10 Best Music Blogs to Submit Your Music: How to Submit Music to Music Bloggers
In an era where music discovery largely happens online, getting featured on music blogs is a golden opportunity for emerging artists to gain visibility and credibility. With a plethora of new music blogs and indie music blogs constantly scouring the internet for fresh sounds, submitting your music to these platforms has become a key strategy in a musician’s promotion arsenal. The significance of music blogs in the landscape of the music industry cannot be understated, acting not only as gatekeepers to new music trends but also as bridges connecting indie artists with music industry professionals and a wider audience.
This article breaks down the top 10 music blogs to submit to, offering insightful tips on how to get your music featured. From understanding the importance of reading the blog and personalizing your submission, to crafting a compelling pitch and utilizing social media effectively, each section is designed to guide you through the submission process. By following these strategies, such as providing easy access to your music and following up professionally, artists can increase their chances of catching the attention of music bloggers and securing a spot on some of the best indie music blogs. Whether you’re looking for free music blog submission opportunities or considering paid services, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the submission process with confidence and efficiency.
In this free indie musician guide, we’ll walk you through the basic practices and strategies for submitting your music to top music blogs and promote their music. But first, here’s a list of the top 10 music blogs that accept submissions from indie artists as of early August 2024:
10 Best Music Blogs to Submit Your Music & Get Your Music Heard
- Pitchfork
- Known for in-depth reviews and features on both mainstream and indie artists.
- Submission Page
- Stereogum
- Covers a wide range of genres and is highly regarded in the indie music community.
- Submission Page
- Consequence of Sound
- Offers news, reviews, and festival coverage, with a strong focus on indie music.
- Submission Page
- Indie Shuffle
- Focuses on indie, alternative, and electronic music with user-generated playlists.
- Submission Page
- The Line of Best Fit
- UK-based blog covering the latest in indie music with in-depth articles and reviews.
- Submission Page
- Pigeons & Planes
- Part of the Complex network, known for discovering and promoting new talent.
- Submission Page
- Indie Underground
- Focuses on new and emerging indie artists across various genres.
- Submission Page
- Hype Machine
- Aggregates content from various music blogs, allowing indie artists to gain visibility.
- Submission Page
- Allov Club (Pronounced All Love)
- Known for its unique and eclectic taste in music, belief in NFT music, and strong visual aesthetic.
- Submission Page
- We All Want Someone to Shout For
- Covers indie rock, folk, electronic, and more with a focus on discovering new talent.
- Submission: N/A – check their linkinbio on social media.
These blogs are highly regarded in the indie music scene and provide excellent platforms for indie artists to gain exposure.
Key Takeaways: Tips for Submitting Your Music to Bloggers
- Do Your Homework: Read each blog’s submission guidelines carefully. Tailor your pitch to fit their style and audience.
- Create a Killer EPK: Your Electronic Press Kit should include a bio, high-quality photos, social media links, and most importantly, your music. Make it easy for bloggers to find everything they need.
- Personalize Your Pitch: Address the recipient by name and mention what you like about their blog. Show that you’ve spent time getting to know their work.
- Keep It Short and Sweet: Bloggers receive tons of submissions. Keep your pitch concise and to the point.
- Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back after a couple of weeks, a polite follow-up email can help keep your submission on their radar.
- Leverage Social Media: If the blog doesn’t have a clear submission page, check their social media for submission details or DM them directly.
Submitting your music to these top blogs can help you gain the exposure you’re looking for. Good luck with your submissions, and keep making great music!
Research Blog Content Starting with Music Genre
To enhance the likelihood of your music being featured, delve into the content of the blog. Start by examining past reviews and featured artists to understand the types of music the blog prefers. This initial step ensures your music aligns with their taste, increasing the chance of a positive response when you submit your music to music blogs. [1].
Understand Blog Style Before Your submit Your Music to Blogs
Personalizing your approach can significantly impact the reception of your submission. Familiarize yourself with the blog’s unique style and editorial voice. Mention specific articles or reviews during your pitch to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of their content [1] [2].
Identify Target Audience: Example Indie Shuffle, Indie Rock, Rap, EDM?
