Sometimes, new-kids also float wrong data to create hype and get initial users. So, I will take what others are saying with a grain of salt. What you should - as you are - focus on getting initial set of users. There are a lot of ways you can go about this:
1) Getting published in a leading online magazine a day before launch
2) Running highly targeted awareness focused FB & Insta ads a week before launching and then switching to use focused ads.
3) Display ads can also give a big reach
If you could share your Insta or FB page, I could share more. Let's schedule a call for more insights. For long term brand building, read this blog, https://www.upreports.com/blog/build-brand-identity-online-100-tips-ideas/