The Radio Interview for Beginners

Many times I have heard artists ask for interviews. There is

nothing wrong with demanding an interview but it is more

important to know how to sell your brand during the interview

when you get it.

First of all most artists are invited for interviews because they

have a current hit song or have a story to tell which is trending

on social media. Your brand must make a noise first before you

demand an interview. If you do get an interview remember to

deliberately make a positive impression. Take over the interview,

remember it's your shot to push your brand. Have a prepared

script to follow. Thank the radio station and deejay for the

opportunity and tell them what you have to offer. For example; if

the interview is about a brand new video you have released,

launch in with details and shout outs about the team involved in

making it. Plug in names of other players in the industry

(communicate to the listening audience that you are part of the

fraternity of artists in the industry). E.g. I hope my new video will

be well received like "Jah Prayzah's Eriza video, that one was a

game changer, big up Jah, he is very professional." That

acknowledgement can create a bridge in the ears of the

audience between your music and what they already know. Be

humble, do not diss anyone live on air. This will just polarise you

from some listeners. Even if you have an ongoing beef announce

that it was just a misunderstanding and refocus the interview on

the matter at hand. Voice projection is very important. An

interview is not a date. It is not the time to use a soft and sexy

voice. Be bold and loud, this energy communicates positive vibes to the listener. I am healthy, energetic and exciting and

cannot be ignored. Sell, sell, sell your brand.

Last but not least share your contact details without being

prompted. That means before you get an interview decide which

contact details will be released to the public. Every artist must

have contact details. Do not isolate yourself. Be open to network

with other players in the industry. Imagine a big promoter is tuned

in and wants to book you for a festival and you are busy boldly

saying live on radio "I can't give out my phone number". Your

contact details are not necessarily your personal details. It can

be your friends number, brother, mother, father, cousin's

number. Whoever you agree with to play the role of agent on

your behalf. Someone to filter the business calls from the time

wasters. If resources permit, buy a separate sim card and

"mbudzi" phone for all artist calls and share that number instead.

Have a social media footprint and give out your handles. Promise

more hits and sign off.