Get to know the stations, shows and DJs before reaching out
Pitching your new indie-rock single to an exclusively R’n’B show is a sure fire way to not get airplay as an upcoming artist. So, take the time to research potential radio stations that you can target, their shows and the presenters.
Consider other artists with a similar style of music to you and check out which radio shows are supporting them. You can also check in on your local community stations, most likely they’ll have a show or a segment dedicated to showcasing local talent.
Whilst you’re scanning the net for radio shows to pitch to you’ll also want to consider:
- Does your track have explicit lyrics and does the show allow this?
- Are there any specific features that you can aim for such as a new artist’s spotlight?
- What other content do they offer? Perhaps the website has a blog or the host also invites guests on for artist interviews.
Flex your networking skills and take time to get to know the DJs, presenters and producers that you think could play your music. Whether that’s connecting directly on social media, supporting their official show pages, or even getting to know them in person by attending networking events near you.
If they’re already aware of you, and most importantly find you a nice person with great music, then you’ve got a much better chance of getting picked up.
Extra Tip: Keep a spreadsheet where you can save show links and contact details for any potential contacts in the future. Although a radio may not fit this release, it could work for your next one.
Ensure that you have all of your press assets ready
Radio show hosts and producers receive an overwhelming number of pitches in their inbox each day, so to further your chances of hitting the airwaves you want to make the process of them accessing all of your information seamless.
Use free apps such as Dropbox or Google Drive to share large files so that your email doesn’t go straight into their junk folder or have crazy download times.
- EPK (electronic press kit – this should include a high-quality press shot image )
- MP3 track link
- Press release if it’s a new track
Whilst you research the station and hosts, it’s a good idea to look out for any guidelines on how they like to receive pitches. Some use specific submission platforms, designated promo emails or look for certain file types. If they have outlined exactly how they want submissions to be sent in and you don’t follow it’s unlikely they’ll see it.
Extra Tip: Although it’s not an asset as such, when working on any media campaign it’s a good idea to ensure that your social media channels are in check as the radio team will most likely go here to get more information about you as an artist.
Create a pitch that presents you in the best light
Keep it simple and to the point. Start with a polite introduction to you as an artist and make it clear your reason for getting in touch. Who are you? What do you want from them? And what show or segment are you targeting?
It’s also worth mentioning if you have any upcoming gigs or festival appearances that they may be able to plug on air.
Clearly label your links to your assets and always double check the sharing permissions!
If you are a genuine fan of the show and admire some of their previous work then don’t be afraid to let them know. If you can add some personal touches of your personality to the pitch that again helps you to leave an impression.
Go cray’ for that airplay!
If and when DJs and radio hosts pick up your new music and give it the airplay that it deserves, be sure to hype up the occasion and thank them for supporting your release.
Share the feature on your social media channels and tag the team to show your gratitude. Not only does this promote your song to your following, but it also helps to nurture the relationship that you’ve established with the show by thanking them for supporting your work as an upcoming artist.