The contacts listed are sorted into FIVE sections:
1. Publications, Review Websites and Music Blogs that will REVIEW your music
2. Radio Stations, Shows and Podcasts that will PLAY your songs
3. Labels, Vendors, Distributors and Promotional Services that will help you to SELL your CD
4. Websites where you can UPLOAD your band's MP3s or videos
5. Helpful Resources for recording artists
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SECTION ONE: SITES/PUBLICATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR MUSIC REVIEWED
Making a Scene
5765 Lake Windsor Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518
Richard L'Hommedieu
publisher@makingascene.org
www.makingascene.org
Independent musicians guide to the music business, CD reviews artist interviews, recording techniques, music business articles, interviews with Music Business professionals, show reviews and much more. Genres we feature are Hip Hop/Rap, Dance/Electronic, Soul/R&B/Funk, Acoustic, Folk, Roots, Singer/Songwriter, Country/Bluegrass, Americana/Alt-Country, Blues, World Music, Jamband, Jazz, Latin, Reggae/Ska, Pop, Rock/Indie, Alternative, Industrial/Goth, Prog Rock, Experimental, Cajun/Zydeco, Hard Rock, Metal and Punk.
CHARGED.fm
PH: 337-962-5172
Luke Thomas
luke@charged.fm
www.charged.fm
We're a live entertainment, promotion and ticketing company in Brooklyn, NY. We also have an online magazine and do band reviews, in-studio sessions and offer free tools to artists and promoters that allow them to create events, sell tickets and promote through social media.
Skope Magazine
PH: 339-293-7957
Michael Friedman
mfriedman@skopemagazine.com
www.skopemag.com
Covers and engages an audience of music enthusiasts with diverse music coverage for the digital age.
MusicBoxPete
musicboxpete@gmail.com
www.musicboxpete.com
Each Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, I present to you a feature on an emerging artist and why you should know about them. I present to you the highlights of each artist and tell you who the band is, why they're awesome, and where you can hear their music. Each Wednesday, I present a featured album review of either a nationally recognized artist or an indie band and offer up my critique of the album and present the album strengths and/or weaknesses. Sporadically through the week, I'll present breaking music news as it happens and give you all the facts you need to know about this story and how it affects you. Any submissions received through Facebook message or Twitter DM will be automatically ignored. Submissions must include a link to where I can listen to your music. (Bandcamp, Soundcloud etc.) Song attachments must be in MP3 format only and album submissions must be in a compressed .zip folder.
SECTION TWO: RADIO STATIONS, SHOWS AND PROMOTERS
2.1 RADIO - STATIONS AND SHOWS
LIVE from the Midnight Circus
5765 Lake Windsor Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518
Richard L'Hommedieu
radio@mid-nightcircus.com
www.facebook.com/LiveAtTheMidnightCircus
Supporting touring Blues artists with interviews and features. Interviews are podcast on www.makingascene.org as featured artist interviews. The genres we feature are Blues, Bluesrock and Soul. Reports to RMR for charting.
The Mr.R Show
PH: 702-416-7699
Mr.R
mrrshow@yahoo.com
www.hiphopliveradio.com
I play the hottest independent Hip Hop and R&B every Monday-Friday from 12pm-2pm-PST.
The Curvy Metalhead Show
BlasianQuita
curvymetal@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/curvymetal
A weekly online radio program on Faces of Success Radio that focuses on covering Alternative, Hard Rock, and Heavy Metal from a multicultural point of view. From Christian Metal to some good Hard Rock we have got you covered. On the program, I also cover news, album reviews and interviews that demonstrate that it takes more than talent to be successful. If you would like your music to be played on the show please send me your latest single in high-quality MP3 format along with band or solo artist information. I also accept CDs for review and airplay.
Left of Center - WVLP
256 W. Indiana Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383
PH: 219-476-9000
Robert Rolfe Feddersen
bobfeddersen@yahoo.com
www.robertrolfefeddersen.com
A live weekly radio show that starts at 7:00 p.m. CST. Featuring Folk, Americana and Singer/Songwriter music and live acoustic performances from artists you may not have heard of.
Metal Master Kingdom
Ingrid Newton
management@metalmasterkingdom.com
www.metalmasterkingdom.com
A webzine based in Ontario, Canada with a number of journalists and contributors throughout North America. We are seeking more connections in Europe, South America and around the globe. Our mission is to deliver the best quality reviews, interviews, band news, vids, tunes, and promos! Let us help your band get the attention and focus you deserve!
