here are some more tips from biggrome at FP:
Getting Airplay
There are many thoughts on how one gets airplay. The best advice I have is to make a really good record. However, sometimes that isn't enough. Here are a few suggestions on how to get your music heard on the radio.
THE PACKAGE:
First you must prepare a package to submit to radio stations. Here is a list of what should be inside (I assume you know to put a return address on the outside).
The CD or Record
The finished product with full artwork is always best. However, if this isn't possible, clearly display the song list, album title and record label info. Don't send tape cassettes.
The One Sheet
The "One Sheet" is designed to outline what you're sending and why it should be listened to. Limit it to one page; multiple pages create desk clutter and most likely won't be read. Avoid cramming the "One Sheet" with too much but do include the essential information below:
1. A song list
2. A list of any songs the FCC wouldn't like, such as those with obscene language.
3. "Go To" tracks (3-5 of your strongest)
4. A few press quotes if you have them. Don't try to be funny; assume that music directors don't have a sense of humor.
5. A comparison to other bands but make sure they apply (not everyone sounds like Radiohead). You could also include the "genre" of your music.
6. Avoid too much clutter; get to the point and let the music speak to that point.
Unwrap the CD and fold the one sheet inside the CD case. Don't ask music directors (MD) to contact you, assume that you must contact them. Most MDs don't have time to return calls. Call them during their office hours and continue to do so until you reach them.
Other Promotional Items
Send other promotional items that will help your chances…but use judgment. Don't toss in things that spoil or appear unprofessional. I once received a package with a hotdog in it. I happened to be on vacation at the time and when I returned the package smelled so bad I threw it out…CD and all. Plus, what does a hotdog have to do with getting airplay? MP3's and the like are also a bad idea. Most MDs won't take the time to download your music. Make it easy for them, not for yourself.
what to send | who to send it to | what to do next | national promotion | closing
WHAT TO DO NEXT?
Research, research, research. Use the Internet to identify appropriate stations. If they play twang then sending your new rap release is a big waste of time. You can usually find a "play list" or "rotation" section on station websites. Does your music fit? Send your package to the station's music director. If the station has multiple MDs then send the CD to the main MD and to any other MDs that might play it. If there is just one MD then send him or her at least one copy of your CD. If you send your package to a station in your hometown, send it to the local show. This is your best chance at airplay as they are usually in need of new music.
what to send | who to send it to | what to do next | national promotion | closing
OKAY I'VE SENT IT, NOW WHAT DO I DO?
Follow UP
DO NOT assume that just because you've sent your package your CD is being played. Wait at least 2 weeks after you've sent it before you follow up with a phone call. Most music directors have call hours a couple of days each week. You can usually find these hours listed on a station's website or you can call them to find out when they are.
Patience and politeness
Keep trying and once you get through remain polite and to the point. Ask the following questions. If any of the answers are "No," stop asking and politely tell them to have a nice day.
1. Did you receive so and so CD on so and so records?.
2. Were you able to review so and so?
3. Are you going to add so and so to your rotation?
4. Where are you going to add so and so to your rotation?
5. Is there anything else you need?
Most stations have a "Heavy, Medium, and Light" rotation system. If you're put into any of these its good news: you're getting airplay. At this point thank the music director and let them know you'll be calling back later to see how the record is being received and where it is charting. Continue to follow-up for 6-8 weeks, the life of a new release in rotation. Or, if you like, keep an eye on the station website's play list.
Requests
Inform your supporters what station is playing your CD; however, make sure that they don't overload the station with requests or turn bitter towards the station because your music is not being aired enough. DJ's can tell when a band's supporters are overloading them with requests and this will not win you friends or more airplay. Most stations will play music based on merit and not on requests.
what to send | who to send it to | what to do next | national promotion | closing
NATIONAL PROMOTION
There are several top-notch radio promotion companies that specialize in helping musicians get radio airplay around the country. They generally service 300 to 750 stations for a fee of $500 to thousands of dollars. Promotional mailings to radio stations will cost you money for both postage and lost CD's. Usually you handle the mailings while they track your release by calling the MD each week and find out where in rotation it is and how many plays it is getting a week.
Most companies service your CD for 6 to 8 weeks and can assist with setting up in-studio visits and giveaways. Most will recommend the type of stations to target. Here are a few of these companies:
Planetary Group,
www.planetarygroup.com
Spectre,
www.spectreradio.com
Mcgathy,
www.mcgathypromotions.com
Revolver,
www.midheaven.com
AAM,
www.aampromo.com
Fanatic,
www.fanaticpromotion.com
Team Clermont,
www.teamclermont.com
Nice Promotions,
www.nicepromo.com
Pirate! Promotion and Management,
www.piratepirate.com
what to send | who to send it to | what to do next | national promotion | closing
IN CLOSING
It's not easy to do it yourself: write the music, book gigs, manage the tour, release the CD, and get radio airplay. But once you connect with the right listeners for your music, there are definitely rewards. I hope you now have a better idea of how to approach a radio station and get airplay for your new CD. Good luck!
John Richards
The Morning Show FM 6-10am Mon-Fri
I hope no-one on this BBS is stupid enough to do that!