It's crucial to grasp the evolving PR landscape. As Grant mentioned, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to PR, and it's not always about traditional media coverage. Define your PR goals, whether it's selling products, concert tickets, or raising awareness about your music, and tailor your approach accordingly.
Ryker highlighted the importance of creating relationships, suggesting artists "do their due diligence" and learn who cares about your music and engages with other artists in your genre. Make genuine connections with people - journalists, bloggers, and influencers - who resonate with your music. As Grant advised, outline exactly what you want from your publicist and ensure they genuinely appreciate your music.
Grant stressed the shift towards direct marketing with social ads and mailing lists, as articles in NPR and Stereogum may not have the impact they once did. Direct marketing allows you to connect directly with your audience, delivering personalized messages and promotions.
To evaluate the effectiveness of your PR efforts, measure the impact on your music's visibility and engagement. Analyze the results of your PR campaigns, as Grant pointed out, and track metrics such as increased press coverage and audience growth. By continuously monitoring and refining your PR strategies, you can adapt to the changing media landscape and optimize your music promotion.