Amsterdam Recording Company
PO Box 2731, 1000 CS Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Nicholas van den Doel
nicholas@amsterdamrecordingcompany.com
www.amsterdamrecordingcompany.com
We are a record label, radio show & recording studio based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Our radio show consists of a live set by a touring band. Bands are welcome to contact us for consideration for one of these radio sessions. The recordings take place in our recording studio and are broadcast at a later date. Please contact us by e-mail before sending any materials through the post. We accept all genres. Our preferred are Alternative, Indie Rock, Jazz, Electronic, Hip Hop, Soul, Singer/Songwriter, Punk and Hardcore.
WEMF Radio
submissions@wemfradio.com
www.wemfradio.com
A brand new LIVE online radio station, bringing you new music and the best personalities in Boston.
Rize FM
submissions@rize.fm
www.rize.fm
All EDM, all the time! Send us your original songs, demos and DJ mixes.
Atlanta Blues Society BLUESCAST
5765 Lake Windsor Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518
Richard L'Hommedieu
radio@atlantabluessociety.org
www.atlantabluessociety.org
Supporting touring Blues artists and artists touring through the Atlanta area, "Honoring the Past while supporting the Future of the Blues". The genres we feature are Blues, Bluesrock and Soul. Reports to RMR for charting.
Hip Hop Live Radio
2120 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203
PH: 205-224-5705
hhlartist@gmail.com
www.hiphopliveradio.com
Internet station bringing you Hip Hop & RnB. Send you music in MP3 format to our e-mail address (quality must be at least 192K bps).
The Real Radio Show
2611 Merrick Rd. #953, Bellmore, NY 11710
PH: 516 306-4188
therealradioshow.com@gmail.com
www.TheRealRadioShow.com
An unscripted high energy show with celebrities and indie acts from around the world. An entertainment show like no other; loosely connected by the Bizarre humor provided by the cast.
HotMix106.com
Cory Marcus
coryhotmix@gmail.com
www.hotmix106.com
Born out of a pioneering spirit and a passion for music we have developed HotMix106.com radio in Sacramento, CA, to bring you the best FREE music on this big beautiful planet we call Earth. Talent, passion and integrity is what we stand for. We air Rock, Blues, Pop, Soul, Jazz & what ever else we feel like.
Nashville Side Streets
PH: 615-859-5523
Ronnie Dean
ronniedean61@comcast.net
www.nashvillesidestreets.com
A new live internet music show, is broadcast in full HD from the front room of a house, turned state-of-the-art studio, near Nashville, TN. This live show is to exploit the musical talent that is hidden on the streets of Nashville and beyond, for a worldwide audience to view, and to let everyone know that there is still good music "JUST WAITING TO BE SEEN AND HEARD." The set is designed for both the comfort of home and the audio visual quality of a professional facility. Anyone who would like to appear on the show may audition by sending a simple 1 minute cell phone video of themselves and their music.
IPO Radio
submissions@iporadio.com
www.iporadio.com
Internet radio station featuring Hip Hop, Electronic, Rock and Metal. We will ONLY accept attached MP3 files. Please do NOT send download links. ALL MP3 Files Must have the proper TAGS or we will not be able to play them. This service is 100% FREE!! We do not charge anything for this. All we ask is to help spread the word and become friends with us on our Facebook page. If an artist is selected for IPO Radio Rotation you will be contacted within 2 weeks. Usually sooner depending on the amount of submission we are working with at the time of submission.
