Getting press as a musician

Getting press as an independent artist is an important way to get your music out there. And while it may seem intimidating, promoting yourself to blogs, magazines, and other media can actually be pretty straightforward—and even fun. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to go about it.

Why Press is Worth Your Time and Effort

Press coverage may have evolved, but it’s still a powerful way to get your music out there! Here are just a few of the benefits:

• It’s free: You don’t need a big budget.
• You control the process: Reaching out on your own gives you direct connections with the media covering your genre.
• Relationship building: This process helps you meet people in the industry who may become long-term supporters.
• Audience growth: Each piece of coverage gives you access to new listeners, fans, and followers.

Step 1: Create Your EPK (Electronic Press Kit)

Your EPK is your go-to toolkit for pitching yourself. Here are the essentials:

• High-quality photos: Aim for 3-7 images, both landscape and portrait. Upload them to a Google Drive or Dropbox folder to make sharing easy. Never send attachments.
• Music links: If your release isn’t public yet, use private links on Google Drive, Dropbox, Bandcamp, or SoundCloud. Again, avoid sending attachments
• Press release: Your official statement announcing important news, such as the release of new music, upcoming performances, or other notable events - we’re trying to capture the attention of media outlets and generate coverage 

Here’s what goes into a press release:

1. Header: Think of this like a headline—something short but catchy that sums up the announcement. You can include a sub-header if you have one.
2. Main section: What makes your release unique? Why you’re excited about it? Include any interesting details (where or how it was recorded, special collaborations, etc.).
3. Bio: Keep it concise, engaging, and focused on your unique sound and story. If you’re stuck, get feedback from a friend or hire a professional writer to polish it.
4. Quotes: If you’ve had past press coverage, add a short quote. If not, you can write one yourself to give journalists a quick sense of your perspective.
5. Contact info and social links: Include your email, social media links, and any notable stats (follower counts, streams, notable venues or festivals played etc.).

Step 2: Build a List of Contacts

Once your EPK is ready, it’s time to find people to send it to.

• Identify similar artists: Make a list of other artists in your genre who are releasing music, getting reviews, or being interviewed.
• Look up their press: Find out where these artists are getting covered. This can point you toward blogs, magazines, podcasts, and influencers who may be interested in your music.
• Think outside the box: Don’t limit yourself to traditional music sites. Does your music address a certain topic or issue that might have a different audience?
• Track your contacts: Use a simple spreadsheet to keep track of names, emails, publication links, and notes. This will be your go-to database for future press campaigns too.

Step 3: Reach Out

Now that you’ve got your list of contacts, it’s time to reach out.

• Write a personal email: Avoid mass emailing. A short, friendly email is more effective. Include a brief intro, links to your music and photo folder and paste your press release in the email body. Here’s an example:
  “Hi [Contact’s Name], I’m [Your Name], and I create music as [Artist Name]. I love your blog and especially enjoyed your review of [Similar Artist’s Name]. My music has a similar vibe, and I’d love for you to check out my new record. Thanks so much for considering it!”
• Keep track of responses: Note in your spreadsheet who’s responded and who may need a follow-up email in a couple of weeks.

Step 4: Follow Up & Make the Most of Your Press

• Celebrate every piece of press: Share press coverage on your socials, tagging the writer and publication to show appreciation. Engaging with the media that covers you strengthens those relationships and can lead to future coverage.
• Press as validation: Each new mention in the media gives your work a bit of credibility. Even if a blog post doesn’t lead to a huge bump in followers, it’s still valuable and is something you can share to show momentum.

Step 5: Keep Networking

Getting press isn’t a one-time event. Building a network of media contacts is an ongoing process. Here are a few tips:

• Stay consistent: Keep reaching out and engaging with media outlets over time.
• Be authentic: Relationships in this industry are often long-term. Being genuine and appreciative goes a long way.
• Enjoy the journey: Getting press takes persistence, but over time, you’ll see results and grow your audience in an organic way.

Building a press network takes time, but it’s worth every step. With each connection, you’re putting your music in front of new fans and shaping your career for the long haul.