Radio promotion is the perfect way to spread your music. Commercial radio allows you to launch your music to a large audience.
To get airtime on radio is challenging. Especially, if you aren’t backed by a major label, publicist or a radio promoter. However, nothing is impossible. With a realistic radio campaign and a persistent attitude, you can get noticed by leading commercial radio stations.
Below are 5 ways to get your music played on commercial radio:
1) Establish a noticeable presence on non-commercial radio stations
Independent artists can easily get airplay on non-commercial radio. This includes college radio, community radio and internet radio. In addition, you can also approach commercial radio stations with special programs that air local and independent music.
College and community radio stations are usually responsive to emerging independent artists. Some non-comm radio stations are also extremely popular and have a considerable fan following. Therefore, establish your popularity with non-comm stations to get noticed by commercial radio.
In essence, gradually move up the radio ladder. Start with non-commercial radio. Then, move on to small and medium commercial stations. Finally, you are ready to land a spot on leading commercial radio channels.
2) Work on progressing your music career
To get noticed by commercial radio giants you need to exhibit that your music career is progressing. Essentially because, commercial radio only airs music that can improve a station’s ratings. Thus, you need to be able to convince stations that you are a worthy rating risk.
In essence, you need to prove your popularity to commercial radio stations. Go on tours to establish your brand. Build your online presence and secure local media coverage for live performances. In addition, focus on increasing your music sales. Do this and radio stations will definitely notice you.
3) Get contact details of DJs, hosts, music directors and program directors of radio stations you are targeting
Get in touch with more than one person in every radio station. For instance, reach out to DJs, hosts, music directors and program directors from each channel. The goal is to get at least one person from the radio station to notice your music submission. This way, your music will get passed on to other members for approval.
4) Distribute your music along with press releases or one sheets to radio stations
Look up the music submission guidelines for each radio station. Accordingly, send your music electronically or via digital formats such as CDs. Further, provide a link to your music if a radio station accepts electronic submissions. Contact the station directly if you don’t find any essential information.
Send out vital information about your song in a press release or a one sheet. Include a short bio about yourself and the kind of music you produce. In addition, provide essential contact details, band/artist website and links to all social media accounts.
5) Follow up after you have made a submission
Follow up with the radio station few weeks after submitting your music. Phone-in or send an email to enquire if a station is adding your song to their playlist. If they respond positively, then send a formal email thanking them. If a station is unwilling to feature your song, send a polite email asking why. Do not argue with the radio station if they reject your music. Instead, make your radio campaign more effective and result-oriented.
Approach stations that are more responsive to independent music if you are new to radio promotion. In addition, formulate a radio campaign that is realistic and achievable. The goal is to move up the radio ladder gradually, to achieve success. Follow the above tips to get your music played on commercial radio.
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Manasa Boggaram is a writer and has a strong passion for music, positive news and constructive journalism. When she is not researching story ideas or writing blog posts, she spends her time reading books, discovering new music and eating lots of street food.
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