How to Write a Killer Press Release for Your Music

Let’s face it — writing a press release can feel like the least rock ‘n’ roll part of being a musician. But if you want your next single, album, or tour to get noticed by blogs, playlists, or even that one music editor who’s too cool to reply to emails, you need one.

Not just any press release, though. You need one that slaps harder than your hook, gets read past the subject line, and actually convinces someone to care.

Here’s how to write a killer music press release that gets results — no fluff, no PR jargon, just pure, click-worthy strategy.

Step 1: Know Your Goal (Because “Going Viral” Isn’t One)

Before you write a single word, ask yourself:

Are you promoting a new single, EP, or album?
Is this about a tour announcement?
Did you just sign a label deal or land a sync placement?

Your goal defines your angle. If you don’t know what the story is, no one else will. Include keywords like “new single,” “music video release,” or “upcoming tour” right away — press releases can rank too!

The Headline Should Slap (Think Blog-Worthy, Not Boring)

No one wants to read:

“Emerging Artist Drops New Single”

Zzz. Try:

"L.A. Alt-Pop Artist Turns Teenage Angst Into a Power Anthem on ‘School’s Out’"

Make it punchy, visual, and specific. If your headline wouldn’t catch attention on a music blog, it won’t work here either.

Step 3: Nail the Opening Paragraph

This is where most artists lose the reader. Your first paragraph needs to answer:

Who you are
What you're releasing
When it's happening
Why anyone should care

Example:

Toronto-born R&B artist Summer Robs unleashes her fierce debut single “Gucci Body” on March 14 — a sultry, self-empowering anthem blending 2000s pop with trap-heavy beats, inspired by icons like Aaliyah and Britney Spears.

Boom. Clean, clear, and interesting.

Step 4: Add Context That Builds the Story

Now that they’re hooked, give them the “why it matters” stuff:

What inspired the track?
Is it part of a larger project or narrative?
Any notable producers, collaborators, or studios involved?
Are there key lyrics or sonic influences that make this unique?

Don’t ramble — but do invite people into your world. A press release should read like a compelling article-in-the-making, not a self-promo flyer.

Step 5: Include Key Assets (Don’t Make Them Chase You)

Every press release should include:

A link to stream the track (SoundCloud, Spotify, YouTube)
A downloadable press photo (hi-res, clear, ideally vertical + horizontal options)
Socials and official website/EPK link
Optional: music video link, live performance clips, quote from the artist

Put these near the bottom, in a clear “Press Assets” or “Media Links” section.

Step 6: End With the “About” Paragraph

This is your mini bio. Keep it tight — 3–4 lines max:

Where you’re from
Your genre/sound
A couple career highlights
Any major influences

Example:

Summer Robs is a Canadian pop artist blending R&B grit with mainstream pop confidence. Hailing from Toronto’s Malvern community, she draws inspiration from icons like Monica, Brandy, and Britney Spears. Gucci Body marks her official debut after completing two graduate degrees and committing full-time to her music career.

Bonus SEO Tips (For Real Visibility)

Use keywords like "music press release," "new music release," and your genre in your title and first paragraph
Add ALT text to any images if you’re posting on a blog
Include the artist name and song title throughout the body
Post your press release on your website, music blog, and LinkedIn (yes, really — LinkedIn ranks high!)

You don’t need to sound corporate. You just need to sound clear. Whether you're pitching to music blogs, playlists, booking agents, or media outlets, this is how you make your music press-ready.