When it comes to submitting your music on SubmitHub (and similar platforms), a well-crafted quick pitch seems like a little detail, but it can actually can change a lot. So, how to write an effective quick pitch? Let's explore some cool tips, tactics, approaches, and also highlight a few things to avoid. A good, personalized quick pitch can help tip the scales when your song is a “maybe” for the curator 👍
The general rule is: your chances will be much higher if the submission makes sense for the outlet and their curation. So let's start with a formula you simply can't go wrong with:
Hey [outlet name – optional], my song [song name – optional] is [unique because of this]. I believe it would fit your [playlist name/blog style/YouTube channel] (as it sounds similar to [artist(s)/song(s) in there – optional]). Thank you!
(🤫 Just edit it to your liking)
Apart from this (yes, it works!), check more approaches you can take to make a killer quick pitch:
A similar but less template-ish approach would be familiarizing yourself with the curator you're submitting to. A good start is to look at the artists and songs they have previously supported. Identifying a few of their favorites will help you tailor your pitch.
I've been a fan of your YouTube for years and admire you to have such good taste. When I released my song "By the River," I instantly thought of your channel because of it Bon Iver-esque sound.
Pro tip: our "Similar Artists" filter will show you whether a curator has a history of featuring the artists you're searching by, which makes it easy to reference the favorite artists you have in common.
A quick pitch can be just that – quick. Aim for a concise and engaging message that captures attention within the first few words. You can start with a compelling hook or an intriguing description of your music without lengthy introductions or unnecessary details. Get to the point and make it interesting enough for the curator to want to listen to your track.
Vacation mode, instantly! Sometimes, all you need is a little rest, sun, and sea breeze!
In the more and more crowded music submission environment, highlighting what sets you apart is always really important. Identify your best moments and make them shine in your pitch. It can be your distinctive sound, impressive editorial placement(s), or a fresh approach to your genre... Whatever it is, emphasize the standing out aspects to grab the curator's attention. Show them why they should give your music a chance; why it is high quality or appealing to their audience.
Produced by John Smith (Rihanna), this song got on New Music Friday and three other pop-oriented editorials within a week of its release.
...or
Whoosh is a unique EDM song using a MANDOLIN as one of the main instruments.
Curators receive numerous submissions daily, so personalizing your pitch can make a significant impact, making them shift their attention to you. Take the time to address the curator by name and mention something specific about their previous work that resonated with you (or maybe a previous share of your music). This shows that you've done your research and established a connection, making your pitch more memorable.
Hi, Peter, thank you for sharing my In the Clouds a few months back. This one has a very similar vibe, and so I thought it could be a great fit for your Modern Folk playlist as well.
Maintaining a professional and polite tone (as opposed to pushy or begging language) reflects positively on you as an artist. Use proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling (or have them checked with Grammarly). Expressing gratitude for the curator's time and consideration can go a long way.
Ciao, Giovanni, and thank you for the time to consider my song. I would be honored to be featured on your Fitness Hero playlist & would happily share a possible placement on all my socials (15k combined following).
Including all the necessary information and links that will assist the curator in evaluating your music in the About section, and telling the curator about it in the quick pitch, may work especially well with bloggers. Provide a direct link to the track you're submitting, and include links to your website, social media profiles, SoundCloud and Bandcamp (usually required by bloggers that are on Hypemachine), and any relevant press or reviews. Make it easy for the curator to access more information about you and your music – and tell them that you did.
Ola, María. Thank you for the time to feedback and possibly find a place for my song. I attached a press release, EPK, free-to-use pictures, lyrics, and all of the links you may possibly need in my About.
If there is nothing that you would say based on the tips so far, be sure to highlight the strongest moments of your tune. Avoid a generic phrase like “Be sure to check the bridge!” Try a bit more and explain why that moment shines. It can make all the difference.
The bridge at 2:01 is incredibly ethereal thanks to the 16 layers of lead vocals.
Add a personal touch to your quick pitch, changing the perception of your side from "an artist" or "a publicist" to "just a person." Instead of adopting a detached and purely descriptive approach to your music and its message, consider a genuine and honest, "human" pitch. Adding your real name to the quick pitch ("Thanks, John" instead of "Thanks, The CranJerries") can infuse it with a human touch, showcasing authenticity and allowing you to come across as a real person.
I just released my first original song & would be proud to be part of your playlist. It’s about losing a parent to an illness which I had to go through last year. The production work was hard but I think we nailed it. Thank you, John.
While knowing what to do is essential, it's equally important to be aware of what not to do. Here are a few things to avoid when writing your quick pitch:
Formulating a persuasive quick pitch for your music submissions can change the outcome with a song that was a half yes-half no, especially. It can make the curator intrigued (or angry) even before starting to listen, and can help your approval rate outcome if done well. Understand the platform, personalize your pitch, and highlight the best about the song – and you just might capture the attention of curators more, increasing your chances of success. Just be polite, on-point, and engaging in your writing.