You can't push your music at fans

The internet allows artists to spread their music in a myriad of ways in an attempt to build a fanbase.

But, often, this comes across as salesy and hyped. So, although the playing field has been levelled, it seems that there is still a need for a filter that people can trust that will validate your art.

Yes, you can persuade fans one by one online or in the real world by pushing music at them, but isn't it better to be everywhere with a following wind of recommendation?

Have you ever been in a subway in any major city and have seen a musician with a box of tapes or CDs saying 'hey check out my music!'? Maybe that musician was on a street corner or outside of a club, but it’s all the same idea. These musicians are pushing music at you, expecting you to listen because they say it's good.

Now take a step back and look at what musicians, yourself included, are doing through social media: 

Pushing, Pushing and PUSHING!

Whether you realize it or not, 'promoting', or spamming your music in this sense is exactly the same as sitting in a subway stop and telling people to listen to your music. It is a complete waste of time and is not by any means a recommended way to build a strong fan base and increase sales.

What is the biggest problem with this situation?

Read a great piece on this from Mic Control.