Knowing the blog’s target audience can refine your pitch further. If your music matches the preferences of the blog’s readership, mention this alignment in your submission. Tailoring your message to fit the blog’s audience demonstrates not only respect but also strategic thinking, which is often appreciated by blog curators [3].
Personalize Your Music Submission
To effectively personalize your submission to music blogs, follow these strategic steps:
Use Editor’s Name
Addressing the editor by name not only showcases good manners but also professionalism. It demonstrates that you have taken the time to research and understand the preferences of the editor, which can significantly enhance the likelihood of your music being considered [4].
Reference Previous Articles
Mention specific articles or artists previously featured on the blog that relate to your music style. This approach shows that you have a genuine interest in the blog and that your music aligns with their editorial content, potentially increasing the relevance of your submission to music blogs you want. [5].
Explain Music Fit
Clearly articulate why your music fits the blog’s theme or the tastes of its audience. Highlight any similarities with artists or styles they have previously showcased. This not only respects the blog’s niche but also positions your music as a valuable addition to their content [5].
Be Clear About Your Request
Keep Email Concise
Artists should aim for brevity in their submissions, focusing on delivering all necessary details without overloading the curator with information. A concise, well-crafted email should include a compelling hook and a brief description of the music, avoiding lengthy introductions and unnecessary details [6].
Include Relevant Links
Providing direct and accessible links within the submission email is crucial. Artists should include streaming and download links that are relevant to the platform they are reaching out to. This not only saves time for the curator but also increases the chances of the music being listened to and featured [7] [8].
State Specific Ask
It is essential for artists to be clear about their requests when reaching out to music blogs. Rather than vague statements, artists should specify whether they are seeking a review, feature, or playlist inclusion. This direct approach helps curators immediately understand the artist’s goal and assess the relevance of the submission to their platform [8].
Showcase Your Notable Success in The Music Industry
Show off your awesome success in the music industry by submitting your music to blogs that accept music submissions! Get your music reviewed and showcased to music lovers everywhere. Whether you’re into dance music or indie tunes, there’s an online music publication based rockin’ out to your jams. Start submitting your music to reputable music blogs and take your music career to the next level. Look for curated lists of influential music blogs like Music Ninja or Sidekick Music to get your music heard. Don’t wait until 2025, you already missed 2023, so start NOW!
Follow Submission Guidelines
Adhere to Format Requirements
To ensure your music reaches the right ears, strictly follow the formatting guidelines provided by music blogs. Tag all songs according to the suggested Metadata Standards and avoid attaching audio files directly to emails when you submit your music to music blogs. Instead, place your songs in a properly labeled folder, compress it into a .zip file, and use services like Hightail or WeTransfer to create a downloadable link [9].
Provide Requested Information
Include all necessary metadata in your digital music submissions. This should encompass the song name with any featured artists, the artist’s details, ownership percentages, and contact information for licensing. If the song is public domain, indicate this clearly in the metadata to avoid any confusion [9].
Respect Deadlines
Understanding and respecting the timeline of music blogs is crucial. Allow ample lead time when submitting your music as most record labels and blogs schedule their content well in advance. Expect the review process to potentially take up to a year from the initial submission to the final release day [10].
Craft a Compelling Pitch + Email Template
Email Template for Pitching Your Music to Bloggers
Subject: Introducing [Your Band/Artist Name] – New Single “[Song Name]”
Hi [Blogger’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Genre] artist from [Your City/Country]. I’ve been following [Blog Name] for a while and really admire your knack for discovering fresh and unique sounds. I’m reaching out to introduce my newest single, “[Song Name]”, which I believe fits perfectly with the kind of music you feature.
About Me:
I’ve been creating music for [Time Period], with influences ranging from [Influence 1] to [Influence 2]. My sound blends [Genre 1] and [Genre 2], creating a distinctive style that [insert a brief, engaging description of your music].
The Single – “[Song Name]”:
“[Song Name]” is a track that delves into [brief description here—e.g., “themes of heartbreak and resilience, with soaring melodies and poignant lyrics”]. It’s a personal piece that I’m excited to share with you and your readers.