Fuego Beats Radio
info@fuegobeats.com
www.fuegobeats.com
Broadcasts a distinctive blend of talk radio interviews with a mix of Hip Hop, Pop and R&B music from emerging musicians. Topics range from celebrity gossip to controversial issues relevant to a modern society, as well as pop culture. Submit your music via our ONLINE FORM. Send us an e-mail if you would like to be considered for an interview. @WFBS981
New Driven Radio
Sherry Sabine
NewDriven@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/NewDrivenRadio
The NEW DRIVEN shows bring the hottest professional level independent rock to syndicated radio. Our weekly shows feature the best in emerging Soft Rock, Hard Rock, Alt Rock, Pop, Acoustic, Folk Rock, Punk & Melodic Metal. NEW DRIVEN also produces a weekly talk show that focuses on professional independent artists and a live show with call-in interviews and guest co-hosts. Artists on our shows are full-time musicians, (or nearing that step) with a rigorous touring schedule We spin newer release original music. @NewDriven
2.2 RADIO PROMOTERS
"Makin' It Happen" Radio Promotions
PO Box 46762, Kansas City, MO 64188
PH: 816-343-8404
makinithappen@dreaminoutloudent.com
makinithappenradiopromotions.jigsy.com
A radio promotions company servicing all Christian and Gospel music genres. Submitted songs must be "Radio Ready" (ie... professionally mixed & mastered). Also all Contemporary Christian and Gospel songs submitted will receive airplay on KBAT Christian Radio and the TEAM Gospel Weekend Radio Program.
CIMG, LLC
119 Bowling Ave. Nashville, TN 37205-2357
Tony Bates
contact@cimgllc.com
www.cimgllc.com
Our Radio Promotion work focuses on relevant radio stations (terrestrial and online), especially college radio stations, in the U.S., Canada and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Our staff works daily to build relationships with radio stations, regional promoters, music/entertainment publications and websites, and media outlets throughout North America as well as in eastern and central Europe. We work mostly with Rock, Pop-Rock, Americana and Alt-Country artists. facebook.com/cimgllc
Howard Rosen Promotion
521 W. Channel Islands Blvd. #15, Port Hueneme, CA 93041
PH: 805-382-2200 FX: 805-201-7816
info@howiewood.com
www.howiewood.com
Since 1985 We have been helping artists reach their goals of obtaining radio airplay, expanding their fan base, and creating awareness throughout the industry. @Howiewoodpromo
SECTION THREE: SERVICES/VENDORS/LABELS THAT WILL HELP SELL YOUR MUSIC
3.1 SERVICES - PROMOTION/PUBLICITY
Quite Great Music Publicity
PH: 01223-844440
Pete Bassett
pete@quitegreat.co.uk
www.quitegreatmusicpruk.com
UK Based radio promotions and marketing services. From Indie bands to Classic Rock and from Classical to Pop. Although our history is firmly based in music promotion and national music publicity we have now extended our company to incorporate virtually every PR and marketing service a band, artist or related business might require. We are one of the leading music public relations companies in the UK. We have adapted into a music PR and media promotions company. We span all band and brand requirements, specialising in music promotion for Rock, Metal, Folk, Pop, Classical and Indie.
Rock 'n Retail
PH: 818-453-8777
Gale Rosenberg
WebNRetail@cs.com
www.musicmarketingbywebnretail.com
We have marketed over 250 music releases, books, jewelry and other physical products at retail. Rock 'n Retail provides clients with muscle by exploiting all opportunities in the retail market as well as methods to drive traffic to buy a given product. We offer music marketing and sales to physical locations, in-store event set up, pop-up event set-up & promotions, media buying, traditional PR, music licensing submissions, audio & video lifestyle submissions (locations such as Walmart, Restaurants, Sports Venues, DJ Pools, Clubs etc.), quarterbacking of label team professionals. Our clients include record labels, distributors, product manufacturers, ecommerce and websites. Our projects have included Bush, No Doubt, BRMC and Chris LeDoux.
Web 'n Retail
PH: 818-453-8777
Gale Rosenberg
WebNRetail@cs.com
www.musicmarketingbywebnretail.com
The online music marketing and social media marketing division of Rock 'n Retail. Web 'n Retail mirrors the strength and programs that Rock 'n Retail built for traditional retail to drive traffic to retail but specifically in the virtual world. Web 'n Retail offers viral music marketing & PR including: blog postings, video postings, press postings, social media marketing and management, app marketing, viral press, press eblasts, SEO, video production, website/landing pages/eblast creation & management, quarterbacking of label team professionals. Our projects have included Bush, No Doubt, BRMC and Chris LeDoux.
Virool
88 Kearny St. 21st Fl. San Francisco, CA 94108
PH: 415-403-2260
www.virool.com
We promote your YouTube videos to a targeted audience. We'll help you to get your music video to the right audience to get more views and fans. We guarantee full transparency and detailed analytics. All views are real with at least 30 seconds of engagement.
DigitalPromo.info
Hubertusstr. 65, 47798 Krefeld, Germany
O.M.Heckens
omh@digitalpromo.info
www.digitalpromo.info
A fresh and innovative Dance Music promotional service. We'll help you to connect with new fans via airplay on radio, clubs and events. Your music will be reviewed by the DJs and radio hosts and will be placed on our intern promotion charts.
CIMG, LLC
119 Bowling Ave. Nashville, TN 37205-2357
Tony Bates
contact@cimgllc.com
www.cimgllc.com
We provide Social Media Marketing and Social Commerce Solutions for our clients, in addition to Artist Management and Record Label Services. We work with artists, record labels, agencies, events, and brands of all kinds that want to effectively engage their supporters and fans via social media. Considering the global marketplace and international appeal, we offer our services in several languages as well, when appropriate to meet your goals. We work mostly with Rock, Pop-Rock, Americana and Alt-Country artists. facebook.com/cimgllc
Rapping Duck Press
PH: 347-560-9971
Mihkel Raud
info@rappingduck.com
www.rappingduck.com
Rapping Duck is your personal press agent. Just send us your music news and we will deliver it to people who matter! Whether it's a new CD, upcoming tour, charity concert, Web site update or any other music-associated event you want to announce, there is hardly anything more potentially rewarding than a positive response to a well-written press release. Just send us your press release ??? or have our professional writer to craft one for you - and we will deliver it to top music journalists, radio stations, reviewers, bloggers, radio promoters and online communities. Rapping Duck will target your news to media professionals who are interested only in your genre of music. No pointless mass mailings to folks who don't really care about your style. Also, you can target your press release geographically. You can choose if you want your press release to go to every genre specific contact in the whole world, or just in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia or Japan.
IndiePower.com
PH: 818-505-1836
info@indiepower.com
www.indiepower.com
Started by industry veterans to further the goal of helping develop the cutting edge of new artists and labels with innovative marketing and talent. Combining 25+ years of valuable experience with an arsenal of talents and a passion for breaking albums and artists, Indie Power is about to add a few new pages to the history books! @indie_power
Serge Media Group
PO Box 5147, Canton, GA 30114
PH: 678-880-8207
Sandy Serge sergeent@aol.com
www.sergemediagroup.com
Social media, networking and publicity solutions for musicians backed by a trustworthy and diligent work ethic.
3.2 SERVICES - LABELS, DISTRIBUTORS AND ONLINE VENDORS
Xing Records
IJselstraat 19, 9406 TN Assen, The Netherlands
Alex de Vries
xingrecords@gmail.com
www.xingrecords.nl
If you are a composer/musician/performing artist and you have something we can listen to in Classic 70s Disco, Classic Pop, Soul or even Rock we are interested to hear from you. Please submit LINKS to your music on YouTube, Soundcloud or other online resources to our e-mail address. We specialize in Disco. Other musical styles we welcome are Funk, Gospel, Hip Hop, Rap, Rock, Pop, Soft Rock and Trip Hop.
Symphonic Distribution
26829 Tanic Dr. #102, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
PH: 813-699-3552
Janette Berrios
janette@symphonicdistribution.com
www.symphonicdistribution.com
We strive to provide record labels and artists effective delivery solutions and tools with unparalleled customer support. We believe in the power of independent music, not manufactured artists. We believe in the freedom of music and creativity. Raw music changes people, and we want to give artists tools that will empower them to make the music they love and give them the ability to take their careers into their own hands. We deliver your music to 300+ partners worldwide, from commercial to niche, such as iTunes, Beatport, Spotify, Google Play, Xbox Music, Beats Music & more.
XO Digital Distribution
PO Box 23441, Columbia, SC 29201
PH: 707-222-1277
info@xodigital.com
www.xodigital.com
A leading digital distributor of audio content for artists and labels from around the world. We distribute music CDs, albums and other audio content into the top digital music stores such as iTunes, AmazonMP3, Rhapsody, eMusic, GooglePlay, Spotify, Rdio, Deezer, Napster, xBox Live, Sky Play, 7 Digital and hundreds more.
