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As a musician, artist, or band, you want to generate traction and buzz, especially around your new music releases, performances, and tours. This is especially important if you’re a DIY band, an artist without a manager or label, or anytime your budget is tight.
One of the best ways to do that is to write and distribute a press release.
Table of Contents
A music press release is a short document that outlines the key information a reporter needs to know to cover a newsworthy event about your music or band.
It can be digital or printed and should be sent to reporters, media personalities, influencers, bloggers, and others who cover news about your music genre.
You should be aware of two things:
Simply stated, a press release, when it gets picked up and run in the media, can generate huge attention, awareness, deals, listens, and sales for musicians. They’re easy to write (or we can write one for you), and inexpensive to distribute. Frankly, music press releases are a must-use promotional tool in any musician’s or band’s toolbox.
The most important thing to remember about press releases is the purpose of a press release is to communicate news to the media so they will hopefully write a story about you.
Press releases are perfect for issuing whenever you have something newsworthy to report. Just be careful, though, that you don’t send out a press release unless you’ve got something newsworthy – doing so wastes the journalists’ time and causes them to ignore your real news when it comes out. Just because you haven’t sent out a press release in awhile is not a sufficient reason to send out another one.
I bet you would like to see some examples of press releases from people in the music industry. Great, here are a few:
Ready to write your own press release to promote your music? Excellent, here’s a free template download that will help you get started:
Free Press Release Template Download
And, to help you further, here are 5 templates for the types of press releases musicians and bands most frequently issue:
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [CITY, STATE], (Month Day, Year) – [Artist/Band Name], [genre] [artist/band] from [hometown/location], announces the release of their [latest/debut/new] single “[Song Title],” available on [streaming platforms] starting [release date]. [Optional: Add one compelling detail about the song – chart position, playlist feature, unique element]. [Opening paragraph – Tell the story/hook in 2-3 sentences. What makes this single special? What’s the inspiration? Why should people care?] Example: “Written during a cross-country road trip after a tough breakup and recorded in a converted barn studio, ‘[Song Title]’ blends [genre elements] with [other influences] to create a sound that explores the essence of the desire for love. The track explores themes of [theme] through [lyrical approach], showcasing [Artist Name]’s evolution as a songwriter and performer.” [Second paragraph – Provide context about the creation, production, or significance] Example: “[Artist Name] collaborated with [producer/co-writer name] (known for work with [other artists]) to craft a production that features [specific instruments/production elements]. The single was recorded at [studio name/location] over [timeframe] and marks [Artist Name]’s [what this represents – first release of the year, follow-up to previous hit, etc.].” [Third paragraph – Include artist background and previous achievements] Example: “[Artist Name] has previously [notable achievements – toured with X, garnered X streams, featured in X publication, played X festival]. Their [previous release] received acclaim from [publications/blogs], with [Publication Name] calling it ‘[quote from review].'” [Quote from artist – Make it personal, authentic, and insightful] “[First-person quote about the song’s meaning, creation process, or what you hope listeners take away],” says [Artist Name]. “[Optional second sentence adding more depth or context].” [Closing paragraph – Call to action and availability] “[Song Title]” is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube. [Optional: Add pre-save information, upcoming releases, or related news like upcoming tour dates or music videos. Stream/Download: [URL] ### ABOUT [ARTIST/BAND NAME] For press inquiries, interviews, or high-resolution images, contact: |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [CITY, STATE], (Month Day, Year) – [Artist/Band Name] releases [their/his/her] [highly anticipated/debut/sophomore/third] [studio] album “[Album Title],” a [number]-track exploration of [central themes] available March 2026. via [label name or “independent release”]. [Opening paragraph – Set up the album’s concept, sound, and significance in 2-3 sentences] Example: “Recorded over [timeframe] in [location/studio], ‘[Album Title]’ finds [Artist Name] pushing beyond the [genre] boundaries of previous releases to incorporate [influences/new elements]. The album chronicles [overarching narrative or theme], with each track serving as a chapter in [Artist Name]’s journey through [subject matter].” [Second paragraph – Detail the creative process, collaborators, and production] Example: “[Artist Name] worked alongside [producer/collaborators] to craft an album that seamlessly blends [musical elements]. The recording process included [interesting production details – live strings, vintage equipment, field recordings, etc.]