Generate eight new content ideas in eight minutes
The Crazy Eight speed-brainstorming method explained for artists
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Generate eight new content ideas in eight minutes
This brainstorming method is perfect for artists who struggle with creative blocks when developing content ideas.
Why it matters
The music industry moves quickly, and artists who can consistently generate fresh ideas stand out from those who stagnate. A reliable ideation process is essential for maintaining an engaging presence.
Many artists hit creative walls when planning social media content and marketing strategies, finding themselves recycling the same ideas or feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to produce engaging content.
A structured brainstorming method like Crazy Eights provides a framework to quickly generate multiple creative concepts without overthinking.
How it works
Crazy Eights is a rapid-ideation brainstorming method that generates eight ideas in eight minutes. It originates from design sprints but adapts perfectly to music marketing creativity.
Preparation: Fold a piece of paper into eight sections (or use a digital template with eight frames).
Set a timer: The key is speed - eight formats in eight minutes. This time constraint prevents overthinking and perfectionism and forces artists to distill ideas to their essence without getting lost in details.
Focus on quantity: For each section, quickly sketch a different concept related to the creative challenge (e.g., "Social media content formats for the artist"). These aren't finished formats, just rough visualisations of concepts.
Review and refine: After completing all eight formats, evaluate which ideas have the most potential and develop them further.
Yes, but..
The Crazy Eights method works best in collaborative settings where multiple people can build upon each other's ideas. Solo artists might find it challenging to generate diverse concepts without external input.
To overcome this limitation, artists should consider organising brainstorming sessions with other artists from their scene or community.
Solo brainstorming can still be effective, but collaborative sessions typically yield more varied results and build community simultaneously.
Take action now
Artists can implement the Crazy Eights method immediately by inviting 2-3 other artists from the same scene for a collaborative brainstorming session. While at it, they might use the opportunity to create music or content together.
Your thoughts
Further reading
Knapp, J., Zeratsky, J., & Kowitz, B. (2016). Sprint: How to solve big problems and test new ideas in just five days.
Crazy 8's (Google Design Sprint Kit)
How to develop a content strategy using a model for YouTubers (The Fanbase Builder)
How artists can regain control over their marketing efforts (The Fanbase Builder)
Using templates to get started with TikTok (The Fanbase Builder)
Artists should work with creative people, instead of hiring marketing gurus (The Fanbase Builder)