The Ultimate Music Submission Guide
Whether you’re brand new to the music scene or have been collecting a serious following for some time, getting your music out there to be heard by your fans is your number one priority as an entertainer. From releasing singles to submitting your music to festivals and everything in between there are a million moving parts to look at. Once you’re in, you need to make sure you’re able to get the most of the experience as well.
Quick Summary
To succeed in the music scene, artists must prioritize getting their music heard. The Ultimate Music Submission Guide by AMW offers essential tactics for contest and festival submissions, including a detailed checklist of materials, effective templates for professional introductions, and tips for evaluating social media presence. Additionally, it includes a curated list of performance opportunities and guidance on applying for grants and fellowships, ensuring artists can capitalize on every chance to connect with their audience.
AMW has created our very own Ultimate Music Submission Guide. In it, we detail the best ways to enter that contest you’ve always wanted to or submit to your favorite music festival. We’ll also make sure you’re organized enough to reap the full benefit of your labor. If you want to ensure that you’re putting your best foot forward, keep reading to find out how the Ultimate Music Submission Guide can help you.
Checklist of Materials
Even though most forms of submission are digital these days, there is still a list of materials that you should always have ready to go. AMW will help you to create a useful list of items and give you some tips and tricks on how to prepare them. Learn how to create the perfect biography and some simple tips on making a reel as part of your checklist preparation.
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Templates
Are you wondering how to put together a letter to submit with your materials? Or how to apply for a fellowship or a grant? AMW will show you how to put together a useful template so that you can introduce yourself in an effective way. Having a submission template ready to go that you can easily personalize will help you to appear more professional, even on short notice. It will also entail that you get out all of your pertinent information without forgetting anything.
Social Media Evaluation
It’s important to learn how to assess your own social media pages. Making sure that your social media profiles are updated with useful information regularly is crucial when you’re trying to engage with your fans.
The List
Once you’ve learned what an EPK is and how to build the perfect resume, we have included a list of opportunities for you to take your new skills out for a spin. Find the events on this list that are a good fit for you so you can start performing in front of the crowds’ you deserve. You should always be on the lookout for more opportunities to get to do what you love. With the list that accompanies our Ultimate Music Submission Guide, AMW gives you a leg up.
Conferences, Fellowships, and Awards
Making music costs money, so figuring out how to apply for grants and fellowships is in your favor. There are plenty of other musicians who have figured this out as well, which makes setting yourself apart critical.
There are so many different types of events that require an application to participate in. AMW will help you to get organized so that you never miss an opportunity to shine. The Guide is available for instant download for $97 in our products store.
Written by Laurel Daggers
Laurel Daggers is a content writer at AMW®, covering topics in marketing, entertainment, and brand strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can independent artists effectively promote their music?
Independent artists should build a strong social media presence, submit to playlist curators, create an electronic press kit, engage with music blogs and podcasts, collaborate with other artists, perform live regularly, and invest in targeted digital advertising. Consistency and authentic fan engagement are more important than large budgets.
What role does streaming play in modern music marketing?
Streaming platforms are now the primary music consumption channel, making playlist placement crucial for discovery. Artists should optimize profiles on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music, pitch to editorial playlists, leverage algorithmic recommendations through consistent releases, and use streaming analytics to understand their audience demographics.
How much does music promotion typically cost?
Music promotion costs range from $500-$2,000 for basic digital campaigns to $5,000-$15,000 for comprehensive PR campaigns with radio promotion and playlist pitching. Major label releases can spend $50,000 or more. Independent artists should start with focused investments in playlist promotion and social media advertising.
What makes an effective EPK for musicians?
An effective electronic press kit includes a compelling artist bio, high-quality press photos, links to music and videos, notable achievements and press coverage, social media statistics, contact information, and a one-sheet for quick media reference. Keep it concise, visually professional, and regularly updated with latest releases.
How long does it take to build a fanbase as a new artist?
Building a meaningful fanbase typically takes 1-3 years of consistent effort including regular releases, social media engagement, live performances, and strategic promotion. Some artists gain traction faster through viral moments, but sustainable careers are built through ongoing relationship-building with fans and industry connections.
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