The music industry is an exciting yet complex world. Independent artists, in particular, face numerous challenges, one of which is the threat of music promotion scams. The advent of digital platforms has made it easier for independent artists to reach global audiences, but it has also opened the door to fraudsters looking to exploit these artists. At Daimoon Media, we believe in helping independent artists navigate through this industry safely and successfully. Our post will highlight some potential music promotion scams to watch out for in 2026 as recommended by our expert team at Daimoon Media.

Pay-For-Play Scams

One of the most common forms of music promotion scams is the pay-for-play model. This is where a promoter promises to get your music played on radio stations or popular playlists for a fee. Unfortunately, some of these promoters do not actually have the connections they claim to have, and they simply take your money without delivering any results. Always do thorough research on any promoters you are considering, and never pay for services upfront without a guarantee of results.

Social Media Promotion Scams

Social media platforms are instrumental for music promotion, but they are also rife with scams. Fake followers or likes, aggressive promotion bots, and ‘guaranteed’ viral campaigns are just a few examples. Always ensure that any social media promotions you invest in provide real, organic growth rather than empty numbers.

PR Agency Scams

Not all PR agencies have your best interests at heart. Some might promise extensive media coverage, high-profile interviews, and more, only to deliver poorly-written press releases or no results at all. Always choose reputable PR agencies, and ask for examples of successful campaigns they’ve run previously.

Ticket Scams

Ticket scams are another common issue, especially for live performances. Be wary of third-party ticket sellers who charge exorbitant prices, sell fake tickets, or fail to deliver tickets altogether. Always direct your fans to purchase tickets from reputable sources.

At Daimoon Media, we’re dedicated to providing independent artists with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the music industry. We believe in promoting music organically, ethically, and effectively, without resorting to deceptive tactics or scams. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.