10 Tips for Musicians on When to Hire a Publicist

Photo by Gabriel Gurrola on Unsplash

As a musician, knowing when to bring in professional help can be the key to reaching new heights in your career. Publicists are the behind-the-scenes powerhouses who can turn your hard work into headlines, your music into must-hears, and your milestones into moments. But when is the right time to make that call? If you’re thinking about any or all of these 10 tips, you’ll be ready.

1. You Have a Specific Project to Promote

Got a new single, album, or music video ready to drop? Maybe a tour is just around the corner? That’s the golden moment to hire a publicist. They’re experts at crafting a narrative and creating a buzz that keeps your project top-of-mind and top-of-playlists. Timing is everything, and a publicist ensures you hit the mark.

2. You’ve Established Your Brand and Sound

Your sound is unmistakable, your visuals are cohesive, and your brand screams you. Now it’s time for a publicist to amplify that identity and introduce it to the media on a silver platter. Think of them as the bridge between your artistry and the wider world of listeners who need to know you.

3. You Need Help Navigating Media

Media relations can feel like a maze. Who do you contact? What do you say? A publicist knows how to craft compelling pitches, approach the right journalists, and secure coverage that puts your music in the spotlight. They’re not just navigating the map; they’re drawing it.

4. You’re Struggling to Reach Beyond Your Network

You’ve tapped out your immediate circle, and the growth has stalled. A publicist has the connections and strategies to push your music into new territories, new markets, and onto bigger stages. They’ll get your sound where it needs to be—beyond your comfort zone.

5. You’re Ready to Invest in Your Career

Hiring a publicist isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in your future. If you’ve got a budget and are ready to put your money where your music is, a publicist will give you the professional edge to make waves. It’s about seeing your career as a long game and setting yourself up for success.

6. You Have a Defined Goal

What’s the dream? More media coverage? A viral playlist hit? A feature in your favorite magazine? A publicist thrives on clear, measurable objectives. Tell them what you want, and they’ll turn those goals into actionable plans and tangible results.

7. You Need a Fresh Perspective

Feeling stuck or uninspired about your image or approach? A publicist brings a fresh set of eyes, new ideas, and innovative strategies to take your career to the next level. Whether it’s rebranding or reimagining, they’ll help you see your potential in ways you never expected.

8. You’re Too Busy to Handle PR Yourself

Between gigs, recording sessions, and social media, you’re wearing a thousand hats—and PR feels like one too many. A publicist takes the weight off your shoulders, managing press inquiries, media outreach, and interviews so you can focus on what matters most: the music.

9. You Want Access to Larger Opportunities

Ever wonder how artists get that coveted feature in a major publication or land a slot at a top festival? It’s not just luck—it’s connections. Publicists have the relationships and industry clout to get you in front of the right people and open doors you didn’t know existed.

10. You’re Launching a Major Milestone

Big moments deserve big attention. Whether it’s your debut album, a groundbreaking collaboration, or an award nomination, a publicist knows how to capitalize on your milestones. They’ll make sure these career-defining moments don’t just pass—they shine.

Every artist has a story worth telling, and the right publicist knows how to tell it. Whether you’re just starting out or hitting your stride, hiring a publicist at the right time can transform your music career. Ready to take the leap? For all your publicity needs, feel free to email Eric@ThatEricAlper.com or call me at 647-971-3742. With 25+ years of experience and a deep passion for connecting artists to audiences, I’m here to help you make an impact.