Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• PR Campaign Spreadsheet
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• PR Campaign Spreadsheet
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• PR Campaign Spreadsheet
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign
• How To Get Played On Podcasts

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Music Press and Media
• Music Blogs 
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• File-Sharing Sites

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for How To Run A PR Campaign With A Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign
• How To Get Played On Podcasts
• How To Get Your Music Covered On MP3 Blogs

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Work with your street team and fans to discover who they know.

Talk to your fans about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team.

5. Compile a list of all the media you want to target.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". These include media and people you do not know. You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

6. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

7. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

8. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to set up automated alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when your sending your materials to (CDs, mp3s, emails, press releases, etc.). If you don't have your own system or database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for our Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to plan events at least that far in advance in order for the Traditional Media you targeted to have time to review everything. For the New Media, you'll want to contact them slightly before, the day of, or shortly after your event.

11. Contact the Media.

For the Traditional Media, send your PR materials (press releases, CDs, MP3s, videos, etc.) about the event to those on your target list. For New Media, send out your emails. Follow all submission guidelines for both.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with people in the media.

What should I do next?

• How To Run A College Radio Campaign
• How To Get Played On Podcasts
• How To Get Your Music Covered On MP3 Blogs

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: 3 days

Estimated Result Time: 3 months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Compile your broader target PR lists.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

5. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

6. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

7. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to get automatic alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn how to create and manage a street team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for our Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your target list. Send the press release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

12. Use PR wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send "thank you" Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile a list of those in the media you know.

Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know. These people are the most likely places for you to get initial coverage. Once you get some coverage, you can leverage it towards other press and media opportunities. Also, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you read or listen to regularly. They like to hear from their audience and may be natural places to get coverage.

4. Compile your broader target PR lists.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to them and ask.

5. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date with any new information about your event:

• Your bio
• Your fact sheets
• Your online press kit
• Your physical press kit
• Your website (music, videos, etc.)
• Your tour/gig schedule

The media will use these materials to cover you and you'll want to make sure they are up-to-date. 

6. Prepare your PR documents.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. Click here to learn how to create a press release. For New Media, compose a general email that can be used as a template. This template should contain most of the information about the event that you can personalize depending on who you're sending the email to.

7. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying online about your event by setting up automated alerts. Click here to learn how to get automatic alerts. That way, when publicity happens you'll know and you can contact the person to thank them for the coverage (see last step).

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. Click here to learn How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for our Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your target list. Send the press release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

Publicity is just like creating a snowman. You start it out small, and build it up. Each mention you get helps you get more coverage, radio and podcast play, and bigger publications and blog mentions. Below we'll tell you how to run a long-term PR campaign.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

• Traditional Media: print media, magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.).
• New Media: blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times).

Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage. 

3. Compile your target PR lists.

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. Start with the journalists, bloggers, podcasters, etc. that you know or those that you subscribe to. Reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for our Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your target list. Send the press release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists.

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - click here for our Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your target list. Send the press release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email.

Traditional Media usually expects a press release about the event. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists.

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your target list. Send the press release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

Create a successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize.

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A new video?

2. Find your hook.

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media.

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date.

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email.

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Send the Press Release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts.

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists.

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans.

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system.

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting.

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media.

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your targ. 

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage.

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages.

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A charity show?

2. Find your hook

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Send the Press Release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your targ. 

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual
• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A charity show?

2. Find your hook

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Send the Press Release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Music Press and Media
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• Music Blogs 
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• File-Sharing Sites
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

For best results, target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Work with your Street Team and Fans

Keep your fan network up-to-date about the event. Ask for their ideas, whether they know anyone in the Media, and if they can help in other ways to promote your event. For more information on how to effectively motivate and manage your street team, see How To Create And Manage A Street Team. 

9. Set up a tracking system

You'll need to keep track of who, where, and when you sent your CDs, mp3s, and press releases to. If you don't have your own system or  database software, a simple spreadsheet is fine. You can even use ours - Publicity Plan Spreadsheet.

10. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

11. Contact the Media

Finally, it's time to reach out to the media on your targ. 

12. Use PR Wires for extended coverage

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

13. Send Thank You Messages

Make your PR campaign easier the next time around by thanking those people who covered you and your event. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release
• Publicity Plan Spreadsheet

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A charity show?