. Notable guest appearances include [features], with standout tracks like ‘[Track Name]’ and ‘[Track Name]’ showcasing [specific musical or lyrical elements].” [Third paragraph – Provide artist context and previous accomplishments] Example: “Since [debut/previous release], [Artist Name] has [achievements – toured with X, amassed X million streams, received critical acclaim from Y]. [Previous album/release] earned praise from [publications], with [Publication] describing the work as ‘[quote].’ [Artist Name] has performed at [notable venues/festivals] and built a dedicated fanbase through [specific achievements].” [Quote from artist – Discuss the album’s meaning, creation, or artistic vision] “[Album Title] represents [what it means to you],” explains [Artist Name]. “[Add 1-2 sentences about the creative journey, challenges overcome, or what you want listeners to experience]. [Optional: Mention standout tracks or themes].” [Additional paragraph if needed – Singles/videos already released, chart performance, or critical reception] Example: “The album’s lead single, ‘[Single Name],’ has already garnered [streaming numbers/radio play/chart position], while the recently released ‘[Track Name]’ premiered on [platform/publication]. [Optional: mention any music videos released].” [Closing paragraph – Availability and upcoming events] “[Album Title]” is available now on all streaming platforms, with [physical formats – vinyl, CD, cassette] available at [where to purchase]. [Artist Name] will support the album with [tour/performances/appearances – include dates if announcing simultaneously, or mention “tour dates to be announced soon”]. Album Tracklist: Listen Now: [URL] ### ABOUT [ARTIST/BAND NAME] For press inquiries, interview requests, or high-resolution assets, contact: |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [CITY, STATE], (Month Day, Year) – [Artist/Band Name] announces “[Tour Name],” a [number]-date [North American/European/worldwide] tour kicking off [start date] in [city] and running through [end date] in [city]. [Optional: Add if it’s supporting a specific album, supporting another artist, or a headline tour]. [Opening paragraph – Announce the tour scope and significance] Example: “The ‘[Tour Name]’ marks [Artist Name]’s [most extensive tour to date/first headlining tour/return to the road after X] with stops in [number] cities across [regions]. [Optional: Supporting a new album] In support of the recently released album ‘[Album Title],’ the tour will bring [Artist Name]’s [describe the live experience – high-energy performances, intimate acoustic sets, etc.] to fans throughout [season/months].” [Second paragraph – Provide tour details, special guests, and ticket information] Example: “[Artist Name] will be joined by [supporting acts/special guests] on select dates. The tour includes performances at [notable venues/festivals] and features [any special elements – full band, stripped-down sets, special production, anniversary celebration of an album]. Tickets go on sale March 2026. at [time] [time zone] via [ticketing platform/website], with presale opportunities available starting March 2026. for [who gets presale access – fan club, email subscribers, etc.].” [Third paragraph – Quote from artist about the tour] “I can’t wait to get back on the road and connect with fans in person,” says [Artist Name]. “[Add specific excitement about venues, cities, or what fans can expect from the live show]. [Optional: Mention if you’ll be playing new music, special covers, or unique setlists].” [Fourth paragraph – Add context about recent releases or achievements] Example: “The tour follows the success of [recent release/achievement], which has [streaming numbers/chart positions/critical acclaim]. [Artist Name] last toured in 2026, playing to [attendance numbers/sold-out shows] and earning recognition for [live performance accolades].” [Closing paragraph – VIP packages, special announcements] [Optional: VIP packages, meet and greets, or special experiences] “Limited VIP packages are available at select venues, including [what VIP includes – early entry, meet & greet, exclusive merchandise, soundcheck access]. Additional tour dates will be announced in [month/coming weeks].” For complete tour information, ticket links, and updates, visit [website]. **[TOUR NAME] DATES:** [Date] – [City, State] – [Venue Name] [*if special note like festival or sold out] Tickets: [Ticketing URL] ### ABOUT [ARTIST/BAND NAME] For press inquiries, interview requests, or photo pass information, contact: |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [CITY, STATE], (Month Day, Year) – [Artist/Band Name] unveils the [cinematic/visually stunning/provocative] music video for “[Song Title],” premiering exclusively on [platform – YouTube, Vevo, publication website] on March 2026.. Directed by [Director Name], the video [brief description of the visual concept]. [Opening paragraph – Describe the video’s concept, aesthetic, and how it complements the song] Example: “The ‘[Song Title]’ video transports viewers into [setting/concept], where [Artist Name] [describe main visual narrative]. Shot on location in [location] over [number] days, the video features [notable visual elements – vintage 8mm film, choreography, special effects, narrative storyline, etc.] that mirror the song’s themes of [themes].” [Second paragraph – Provide director/creative team credits and vision] Example: “Director [Name] (known for work with [other artists/projects]) collaborated with [Artist Name] to create a visual narrative that [what it accomplishes]. Cinematographer [Name if notable] utilized [camera/technique/style] to capture [visual style – noir aesthetic, vibrant colors, intimate close-ups]. [Optional: Mention other creative contributors – choreographer, production designer, costume designer].” [Third paragraph – Artist quote about the video and creative vision] “[Song Title]’ deserved a visual representation that matched its [emotional/sonic] intensity,” says [Artist Name]. “[Describe what you wanted to achieve with the video, what inspired the concept, or what you hope viewers take away]. Working with [Director Name] allowed us to [what the collaboration enabled].” [Fourth paragraph – Provide song/release context] Example: “‘[Song Title]’ is [from upcoming album/latest single/etc.] and has already [achievements – streaming numbers, playlist adds, radio play]. The track was [production details if relevant] and has been described by [publication] as ‘[quote].’ [Optional: Note if this is the first video from an album, or part of a video series].” [Fifth paragraph – Premiere details and additional content] “The music video premieres March 2026. at [specific time] [time zone] on [platform]. [Optional: Include if there’s a watch party, live Q&A, behind-the-scenes content, or director’s commentary being released]. [If exclusive premiere with a publication] [Publication Name] will host an exclusive first look, along with [behind-the-scenes photos/director interview/artist commentary].” [Closing paragraph – Availability and what’s next] Following the premiere, the video will be available on [YouTube/Vevo/etc.]. [Song Title]” is available now on all streaming platforms. [Optional: Tease upcoming releases, performances, or related content]. Watch the premiere: [URL] **CREDITS:** ### ABOUT [ARTIST/BAND NAME] For press inquiries, interview requests, or to request video stills, contact: |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [Your Primary Artist Name] [CITY, STATE] – [Month Day, Year] – [Artist Name] and [Collaborating Artist Name] join forces on “[Song Title],” a [genre-blending/powerful/unexpected] collaboration that [what it does – bridges genres, combines fan bases, pushes creative boundaries]. The track releases March 2026. via [label/independent release] on all streaming platforms. [Opening paragraph – Set up the collaboration’s significance and sound] Example: “Two distinct voices in [genre] unite for ‘[Song Title],’ as [Artist Name] teams up with [Collaborating Artist Name] to create [describe the sound/vibe]. The collaboration came together after [how you connected – met at festival, mutual producer introduced, longtime fans of each other’s work] and represents [what makes it special – first collaboration, unexpected pairing, dream collaboration].” [Second paragraph – Describe the creative process and how the collaboration developed] Example: “The track was born from [origin story – studio session, remote collaboration, chance meeting]. [Artist Name] and [Collaborating Artist Name] discovered [musical common ground/complementary styles] while [context]. Produced by [Producer Name if notable], ‘[Song Title]’ blends [Artist 1’s signature element] with [Artist 2’s signature element], resulting in [description of the sound]. [Optional: Mention who wrote what, or how responsibilities were divided].” [Third paragraph – Quote from primary artist] “Working with [Collaborating Artist] was [describe experience],” says [Your Artist Name]. “[Explain what you brought to each other’s creative process, what you learned, or what the collaboration represents]. [Optional: Mention specific moment or aspect of the track you’re proud of].” [Fourth paragraph – Quote from collaborating artist] “[First-person quote from collaborating artist about the experience, what drew them to the project, or what they hope fans take away],” adds [Collaborating Artist Name]. “[Optional second sentence].” [Fifth paragraph – Provide context about both artists] Example: “[Your Artist Name], known for [achievements/style], has previously [recent accomplishments – chart positions, collaborations, tours]. [Collaborating Artist Name] brings [their credentials – fan base size, previous hits, genre expertise], having [their recent achievements]. Together, they’ve created a track that appeals to fans of [genre/style] while pushing into new territory with [innovative element].” [Sixth paragraph – Additional release information] [Optional: Music video, performance plans, or additional collaborators] The release of “[Song Title]” will be accompanied by [music video/visualizer/live performance]. [If part of larger project] The collaboration appears on [Artist Name]’s [upcoming project] and marks [significance – first feature, first time in X genre, etc.]. [Closing paragraph – Availability and what’s next] “[Song Title]” releases March 2026. on all streaming platforms. [Optional: Pre-save information, exclusive merch, or listening event details]. Both artists will [tour together/perform at X/promote on social media] in support of the release. Pre-save: [URL] ### ABOUT [YOUR ARTIST NAME] ABOUT [COLLABORATING ARTIST NAME] For press inquiries or interview requests with either artist, contact: [Collaborating Artist Contact if different] |
Before sending:
Customization tips:
These templates provide the structure while leaving room for your unique story to shine through.
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to writing a press release, including:
Still nervous about your ability to write a great press release? Let us write it for you!
