1. Get Organized

Before you send a single email, gather your metadata and promo assets. Metadata includes your track title, ISRC, barcode, release date, lyrics, BPM, key, songwriter info, and more. Promo assets include MP3 and WAV files, press photos, album art, and a press page or one-sheet.

Having these items ready (and stored in a spreadsheet or shared folder) ensures you’re never scrambling when someone asks for them.

2. Build Your Own Contact List

Forget about buying email lists. Instead, build your own intentional press list… starting with blogs, curators, and radio stations you know are a good fit. Keep it organized in a spreadsheet, and continually update it after every campaign.

Think of your list both as a press resource and as a personal to-do list for each release.

3. Keep Your Pitch Simple

When it comes time to email, keep it short and clear:

• Greet the person by name

• Share the artist and release date

• Describe the music briefly (or use “for fans of…”)

• Include one streaming link (SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or unlisted YouTube)

Skip attachments. Curators and bloggers receive dozens (sometimes hundreds) of pitches a day. A clean, simple pitch with a playable link is far more likely to be opened.

4. Track Your Progress

Use your spreadsheet to track who you contacted, how they responded, and whether they supported your release.

This record is invaluable for future campaigns—especially when you want to thank supporters or avoid double-pitching.

5. Follow Up (Once)

If you don’t hear back, it doesn’t always mean they hated your music. They may have missed your email. Following up once (with a fresh subject line) can sometimes make the difference.

But don’t overdo it—if they’re not interested, move on and try again with your next release.