Finding the right music promoter

Whilst it may be tempting to fire out your music to every single promoter contact you’ve come across, you are ultimately wasting your time - which would be better spent investigating a little further initially. Try to target promoters who specialise in your type of sound. Check out what genres of music promoters are putting on and bands that they’ve previously booked. Does it fit in with your style? There’s no point emailing an acoustic promoter when you’re a heavy rock band! Spend some time looking on their website and recent gigs they’ve organised to make sure you are barking up the right tree before you hit the Send button.

What to send to music promoters

How gig promoters prefer to hear from musicians and how they want to hear your tracks varies across the industry. Whilst some prefer to receive track links via email, others find messages like this clog up their mailbox and would prefer an Instagram DM with a link to your music. The Promoter and Venue listings in The Unsigned Guide will tell you exactly how each contact prefers to hear from you & what format they want your music in. Many promoters will have information on their website about the best way to submit music so make sure you follow their guidelines. Generally it’s best to keep contact short and relevant. A brief intro about your music, where you’re based, what gig dates you’re looking for and details of any noteworthy gigs you’ve played in the past is a good start. If the promoter has previously put on bands that you have a similar sound to that is also worth mentioning, and will add a personal touch to demonstrate you’ve done your research. It’s also a good idea to put together a press kit to direct promoters to. It’s a straightforward easy way for them to find out everything they need to know in one simple click, but just ensure you keep it up to date! Don’t forget to include contact details for your band and links to well-maintained websites and social media pages.

Develop your music network

Having a wide and supportive network is key to being successful in the music industry - and plays a crucial part in helping you get more gig bookings. Having a strong social media presence, as well as being well-known within your local music scene can really help boost your chances of being booked more often and putting you front-of-mind in promoter considerations. Check out our video below to learn more about developing your musical network and getting more gig slots.

Don't be afraid to follow up

There is no harm in politely following up your email - or DM - if you don’t hear anything at all, typically leaving 4 to 6 weeks from your initial contact. Like any professional music conversation, use your best judgement to decide how and when to reach back out. This is something that your band or artist manager will be able to assist you with. Speak with them about helping organise your gig bookings. Whatever your band's aspirations, you'll need to secure a good amount of live shows to expand your network and fanbase. Finding and connecting with local music promoters is a great way to get more bookings, so follow these steps that we've laid out and get those coveted support - or headline - slots.