OK, now you’ve created your press release, how do you get it into the hands of the media?
You can literally spend days gathering the contact information of every reporter, influencer, blogger, and media personality that reports on your type of music and may be willing to change your life by writing a story about your music and band.
And, that list will probably be about 60% accurate. And it will change next week.
Then you’ve got to figure out how to physically send it out to all of them. (That’s no small feat either, trust me, that’s what we do for a living!)
Or, you could just let us do it for you.
eReleases.com is the #1 distributor of press releases for small businesses. Why? Because we:
Organized by coverage areas, topics, and other key factors. We will hand-select those journalists from that list who are most likely to engage with your release and write about you!
The oldest, and best, nationwide press release newswire. We are the only full-exposure partner of PR Newswire, meaning that we are the only company who can get your release delivered to PR Newswire’s complete nationwide network of reporters.
We email the personal email boxes for a hand-curated list of reporters and influencers who respect and trust our reputation, so are more likely to open and read your release.
This report shows you exactly where your press release was distributed, including links, so you can see online sites that published your stories!
When you work with us, you’ll work directly with our journalism-trained editors, not a salesperson. Our editors’ mission is to help you get great results from your press release.
Want to get amazing results from your press release?
Get real ROI on your press release, plus save 30% on your first order.
A music press release is a one-page professional document that announces newsworthy events about musicians, bands, or music projects to media outlets, journalists, bloggers, and influencers. It provides essential information such as release dates, tour details, new music launches, or significant achievements in a format that makes it easy for media professionals to cover your story. Think of it as your official announcement to the music industry and media world.
A music press release should be one page or 300-500 words maximum. Journalists and music bloggers receive hundreds of press releases daily, so brevity is critical. Your press release needs to be concise, scannable, and to the point. If your release exceeds 500 words, cut unnecessary details and focus only on the most newsworthy information. Remember: if a journalist wants more information, they’ll contact you.
Timing varies depending on what you’re announcing:
Album releases: 4-6 weeks before the release date
Tour announcements: 6-8 weeks before the first show
Single releases: 2-4 weeks before the drop date
Concerts/shows: 2-4 weeks in advance
Time-sensitive news (awards, collaborations, breaking news): Immediately
Proper timing gives journalists adequate lead time to review your music, schedule coverage, and write about your announcement when it’s most relevant.
Yes, definitely. If you want media coverage, blog features, playlist placements, or any professional publicity for your single, a press release is essential. It provides journalists and music bloggers with all the information they need to write about your release, including background, streaming links, quotes, and context. Even independent artists releasing singles benefit significantly from well-written press releases—they establish credibility and professionalism in the industry.
Every music press release should include:
A compelling headline with your artist name and the announcement
Dateline (city, state, and date)
Opening paragraph answering who, what, when, where, and why
Body paragraphs with context, background, and story details
Artist or band quote (sounds natural and authentic)
Streaming/ticket links to your music or event
High-resolution images or album artwork
Boilerplate (2-3 sentence artist bio)
Media contact information (name, phone, email)
Always write in the third person. Press releases should read as if someone else is writing about your music career, not as if you’re promoting yourself. This creates objectivity and professionalism. The only exception is direct quotes, which should be in the first person and sound natural. For example: “This album represents a turning point in my artistic journey,” says [Artist Name].
To make your press release stand out:
Lead with a hook: What makes this announcement unique or newsworthy?
Tell a story: Don’t just list facts—explain the inspiration, journey, or significance
Use vivid descriptions: Paint a sonic picture of your music
Include credible achievements: Previous coverage, tour history, collaborations
Make it visual: Include compelling images or artwork
Add multimedia: Link to private streaming links, music videos, or teasers
Keep it genuine: Authentic storytelling resonates more than hype
Yes, you can send multiple press releases for different milestones of the same project. For example:
Initial album announcement (4-6 weeks before release)
Single premiere from the album (2-4 weeks before album)
Album release day announcement
Tour announcement supporting the album
Major achievement updates (chart positions, streaming milestones)
Just ensure each press release has a distinct newsworthy angle and isn’t simply repeating the same information.
Send your press release to:
Music blogs that cover your genre
Playlist curators on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
Local and regional press (newspapers, magazines, radio)
Music journalists who write about your style of music
Industry influencers and tastemakers
Online music publications and webzines
Press release distribution services like eReleases for a broader reach and bigger impact
Target publications and individuals who actually cover your genre—sending to irrelevant outlets wastes everyone’s time.