Electronic Press Kit (EPK):
I’ve included an EPK with all the details, but here are some quick links:
- Listen to “[Song Name]” on [Streaming Platform]: [Link]
- Press Photos: [Link to Dropbox or Google Drive folder]
- Social Media: [Instagram], [Twitter], [Facebook] profiles for more content and updates.
Why [Blog Name]:
I’ve noticed your recent feature on [similar artist/band], and I believe “[Song Name]” would resonate well with your audience due to its [specific aspect that aligns with the blog’s content].
Thank you for taking the time to read and listen. I’d be thrilled to see my music featured on [Blog Name], and I’m open to interviews, guest posts, or providing any additional info you might need.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on where to submit their music!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Band/Artist Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Contact Number]
Attachment: Electronic Press Kit (EPK)
Highlight Unique Aspects
When crafting your pitch, it’s crucial to emphasize what makes your music unique. Avoid generic descriptors like “melodic” or “unique”; instead, find the nugget that describes the emotion your music evokes. Explain how your music will make the listener feel, whether it’s urging them to dance, inspiring a reflective mood, or energizing them for a workout. This emotional connection can make your pitch stand out and resonate more with music bloggers [11].
Share Interesting Backstory
Incorporate storytelling into your pitch by sharing the inspiration behind your music or any interesting personal experiences that influence your songs. This not only adds depth to your music but also creates a personal connection with the listener. Whether it’s a journey through personal challenges or a celebration of significant achievements, let your backstory engage and inspire. Remember, authenticity is key; don’t fabricate elements just to appeal to a broader audience. Instead, focus on genuine experiences that reflect your artistic identity [12].
Demonstrate Genre Fit
To effectively demonstrate how your music fits the blog’s existing content, provide examples of similar artists without resorting to comparing yourself to major household names, when you submit your music to music blogs. Use more refined and niche references that align with the blog’s style and audience preferences. This approach helps the blogger visualize where your music fits within their platform and enhances the relevance of your submission. It’s also beneficial to articulate how your music complements or adds a new dimension to the genres the blog typically features [11].
Provide an EASY Way to Get Your Music
To boost the chances of your music getting featured on top music blogs, it’s essential to provide easy access to your tracks. This approach not only facilitates the review process for bloggers but also demonstrates professionalism and respect for their time.
Include Streaming Links When You Submit Music to Blogs
Ensure that each submission includes links to streaming platforms where your music is available. This makes it straightforward for bloggers to listen to your tracks without the need for downloads, increasing the likelihood of immediate engagement.
Offer Download Options
While streaming is convenient, providing downloadable options is also crucial. High-quality MP3 or WAV files allow bloggers to experience the best audio fidelity, which is particularly important if they decide to feature your music in podcasts or video content.
Attach Press Kit
Including a well-organized press kit with your submission can significantly enhance your professionalism, especially when you submit your music to music blogs. Your press kit should contain high-resolution images, a biography, and any notable press releases or achievements. This consolidated information packet supports bloggers in crafting a more compelling and informed feature about your music.
Follow Up Professionally
Set Reminder for Follow-Up
To ensure timely follow-ups, artists should consider setting reminders. A reasonable timeframe for the first follow-up is typically 10 days after the initial submission [13]. If no response is received, monthly reminders are a balanced approach, maintaining interest without becoming intrusive [14].
Be Polite and Patient
When following up, it’s crucial to remain polite and patient. Express continued interest in the opportunity and offer to provide additional tracks if needed, demonstrating flexibility and eagerness to collaborate [15]. Avoid being pushy or negative as it can harm potential relationships with music blogs [15].
Offer Additional Information
Providing additional information can be beneficial. In your follow-up, ask for feedback on your demo and express willingness to supply more details if required [14]. This not only shows professionalism but also helps in building a constructive dialog with music industry professionals.
Utilize Social Media
Engage with Blog’s Social Accounts
To effectively utilize social media in your music promotion strategy, start by engaging with the social accounts of your target music blogs. Liking, commenting, and sharing their posts demonstrates your interest and helps establish a visible presence in their online community [16].
