I'm currently playing an NFT game called Rising Star Game, by which you will go through different phase to reach the stardom as a rock star. It will start from busking until some hometown performances, headline slots, etc.

In real life, it can happen. However, it depends on how the record label will consider your willingness to comply with their decisions, either artistically and appearance. Or else, producing your own album would be difficult.

Many superstar nowadays has found creative freedom after their initial fame from their debut or even sophomore album. Sales of their succeeding albums may also depend on how the recording company will support their record. If there's lack of promotion, even you are a superstar, album sales may be lower than it should be.

There are different kinds of promotions that will make albums gain sales and streaming numbers.

TV show appearances

A recording artist may show up in a TV program, commonly in a talk show, to promote their new album. At times it will work, but it may not be enough in most instances. Thus, many singers don't dwell in a single appearance, rather do TV show hopping for more appearances.

TV commercials

TV advertisement is an effective way to sell a product, including an album. Of course, if it will be shown in a program with most views, it is expected to be more expensive. They may also opt for YouTube ads too.

Social media presence

Being active in social media is a good tool to promote a new album. It actually worked to many artists. Giving a cryptic message pertaining to a new record will have it gain interests towards the upcoming release. Other artists do AMA (or ask me anything) to interact with their fans.

Release multiple singles before album release

Many artists nowadays release a single first before announcing a new album. Oftentimes, another single (or singles) will be released in an anticipation for a new album.

Album bundles

This has been very common since the last few years. Other artists release their new album with bundles, either merchandise or concert tickets. Actually, it worked well, but oftentimes during the first week alone. Remember the latest album of Celine Dion which debuted at number 1, and fell off the top 100 on its second week.

Surprise release

Surprise releases of albums has worked to some, but it can be boring if an artist do it again and again. Beyonce succeeded with her self-titled fifth album, which sold huge on its first few days after its surprise release. It worked again with "Lemonade". But her collaboration with husband Jay Z, as The Carters, didn't work well. It worked for Taylor Swift too. If you are established artist, this is effective, but don't overdo.

Announce a tour

Album sales earnings is just a small piece of a pie. Oftentimes, a concert tour is where the huge chunk of earnings come from. At the same time, concert tours is also a way to promote an album.

Remixes

If a lead single was released, and it was a hit, releasing a remix version will make it a bigger hit. If the song is a moderate hit, a reminder x will make it earn more sales, streaming, and airplays.

Radio tours

Radio tour is still very effective in America. DJs play your music. If they don't like you, don't expect airplays. If you came to visit them in their shows, that will probably work. If your record label paid them for airplays, then you'll earn more. However, it sounds like some kind of cheating, though some radio stations are hungry for money.

Funny how some fandoms accuse other artists they don't like for cheating the numbers. Back then, Lady Gaga was criticized when her album "Born This Way" was sold in a very cheap price for few days, and it shouldn't have been included in total sales, but chart policies were changed, which became an advantage to the artist. Award shows are also accused that some judges are paid as well. There will always be accusations, and numbers are not always organic. They say it's part of the business, but it will never be organic.

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