Avoid These Mistakes, Embrace These Habits
In 2025, music blogs still hold weight. They are more than just publicity machines—they’re trusted tastemakers and curators of culture. But while hundreds of artists reach out to them weekly, very few do it the right way. For an indie artist, understanding what bloggers actually want (and what instantly turns them off) can mean the difference between being ignored and getting featured.
Here’s a deep dive into what music bloggers are truly looking for—and how to avoid classic submission mistakes.
1. Keep It Short, Personal, and Relevant
The #1 mistake artists make? Emails that are way too long. Music bloggers receive dozens, sometimes hundreds, of emails per day. If your message takes more than 15 seconds to scan, it’s probably being skipped.
Do this instead:
– Use the blogger’s name if you know it
– Mention a recent article they wrote or artist they featured
– Explain in 1–2 sentences why your music would fit their blog
Think like a journalist pitching a story. Be clear, sharp, and respectful of their time.
2. Always Include the Essentials
Believe it or not, some artists forget to include links. Others paste five paragraphs about their musical journey but leave out a streaming URL.
What you should always include:
– Direct streaming link (SoundCloud, Spotify, or YouTube)
– One high-quality image (press photo or artwork)
– A brief artist bio (3–5 sentences)
– A press quote or highlight (if available)
– Social media handles
– Private/unreleased links (if the song isn’t out yet)
Make everything accessible without needing to download files or log in to anything.
3. Your Bio Matters More Than You Think
A well-written bio is often copy-pasted into articles. If it’s messy, too long, or written in third-person clichés, it won’t help your case.
Tips for a solid artist bio:
– Be human. Tell your story, not your résumé.
– Use your own voice if possible
– Highlight influences, style, and emotional tone
– Keep it under 200 words
And please—avoid lines like “Music is my life” or “My style is unique.”
4. Don’t Attach MP3s or Large Files
Most blogs will not open attachments due to risk or time constraints. Upload your music to a private streaming platform (SoundCloud unlisted or Dropbox preview) and share the link.
Attachments clog inboxes and raise red flags.
5. Format Like a Professional
An unstructured email is harder to read, and hard-to-read messages rarely get replies. Structure your pitch with:
– A short greeting
– Who you are and why you’re writing
– A one-line description of the track
– A link to stream
– A thank you / sign-off
Use bold or spacing to guide the eye—but don’t over-design.
6. Timing and Follow-Up Etiquette
Don’t email your new track on a Saturday night. Aim for Tuesday–Thursday mornings, when inboxes are freshest.
If you haven’t heard back after 7–10 days, one polite follow-up is fine. Avoid copy-paste chasers. A short reminder and updated link (if relevant) is all you need.
7. Be Easy to Support
When a blog does share your music, thank them, share their post, and tag them on socials. Bloggers remember artists who are gracious and respectful—and they’ll be more likely to support your future releases.
Bloggers aren’t gatekeepers. They’re collaborators. Treat them with the same care you’d offer to a fan, a DJ, or a label. Bring your best, keep it concise, and let your music speak for itself.
You can also submit your track directly to our team at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1lhZHEqMsrh0V8OflM3rkTU_EFLLQDXzDb8LzDfDb2OY
We’re part of audiartist.com, a platform that champions independent music across blogs, playlists, and creative features.
