Hi! 👋 I'm Carlo Kiksen, freelance strategist ⚡️ with a passion for music, creativity, and underground culture.

I work with artists, creators, and music brands to build genuine connections with their audiences. With over a decade of experience combining creative marketing with cultural understanding, I create strategies that cut through the digital noise.

Creating moments that stop people from scrolling

Let's be honest: The industry is drowning in algorithm chasers and marketing gurus. I take a refreshingly human approach.Modern marketing should focus on entertaining people, not just crunching numbers. It's about creating moments that stop thumbs from scrolling and turn passive listeners into passionate advocates.My strategies prioritise human connection over algorithmic tricks. Whether for an emerging artist or an established festival, I believe in creating experiences that resonate emotionally.

Cultural relevance matters

The most successful artists and brands don't just participate in culture; they become an integral part of it. Finding a niche or scene is essential.My approach digs deep into the cultural contexts where creativity naturally thrives. By identifying the communities, conversations, and cultural moments that align with the artistic vision, we create strategies that feel authentic rather than forced.From underground electronic scenes to mainstream pop culture, I help you navigate and position yourself within the cultural landscapes that matter most to your growth.

How I can work with you

I work with clients across the music industry to develop practical strategies that get results. My services include creative, digital, content, social strategies artist brand development event marketing release strategies funding applications (marketing chapters) advertising: meta, tiktok, youtube and more.Explore newsletter.thefanbasebuilder.co to discover my expertise and vision on marketing.Here's how I work:

  • Freelance (interim) work: Bring me on board to spearhead your marketing efforts during critical campaign periods. I’m an experienced senior marketer with expertise in creative marketing, content strategies and social media strategies. projects or interim work project or day rate

  • Monthly retainers: Ongoing strategic guidance to align your brand and marketing efforts. Include me in your team to bring external digital and creative strategy expertise into your project. ongoing projects monthly retainer

  • Public speaking & guest lectures: Engaging talks on artist branding, music marketing, fan engagement, and social strategy.

Join 1k+ artists, creators and music industry executives who read The Fanbase Builder

The Fanbase Builder is my weekly strategy newsletter. Join the hundreds of artists, creators and music industry executives who receive it for free:

New editions are published every Tuesday at 10:00 AM CET ✨

Why choose me

Having collaborated with over 50 brands and artists; from independent artists to major festivals like ESNS, legendary venues such as Paradiso Amsterdam, record labels like Revealed Recordings, and stadium shows like Groots met een zachte G; I bring insights few strategists experience few can match.My approach has helped artists like Eefje de Visser and Paceshifters launch critically acclaimed albums, supported music tech products like Maddix Rumble VST and Sick Individuals Focus One to achieve international success, and enabled festivals to secure crucial funding through compelling grant applications.I don't just understand marketing theory; I've experienced the music industry from multiple angles, giving me a unique perspective on what truly resonates with audiences.

Let's create something cool

Let's chat if you're looking for straightforward strategies that connect with real people.✉️ E-mail me at carlo@thefanbasebuilder.co to discuss your project, my rates, and availability. I'm available for freelance work, consulting, coaching, speaking, teaching, or writing opportunities.