Big news from Instagram: you can no longer “follow” hashtags! This update is shaking up the way hashtags work on the platform, and if you’re a DJ, music producer, or creator, here’s what it means for your growth strategy.

The Death of Hashtag Growth?

For years, hashtags have been touted as a key tool for discovery and engagement on Instagram. But their impact has been steadily declining, and this latest change is another step in their diminishing relevance.

Here’s what’s changing:

• No More Following Hashtags: If you follow a hashtag like #techhouse, you’ll no longer see posts from that hashtag in your feed. Instagram has completely removed the ability to follow hashtags.
• Feed Recommendations: Posts from hashtags you once followed will no longer pop up in your feed.

This means hashtags are even less effective for growth and engagement than they were a year or two ago.

Should DJs and Producers Stop Using Hashtags?

Not entirely. Hashtags still have a purpose, but they’re no longer the growth hack they once were. Here’s the updated approach:

1. Use Fewer Hashtags: You don’t need to cram 30 hashtags into every post or add them to the first comment anymore. A couple of well-chosen hashtags can help categorize your content without feeling spammy.
2. Shift Your Focus: Hashtags are no longer a growth strategy. Instead, think of them as labels for your posts.

What to Focus on Instead

To grow your Instagram presence as a DJ or music producer, your strategy needs to evolve. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Create Shareable Content: Posts that people want to share with their audience will drive organic reach. Think memes, behind-the-scenes moments, or tips for other creators.
• Spark Conversations: Encourage meaningful interactions with your content. This could be through engaging captions, polls, or asking your followers for their opinions.
• Support the Community: Showcase and promote other artists’ music. When you uplift others, it fosters a sense of community and makes your profile more valuable to your audience.

The Takeaway

While hashtags might be losing their shine, Instagram’s focus on meaningful connections and shareable content presents new opportunities. By adapting your strategy to align with these changes, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and keep your audience engaged.

Now’s the time to rethink how you use Instagram for your music career—focus less on hashtags and more on creating content that resonates and connects.