From Cover Songs to 2M Streams: Tristan Roberson’s Guide to Growing as an Indie Artist

Tristan Roberson is a rising country artist blending classic influences with a fresh, modern sound. Starting with cover songs, Tristan quickly found his own voice, using multiple instruments to shape his songwriting.

With 2 million streams and 143,000 social media followers, his journey proves that patience and consistency pay off. As Tristan prepares to release his debut album, he shares insights on staying true to his roots, connecting with fans, and building a lasting career in country music.

What advice would you give to other artists wanting to create their own music but are starting out by covering songs?

Covering songs is a great way to develop your voice and build confidence, but the key is to make each song your own. Don’t just copy somebody’s style and inject it into your style. Of course you can use inspiration, but don’t be afraid to put out music that YOU love.

How do you balance staying true to your roots while also innovating and appealing to modern audiences?

I have to keep in mind when I write these songs that I’m writing these not only for me to sing to you, but for you to listen. I know we are in an age that doesn’t know much traditional country and my goal is to bring that traditional feel back into country music that the new country listeners can enjoy as well.

How has your ability to play different instruments shaped your songwriting process? Do you think it’s important for artists to learn multiple instruments?

Playing multiple instruments opens many doors for songwriting. Sometimes a song idea comes from a guitar riff, while other times, I’ll sit at a piano and discover a melody. It helps me approach songwriting from different angles. I feel like artists should learn multiple instruments to understand more about the instruments. With that knowledge, you can learn how to put the instruments into your song when you go to produce it. 

Can you share a specific moment when patience paid off for you in your career?

Absolutely. When I first started putting out original music, I wanted everything to happen fast. I wanted high numbers, big shows, big opportunities. But, I’ve learned that growth in music is a slow build. As of now I’m sitting at 2 million streams, and 143,000 social media followers. That didn’t happen overnight. It was a result of staying consistent, putting in the work, the people who trust in me and my music cheering me on, and trusting the process.

What strategies have worked best to connect with your fans and grow your online presence as an indie artist?

The best way to reach an audience isn’t just a music ad, you have to make personal content. Singing songs made with an iPhone video has been one of my highest preforming video’s. A consistent schedule is also very important.

How do you approach writing lyrics that resonate with listeners while staying authentic to your own story?

I always start with something personal and try and make a way that can be more widely interpreted. I might write a song that starts with my experiences, but I can turn that experience into something everyone can relate to. People say all the time on my comments “this is exactly what happened” and that’s the whole goal of my music.

What advice would you give to other young indie artists looking to break into the country music scene, especially those juggling music with other responsibilities like school or family?

It’s all about balance and time management. If music is what you want, you have to be willing to make sacrifices—maybe that means late nights writing songs after school or missing out on some things to play gigs. But, don’t let the pressure of “making it” rush your journey. Build your craft, build your audience, and take the opportunities that align with your vision. And most importantly—stay patient and persistent.

How has Playlist Push contributed to your growth as an artist?

Playlist Push has been a game-changer in getting my music in front of the right listeners. As an indie artist, breaking through all the noise online is tough, but having a platform that connects my songs with engaged listeners has helped my audience grow in a real way. It’s not just about getting streams—it’s about finding fans who stick around and become part of the journey.

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