Paste it directly in the body of the email. Do NOT attach it as a separate file. Here’s why:
Journalists are wary of opening attachments from unknown senders (virus risk)
Many will simply delete emails with attachments
Pasting it in the email makes it immediately accessible
Journalists can quickly copy and paste relevant sections
Include streaming links (Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube, Bandcamp) in the email rather than attaching MP3 files.
A press release is a single one-page announcement about a specific newsworthy event (album release, tour, etc.). An EPK (Electronic Press Kit) is a comprehensive media package that includes:
Full biography
High-resolution photos
Music samples and links
Press coverage history
Tour dates
Videos
Contact information
Sometimes multiple press releases
Think of the press release as one component that can be included in your EPK, but they serve different purposes.
Yes, when done correctly. Many music bloggers and smaller publications will copy and paste sections of your press release directly into their coverage—sometimes reprinting it entirely. Press releases are effective for:
Generating media coverage and blog features
Getting on music journalist radars
Supporting playlist pitching efforts
Creating searchable online content about your music
Building professional credibility
Attracting industry attention
Success depends on having genuinely newsworthy content, proper timing, targeting the right outlets, and professional presentation.
Costs vary widely:
DIY (free): Research and contact journalists yourself via email
Press release distribution services: $399-$500+ for quality services
Music PR firms: $1,000-$10,000+ per month for full-service campaigns
For independent artists on a budget, DIY distribution to targeted journalists in your genre often yields the best ROI, especially if you’ve researched who covers music like yours.
Newsworthy music press releases typically announce:
First-time releases (debut single, first album)
Major tours or festival appearances
Collaborations with known artists or producers
Label signings or major partnerships
Award nominations or wins
Significant streaming milestones (1M plays, viral moments)
Unique creative elements (concept albums, innovative videos)
Charitable initiatives or social impact
Career milestones (anniversaries, reunions)
Avoid sending press releases just to say you released a song. There needs to be an angle that makes journalists want to write about it.
Yes, absolutely. Include at least one quote from yourself (or a band member) that adds personality and context. Quotes should:
Sound natural and conversational, not overly promotional
Provide insight into your creative process or inspiration
Give journalists something they can use directly in articles
Reveal something personal or interesting about the project
Good quote: “This album was written during the hardest year of my life. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s the most vulnerable I’ve ever been in my music.”
Bad quote: “This is the best album of the year, and everyone should listen to it because it’s amazing.”
Yes, using a template is a smart starting point, especially for your first press release. Templates ensure you include all necessary elements and follow the proper format. However, customize the template to reflect your unique story—don’t just fill in blanks. The best templates provide structure while allowing your authentic voice and newsworthy angle to shine through.
Track these metrics:
Media pickups: How many outlets covered your announcement?
Website traffic: Did you see spikes after distribution?
Streaming numbers: Did streams increase following coverage?
Social media engagement: More followers, shares, or mentions?
Direct contacts: Did journalists reach out for interviews?
Playlist additions: Were you added to new playlists?
Google search results: Does your release appear in search?
A successful press release may not go viral, but it should generate at least a few media placements, increased visibility, and new opportunities.
Major mistakes include:
Being too long or overly detailed (over 500 words)
Writing in the first person instead of the third person
Using superlatives and excessive hype (“best,” “revolutionary,” “game-changing”)
Sending without a newsworthy angle
Poor timing (too early or too late)
Including typos or grammatical errors
Forgetting contact information or streaming links
Making the headline boring or generic
Not targeting the right journalists or outlets
Attaching files instead of pasting them in the email body
This depends on your budget and goals:
Write it yourself if:
You’re just starting out and building experience
You have a limited budget ($0-$500)
You’re comfortable with writing and research
You’re releasing singles or EPs independently
You have time to research and pitch journalists
Hire a PR professional if:
You have budget ($1,000-$10,000+ per campaign)
You’re doing a major album release or tour
You want access to established industry contacts
You need coverage in major publications
You don’t have time to handle outreach yourself
Many successful independent artists start with DIY PR and graduate to professional services as their careers grow.
Only send press releases when you have something genuinely newsworthy to announce. Quality over quantity is essential—sending too many releases about minor updates will cause journalists to ignore you. A typical release schedule might include:
1-2 press releases per single campaign
2-4 press releases per album cycle
1 press release per major tour or event
Occasional releases for awards, milestones, or collaborations
Sending a press release “just because it’s been a while” is not a valid reason and damages your credibility.
Even the best press release is useless unless the right people receive it! That’s our specialty – custom distributing press releases to the reporters, editors, bloggers, and influencers most likely to pick up and publish your press release, or even better, to write their own story about you. Learn more about our press release distribution services here.
Finally, here are some tips and training to help you write an amazing press release: