A press kit is a compact packet that gives a good overview of the artist. Prepare to have the press kit available in both electronic and physical formats.
What to include in a press kit?
- Music: include maximum of 3 tracks. Choose your best tracks, and put the best one first.
- Biography: Explain in a maximum of one page what you are about. Include positive quotes from reviews.
- Photo: include one good quality 8×10 photo, that is printing quality in a .jpg format
- Reviews, interviews, prizes, tv and radio appearances: if you’ve had any good publicity, include a list of your media visibility
- Numbers: If you have 10 000 Facebook fans and have sold 3000 tracks already, remember to include this information in your biography
Electronic Press Kit (EPK)
Electronic press kit can be as simple as your Myspace page or website. Just make sure the site you submit is uncluttered, up-to-date and has your best stuff easily available. Send an introductory email, stating how you got the recipients contact details, and why you are emailing them. If you were requested to send the press kit, remind the recipient where you met and what you discussed. Include a link to the relevant webpage.
Physical Press Kit
Put the press kit in a folder so that all your stuff is neatly in one place. Remember to label everything. You may also include an introductory letter. Make sure you include enough postage stamp.
Do
- Keep it brief and to the point. You don’t need to say everything, the press kit is showcasing you, and you can always follow up with more if required.
- Always include your name, phone number and website address on every piece of your press kit
- Make sure you submit your press kit in the format that the recipient prefers it, find the information on their website. If they want a folder in their Dropbox, then install Dropbox and do it.
- If you are submitting a physical presskit, put it in a folder that keeps everything in place nicely. (Still remember to include your name etc on each piece)
- If you have a visual look (a good idea) and a logo, design the press kit in the style of the rest of your visual material. Don’t try too hard, you don’t need to make your press kit in hand printed paper and bind it with your own hair. It is supposed to be informative and professional.
Don’t
- Don’t send mp3′s and large fotos as email attachement. You will only block the recipients email ensuring that they will never want to hear from you again.
- Don’t send more than 3 tracks. If they want more, they will ask for it. It’s better to leave them asking for more, than swamp them with everything you’ve ever done.
- Don’t explain your life story in your biography starting from your piano lessons at the age of four. Don’t include old line-up information or discuss your problems.
- Use a photo that shows who you are. It’s worth getting at least one good, professional quality photo taken. And remember: art is great for album covers, not for promo pictures.
- Don’t make excuses or explanations. Be positive and confident.