Getting your song played on the radio can significantly boost your exposure, grow your fanbase, and open doors in the music industry. While the process might seem challenging, with the right strategy, preparation, and persistence, you can get your track heard by a broader audience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get your song on the radio:
1. Create a High-Quality Track
Before you even think about radio promotion, ensure your song is professionally produced, mixed, and mastered. Radio stations prioritize high-quality music that can compete with mainstream releases.
Tips:
Invest in professional production.
Focus on strong vocals, catchy hooks, and clean sound.
Keep your track within standard radio-friendly length (around 3-4 minutes).
2. Identify the Right Radio Stations
Not all stations are the same. Research to find radio stations that align with your genre, target audience, and promotional goals.
Types of stations to consider:
Mainstream FM/AM Stations (more competitive, often require label support)
College and Community Radio (great for indie artists)
Online and Internet Radio (more accessible and genre-diverse)
Local Stations (good starting point for regional exposure)
3. Build an EPK (Electronic Press Kit)
Your EPK is your artist resume and should include everything radio programmers need to consider your song for airplay.
Include:
A short bio
Press photos
Links to your music
Song details (title, genre, length, explicit/clean)
Social media links
Press coverage or reviews (if any)
4. Get Your Song Radio-Ready
Many stations only accept radio edits—clean versions of songs with no profanity and with proper intros/outros.
Make sure your song:
Is a clean edit (no explicit content)
Includes a 2-3 second intro
Meets broadcast standards (44.1kHz, 16-bit .WAV or .MP3)
5. Hire a Radio Promoter or DIY
A radio promoter has established relationships with station managers and DJs and can get your song to the right people. If you can't afford one, you can still promote independently.
DIY Steps:
Create a pitch email with your EPK
Personalize each email to the specific station or DJ
Include why your song is a good fit
Follow up politely after a week
6. Register Your Music Properly
Make sure your song is registered with your country’s performance rights organization (e.g., ASCAP, BMI, PRS, etc.) to receive royalties when your song is played.
7. Network with DJs and Music Directors
Relationships matter. Attend industry events, connect on social media, and build genuine relationships with radio professionals. Sometimes, a simple introduction can get your song listened to.
8. Promote the Airplay
Once your song is played, promote it! Share the airplay news on social media, tag the station, and thank the DJ. This helps build a rapport and shows your growing reach.
9. Keep Pushing and Be Consistent
Most artists don’t succeed on the first try. Submit new music regularly, improve your craft, and stay persistent. Building a presence on radio takes time and effort.
Final Thoughts
Getting on the radio is about more than just a good song—it’s about strategy, relationships, and persistence. By understanding the radio landscape and presenting yourself professionally, you increase your chances of making it onto the airwaves. Start local, think big, and stay focused on your goals.