Bob Baker's The Buzz Factor

Have you heard of Geoff Byrd? If not, there's a good chance you'll be hearing a lot more about this Portland, Oregon, indie artist soon. I discovered Geoff by accident last month when I was checking out random tracks on GarageBand.com. He was all over the top of the site's pop charts, and I was instantly jazzed by his hooky songs and awesome voice. Little did I know this guy has been on a steadily increasing buzz train that appears to be leading to mainstream success.

Byrd is a former school teacher who credits one experience in the classroom as a defining moment in his career. "I was before the class one day going off on a tangent about following dreams at all costs. A student raised his hand and said, 'Mr. Byrd, we don't want to lose you as a teacher, but seriously, are you really following your own advice?' I knew he was right," Byrd says. "It was one of the most profound moments of my life."

Since then, Byrd has performed as a solo act, formed a band, recorded a CD called "Candy Shell" and created a buzz that has led to his songs being used in TV shows and played on radio stations across the country. GarageBand.com has been most responsible for spreading the digital buzz online. In fact, the site, wanting to be associated with Byrd's success, has gotten behind the artist in a big way.

This is a great example of an artist who has people talking primarily because they are excited by the songs. It's word-of-mouth marketing at its organic best. However, Byrd is no dummy. He realizes the power of his fanbase and deliberately asks for their help in spreading the word. Check out this "Help Me" page on his web site: www.geoffbyrd.com/helpme.htm

You should consider making the same request of your fans and supporters. In the meantime, keep an ear out for Geoff Byrd's catchy pop songs. Read more about him here.