SECTION FOUR: SITES WHERE YOU CAN UPLOAD YOUR BAND'S MP3s
OR VIDEOS
Music Talkers
PH: O785-4922949
Andrew Braithwaite
andrew@musictalkers.com
www.musictalkers.com
Currently, we report on all the latest music news and trends. Our focus is to also help up-and-coming artists. We give unsigned artists a chance to gain extra online exposure and help them get noticed by major labels and the music industry. If you're a solo artist or band, you can create a free artists profile. Then you can upload music/videos & integrate popular social media services. These include Soundcloud and YouTube players that stream into your profile. We drive natural music fans by our daily news and large reader base into the path of your music!
The Stage Couch TV
www.thestagecouchtv.com
We stream live HD concerts featuring independent artists. Additionally we operate a national TV network focused on independent music and artists. We're now accepting submissions from independent artists and labels worldwide! Do you want your song or video aired in hundreds of thousands of rooms all across America for free? The first step is to complete our ONLINE Submission Form. By submitting this form and sending us LINKS you are in no way signing up for your content to be broadcast, or giving us any rights to do so (that comes later in step two). This form is simply a way for us to see your awesome work and get in touch with you.
JukeBoxAlive
311 Montford Ave. Asheville, NC 28801
PH: 828-232-0016
Will Cumberland cumberland@jukeboxalive.com
jukeboxalive.com
Our Advanced Jukebox Player protects your music from being digitally downloaded, yet allows fans to hear your music online. This creates exciting possibilities for you to present yourself to new audiences without being ripped off.
SECTION FIVE: SOCIAL NETWORKS AND ONLINE COMMUNITIES
Musicpage
631 S. 70 St., Omaha, NE 68106
PH: 402-932-1456
www.musicpage.com
A social network for the people who work in the music industry. Music supervisors use us to find new music to sync, record labels use us to scout artists, music festivals and clubs use us to book showcases and artists use us to find music industry opportunities on the Music Ops Board (MOB). Musicpage profiles include detailed booking, contact and production information from all over the world.
SECTION SIX: HELPFUL TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR YOUR BAND
6.1 RESOURCES - GENERAL
Midnight Merchandise
PH: +61-410-977-394
David Weekes (Weeksy)
weeksy@midnightmerch.com.au
www.midnightmerch.com
We provide tour merchandise solutions for artists touring Australia, New Zealand, the US and Europe. We print t-shirts using screen print and direct-to-garment technologies, as well as sublimation, embroidery, and heat transfers. We also have merchandise managers throughout the world, so pretty much wherever you???re touring, we???re there. We can supply t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, mosh shorts, caps/hats, skateboard decks, banners, badges, plectrums, bottle openers, bags, etc (some items in selected areas). If you???re touring outside your hometown or country, hit us up, and see what we can do for you.
Indiemusicfunding (iMF)
www.indiefilmfunding.com
Focuses on bringing the Musicmaker (CREATOR) together with the music enthusiast (DONOR), through our unique Crowd-funding platform. The indieMusicFunding platform helps the Musicmaker set up and promote their music package to maximize the opportunity to receive funding, so that the Musicmaker can cover the costs of making their music video, studio time, scores, and touring.
Music Gateway
PH: +44 (0) 203-143-3245
support@musicgateway.net
www.musicgateway.net
A global business platform, which connects music professionals from around the globe in one simple, easy to use website. Unlike LinkedIn, we are Project workflow focused so you don't get connected until you are actually doing business or collaborating. We offer targeted ways of reaching new talent and bringing that talent to your own projects. We are stimulating work and generating paid session work for the community. Our projects allow you to reach out on a global scale and provide your services to other professionals, equally you can hire & source other music pro's and develop your career with feedback following each project. Your profile acts as a portfolio for other users to review. Get registered today for free and start working your music projects.
Indie Does It
PO Box 1791, Sunninghill, 2157 South Africa
PH: 082-811-1360
Genevieve Vieira
info@indiedoesit.co.za
www.indiedoesit.co.za
A pioneer in the South African online news space, Indie Does It is a one-stop shop for your very best music news, gossip, entertainment and commentary. Indie Does It offers a space for music enthusiasts to engage, share and learn about South Africa and its ever-progressing music industry.
