Making a proper press kit is essential for any artist. Press kits are created for DJ’s, club bookers and the media. Many artists and bands seem to leave out vital information or lack certain elements that make a good press kit.Today we are talking about the do’s and dont’s in putting together a great looking and professional press kit. Music industry professionals receive a countless amount of press kits daily, and if yours is not up to par or stand out it will be thrown in the garbage.
So what should your press kit have?
The following are the main elements that make a professional press kit:
1.Cover Letter
A cover letter is a piece of paper attached to the front of your press kit. It should be addressed to the proper recipient and attached with a paper clip. The content should be warm and explain what you are looking for from the recipient. Make sure to check all your grammar and be quick and to the point.
2.Your Bio
Your bio is a rough description of your band or yourself. Try not to be too descriptive and keep in mind that whoever is reading your bio does not want to hear a life story. Describe your accomplishments, a quick overview of what makes you different and present a short history of your band.
3.Your Demo Or Finished Product
This is the most important part of your press kit. No matter how great the rest of it is, the truth is in the pudding. If your demo is not up to par then there is no point in even making one. Make sure your demo contains no intro and keep in mind that first impressions are everything. Put your best three songs and make sure the recording quality is professional. It is better to put out the money and get your song professionally recorded and mixed. Many industry professionals want to hear a finished product and have no time to deal with amateurs. If you’re serious about your craft, make sure you invest in yourself, after all, if you don’t then what makes you think someone else will?
4.Photos
Make sure you have a proper photo. Many bands make the mistake of taking a low quality picture and attaching it to their press kit. Your photo should make an impact and look professional. It should show what your music is about and what you stand for. Be creative and make sure that your photo highlights your true looks. Unfortunately in today’s music industry image is important. Make sure you stand out from the crowd and be true to yourself.
5.Press Clippings
Add any media or press clippings from past shows or events. It is important to add your past work history. DJ’s, club promoters and the media love to be a part of something that is growing and shows potential.
What NOT to do on your press kit:
1.Improper Grammar
Grammar is very important in any instance. Make sure once your press kit is completely finished, you proof read and spell check.
2.Too Much Information
Adding too much information to your press kit will deter your recipient. You have to understand that these music industry people receive countless amounts of media kits daily. You have to be concise and to the point! Make sure you cover all the major points and accomplishments, and don’t over exaggerate or lie.
3.No Prior Contact
Make sure you do not address your press kit “To whom it may concern”. Most companies will never look at unsolicited material. Make sure you reach out to the industry professional prior to you sending them the material. A simple email or phone call can go a long way! If you don’t have the contacts, there are tons of music industry lists available out there. We at StayOnBeat.com also offer a music industry contact list to help you get connected!
In closing, making a proper press kit is an essential part of getting gigs and possibly getting signed to a major label. Make sure you are honest and that your demo is up to par with todays top artists. Always remember “quality of quantity”!
If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact us or leave a reply.
Author: Rudy Vibes
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