Share Blog’s Content
Sharing content from music blogs not only shows appreciation for their work but also increases your visibility to the blog’s followers and helps promote their music. This reciprocal action can foster goodwill and keep you on the radar of blog editors [16].
Build Relationship Before Pitching
Before making a direct pitch, focus on building a relationship with music bloggers through social media. Engage in meaningful interactions by commenting on posts and participating in discussions. This approach helps create a rapport and makes your subsequent pitch more likely to be received positively [16].
Consider Paid Submission Services
Evaluate SubmitHub Options
SubmitHub simplifies the music submission process by offering a user-friendly platform where artists can submit their tracks to labels and blogs. This service provides a structured way to increase the chances of getting feedback or being featured. Artists can use standard credits for free submissions, which are limited to two every four hours, but the feedback rate is lower with this option. For more effective results, premium credits, costing between $6 to $80, incentivize bloggers to respond within 48 hours or provide detailed feedback, with a refund if these conditions are not met [17].
Explore Other Submission Platforms
LabelRadar offers an innovative approach by allowing artists to upload demos and highlight a 20-second clip that best represents their track. This can be submitted to a public pool for all labels and promoters or sent privately to a chosen entity. The platform facilitates direct communication between artists and interested parties, enhancing efficiency and engagement. Additionally, real-time notifications inform artists when their demo is reviewed, eliminating the uncertainty often associated with music submissions [18].
Should You Buy a List of Music Blogs to Submit Music Yourself?
So, you’re thinking about trying to get your music heard by the right audience and you’re considering whether you should buy a list of music blogs to submit music yourself? Well, let me give you some advice.
The power of music blogs in 2023 is undeniable. They can be a great way to promote your music and get it out there to a wider audience. Whether you’re an indie artist looking to get your music heard or a music news site that accepts music submissions, there are many music blogs that can help you achieve your goals. From indie music blogs like eq music blog to blogs that feature an indie music filter, there are plenty of options out there for artists and their music.
Instead of buying a list of blogs, why not take the time to do some research and find the blogs you want to submit to yourself? Look for blogs that align with your music style and audience, whether that’s an indie music station or an online radio station. When you submit your music to a music blog, you want to make sure that the blog is a good fit for your music and that it has the potential to reach the right audience.
So, should you buy a list of music blogs to submit your music? In my opinion, it can better to do the work yourself and find the blogs you want to submit to. Both ways, you can be sure that your music is being heard by the right people and that you’re not just wasting your time and money on a list that may not even be up-to-date. Don’t underestimate the power of music blogs in helping you promote your music and connect with new fans. So go out there and start submitting your music to the blogs that matter to you!
Weigh Costs and Benefits
While paid submission services can accelerate the exposure process, they also come with costs. It’s crucial for artists to consider whether the potential benefits of music blogs you want justify the expense. For instance, platforms like SubmitHub offer structured feedback and refund options, making them a valuable tool for artists seeking constructive criticism and exposure. On the other hand, services that require payment for submissions need to be evaluated for their effectiveness in promoting music and not just increasing play counts without meaningful engagement [19].
Don’t Give Up
Understand Typical Response Rates
In the realm of music submissions, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations. On average, most music blogs review only 3 to 5% of the music they receive. Therefore, if you’ve sent out a hundred emails, securing reviews from at least three music blogs would align with industry norms [1].
Continue Improving Your Pitch
Persistence is key when engaging with music blogs. If your initial submissions don’t yield responses, consider refining your pitch. Ensure your emails are devoid of errors and that all links to your music and social media are functional. Tailoring each email to the specific blogger can significantly enhance your chances of standing out and being noticed [20].
Keep Creating and Submitting
Don’t be discouraged by non-responses or slow feedback. Many bloggers are inundated with submissions and may take time to catch up. Following up after a reasonable period shows your dedication and can keep your music in consideration. Keep honing your craft and continue submitting your work to various platforms, adjusting your approach based on feedback and experiences [1].