2. Find your hook

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Send the Press Release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists

You'll want to compile a list of:

• Album Review Press,
• Magazines, Zines, and websites
• Traditional Local and National Press
• New Media Press
• Commercial and Public Radio Stations
• College and Indie Radio Stations
• Cable and Satellite Radio Stations
• Social Playlist Sites
• Internet Radio Stations and Webcasts
• Music Blogs
• Music Podcasts
• Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche
• Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche
• Other websites

If you discover a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may cover your event or music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner and ask.

7. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

7. Start small and build

Target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. For Traditional Media, write a Press Release

9. Use PR Wires

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

10. Send Thank You Messages

If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A charity show?

2. Find your hook

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Prepare your PR documents such as a Press Release and Template Email

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Send the Press Release directly to those journalists on your target list. For New Media, compose a template email that contains most of the information about the event, but which you can customize depending on who you're sending the email to.

6. Set up alerts

Keep up-to-date on what the press, bloggers, and people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and keywords of the event (album title, venue name, song titles, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Compile your target PR lists

There's plenty of outlets within your arm's reach that you can target to get your music reviewed and heard. This is a large topic and we tackle this throughout The Indie Band Survival Guide. But, in short, you'll want to compile a list of: Album Review Press, Magazines, Zines, & websites Traditional Local & National Press New Media Press Commercial, College, and Public Radio Stations internet Radio Stations Music Blogs Music Podcasts Radio Stations Non-Music Blogs Covering Topics in your Niche Non-Music Podcasts Covering Topics in your Niche Other websites If you find a website, blog, radio station, music blog, or podcast that looks like it may play your music but lacks details about submitting your music or details, reach out to blogger, podcaster, or website owner at this stage. Always obey the rules of submission. Making their life more difficult will likely jeopardize them listening/accepting your album or mp3 regardless of how good it is.

7. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

7. Start small and build

Target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. For Traditional Media, write a Press Release

9. Use PR Wires

For extended coverage beyond your targetted Traditional Media list, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

10. Send Thank You Messages

If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Something to publicize (an event, show, or new music)
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Define the event you want to publicize

The event you want publicized must be clear and understandable for the media. Is it a new album? A show? A charity show?

2. Find your hook

Once you know what you want to publicize, find the hook to your story so your event stands out. The media is made up of people -- they want something interesting, unique, new, or fresh.

3. Define your target: Traditional Media and/or New Media

Traditional Media includes print media (magazines, newspapers), radio, and TV. It requires more work and formalities (press releases, longer lead times, etc.). New Media includes blogs, podcasts, vlogs, mp3 blogs, social networks, etc. New Media is relatively informal (emails vs. press releases, shorter lead times). Reach out to both types of media in order to increase your chances for coverage.

4. Get your publicity items ready

Make sure your "music resume" items are up-to-date (Your Bio, Your Fact Sheets, Your Online Press Kit, Your Offline Press Kit, Your Website, Your Tour/Gig Schedule, etc.). These are the items you'll either send out (to the press, bloggers, music reviewers, etc.) or need updated online if they have questions or need more information. 

5. Set up alerts

Keep up-to-date on what people are saying about your event by setting up a Google Alert with you band name and the event (album title, show, venue, etc.). When publicity comes in, contact the reporter, blogger, podcaster, etc. and thank them (see last step).

7. Start small and build

Target those outlets that are "just your size" or "one step up". Publicity builds on itself. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

6. Give appropriate lead time depending on the type of media you're targeting

Traditional Media needs about 3 months of lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. New Media needs only 1-2 weeks notice.

8. For Traditional Media, write a Press Release

Traditional Media usually expect a press release about the event. Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories

9. Use PR Wires

Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

7. Send Thank You Messages

If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Use both new and traditional media

Reach out to both types of press outlets in order to increase your chances for coverage.

2. Stagger your events

Stagger your events so that the media gets a steady stream of news from you. This builds name recognition and can help you get future stories. You need patience as it can take a year of press releases to finally get some coverage.

3. Give appropriate lead time

Traditional media needs about three months lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. For new media, only a week's notice is required.

4. Write Press Releases

Traditional media usually require formal press kits which can take some time to write. Many journalists now prefer email so use that unless you need to mail a CD. Include links to your site and online press kit in the emails. Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories

5. Use PR Wires

Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

6. Start small and build

Start with small outlets in the new and traditional media worlds. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

7. Send Thank You Messages

If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Use both new and traditional media

Reach out to both types of press outlets in order to increase your chances for coverage.

2. Stagger your events

Stagger your events so that the media gets a steady stream of news from you. This builds name recognition and can help you get future stories. You need patience as it can take a year of press releases to finally get some coverage.

3. Give appropriate lead time

Traditional media needs about three months lead time for feature stories. This means you need to be planning events at least that far in advance in order for the media to have time to review everything. For new media, only a week's notice is required.

4. Update your press kit

Look over the contents of your press kit and make sure everything is up to date. Add newer press clippings and shows to your calendar.

5. Write Press Releases

Traditional media usually require formal press kits which can take some time to write. Many journalists now prefer email so use that unless you need to mail a CD. Include links to your site and online press kit in the emails. Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories

6. Use PR Wires

Once your release is finished, use press wires to blast your release to journalists browsing for stories. Many are free to use.

7. Start small and build

Start with small outlets in the new and traditional media worlds. If you already have relationships with journalists, start with them. If you don't know any journalists, reach out to bloggers and podcasters you follow. They like to hear from their audience and may publicize you.

8. Send Thank You Messages

If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Determine Your Goal

Goals wills help you schedule your campaign and figure out which media outlets to target. A few goal examples are: to get your album reviews, to get articles written about your CD release party, or increase the audience numbers for your tour.

2. Prepare a Targeted Press List

 Depending on your goals, you will need to target different press outlets. If you are performing live, contact local newspapers. If your new album is coming out, research music journalists.Form a list of submission contacts at each press outlet that you've chosen.

3. Plan the Timing

Go through your press list and find out how much lead time each contact needs for a story. Some media like magazines require a few months lead time, so send them your CD release date well in advance. If you're targeting new media, you generally need to send them messages only a week in advance.

4. Update your press kit

Look over the contents of your press kit and make sure everything is up to date. Add newer press clippings and shows to your calendar.

5. Write Press Releases

In order to be effective, press releases should be targeted to each media outlet. Learn how to write press releases here.

6. E-mail Press Releases

Most outlets prefer e-mail releases. Many writers inboxes are fileld everyday with releases, so make your subject line stand out as much as possible. Create an expectation that can only be met by reading your email. You should include a link to your online press kit as well as music and video links.

7. Snail-Mail CDs

Only send a release through the mail if you are promoting a CD. Enclose the CD, press release, press kit, and a pitch letter. The pitch letter is a summary of the press release that makes the reader want to learn more.

8. E-mail New Media Close to Deadlines

When your event is approaching remember to send the releases to your new media outlets. You will get better results when you e-mail them a week before the event.

9. Send Follow-Up E-mails and Use Trackback

 Wait about a week and send a follow up e-mail to journalists. If they had previously ignored your release they might take a look the second time around. During the campaign, track your progress by searching for your band name on a search engine or setting up alerts to track your mentions.

10. Send Thank You Messages

 If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• Running Your Own Publicity Campaign
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists, Press Release Writing Services

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Determine Your Goal

Goals wills help you schedule your campaign and figure out which media outlets to target. A few goal examples are: to get your album reviews, to get articles written about your CD release party, or increase the audience numbers for your tour.

2. Prepare a Targeted Press List

 Depending on your goals, you will need to target different press outlets. If you are performing live, contact local newspapers. If your new album is coming out, research music journalists.Form a list of submission contacts at each press outlet that you've chosen.

3. Plan the Timing

Go through your press list and find out how much lead time each contact needs for a story. Some media like magazines require a few months lead time, so send them your CD release date well in advance. If you're targeting new media, you generally need to send them messages only a week in advance.

4. Update your press kit

Look over the contents of your press kit and make sure everything is up to date. Add newer press clippings and shows to your calendar.

5. Write Press Releases

In order to be effective, press releases should be targeted to each media outlet. Learn how to write press releases here.

6. E-mail Press Releases

Most outlets prefer e-mail releases. Many writers inboxes are fileld everyday with releases, so make your subject line stand out as much as possible. Create an expectation that can only be met by reading your email. You should include a link to your online press kit as well as music and video links.

7. Snail-Mail CDs

Only send a release through the mail if you are promoting a CD. Enclose the CD, press release, press kit, and a pitch letter. The pitch letter is a summary of the press release that makes the reader want to learn more.

8. E-mail New Media Close to Deadlines

When your event is approaching remember to send the releases to your new media outlets. You will get better results when you e-mail them a week before the event.

9. Send Follow-Up E-mails and Use Trackback

 Wait about a week and send a follow up e-mail to journalists. If they had previously ignored your release they might take a look the second time around. During the campaign, track your progress by searching for your band name on a search engine or setting up alerts to track your mentions.

