How to Grow a Cult Fanbase in the Urban Music Scene

Published: July 19, 2025
Category: Music Business & Strategy
By In Da Streets Radio

In a digital music world full of viral moments, the most powerful asset an artist can have isn’t just streams or followers — it’s a cult fanbase.

These aren’t casual listeners. Cult fans buy every release, travel for shows, and promote you like family. And in 2025, artists who build strong, loyal fan communities can outperform those with ten times the exposure.

Here’s how to grow a real, ride-or-die following in the urban music scene.

—

1. Stand for Something Real

Cult followings form around identity, not just music. Artists like Larry June, LaRussell, or Nipsey Hussle didn’t just make music — they represented a mindset.

Ask yourself:

• What do you stand for?
• What does your brand mean beyond bars and beats?
• What can your fans relate to or believe in?

Whether it’s hustle culture, fashion, mental health, or independence — own it. Speak on it consistently. Your fanbase will reflect it.

—

2. Prioritize Depth Over Width

Focus on building deeper relationships with 100 fans rather than reaching 10,000 who scroll past.

Practical ways to go deep:

• Respond to DMs and comments with intention
• Remember fans’ names, cities, or stories
• Create personal content (behind-the-scenes, voice notes, freestyles)
• Host intimate livestreams or listening sessions

Your energy should feel less like a celebrity and more like a leader of a movement.

—

3. Build Your Own Ecosystem

Don’t rely only on TikTok or Spotify. Build your own platforms to control the narrative and engagement.

Key platforms:

• Email newsletters (Substack, Mailchimp)
• Text message groups (Community, SimpleTexting)
• Private Discords or Telegram groups
• Physical merch drops and exclusive events

The tighter your circle, the more valuable the experience becomes for your fans.

—

4. Create Rituals and Inside Language

Cult fanbases speak their own language. Think Drake’s “6,” Kendrick’s “oKlama,” or Griselda’s ad-libs.

Give your fans things to repeat, post, and chant:

• Nicknames for fans
• Custom hashtags
• Signature phrases or visuals
• Rituals around releases (e.g. “drop day challenges,” 24-hr exclusives)

This creates familiarity and turns listeners into participants.

—

5. Reward Loyalty Publicly and Privately

Fans stay loyal when loyalty is returned.

Tactics that work:

• Shout out top supporters online
• Offer early access or limited merch
• Bring fans on stage
• Thank them by name in credits or videos
• Host giveaways tied to engagement

Let your supporters feel like part of your journey — not just observers.

—

6. Don’t Chase Virality — Chase Resonance

Viral moments fade. But songs, videos, and posts that deeply connect will be replayed, quoted, and shared for years.

Focus on storytelling, message, and consistency.

If a fan says, “Your music got me through something,” you’ve already won more than an algorithm could offer.

—

In Da Streets Radio Advice

We’ve seen the power of grassroots fanbases. Some artists get more show bookings, merch sales, and sponsorship offers from a small but passionate audience than from big playlists.

Cult followings are built, not bought.

So stop chasing quick fame. Build a world your audience wants to live in.

Need help reaching the right people who will support your sound long-term? Submit to In Da Streets Radio and let us amplify your voice the right way.