WHY THE MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS ARE IMPORTANT IN AN ARTISTE'S CAREER

By Michael Abimboye.

Let me start by introducing who a publicist is. A publicist is a communications professional who handles public/media relations on behalf of an artiste. Some of the tasks he performs include arranging and supervising interviews, releasing statements to the media, overseeing the marketing and communications material meant for the public on the client’s behalf. A publicist also ensures that the overall image of his client (artiste) is maintained at all times. He is also your ‘BRAND MANAGER’.

Upcoming artiste often asks, ‘why do I need media/public relations?’ well, they are several reasons why an artiste needs media/public relations; however, I shall be addressing the ones that is important to an upcoming artiste.

*Media/public relations increases credibility: When people read a ‘positive’ story about you (an upcoming act) in newspapers/ online or see you speak on T.V; they are more likely to have a favorable opinion about your music and will be willing to either download your music or buy your album (as the case may be).

*Media/public relations attract quality prospects: I shall explain this carefully. One, as an upcoming artiste, because of the credibility the media (print, broadcast and online) has given you; it would be easier to get a management deal (that is if you are unsigned). Two, because of the credibility given to you by the media, which is in form of reviews and reportage, event organizers and manager of big companies are aware of you as an artiste. (NOTE: These people are not too familiar with online media, they more of traditional media people- newspapers, radio and television). Three, just because you appear on the pages of newspapers or you appear on T.V, that your rich father/uncle/aunty, who sees you as unserious might decided to invest in your career.(e don happen before, e fit happen to you).

*Media/public relations makes you an industry player: The mere fact that you are reported regularly (positive news) by important media houses makes you look bigger than you are.

*Media/public Relations helps you avoid price competition: If people see you / hear your songs frequently in newspaper/ on radio and T.V, they will believe you are worth the price you charge. (Davido is an example). 

Media/ public relations is also essential because it is considered the ‘BEST WAY TO LAUNCH A BRAND’. This is because when something is new, the media often will report it because of its news value.

The bottom line is, public/media relations and other marketing tools versus TALENT makes you (artiste) a ‘SUPPER STAR’. (To be continued).

Michael Abimboye is a music/ entertainment publicist and could be reached via mmakesense@yahoo.com or on twitter @mmakesense.