It’s hard for an artist to get their music played these days. This is partly because the market has become saturated because of the democratization in the music industry. There are ways to make yourself known in a business that is becoming more competitive. You can submit your music to blogs.
Are blog submissions even worth it
If you’re wondering why we wrote an article about this topic, it’s because there is some doubt that music marketing in 2023 will be viable. We can say that blog submissions still work but are a gamble. You are betting on the possibility that another will help promote your music. However, there are many ways you can enable it by yourself.
Music blogs are no longer as popular. Today, social media and streaming platforms are the most famous music discovery platforms. Algorithms suggest new music to the listener, and paid promotions on Instagram and Facebook are the most effective advertising methods.
Independent music blogs aren’t just a bunch of snobs. You’ll find a dedicated readership who will listen to your music. You are exposed to a large audience that you would not otherwise be able to reach directly. Don’t just rely on blogs as your sole marketing strategy. You should submit to them, but not exclusively. Be aware that even small independent publications are flooded with submissions. Don’t let rejections, whether silent or not, affect your value as an artist.
Music Blog Submission Guidelines
You should treat blog posts like job application. It would help if you balanced professionalism and personality to avoid getting lost amongst a pile of resumes. Here are some general tips to remember:
You must submit to the correct blog(s). Please do your research to make sure that they accept your genre.
Address a specific individual in your pitch if you can. This makes your pitch more personal and shows that you are not spamming masses of submissions. Keep your pitch as brief as possible.
Blogs are always looking for new songs or previously unreleased tracks. Do not submit an album you recorded three years ago.
Send direct links to music, not MP3 or WAV attachments. Send links that don’t require anyone to download an application or create an account. Soundcloud works well.
Please include your EPK with the submission.
Top Music Blogs You Can Submit Your Submissions To
Here is a list of the top 10 music blogs to which you can submit your work. We have tried to include music blogs in every genre. So, no matter what style you play, we’re sure you can find at least one of these blogs.
EarmilkEarmilk is a publication that has existed for more than ten years. The journal accepts submissions of all genres but focuses primarily on indie, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.
A&R Factory
The UK’s A&R Factory provides a platform where industry professionals can discover new talent. The readership comprises labels, managers, publishers, and other industry professionals who use the website to find and sign contemporary artists. All genres of music are welcome.
Cougar Microbes
Cougar Microbes, a London-based band, debuts British and International music in various genres. They have contributors from around the globe.
Indie Shuffle
SubmitHub’s CEO, an aggregator, founds Indie Shuffle. SubmitHub will send music for a fee to blogs, industry professionals, and influencers. Specific blogs only accept submissions through SubmitHub. Payola is a part of our world, regardless of its ethics.
Indie Shuffle is a music promotion company that promotes all genres but focuses on electronic, hip-hop, and indie rock.
Pigeons & Planes
Pigeons & Planes, a part of Complex’s network, focuses on pop music and hip-hop. It is primarily a pop, hip-hop, and electronic station, but they occasionally feature artists from other genres.
Hot New Hip Hop
HNHH allows fans of hip-hop and rap music to discover new music. Submissions are open but highly competitive. The team selects two weekly songs to be featured on Saturday and Sunday’s websites.
Stoney Roads
Stoney Roads, Australia’s leading source for EDM music and news, is the place to go if you want to discover new music. Submissions are accepted in-house, techno, and electro.
Louder Than War
Louder Than War, a blog based in Manchester, is dedicated to punk, garage, and alternative music. LTW was founded in 2010 and is punk rock at its core.
Gear Gods
As the name suggests, the Gear Gods blog focuses primarily on new music equipment, especially as it is relevant to hard rock/metal/progressive guitarists. The blog features a lot of up-and-coming bands that submit their music videos.
The FADER
It’s harder to submit music to The FADER because they are the most prominent blog on this list. The FADER has a vast audience but is a low-risk/high-reward submission. The FADER offers music from many different genres.