Conclusion: Submit to Music Blogs
Navigating the music blog submission landscape is an essential, yet nuanced, task for emerging artists seeking visibility and engagement. Through diligent research, personalized outreach, and adherence to submission guidelines, artists can significantly enhance their chances of featuring on renowned music blogs. The importance of crafting a clear, concise pitch, providing easy access to music, and engaging with blogs on social media, underscores a strategic approach to music promotion. By leveraging these insights, musicians can not only secure spots on influential platforms but also foster relationships with industry gatekeepers and broaden their audience base.
The road to getting your music featured on top blogs is paved with persistence, professionalism, and a commitment to quality. Offering a press kit, following up professionally, and considering the strategic use of paid submission services are all crucial steps in this journey. Furthermore, the cultivation of genuine relationships with bloggers, understanding the typical response rates, and continuously refining your pitch based on feedback, are foundational to achieving success. As artists navigate this process, it’s imperative to remain clear, focused, and action-oriented, ensuring that every step taken is geared towards meaningful engagement and the ultimate goal of getting their music heard by a wider audience.
Q: What are the best music blogs to submit your music to?
A: Some popular music blogs that accept music submissions include Music Ninja, Apple Music, Indie Music Blog, and Creative Indie Music Goodness.
Q: How can I increase my chances of getting featured on music blogs?
A: To increase your chances of getting featured on music blogs, make sure to highlight what makes your music unique, submit your songs following the guidelines provided by the blogs you like, and create high-quality electronic music.
Q: Can you provide a pitch template for submitting music to blogs?
A: When submitting your music to blogs, make sure to introduce yourself briefly, provide a link to your music, mention any notable achievements, and explain why you think your music would be a good fit for their platform.
Q: What should I include in my music submission to a blog?
A: In your music submission to a blog, include a brief introduction about yourself, a link to your music, any previous features or achievements, and a personalized message explaining why you think your music would resonate with their audience.
Q: How long does it usually take for music bloggers to respond to submissions?
A: The response time for music bloggers varies, but most aim to respond within a few weeks. It’s important to be patient and follow up politely if you don’t hear back within a reasonable timeframe.
Q: What should I do if my music submission gets rejected by a blog?
A: If your music submission gets rejected by a blog, don’t get discouraged. Take the feedback constructively, continue submitting to other blogs, and keep refining your pitch and music to increase your chances of acceptance.
Q: Are there specific genres that music blogs prefer to feature?
A: While preferences vary, many music blogs feature indie music, trendy electronic music, and home-grown music. It’s essential to research the blog’s content and audience to understand what genres they typically showcase.
References: List of Blogs
[1] – https://twostorymelody.com/how-to-submit-to-music-blogs/
[2] – https://blog.groover.co/en/tips/promote-your-project/best-music-submission-strategies-en/
[3] – https://www.loopcloud.com/cloud/blog/4610-A-Producers-Guide-to-Defining-your-Music-s-Audience
[4] – https://www.underdown.org/editors-names.htm
[5] – https://harmattanrain.com/how-to-email-music-blogs/
[6] – https://www.submithub.com/story/how-to-write-a-quick-pitch-tips-for-submitting-your-song
[7] – https://audiohype.io/resources/music-submission/
[8] – https://twostorymelody.com/how-to-email-music-blogs-to-actually-get-covered/
[9] – https://www.supetroop.com/faq/music-submission-guidelines/
[10] – https://www.otherrecordlabels.com/how-to-submit-your-music-to-record-labels
[11] – https://www.modern-musician.com/blog/how-to-pitch-your-music-to-blogs-and-magazines-diy-pr
[12] – https://blog.groover.co/en/tips/storytelling-music/
[13] – https://blog.sonicbids.com/how-to-send-a-killer-email-to-anyone-in-the-music-industry
[14] – https://www.liveabout.com/follow-up-on-your-demo-2460436
[15] – https://musiclibraryreport.com/forums/topic/follow-up-email-after-submitting-to-new-lib/
[16] – https://dittomusic.com/en/blog/music-blogs-that-want-your-music
[17] – https://cymatics.fm/blogs/production/13-places-to-submit-your-music
[18] – https://www.labelradar.com/
[19] – https://thatdrop.com/paid-submissions-cost-of-business-or-ripoff/
[20] – https://www.one-submit.com/post/how-to-submit-your-music-to-music-blogs