Aidan Cotter

WordPress is an amazing tool thanks to the thousands of people who use it. Having worked on several web site’s for local musicians, Ive come across many plug-ins that are great for enhancing your online presence while establishing a good relationship with your fans. Here I have picked my top 5 to help you boost interest in your band and get positive traffic coming your way!

Audio Player:

There’s no better way to get fans or an important Record Label listening to your music in seconds!
The player I have picked is : Flash MP3 Player JW2.3

Why I have picked it:

• This player is simple to install as a sidebar widget
• You can also add your Album artwork
• Customizable background
• Play-lists including a Shuffle feature

You can download or check out a demo here!

Gallery:

Live gig’s, Band practice, Behind the scenes…shoot it, post it!
The gallery I have picked: NextGEN Gallery

Why I have picked it:

• Easy to manage
• Lightbox function
• Multiple galleries
• Looks great!

You can download or check out a demo here!

Shop:

Merchandise, Albums or E.P’s? You have them…Sell them!
The shop i have picked: WP e-Commerce

Why I have picked it:

• Perfect for Bands
• One page checkout
• Integration with Facebook market
• Paypal & Google Checkout friendly

You can download or check out a demo here!

Gig Calender

“Am I free tonight?…let me check my calender! NO WAY….MY FAVOURITE BAND ARE PLAYING!!”
the Gig calender I have picked: Gig Press

Why I have picked it:

• Manage your past and future gigs!
• Add Venue, Time and Entrance fee
• Features RSS and iCalendar feeds
• Really easy to use!

You can download or check out a demo here!

Mailing List

“Hey look I got an email from my favourite band”! Keep your fans updated on forth coming gigs, recordings or just any old news at all!
The Mailing List I have picked: G-Lock Double Opt-In Manager

Why I have picked it:

• Easy install
• User’s can subscribe straight from you site
• sends a welcome email to each new subscriber (optional)
• You can export your mailing list from WordPress for the use in your email program
• You can customize the sign up form as you like!

You can download or check out a demo here!

And that’s it, with the help of these plug-ins your band site should be rockin’ in no time, and if you have any suggestions for the list let me know !