To become a music publicist, you need a degree in public relations, communications, or business, as well as experience in the music industry. Building a client base and networking with journalists and media companies is important. Politeness and organization are key skills for the job.
A music publicist contacts members of the press to get media coverage and reviews of bands and musicians he promotes. To become a music publicist, you need the right mix of training, personality and interest in music. Aspiring publicists may have the best employment chances by earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Internships or short-term employment opportunities in a music industry business can also provide useful experience.
The first step on the path to becoming a music publicist is getting the right training. Music publicists usually have a background in public relations, communications, or business. You must first earn a bachelor’s degree and then earn a master’s degree to advance in your field, if necessary. While at school, take advantage of internships to meet other advertisers. Attending concerts by local bands and socializing with students in your school’s music department is a good way to connect, which can be helpful in finding future clients.
Shy violets may not be best suited for a music publicist position. The main part of a publicist’s job is contacting journalists and music reporters. Sometimes it may be necessary to reach out to someone you don’t know to request coverage for a band you are promoting. As a publicist, you usually also need to be organized. Keeping track of reporters answering your questions is a must if you want to get writing done for your clients.
The next step in becoming a music publicist is to build your client base. One of the best ways to start is to introduce yourself to a local or up-and-coming band whose music you like and ask if they have a publicist. Leave your card with the band if you meet in person. If you send the band an email, please include all of your contact information at the end of the email. Once you’ve built a strong customer base, ask them to consult with other bands that might need a publicist.
It can also be helpful to build your contact list at media and advertising companies. After completing your education, you may choose to apply for an entry-level job at a public relations firm or try your hand at working as a music publicist on a freelance basis. Even if you decide to go freelance, you’ll want to know who the other publicists are so you can ask for tips on how to get in touch with unknown journalists or magazines. Always be polite when contacting music reviewers. Introduce yourself and the band you are promoting. Don’t take on too casual a tone, even in an email. When writing for a new publication, always remember to address a specific person and not the general music department.
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