How to Prepare for an Interview as an Artist

Whether it’s for radio, podcasts, TV, or print media, the question I hear most often is, “how can I prepare for an interview?” My answer is always the same: “Have you got your story straight?” 

But before you even think about preparing for an artist interview, you need to land one.

How do you get interviewed on a podcast, by a magazine, or even on the news?

This guide covers not only how to prepare for an interview, but also how to secure one as a musician or artist. 

Getting an artist interview isn’t just about luck, it’s about strategy.  

Here are some actionable steps to help you secure your first (or next) interview as an artist or band:

Consistently releasing new music keeps you in the public eye and gives interviewers a reason to feature you.

Spotify for Artists offers great insights into how your releases perform.

Each release is an opportunity to reach out to the press, radio, and podcast hosts.

Your music and persona should leave people wanting to know more. This starts with a unique sound, captivating visuals, and an intriguing backstory. Tools like Canva make it easy to create engaging visuals that align with your sound.

Use your social media to share teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and highlights that make people curious about you as an artist. 

Your online personality should align with your music and brand.

Engage with your audience authentically on social media. Regular posts, interactions, and updates show potential interviewers that you’re active, relatable, and ready to connect. 

However, while authenticity is key, maintain an air of mystery.

Avoid posting every detail of your life, as this can dilute your story. Save some unique and exciting details to share during interviews. 

For support with building your brand as an artist or band, our Music Industries Team at WaterBear have extensive experience and knowledge from across the music industry. Book an Open Day, or arrange a 1-1 to find out more. 

Performing live helps you build your reputation and connect with fans and industry professionals.

Whether you’re opening for bigger artists or headlining your own gigs, live shows create opportunities for coverage and interviews

Here’s your options:

Securing a supporting slot for a more established artist can significantly boost your visibility.

This association not only enhances your credibility but also makes you more appealing to interviewers.

Plus, headliners often attract press coverage to their shows, providing a valuable opportunity for you to introduce yourself to journalists and media professionals.

Organising and headlining your own gigs demonstrates your ability to attract an audience and highlights your dedication to your music career.

Listing shows on Bandsintown can help boost visibility.

These events are excellent PR opportunities. Invite local journalists and press to showcase your talent and build valuable media connections.  

At WaterBear, we offer a range of exciting performance opportunities throughout the year, as well as opportunities to host your own gig at our state-of-the-art seafront WaterBear Venue in Brighton. 

Proactively contact media outlets, podcast hosts, and journalists.

Personalise your pitch – research their platform and explain why your story fits their audience. A thoughtful email can go a long way.

• Podcasts: Search for interview style podcasts that have previously featured similar artists in your genre and reach out via their website or social media. 

• Radio Stations: Send an email or DM to producers or hosts of music shows on radio stations. 

• Magazines and Blogs: Look for writers who have covered similar artists and pitch your story to them. 

When you’re an artist, your music and lyrics tell a story.

But your personal story (the journey behind your art) adds context and depth. It’s the piece that connects your audience to you as a person, not just as a performer.

Your story helps people understand the inspiration behind your music, making it far more relatable and memorable. 

When preparing for an interview, it’s important to weave both factual and emotional elements into your narrative.

Two quotes from storytelling experts can help shape your approach: 

“The best way to unite an idea with emotion is by telling a compelling story. In a story, you not only weave a lot of information into the telling, but you also arouse your listeners’ emotions and energy.”
– Robert McKee, Screenwriter, The Colour Purple

“You can have piles of facts and still fail to resonate. It’s not the information itself that’s important, but the emotional impact of that information.”
– Nancy Duarte, Author of Resonate 

What exactly do I mean by “Death by Wikipedia”? It’s those interviews where the artist rattles off facts and dates like a robot, ticking off a checklist without any energy or connection.

While it’s important to share the details of your journey, you must also make the audience feel something. Use facts but always accompany them with the emotion behind the story. 

Here are three core questions to help structure your story: 

1. How did we get here?
   What’s the backstory to this album/single/project? What was the creative journey, and what work went into bringing this project to life? 
2. Where are we right now?
   What lessons have you learned? How has your experience shaped you as an artist or as a band? Has the songwriting process evolved in any way? 
3. Where are we going?
   What’s next? What are your ambitions with this release? Are you touring, collaborating, or planning something big? How can you invite your audience to join you on the next part of the journey? 

1. Create Your Story: Craft a compelling narrative and invest in it emotionally. Speak from your personal perspective.
2. Focus on the Basics: Remember the key facts – the name, the journey, the destination and where your audience can find you. 
3. Bring Your Bio to Life: Don’t just recite your bio, use it as the foundation for your conversation, and breathe life into it. 
4. Prepare with Confidence: Be ready with the facts, but also prepare for the unexpected. Confidence comes from knowing your story inside out. 
5. Enjoy the Opportunity: Interviews are an opportunity to connect with your audience, share your journey, and get your music out there.  

Every interview is an opportunity to connect with new fans, expand your reach, and showcase the journey you’ve been on.

The more you embrace your story, the more others will connect with it, whether they’re listening to your music for the first time or following your every move. 

As you continue to develop your music career, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Whether it’s reaching out to media outlets, preparing for an interview, or simply building your brand, each step you take brings you closer to your goals.  

If you’re looking for further guidance on how to build your music career, refine your story, or develop your overall artist strategy, WaterBear is here to help. Book an Open Day or Order a Prospectus today to take the next step in your music career.