Marketing your music can be a daunting task. While a good marketing strategy is always the way to go, before you drop a new single or release your debut, there is an outlet you should work into your plan of attack. Submitting your music for reviews.

Not only will this resource provide a “word of mouth” backing from a reputable influencer, but this type of exposure can also catapult the hype around your release, as well as develop a point of contact for future releases.

The Impact Of Review

An unknown artist has no appeal. An unknown artist that is backed by a reputable critic, sparks interest. There is power in the hands of the writers who are evaluating artist submissions. These writers are the respected opinion and guide for music enthusiasts who are looking for the next big thing to blow their mind.

Where To Begin

Review sites thrive on premiers. Whether it is an album, single or video. Providing an exclusive or private way to listen to unreleased material is like a special privilege. For the reader of the review, it creates excitement and anticipation. The review was so good they just can't wait to hear it your material. 2 months before the release date you should begin researching blogs and review websites.

Things To Look For

- Making sure the site reviews music of your genre.

Don’t just randomly submit blast blogs to review your music. You could be wasting your time and theirs, thus creating a bad taste in the mouth of the site you contacted. If their readers aren't familiar or interested in your genre, they will take zero interest in the review.

- Are they accepting submissions?

Reviews are what a lot of these site/blogs focus on. Keep in mind they receive hundreds of submissions daily. So, of course, they will clearly state their policy and how to submit. If they specifically say they are NOT accepting submissions, respect that and keep checking back.

- How do they accept submissions?

They may offer a form for you to fill out on their site. This leaves little to no chance for error on your part. However, it does take away any attempt to establish a personal relationship with the website/writer and makes it a little more difficult to stand out.  The other option they may have for you to submit your music is by email. This makes it a little easier to address them directly, however it leaves the door wide open for an immediate "no" if you say the wrong things.

- What are their requirements?

If the site has requirements be sure to meet every single one of them. Nothing more and nothing less. Not meeting their requirements says to them that you couldn’t take the time to comply with their policy. So why should they give their time to you if you couldn't take the time to follow simple guidelines?

How To Use The Review

If your release is reviewed be sure to post a snippet of the review and include a link to the review that encourages your fans to visit the site to continue reading. Thank the website and writer by name. This furthers the personalization and contact with the website, thus strengthens the contact you have developed for future interactions.

You can also include the best quote, typically one or two sentences from the review, and include it in your promotional material, press kit, and bio’s on streaming media services and social media.

Conclusion

If you are wanting to expand your reach and gain exposure be sure that submitting material to a reputable website for review is part of your marketing strategy. Conducting research 2 months prior to a release will ensure you are sending the right material, to the right blog that will, in turn, get it to the right audience.

Submit your material 1 month prior to the release date to leave enough time for your submission to even be looked at. If they decide to review it, there will still be enough time for it to be published before your album/single is released. The hype of something new delivering a “must hear” vibe from a respected influencer can provide a boost in your fan base, sales, plays, hits, and contribute to your overall success.

What's Next?

Our next article will focus on how to build an EPK (Electronic Press Kit) and how to write a pitch for when you submit your material to a music critique. You’ll also be surprised to learn why sending links to your website and social media accounts could be hurting you rather than helping you.