Festival Network Online
PO Box 18839, Asheville, NC 28814
PH: 828-658-2779 FX: 828-645-3374
Julie Cochrane
julie@festivalnet.com
www.festivalnet.com
Lists more than 10,000 events throughout the U.S. and Canada seeking performers, from local & regional to national & international. @_festivalnet
6.2 RESOURCES - EDUCATIONAL
Hit Songs Deconstructed
1123 Broadway #518, New York, NY 10010
PH: 212-671-2308
customerservice@hitsongsdeconstructed.com
reports.hitsongsdeconstructed.com
Utilized by songwriters, producers, music industry executives and universities throughout the world, Hit Songs Deconstructed is dedicated to providing its subscribers with an in-depth understanding of the craft and trends that shape TODAY'S chart-topping hits for success in TODAY'S music industry. We break today's hit songs down to their core, extract the craft that made them a hit, and provide you with the knowledge and best practices to help prime you for success in a very competitive, fast changing musical landscape, while remaining true to your own unique artistic vision.
Music Marketing Manifesto Blog
John Oszajca
john@musicmarketingmanifesto.com
www.MusicMarketingManifesto.com
Advanced strategies, secrets, tactics and tips on selling your music online. @JohnOszajca
6.3 RESOURCES - TOOLS
Roots Music Report
13501 Ranch Rd. 12 #103-327, Wimberley, TX 78676
PH: 512-216-2749
www.rootsmusicreport.com
The number one independent music chart in the world. We compile radio airplay data from radio stations around the globe that play all forms of roots music, so that each week you can see which independent artists are being played the most & by what stations are playing them. Unlike some charts out there, the Roots Music Report charts are not subjected to radio promoter, special interest groups or record label input and we do not alter, accept payment for, or manipulate the airplay data to give special rankings on our charts. Stations reporting their play list is the only way for artist to appear on our charts and we do not pick and choose which DJ's and stations may report. If a radio station is broadcasting your music we think you should know about it and it should reflect on our charts. RMR is not owned by or influenced by any labels or record promoters as some charts are known for. We strive to help the independent artists, and have been doing since 1998. Our goals are simple: provide real/honest radio airplay data for artists so they will be able to determine whether their promotion is working, and give them the tools to help make their radio promotion more effective.
MyNewsletterBuilder
comments@mynewsletterbuilder.com
www.mynewsletterbuilder.com
A user-friendly, feature-rich, online newsletter management program for novices and professionals alike.
6.4 RESOURCES - AUDIO
Midnight Circus Productions
5765 Lake Windsor Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518
Richard L'Hommedieu
Studio@mid-nightcircus.com
www.mid-nightcircus.com
Full service Recording studio, projection system in the control room for soundtrack work.
Peerless Mastering
1085 Commonwealth Ave. #322, Boston, MA 02215
PH: 617-527-2200
info@peerlessmastering.com
www.peerlessmastering.com
Dedicated to providing the highest quality restoration. We offer the highest quality stereo and 5.1 pre-mastering, CD, CD Enhanced, and DVD-A authoring and full audio restoration. Our staff is exceptional at giving our clients the best quality and service, guiding them through the final phase of their sonic process with ease and expertise. We are uniquely equipped to provide the highest quality mastering available anywhere. We have the expertise, equipment, and skills to achieve the full sound potential of your album. As more and more artists are choosing to record in project and home studios, high-quality professional mastering in an acoustically accurate room has never been more important. Working at Peerless' state-of-the-art studios with our highly trained engineers, you can realize your sonic vision and make your recording sound as full, warm, punchy, and clear as possible. We will guide you through every step of this final phase of your project, and you will be truly amazed when you hear how incredible your music can sound. @PeerlessMaster
6.5 RESOURCES - ORGANIZATIONS
The Film Musicians Secondary Markets Fund
12001 Ventura Pl. 5th Fl. Studio City, CA 91604
PH: 818-755-7777 FX: 818-755-7778
ckuhrt@fmsmf.org
www.fmsmf.org
Provides support to film musicians and the entertainment community worldwide and assist in establishing recognition of musicians' work by ensuring the payment, processing and distribution of residuals generated by their talent and services. We effectively track, collect and distribute residual payments from the motion picture and television film industries, assist participating musicians in receiving payment of residuals due and provide leadership, assistance and service to film musicians, film producers, the music community and the entertainment industry worldwide.
SECTION SEVEN: THIS MONTH'S ARTICLE
Instagram for Bands: 10 Quick Tips to Promoting Your Music with Hip Images
by Chris Robley, DIY Musician Blog
© 2017 All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission
Instagram is one of the best social tools for bands looking to promote their music. Plus, it's free and easy to use! If you're not already using Instagram on your iPhone or Droid, you can download it for free from the Apple or GooglePlay app stores.
