We live in an era of interent celebrities and instant success. Anyone can be a model, singer, have a band, create clothes, jewelry, and come from any corner of the world. The power of social media will let you show your work to the world. And that is amazing, because if you're good, you will be noticed, you will get more opportunities and connect with people you never dreamed you could.
But there is a dark aura of depersonalization that comes along. Not for you, as an artist, but for your "fans" or "followers". I don't know which word I hate more. Pages are rated based on how many of the above they have, how many "likes" "shares" "comments" your photos/videos/music get. The curve on your "reach" scale, the nuber of clicks on your website. All of these likes, shares, clicks, and comments are actual PEOPLE.
People who took their time to scroll down through your page, to leave a comment. Real people, who took minutes from their coffee, or a movie they were watching, who stopped reading their emails to hit that famous like button. And I honestly appreciate that. I always try to reply to every comment and message. And it just breaks my heart when somebody says "Oh I can't beleve you are talking to me!". Why wouldn't I? You are the one supporting my work, you are the one who motivates me and makes me feel like I am doing good. The answer I usually get, when I ask why can't you believe I'm talking to you, is "Well I'm just an ordinary man/woman". So am I. And what does it mean ordinary? You are not worth less because you aren't a Facebook celebrity! You might be a doctor, who saves lives every day, or a scientist, or that lovely waitress at someone's favorite coffee shop. I know I met some amazing people through my page, and I cherish that experience. Just think about it, those are people who offer you so much positive energy and love, not asking anything in return. Isn't that just awesome? As an artist who depends very much on your audience, you must stop and ask yourself "What did I do to deserve all this love form complete strangers?". So get to know them, talk to them as much as you can and create a relationship, human relationship. Not one of a superior being and its worshipers.
So no, I will never call them my fans or followers, because they are so much more than that. They are my darlings, my dear people.