money orders or payment services like PayPal, AlertPay or Digital River. To accept direct credit card payments, you will need to purchase a shopping cart program.
Play gigs. If you want to get your music to the public, try bringing the music straight to the public. By performing live shows and setting up a merchandise table, you can present listeners with your music in a way that will make them want to buy it. Make sure to bring plenty of CDs to each show. If you do not know how to book shows, try creating a press kit and contacting the owners of clubs, bars, cafes and other potential live venues.