Here's your idea in a different metaphor: How many die hard fans does it take for a musical band to exist; for the business machine to be self sustaining by die

Here's your idea in a different metaphor: How many die hard fans does it take for a musical band to exist; for the business machine to be self sustaining by die hard fans that will consume your material when released? There are lots of bands that have exited the mainstage of public notoriety that are still thriving in various ends.