Here’s a question for you… “What is an EPK (Electronic Press Kit)?”
Well, imagine your EPK as a backstage pass, it opens the door, sets the tone, and gives whoever’s holding it everything they need to know about your act without a single awkward stumble.
That’s what CD Baby’s latest article, “Music Industry EPK Checklist” by Ryan DiLello, delivers, a clear, no‑fluff guide to what an EPK actually needs.
The Core Message
Here’s what the article asks you to make sure your EPK includes:
- Music first: A link hub spotlighting your best tracks or your newest single. Optionally, provide high‑quality downloadable files for press use.
- Your story, briefly: An artist bio that covers the essentials, genre, hometown, band members or instruments, and an artist statement. A handy little “for fans of…” or “sounds like…” section gives listeners context fast.
- Photos that work hard: High‑res images (headshots, on stage, etc) in multiple formats (landscape, square, vertical) so media have options ready to go.
- Video that brings you to life: Embed or link to music videos, live footage, or promos, especially live, which gives venues a real sense of what it might be like to book you.
- Proof and momentum: Quotes from press, reviews, or awards that signal credibility and buzz.
- Shows that tell your story: Keep an updated list of past and upcoming gigs, complete with dates and venues.
- Contact made easy: Make sure managers, promoters, or journalists can reach you, include booking emails, your website, and social media links.
On the design side, the article pushes for something thoughtful and effortless to navigate. It should reflect your brand but stay clean, mobile-friendly, and scannable.
Bonus tip: test it by sending it to someone in the industry and ask what they think.
My Two Cents
What I love about this checklist is how it treats your EPK like a backstage crew, not the show itself, but everything that makes sure the spotlight lands just right. It’s not about adding more, it’s about trimming back to what’s useful, polished, and meaningful.
I’m picturing that old-school suitcase EPK, heavy documents, lost emails, media juggling and this article unwraps a better way: a lean, targeted room where everything is prioritized. It positions you as professional and thoughtful, without shouting it in your face.
This isn’t about flash, it’s about respect. Respect for people’s time, attention span, and the little window they have to hear you. And that matters, it shows you value being understood, not just seen.
The Essential EPK Components
| What to Include | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Music links (plus optional downloads) | Essential listening—easy access for press & pros |
| Clear, punchy bio | A snapshot of who you are—even in a busy inbox |
| Versatile, high-res photos | Gives visuals that fit media formats quickly |
| Embedded or linked videos | Front-row view of your energy and stage presence |
| Press quotes or awards | Credibility in a glance—social proof matters |
| Show history and upcoming dates | Shows that you’re active and in-demand |
| Contact info and links | Makes connection friction-free for industry people |
| Clean, mobile-friendly layout | Looks good, reads easily, and is professional |
Want to take the next step?
- Sketch out your EPK using this framework, treat it like a neat toolbox, not a pile of clutter.
- Update what you’ve sent in the past, swap in better photos, change the tone of your bio, make newer music front and center.
- Maybe test different layouts, web page vs PDF vs landing page and see what feels easiest to update and best reflects who you are.
Ready to Elevate Your EPK?
Dive into the full article “Music Industry EPK Checklist” by Ryan DiLello on CD Baby and walk away with a press kit that feels intentional, not accidental. Whether you’re reaching out to a blogger, festival, or a cool venue, you’ll have something sharp to hand over.
Your story deserves to be shared and the right EPK is how it gets heard.
