Who Is BubbleUp? Meet the Company Powering Digital Ecosystems for Jimmy Buffett, Toby Keith, Luke Bryan, and More

You may not know BubbleUp by name, but you definitely know the company they keep. Their client roster reads like a who’s who of music (and entertainment) royalty — Jimmy Buffett, Toby Keith, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, Tom Petty, James Brown, Wanda Sykes, The Black Keys, Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Eagles, The Avett Brothers, Khruangbin, Def Leppard, Aerosmith, and many more.

The following article was created in collaboration with DMN partner BubbleUp.

It Started with a Simple Idea.

Founded in 2004, BubbleUp was inspired by an idea that was rooted in the experience Coleman Sisson (BubbleUp’s Founder and CEO) had with the legendary Jimmy Buffett. If artists could find a way to connect directly with fans using digital means, more money would “bubble up” to the artist. With this simple idea, BubbleUp was born.

At a time when the music industry was just learning how to navigate the internet, BubbleUp was already building the software, systems, infrastructure, and marketing know-how that would shape how artists engage their audiences today. While others chased trends, BubbleUp focused on results — helping musicians create sustainable, profitable digital ecosystems long before “creator economy” was a buzzword.

The Power Behind the Stage

From legendary rock acts to comedians to breakout country stars, BubbleUp’s fingerprints are on some of the most successful digital presences in the business. Their work goes far beyond design — they build entire ecosystems that connect fans, drive sales, and amplify an artist’s brand online and off.

“We don’t just build websites, fan clubs, and online stores — we create digital ecosystems for artists,” says Mike Newman, CRO,  BubbleUp. “We then craft digital marketing strategies that drive fans directly into those ecosystems.” 

“Ultimately, our mission is to help artists develop stronger relationships with their fans and generate more revenue from the online channel”.

Turning Fans Into a Digital Community

BubbleUp’s secret sauce lies in its understanding of how to connect artists directly to their audiences. The company helps artists create and monetize fan clubs, memberships, exclusive experiences, and online stores — all seamlessly integrated with touring, merchandise, and social channels.

Their approach goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about fan engagement, data ownership, and long-term revenue growth. Every element — from a website design to an eCommerce engine to an online community for fans — is crafted to serve the artist’s broader business goals.

Built to Last — and Built for Artists

With two decades of success behind them, BubbleUp has grown from a boutique shop into a trusted digital partner for both emerging artists and global brands. Their portfolio also includes work for Margaritaville, Yee Yee Apparel, and Healthy Lifestyle Brands, showing that their expertise extends across entertainment and lifestyle verticals.

Music is in BubbleUp’s DNA. Their longevity in a fast-moving industry speaks to their ability to evolve with artists, audiences, and technology itself.

Why the Industry Is Paying Attention Now

In today’s streaming-dominated landscape, artists can’t rely solely on third-party platforms to reach their fans. The smartest artists are reclaiming control — building direct relationships, direct sales, and direct data ownership.

That’s where BubbleUp shines. The agency has become the go-to partner for those who understand that digital success isn’t about a pretty website — it’s about creating a self-sustaining digital business.

Two Decades Behind Music’s Digital Evolution

For 20 years, BubbleUp has been the engine behind some of the biggest names in music — designing, building, and managing their digital platforms that keep artists connected to their fans.

Today, as more artists look to own their audience and monetize their craft on their own terms, the secret is finally getting out.

BubbleUp isn’t just part of the music business — they’re helping rewrite how it works.

Learn more at BubbleUp.com and see the artists they’ve helped elevate — and discover how they can help you build and monetize your digital stage. You can also call them at (713) 201-2945 or email them at mike@bubbleup.net.