Got Instagram on your smartphone yet? OK. Now that we're all the same page ...
Instagram for bands ain't rocket science; simply take a picture on your phone, apply one of those hip filters so the photo will look like it's straight outta the 70?s, add a caption, and post it to all your social media profiles with a single click.
But there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to get maximum results from your band's activity on Instagram.
10 ways to make the most of your band presence on Instagram
1. Sync Instagram to ALL your social profiles
This includes your band's Facebook Page, not just your personal Facebook profile! For more info, check out Instagram's instructions HERE.
Before posting a picture, make sure you've selected the appropriate default Facebook page/profile for that particular image. Otherwise, you might find you've accidentally shared a snapshot of your family reunion with your music fans.
2. Share images across all your social networks
Every fan will have their own preferences for engaging with your content. Some like Twitter. Some like Facebook. Some check your blog. Others wait for your weekly email newsletter. So unless you're running some specific kind of campaign on one particular social platform (for instance, "Come into the recording studio with us on Twitter!" or something like that), then it's wise to share your Instagram images everywhere ??? your Facebook page, your Twitter feed, Tumblr, etc.
Note: Facebook now owns Instragram, so to kill some of the fun, they've decided to disable Instagram images from populating that nice little photo display on your Twitter profile. However, you can still share links and captions to Instagram images in your Twitter feed.
3. Diversify your portfolio
Your photo portfolio, that is. Fans want to see it all: live shots, soundchecks, broken guitars, in the van, late-night writing sessions, recording, putting up posters, pictures of new merch, shooting a video, eating lobster at a band meeting, the Santa Monica sunset, etc.
Screen shot 2012 12 13 at 2.11.55 PM Instagram for Bands: 10 Quick Tips to Promoting Your Music with Hip Images
4. Post a photo series
It's fun to post a whole series of related photos over the course of a month or two, and it'll keep your fans coming back for more. Maybe your drummer writes a different message on his drum sticks each night and snaps a quick shot. Maybe you're on the hunt for the perfect burrito, and you take a shot of a plate of Mexican food in each new city. Whatever sounds fun.
5. Use hashtags
Tag lots of your images with hashtags. This groups your photo together with related photos by other Instagram users (or with other photos you've taken with the same hashtag) under a single category. Instagram users can then find your photos based on their own interests. For instance, I was in a bar a few weeks ago and snapped this shot of the bar's wall ??? painted like Eddie Van Halen's guitar. So I tagged the image with #VanHalen.
6. Elevate the everyday
Not every moment of your musical life is going to be filled with high drama. There are plenty of little magical moments too. The mundane can be interesting if you frame it right. So share the minutia, the ennui, the drudgery. I guarantee it'll seem exciting to your fans who are sitting all day in a cubicle.
7. Put your Instagram photos on your blog or website
You can use Instagram's API or a third-party service to put your Instagram photo gallery on your own site. Check out these sites for further details:
* View your photos on the web
* Adding an Instagram feed to a website
* Getting started with the Instagram API
8. Captions can make or break the image
A little context can go a long way ??? and can turn a bad picture into something hilarious, moving, or otherwise share-worthy. Try to be clear and brief. For example, "Getting ready for our show in Toronto" or "Steve just got the call; his girlfriend is pregnant!" (On second thought, you might not want to put that one on Instagram right away).
9. Don't overthink it
Instagram is supposed to be fun. Snap a picture, add a filter, and post it! Don't spend 20 minutes setting up the perfect shot or fretting over the filter options. The more fun you have, the more it'll show in your images.
10. Ask your fans to help
Get your fans to take Instagram pictures too. But don't just ask them to take pictures of YOU. Make sure you're including them. Have them take pictures of themselves at your concerts, holding your CD, or getting a drink with you after the show. Oh, and make sure to ask them to tag your band!
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Chris Robley is the editor of DIY Musician Blog. As a songwriter, Chris has released 6 albums of original material. As a producer and/or session-player, he's appeared on over 50 records, mostly by pop, rock, folk, and jazz artists from the Pacific Northwest. This article originally appeared in the December 2012 edition of the DIY Musician Blog.
diymusician.cdbaby.com/2012/12/instagram-for-bands-10-quick-tips
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