What Do You Need to Know Before Working with a Publicist as an Artist?
If you’ve ever thought, “I just need a publicist, and everything will take off,” you’re not alone. A lot of artists reach that point where they feel stuck, unseen, or ready for the next level… and PR feels like the missing piece.
Sure, working with a publicist can be powerful… when you’re truly ready for it.
Otherwise, you’re just throwing money into the void and hoping something sticks.
This is where most artists get frustrated. They blame the publicist when things don’t land… or assume the publicist is the one responsible for their success when things do. But the reality is… this relationship only works when you understand your role just as clearly as they understand theirs.
So let’s ground you in what actually matters…
Here are my 5 keys to working with a publicist to get real results.
1. Come in With Momentum Already Moving
Publicists don’t create momentum from scratch… they amplify what’s already there.
If you walk in with nothing fully formed yet… no clear release, no identity, no audience energy… you’re asking them to build the engine and drive the car.
That’s not their job.
You’ll get the best results when you already have:
- A strong single, EP, album, or tour-ready
- A clear and communicable artist identity
- Some level of audience traction… even a small but engaged fan base
If you’re still figuring yourself out… that’s okay. Truly. No shame in that.
But that means your next step isn’t PR yet… It’s artist development.
Use the idea of hiring a publicist as motivation to get clear and build momentum first. That’s how you turn PR into a multiplier instead of a gamble.
2. Know Your Story First
This is the big one… and honestly, where most artists struggle.
A publicist can help shape your narrative… but they cannot invent it for you.
And more importantly… You don’t want them to.
Because your story is your power. It’s what makes people care.
Ask yourself:
- What do I stand for as an artist and as a person?
- What makes my voice and perspective different?
- Why should someone listen to me instead of someone else?
If you don’t have clear answers yet… the media won’t either.
And if the media doesn’t understand you, they won’t cover you.
This is where real transformation happens for artists. When you stop trying to be “good enough”… and start getting clear on who you actually are.
3. Treat It Like a Collaboration… Not a Handoff
One of the biggest misconceptions is this…
“I hired a publicist… so now I’m done.”
Absolutely not.
That mindset alone can quietly sabotage your results.
The artists who get the most from PR are the ones who stay involved and energized throughout the process.
That looks like:
- Keeping your social media active and aligned with your story
- Providing content, updates, and ideas
- Responding quickly to opportunities
- Showing up with excitement… not fear
When a publicist feels that energy, they lean in harder. When they can work WITH you instead of for you, they can advocate stronger and go the extra mile.
It needs to feel like a shared mission… not a transaction.
4. Timing Is Everything
This is where a lot of money gets wasted… or opportunities get missed.
Too early, and there’s nothing strong enough to promote.
Too late, and the moment has already passed.
The sweet spot usually looks like:
- 4 to 8 weeks before a release
- When you have a rollout plan… not just a drop
- When your story is already starting to show up on your socials
PR works best when it’s part of a larger strategy.
Think of it as fuel on a fire… not the spark itself.
5. Make Sure Your Foundation Is Strong
Before you invest in PR… pause and ask yourself some real questions. Because attention without preparation can actually hurt more than help.
Are you ready to capitalize if things do take off?
Check your foundation:
- Is your music truly ready for the market?
- Do your visuals match your sound and identity?
- Is your social presence consistent and engaging?
- Do you have a plan for what happens if people start paying attention?
PR brings visibility, but it’s your foundation that converts that visibility into growth.
Final Thoughts… This Is About Ownership
Working with a publicist isn’t about handing over control…
It’s about stepping into a higher level of responsibility as an artist.
When you:
- Know your story
- Build your momentum
- Show up as a collaborator
- Time things strategically
- Strengthen your foundation
…you stop hoping PR will “save” your career. Instead, you will start using it as a powerful tool to accelerate something that’s already working.
Ready to Go Deeper?
Join This Special Career Mastery Session
If you’re even thinking about working with a publicist… this is something you don’t want to miss.
I’m hosting a special Career Mastery Session called:
Inside the Music PR Machine
Featuring one of the most respected publicists in the country… Eric Alper.
DATE: Tuesday, April 7
TIME: 7 PM (Zoom)
COST: $80
This is your chance to:
- Ask real questions about PR
- Understand how campaigns actually work
- Learn what makes artists stand out to media
- Avoid costly mistakes before you make them
If you want clarity… strategy… and a real edge in your career…
E-transfer $80 to micahbarnes@sympatico.ca to receive the private Zoom link.
Bring your questions. Bring your vision.
Let’s get you moving forward… with confidence.