Sonicbids helps artists connect with promoters through the many tools in their accounts. Many artists love the “Email my EPK” tool, which sends your EPK within an email (not as an attachment or separate link) to a recipient.

Keep in mind that promoters can get inundated with press kits (online and otherwise) from artists who’ve done little or no research about who they’re sending to or what the gig is. This kind of artist is a huge drain on a promoter’s time and resources, because such artists all have to be reviewed and are often totally inappropriate for the gig. Trust us: You don’t want promoters to be in that group. Make it easy for promoters to tell immediately that you’re professional and genuinely a good choice for them.

Here are just a few important things to find out about any gig before you email your EPK:

• Does the venue or promoter have a Web site?

• Is there a specific person you should send it to?

• What types of music or performance are they looking for?

• What is their press kit or submissions policy, and do you fit the bill?

When it comes to research, the more you know, the better. You never know when you might uncover some small nugget of information that helps you understand how to more effectively market yourself, how to stand out from the pack, or simply that the gig isn’t right for you after all.

Once you’ve done your research, use the Email My EPK Out Now tool in your account, where you can include a personalized introduction to your EPK. Let them know what you found out about them. Example: “I was looking through your Web site and other events, and thought I’d be a great fit.” If you’ve played in the venue or area already, remind them of it; tell what you enjoy about playing there; talk about what kind of crowd you expect to get the next time you play. Be specific about what you’re looking for: “I’ve played Tuesday nights and brought in 200 people. I think I’m ready to play a Friday.”

Like every part of your EPK, your contact with a promoter should be interesting. Give them a good (but brief) story about you or your band. Ask questions about their review process, and let them know you’ll follow up soon. A sincere phone call a week or two later shouldn’t scare off any potential promoters as long as you remain straightforward about what it is you’re looking for. This holds true for artists at any level of their career. Happy gigging.

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