Having just recovered from our epic Industry Takeover All Dayer 2021, we’re here to keep the information and advice flowing. Need to write a press release? If you’re new to promoting your music or product, read on…
What is a press release?
A press release is what you send to press, radio stations, TV producers and such in the hope of gaining their attention in relation to your new release or drop.
Journalists generally receive too many press releases so when I’m sending out a release, I attach the press release to the email BUT also incorporate key information into the main body of the email.
With the press release, remember you’re basically coming like a sales-person. You need the recipient to engage with what you’re putting forth.
How to write the press release
This is a general template for guidance when it comes to the main body of text;
Get to the point from the off-set…
‘(Artist name) ANNOUNCES DEBUT ALBUM (title)’
Out (date) on (record label).
Underneath the press release headline, include the main image or artwork for the work/ product and credit photographer or designer near the top.
If you have the streaming or viewing link include here;
Stream here (embed link)
Watch here (embed link)
Now we’re into the main text of the press release…
Intro – recap on the subject line; artist x is release x and bring in a bit more flava i.e. what is sounds like, why it’s exciting.
Paragraph 2 – why are we here again? In this example, I want you to hear the new single or watch the video so I’m going to use this paragraph to dry and draw you in. Who produced the single, who made the video, why should someone watch it? Sell it! Why is it exciting?
Paragraph 3 – reminder as to who artist is and why we should care i.e. X has spent 2 years, holed up, working on this release, drawing in an array of producers from x to x. Recap on any career highs/ major achievements or recent news if it’s going to help.
Conclude – bring it back to the beginning again e.g as we await the album release, X is sharpening the live show ready for a tour in 2022.
Include at end of press release (and within body of email):
Social links.
A download link to high-res artwork (high res = 300DPI) if possible (more relevant to print press than online, radio etc).
Who to contact for more info.
Sending the mailer
Your key point needs to be in the subject line e.g. (insert artist name) announces 5-track rock sampling R&B EP!
Work some of the above information from press release into the body of email but keep sentences short.
Test it before you send it & personally target individual recipients as opposed to blanket sending. A more personal approach yields results.
Good luck!
Words: Chantelle Fiddy
Image: ShotByTyler
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