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Being a music journalist isn't as glamorous as it seems. The job is to observe, report, and analyze music; to help create, foster, and spread the buzz about bands; and to inform the readership, who writers ultimately serve. But that's not always obvious, and is often something that writers wish bands knew. If you're in a band and think you already know how music journalism works, chances are you don't.
Since I've been published in magazines for two decades and now do PR, these are certain things I keep coming across that I've had to explain to bands more than once. Here are four things that music journalists wish bands knew.
1. Sometimes we have other and/or full-time jobs
Writers love writing about music and supporting bands. That's why we do what we do, since it's not always super lucrative work and is often done on a freelance basis. So, no, it isn't always a full-time job and therefore, writers might not always listen to your music the exact same minute they get it. Don't punish writers with too many follow-up emails.
2. We aren't out to get you when we write a negative review
Sorry, but writers aren't in the business of having personal vendettas, and we're not out to get anyone just because we might pen a negative review. A lot of things factor into a review, from your history, to your sound, to your peers, to the actual songs we're listening to. But if there are things we don't like, including the whole thing, it's not because there's some personal beef, so don't look for a reason to further explain why you may have gotten skewered. Also be aware that some writers might choose not to cover something they don't like as opposed to ripping it apart. So there's that.
[How to Make a Bad Review Work for You]
3. We know some of you wonder where we get off writing about music when we aren't musicians
The music writer's job is to give the reader and music fans insight into the music based on their pedigrees and expertise. Journalists are pretty much exposed to all new music, so we have lots of irons in the fire and lots of yardsticks by which to measure.
4. We aren't obligated to write anything
Music writers are not obligated to like or review anything just because it lands on their desk, but since it's their job, they will check it out. Yes, personal taste factors into things, because how can it not? But any ethical music writer will able to separate church and state keeping the reader top of mind at all times.
Get tips on working with music journalists:
- 6 Ways to Annoy a Music Journalist
- 5 Pro Tips for Dealing With a Bad Music Journalist
- 5 Types of Pitch Emails All Music Journalists Hate Getting From Indie Bands
- 4 Reasons You're Not Hearing Back From the Press (And What to Do About It)
- 9 Things You Might Not Know About Music Journalists
Amy Sciarretto has 20 years of print and online bylines, from Kerrang to Spin.com to Revolver to Bustle, covering music, beauty, and fashion. After 12 years doing radio and publicity at Roadrunner Records, she now fronts Atom Splitter PR, her own boutique PR firm, which has over 30 clients. She also is active in animal charity and rescue.
