How to Get CD Reviews

This is a great time to be a band. With the internet, there are hundreds more places to get a CD reviewed and get exposure. There are also more music magazines. A lot more. You probably don’t have unlimited funds so you’ve got to focus.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• A finished CD
• A press kit
• CD mailers

1. Prepare a press kit: past reviews, bio, pictures of live shows/other. It doesn’t have to be too extensive, just a general idea of what the bands about.
2. Send the CD to music blogs. The great thing about music blogs is that they’re viral. If one popular blog writes about you, other blogs might follow suit. Go to the Hype Machine (www.hypem.com) to find the most popular music blogs. Also check which blogs are most linked on Technorati (www.technorati.com). Offer some free mp3s so music blogs can play a song or two.
3. Check on the music blog for contact info. There might be an address listed. If there’s only an email, send a query tailored to that blog—not just a generic, spam-like message.
4. Send the CD to music magazines. Everyone would like to be reviewed on Pitchfork (www.pitchforkmedia.com) but everyone can’t be. Send to other online music magazines as well. Check music magazine directories for a full list.
5. Send the CD to print magazines. Go to a music store/book store and thumb through magazines to find some lesser-known music magazines. If possible, send the CD directly to a writer who’s reviewed similar CDs in the past.
6. Send the CD to local weeklies and newspapers.
7. If all else fails, hire a publicist. A publicist can send out CDs to all of the above. Costs money, of course, but saves time, and publicists know the industry.

Tips & Warnings

• Always write something personal to a reviewer. Flattery works: I love this blog because…or I loved this article…but don’t be too brown nosing.
• Always be networking. Have promo CDs available at shows if you meet someone who reviews CDs online or in print.