Definition of a DJ Press Kit
An Electronic Press Kit, or EPK, is a digital portfolio for artists. Most often appearing in the form of a website, PDF file, or e-mail. The term "press kit" refers to a set of materials packaged together as part of a promotional strategy. Others use the term "media kit" for any marketing materials distributed to a media outlet. First introduced in 1995, it soon became a music industry standard. Today it is the single best way for DJs, bands, & other solo artists to make a strong first impression.
Jump to Section
Why Does Every Artist Need an EPK?
The primary benefit of an EPK is that it allows full control over every first impression. It will define the value of the artist, and visualize how the music feels. When done well, this is a signal of professionalism. Showing that the artist is ready to do business with an event organizer. Plus, having all the relevant information on one page is a huge time-saver. Contacting any promoter, venue, or journalist can be a long process. So artists also use their EPKs to answer questions during the outreach phase. Often adjusting the content to align with different booking opportunities. This makes a quality press kit vital for any artist who is serious about their career.
What Does a DJ Press Kit Include?
An Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is like a resume - you can't get a job without one. The difference is that you are sending the EPK to a promoter, not a hiring manager. Meaning it needs to showcase the brand, music, and story in a clear & creative way.
The Required Elements of an EPK:
An EPK covers the who, what, when, where, and why of your music. Clear visuals and concise text will tell the story. To accomplish this, every EPK should include:
Artist Bio
A 1-3 paragraph summary of the artist's story. Detailing their history, style, and notable achievements.
Press Photos
High-quality images that capture the look & feel of a brand. These can be live or posed shots.
Logo & Brand Elements
The artist's logo, symbols, and other graphics that make the EPK cohesive.
Music Links
Quick access to new tracks and performance videos. These can be short clips on social media, or longer videos on YouTube.
Social Media & Streaming Platform Links
Direct links to artist profiles on key platforms. The most popular include Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, and SoundCloud.
Contact Information
The best email address to contact, with the option to add a phone number.
Optional Ideas to Make Your EPK Stand Out:
Adding unusual features to the Press Kit can make it more memorable, or help to showcase more of the brand. Use one or a combination of the following ideas to add a personal touch:
Press Quotes
Short excerpts from reputable sources can add credibility to the brand.
Video Embed
Clips from live footage or social media are stronger than an image.
Introduction Video
A personal video message from the artist sharing their story.
Upcoming Dates
A list of future appearances shows that the artist is in demand.
Release Artwork
Cover art or visuals from music releases can highlight the aesthetic.
Statistics
Highlights of follower growth or streaming numbers act as social proof.
Notable Collaborations
A list of well-known artists or brands can add credibility.
Technical Rider
If unique equipment is necessary to the performance, note this in the EPK.
How to Make an EPK for Any Artist
An EPK should reflect the artist’s brand identity. It needs to be visually appealing and easy to navigate. This means that the format, photos, color palette, and bio must align with the project’s vision. A well-crafted EPK will look like a piece of digital art.
Examples of Professional EPKs
2-3
Different Types of Electronic Press Kits
The 3 different Electronic Press Kits that appear in the music industry are: The DJ EPK, the Band EPK, and the Event press kit.
A DJ EPK, or any solo artist EPK, focuses on the individual. It is simple to organize on one page, highlighting the personal story behind the project.
A Band EPK follows the same strategies as any Group Press Kit. Focused on their collective identity and achievements, telling a larger story.
Event Press Kits are specific to in-house event communications. Providing details about the lineup, media, schedules, & more to different teams.
Who to Send an EPK to
Artists will need to send their EPK to a variety of key contacts in the music industry. This includes promoters, booking agents, and venues to secure gigs. As well as festival organizers and businesses for other performance opportunities.
Journalists, record labels, and managers will always find a Press Kit helpful. While graphic designers need one to understand the brand aesthetic.
Best Practices for Sharing Your EPK
Keep it Short
Write a concise email. Do not repeat information in the email that is already covered in the EPK. This saves time and is a sign of respect. Let the press kit do the heavy lifting.
Personalize the Outreach Email
Customize the message for each contact. Mention an event, venue, or specific artist they have worked with in the past. This shows the artist has done genuine research.
Provide an Outbound Link
Always include a clickable link to the EPK. Make sure it is easy to find in the email, making it simple for the recipient to access information.
Highlight Why The Artist Will Fit Their Event
Explain why this project is a good match for their event or venue. Mention similar acts they have booked in the past or how the music aligns with their audience. This adds context to the outreach email.
Request a Specific Date
Be clear about artist availability. Suggest a specific date range or event to perform at. This helps the recipient assess the proposal faster.
Follow Up With Respect
If they do not reply, send a polite follow-up. Wait 5-7 days before reaching out again, restate interest, and include an EPK link.
The Best Way to Make a DJ EPK (for Free)
Creating a professional-looking EPK is essential for any artist trying to earn gigs. The best way to create a DJ EPK for free is by using Canva. It is an easy-to-use browser app that requires zero graphic design experience.
