In analog days, “meet and greets” were the preferred avenues for artist/fan interaction. Now people may be friends and followers before they become fans. This new, intimate dynamic is ideal for building a fanbase and a career from the ground up. This session examines the social and digital tools artists and managers have successfully used to launch careers. Monetizing a fan-base can take place completely outside the media spotlight – to the point that when it finally discovers you, you’ve already “arrived.”