Radio still moves the needle, especially non-commercial and college radio. And unlike playlists, radio DJs actually champion the artists they choose to play.
Start with college and community stations in your region. They exist to break new artists, and their music directors actually listen to submissions.
Your servicing package: the clean radio edit, a one-sheet with your story, and a personal note to the DJ. Keep attachments small and prefer streaming links.
Call, don’t just email. A polite two-minute call to the music director beats fifty unopened emails. Ask what they are looking for right now.
When you get adds, promote the station. Tag them, thank them, and tell your fans to request your song. DJs remember the artists who drive listeners back.
Track your spins with a monitoring service. Airplay data becomes leverage for bigger stations, sponsors, and a stronger EPK. Every spin is an asset.
Service the single, not the album. Radio needs one focused track with a clean edit and a compelling story. Sending twelve songs guarantees none of them get played; sending one great one gives it a genuine shot.
Follow the charts that matter to you: college, non-commercial, and specialty shows. Charting, even on a small chart, becomes a credential for your next pitch. Momentum in radio is built market by market, patiently.
Make a list of ten college and community stations in your region today, then call three music directors this week. Introduce yourself, ask what they are spinning, and send the package. Radio is a relationship business.
About the Author – Ruben Burgos: Ruben Burgos brings over 25 years of music expertise and more than 15 years of model guidance to the table. He is the indie major pinnacle to retaining credits for musicians and helping them navigate this wicked industry without the fuckery.