How to Create a

Press One Sheet

How to Create a Professional Press One Sheet to Promote Your Indie Label’s Releases Effectively

A well-crafted one sheet isn’t just for the press—it’s a powerful tool to keep your entire release campaign organized and professional.

Want to get your music in front of the right people? A press one sheet is a simple but essential tool for indie record labels and artists to promote new releases.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to include, why it’s still relevant, and how to create one in minutes—with free templates to get you started!

What is a Press One Sheet?

A press one sheet is a concise, one-page document that provides all the essential information about a new music release. It acts as a promotional tool for record labels, indie artists, and managers to share with music journalists, bloggers, radio stations, and industry professionals.

The name "one sheet" is literal—it’s designed to be a single page because no one has time to read more than that. The challenge is to condense key promotional details into an easy-to-digest format.

Why is a Press One Sheet Useful?

While traditional music PR methods continue to evolve, the press one sheet remains a valuable tool for several reasons:

  • Consolidates Key Information – It puts all the essential details about a release in one place.

  • Enhances Professionalism – Consistently sending well-designed press one sheets makes a label look organized and serious.

  • Serves as a Reference – Both artists and industry professionals can refer back to it throughout a release campaign.

  • Easy to Distribute – A PDF, webpage, or digital graphic is simple to share via email or social media.

  • Flexible Use Cases – One sheets aren’t just for album releases; they can be used for artist bios, tour promotions, or special projects like podcasts or compilations.

Who Should Receive a Press One Sheet?

Send your press one sheet to anyone who might help promote your release, including:

  • Music journalists and bloggers

  • Playlist curators and radio DJs

  • Podcasters and interviewers

  • Promoters and booking agents

  • Influencers and music critics

  • Publicists and record store owners

What Format Should You Use?

The most common format for a press one sheet is a PDF.

However, you can also create:

  • A Canva or Photoshop-designed PDF – Professional and visually appealing.

  • A webpage (e.g., yourlabel.com/artist-albumname) – Easy to update and share.

  • A simple Google Doc or Google Sheet – Less stylish but functional and shareable.

  • A print version – Useful for press kits, vinyl promos, or in-person meetings.

What to Include in a Press One Sheet

A well-crafted one sheet should include:

1. Artist & Album Information

  • Artist Name

  • Album Title

  • Release Date

  • Genre

  • "For Fans Of" (e.g., If you like Bon Iver, you’ll love this)

  • Track Listing (optional but helpful)

2. Visuals

  • Album Cover – A high-resolution image of the album artwork.

  • Press Photo – A professional, high-quality image of the artist.

  • Record Label Logo – Adds branding and professionalism.

3. Bio & Accolades

  • A short bio or description of the release (not necessarily of the artist).

  • Press quotes or notable achievements (if available).

  • Any previous accolades (e.g., past chart rankings, major placements, festival performances).

4. Retail & Streaming Information

  • Catalog Number & Barcode (if applicable).

  • Where the release will be available (Spotify, Bandcamp, Apple Music, Vinyl, CD, etc.).

  • Private streaming/download links for reviewers (SoundCloud, Bandcamp private link, NOT Dropbox or Google Drive files).

5. Contact & Social Links

  • Artist Website & Social Media Links

  • Record Label Contact Info (email, phone, website)

Digital vs. Print Versions

While print one sheets are less common today, they can still be useful when sending vinyl to DJs, radio stations, or key industry figures. If you opt for print, make sure your digital version is also optimized with active links.

How to Create a Press One Sheet

Step 1: Choose Your Format

  • Use Canva, Photoshop, or InDesign for a visually appealing layout.

  • If you prefer a simple, text-based approach, use Google Docs or Microsoft Word.

  • For a web-based version, create a page on your label’s website that can be easily updated.

Step 2: Use a Template

To make things easier, you can use the free Press One Sheet Template we’re providing in this article. (Insert download link here.)

Step 3: Customize with Your Release Info

Update the template with:

  • Your artist’s name, album details, and release info.

  • A brief but engaging bio.

  • Links to streaming platforms.

  • Eye-catching visuals like album art and artist photos.

Step 4: Export as a PDF

Once your one sheet is ready, export it as a PDF with active hyperlinks so recipients can quickly access streaming links, social media, and press contacts.

Step 5: Distribute Effectively

Email Best Practices:

  • Attach the PDF or link to a webpage version.

  • Keep your email concise and engaging.

  • Include a private streaming link in the email body.

  • Subject Line Example: New Jazz/Folk Album from Scott Orr – Out June 25

  • Email Example:

    • Hello [Name],

      I hope this finds you well! YOU here from LABEL NAME. I wanted to share our upcoming release: [Album Name] by [Artist Name], out June 25th on digital and 180g clear vinyl.

      Here’s the press page: [Insert Link] Here’s the private stream: [Insert Link]

      Let me know if you’d like additional info or interview opportunities.

      Thanks for your time!

      Best, [Your Name]

Bonus Tips for Success

  1. Include Critical Info in the Email Body – Many journalists won’t open attachments, so make sure the key release details and streaming links are in the email itself.

  2. Use an Engaging Subject Line – The subject line should be clear, descriptive, and enticing.

  3. Make It Easy to Listen – Avoid sending MP3s or large file downloads. Instead, provide private SoundCloud or Bandcamp links.

  4. Be Creative – While our template is simple and effective, you can add personality and branding to make your one sheet stand out.

  5. Keep it Updated – If sending a digital webpage version, update it regularly with new press quotes or accolades.

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