The CW network television show Supernatural ended its 15-year run in November 2020. Yes, you read that right. 15 years. 327 episodes. But it wasn’t canceled. The lead actors, Jensen Ackles, Jared Padalecki, and Misha Collins, decided it was time to go out on top.

For those unfamiliar with the show, it’s about Sam and Dean Winchester, two brothers who follow their father’s footsteps as hunters, fighting evil supernatural that roams the earth. Their motto is “saving lives, hunting things”.  

The show was more than the longest-running drama/horror/fantasy scripted television series in the United States and a 3-time Primetime Emmy nominee. Its fandom is a masterclass in fan building and loyalty.

I see two parallels between the show’s fandom and building a fanbase as a musician:

1. Fan engagement builds a supportive, loyal, lasting fanbase.
Fans are engaged when they get to know more about you, can relate to you, and when you show interest in getting to know them.  

2. Looking at your work from the perspective of your fans gives you invaluable insight.
If your fans are engaged with you, they can provide valuable feedback on your work. This doesn’t mean your fans dictate your work. It just allows you to see your work from their perspective and see what resonates with them. 

As a friend once told me, “I came for the music but stayed for the person.”

(this is an excerpt from my upcoming blog article)

Now let’s get to this issue’s 5 must-reads…