Whether you’re submitting your single to an Internet station or a traditional terrestrial station, there are some things that must be included if you hope to get airplay. Sure, a digital mp3 or CD copy of your favorite track is a must but so are these four things:
1. Cover Photo
Show radio program directors that you’re for real. Create a cover photo whether you’re sending digital tracks or CDs. Not artistic? No problem! There are many graphic designers available who will take your ideas and create a graphic that matches your style and image.
2. Name of the Song
Provide the name of the song and not just a generic file name saved on the computer. Elementary, my dear!
3. Artist Name
An artist name is probably the most important piece in submitting singles to radio stations. Provide a stage name, if appropriate. This item as well as number 2 not only identify you and your song, they help you get paid royalties when your songs show up correctly to the performing rights organizations such as Sound Exchange.
4. Embed it in the mp3.
You become more favorable in the program director’s eyes when you save them time by embedding the pertinent information into your mp3 and/or CD track. A quick Google search for “embed title, name, cover in mp3” will bring up several articles that provide steps for how to perform this step. A good producer should also provide this service for you as part of the package.
These items may seem fundamental to you, but believe it or not, radio stations across the country constantly receive singles without cover photos or the most basic information embedded in the track. At ECHE, we want to help you make the best impression possible. After all, as the saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”