No big label budget? No problem.

You can still promo smart with organic tactics like gigs, collabs, and playlists to grow your reach without breaking the bank. Focus on high-impact, low-effort moves that leverage your existing network and creativity.

Key hacks: Submit to user-curated Spotify playlists, cross-promo with local bands at shows, or build street teams for grassroots flyer drops.

Tips for budget-friendly promo:

• Playlists: Use free tools like SubmitHub (under $1 per pitch) to reach curators; target niche lists with 1k-10k followers for better odds.
• Local radio and podcasts: Email demos with a short pitch - many indie stations play unsigned acts; follow up personally.
• Guerrilla tactics: Surprise street performances filmed for socials, play in your parents garage and make a video, or partner with cafes for acoustic sets in exchange for promo.
• Collabs and referrals: Swap shoutouts with similar bands; offer fans free stickers for sharing your gig poster online. Build up together, helping each other grow. The music scene is abundant there is room for everyone.
• Pitfalls: Track everything! Don't spam submissions without researching, or you'll get blacklisted. Start local to build proof before going wide.

IDLES grew their punk scene cred via raw, word-of-mouth gigs and free online shares, turning Bristol basements into sold-out tours without major ad spend.

Add promo successes (like playlist placements) to your EPK for credibility. Check my What is an EPK post.

Sign up for a free membership to access all our free assets, like the EPK/Press Kit Creator and make your digital empire rock.

Try one hack and report the results below in the comments. We believe in you!