How to Write a Press Release for Radio

Learning how to write a press release for radio is an essential skill for artists and bands aiming to boost their radio plays.

A well-crafted press release ensures that radio producers, music coordinators, and presenters notice your music amidst a sea of submissions.  

If you’re wondering how to write a press release for radio, this blog post is for you. We’ve collaborated with industry expert Georgie Palzeaird, who has extensive experience as a radio plugger and presenter – here’s her insider advice. 

For more insights from experienced music industry professionals, apply to study at WaterBear. Our courses are delivered by some of the music industry’s most accomplished professionals, as well as hosting regular masterclasses with special guests. 

Press releases are not just for newspapers and magazines, they’re also critical for promoting your music to radio stations.

Whether you’re an independent artist or part of a band, a concise and engaging press release can capture the attention of radio producers and presenters. 

“When you send your press release to the radio, it could be the music coordinator, a presenter, or a producer reading it,” says Georgie. “They need to be able to scan through it as quickly as possible to decide if you’re worth listening to.” 

Radio producers and presenters are busy people. A concise, one-page press release is far more likely to get read than a lengthy document. 

“If they see there are two pages of writing, it will automatically turn them off, and they simply won’t read it,” Georgie explains.

“The only time I get to read press releases is in-between songs or on advert breaks. I have about three minutes to scan through my emails.” 

Keeping your press release short and to the point increases the likelihood of your music being heard. 

The blurb is your opportunity to showcase your achievements and tell your story.

Highlight impressive stats, notable gigs, and any major radio plays or Spotify streams. 

“All of these sorts of things, please put them in BOLD,” says Georgie. “If I’m reading this press release, I’ll be scanning through as quickly as possible and probably only reading the bits in bold.” 

For example, mention: 

• The number of Spotify streams or radio plays you’ve achieved. 

• High-profile artists you’ve supported. 

• Iconic venues where you’ve performed. 

Radio stations are busy environments, and producers don’t have time to search for your music or social media.

Include direct links to your social media profiles and streaming platforms, so they can find your work quickly. 

“If you want me to find you on social media, don’t tell me where to look – give me a link,” says Georgie. “If you want me to check out your Spotify, don’t tell me you’re the third one down when searching your artist name – give me the link.” 

The easier you make it for radio pluggers and producers, the higher your chances of being played on air. 

To make the process even easier, here’s a simple template you can follow when creating your press release: 

[Your Band/Artist Name] 

[Name of Your Single/EP] 

Listen Here – [Hyperlink to your track or video] 

Artwork/Press Shot – [Insert image or link to download] 

• [Briefly introduce yourself or your band. Example: “We are a Brighton-based indie band inspired by the sounds of Fleetwood Mac and the 1975.“] 

• [Highlight notable achievements. Example: “Our debut single has amassed 250,000 Spotify streams and has been played on BBC Introducing.“] 

• [Add any relevant performance or collaboration details. Example: “We recently supported [Artist Name] at [Venue Name] and will be headlining [Event Name] in December.“]

• Website [Insert hyperlink] 

• Spotify [Insert hyperlink] 

• Instagram [Insert hyperlink] 

• Email [Insert email address] 

This simple structure will make it easy for radio producers and presenters to find everything they need quickly. 

Creating a professional press release is an essential step in your journey to securing radio play.

Following these tips will help your submission stand out to radio pluggers, producers, and presenters. 

If you’re serious about taking your music career to the next level, join us at WaterBear for an Open Day or order a prospectus.

Our expert-led courses provide the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in today’s music industry.