Getting your music out there can be challenging. It takes time and hard work to build a network of contacts, establish a reputation, and create a lasting impression. One way is through music press releases. Music press releases are effective tools for creating awareness about your music, allowing you to reach a broad audience quickly. The following tips show you how to write a killer music press release.
What Is A Press Release?
Musicians and businesses often use press releases to gain “free” publicity for their work. Journalists, editors, and other media professionals can use it for news updates. They can generate buzz around your music and upcoming appearances.
So, let’s dive into how you can create an amazing press release.
Make it Newsworthy
Rule number one! Press releases should only be sent out with a specific reason. Make sure what you’re sending is newsworthy. For music press releases, this means that the release should be tied to a current event, a release date, a tour announcement, or some other newsworthy event that would interest the press and fans.
Stay on Point and Keep It Short
The ideal length of a music press release is one page; two pages max if you have more to say. Be sure to include a catchy headline and the most relevant details. Limit the press release body to the essential facts and avoid unnecessary details. It’s not worth a reporter’s time to read your life’s story.
By creating a music press release template, you can keep it short and sweet. As a result, if a major label, public relations firm, or media outlet finds it, they have all the necessary contact information. This makes it easier for them to reach out and connect. Also, a template can help you to create consistent press releases that are more likely to get noticed.
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Write In The Third Person
It’s tempting to write something in the first person. However, press releases should ALWAYS be in the third person. This is because press releases are supposed to be an objective source of information. Writing in the third person helps give the impression of detachment and impartiality. Additionally, it makes the press release easier to read and understand.
Facts should be presented in an informative manner. This is not a feature article. Journalists can easily interpret the facts and create a feature story if the facts are offered clearly and concisely. Points should be presented in a way that is easy to understand and digest. This will enable journalists to create a compelling feature story quickly and accurately.
Readability
Make sure your music press release is easy to read. Use short sentences and simple words. Break up the text into paragraphs and sections with subheadings. Include white space to make the document easier to navigate.
Make It Visual
Including one key image after your first paragraph is a smart idea, such as an album artwork image or the artist’s photograph. Selecting the right image can significantly impact catching the reader’s attention and helping them understand the content of your press release.
There is no ‘Headline,’ Only a Title
Don’t waste time writing a flashy headline. That’s a journalist’s job. Instead, write a compelling title that accurately reflects the piece’s content. This will give readers an idea of what to expect without reading the entire article. A good title can also help to draw readers in and increase engagement.
Make Your First Paragraph Count
A good introduction paragraph includes all the relevant information. It should also capture the reader’s attention. Make sure your first paragraph is engaging and concise. Additionally, it should lead seamlessly into the text body. Journalists’ rules apply here: ‘who, where, what, when, and why.’
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The Second and Third Paragraphs Are the Sweet Spot.
In your second paragraph, explain more about you, your project, album, tour – whatever you are promoting. Consider using a few quotes from yourself as though a reporter interviewed you.
The Final Paragraph is the Key
Your music press release should conclude with a call to action, such as where your music can be purchased/downloaded, how much, and where they can find more information. Ensure to include contact details in your press release, such as email, phone number, and website, so that journalists can reach out for further details. Lastly, link your social media pages so readers can follow you for updates.
Editor’s Notes
Make sure music press releases include notes specifically for editors, like: “Contact [name] for more info, album artwork, photography, or if you want an interview with the artist.” Make sure you/the artist is reachable.
That’s it! Those were our tips for writing a music press release. Double-check your spelling and grammar before submitting the release. Finally, distribute the music press release to your desired outlets.
Conclusion
Press releases may seem old school, but they’re free to send and still quite effective. Online sources are hungry for relevant content so make sure music-related websites, magazines, and industry insiders make up the bulk of your distribution list. And don’t forget to include Laurelanne.Media! (contact@laurelanne.media)
