Q&A: Morena Commms Website Designer, Derrick Kityo on Website Branding for Independent Artists

‍

In the realm of crafting compelling online spaces for independent music artists, the blend of distinctive branding and effective SEO tactics are paramount. Derrick Kityo, designer of the Morena Comms website sat down with us to delve into the intricate dance of digital presence, creating a robust brand identity and increasing your discoverability.

‍

Q: How do you create a website that reflects the unique style and brand of an independent music artist?

‍

A: To craft a website that's as unique as the artist's sound, I start by getting into their headspace—what's their story, their style, who are they trying to reach? It's not just about slapping on aesthetics; it's about constructing a digital narrative. For example, if an artist has a bold, vibrant sound, that would translate into a website with striking colors and dynamic visuals that express their energy and ethos. I personalize every aspect, from the color scheme inspired by their latest album to the texture in their promo shots, ensuring the digital space is an authentic extension of the artist themselves. Leveraging Webflow's robust platform, I meticulously adjust each element to mirror the artist's true persona, bringing their brand to life online just as vividly as they do on stage.

‍

Q: What design elements on a website contribute to an artist's brand image, and how do you choose them?

‍

A: The selection of design elements—like colors, fonts, and layouts—is a tactical decision that should align with the artist's genre, target audience, and personal style. It's more than aesthetic—it's about communication. For instance, a soul singer might inspire a warm, vintage look, while a hip-hop artist might call for something bold and modern. The trick is to distill the artist's music and image into a visual language that can be consistently applied across all pages and platforms.

‍

Q: When crafting a website for an independent music artist, how would you ensure that the website's design remains in harmony with the artist's brand, and what steps do you take to achieve this balance?

‍

A: It's a mix of strategy and creativity. First, I'll create a style guide that nails down colors, fonts, and graphic elements. This is the DNA of the website. Then, it's about translating these elements into a user-friendly and visually compelling experience. Using Webflow, I can visually develop the site and make live tweaks with the artist, getting instant feedback to find that sweet spot between brand identity and functional design.

‍

Q: How do you ensure a consistent brand image on an artist's website, no matter the device or screen size?

A: Consistency across devices is non-negotiable. Webflow's responsive design features are key here—I use flexible grids and viewports to ensure that the visual impact of the site is just as powerful on mobile as on desktop. Testing across different screen sizes is part of the process, guaranteeing the artist's brand is always on point.