Why Most Press Pitches Fail
Music journalists and bloggers receive dozens of pitches per day. Most are ignored because they: have no compelling news hook (a release alone is not a story); are addressed generically ('Dear Blog Editor'); are far too long; have no context for why this publication should care; or come from artists the journalist has no prior relationship with. The solution is treating press outreach like a targeted business pitch, not a broadcast.
The Press Kit
Before pitching anyone, have a press kit ready. This should include: a concise, well-written bio (200 words and 500 words versions); 2–3 high-resolution press photos; links to your best 1–2 tracks in streaming and download format; previous press quotes if available; and a list of notable achievements (significant shows, placements, streaming milestones). Keep it on a simple Google Drive or dedicated press page.
Research Before You Pitch
Find publications and blogs that actually cover your genre and your level. Pitching a major national music magazine for your debut single is a waste of time. Find writers who regularly cover artists at your stage — read their recent articles, understand what they cover, and reference this specifically in your pitch. Personalised pitches get responses; generic ones don't.
The Pitch Email
Subject line: [New Music] Artist Name — Track/Album Title. Body: 1 sentence about who you are; 1 sentence about the specific release; 1 sentence about why this fits their publication/readership; streaming link and download link; your press kit link. Under 150 words total. Follow up once, politely, 10 days later if no response.