How many of you like me? I mean, really, really like me? ‘Cause all I need is a thousand.

At least that’s according to Kevin Kelly. And after reading his long but well-reasoned explanation 1,000 True Fans I’m inclined to agree with him.

It all has to do with a product’s Long Tail and how it, while highly beneficial to many in the consumer equation, can be a real bummer for many of the creatives who actually develop the products:

“A creator, such as an artist, musician, photographer, craftsperson, performer, animator, designer, videomaker, or author - in other words, anyone producing works of art - needs to acquire only 1,000 True Fans to make a living.

A True Fan is defined as someone who will purchase anything and everything you produce. They will drive 200 miles to see you sing. They will buy the super deluxe re-issued hi-res box set of your stuff even though they have the low-res version. They have a Google Alert set for your name. They bookmark the eBay page where your out-of-print editions show up. They come to your openings. They have you sign their copies. They buy the t-shirt, and the mug, and the hat. They can’t wait till you issue your next work. They are true fans.”

A true must-read for any kind of struggling creative who wonders if there is a model for “making it.” Just as much a must read for any small business looking for a realistic approach to developing brand champions and a profitable customer base.

1,000 True Fans