As an independent artist, getting your music played on the radio can be a challenge. However, with the rise of independent radio stations and online radio platforms, there are now more opportunities than ever to get your music heard. In this blog post, we'll explore five tips for independent radio playlisting that can help you increase your chances of getting airplay.
1. Do your research
Before submitting your music to a radio station, it's important to do your research. Make sure the station's format fits your style of music, and take note of the types of artists and songs that are already being played. This will give you an idea of whether your music is a good fit for the station and will help you tailor your submission accordingly.
2. Build relationships
Building relationships with radio DJs and program directors can be a key factor in getting your music played. Take the time to get to know the people who make the decisions about what gets played on the station. Follow them on social media, attend their events, and engage with them in a respectful and professional manner.
3. Submit high-quality music
This may seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing: make sure your music is of high quality before submitting it for radio play. This includes both the production value of the recording itself as well as the songwriting and performance. If your music sounds amateurish or unpolished, it's unlikely to get played on the radio.
4. Provide supporting materials
When submitting your music for playlist consideration, it's a good idea to provide supporting materials that help tell your story. This could include a bio, press photos, and links to your website and social media profiles. The more information you provide, the easier it is for the radio station to get a sense of who you are as an artist and whether your music is a good fit for their audience.
5. Be persistent but respectful
Finally, it's important to be persistent in your efforts to get your music played on the radio, but to do so in a respectful and professional manner. Follow up on your submissions, but don't be pushy or aggressive. Remember that radio stations receive a lot of submissions and have limited airtime, so it may take time for your music to get played. Stay positive and keep working on building your career as an independent artist.
In conclusion, getting your music played on the radio as an independent artist can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By doing your research, building relationships, submitting high-quality music, providing supporting materials, and being persistent and respectful, you can increase your chances of getting airplay and reaching a wider audience.
Until next time,
Skill