How to get on the radio: the steps to broadcast your music over the airwaves
Are you wondering comment get on the radio with your music ? Whether you are artist independent, a member of a label or a manager, broadcasting radio remains a powerful tool to promote your project, expand your audience, and enhance your career credibility.
But to get airplay, having a good track isn't enough: you need to understand how radio stations work, identify the right contacts, and build a professional approach strategy.
👉 To get started: Submitting Your Music to Radio – Complete Guide
🎧 Step 1: Prepare a radio-ready track
First and foremost, your track must be technically and artistically ready to go on air. Here are the essential criteria:
Professional quality mix and master (WAV or MP3 320kbps)
Ideal length: between 2:30 and 3:30
Quick intro and catchy chorus
Polished cover art and a short biography
💡 Consider preparing an EPK (press kit) containing all these elements + streaming links, video clips, HD photos.
👉 To properly prepare your release: Releasing a Single – Promo & Communication Checklist
📬 Step 2: Identify suitable radio stations
Not all radio stations play the same genres. It's crucial to target:
Public service radio stations (Radio France, FIP, Mouv')
Local and regional radio stations
Specialised webradios (via RadioKing)
🎯 Choose those that share your music's aesthetic.
🤝 Step 3: Craft a persuasive contact message
A well-written professional email is your first contact with the programme director. It should include:
A brief introduction of the artist
The proposed track + listening link
Key elements (style, context, official release, potential buzz)
A link to your press kit or artist site
👉 Radio airplay request: our tips
🚀 Step 4: Highlight your performance or approach
Use this step as a highlight in your communication:
Instagram post: “We reached out to NRJ for airplay 🎧”
Behind-the-scenes story of the submission
Reels or TikTok creative on your radio-ready track
Article by blog or news on your site
📲 Also read: Promoting your music on Instagram
🎯 Need professional support?
At Beathoven, we help you structure your radio broadcast strategy:
Assistance in creating your press kit
Selection of target radio stations
Writing and sending pitches
Follow-up, reminders, and networking
How to Get on the Radio: A Guide for Artists
: Dreaming of hearing your music on the radio and reaching a wider audience? Our guide comprehensive guide on getting airplay is here to help you achieve this dream. Whether you're an emerging or established artist, these practical tips will help you maximise your chances of success in the industry music.
Why Get on the Radio?
Radio remains one of the most powerful ways to promote get your music heard and reach new listeners. Airplay can offer instant visibility and help you connect with a passionate music audience.
The Benefits of Being on the Radio
- Increase the visibility and recognition of your music.
- Opportunity to reach a wide audience of listeners through the airwaves.
- Validation of your talent and enhancement of your credibility as an artist.
How to Get on the Radio
Prepare Your Music: Ensure your music is of high quality and matches the format and style of the radio station you are targeting. Choose your best songs and make sure they are ready for broadcast.
Identify the Stations: Research to find radio stations that play your music genre. Whether local, national, or online, identify those with an audience that matches your music style.
Contact the Programmers: Find the contact details of programmers or music managers at each station you aim for. Send them a professional introduction to your music and explain why it deserves to be featured on their airwaves.
Promote your Music: Use social media and other online platforms to promote your music and create a buzz around yourself as an artist. The more visible and popular you are online, the better your chances of attracting the interest of radio programmers.
Track Your Requests: After contacting radio stations, ensure you track your requests and stay in touch with programmers. Be ready to provide information additional information or copies of your music if necessary.
Conclusion: Getting airplay can be a crucial part of your success as an artist. With the right efforts and a strategic approach, you can achieve this goal and see your music broadcast across the airwaves. Use the tips from this guide to maximise your chances of success and get your music known worldwide.
The values
of the Beathoven agency
Musical Innovation
Statistics
Innovation, collaboration, transparency, and musical excellence guide each of our notes,
All styles
Integrity
FAQ on Getting on the Radio:
Q: What types of music do radio stations typically play? A: Radio stations play a wide range of music genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop, electronic music, jazz, and more. It's important to research which stations best match your musical style.
Q: What is the best way to contact radio programmers? A: The best way to contact radio programmers is usually via email. Make sure to personalise your message for the station and include links to your music or website.
Q: How long does it typically take to get a response after submitting my music to a radio station? A: Response times can vary depending on the programmers' workload and each station's specific policy. It's recommended to be patient and regularly follow up on your submission.
Q: Should I submit my music to local or national radio stations? A: This depends on your goals and target audience. Submitting to local stations can be a great way to start and build a local fan base, while national stations offer wider reach but may be more competitive.
| 📜 Contracts & Partners | 🔗 Useful links |
|---|---|
| Understanding music contracts | Read the Beathoven article |
| Find a partner label | Top 30 Labels France |
| Protecting your musical works | Guide to protecting your music |
| Working with an artistic manager | Contact a manager |
| Music rights and status | Official SACEM website |