10. Send Thank You Messages

 If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Determine Your Goal

Goals wills help you schedule your campaign and figure out which media outlets to target. A few goal examples are: to get your album reviews, to get articles written about your CD release party, or increase the audience numbers for your tour.

2. Prepare a Targeted Press List

 Depending on your goals, you will need to target different press outlets. If you are performing live, contact local newspapers. If your new album is coming out, research music journalists.Form a list of submission contacts at each press outlet that you've chosen.

3. Plan the Timing

Go through your press list and find out how much lead time each contact needs for a story. Some media like magazines require a few months lead time, so send them your CD release date well in advance. If you're targeting new media, you generally need to send them messages only a week in advance.

4. Update your press kit

Look over the contents of your press kit and make sure everything is up to date. Add newer press clippings and shows to your calendar.

5. Write Press Releases

In order to be effective, press releases should be targeted to each media outlet. Learn how to write press releases here.

6. E-mail Press Releases

Most outlets prefer e-mail releases. Many writers inboxes are fileld everyday with releases, so make your subject line stand out as much as possible. Create an expectation that can only be met by reading your email. You should include a link to your online press kit as well as music and video links.

7. Snail-Mail CDs

Only send a release through the mail if you are promoting a CD. Enclose the CD, press release, press kit, and a pitch letter. The pitch letter is a summary of the press release that makes the reader want to learn more.

8. E-mail New Media Close to Deadlines

When your event is approaching remember to send the releases to your new media outlets. You will get better results when you e-mail them a week before the event.

9. Send Follow-Up E-mails and Use Trackback

 Wait about a week and send a follow up e-mail to journalists. If they had previously ignored your release they might take a look the second time around. During the campaign, track your progress by searching for your band name on a search engine or setting up alerts to track your mentions.

10. Send Thank You Messages

 If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure
• PR Lady
• How to Establish a Public Relations Campaign

Result

A successful PR campaign that accomplishes all of your press goals.

Overview

A good PR campaign focuses on two main things: sending out press releases to convince journalists to write about you and making it as easy as possible for them to cover you. Here are the steps to creating a succesful PR campaign from start to finish.

Related Categories: PR Wires, Publicists

Estimated Preparation time: Few days  

Estimated Result Time: A few months

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• An event or music to get publicized
• A press kit
• Strong writing skills

Directions

1. Determine Your Goal

Goals wills help you schedule your campaign and figure out which media outlets to target. A few goal examples are: to get your album reviews, to get articles written about your CD release party, or increase the audience numbers for your tour.

2. Prepare a Targeted Press List

 Depending on your goals, you will need to target different press outlets. If you are performing live, contact local newspapers. If your new album is coming out, research music journalists.Form a list of submission contacts at each press outlet that you've chosen.

3. Plan the Timing

Go through your press list and find out how much lead time each contact needs for a story. Some media like magazines require a few months lead time, so send them your CD release date well in advance. If you're targeting new media, you generally need to send them messages only a week in advance.

4. Update your press kit

Look over the contents of your press kit and make sure everything is up to date. Add newer press clippings and shows to your calendar.

5. Write Press Releases

In order to be effective, press releases should be targeted to each media outlet. Learn how to write press releases here.

6. E-mail Press Releases

Most outlets prefer e-mail releases. Many writers inboxes are fileld everyday with releases, so make your subject line stand out as much as possible. Create an expectation that can only be met by reading your email. You should include a link to your online press kit as well as music and video links.

7. Snail-Mail CDs

Only send a release through the mail if you are promoting a CD. Enclose the CD, press release, press kit, and a pitch letter. The pitch letter is a summary of the press release that makes the reader want to learn more.

8. E-mail New Media Close to Deadlines

When your event is approaching remember to send the releases to your new media outlets. You will get better results when you e-mail them a week before the event.

9. Send Follow-Up E-mails and Use Trackback

 Wait about a week and send a follow up e-mail to journalists. If they had previously ignored your release they might take a look the second time around. During the campaign, track your progress by searching for your band name on a search engine or setting up alerts to track your mentions.

10. Send Thank You Messages

 If your story gets covered it is polite to send a thank you note. Each successful article is the beginning of a relationship with the press that you want to keep. The more you know them personally, the more they will continue to write about you.

What should I do next?

• How To Make a Press Kit for Your Band
• How To Write a Press Release

References

• Ten Tips to Increase National Media Exposure