The main goal in creating a press kit is to generate interest in an
artist and the music they play. A press kit includes background
information, photos, samples of music, a listing of past and future
gigs you have scheduled, and any other pertinent information.
A press kit is used as a way of introducing and artist to newspapers,
the media, promoters, and music industry leaders. You can create a
press kit that is mailed to the appropriate recipients and it is a good
idea to have an electronic form of your press kit that can be emailed
and posted on web sites.
Things to include in your press kit:
Offer a limited a mount of information about yourself, your band, and
your style of music. Don't give the reader more information than they
want. If your introduction is too lengthy, you will lose the interest
of your intended audience.
Talk about your music, the way in which you perform your songs, your
sound, and who your influences are. You will want to give a good idea
of what you may sound like in these descriptions. Do not be afraid to
interject a little humor into your descriptions. You will get someone's
attention during the very first minute they open your press kit. If you
do not captivate them immediately, they will lose interest.
Describe the things that make you special in comparison to everyone
else. What are your skills and experience level? Why would a record
promoter or executive gain by giving you a chance to record and market
your music? Record companies spend a great deal of money in promoting
new artists. You will want to make it clear why you would be a good
investment.
Include press clippings and quotes as they become available. A remark
made about you by a reputable person will go a long way in making your
press kit credible. This will let the reader know that you have been
recognized as a talent to be reckoned with and could possibly create
extra momentum for you while you are trying to launch your career.
Whether you are in need of a singer, musician, or actor press kit,
recognition from others is a great tool in promoting yourself.
You really only need one page of your press kit to be devoted to a
biography and one page that includes quotes and press clippings. This
rule stands even in an online portfolio. By keeping each topic on a
simple page, you are much more likely to hold the interest of the
person who receives your press kit. Make sure the tone of your band
press kit is in line with who you are as a person and the type of music
you perform.
A sample of your music in the form of a high quality CD or clips that
can be heard in an electronic press kit are critical. Make certain you
label the CD with your name and contact information. If someone loves
your music but has misplaced the rest of your press kit, you will want
this information to readily available to them.
Be careful not to overdo the self-promotion. You should be positive and
state your ambitions, but shameless self-promotion will make you look
unprofessional and less than credible. Also avoid including too much
personal information. No one cares (yet) about your first pet, your
grades in elementary school, or your personal phobias. Keep the focus
on your music and your accomplishments. You want to be sure you do not
look desperate for work, even if you really are.
Include a personal cover letter to whomever you send your press kit to,
and try to avoid sending your musician press kit unsolicited. It is
always better to have a referral from a friend or associate of the
person you wish to see your material.
