Let’s talk about something that might sound super “industry”, but is actually one of the most empowering tools you can create for yourself as a singer… The Electronic Press Kit (EPK). Now, if you just blinked and thought, Wait…what’s that again? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
What is an EPK?
An EPK (Electronic Press Kit) is your professional calling card. Think of it as your music resume, visual brand, highlight reel, and artist pitch all wrapped up in one easy-to-share package. It’s what busy industry folks (bookers, blogs, venues, festivals, managers) look at to quickly get a sense of who you are, what you sound like, and why they should be paying attention to you.
Whether you’re just getting started or have an EPK that needs a glow-up, let’s walk through the must-haves for creating one that opens doors…
1. Your Artist Photos: First Impressions Count
This isn’t about being “picture perfect”… it’s about visual storytelling.
Your clothing, setting, colours, even your posture… they all say something about your artistry. Are you gritty indie? Glossy R&B? Thoughtful folk? Electric pop? Show it with intentional photos!
TIP: Before you hire a pro photographer, play around with a Pinterest vision board. Try different styles and vibes until something clicks visually. Build your visual language before you spend $$.
2. The One Sheet: Tell Them Who You Are… Quickly
This is a single page that answers: Who are you, what’s your sound, and where are you going next? It includes… A few bio lines (where you’re from, your influences, a fun fact or two)
- A snapshot of your musical style and current buzz
- A quick glimpse into what’s coming up (recordings, tours, releases)
- Short, strong, and scroll-stopping. This part might take a few drafts. Bounce it off trusted eyes until it flows.
3. Curated Links: Show them your best music, video, and website
Pick your strongest 2–3 tracks. Maybe one acoustic, one produced. Add 1–2 performance or music videos. No need to overwhelm…remember, industry folks are busy. Make it easy for them to fall in love with you. Once they care, they can do the “deep dive” to check you out further.
4. Visual Design: Your Visuals Need to Reflect Your Brand
Fonts. Colours. Layout. These things speak volumes… even if just subconsciously. If your music is dreamy and soulful, your EPK shouldn’t look like a metal band’s site. You can get playful with design, but make sure it matches you.
TIP: Look at a dozen pro artist EPKs/websites and notice how you immediately get a vibe from their visuals. That’s your goal.
Pro Tip: Have Both Long + Short Bios Ready
Use the short version in your EPK, but keep a longer one on hand for press, websites, or booking sites. Always written in the third person.
Building the Perfect EPK is a Process
Creating your EPK might feel like a mountain at first… but trust me, once it’s built, it becomes your secret weapon. You’ll move through the industry with more confidence, more clarity, and more “yes” responses from the right people.
Yes, building the perfect EPK is a PROCESS, but this process teaches you so much about who you are as an artist. And that learning pays off everywhere in your career. So take your time. Make a few first drafts. Experiment. Let it evolve. And yes… You can absolutely bounce your sketches off me for feedback anytime. If you’re not ready to dive in just yet, that’s okay, too! Save this email and come back to it when you’re ready.
NEED HELP? We can look over your EPK together! Private coaching sessions offer the most effective way to address the vocal, performance, and career challenges you face as an artist… including creating your EPK!! We can meet in person at Pink Light Stage in Toronto or over Zoom from anywhere in the world.