Why Canva is the Best EPK Builder
Canva's template selection prevents the need to start from scratch. Any page can be customized to match the visual identity of the artist. Upload your own files, or search the Canva library for free images, icons, and other design assets. Plus, this platform supports exporting as a PDF file with clickable links.
The Problem with EPK Websites
Many websites designed for creating EPKs are hard to use, and don't provide any control. Often using fixed templates that heavily limit creativity. As a result, editing these templates can be tricky and force the artist to compromise. This leads to a Press Kit that looks messy and uninspired. Additionally, most of these platforms do not support both mobile and desktop formats. It only looks good on one or the other. To avoid looking like a beginner, design your own EPK.
EPK Design Best Practices
Mobile-Friendly
Ensure that the EPK is easy to view on desktop and mobile devices. This is crucial because people can open emails on their phone, tablet, or desktop. Leading to varying aspect ratios.
Clear Structure
While Canva offers many design elements, make sure to design a layout that is easy to navigate. Use headings, bullet points, and consistent spacing.
Include Outbound Links
Link directly to music, social media pages, performance footage, and more. Use anchor text to showcase the best way for the recipient to explore the artist.]
Brand Alignment
Make sure the EPK matches the visual identity of the brand. Use the same color palette, fonts, and imagery that are present in the artist's digital media.
Examples of Well-Written EPK Bios
Beginner DJs and producers often write their own bios. But professionals hire a specialist to craft a unique excerpt for their EPK. These examples will show how styles vary based on the artist's brand and audience.
Example Artist Bio #1 - Au5
"Au5 is a 25 year old electronic music producer based out of Colorado. Known for breaking the boundaries of genre, he merges heavy, technical bass music with entrancing melodic soundscapes. Running the gamut of emotion within a single song.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Au5 (Austin Collins) has been a lifelong musician. Trained in classical piano since age 4 and studying bass guitar and music production since age 13, Austin is a well-rounded composer and music technologist unbounded by genre.
'If you’re looking for trendy music, turn away. If you’re looking to embark on a journey, come with me.'"
Au5's bio is concise yet impactful, introducing the artist and his background. Pointing out key details like his classical piano training and musical history. All while noting impressive facts that help his production stand out.
The unique terminology used also represents his branding. Ending on a quote adds an uncommon personal touch. Sharing an opinion in a way that invites the target audience to listen.
Example Artist Bio #2 - G-Rex
“Although the origins of G-REX can be dated back to 2015, 2018 was certainly a breakout year for Detroit native producer, Jake Sweeney. As he worked to perfect his brand of high energy trap and bass fused with sinister dubstep sound design, he honed in on a deep dark sound that has become a recognizable signature in his music and earned him the respect and support of leaders in the scene. In September 2018 he released one of the biggest bass music tracks of the year, “Babatunde,” as a collaboration with friend and fellow bass music phenom, PEEKABOO, on Liquid Stranger’s record label, WAKAAN. He then followed up with his debut four track RIFT EP, also on WAKAAN, as well a recent collaboration with Ghastly.
2019 sees G-REX’s first major tour appearance as support on Liquid Stranger’s 36 date INFINITY TOUR January through March, the release of his second EP, and a handful of singles including official remixes and collaborations with major players in the bass music scene.
While many continue to regurgitate the same stale sounds, G-REX is here to usher in a new era of cold-blooded bass.”
G-REX's bio emphasizes his breakout year and humanizes the text by adding his real name. It defines his musical style, and mentions relevant milestones. His bio also references current projects and recent tour dates from the time. Showing his growing presence in the bass music scene. The bio wraps up by stating the goal that drives his production.
Example Artist Bio #3 - OAKK
“Musically speaking, OAKK’s catalog is melodically beautiful and highly energetic — incorporating his respect for the cultures and communities that have influenced the musical landscape of the present. With a strong commitment and respect for a multitude of genres, OAKK is able to effortlessly blend and weave between different soundscapes, creating a sound of his own. With a consistent output of releases, OAKK’s primary focus is to always create projects that vary from previous ones, while maintaining trademark qualities to his productions.”
This artist bio does a great job of focusing on the music & atmosphere. Highlighting his respect for different cultures and the soundscape he has built. OAKK's bio also mentions his consistency in releasing, which is a notable benefit. Then it ends in a way that leaves the future open as the project evolves.
How to Write a High-Quality EPK Bio
The artist bio is the most valuable element in any Electronic Press Kit. It allows the writer to shape the narrative for the reader, which is a powerful marketing tool. For an in-depth guide, check out our 6 step strategy for writing a DJ bio.
To summarize, here are the core guidelines:
Start by gathering details about your music career, influences, and branding. Then compile examples from professional DJs in the same niche. This will help outline the content and tone of your artist bio.
For a standard EPK Bio, the best strategy is to use one line per topic. Introduce yourself in the beginning of the bio, then summarize your musical journey. Next, describe the soundscape you provide, or highlight other USPs. Then note any relevant achievements, events, or collaborations. Finalize the excerpt by talking about the future. This could include upcoming performances, releases, goals, and more.
This format allows the artist to communicate all essential information. While leaving room to add creative or narrative choices.
Related Posts
