How to Promote an Independent CD

With the advent of technology and in-home studios and recording equipment, recording an independent CD is easier than ever. However, promoting that CD and making it stand out in a sea of other artists and recordings can be challenging, especially without the assistance of a label or manager. Learn how to promote an independent CD and jump-start your music career.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Invitations
• Announcements
• T-shirts
• Stickers
• Posters
• MySpace account

1. Have a CD release party. The best way to generate buzz for your independent CD is to have an event to celebrate its release, including a live performance featuring music from the CD. Invite your family and friends and send announcements to key media outlets in your city--television and radio stations, newspapers, magazines and online calendars. Be sure to offer food and drinks and have CDs and other items for sale such as t-shirts, stickers and posters. You want as many people talking about your event and your CD.

2. Develop a website. If you can't afford to hire a website developer, take advantage of a free account on MySpace to promote your music and your independent CD. On MySpace (see Resources), you can post a bio, upload songs, list upcoming concert dates and add fans, all of which can help generated buzz for your recordings. At Sonic Bids (see Resources), you can submit an electronic press kit--including bios, press and audio clips and photos--that you can send to promoters easily. The site charges a small fee, generally less than $10 per month for the basic service, and allows you to connect with promoters and potential gigs to promote your independent CD.

3. Give your CD to as many people as possible. Keep a stash in your bag or in your car to distribute to friends, family, colleagues and any one else you meet. Always have business cards on hand with a link to your website and your contact information and pass those out as well.

4. Send CDs to newspaper and magazine editors. From your neighborhood newspaper to your alumni magazine to your city's daily newspaper and music industry magazines, no publication is too big or too small. Start with publications in your area and identify arts and entertainment and features editors. Send your CD with a bio and contact information, preferably in a nice folder. You can also email editors and direct them to your online press kit. Don't forget to send to online-only publications.

5. Consider hiring a professional publicist. He or she will have the media connections and experience and give you advice on how best to promote your independent CD.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep cards and CDs handy and always be willing to talk about your CD and your music.

Resources

• MySpace
• Sonicbids

[misthaven]

on 7/24/2009 I plan on releasing an independent cd sometime soon. I don't know why I didn't realize you could send cds to newspapers and magazines. 5*